Families Worldwide Brochure 2014-15

Page 1

FAMILIES WORLDWIDE

experience your world together

family adventures | small groups or build your own trip


FAMILIES WORLDWIDE

Life’s a puzzle!

y can sometimes feel like keeping everyone in the family happ Balancing work life, home life and pe from the melee and the esca an offer can ay holid e dwid Worl a never-ending puzzle. A Families our own. and landscapes very different from opportunity to discover cultures stories, experiences, memories t sharing a family adventure; the There’s something wonderful abou kids throughout their lives and my with lled trave I’ve e. lifetim a last and friendships made can often ntures with Dad! Every age adve on e com to keen still all they are ories scattered through even at the ages of 21, 19 and 17 mem e thes see ll you’ and and special, has brought with it something new photographs in this brochure. d to making sure that you and small outstanding team committe At Families Worldwide we have a knowledge and expertise, gained our With ther. toge e l experienc your family enjoy an incredible trave es together and provide the piec the put help adventures, we can love. We are proud of being over 10 years of operating family will ly fami ay that all members of your omers with the unique support you need to create a holid cust our the ability to be flexible and treat a small company, which gives us – or anything in between – we’ll 22 or 12 2, are kids your ther Whe and personal service they deserve. holiday. make sure you have an amazing touch if you or your children ntures and don’t hesitate to get in Please enjoy reading about our adve of inspiration. bit a need just you if even or trip, have questions or ideas for your

FUN!

Happy travels.

Mark Wright Founder

as we head off ah (19 now and studying Spanish) PS. Join me and my daughter Hann through Colombia’. rney ‘Jou y, Recc off onea for to South America in August 2014 for details. Please call us or visit our website

DISCOVERY I trust this company to come up with the ‘‘right combination of excitement, safety,

‘‘

fun, comfort and rest.

ZOE DUNFORD – ATLAS MULE TRAIN, MOROCCO 2013


ACTIVITY

NATURE

10

Europe

26

Morocco

32

Africa

40

Middle East

48

Asia

56

South East Asia

66

Americas

Destinations

LEARNING

Independent & proud of it! We’re not owned by a big corporate or a PLC and we are proud of our independent ownership. You’ll find we’re flexible, friendly and efficient, and we’ll provide you with a genuinely personal service.

Book with confidence Everyone wants peace of mind when booking a holiday. We are fully bonded with ABTA and the government-run CAA, so whatever happens, your money is safe when you book with us.

Bali 62–63 Borneo 64 Botswana NEW 34 Brazil 74 Cambodia 61 Colombia NEW 66 Costa Rica 68–71 Croatia 11–12 Cuba NEW 67 Ecuador & Galapagos 75 Egypt 44–47 Finland 24 France NEW 18 India 49–51 Italy 14–15 Jordan 42–43 Kenya 37 & 39 Malaysia 65 Malta (Gozo) 17 Morocco 26–31 Namibia 35 Nepal 54–55 Oman NEW 41 Peru 72–73 Sicily 16 Spain 19–23 Sri Lanka 52–53 Tanzania & Zanzibar 36 & 38 Thailand 58 & 60 Turkey 13 Vietnam 58–59 & 61


. . . d a e h a n a l P

for when and where to go ow bel ers nn Pla ay lid Ho ol ho See the Sc s suddenly The need to plan ahead for holiday children start r you n whe s comes into sharp focu dates you only the that out find school and you yone ever as can travel overseas are the same minute last the l else’s. Many people leave it unti not are ts fligh that and are surprised to find go up the closer available and that prices usually you get to departure. book well We strongly recommend that you date (especially re artu dep d nde inte r you of ahead travel on the can you for Christmas) to make sure t. wan you e pric the holiday you want at

Get up close and pe rsonal with wildlife

Easter Holidays

Most of the UK’s schools break up on Fri 4th Apr 2014. The following year it’s expected to be Fri 3rd Apr 2015.

COUNTRY

TRIP NAME

Bali

Paradise Island

63

Costa Rica

Rainforest & Volcanoes

68

Costa Rica

Active Costa Rica

69

Cuba

Cuba Libre!

67

Egypt

Feluccas and Pyramids

44

Egypt

Nile Cruise

45

Finland

Ice Pop

24

India

Taj & Tigers

49

India

Backwaters of Kerala

50

Most UK schools break up on Friday 23rd May 2014. The following year it’s expected to be Fri 22nd May 2015.

Italy

Vesuvius & Pompeii

15

COUNTRY

TRIP NAME

Italy

Bella Italia!

14

Croatia

Active Dalmatia

11

Jordan

Crusaders & Camels

43

Croatia

Croatia River Adventure

12

Malta

Active Gozo

17

Egypt

Feluccas & Pyramids

44

Morocco

High Atlas Adventure

28

Egypt

Nile Cruise

45

PAGE

Morocco

Atlas Mule Train

29

Italy

Vesuvius & Pompeii

15

onders of Explore the w orld the ancient w

February Half Term Most UK schools break up on Friday 14th February 2014. The following year it’s expected to be Fri 13th Feb 2015.

Get active and involved

May Half Term PAGE

COUNTRY

TRIP NAME

Egypt

Feluccas and Pyramids

44

Morocco

Desert & Mountains

31

Italy

Bella Italia!

14

Egypt

Nile Cruise

45

Namibia

Cheetahs & Dunes

35

Jordan

Crusaders & Camels

43

Finland

Ice Pop

24

Nepal

Himalayan Adventure

55

Malta

Active Gozo

17

India

Taj and Tigers

49

Oman

Dolphins & Dunes

41

Morocco

High Atlas Adventure

28

India

Backwaters of Kerala

50

Peru

Land of the Incas

73

Morocco

Atlas Mule Train

29

Jordan

Crusaders & Camels

43

Sicily

Discover Sicily

16

Morocco

Kasbahs & Camels

30

Kenya

Rift Valley Explorer

37

Spain

Rural Andalucia

20

Sicily

Discover Sicily

16

Morocco

Kasbahs and Camels

30

Spain

Learn the Lingo TT 19

Spain

Rural Andalucia

20

Oman

Dolphins & Dunes

41

Sri Lanka

Ceylon Discovery

53

Spain

Active Catalonia

21

Spain

Rural Andalucia

20

Thailand

Rainforest & Islands

57

Spain

Learn the Lingo (Beginners) 19

Spain

Winter in the Spanish Pyrenees 23

Thailand/Vietnam Journey through Indochina 58

Spain

In the Heart of the Pyrenees 22

Thailand

Rainforest & Islands

Vietnam

Turkey

Active Turkey

57

Hanoi to Saigon

TT = TEEN TRIP (See page 8 for more details)

4

PAGE

59

13


Meet the locals and learn about their liv es Have fun on the beach

Summer Holidays

Most UK schools break up on Wed 23rd Jul 2014 (most private schools break up on Fri 4th Jul 2014). Most UK schools go back on Wed 3rd Sep 2014. The following year most schools are expected to break up on Wed 22nd Jul 2015.

COUNTRY

TRIP NAME

Bali

Paradise Island

PAGE

Botswana

Camping Adventure TT 34

Costa Rica

Rainforest & Volcanoes

Costa Rica

Active Costa Rica TD 69

Croatia

Active Dalmatia

63

Families with teenagers

‘Teen Trips’ – more adventurous holidays catering to families with older children.

‘Teen Departures’ – specific departures on classic itineraries for families with teenagers.

68

Make new friends!

11

Croatia

Croatia River Adventure TD 12

Cuba

Cuba Libre!

67

Egypt

Feluccas & Pyramids

44

Egypt

Nile Cruise

45

France

Active Pyrenees

18

Most UK schools break up on Fri 24th Oct 2014. The following year it’s expected to be Fri 23rd Oct 2015.

India

Backwaters of Kerala

50

COUNTRY

TRIP NAME

Italy

Vesuvius & Pompeii

15

Egypt

Feluccas & Pyramids

44

Most UK schools break up on Fri 19th Dec 2014, returning back to school on Mon 5th Jan 2015. The following year most schools are expected to break up on Fri 18th Dec 2015.

Italy

Bella Italia!

14

Egypt

Nile Cruise

45

COUNTRY

TRIP NAME

Jordan

Crusaders & Camels

43

India

Taj & Tigers

49

Bali

Paradise Island

63

Kenya

Rift Valley Explorer

37

India

Backwaters of Kerala

50

Costa Rica

Rainforest & Volcanoes

68

Malta

Active Gozo

17

Italy

Vesuvius & Pompeii

15

Costa Rica

Active Costa Rica

69

Morocco

High Atlas Adventure

28

Italy

Bella Italia!

14

Egypt

Feluccas & Pyramids

44

Morocco

Atlas Mule Train

29

Jordan

Crusaders & Camels

43

Egypt

Nile Cruise

45

Morocco

Kasbahs & Camels

30

Kenya

Rift Valley Explorer

37

Finland

Ice Pop

24

Namibia

Cheetahs & Dunes

35

Malta

Active Gozo

17

India

Taj & Tigers

49

Peru

Land of the Incas

73

Morocco

High Atlas Adventure

28

India

Backwaters of Kerala

50

Sicily

Discover Sicily

16

Morocco

Atlas Mule Train

29

Jordan

Crusaders & Camels

43

Spain

Rural Andalucia

20

Morocco

Kasbahs & Camels

30

Kenya

Rift Valley Explorer

37

Spain

Active Catalonia TT 21

Nepal

Himalayan Adventure

55

Morocco

Kasbahs & Camels

30

Spain

Learn the Lingo (Beginners) 19

Oman

Dolphins & Dunes

41

Morocco

Desert & Mountains

31

Spain

In the Heart of the Pyrenees 22

Sicily

Discover Sicily

16

Namibia

Cheetahs & Dunes

35

Sri Lanka

Ceylon Discovery

53

Spain

Rural Andalucia

20

Nepal

Himalayan Adventure

55

Tanzania

Swahili Coast & Safari TD 36

Spain

Learn the Lingo TT 19

Oman

Dolphins & Dunes

41

Thailand

Rainforest & Islands

57

Tanzania

Swahili Coast & Safari

36

Peru

Land of the Incas

73

Thailand/Vietnam Journey through Indochina 58

Thailand

Rainforest & Islands

57

Spain

Winter in the Spanish Pyrenees 23

Turkey

Active Turkey

13

Turkey

Active Turkey

13

Sri Lanka

Ceylon Discovery

53

Vietnam

Hanoi to Saigon

59

Vietnam

Hanoi to Saigon

59

Thailand

Rainforest & Islands

57

TT = TEEN TRIP TD = TEEN DEPARTURE

(See page 8 for more details)

October Half Term

PAGE

Christmas Holidays

PAGE

TT = TEEN TRIP (See page 8 for more details)

5


Why travel with us? You’ll make new friends! As fellow parents, we realise that you’ll probably want there to be a potential friend of the same age as your children on the trip. The reality on trips, however, is that once they’re on holiday and travelling together, children of all ages mix really well. It’s not like being at school where there’s rivalry between year groups with the upper years looking down on younger ones. On a Families Worldwide trip, we find time and time again that children of all ages tend to club together and gel as one ‘team’ very early on in the holiday. And we often find that older children look out for the younger ones and take them under their wing. On each of the group trip pages we show an approximate Age Guideline, but please bear in mind that we can be flexible, so do ask if your child’s age is not within the suggested range.

Top Trip

day to If you can’t decide which holi Trips’. choose, look out for our ‘Top rates ten of our This handy selection incorpo world with most popular trips around the of fun. varied itineraries that are lots

Everything planned for you You can relax while we take care of everything for you. From the first phone call or email enquiry you make to us, we’ll look after your needs. We’ll find out what you and your children want from your holiday and then arrange everything: we’ll suggest different holiday options and organise your flights, transport, meals and accommodation. And we provide well-planned itineraries, leaders and guides to look after you along the way, plus lots of extras which add to the experience (and do tell us about any birthdays or other special occasions!). Leave it to us to do the hard work of planning a holiday that’s just right for you and your family.

6

Family-friendly leaders & guides You and your family will love the leaders and guides we work with – they help to make every holiday a success. They work tirelessly behind the scenes arranging transport, accommodation and any other logistical requirements during the trip, as well as providing practical information about the country, its culture, background and food.

Happy, ‘engaged’ children... We design each trip to provide interests and activities that will engage your children in finding out about other ways of life, experiencing different cultures and often discovering a fascinating history that’s a million miles away from classroom learning!

On many trips we employ local leaders where we feel this adds to the knowledge, insights and opportunities that only locals can provide. Many clients provide really positive feedback about how well they have been looked after. As one client put it, “It’s like having your own guardian angel”.


Personal service Although we have a great website where you can research and book online, if you prefer, our small friendly team of consultants is here to guide and help you from your first call or email right up until after you return home. In nearly all cases (holidays permitting) you will be dealt with by the same consultant at all times, whereas larger ‘corporates’ may pass you from one consultant to another. You’ll be given a direct dial number and a personal email address to ensure regular contact.

Read or write a review Book with confidence You can book your holiday with confidence and peace of mind. Families Worldwide is fully licensed and your funds are protected though our ATOL licence, authorised by the government-run Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Every holiday we sell that includes a flight element is protected under this licence (number 10186).

Whatever happens, your money is safe when you book a holiday through Families Worldwide.

We are also members of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA). Through this association, Families Worldwide has provided a bond to meet the requirements of the Package Travel Regulations. Whether you book ‘With Flights’ or ‘Land Only’ arrangements, your money will be protected. Please note that if you book directly with an airline, or directly with an overseas operator or accommodation provider, your money may not be protected in the event of their failure. Packages booked outside the UK are only protected when booked/purchased directly with Families Worldwide.

We invite all our customers to post reviews about their holiday experience. Look out for the ‘Reviews’ tab on the individual trip pages of our website.

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 we include much more than most people expect. Included in our price are:

3 Personal service from a real person before and after you travel 3 Flights and flight protection (if you book our ‘With Flights’ package) 3 Airport transfers (where stated) 3 Accommodation throughout 3 Expert leaders and guides 3 Advice, local knowledge and guidance before and during travel 3 Transport arrangements (of many shapes and sizes) 3 Other families to have fun with (on group trips) 3 A carefully planned family-friendly itinerary 3 Entrance fees to sites (where included) 3 A local contact in case you need help 3 24-hour emergency line, 365 days of the year 3 Loyalty discount when you book your next trip

Altogether GREAT value!

7


The world’s your oyster Trips designed for you... Whether you travel on a small group trip with between three and six families, or on your own bespoke itinerary, our holidays are designed to really involve you and your children with local culture, to try new experiences and to explore the natural world.

ily However big or small, your fam ique is unique. Every country is un great too, which is why we offer a ys. deal of flexibility in our holida

Travel with your extended family Extended family departures, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc, are becoming increasingly popular. A private trip can be tailored to meet your family’s exact requirements, departing at a time that suits all, to a destination that everyone has dreamed of visiting – ideal for marking that special occasion or celebration. Think milestone birthdays, important anniversaries or just that ‘trip of a lifetime’!

Father & son | Mother & daughter Working parents often miss out on time with their children as they grow up. In particular, we’ve noticed that fathers feel the need to spend some quality time with their children when they’re in their teens. Sociologists and anthropologists have noticed that today, unlike in early civilisations and tribal cultures, most rites of passage, in which father and son or mother and daughter come together in some kind of initiation, have now disappeared from western culture.

Single parent families Many single parents book with us because it makes life much easier when all the hassle of organising overseas travel is taken care of. And it’s great fun travelling in a group with other parents and children.

8

Travelling with teenagers

These experiences, or ‘journeys’, help youngsters into adulthood and teach them to face and resolve wounds from the past, as well as inspiring, equipping and empowering them to lead successful lives as adults.

Opting to go on a group holiday with other families and their teenage children ensures that they will mix well with like-minded peers and engage with each other as equals, easily making new friends along the way. Socialising through activities provides a perfect cure for any teenage gripes, improves their selfconfidence, and helps them feel more independent.

We highly recommend a ‘father and son’ or ‘mother and daughter’ holiday – you’ll be glad to get them away from the TV screen and the computer, and it’s likely that you’ll both return with a new-found respect and admiration of each other, thanks to the bonds that are inevitably formed from shared experiences.


Guaranteed departures Our groups are never too large and don’t rely on lots of bookings, so we’re generally able to guarantee departures as soon as you book. Unlike many other operators, we generally operate on a maximum number basis, rather than a minimum. So, unless minimum numbers are specified, once you’ve booked and paid your deposit, your trip is usually guaranteed to run!

Where do we stay? Build your own trip Families Worldwide is unique. As well as planning fixed itinerary departures for groups (where you would join a pre-planned tour to travel with other like-minded families), we can also work with you to plan just about any kind of holiday you like. With the help of an experienced family travel expert you’ll be able to ‘build your own trip’ tailored to the specific needs of your family.

Accommodation is carefully chosen when planning our tours. We aim for good quality, small and friendly, family run hotels rather than impersonal, global hotels. Most rooms have en-suite and air conditioning as standard and we try to accommodate families in triple and quad rooms where available. Sometimes we stay in more basic accommodation when we want to get off the beaten track. Whether sleeping under the stars Bedouin-style in Jordan or camping in the wilds of Africa, these authentic and more unusual night stops enhance the overall holiday experience.

This gives you ultimate flexibility on departure dates, flights, transfers, class and type of accommodation, itinerary, transport, leaders and guides, meal plan, activities, etc.

Toddlers come too Many parents claim ‘toddlerdom’ to be the most demanding time to travel with children. However, children in this age category are still compact and highly portable, which means you could contemplate something really quite adventurous, such as a mule-supported trek in Morocco or even the Himalayas – carrying your child or hiring a porter.

Swimming pools are a necessity for many families, which is why we specify in our itineraries when pools are available. Look out for the symbol alongside the relevant night stops.

9


Europe

‘‘

11 Active Dalmatia Croatia River Adventure NEW 12 Active Turkey

ITALY Bella Italia! Vesuvius & Pompeii

SICILY Discover Sicily

MALTA & GOZO Active Gozo

13

‘‘

CROATIA

TURKEY

nding The guides were outsta n, – safety conscious, fu couraging. knowledgeable and en ing The children loved play bocci with the locals! – M. EISE NHO WER (MALTA)

14 15 16 17 NORTHERN IRELAND

ESTONIA

SCOTLAND DENMARK

LITHUANIA WALES

NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

ENGLAND NETHERLANDS BELGIUM

FRANCE

POLAND

GERMANY CZECH REPUBLIC

SWITZERLAND

UKRAINE

SLOVAKIA

AUSTRIA

MOLDOVA HUNGARY

Ice-Pop 24 Winter Slovakia

BELARUS

LUXEMBOURG

FINLAND

SLOVAKIA

25

SLOVENIA PORTUGAL

CROATIA BOSNIA

SPAIN

ROMANIA SERBIA

BULGARIA

ITALY ALBANIA

MEDITE

AN SEA

BLACK SEA

MACEDONIA GREECE

RRANE

TURKEY

SICILY MALTA

Don’t forget!

Booking early often means cheaper flights and more convenient depar ture dates.

10

RUSSIA

LATVIA

IRELAND

SPAIN

19 Learn the Lingo 20 ia Rural Andaluc 21 Active Catalonia In the Heart of the Pyrenees NEW 22 Winter in the Spanish Pyrenees NEW 23

SWEDEN

NORTH SEA

FRANCE

Active Pyrenees NEW 18

FINLAND

NORWAY

CYPRUS


europe :: Croatia approx.

8

to

Top Trip

16

Go mountain biking on Sipan Island

Based on the beautiful island of Lopud, your adventure includes sea-kayaking around the islands and visiting remote caves and bays. Cycle through the colourful villages of Sipan island, walk around Kolocep island, go dolphin watching off Sveti Andrija Island, 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, take a boat trip to Mljet National Park, a canoeing excursion in Herzegovina, or visit Mostar in Bosnia to see the famous bridge.

Your ITINERARY

Go sea kayaking on the Adriatic coast

This is a fun, active holiday using kayaks as your main form of transport to get around the islands. There are both one and two-man kayaks and we recommend that an adult always accompanies a child in the kayak. No previous kayak experience is required. Accommodation is in a delightful guesthouse close to the beach, local restaurants, cafés and shops.

‘‘

We loved seeing everything ‘off the beaten track’, and we had so much fun kayaking around the islands.

‘‘

age guideline ::

2 Sea kayak to Sipan Island, explore by bike. 3 Sea kayak to beautiful beaches of Sunj Bay, snorkel amongst the reefs. 4 Sea kayak to Kolocep Island and explore on foot.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Dubrovnik)

7 Optional jeep safari ‘off the beaten track’. Transfer to Dubrovnik; fly to London.

Spend a couple of extra nights exploring Dubrovnik – contact us for details and prices.

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Guesthouse (7 nights)

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA or Easyjet (see pages 78–79) Kayak • On foot • Bicycle Boat • Minibus • Ferry

Land Only

With Flights

Adult £649 Child £629

Adult £999 Child £979

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Explore the ancient city of Dubrovnik

Sarajevo

BOSNIA Split Mostar

CROATIA

Famous bridge between two communitites (optional tour)

Kolocep Island Walking

Mljet Island

Boat trip (optional)

Sipan Island

Dubrovnik

Mountain biking

Lopud Island

Our base

Airport Transfers Included

h Travel wit a group of families... Go sea kayaking along the Dalmatian Coast

Go dolphin watching off Sveti Andrija.

travel by

TRIP CODE: FCSK

– MARGO N.

5 Beach day or free time to visit Dubrovnik or optional excursions.

8

Active Dalmatia

When to Go

1 Fly to Dubrovnik; ferry transfer to Lopud Island.

6

8 days

what to do next Talk to an expert...

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Visit Neptune’s Fountain Go dolphin watching Discover hidden caves and remote sea inlets Stay on Lopud Island Go mountain biking on Sipan Island Snorkel over colourful coral reefs

Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

Share your photos, stories and views... www.facebook.com/familiesworldwide

11


EUROPE :: Croatia

Croatia River Adventure

war nheis ye

8 days

Discover beautiful scenery

Explore on foot, by bike, from a kayak and from a 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 64 km long, and is special for its 93 waterfalls and pools of warm water between them, perfect for swimming away from beach crowds. Clear water, unspoiled woods and magical landscapes make this one of Croatia’s most desirable continental retreats.

Have fun on the water

approx.

11

to

Explore the region by bike

Most activities are 4-5 hours long, and the schedule is dependent on weather and group abilities. We recommend you are able to swim, and previous kayaking experience is also recommended, but not essential. You’ll stay in a family run hotel located on the bank of the Mreznica river, where breakfast and dinner/BBQ is included.

A fantastic week full of ‘‘activities and staying in a

beautiful area of Croatia – we will definitely be back!

Zagreb

BOSNIA Mreznica River (our base) Kayaking, cycling waterfalls, canyons

CROATIA

Plitvice Lakes National Park Walking

‘‘

This multi-activity adventure will take you along the Mreznica River, through Plitvice Lakes National Park and to the Una River in Bosnia.

age guideline ::

t

TRIP CODE: FCRV

Una River Rafting

– C. POTTS

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

1 Fly to Zagreb, transfer to hotel on the Mreznica River.

h Travel wit a group of families... Go kayaking through a canyon

2

Kayaking on the Mreznica River.

3

Walking in the Plitvice Lakes Natl. Park.

4 Cross country cycling through the Mreznica area. 5 Free day with optional excursions – inc. sea kayaking on the Adriatic. 6

Splash about in waterfalls

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Av. Min temp ˚C

40

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Zagreb)

80

20

0

60 40 20

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Transfer to Zagreb Airport and fly to UK.

fact file

01962 737 560

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (7 nights)

Walk in a beautiful National Park

£

from

7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA or Croatian Airlines (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • On foot • Bicycle Kayak • Raft • Canoe

Land Only

With Flights

Adult £649 Child £629

Adult £949 Child £929

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Talk to an expert...

0845 051 4567

meals

Airport Transfers Included

120 100

30

what to do next

Explore unspoilt forests

12

EASTER HOLIDAYS

Extend your stay on the Dalmatian coastline. Speak to a consultant for more details.

Discover magical landscapes

Share your photos, stories and views... www.facebook.com/familiesworldwide

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

10

7 Kayaking through Mreznica river canyon. 8

Try river rafting

Rafting along the Una River.

When to Go

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now... Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

0

16


europe :: turkey age guideline ::

approx.

8

to

16

active turkey

8 days

TRIP CODE: FTAT

Go pony trekking in the Turkish hills

Gorge scrambling is great fun!

Based in the idyllic Adrasan Bay, away from the mayhem of mass tourism, you can’t fail to fall in love with the beautiful beaches and rugged scenery of Turkey.

You’ll be based in a small hotel in Adrasan on the Lycian Way, minutes from the beach, with a swimming pool, great food, congenial hosts and stunning scenery. There’s an extensive à la carte menu at the hotel, and a number of restaurants in Adrasan.

As well as gorge scrambling at Goynuk Canyon, kayaking to Ceneviz Bay and swimming/ snorkelling in the crystal clear waters, this trip offers a wide range of optional activities, including rock climbing, a visit to a Turkish bath, pony trekking, paragliding, SCUBA diving, climbing and zip-wires, Turkish dancing, and the opportunity to walk some of the Lycian Way. Please note most of the activities are suited to children aged 8+.

Your ITINERARY 1

WITH POOL

Fly to Antalya; transfer to Adrasan.

2 Walk through ruins of Olympos and kayak to Ceneviz Bay. 3

5 Full day boat trip to sunken city of Kekova, swimming and snorkelling. Optional evening barbeque and Turkish dancing! 6 Free day – optional pony trekking, paragliding, or SCUBA ‘Try Dive’. 7 Gorge scrambling at Goynuk Canyon; optional climbing and zip-wires. 8

Transfer to Antalya airport and fly home.

To/From Antalya

Goynuk Canyon Gorge walking

Ulupinar

Chimera flames

Sea kayaking

Adrasan

Demre

Our base

Kekova sunken city boat tour

NEA MEDITERRA

E N S

A

Your comfortable accommodation in Adrasan.

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Sunset walk to Chimera flames.

4 Free – optional rock climbing or Turkish bath.

Can’t resist the water

Av. Min temp ˚C

40

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Antalya)

180

20

120

10 0

300 240

30

60

J

F

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A

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what to do next

0

h Travel wit a group of families... Go kayaking in the sea Roast marshmallows over the eternal Chimera flames

Talk to an expert...

01962 737 560

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (7 nights)

£

from

0845 051 4567

meals

7 breakfasts and 2 lunches included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Easyjet (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • Kayak • Boat On foot • Horse (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Adult £679 Child £659

Adult £979 Child £959

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Airport Transfers Included

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Walk through waterfalls in a gorge Go swimming and snorkelling Take a boat ride to a sunken city Go paragliding – up...up...and away!

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13


europe :: italy

BELLA ITALIA!

8 days

age guideline ::

approx.

7

to

TRIP CODE: FIAR

Enjoy the stunning Abruzzo region

Explore alpine meadows, beech forests, mountain streams and deep limestone gorges. Discover the wonders of La Grotta Mirabile and the hidden sanctuary of an ancient rock hermit. There’s an opportunity to explore the area on horseback or take a well-trodden trail through the woods, and paddle along the Tirino River in Canadian canoes. Then enjoy the vibrant city of Rome.

Visit Rome’s historic Coliseum

This holiday offers a combination of active and cultural interests whatever time of year you travel, with accommodation in comfortable hotels and many meals included in Abruzzo. In Rome the hotel is centrally located, close to famous highlights and only a short bus ride to the Vatican and Coliseum.

‘‘

The best of Abruzzo. The history, culture and scenery was superb, and the guide’s enthusiasm infectious.

Paddle a Canadian canoe through limestone gorges Climb up cliffs to discover a tiny hidden church Be a gladiator for a day!

Fly to Rome; transfer to Abruzzo.

3 Walk through Orfento Gorge and explore La Grotta Mirabile – the ‘Wonderful Cave’. 4 Free day – optional activities in Majella National Park. 5 Walk to the hidden sanctuary of San Bartolomeo; afternoon Italian cookery lesson – then enjoy what you’ve cooked! 6 Transfer to Rome; guided tour of sights. 7

Visit the Coliseum; free time to enjoy Rome.

8

Transfer to Rome airport and fly to London.

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (7 nights) meals

7 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches and 2 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with British Airways or Easyjet (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • On foot • Canadian Canoe • Horse (optional)

See the sights in ancient Rome Explore beech forests – watch out for the wild boar!

14

Terme & Orfento Gorge

Caramanico

(our base)

Majella NP

Visit Coliseum

San Bartolomeo

Italian cookery lesson

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Av. Min temp ˚C

40

Av. Max temp˚C

Climate (Rome)

30 20 10 0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

Av. Rain mm 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

N

D

what to do next Talk to an expert...

Learn to cook Italian-style

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Canoeing

When to Go

2 Canoe and walk along the Tirino River.

h Travel wit a group of families ...

Pescara

Tirino River

– N ATHAN FAMILY

Your ITINERARY 1

Abruzzo National Park

Rome

‘‘

This is a great family adventure including a range of activities in the beautiful Abruzzo region of the Majella National Park.

Canoe along the Tirino River

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

from Adult £1,099 Child £999

Adult £1,449 Child £1,299

Approx. £42 each way per family (if required)

£

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now... Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

16


europe :: italy approx.

5

to

Top Trip

16

8 days

TRIP CODE: FIBN

Learn how to make pasta

Explore mighty Vesuvius and Pompeii

Based in Sorrento, you’ll be perfectly positioned for visiting some of Italy’s finest ancient sites, spectacular coastline and tiny islands.

Everyone will have heard about the fate that befell Pompeii when Vesuvius erupted back in 79AD. Enjoy wandering through the streets and see this unique city once the pride of Roman life. You’ll stay in Sorrento in a family-run hotel with swimming pool. Located close to shops, cafés, restaurants and ice-cream parlours. Close to the train station for visits to Naples or Sorrento city centre.

Have fun learning how to make authentic Italian pasta and tiramisu – and the best part is to enjoy your delicious meal!

‘‘

Our boys were fascinated with

Naples

BAY OF NAPLES

Mt.Vesuvius Herculaneum Pompeii

Our hotel base at Sorrento

Positano

Cooking lesson

alfi

Am

Pompeii and the volcano museum. I loved people-watching in Capri.

Visit the sunny island of Capri

‘‘

Uncover the secrets of Pompeii, climb the dizzy heights of Mount Vesuvius and enjoy optional trips to Naples and 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.

vesuvius & pompeii

Q

age guideline ::

Walk & lunch

t oas

C

Capri

Boat trip

– SARAH K.

Your ITINERARY 1

WITH POOL

Fly to Naples. Hotel in Sorrento.

2 Full day visit to Capri Island including the island boat trip. Blue Grotto optional. 3 Morning cookery class followed by an afternoon siesta! 4 Free day to explore Sorrento or take a boat trip up to Naples.

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Naples)

5 Explore the ruins of Pompeii and walk up Mount Vesuvius. 6 Scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast; walk and a light lunch in a mountain village.

See the forgotten city of Pompeii

7 Optional visit to see the historic Roman ruins of Herculaneum. 8

Fly from Naples to London.

Why not extend your stay in Sorrento? Speak to a consultant for details.

fact file

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 evening meal included

FLIGHTs

Flights with British Airways or Easyjet (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • On foot • Boat Hydrofoil • Train (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £949 Child £929

Adult £1,179 Child £1,159

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

what to do next Talk to an expert...

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (7 nights)

h Travel wit a group of families...

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Take a boat trip to the fairytale Blue Grotto Walk up Mount Vesuvius Make pasta like a Mamma-mia! Scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast

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15


europe :: sicily

DISCOVER sicily 8 days

age guideline ::

7

approx.

to

16

TRIP CODE: FISY

Explore grottos and craters on Mount Etna – the largest active volcano in Europe, and enjoy mountain biking through forests and meadows. The people of Sicily are intensely proud of their island and culture, so you’re sure to enjoy a warm welcome...plus plenty of ice cream!

This holiday offers a great combination of culture, activity and nature, staying in a hotel close to the beatiful Baroque town of Noto. Other than the trek up Mount Etna the terrain is fairly gentle, if a little uneven underfoot, so we recommend good footwear.

Walk through limestone gorges Explore ancient castles

WITH POOL

16

Pantalica Walks

Noto (Our base)

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Av. Min temp ˚C

40

5

Mountain biking in foothills of Mt. Etna.

6 Trek around the craters of Mount Etna and visit the Volcano Museum. 7

Pantalica Necropolis; swimming.

8

Transfer to Catania; fly to London.

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (7 nights) meals

7 breakfasts included

Go mountain biking in the foothills of Mount Etna

FLIGHTs

Flights with British Airways (see pages 78–79)

Learn how papyrus is made

travel by

Minibus • On foot • Cable car Mountain bike • Horse (optional)

£

from

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £949 Child £929

Adult £1,179 Child £1,159

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Siracusa

Maniace Castle

Cassible

Explore Siracusa and Maniace Castle.

4 Explore the Alcantara Gorge and visit the ancient city of Taormina.

Ride in a cable car

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Catania

– McGUIRE FAMILY

2 Visit the canyons of Cassible Nature Reserve. Afternoon pottery lesson. 3

Taormina

Mt Etna

the gorges was fantastic. He really made it interesting for the children.

1 Fly to Catania; transfer to your hotel in Noto (your base).

Climb Mount Etna – Europe’s largest active volcano

Alcantara Gorge

Fabio was an amazing guide ‘‘– his knowledge of Etna and

Your ITINERARY

h Travel wit a group of families...

Enjoy a mountain bike ride

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

A week on Italy’s most iconic island, with plenty of variety to keep the whole family entertained. Walk through canyons and gorges, then travel back in time as you discover castles and ancient theatres from Greek and Roman times in Taormina.

See Greek/Roman ruins and Mt Etna

‘‘

Visit amazing canyons and caves

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Catania)

80

20

60 40

10 0

120 100

30

20

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0

EXTEND YOUR TRIP Enjoy two contrasting Mediterranean islands in one holiday by combining a week in Gozo with a week in Sicily. We can make all the arrangements, including organising the ferry journey between the two islands.

Please contact us for prices and more info.


europe :: Malta age guideline ::

approx.

8

to

Top Trip

16

Scale new heights on the rocks! Discover the delights and traditions of Gozo, a laid-back Mediterranean island located just off Malta. This active holiday features 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 why not laze on an open deck catamaran as it cruises through the crystal clear waters, or dip in with a snorkel and fins.

Enjoy the coastal scenery by boat Based on the peaceful island of Gozo, this trip is full of adventure and activities. On your free afternoons why not go snorkelling, or perhaps try an underwater safari tour. Enjoy exploring the citadella of Victoria – there are plenty of cafés to stop for a coffee and a Maltese pastry!

A fantastic variety of ‘‘activities for our teenagers

You’ll stay in a family-friendly, beach-fronted hotel with swimming pool over-looking the harbour and in close proximity to local shops, restaurants and cafés.

to enjoy; climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, swimming and even milking goats!

Your ITINERARY

When to Go

1 Fly to Malta airport and take a ferry transfer to Gozo. 2 Mountain biking along the coastal and countryside paths. 3

Horse and carriage tour

4

Meet the locals – eco tour.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

5 Free day to explore Victoria and try scuba diving and an optional underwater safari. 6 Sea-kayaking around caves and bays. Learn rock-climbing and abseiling.

8

Transfer to Malta airport; fly to London.

what to do next

01962 737 560

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (7 nights)

£

from

0845 051 4567

meals

7 breakfasts and 2 lunches included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Air Malta or Easyjet (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • Ferry • On foot Bike • Kayak • Boat (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £899 Child £879

Adult £1,129 Child £1,099

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Go kayaking around caves and bays

Gharb

Cycle ride

Victoria

Marsalforn Our base

Gozo

Citadel

Xlendi

Abseiling

Sea kayaking

Mgarr

Ferry terminal

Comino Island

Ferry Crossing

Cirkewwa Malta

h Travel wit a group of families... Go climbing and abseiling

Talk to an expert...

fact file

TRIP CODE: FMAG

– MELANIE W.

Climate (Valletta)

7

ACTIVE GOZO

‘‘

WITH POOL

8 days

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Explore caves and bays by kayak Race along coastal and country tracks by mountain bike Play ‘bocci’ with the locals Swim and snorkel in the Med Enjoy sailing on a catamaran (optional)

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17


EUROPE :: FRANCE

ActiVE Pyrenees

war nheis ye

8 days

A fun, action-packed week based in the tranquil village of Avajan and the stunning Louron Valley of the French Pyrenees – an unspoilt wilderness of mountains, rivers, lakes and waterfalls – the perfect playground for stunning walks, biking, rock climbing, kayaking and white water rafting. Challenge yourself on a tree-top adventure of zip wires and rope bridges. Enjoy swimming in the refreshing mountain lakes and rivers. Visit the mountain village of St Lary and spend an afternoon making a splash at the local outdoor swimming pool with slides, or have a go at making bows and arrows with your host James!

Explore stunning mountain scenery

Stay in a beautifully restored old post lodge with breakfast and four course evening meals (with wine for the adults) as well as children’s meals. En-suite rooms with all the comforts of home, including home cinema, DVDs, Xbox 360 and a snug for those wanting peace and quiet to read. The outdoor local swimming pool with slides is only a 5 minute drive from the lodge.

8

approx.

to

Try hydrospeeding!

FRANCE Reserve Naturelle du Néouvielle

We had an amazing time ‘‘biking, kayaking, rafting,

To/from London

Toulouse

Saint-Lary-Soulan Mountain village and biking

Walks & waterfalls

Avajan

(Our base) Tree-top adventure

PYRENEES

SPAIN

‘‘

Have fun white water rafting

age guideline ::

t

TRIP CODE: FFAP

swimming, climbing... James was the perfect host.

– M. THOMPSON

Your ITINERARY

When to Go

1 Fly to Toulouse; transfer to Avajan. Afternoon walk. 2 White water rafting; afternoon visit to the mountain town of St-Lary-Soulan.

h Travel wit a group of families... Explore a natural wilderness Learn how to rock climb Make a splash in the waterfalls

4 Downhill biking; afternoon free or optional kayaking on the lake. 5 Free day – optional activities: hydrospeeding, horse-riding, kayaking, fishing… 6 Walk through the mountains and swim in waterfalls. 7 Treetop adventure – zip wires, rope bridges; afternoon free. 8

Departure day – fly to London. OUTDOOR POOL CLOSE TO THE LODGE

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Lodge (7 nights)

Experience the thrill of zip-wires Walk in the beautiful Pyrenees

18

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

3 Rock climbing; afternoon free or optional swimming at local pool.

Have fun downhill biking

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

BA and Easyjet flights to Toulouse (see pages 78–79)

travel by

On foot • Bicycle • Minibus Raft • Kayak • Horse (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £999 Child £979

Adult £1,249 Child £1,229

Approx. £100 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

40

Av. Min temp ˚C

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Pyrenees - below the snowline)

80

20

60 40

10 0

120 100

30

20

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

what to do next Talk to an expert...

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now... Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

0

16


europe :: Spain age guideline ::

approx.

14

to

18

8 days

(for language beginners see 'FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY' below)

Learn the Lingo! TRIP CODE: FSLI

A new style of holiday for families with children who are learning a language at school or college. A few mornings of the week are spent in the classroom learning and conversing in Spanish. At the end of your course you will receive a certificate of attendance from the recognised interlingual school. In the afternoon, enjoy spending family time together participating in activities including cycling, stand-up paddle boarding and cooking a local dish, as well as cultural visits. There is also a free day, allowing you take the train to Barcelona to enjoy the sights of this beautiful and iconic city.

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

1 Fly to Girona; transfer to Calella. 2

Guided walk in Montnegre National Park.

3 Morning Spanish class; afternoon market visit and cookery workshop. 4 Morning Spanish class; afternoon bike ride.

Practice Spanish with new amigos! This holiday is based on learning through experience with a combination of fun activities to liven up the day, staying in the seaside town of Calella. The aim of the holiday is to inspire confidence when speaking and writing Spanish, with set departures for GCSE and A-level students.

I recommend this trip to ‘‘other teenagers who want

a fun active holiday whilst improving their Spanish.

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (7 nights)

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Thomson Fly flights to Girona (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • On foot • Bike Paddle board • Train (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £799 Child £779

Adult £1,099 Child £1,079

Included to Girona

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Girona Airport

Montnegre National Park

Cycling & walks

Barcelona

Calella

(Our seaside base) Paddle boarding Sea kayaking

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

h Travel wit a group of families...

Climate (Barcelona)

6 Morning Spanish class; afternoon stand-up paddle boarding and dinner in a bodega.

8 Transfer to Girona airport; fly to London.

ANDORRA

– HANNAH W.

5 Free day – take the train to Barcelona or chill out on the beach.

7 Morning Spanish class; afternoon beach volleyball game.

Explore the iconic city of Barcelona

SPAIN

‘‘

Try stand-up paddle boarding

Improve your Spanish and receive a certificate

For the whole family... Aimed at beginners, the whole family can now learn some conversational Spanish during morning sessions. In the afternoon enjoy activities such as cycling, sea kayaking and a treasure hunt where you can try out your Spanish. The hotel has a swimming pool and is convenient for the town centre and beach. Breakfast and dinner are included and one evening is spent at the local bodega. TRIP CODE: FSLB MAY HALF TERM

Enjoy a cookery lesson and learn to make traditional paella Try paddle boarding Play beach volleyball Visit Montenegre National Park Go to Barcelona for the day

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Please contact us for prices and more info.

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19


EUROPE :: spain

rural andalucia

8 days

age guideline ::

approx.

1

to

TRIP CODE: FSAE

From your base, a beautifully restored traditional villa in the heart of rural Spain, you can choose from a list of walks, activities and learning experiences. Explore on foot the almond orchards, olive groves, terraces and traditional whitewashed villages in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains. You’ll experience many aspects of local life, learning crafts, cookery and farming. There’s also an evening of star gazing, plus opportunities for walking, horse riding and cycling, or an optional visit to the Alhambra Palace in Granada.

Go mountain biking, rock climbing, horse riding, and much more! Offered virtually all year round and ideal for families looking for a non-commercial area in southern Spain. Centre-based so you can choose how active you want to be with a choice of walks to suit all abilities. Especially suitable for young children as onsite babysitting can normally be offered (the owners of the villa have a young family themselves).

the playgrounds, the food and the other children. YOUR ITINERARY

Go on a treasure hunt Ride a local donkey – ‘burro’ Learn Spanish with role play

WITH POOL

2–7 Choose five morning activities from the list on the scroll below left. Other optional activities include horse riding, multiadventure day with high ropes, zip wires and swings, mountain biking, archery, pony trekking and helping to make local cheese. And there are plenty of walks nearby for all abilities, with maps and walking notes provided. 8

You can extend or tailor this trip especially for your family – please contact us for details.

Mt. Mulhacen 3482m Sierra Nevada Trevelez Alpujarras Spain’s highest village

Mairena

Our mountain base

Almeria

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Almeria)

what to do next Talk to an expert...

fact file Spend a day on the farm

ACCOMMODATIOn Guesthouse (7 nights)

Bake Spanish cakes & cookies Try basket weaving Help milk a goat & make cheese

20

SPAIN

Fly to London.

Go on a nature walk

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Granada

Alhambra Palace

– A NDREW MANNING

1 Fly to Almeria; transfer to Mairena.

menu of activities...

Walk in the Sierra Nevada Mountains

relaxing experience! ‘‘TheA truly children really enjoyed

‘‘

Have fun at a local farm

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Easyjet or BA (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Car/Minibus • On foot Optional horse riding & cycling

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £589 Child £279

Adult £899 Child £599

Approx. £130 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now... Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

7


europe :: spain age guideline ::

TEENAGER

11 +

8 days

active catalonia TRIP CODE: FSAC

New this year – go with the flow river-trekking and canyoning. 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 tree-tops as you navigate your way through the canopy and zip-wire across the forest. Test your skill and concentration with the bow. Go sea kayaking, mountain biking and explore beautiful medieval villages.

YOUR ITINERARY Go with the flow – river trekking.

3 Full day at the Adventure Lake with priority access to all the activities: zipwires; kayaking; high ropes; archery; mountain biking. 4 Free day on beach; optional activities or visit Dali Museum in Figueres.

‘‘

Great scenery, great food and warm friendly people. It was a family holiday to remember forever.

7 Canyoning in Gorges du Anelles (France). Departure day. OUTDOOR POOL ONLY 100m FROM HOTEL

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (7 nights)

£

meals

7 breakfasts and 1 picnic lunch included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Thomson Fly to Girona (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • On foot • Kayak Bike • Horse (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £999 Child £979

Adult £1,299 Child £1,279

Included from Girona

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Sant Aniol Valley Hiking

Sea kayaking

Figueres River Fluvia

River trekking

Castelló d’Empúries Our base

Adventure Lake

Zip wires, archery, mountain biking

ME

TE DI

RR

A

A NE

N

S

– S TEVE CLIFFORD

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Girona)

6 Sea kayaking along the rugged Catalan coast and afternoon walk to Castle of Sant de Verdera.

from

Castle of Sant de Verdero

Girona

5 Trekking through Sant Aniol Valley and visit medieval town of Besalu.

8

Go with the flow

When to Go

1 Fly to Girona; transfer to Castello D’Empuries. 2

An action packed holiday with a wide range of activities to entertain all the family, from canyoning – scaling down waterfalls, to river trekking, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and the option to go tandem sky-diving or horseriding. Based in the beautiful medieval village of Castello D’Empuries, staying in a family-run hotel, specialising in Catalan cuisine with an outside pool close by.

‘‘

Recommended for thrill-seeking families!

Kayak along the rugged coastline

EA

Just hanging around...

h Travel wit a group of families... Go with the flow - river trekking

what to do next Talk to an expert...

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Go sea kayaking on the Catalan Coast Try canyoning through waterfalls Abseil down a rockface Have fun on zip-wires & high ropes Test your skills with a bow & arrow Mountain bike along forest trails

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21


EUROPE :: SPAIN

in the Heart of the Pyrenees

war nheis ye

8 days

Have fun on the water

Go walking in the mountains

Enjoy summertime in the wonderful Spanish Pyrenees, staying in the medieval town of Berdun with beautiful vistas on mountain walks, swimming in rivers and mountain lakes, cultural visits and adventurous activities.

You’ll stay in a delightful guesthouse with large private rooms (some with a small kitchenette). Close by there is a large municipal swimming pool open from June to early September. The Pyrenees is a fantastic natural playground, with mountain rivers, kayaking, optional rock climbing, horse-riding, caving or gliding.

This holiday is a true ‘great escape’, with walks and biking through the Pyrenees, kayaking on mountain lakes, and the thrill of zip wires and high ropes in the forest canopy, as well as cultural visits to the medieval town of Jaca, the 16th century citadel and Monastery of San Juan de la Peña, all against a backdrop of stunning nature and scenery.

age guideline ::

t

TRIP CODE: FSSP

8

approx.

to

Bird’s eye views!

BAY OF BISCAY

FRANCE To/from London

Bilbao

PYRENEES

Walks & tree-top adventure

SPAIN Berdun

Jaca

(Our base) Nature walks and treasure hunt

Medieval city

Your comfortable farmhouse accommodation

Your ITINERARY

When to Go

1 Fly to Bilbao; transfer to Casa Sarasa, Berdun. 2 Get to know the local area on a treasure hunt; afternoon free.

h Travel wit a group of families...

4

Kayaking on mountain lakes.

5 Visit the medieval town of Jaca and the Monastery of San Juan de la Peña (optional).

Experience the thrill of zip wires

6 Free day – optional mountain biking or horse-riding. 7 Morning tree-top adventure – high ropes and zip wires; evening BBQ. 8

Transfer to Bilbao and fly to UK. OUTDOOR POOL CLOSE TO GUESTHOUSE

Go trekking in stunning scenery Try rock climbing

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Guesthouse (7 nts)

(optional)

Splash around in a waterfall Go on a treasure hunt

22

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

3 Walk through foothills of the Pyrenees.

Go kayaking on mountain lakes

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16

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts and 2 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Easyjet flights to Bilbao (see pages 78–79)

travel by

On foot • Minibus • Kayak Horse/mountain bike (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £859 Child £839

Adult £1,129 Child £1,099

Included from Bilbao

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

40

Av. Min temp ˚C

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Pyrenees - below the snowline)

30

100 80

20

60 40

10 0

120

20

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

what to do next Talk to an expert...

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now... Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

0


europe :: SPAIN age guideline ::

approx.

8

to

war nheis ye

16

TRIP CODE: FSWP

Stop to enjoy the views

Head into the foothills and get off the beaten track on your snowshoes. Experience the thrill of cross-country skiing and enjoy the amazing views and fresh, clean mountain air. Have a fun day on the slopes with a local ski instructor for some morning instruction. Find your way around Berdun on a fun treasure hunt through this mountain village. Explore the medieval town of Jaca, the 16th century citadel and an optional visit to San Juan de la Peña Monastery. Have fun building an igloo and get buried in a snow-hole!

Your ITINERARY

Head home for tea

An action-packed week of wintery activities based in the scenic mountain village of Berdun, in a delightful family-run guesthouse with large private rooms and beautiful gardens, with free time to explore Berdun, the citadel of Jaca and the beautiful monastery.

‘‘

We spent an exhilarating week in the Pyrenees, skiing and snowshoeing. The kids loved being in the mountains and building an igloo!

BAY OF BISCAY

FRANCE To/from London

Bilbao

PYRENEES

Snow activities

SPAIN Berdun

(Our base) Nature walks and treasure hunt

Jaca

Medieval city

– K. JONES

When to Go

1 Fly to Bilbao and transfer to Casa Sarasa, Berdun. 2 Get to know the local area on a treasure hunt; afternoon free. 3

Lovely medieval Berdun

‘‘

The snow-clad mountains of the Spanish Pyrenees offer an exciting week of winter activities.

Winter in the Spanish Pyrenees

8 days

t

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Snow-shoeing off the beaten track. 40

4 Day on the slopes – skiing or snow boarding. 5 Visit to the medieval town of Jaca and go ice skating (optional). 6

Cross-country skiing.

7

Build an igloo and a snow-hole.

8

Transfer to Bilbao and fly to UK.

Av. Min temp ˚C

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Pyrenees - below the snowline)

100

30

80

20

60 40

10 0

120

20

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

what to do next

0

h Travel wit a group of families... Build an igloo! Enjoy invigorating walks through the snow-clad mountains

Talk to an expert...

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Guesthouse (7 nights)

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts and 2 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Easyjet flights to Bilbao (see pages 78–79)

travel by

On foot • Minibus • Snowshoes Skis • Ice skates (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £999 Child £979

Adult £1,149 Child £1,129

Included from Bilbao

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Go skiing or snowboarding Explore a medieval town Go snowshoeing off the beaten track Have fun in a winter paradise!

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23


europe :: finland

ice pop

5 days

age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

14

TRIP CODE: FFIP

Make friends with the huskies

Enjoy a ride on a real reindeer sleigh

This is a truly memorable experience. Fly up to the Arctic Circle and enter a magical winter wonderland, thick with snow. Enjoy the thrill of riding on a snowmobile across open landscapes, walk through the snow-capped woods on snowshoes, meet the indigenous Sami people and their reindeers, and have a go at cross-country skiing.

A fun adventure with 4 nights’ accommodation in a simple yet comfortable Scandinavian-style hotel, with sauna and views across the frozen river. The extension is in a Snow Hotel – warm bedding is provided but you need to wrap up warm and remember your thermals!

Extend your trip by a day and cross the border into Norway to the edge of the Arctic Ocean and sleep in a Snow Hotel! Thermal snowsuits and boots are provided.

‘‘

‘‘

3 Optional husky farm visit; afternoon visit to the Sami Museum and Northern Lapland Nature Centre. 4 Meet the Sami, be a reindeer herder for a day and enjoy a sleigh ride.

See the Northern Lights

5

24

meals

4 breakfasts and 4 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Finnair (see pages 78–79)

travel by

£

from

FINLAND

To/From Helsinki

Arctic Circle

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Ivalo)

EXTEND YOUR TRIP Extend your stay at the very special and unique Snow Hotel. See snow sculptured furniture, have a cosy dinner by an open fire and enjoy a cool drink in the ice bar.

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (4 nights)

Sleep in a Snow Hotel....Brrrr Share your photos, stories and views... www.facebook.com/familiesworldwide

Transfer to Ivalo airport; fly to London.

fact file

(optional)

Ivalo

When to Go

Have a go at snowshoeing

Go on a husky ride

RUSSIA

Inari

Our Base Siida Museum

– EVANS FAMILY

2 Enjoy a range of snow activities; afternoon optional snowmobile safari.

Learn about the traditional Sami Folk and reindeers

Kirkenes

Snow Hotel (extension)

Snowmobile Trip Lake Inari

There was so much deep snow everywhere and with all the equipment available 24 hours a day the kids were in heaven!

1 Fly to Ivalo airport; transfer to Menesjärvi village, near Inari.

Go sledging & play in the snow

NORWAY

Reindeer Farm

Your ITINERARY

h Travel wit a group of families...

Spend the day with the Sami

Minibus • Snowmobile Sledge • Sleigh • Ski (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £729 Child £699

Adult £1,229 Child £1,199

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Please contact us for prices and more info.


europe :: slovakia age guideline ::

approx.

7

to

16

8 days

Winter Slovakia TRIP CODE: FSWS

Have fun on the slopes!

Hike amongst the snow-laden pine trees on a wilderness adventure to the Zelené Pleso mountain lake, race downhill on sledges and try your hand at dog-sledding. Experience the thrill of playing on waterslides and then plunging into the warm thermal waters at Poprad. On your free day enjoy a winter walk to the waterfalls or visit Belianska cave, or take a trip to the medieval town of Kezmarok.

Your ITINERARY

2 Skiing or snowboarding (ski lift and ski pass not included). 3–4 Snowshoe expedition to mountain hut at Zelené Pleso. 5 Cross-country skiing and visit to thermal pools at Aqua City, Poprad. 6

Dog-sledding and downhill sledging.

7

Free day – optional activities.

8

Transfer to Krakow airport; fly to London.

You can extend or tailor this trip especially for your family – please contact us for details.

ACCOMMODATIOn Mountain pension (6 nights)

Mountain hut (1 night)

£

7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 evening meal included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA or Easyjet (see pages 78–79)

travel by

Minibus • Train • Snowshoes Sledge • Dog-sled • Ski lift

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £799 Child £779

Adult £1,099 Child £1,079

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Krakow POLAND GERMANY Tatranská Lomnica

‘‘

All the snow sports provided endless fun. The thermal pools were really relaxing and the night in the mountain hut was so cosy. We loved every minute!

Our Base

Poprad

Aqua City

SLOVAKIA Bratislava HUNGARY Budapest

– A. HUMPHRIES

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Bratislava)

h Travel wit a group of families... Splash about in thermal pools!

what to do next Talk to an expert...

fact file

from

Anyone up for a snowball fight?

When to Go

1 Fly to Krakow airport; transfer to Tatranská Lomnica.

meals

This holiday can be as relaxed or as active as you like. You’ll be based in a comfortable pension/ski lodge with superb views over the High Tatra Mountains (one night in a mountain hut). Warm winter/ski clothing is required.

‘‘

Set in the shadow of the stunning Tatra Mountains, this is a magical snowy landscape where you can enjoy a variety of winter activities from snowshoeing to sledging, with an opportunity to have a go at skiing (crosscountry and downhill) and/or snowboarding.

Enjoy the thrill of dog sledding

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Build a snowman Have a go at snowshoeing Race down the slopes on a sledge Try cross-country or downhill skiing Go dog-sledding – “Mush mush!”

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25


Build Your Own Trip High Atlas Adventure Atlas Mule Train Kasbahs & Camels Desert & Mountains

27 28 29 30 31

tic. Our guide was fantas ins The trip to the mounta eryone was a highlight and ev rd involved worked very ha and to make our trip safe

‘‘

enjoyable.

‘‘

Morocco

OCC O) – MCFADD EN FAM ILY (MOR

SPAIN

TIC

OC EA

N

PORTUGAL

AN AT L

MOROCCO

ALGERIA

WESTERN SAHARA MAURITANIA MALI

Don’t forget!

Booking ear ly often means cheaper flights and more convenient departure dates.

26

EA

EAN S

ERRAN

MEDIT


NORTH AFRICA :: mOROCCO Walk through Berber villages

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Morocco is an exciting destination for families, with its traditional culture, bustling towns and cities, charming villages, snow-capped mountains, desert dunes and a fascinating coastline to explore. Enjoy beautiful walks in the Atlas mountains and see tiny Berber villages along the way. Ride a camel in the Sahara

Explore Morocco's ancient cities Explore Fez, Imperial Meknes and Roman Volubilis, with its wonderful mosaics – a fascinating insight into Morocco's history.

Discover the charm of Essaouira

Essaouira

Rabat

Fez Meknes & Volubilis

Casablanca

Dades & Todra Gorges

Marrakech

Sahara Desert Camel trekking

Explore the Sahara by camel, riding through the dunes on your trusty steed.

Ait Benhaddou Kasbah du Toubkal

Kasbah

Explore an ancient kasbah

Discover the atmospheric old port of Essaouira. Explore the faded grandeur of its colonial past and wander through the winding streets of this former pirates' haven.

See acrobats and jugglers Visit Djemma el Fna (market square in old Marrakech) and be spellbound as fireeaters, acrobats and jugglers entertain the crowds.

Stay in a Bedouin-style tent A once-in-a-lifetime experience as you settle down in your Bedouin tent watching the shooting stars streak across the sky – an opportunity not to be missed!

The Ait Benhaddou Kasbah is full of mystery and secrets – a stopping point on the Saharan caravan route to Marrakech.

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See pages 28–31 for details of our group trips with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Morocco.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

27


north africa :: morocco

high atlas adventure

8 days

age guideline ::

approx.

7

to

16

TRIP CODE: FMHA

Discover traditional Berber villages

A wonderful walking experience in the Atlas Mountains. As well as exploring the atmospheric bazaar of old Marrakech, you’ll enjoy the tranquil pace of life in the remote villages of the High Atlas. Easy day-walks will introduce you to mountain villages inhabited by the friendly and traditional Berber tribe.

This is a walking trip, although mules are available to ride for tired children. Accommodation in the mountains is in simple, traditional Berber houses, and in Marrakech we use a 3-star hotel chosen for its proximity to the bazaar. Marrakech

‘‘

The mountain accommodation was above expectations. Driss, the guide, was exceptional. He had great knowledge of local areas and geology.

To/From London

Bazaar and snake charmers

Tacheddirt Aremd

Essaouira Extension

ins Mt Toubkal

ounta

Atlas M

Imlil

Berber village

Old Pirates’ Hideaway

‘‘

Once you’ve acclimatised we’ll set off on a trek deeper into the hills, through stunning mountains where life has stood still for centuries. At the end of the trip we recommend an extension to the old coastal port of Essaouira or more time in Marrakech.

Experience Marrakech at dusk

Enjoy the views

On foot

– DUCKETT FAMILY

Your ITINERARY

h Travel wit a group of families... Meet the friendly Berber tribe Ride a mule up a mountain! Learn to cook a tajine stew

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Marrakech.

2

Marrakech; tour of bazaar and medina.

3

Drive to Imlil (Atlas village). Walk to Aremd.

4 Walk to holy shrine at village of Sidi Chamarouch.

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Marrakech)

7 Drive to Marrakech; free time for shopping & souvenir hunting. 8

Fly to London.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (3 nts), mountain refuge

(1nt), village houses (3 nts)

Walk in the dramatic Atlas mountains See fire-eaters and sword-swallowers

28

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

5/6 2-day walk in Atlas Mountains with overnight stays in Berber villages.

Have fun haggling in a bazaar

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When to Go

meals

7 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA, Royal Air Maroc or Easyjet (see pages 78–79)

travel by

£

from

Extend your stay in the old fishing port of Essaouira. Ride camels along the beach, go kite-surfing, enjoy delicious seafood and wander around its relaxed bazaar in search of souvenirs.

Minibus • On foot • Mule Calesh (horse-drawn cart)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £379 Child £359

Adult £699 Child £669

Approx. £30 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Please contact us for prices and more info.


north africa :: morocco approx.

2

to

Top Trip

10

10 days

TRIP CODE: FMAM

Play ‘hide and seek’ in a palace

The kids ride – you walk

This trip is specifically designed for families with younger children. You’ll see fire-eaters and colourful entertainers in old Marrakech and then explore the tranquil Berber villages of the Atlas. Here, easy walks with picnic lunches and mule support provide a great way to explore the mountains.

You’ll stay in simple guesthouses in the Atlas; elsewhere in mid-range hotels. There are no babysitting or child-minding facilities, but the trip is designed with youngsters in mind. You can bring a papoose/back-pack if you like, although mules are provided for children, allowing parents to explore the mountains (and walk with like-minded parents).

Your ITINERARY 1

WITH POOL

Fly to Marrakech.

2 Marrakech; ride a horse-drawn carriage, explore bazaar and main square. 3 Drive to Atlas Mountains and ride/walk to Aremd village. 4

We loved seeing argan oil ‘‘being produced – we all had

6

Walk to Aremd with mule support.

7

Walk then drive to Essaouira.

Marrakech

To/From London

Bazaar and snake charmers

Imlil Tacheddirt

Essaouira

Old Pirates’ Hideaway

Aremd ins Mt Toubkal

ounta

Atlas M

On foot

a go at grinding nuts; the children were fascinated.

– SMITH FAMILY

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Walk to Tacheddirt with mule support.

5 Easy walks from Tacheddirt with mule support.

Experience the colours of Morocco

‘‘

While you walk, your children ride mules, so you can stretch your legs and take in the clear mountain air and views. Finally, you’ll have a few days at Essaouira to explore this historic port – take a stroll around the ramparts and see the old cannons facing out to sea, wander through alleyways packed with local crafts, or you can simply relax on the beach.

atlas mule train

age guideline ::

Climate (Marrakech)

h Travel wit a group of families...

8 Essaouira bazaar shopping or beach. 9

In Essaouira; afternoon drive to Marrakech.

10

Fly to London.

Ride a horse-drawn carriage

Extend your stay for a few nights in a luxury Marrakech riad – please contact us for details.

what to do next

fact file

Talk to an expert...

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (5 nights), mountain

guesthouses (4 nights) meals

9 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA, Royal Air Maroc or Easyjet (see pages 78–79)

travel by

£

from

Minibus • On foot • Mule Calesh (horse-drawn cart)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £529 Child £499

Adult £829 Child £809

Approx. £30 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Haggle for souvenirs in a traditional bazaar See fire-eaters and acrobats! Ride a mule in the mountains Play on the beach Meet the friendly Berber tribe

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29


North africa :: morocco

kasbahs & camels

8 days

age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

TRIP CODE: FMKC

Try riding a camel

Relax at the fishing port of Essaouira and ride camels along the beach. Finally, explore the lively bazaar in Marrakech’s colourful souk and step back in time as the square comes to life with acrobats and jugglers.

Accommodation is in local-style but comfortable hotels or riads (a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden). To/From London

Slimane, our guide was ‘‘always thinking ahead of

Marrakech

Bazaars & jugglers

Essaouira

our welfare and needs. The children adored him and he joined in with their group games every evening.

‘‘

This trip is specifically designed to give a taste of the variety and colour of Morocco. Travelling by minibus, you’ll head across the Atlas Mountains, stopping to visit the spectacular Ait Benhaddou kasbah made famous in the film Gladiator. Learn about the life of the friendly and hospitable Berber tribes as you stay in their simple mountain villages.

Rock the Kasbah in Ait Benhaddou

Old Pirates’ Hideaway

n t a in Mou A t la s Ait Benhaddou

s

Classic kasbah

Taroudant

Village stay

– M EIN FAMILY

Your ITINERARY 1

WITH POOL

Fly to Marrakech.

2 Marrakech city tour; drive over Atlas Mountains to Ait Benhaddou.

h Travel wit a group of families... Haggle in the bazaars Ride a camel Visit a majestic kasbah

4 Easy walks in mountains to discover local Berber villages. 5

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Marrakech)

Drive via Taroudant to Essaouira.

6 Visit harbour/old port. Optional camel ride. 7 Afternoon drive to Marrakech; evening to explore Djemma el Fna. 8

Fly to London.

what to do next Talk to an expert...

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (5 nights)

Riad (2 nights) meals

7 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA, Royal Air Maroc or Easyjet

Meet the friendly Berber tribe Learn to cook a tajine stew

30

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

3 Drive along edge of Anti Atlas.

Play and surf at the beach

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When to Go

travel by

£

from

Minibus • On foot Camels (Optional) • Calesh

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £469 Child £449

Adult £799 Child £779

Approx. £30 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now... Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

16


africa :: morocco age guideline ::

approx.

7

to

16

DESERT & Mountains

14 days

TRIP CODE: FMMH

Discover huge desert sand dunes

Visit the old pirate’s lair of Essaouira

Just across the Straits of Gibraltar, Morocco will absorb your family with exotic sights, sounds and smells. We have chosen some of the best highlights in this exciting country.

This trip is full of exciting highlights, but involves a couple of longer driving days. Facilities in the desert camp will be pretty basic. You can opt out of the camel riding and walks if you prefer.

Tangier From London

Volubilis

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Fez.

2

City tour of Fez; free time to explore or relax.

3

Explore Roman Volubilis & Imperial Meknes.

4

Drive to Ifrane; walk in the woods.

We couldn’t believe how ‘‘much we fitted in. The trip

was well organised with a great balance of culture, walking, and lots of laughs!

Explore the dunes; drive to Tinerhir.

8

Short walks at Todra and Dades Gorges.

Azrou

Q

To London

Marrakech

Midelt Dades Ait Gorge Merzouga Benhaddou

Essaouira Ouarzazate Jebel Jebel Tizal Toubkal 3050m 4167m

Camel ride & camp

RA

HA

SA

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Marrakech)

9 Explore the kasbah at Ait Benhaddou. 10/11 Drive to Essaouira; free to explore beach, bazaars and old port. 12

Fez Meknes

– NEALS FAMILY

5/6 Continue to Merzouga via Midelt, camel trek to Bedouin desert camp. 7

Casablanca

‘‘

See the Imperial Cities with their palaces and sprawling souks. Discover the majestic beauty of the Sahara Desert where you can head off into the dunes on your camel and spend a night under the stars. Walk through dramatic Atlas gorges, explore a kasbah of Gladiator fame and cross the High Atlas Mountains. Then down to the coastal town of Essaouira for two days, returning to vibrant Marrakech to watch acrobats and jugglers in the Djemma el Fna.

Q

Explore the Imperial Cities

h Travel wit a group of families... Go camel trekking in the desert

Essaouira; afternoon drive to Marrakech.

13 Marrakech city tour; time to explore souks. 14

Fly to London.

what to do next Talk to an expert...

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (11 nights), desert camp

(1 night), auberge (1 night)

£

from

meals

13 breakfasts and 3 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Royal Air Maroc

travel by

Minibus • Mules • On foot Calesh (horse-drawn carriage)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £799 Child £779

Adult £1,249 Child £1,229

Approx. £30 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560

Sleep in a Bedouin-style tent under the stars Swim in a real desert oasis

0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Discover Roman Meknes & Volubilis Explore souks and kasbahs like the ones from the ‘Gladiator’ movie!

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31


Africa African Safari

‘‘ 33

BOTSWANA

Botswana Camping Adventure NEW 34

NAMIBIA Cheetahs & Dunes

TANZANIA & ZANZIBAR Swahili Coast & Safari Build Your Own Trip

KENYA Rift Valley Explorer Build Your Own Trip

dunes the next.

35 36 38

– GRE EN FAM ILY

NIGERIA

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

CAMEROON

37 39

‘‘

BUILD YOUR OWN TRIP

Namibia was superb. We’ll always remember g the contrasts of seein d wildlife one minute an scaling enormous sand

EQUATORIAL GUINEA GABON

CONGO

SUDAN

ETHIOPIA

UGANDA

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

SOMALIA

KENYA

RWANDA

INDIAN OC

BURUNDI

OCEAN ATLANTIC

ANGOLA MALAWI

ZAMBIA

ZIMBABWE

NAMIBIA

MOZAMBIQUE

BOTSWANA

SWAZILAND SOUTH AFRICA

Don’t forget!

Booking early often means cheaper flights and more convenient depar ture dates.

32

ZANZIBAR

EAN

TANZANIA

MADAGASCAR


AFRICA :: TAILOR MADE THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH!

Build your own safari in Africa Africa offers incredible opportunities for families to get up close and personal with nature and enjoy a classic safari experience, from grassy savannah plains to high mountains and white sandy beaches with warm turquoise seas. The African Rift Valley is often described as ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’. Don’t miss it! ZAMBIA KENYA

Escape the crowds to see wildlife from your exclusive lodge in the Luangwa Valley, and visit the amazing Victoria falls.

As well as seeing fantastic wildlife, learn to dance and dress like a Masai warrior.

NAMIBIA

TANZANIA & ZANZIBAR

Visit the highest sand dunes in the world at Sossusvlei, see wildlife at Etosha National Park, and spot dolphins off the Skeleton Coast.

SOUTH AFRICA Just an hour’s time difference makes South Africa a great country for a self-drive holiday or private guided itinerary.

Swim and snorkel in the warm, turquoise waters of Zanzibar Island at the end of your safari. BOTSWANA

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See pages 34–37 for details of our group trips with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Africa.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

The expert’s view

The best time to visit East Africa is during the British summer (Jul–Oct). It’s generally cooler than you’d think and wildlife is easy to see in the dry season.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Africa. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Explore the tranquil oasis and lagoons of the Okavango Delta by dugout canoe.

33


Africa :: Botswana & Zambia

Botswana Camping Adventure

war nheis ye

11 days

Observe elephants from the water

Explore a wide range of habitats from open grassland to thicket forests, lagoons, the Chobe River and the Zambezi. See elephants, lions, wild dogs and hippos, to name just a few. You’ll be taught bush-tracking and survival skills, and you’ll visit a village school and go shopping in the local markets. The trip ends at the incredible Victoria Falls where you can marvel at Mosi Oa Tunya – the ‘smoke that thunders’.

TEENAGER

11 +

Get up close on safari

There are a few long driving days and the terrain is bumpy and dusty – this is Africa! As part of the adventure you are encouraged to get involved with daily camp duties, such as erecting tents, collecting firewood, or helping prepare meals. On some nights you will camp in private, wild campsites and other nights include en-suite facilities, pool and restaurant.

NORTH KOREA ZAMBIA SOUTH Victoria Falls KOREA

Adventure activities

To London

Livingstone

Chobe National Park CHINA

Wildlife viewing & river cruise

KENYA Savuti

Wildlife viewing

Moremi Game Reserve Wildlife viewing

‘‘

Camping wild in Botswana will stay with our family for the rest of our lives. It was a life changing experience.

Maun From London (via J’berg)

‘‘

Botswana and Zambia are considered to be the best wildlife-viewing destinations for a truly exceptional safari.

age guideline ::

t

TRIP CODE: FBCA

BOTSWANA

– RICHARD WHITE

Your ITINERARY 1

h Travel wit a group of families... Spot amazing wildlife on safari Experience wild bush camping! Watch elephants at Chobe River

WITH POOL

Fly to Maun via Johannesburg.

2–6 Wildlife viewing by 4WD, boat trips and wild bush camping in Moremi, Savuti and Chobe National Park. Learn bush trekking and survival skills. Have fun sleeping out in the wild and seeing amazing wildlife. 7 Chobe River: wildlife viewing; sunset cruise. 8–9 Cross into Zambia; travel to Victoria Falls. Visit Mosi oa Tunya with optional excursions and activities. 10

Transfer to Livingstone Airport; overnight flight.

11

Arrive UK.

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Chalet (2 nts)

Explore an untouched wilderness Feel the awesome power of the Victoria Falls!

Av. Min temp ˚C

40

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Gaborone)

120 100

30

80

20

60 40

10

20

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

0

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

fact file

See lions, buffalo and hippos

34

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

0

ACCOMMODATIOn Lodge (1 nt), Camping (6 nts)

Share your photos, stories and views... www.facebook.com/familiesworldwide

When to Go

meals

9 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Scheduled flights with South African Airlines & Botswana Air

travel by

4WD • On foot • Boat

Extend your stay in Victoria Falls and see the incredible thundering waterfalls. Enjoy the many activities on offer such as a Zambezi cruise, horseback trails and forest walks.

Canoe (optional) • Elephant (optional)

£

from

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £1,129 Child £1,099

Adult £2,399 Child £2,249

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Please contact us for prices and more info.


africa :: namibia age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

16

13 days

CHeetahs & Dunes TRIP CODE: FNBC

See cheetahs up close in the wild

Have fun in Namibia’s biggest sandpit!

An altogether amazing adventure in one of Africa’s most beautiful countries. Namibia is one of the world’s best wildlife destinations and provides a combination of varied landscapes and superb game viewing possibilities. 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 Waterberg Plateau.

You’ll have to put up and take down your own dome tents, but a camp assistant does all other chores including the cooking. All you need are sleeping bags, which can be hired locally if necessary. A great African adventure!

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

‘‘

This trip is not for very young children as quite a lot of driving is involved, although there are several 2-night stops and opportunities to relax.

‘‘

Fantastic changing scenery, brilliant and knowledgeable guides – a superb safari!

Spot dolphins off the Skeleton Coast

Etosha NP

Wildlife viewing

Skeleton Coast Cape Cross

Cheetah Conservation Fund Brandberg Mt.

Waterberg Plateau

Wildlife viewing

Windhoek

Cape fur seals

Q

Swakopmund

To/From London

Dolphin watching

Sossusvlei Sand dunes

– SHILLING FAMILY

Namib Carnivore Conservation Centre

When to Go

1 Overnight flight to Windhoek via J’burg. 2

Arrive Windhoek.

3 Drive to Namib Desert via Solitaire village. 4 Sossusvlei – climb/sand-board down dunes.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

5 Skeleton Coast; visit Namib Carnivore Conservation Centre. 6

Swakopmund; dolphin-watching cruise.

7 Drive along Skeleton Coast see seals at Cape Cross; drive to Brandberg Mt.

Climate (Windhoek)

8 Trek through Twyfelfontein; drive to Etosha National Park. 9-10

Wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park.

11

Visit to Cheetah Conservation Fund; drive to Waterberg Plateau for wildlife viewing.

12

Travel to Windhoek; Overnight flight to London.

13

Arrive London.

Talk to an expert...

ACCOMMODATIOn Guesthouse (4 nights)

01962 737 560

Camping (7 nights)

0845 051 4567

meals

11 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 8 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with South African Airways via Johannesburg

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

travel by

Safari bus • Boat • On foot

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

from Adult £1,579 Child £1,099

Adult £2,799 Child £2,099

Approx. £80 per family (if required)

£

Play in Namibia’s biggest sandpit!

what to do next

fact file

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

h Travel wit a group of families...

Watch elephants, lions and rhinos drink at a water-hole Go dolphin watching Visit a cheetah sanctuary Sleep in the Namib desert

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35


Top Trip

11 days

TRIP CODE: FTHM

Meet the kids at Kerege

This trip takes you right off the beaten track to see the real Africa. Travel to Saadani National Park to enjoy some bush and beach time. Then travel on an African train and venture deep into the incredible Selous Game Reserve – the largest in Africa and full of wildlife. Learn about the elephant collaring project and meet the kids at Kerege Children’s Home. Fly across to the spice island of Zanzibar. Before returning home, why not extend your stay in Zanzibar for more time to enjoy its beautiful white sandy beaches.

age guideline ::

See Tanzania’s abundant wildlife

This trip is a great mixture of beach and wildlife, staying in comfortable guesthouses, hotels, luxurious fixed tents and stone cottages. Spend a night in the ‘Roof of Saadani’ – a 20m viewing tower, with a master double and twin room, small restaurant and bar, located in the heart of the animal activity.

was incredible! ‘‘ITanzania loved the whole experience

and I’ll never forget the welcome from the children at Kerege. – H ANNAH W.

WITH POOL

‘‘

Overnight flight to Dar es Salaam.

2 Arrive Dar; transfer to beach hotel.

h Travel wit a group of families... See amazing wildlife on safari Ride on an old African train Spend a night in the ‘Roof of Saadani’

3 Transfer to Saadani National Park and visit to Kerege Children’s Home.

16

Chill out on the Swahili coastline

KENYA

To & From London

TANZANIA CHINA Saadani National Park

ZANZIBAR Stone Town

Bagamoyo

Kerege Children’s Home

Dar es Salaam

Selous Game Reserve Sable Mountain

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

5 Wildlife viewing; Wami River boat safari. 6 Train to Selous; transfer to lodge.

Climate (Dar es Salaam)

7 Early am walking safari; pm free with optional wildlife viewing or visit Masai village. 8 Wildlife viewing; Lake Tagalala boat safari. 9 Transfer to airstrip and fly to Zanzibar; free time to explore Stone Town. 10 Morning free and transfer to airport; overnight flight home 11

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

Arrive London.

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Beach bungalows (3 nts)

Fixed tents or stone cottages (3 nts) Hotel (2 nts)

Play on the beach Stay on the exotic Spice Island of Zanzibar

36

to

4 Elephant collaring project; wildlife viewing.

Visit a children’s orphanage

Share your photos, stories and views... www.facebook.com/familiesworldwide

7

(aged 18)

Your ITINERARY 1

approx.

Q

SWAHILI COAST & safari

Q

Africa :: Tanzania & ZANZIBAR

meals

7 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Ethiopian Airlines or Kenyan Airways

travel by

On foot • Light Aircraft Boat • Train • 4WD

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

from Adult £1,699 Child £1,399

Adult £2,599 Child £2,149

Included

£

(+ National Park fees)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Extend your stay on the ‘Spice Island’ of Zanzibar. Tour around this historic island, take an evening dhow sail, snorkel with dolphins or simply unwind by the pool.

Please contact us for prices and more info.


AFRICA :: KENYA age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

16

RIFT VALLEY EXPLORER

11 days

TRIP CODE: FKRV

Close encounters with Africa’s wildlife

Learn bushcraft with the local Masai

Meet some friendly giants on safari NORTH KOREA

This is not just a safari; it’s a fantastic learning experience about Africa for the whole family, with the opportunity to find out about its natural history and with a rare insight into the way of life of the Masai.

SOUTH KOREA

Lake Nakuru Flamingos

CHINA Lake Naivasha

Q

This is Kenya adventure-style, camping in great locations. A few days of long drives as the roads can be bumpy, but a great opportunity to see a variety of wildlife and landscapes and to learn about how the Masai have lived for generations in harmony with their surroundings.

To & From London

Mt Kenya

KENYA

Boat trip

Nairobi

Giraffe Centre Elephant Orphanage

10 year-old grandson ‘‘saidMy‘Grandpa, I can’t

Masai Mara NP Game viewing

imagine a better safari than we’ve had; so now I never need to go on safari again!’.

‘‘

This holiday is amazing value for money. It explores the diversity of Kenya’s landscapes and wildlife: incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli National Park; the serene beauty of the Rift Valley lakes, with its flamingo-filled Lake Nakuru; the grassy plains of the Masai Mara, teeming with game; and the beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal clear sea along the Mombasa coast (optional extension).

Amboseli NP

TANZANIA

Mt Kilimanjaro

– MOORE FAMILY

Your ITINERARY 1

WITH POOL

Fly to Nairobi.

2 Nairobi. Visit Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre.

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

3/4 Amboseli National Park; game drives; visit a Masai village. 5

Lake Naivasha; game viewing.

6

Lake Nakuru National Park – see flamingos.

Climate (Nairobi)

7–9 Game viewing in the Masai Mara; visit a local school and meet a Masai elder.

Feed a giraffe

10 Drive to Nairobi; overnight flight to London. 11

Arrive London.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel 1 night

Camping 7 nights

£

from

meals

8 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Scheduled flights from Heathrow with Kenya Airways

travel by

Safari Minibus • Boat On foot

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £1,099 Child £999

Adult £1,949 Child £1,649

Approx. £40 per family (if required)

(+ National Park fees)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

h Travel wit a group of families...

Extend your stay on Mombassa’s beautiful Nyali Beach. Relax at the beach-side pool or enjoy activities such as windsurfing, sailing, diving and snorkelling.

See Kilimanjaro – the highest mountain in Africa Go on safari and sleep in the bush! See lions in the wild Watch thousands of flamingos Learn bushcraft secrets from a Masai elder

Please contact us for prices and more info.

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37


africa :: tanzania See wildlife in the Serengeti

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Tanzania is one of Africa’s best loved family destinations, with one of the greatest wildlife migrations on earth and a fabulous coastline on the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. The Serengeti is famous for its annual migration between May and July, and makes a great wildlife and safari destination all year round.

Go on safari

Discover the secrets of Arusha Serengeti

Ngorongoro Crater

Lake Manyara

Arusha National Park Mt Kilimanjaro Saadani Zanzibar

The Ngorongoro Crater has one of the largest concentrations of animals in the world – fabulous for game viewing on safari.

Stone Town

Dar es Salaam Nestled between Mt Meru and Kilimanjaro, the Arusha National Park is abundant with bird and animal life.

See tree-climbing lions

Discover delightful Saadani

Spend extra time on Zanzibar Island We recommend that you extend your holiday to relax on Zanzibar’s beaches... explore the coral reefs, dive into the sea and ride on a banana-boat. The perfect post-safari chill out!

Lake Manyara is home to treeclimbing lions and is a magnet for birdlife, including large flocks of flamingos.

The Perfect Itinerary? Our experts have put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Tanzania. But of course – it’s your trip, so let us help you design a holiday that’s just right for you and your family. Days 1/2 Overnight flight to Arusha for game viewing. Days 3/4 Tarangire NP game viewing. Day 5 Lake Manyara NP game viewing. Days 6/7 Ngorongoro Crater game viewing. Days 8–10 Serengeti game viewing. Day 11 Fly to Zanzibar and

38

Stay in an exclusive thatched ‘banda’ on the white sand beaches of Tanzania’s exotic Swahili coast with abundant wildlife nearby.

explore Stone Town. Days 12–15 Chill out on the beach. Days 16–17 Overnight flight to London.

Talk to an expert

best time to go

0845 051 4567

Travel May–Jul to see the great migration. Tanzania is hot and dry Jan–Mar, hot and wet Apr–Jun, warm and dry Jul–Oct and warm and wet Nov–Dec.

GUIDE prices

(See page 78)

• From £2,749 per adult / £2,599 per child • Based on 1 child sharing with 2 adults • Including flights from London

01962 737 560 See page 36 for details of our group trip with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Tanzania.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk


Africa :: Kenya Meet the Masai people

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Kenya offers the classic safari experience – grassy plains teeming with game followed by palm-fringed, white sandy beaches with warm turquoise seas – an ideal adventure! Find out about the Masai’s semi-nomadic lifestyle, and learn bush tracking and spear throwing skills. Feed a giraffe

Go on a balloon safari

Rift Valley

See baby rhinos and elephants at the Daphne Sheldrick orphanage and feed the rare Rothschild giraffe (pictured).

Lake Nakuru Lake Naivasha Masai Mara

Mount Kenya Nairobi

Amboseli National Park

See the famous Masai Mara

Float across the magnificent plains of the Masai Mara for a unique perspective.

Chill out on the coast

Mombasa

Discover Amboseli NP

It’s one of the smallest parks, but with incredible views of the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro and home to a wide variety of wildlife.

Probably the most famous reserve in Africa. Gentle rolling open grasslands ensure great game viewing. Stay in amazing locations

The expert’s view

Kenya’s great migration is between July and September, but some choose to visit in the wet season when there are fewer visitors and beautiful sunsets.

It’s your trip!

Choose from a variety of familyfriendly lodges and camps with superb wildlife guides.

Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Kenya. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Enjoy Kenya’s finest palmfringed beaches, with excellent opportunities for snorkelling, diving and game fishing.

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See page 37 for details of our group trip with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Kenya.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

39


OMAN

Dolphins & Dunes NEW 41

JORDAN Build Your Own Trip Crusaders & Camels

EGYPT

Feluccas & Pyramids Nile Cruise Build Your Own Trip

y Our guide was friendl made and informative, and sure there was plenty of time for play and n adventure. The childre s. loved riding the animal

‘‘

‘‘

Middle East

SLEY FAM ILIES – DUE RDE N, GAM MON & DOD

42 43 44 45 46–47

SYRIA

MEDITERRA

NEAN SEA

LEBANON ISRAEL

LIBYA

JORDAN

RED

EGYPT

IRAQ

SEA

SAUDI ARABIA

NIGER

OMAN CHAD SUDAN YEMEN

SOMALIA ETHIOPIA

Don’t forget!

Booking early often means cheaper flights and more convenient depar ture dates.

40

ARABIAN SEA


MIDDLE EAST :: OMAN age guideline ::

approx.

7

to

war nheis ye

16

See the amazing Wadi Shab

WITH POOL

Overnight flight to Muscat.

2 Relax; afternoon optional city/souk tour. 3 Jebal Akhdal – Oman’s green mountain.

Enjoy adventure, activities and cultural experiences in the friendliest country in Arabia, including two nights in a traditional Bedouin camp and one night camping on the beach. The Omani’s warmth and hospitality is well-known – you will arrive as a guest and depart as a friend.

‘‘

Star gazing in the desert was amazing! I thought I would detest the camping – but it took me right back to being a kid again.

‘‘

Your ITINERARY

Spot dolphins in the Gulf of Oman

6 Splash in waterpools of Wadi Bani Khalid; visit Sur & evening trip to turtle beach 7 Dhow cruise; explore Wadi Shab, the hidden cave and sleep on the beach! 8 Morning dolphin & snorkeling tour; afternoon visit to the souks. 9

Fly to London

Muscat SOUTH Jebel Shams

Dolphin watching KOREA

Oman’s ‘Grand Canyon’

CHINA

Jebel Akhdar

Green mountain

Nizwa

Fins

Beach camping

KENYA

Sur

17th century fort

OMAN

Dhow Cruise

Wahiba Sands

Sand dunes & camp

Wadi Bani Khalid

Water pools

Ras Al Hadd

Turtles

– B. READ

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

4 Jebal Shams – Oman’s ‘Grand Canyon’. 5 Explore Nizwa and the 17th century fort; drive to the red sand dunes of Wahiba Sharqiyah and camp under the stars.

NORTH KOREA

AN

Float along the coast in a dhow and admire the views of this unique and beautiful country.

Enjoy a camel trek

OM

Enjoy dolphin-watching and snorkeling, swim to hidden caves, watch turtles, ride camels in the desert, go sand boarding and make a splash in the waterpools of Wadi Barn Khalid.

TRIP CODE: FODD

OF

It has much to offer to a family of adventurers, with beautiful mountain scenery, sweeping wadis, vast deserts and historic old forts.

Dolphins & Dunes

LF GU

Oman is an exciting and vibrant destination with a great climate and beautiful beaches, and is one of the oldest civilisations on the Arabian Peninsula.

1

9 days

t

Av. Min temp ˚C

40

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

240

30

180

Climate (Muscat)

20

120

10 0

300

60

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

what to do next

0

h Travel wit a group of families... Cruise on a traditional dhow Enjoy the thrill of a four wheel drive trip in the desert

Talk to an expert...

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (5 nts), Camping (3nts)

£

from

meals

8 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Scheduled flights with Oman Air (see pages 78–79)

travel by

4WD • Minibus • On foot Dhow • Boat • Camel

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £1,399 Child £1,299

Adult £2,149 Child £1,899

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Sleep under the stars Bedouin style Go dolphin watching Snorkel in warm tropical waters Ride camels across the dunes

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41


middle east :: jordan Visit the lost city of Petra

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. If travelling with kids is about bringing learning to life, then Jordan has much to offer – history, geography and science, but also the magic of adventure. Emerge through a narrow col to discover the secrets of this lost city, carved out of the pink sandstone rock.

Float in the Dead Sea

See a Roman chariot race

Jerash Amman Dead Sea Kerak

Crusader Castle

Enjoy the unusual experience of floating in the warm waters of the Dead Sea.

Petra

See the dust fly as the horses race around the arena in a daring duel in ancient Jerash.

Wadi Rum Aqaba

Visit a Crusaders’ Castle

Red Sea

Explore Kerak’s hill-top castle – a magnificent example of Crusader architecture dating back to around 1140 AD.

Camp in Wadi Rum

Go snorkelling in the Red Sea Aqaba is a great destination for snorkelling in the warm blue waters of the Red Sea.

Experience crystal clear starlit nights in a Bedouin-style camp amidst the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Ride a camel in the desert

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See page 43 for details of our group trip with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Jordan.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

42

The expert’s view

Jordan is a fascinating country which we recommend visiting during spring and autumn when the days are warm (24+°C) and the nights are cool.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Jordan. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Discover Jordan’s stunning desert landscapes and ancient past from camel-back.


middle east :: jordan approx.

5

to

Top Trip

16

Ride through the desert

See the superb Roman remains in Jerash and explore the incredible temples of Petra, with the highlight of your journey almost certainly the desert landscape of Wadi Rum – where the movie Lawrence of Arabia was filmed. You’ll spend your time in this fantastic wilderness on jeep safaris, camel trekking and star-gazing from your Bedouin-style camp, snorkelling amongst the colourful coral in exotic Aqaba, and, towards the end of this amazing adventure, enjoy floating in the Dead Sea.

1

WITH POOL

Fly to Amman.

2 Visit ancient Roman city of Jerash. Drive to Madaba.

Explore the temples of Petra

Jordan is an easy country to travel in, with good roads, comfortable hotels and friendly people. The travelling distances are relatively short (a maximum of 4 hours). Our stay in the desert at Wadi Rum is in a remote area with simple, ecofriendly facilities.

Full Day visit to Petra with walks.

had. Petra and the whole experience was fantastic!

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Amman)

style desert camp (1 night)

£

from

meals

7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 evening meal included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Royal Jordanian or Easyjet

travel by

Minibus • 4WD Camel • On foot

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £729 Child £699

Adult £1,149 Child £1,099

Approx. £85 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Petra

Indiana Jones’ Temple of Doom!

Wadi Rum Aqaba

Lawrence of Arabia, Desert camp

h Travel wit a group of families... Float in the Dead Sea

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (6 nights), Bedouin-

Crusader castle

When to Go

7 Take the King’s Highway to the Dead Sea. Afternoon free.

fact file

Dead Sea

– OATES FAMILY

6 Optional camel trek; drive to Aqaba on the Red Sea coast.

Return flight to London.

To/From London

Amman Madaba

Mt Nebo

loved Wadi Rum and ‘‘theWefreedom that the kids

5 Drive to Bedouin camp at Wadi Rum for 4WD desert adventure.

8

Jerash

Jordan River

Kerak

3 Visit Mount Nebo and Kerak Crusader castle. Continue to Petra. 4

crusaders & camels TRIP CODE: FJJD

Meet the Crusaders

An action-packed adventure, but set in a relaxed environment with wonderful food and friendly, hospitable hosts.

Your ITINERARY

8 days

‘‘

age guideline ::

Extend your trip to Aqaba on the Red Sea. Relax on the beach and experience the warm seas and coral reefs with good diving and snorkelling opportunities. Sailing is also possible.

Ride a camel Explore ancient castle dungeons Sleep under the stars in a Bedouin camp Ride in a jeep across the desert See Roman legionaries and gladiators in action

Please contact us for prices and more info.

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43


middle east :: egypt

feluccas & pyramids

9 days

age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

16

TRIP CODE: FEFP

Egypt is a great year-round destination. See the pyramids, the Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum. Enjoy the excitement of sleeping on an overnight train, riding camels in the desert, relaxing and exploring the delightful town of Aswan, sailing on a traditional felucca slowly down the Nile, and taking a donkey ride through local villages to the impressive Valley of the Kings.

This is a fun and active journey. Most children know a little about ancient Egypt from school and this will really bring it all to life. Life on the felucca is simple, but fascinating – and very relaxing! Life-jackets are provided.

the best holiday ever ‘‘andI had saw lots of things I’ll

Sinai

Red Sea Extension

Hurghada Makadi Bay

Luxor

Valley of the Kings Karnak Temple

SE

Felucca sailtrek

A

never forget. Our guide, Saif was brilliant. I still talk about my holiday today.

To/From London

Cairo

Pyramids, museums & bazaars

‘‘

Aswan

Camel trek

D

These are just a few highlights of this fun-filled and varied trip. If you have time, we recommend a few days on the beach for some snorkelling in the Red Sea.

Sail down the Nile on a felucca

Ride camels in the desert

RE

Discover the secrets of the pyramids

Lake Nasser

– MORGAN (Aged 8)

Your ITINERARY 1

WITH POOL

Fly to Cairo.

2 Cairo; visit pyramids & Egyptian Museum. Overnight train to Aswan.

h Travel wit a group of families... Explore inside the pyramids Shop and haggle in a real bazaar Sleep on an overnight train

4 Sail felucca on Nile and sleep on board. 5

Visit Kom Ombo Temple; arrive Luxor.

6

Donkey ride; visit Valley of the Kings.

7

Luxor; free day to explore.

8

Fly to Cairo; rest of day to explore.

9

Fly to London.

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

(1 night), sleeper train (1 night) meals

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 3 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA, Easyjet and Egypt Air

travel by

Minibus • Donkey • On foot Calesh • Train • Plane • Felucca

Ride a camel Take the helm of a felucca sail boat down the Nile

£

from

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £649 Child £629

Adult £1,249 Child £1,149

Approx. £35 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Climate (Cairo)

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

fact file

Learn Egyptian hieroglyphics

44

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

3 Aswan; visit bazaar; optional camel trek into desert. Nubian evening.

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (6 nights), felucca

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When to Go

Extend your holiday in Hurghada or the lesser-known Makadi Bay. Take a cruise, go snorkelling or scuba-diving, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches.

Please contact us for prices and more info.


middle east :: egypt age guideline ::

approx.

5*

to

16

9 days

nile cruise TRIP CODE: FENC

See the treasures of Tutankhamun

Enjoy a Nile Cruise; visiting the pyramids at Giza, be dazzled by the treasures of Tutankhamun, wander through colourful bazaars, discover ancient Karnak, ride a donkey, visit the Valley of the Kings, relax in delightful Aswan, sleep on an overnight train...

Accommodation is in hotels, an overnight train and on a comfortable cruise boat. There’s no strenuous activity! Please be aware that small children will need close supervision when on the cruise boat upper deck.

Fly to Cairo.

2 Cairo; see pyramids & Tutankhamun’s treasures. Overnight train to Aswan. 3–5 Optional camel trek. Then board boat for 3-night Nile cruise to Luxor. Visit Edfu and Kom Ombo temples en route. 6

‘‘

1

WITH POOL

9

Fly to London.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Cairo)

Talk to an expert...

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (4 nights), sleeper train

(1 night), cruise boat (3 nights)

£

from

meals

8 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA, Easyjet and Egypt Air

travel by

Minibus • Train • Plane Donkey • Cruise Boat • Calesh

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £829 Child £799

Adult £1,399 Child £1,299

Approx. £35 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple Nile cruise

Aswan

Camel trek

Lake Nasser

h Travel wit a group of families... Go on a classic Nile cruise

what to do next

fact file

Makadi Bay

Luxor

When to Go

7 Calesh ride to Karnak Temple; free afternoon to explore. Fly to Cairo; rest of day to explore.

Hurghada

– COWARD FAMILY

Luxor; donkey ride, visit Valley of the Kings.

8

Red Sea Extension

A

Your ITINERARY

Sinai

SE

*Please note that children as young as 2 years-old have travelled on this trip and are welcome aboard!

all times. Everything was very well organised and the holiday offered a great variety of trips and modes of transport.

To/From London

D

We also highly recommend that you extend your stay on the Red Sea coast where you can snorkel with tropical fish on coral reefs – an opportunity not to be missed!

guide, Hos, was superb ‘‘andOurwent that extra mile at

Cairo

Pyramids, museums & bazaars

RE

And, the highlight for all is the three days spent on a Nile cruise boat, seeing temples and traditional village life along the way.

Explore temples and pyramids

Cruise down the ancient Nile River

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

See a real Egyptian mummy! Ride a camel and a donkey Sleep on an overnight train Learn Egyptian hieroglyphics See the ancient pyramids Shop and haggle in the bazaar

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45


middle east :: egypt

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family.

Learn about Pharaohs Learn about King Tutankhamun and the Pharaohs as you explore the Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo and Karnak Temple in your very own Indiana Jones-style adventure

Egypt is our most popular family destination – there aren’t many places in the world where you can combine the fun of riding camels and donkeys with learning about the ancient wonders of the world.

‘‘

A wonderful trip and our guide, Mohammed was fantastic.

Enjoy a classic Nile cruise

He was very knowledgeable on Egyptology, has kids of his own so knows what that’s like, and was just friendly and helpful all along.

With so many beautiful and family-friendly cruise ships with on-board swimming pools available, you can really travel in style down the Nile, stopping on the way to see the sites, as well as relaxing and having fun as you travel.

We love the simple things like the meal at a local family house in Aswan and making a fire on the banks of the Nile. – MANLEY FAMILY

‘‘

Climate (Cairo)

The expert’s view The best time of year to visit Egypt is between autumn and spring (Oct–Apr) when the days are normally warm to hot and the nights mild or occasionally cool. Humidity is very low and there is little or no rain. During the winter months (Dec–Feb) it can be cool on the Nile, particularly in the early mornings and evenings, so warm clothes are essential. During the summer (Jun–Aug) it's hot, but the lack of humidity makes the heat easier to bear.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Egypt. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

46

Go camel trekking in Aswan Explore the world of the ancient Egyptians with a camel-back trek in the desert near Aswan, Egypt's oldest town.

Swim in the Red Sea Spend some time relaxing by the Red Sea – soak up the sunshine, play on the beach or go snorkelling and discover a myriad of colourful marine life.


middle east :: egypt Explore the ancient pyramids

See the pyramids – and maybe even climb inside one! Visit Mount Sinai Explore St Catherine's Monastery, where Moses saw the burning bush, and walk up Mount Sinai to watch the sunrise.

Cairo

Pyramids, museum, bazaar

Mount Sinai

Sharm el Sheikh Makadi Bay

Luxor

Valley of the Kings & Karnak Temple

Red Sea

Snorkel at Sharm el Sheikh

Aswan

Stay in great places Egypt has some superb family-friendly, luxury hotels in great locations – we aim to stay at hotels with swimming pools wherever possible.

Float down the Nile in a felucca Spend the day gently floating down the Nile in your own felucca with crew – a great way to chill out and enjoy Egypt from a different perspective.

Reputed to be one of the best places to snorkel and dive, with warm waters offering a variety of tropical fish and coral.

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See pages 44–45 for details of our group trips with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Egypt.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

47


Asia Taj & Tigers Backwaters of Kerala Build Your Own Trip

SRI LANKA Build Your Own Trip Ceylon Discovery

NEPAL Build Your Own Trip Himalayan Adventure

‘‘ 49 50 51 52 53

‘‘

INDIA

We loved riding the giriya elephants, climbing Si and the safari in Yala ds. where we saw two leopar We would recommend Sri Lanka to anyone. – CLAR K FAM ILY

54 55

IRAN

AFGHANISTAN CHINA PAKISTAN

NEPAL OMAN

BHUTAN BANGLADESH

INDIA

MYANMAR

ARABIAN SEA BAY OF BENGAL

SRI LANKA

Don’t forget!

Booking early often means cheaper flights and more convenient depar ture dates.

48


ASIA :: INDIA age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

16

taj & tigers

11 days

TRIP CODE: FITT

Discover the amazing Taj Mahal

Discover temples and a maze of alleyways in Old Delhi’s traditional bazaar. See the beautifully painted havelis (private mansions) in Nawalgarh and take a ride on one of the decorated tuk-tuks. Then see the delight on the faces of your children as they see their first tiger in the wild at Ranthambhore. You’ll also explore the atmospheric Pink City of Jaipur, and the deserted Moghul City of Fatehpur Sikri, and finally, be amazed by the tranquility of the world’s most beautiful building – the Taj Mahal.

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Delhi.

2

Arrive Delhi. Afternoon visit Old Delhi.

3

Drive to Surajgarh; camel-cart safari.

4

Continue to Nawalgarh; visit local school.

5 Drive to Jaipur; Bollywood film and shadow puppet show. 6

Visit Amber Fort with elephant ride.

7

Drive to Ranthambhore National Park.

8

Wildlife viewing in Ranthambhore NP.

9

Drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri.

Accommodation and transport is comfortable, but just be prepared for a little ‘culture shock’ and remember to pack a smile and a positive attitude. If you have young children, we leave it for you to decide whether you think they will enjoy the cultural delights of this vibrant country. You know your kids best!

‘‘

The Taj Mahal at first light was amazing, and seeing a tiger was incredible – it made our holiday.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Delhi)

fact file

Talk to an expert...

01962 737 560

£

from

0845 051 4567

9 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 5 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA, Jet Airways and Air India

travel by

Train • Minibus • Camel-cart Jeep • Elephant • Rickshaw

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £699 Child £669

Adult £1,579 Child £1,479

Approx. £25 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Agra

Taj Mahal Deserted city

Ranthambhore NP Tiger safari

h Travel wit a group of families... See a tiger in the wild

what to do next

meals

Pink City Elephant ride

When to Go

To tailor this trip please contact us for details.

(9 nights)

Jaipur

– BLOOMFIELD FAMILY

Fly to London.

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels

Nawalgarh

To/ From London

Fatehpur Sikri

10 Taj Mahal at sunrise. Train to Delhi. 11

Surajgarh

Delhi

‘‘

Enjoy the intense sights, sounds and smells of North India on an unforgettable family trip.

Look for tigers in the jungle

Explore Indian palaces

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Shop and haggle in a real bazaar Ride on a camel-cart Explore a Pink City! Visit an Indian school Discover a deserted city Ride in a cycle rickshaw

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49


ASIA :: INDIA

backwaters of kerala

Top Trip

12 days

TRIP CODE: FIBS

The state of Kerala, in India’s warm, tranquil south, is both fascinating and exotic. In Kochi you’ll learn about the bizarre rituals of the Kathakali dancers and watch traditional Chinese net-fishing. Then a change of scene at the old British Hill Station of Munnar, set in the cool Western Ghats, and the temples of Madurai, steeped in tradition. At Periyar you’ll see herds of wild elephant, then relax as you cruise the tranquil backwaters of Malabar’s rivers and lakes by converted rice-barge. We recommend you extend your trip to enjoy the wonderful beaches of Mararikulam.

Cruise on the tranquil backwaters

The south of India is more relaxed than the more frantic north and makes for easier travel. Hotels are of a good standard. Travelling can be slow at times but distances covered are not overly long and there is always something to interest children of all ages.

‘‘

5

to

16

Visit a tea plantation

INDIA Elephant training camp Munnar Hill Station To/ From London

Tea plantation

Madurai

Sri Meenakshi Temple

Kochi

Fort Cochin

We loved learning about the tea plantations, how rubber is made and washing an elephant. The stay on the houseboat was great!

approx.

Periyar NP

Mararikulam

Elephants Learn to cook

Beach extension

Boat trip on backwaters

‘‘

Visit an elephant training camp

age guideline ::

– THOMAS FAMILY

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

1/2

Fly Kochi. Sunset walk; see Chinese net-fishing.

3

Kochi city tour; Kathakali dance.

4 Drive to Munnar Hill Station via elephant training camp.

h Travel wit a group of families... Sleep on board a traditional Indian houseboat

5

Visit village and tea factory.

6/7

Visit Madurai; get blessed by an elephant.

11

Drive to Kochi. Afternoon free.

12

Fly to London.

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Kochi)

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (9 nights)

Rice barge (1 night)

Watch how tea is made on a tea plantation Get blessed by an elephant

50

EASTER HOLIDAYS

10 Drive to Alleppey. Houseboat backwaters cruise to villages and rice paddies.

See wild elephants in Periyar

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM

8/9 Drive to Periyar National Park. Cookery lesson; Kerala martial arts; wildlife spotting.

Learn to cook a yummy curry! Meet the Kathakali dancers

When to Go

£

from

meals

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 evening meal included

FLIGHTs

Scheduled flights from Heathrow with Jet Airways via Mumbai

travel by

Minibus • Rice barge • Boat Elephant • On foot • Rickshaw

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £799 Child £769

Adult £1,699 Child £1,599

Approx. £40 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Extend your stay at Mararikulam. Enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean: the bungalow-style accommodation is right on the beach!

Please contact us for prices and more info.


ASIA :: INDIA Go on a tiger safari

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Discover the majesty of India – explore ancient forts and palaces, search for tigers in the jungle, chill out in the sleepy hill stations and relax on beautiful beaches. See the delight on your children’s faces as they spot their first tiger at Ranthambhore National Park. Explore a Pink City!

See the Taj Mahal Delhi Jaipur

Agra

Pink city

Taj Mahal

Fatehpur Sikri Deserted city

Ranthambhore National Park Explore the Palace of Winds in Jaipur, painted pink in 1876, and ride an elephant to the colourful Amber Fort. Stay on a houseboat

Mumbai

Munnar Kerala

The expert’s view

Best time for northern India is during their spring and autumn. Best time for southern India is Oct–Mar. The summer monsoon eases in August.

It’s your trip!

Stimulate your senses in the spice markets, taking in the exotic colours and aromas.

Bathe an elephant

Learn to cook a curry Enjoy a cookery lesson and learn to make authentic Indian dishes – and enjoy eating them too!

Enjoy a day or two floating along the Malabar backwaters of Kerala on your own traditional houseboat. Walk through spice markets

No visit to India would be complete without a visit to the beautiful Taj Mahal in Agra.

Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of India. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Bathe an elephant or ride one on safari in search of wildlife.

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See pages 49–50 for details of our group trips with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in India.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

51


ASIA :: SRI LANKA See herds of wild elephant at Uda Walawe National Park

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Sri Lanka offers families a great year-round destination packed with interesting history and culture, active sports, a variety of wildlife and stunning beaches. Visit the Elephant Transit Home at Uda Walawe National Park – learn about the conservation project and help bathe an elephant.

Go white-water rafting

Enjoy the beach

Habarana

Sigiriya

Elephant safari

Rock fortress

Kalpitiya

Dolphin watching

Polonnaruwa

Dambulla

Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Kelani River, Kitulgala.

Monkey sanctuary

Cave temple

Kandy

Temple of the Tooth

Spot whales and dolphins

Kitulgala Colombo

White-water rafting

Yala National Park

Relax on a beautiful palmfringed beach overlooking the ocean with superb snorkelling and diving opportunities.

Wildlife safari

Uda Walawe National Park Mirissa

See wildlife in Yala NP

Elephant research centre

Whale & dolphin watching

Visit a primate research centre Blue and sperm whales and dolphins can often be sighted between December and August.

Spend time with the research team tracking monkeys in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and learning about endangered species.

Yala National Park has a variety of ecosystems – see leopards, elephants, antelopes, buffaloes, crocodiles and turtles. Venture past the lion’s claws

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See page 53 for details of our group trip with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Sri Lanka.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

52

The expert’s view

The best time to visit the west coast is from October to mid-April to avoid the monsoons, while the south-east receives little rain throughout the year.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Sri Lanka. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Venture into the Lion Rock Fortress at Sigiriya to explore the remains of the royal citadel.


ASIA :: SRI LANKA age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

16

15 days

ceylon discovery TRIP CODE: FSCD

Sri Lanka is an island of enormous variety with its amazing history of early Buddhism, its lush green forests and jungle, cool highlands, ornate temples and wonderful food. But what visitors remember most are the people – amongst the friendliest in Asia.

Ride elephants in Habarana

A good introduction to Asia for ‘first-timers’. Accommodation and transport is comfortable. The people of Sri Lanka are extremely friendly and will make you feel very welcome.

‘‘

You can extend or tailor this trip especially for your family – please contact us for details.

Your ITINERARY

When to Go

1/2

WITH POOL

Fly to Colombo. Relax on the beach.

3–5 Dambulla Temple & Polonnaruwa ancient city. Hiriwauna Village; elephant-back safari, cycle ride and cooking with villagers. 6 Drive to Sigiriya; climb rock and fortress. Visit Spice Garden. Drive to Kandy. See Kandyan dance and meet the dancers! 7 Visit Pinnawela elephant orphanage. Kandy city tour.

‘‘

Oh, and don’t forget those palm-fringed, uncrowded beaches with their outrigger canoes and stilt fishermen. Paradise!

Drive via Ella to Uda Walawe NP; jeep safari.

11

Continue to Ahangama on south coast.

12/13 Beach; optional whale-watching and visit to Galle by train. 14/15 Drive to Colombo. Overnight flight to London.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Colombo)

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (10 nights)

Fixed camp (2 nights) meals

12 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 5 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with BA, Sri Lankan Airlines or Jet Airways

travel by

Minibus • Bicycle • Elephant Bullock cart • On foot

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

from Adult £1,099 Child £1,049

Adult £1,749 Child £1,649

Approx. £50 arrival only per family (if required)

£

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Sigiriya

Rock fortress

Pinnawela

Colombo Elephant

orphanage

Kandy

Temple of the Tooth

Nuwara Eliya

Tea plantation

Uda Walawe NP Elephants

Galle

Ahangama Beach stay

INDIAN OCEAN

h Travel wit a group of families... Explore the Temple of the Tooth

what to do next Talk to an expert...

fact file

Polonnaruwa Dambulla

– ROBSON FAMILY

8 Train through hills to Nuwara Eliya; visit Tea Plantation Factory. 9/10

To/From London

Uswetakeiyawa

Sri Lanka was perfect for our first adventure in Asia – it didn’t fail to amaze and the children loved every minute of it, especially the beaches!

Our trip will allow for plenty of interaction with the local people, enabling you to learn about their culture, dance, clothes, customs, religion and food.

Relax on the beach at Ahangama

Q

Learn to cook a Sri Lankan dish

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Meet a local dancer and learn a Sri Lankan dance Dress up in a sari Ride an elephant Learn to cook a local dish Have fun on the beach

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53


ASIA :: Nepal Stay in amazing locations

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Nepal is a great family destination – tigers and elephants in Chitwan, the Himalayan Mountain range, palaces, temples and the culture of the friendly Nepalese people. Relax in superb, family-friendly accommodation, such as the Fishtail Lodge (pictured above) with pool and great views.

Go on safari in Chitwan NP

Take a flight over Everest

Annapurna Mountain Range Head into the jungle in search of one-horned rhino, crocodile and tiger from the vantage point of an elephant’s back.

Pokhara Himalayas Chitwan

Mount Everest Kathmandu

National Park

Go white-water rafting

A once-in-a-lifetime experience – fly over these magnificent mountains (one-hour flights daily from Kathmandu). Stay at a Himalayan cottage

See tigers in Chitwan Nepal offers rafting experiences from easy day-trips to a full 12-night expedition!

Look for a variety of wildlife – the sloth bear, Asian elephant and even the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

Chill out in the Himalayan foothills at the Shivapuri Heights Cottage.

Go trekking in the mountains

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See page 55 for details of our group trip with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Nepal.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

54

The expert’s view

The best times to visit Nepal are Oct–Dec when the mountain air is clear and fresh, or Feb–Apr when the climate remains dry and fresh.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Nepal. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Enjoy the many shorter, familyfriendly routes which avoid the high passes.


ASIA :: NEPAL age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

16

13 days

himalayan adventure TRIP CODE: FNHA

Meet the locals

Experience a mini-trek

This classic Himalayan adventure is sure to take your breath away.

A brilliant itinerary interspersed with learning experiences for your children about Nepali life – from making pottery to meeting a Sherpa...

Your ITINERARY 1–2

WITH POOL

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

3–4 Walking tour of old Bhaktapur. Pottery making. Farm stay in Nuwakot. 5 Drive to Trisuli Centre; village visit; rafting. 6

‘‘

Our best memories were meeting a Sherpa who had been to the top of Everest, the breathtaking views of the mountains, and the jungle wildlife.

‘‘

You’ll enjoy a ‘mini-trek’ – a one day expedition into the hills with an overnight camp near a spectacular lookout, visit typical Nepali villages, have a chance to try white-water rafting, and explore the jungle at Chitwan by jeep and from elephant-back.

Annapurna

8 Himalayan sunrise. Walk to Pokhara; party!

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Kathmandu)

10 Continue to Royal Chitwan National Park; elephant-back rhino safari.

Drive to Chitwan airport; fly to Kathmandu.

13

Fly to London.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels or guesthouses

(9 nights), camping (2 nights) meals

11 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Jet Airways and Oman Air

travel by

Minibus • On foot • Raft • Canoe Elephant • Light aircraft • Jeep

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

from Adult £1,099 Child £999

Adult £1,879 Child £1,729

Approx. £35 each way per family (if required)

£

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Game drives

Farm stay

Royal Chitwan NP

Mt Everest

Kathmandu Bhaktapur

Medieval city

To/From London

h Travel wit a group of families... Explore the jungle from the back of an elephant

See wildlife by canoe and on foot.

12

Typical Nepali village

Bharatpur

When to Go

9 Drive to Bandipur village.

11

Nuwakot

Pokhara Bandipur

– R OGERS FAMILY

Continue to Pokhara.

7 Annapurna foothills walk to overnight camp.

Short trek

From wonderful old Kathmandu you’ll be whisked off to a unique and peaceful village to stay on a farm... then onwards to Pokhara to see the incredible views of the famous ‘Fishtail’ – a sacred mountain in the Annapurnas.

Take a break from the rapids

There are a several exciting possibilities for extending your Himalayan Adventure. Experience fascinating Bhutan and Tibet or go on safari in Chitwan National Park.

Go trekking in the Himalayas Haggle for souvenirs in a bazaar Bathe an elephant! Go white-water rafting See rhinos and crocodiles

Please contact us for prices and more info.

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55


South East Asia Rainforests & Islands Build Your Own Trip

her likeminded family, and it was well worth extending our trip to try SCUBA diving.

‘‘

THAILAND

‘‘upItwiwaths anlovotely to meet

57 60

– CALV ERT FAM ILY (THA ILAN D)

THAILAND & VIETNAM

CHINA

Journey Through Indochina NEW 58

VIETNAM Hanoi to Saigon

VIETNAM & CAMBODIA Build Your Own Trip

BALI Build Your Own Trip Paradise Island

BORNEO

Build Your Own Trip

MALAYSIA Build Your Own Trip

MYANMAR

59

LAOS SOUTH CHINA SEA

61

PHILIPPINES

THAILAND VIETNAM CAMBODIA

62 63

BAY OF BENGAL

BRUNEI

64 MALAYSIA

65

MALAYSIA

BORNEO INDIAN OCEAN INDONESIA

Don’t forget!

Booking early often means cheaper flights and more convenient depar ture dates.

56

BALI

INDONESIA


SOUTH EAST asia :: thailand 5

to

Top Trip

16

Ride elephants through the jungle

This trip is simply fantastic! It’s a genuine pleasure to be in exotic Thailand; to enjoy its people, culture and tasty food. Your family will take part in activities that you’ll remember for a lifetime. In Bangkok you’ll explore this vibrant city by tuk-tuk and longtail boat. Taking the overnight train south you’ll stay in a rainforest lodge and explore on foot, then visit tropical islands where you can snorkel in clear, warm waters seeing thousands of iridescent fish and brightly coloured coral, and enjoy pure white sand beaches. Heaven!

Your ITINERARY 1

WITH POOL

Fly to Bangkok.

2/3 Arrive Bangkok and settle in. Tuk-tuk city tour. Sleeper train to Surat Thani. 4/5 Khao Sok NP; rainforest, boating, hiking.

11 days

TRIP CODE: FTRI

Explore remote island beaches

All children learn about rainforests at school these days and their stay in Khao Sok National Park will really bring to life what they already know. And of course they’ll love the sandy beaches, limpid waters and rainbow-coloured tropical fish of Southern Thailand’s islands.

Thailand is perfect for ‘‘families, with amazing

beaches, temples, elephants and fantastic food. We really didn’t want to leave!

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Bangkok)

Travel to Phuket. Gibbon Rehab Centre.

10/11 Fly to Bangkok and on to London. MAY – OCTOBER ITINERARY

6/7

Transfer to Koh Samui; explore island.

8/9

Ferry to Koh Tao; beach, snorkelling.

10

Return to Koh Samui. Fly to London.

11

Arrive London.

NOV–APR Hotels (3nts), resort (4nts), train (1nt) MAY–OCT Hotels (1nt), resort (4nts), lodge (2nts), train (1nt)

meals

8 breakfasts and 4 lunches included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Jet Airways, Emirates and Oman Air

If you have more time available, why not extend your stay on the beautiful islands of Koh Tao or Koh Samui (May–Oct)?

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £899 Child £879

Adult £1,899 Child £1,779

Approx. £50 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

 Surat Thani

To Bangkok

Phuket

Krabi (Ao Nang)

Koh Samui

May to Oct Itinerary

Ao Thalen Bay Sea Kayaking Gibbon Rehab Centre

h Travel wit a group of families...

Go ‘Finding Nemo’ on a coral reef, snorkelling with thousands of fish!

Swim and enjoy fantastic beaches Explore a real rainforest

Minibus • Train • Boat • Ferry Kayak • Tuk-tuk • Elephant • On foot

£

Khao Sok NP Rainforest lodge & elephant riding

Ride in a tuk-tuk

travel by

from

To Bangkok

Koh Tao

Ride an elephant in the jungle

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

fact file

From Bangkok

When to Go

NOVEMBER – APRIL ITINERARY

9

Trek in the rainforest of Khao Sok

– POOLE FAMILY

6/7 Transfer to Ao Nang. Jungle hot springs. 8 Sea kayaking around Ao Thalen Bay.

rainforests & islands

Q

Approx.

‘‘

AGE GUIDELINE ::

Please contact us for prices and more info.

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57


SOUTH EAST asia :: Thailand

&

Vietnam

Journey through Indochina

war nheis ye

16 days

age guideline ::

t

TRIP CODE: FTVJ

Discover the beauty of Halong Bay in Vietnam

Enjoy the beaches and jungles of Krabi. Then to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh), a visit to the Viet Cong Cu Chi Tunnels, and up to the fishing port of Hoi An to the ancient city of Hanoi. Experience a night aboard a traditional junk in Halong Bay, meandering its way through the islands. Then return to Hoi An with free time to explore the city’s Old Quarter.

8

to

Relax on beautiful beaches

Learn about new cultures, experience unique animal encounters, see amazing temples and meet the friendly Thai and Vietnamese people. Accommodation is in comfortable family-friendly hotels, most with pool, and one night aboard a traditional junk. Due to the distances travelled there are a number of internal flights.

VIETNAM

To London

Hanoi Halong Bay

Chiang Mai

Junk cruise

LAOS

THAILAND

An incredible adventure! ‘‘Jungles, temples, caves,

tunnels, elephants... and finally relaxed on the beach!

Hoi An

Old trading town From London

Bangkok

CAMBODIA

‘‘

This holiday showcases some of the highlights of Thailand and Vietnam. Your journey through Indochina takes you from busy Bangkok, up to Northern Thailand to the majestic temples of Chiang Mai, and visit an elephant camp.

approx.

To Krabi/Phuket

Ho Chi Minh City Cu Chi tunnels

From Krabi/Phuket

– S. PALMER

Your ITINERARY 1/2

WITH POOL

Overnight flight to Bangkok.

3 Tuk-tuk city tour; fly to Chiang Mai.

h Travel wit a group of families... Ride an elephant Sleep aboard a traditional junk

4

Visit the temples of Chiang Mai.

5

Elephant camp; ride an elephant!

6

Fly to Krabi – free time on the beach.

7

Explore jungle; take a dip in hot springs.

8

Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre in Phuket NP.

9

Fly to Saigon (Vietnam).

10

Saigon tour including Cu Chi Tunnels.

12

Free day in Hoi An.

13

Fly to Hanoi; city tour inc. visit POW prison!

14

Halong Bay; cruise islands in junk.

15

Return to Hanoi for free time.

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (14 nights)

Traditional junk (1 night)

Explore the jungles in Krabi

58

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Hoi An)

meals

Walk through Viet Cong tunnels

FLIGHTs

Meet some cheeky gibbons

travel by

14 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 evening meal included Flights with BA, Emirates, Vietnam Airlines and Asia Air

Light aircraft • Minibus • Junk Elephant • On foot • Tuk-tuk • Kayak (optional) Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

from Adult £1,699 Child £1,649

Adult £2,699 Child £2,579

Approx. £40 arrival only per family (if required)

£

what to do next Talk to an expert...

fact file

See the temples at Chiang Mai

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM

11 Fly Danang; drive Hoi An – visit Old Town.

16/17 Departure day; overnight flight to London.

Explore the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ - American POW prison

When to Go

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now... Download a detailed Trip Dossier www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

16


South East asia :: vietnam age guideline ::

approx.

5

to

16

12 days

hanoi to saigon TRIP CODE: FVHS

Your ITINERARY Overnight flight to Hanoi.

3

City tour and cyclo ride.

4

Halong Bay cruise on a traditional junk.

5

Return to Hanoi, overnight train to Hue.

6 Hue. Dragon boat to Thien Mu Pagoda & Imperial City. 7

Bus to Hoi An; orientation walking tour.

8

Village visits by bicycle and boat.

9

Fly to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). City tour.

10

Mekong Delta by boat.

11/12 Free time before overnight flight to UK.

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (7 nights)

Train (1 night), Boat (1 night)

£

Hanoi Halong Bay Junk cruise

done any more for us. The children enjoyed the waterpuppet show and boat in Halong Bay the best.

– LAW FAMILY

THAILAND

Hue Imperial capital

Hoi An Old trading town

To London

CAMBODIA

Angkor Wat Extension

To London

Q

Our tour guide was ‘‘fantastic and couldn’t have

Ho Chi Minh City Cu Chi tunnels

Mekong Delta

Boat cruise

When to Go

1/2

from

VIETNAM From London

LAOS

‘‘

Visit the ancient trading town of Hoi An and enjoy the nearby white sand beaches. Cruise gently along the Mekong Delta with its floating markets and have a go at catching fish with the friendly locals.

An exciting trip with a mixture of transport methods, comfortable hotels and time to relax on boats and beaches.

Q

An overnight train journey on the famous Reunification Express takes you to the old imperial capital of Hue, set on the Perfume River.

Ride around the city on a cyclo

Q

This vibrant and friendly country is sure to delight you and stimulate all your senses. Explore bustling 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.

Cruise the Mekong Delta

Q

Meet the friendly Vietnamese people

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Hoi An)

h Travel wit a group of families... Visit a floating village

EXTEND YOUR TRIP Extend your stay with a 4-night Cambodian extension. Explore the countryside, visit Angkor Wat, and ride an elephant to the ancient city of Angkor Thom.

Try fishing Vietnamese-style Ride a ‘cyclo’ rickshaw Cruise on a traditional junk Sleep overnight on a train

meals

8 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights with Vietnam Airlines or Malaysia Airlines via KL

Paddle in a bamboo basket!

travel by

Dragon boat • Traditional junk Minibus • Train • Cyclo

Go cycling through rice paddies

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £899 Child £849

Adult £1,799 Child £1,669

Approx. £60 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Please contact us for prices and more info.

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59


SOUTH EAST asia :: thailand Explore the rainforest in Khao Sok National Park

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Thailand has something for every member of the family – islands, rainforests, temples, hill tribes...and quite rightly deserves its monicker ‘The Land of Smiles’. Explore the Sok River and watch out for gibbons swinging through the jungle canopy.

Walk amongst hill tribes Chiang Mai

Luang Prabang (Laos)

Ride an elephant

Vientiane (Laos)

Ayuthaya Gain an insight into the remote areas of northern Thailand and meet the local tribespeople.

Bangkok Observe Thailand’s gentle giants at an elephant camp near Chiang Mai or Khao Sok and take a ride into the jungle.

Enjoy the great beaches

Koh Tao Go sea kayaking Koh Samui

Phuket

Thailand has some fantastic beaches and great snorkelling opportunities on the islands of Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Phuket.

Khao Sok Krabi National Park (Ao Nang)

Visit palaces and temples Hear the monks chanting at Wat Pho, tour the Grand Palace in Bangkok and visit the temple ruins at Ayuthaya.

Enjoy kayaking around the spectacular limestone cliffs on Thailand’s dramatic coast.

Stay in superb locations

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See pages 57–59 for details of our group trips with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Thailand.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

60

The expert’s view

Although the climate varies throughout the country you can visit all year round, but the best time is during the cool, dry season from November to early April.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Thailand. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

For a unique experience we recommend the Elephant Hills luxury tented camp in Khao Sok.


SOUTH EAST asia :: VIETNAM

&

CAMBODIA

Cruise on a junk

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Vietnam is an exciting and greatvalue destination with immense geographical and cultural diversity, offering delicious cuisine, friendly people, traditional villages and a wide variety of accommodation. Take a cruise around the dramatic peaks of Halong Bay and star-gaze from the deck of a traditional Vietnamese junk. Go trekking in the mountains

Discover ancient dynasties Sapa Hanoi Halong Bay

Laos

From gentle walks to more challenging hikes, explore the lush valleys and mountains of Northern Vietnam. Visit the Angkor Wat temples

Hue Hoi An

Thailand

Vietnam has UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Halong Bay, Hoi An and Hue (pictured).

See Hoi An’s fishing market

Siem Reap

Angkor Wat temples

Cambodia

Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta

Take a junk cruise You’ll need two days to explore the temples and perhaps visit a few of Cambodia’s more remote areas.

Sail through the warm waters of Halong Bay on board a traditional junk, admiring the towering limestone peaks and stalactite caves.

Watch the fisherman bringing in their catches, then wander around the traditional market in this charming town. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels

The expert’s view

Climate differs from north to south, but in general Oct–Dec and Mar–Apr are ideal. In the summer months you may experience short-lived downpours.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Vietnam. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Try delicious food Enjoy a fun cookery lesson, or let someone else do the work so you can sample Vietnam’s gastronomic delights. Explore the tunnels used by the Viet Cong – you can experience them first-hand, but definitely not for the claustrophobic!

61


South east asia :: bali Discover Balinese culture

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Few travel to Bali without being captivated by the gentle, friendly and artistic Balinese people. Combined with picturesque mountains and beautiful coral beaches, it’s the perfect destination. Watch the amazing Kecak dance as the sun sets at Uluwatu Temple. Go dolphin watching See an active volcano Lovina

Snorkelling & dolphin watching

Bedugul

Hindu lake temple

Mount Batur

Sangeh

Monkey forest

Ubud Lovina is the dolphin capital of Bali – take a sunrise trip to spot them by boat or canoe.

Denpasar Sanur

Lembongan Catch the sunrise at Mount Batur, and experience the thrill of seeing an active volcano.

Uluwatu Temple

Visit a monkey forest

Relax on great beaches

Explore terraced rice fields Explore the monkey forest where long-tailed macaques swing between the temples.

Ride a bike or take a hike through the paddies and experience first-hand how to grow and harvest rice.

Bali is blessed with beautiful beaches – we recommend Lembongan Island, or Sanur for watersports. See Ubud’s ancient temples

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See page 63 for details of our group trip with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Bali.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

62

The expert’s view

Best time is Apr–Oct as there tends to be more rain in other months, but these are usually short tropical downpours so there’s never really a bad time!

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Bali. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Discover Bali’s fascinating history in the many temples of Ubud – Bali’s cultural centre.


South east asia :: bali 5

to

Top Trip

16

Make friends with the local wildlife

Bali is a magical destination full of natural wonders and a unique culture to discover. Starting at the beach, visit beautiful Hindu temples, watch a traditional Barong dance, walk through the Munduk rainforest and visit the sacred monkey forest – watch out for those cheeky long-tailed macaques! Take a boat trip to the Nusa Lembongan islands and enjoy free time snorkeling or surfing in the azure blue waters. Go for a sunrise dolphin tour in an outrigger canoe. Explore the central highlands of Mount Batur and be a dinner guest with the folk from the Sjaki-Tari-Us Foundation.

Visit magical temples at Bedugul

13 days

paradise island TRIP CODE: FBPI

Relax on great beaches

An exciting trip with plenty of adventure and activities which are suitable for all. Accommodation is in comfortable hotels with facilities for children. Extra adventures for older children are optional. Bali is very family-friendly as a destination – its people are gentle and friendly. Who could resist its charms?

Enchanting! Beautiful ‘‘countryside, delightful

people and there’s plenty to do for those of all ages.

‘‘

approx.

Lovina

Snorkelling & dolphins

Munduk

Jungle walk

Bedugul

Water Temple & Tree top adventures

Ubud

Monkey forest To/From London

West Java

Q

age guideline ::

Sanur Denpasar

Nusa Lembongam

INDIAN OCEAN

– T. JOHNSTON

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Denpasar.

2

Arrive Denpasar; beach hotel in Sanur.

3

Visit Batubulan; Barong dance.

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

4/5 Sail to Nusa Lembongan to explore the island and enjoy watersport activities. 6

Ubud; dinner at Sjaki-Tari-Us Foundation.

7 Ubud’s monkey forest; optional elephant ride; Kercak dance.

Climate (Bali)

8 Drive to Bedugul; Pura Ulun Danu temple. 9

Munduk rainforest walk. Transfer to Lovina.

10

Sunrise dolphin tour in outrigger canoe.

11

Explore Bali’s central highlands.

Ride an elephant

12/13 Overnight flight to London.

what to do next

fact file

Talk to an expert...

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (10 nights)

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 evening meals included

meals

FLIGHTs

Scheduled flights from Heathrow with Malaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur

Elephant (optional) • Minibus Boat • Canoe • On foot • Raft (optional)

travel by

£

from

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £949 Child £899

Adult £1,999 Child £1,849

Approx. £30 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

h Travel wit a group of families...

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Go on a jungle exploration Go dolphin watching from a canoe Be a dinner guest with the folk from the Sjari-Tari-Us Foundation Explore the monkey forest! Try beach kite-flying

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63


South east asia :: borneo Meet the ‘Wild man of Borneo’

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Borneo is a contrast of dense jungle, winding rivers and small tropical islands surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and idyllic beaches – great for snorkelling and diving.

Go wildlife spotting

Kinabalu National Park Kota Kinabalu Pulau Tiga

Poring

Hot springs

Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Sanctuary for orphaned orangutans, with twice daily feeding sessions. Stay in a head-hunter’s house

Sepilok

Orangutan sanctuary Sabah Gomantong caves

Kinabatangan

Wildlife sanctuary

Sarawak Take a river cruise to see Kinabatangan wildlife – pygmy elephants, monkeys and otters.

Batang Ai

Longhouse stay

Stay in longhouses with the Ibans, Sarawak’s largest indigenous group. Learn about their culture and head-hunter past.

Trek through the jungle

Camp in the jungle

Go by speed-boat to Pulau Tiga On this secluded tropical island with idyllic beaches and mud volcanoes, look out for flying foxes, monitor lizards, proboscis and macaque monkeys while wandering the jungle trails.

Wander through the jungle trails of Kinabalu Park, looking for frogs and amazing birdlife.

Experience a night in the wild in a jungle camp and search for the peculiar long-nosed proboscis monkey.

The Perfect Itinerary?

64

Our experts have put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Borneo. But of course – it’s your trip, so let us help you design a holiday that’s just right for you and your family.

Fly back to Kota Kinabalu; speedboat to Pulau Tiga NP. Day 12 Transfer back to Kota Kinabalu for night flight to UK. Day 13 Arrive UK.

Days 1/2 Fly to Kota Kinabalu. Day 3 Walking in Kinabalu NP. Day 4 Poring Hot Springs. Days 5/6 Kinabatangan River – jungle walks, wildlife, boat cruises (at eco-lodge). Day 7 Drive to Sepilok – Proboscis Sanctuary. Day 8 See orangutans being fed; canopy walk. Days 9–11

Best time is Mar–Oct as the rainy season is from Nov–Feb, but rainforest areas are hot and humid most of the year.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

best time to go

GUIDE prices

Talk to an expert

(See page 78)

• From £2,699 per adult / £2,599 per child • Based on 1 child sharing with 2 adults • Including flights from London

Call us now so we can help you design a holiday that’s just right for you and your family, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Borneo.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk


South east asia :: Malaysia Relax on the beaches of Langkawi

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Malaysia is the perfect destination for a family holiday – explore Kuala Lumpur, the rainforest reserve of Taman Negara and the lush, tropical islands of Langkawi. Enjoy relaxing on Langkawi’s stunning Tanjung Rhu beach – great for snorkelling!

Explore the rainforest canopy

Visit an elephant orphanage

Langkawi Beaches

Kedah

Belum Rainforest

Canopy walk

Kuala Gula

Bird sanctuary

Taman Negara National Park

Cameron Highlands

Tea plantation

Kuala Gandah

Visit the Kuala Gandah elephant orphanage to learn about the rehabilitation project and give Nelly a bath!

Elephant orphanage

Kuala Lumpur Petronas Towers Batu caves

Take a 950m canopy walk in the tree-tops of Kedah – reputed to be the longest treetop walk in the world! Spot wildlife from the river

See colourful birdlife

Take tea at a plantation Escape the city for the cool retreats of the Cameron Highlands tea plantation and honey farms. Learn about tea picking and spend time trekking, bird watching and enjoying cups of refreshing tea.

Malaysia’s national parks and sanctuaries are home to many endemic and migrant birds.

Enjoy a river cruise to look for elephant, tapir and the elusive Asian leopard and tiger in the Taman Negara National Park.

The Perfect Itinerary? Our experts have put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Malaysia. But of course – it’s your trip, so let us help you design a holiday that’s just right for you and your family. Days 1/2 Fly to Kuala Lumpur. Day 3 Batu Caves; boat trip to see fireflies. Day 4 Lagoon Theme Park. Day 5 Visit to elephant sanctuary. Day 6 Taman Negara treetop canopy walk. Days 7/8 Cameron Highlands tea plantation tour. Day 8 Ferry to Orangutan Island, see primates up close. Continue to

Penang Island. Day 10 Butterfly farm and batik factory. Days 11–13 Ferry to Langkawi islands for swimming, snorkelling, boat trips. Days 14/15 Fly to Kuala Lumpur and on to UK. best time to go Best time is Dec–Mar when it’s hot and sunny. East coast best avoided Nov–Feb when heaviest rain falls and sea choppy.

GUIDE prices

(See page 78)

See the impressive Petronas Towers Completed in March 1996, the imposing twin towers in Kuala Lumpur were the world’s tallest buildings until Taipei 101 was constructed in 2004.

• From £2,899 per adult / £2,799 per child • Based on 1 child sharing with 2 adults • Including flights from London

65


CUBA

Cuba Libre! NEW 67

COSTA RICA

Rainforest & Volcanoes Active Costa Rica Build Your Own Trip

68 69 70–71

Our guide, Edgar, was s brilliant with the kid and shared our love of h, wildlife. We saw a slot a porcupine and howler

‘‘

monkeys.

‘‘

Americas

TA RICA ) – ROB ERTS ON FAM ILY (COS

PERU

72 73

Build Your Own Trip Land of the Incas

BRAZIL

GULF OF MEXICO

CUBA

74

Build Your Own Trip

HAITI

ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS

75

Build Your Own Trip

MEXICO

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

BELIZE

HONDURAS GUATEMALA EL SALVADOR NICARAGUA

NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

CARIBBEAN SEA

COSTA RICA PANAMA

VENEZUELA

GUYANA SURINAME FRENCH GUYANA

COLOMBIA GALAPAGOS ECUADOR PERU

BRAZIL

SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN

Don’t forget!

4 ew 01

nO R F

2

Explore Colombia

ay and discover Build your own holid islands, coffee beautiful Caribbean n ale watching, or joi country and go wh cy trip ‘Journey us on our special rec in August 2014. through Colombia’

Please contact us or . go online for details

66

Booking early often means cheaper flights and more convenient depar ture dates.


AMERICAS :: CUBA age guideline ::

approx.

10

to

war nheis ye

16

t

Visit Vinales’ limestone caves

Discover the rest of the island: visit the limestone caves in Vinales National Park; follow rainforest trails; shower in waterfalls; experience the thrill of zooming through the tree-tops on a zip-wire. Go on the ‘Revolutionary Trail’ and learn how its history has shaped Cuban culture. Explore the vibrant city of Trinidad, and spend a few days relaxing on the beautiful white sandy beaches of Varadero.

Your ITINERARY

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Havana via Madrid.

2

1950’s American car tour; salsa lesson

3

Vinales NP walks; visit tobacco plantation.

4 Vinales NP walks; boat to limestone caves. 5 Canopy tour; visit Las Terrazas community and nature reserve. 6

Drive to Trinidad; Bay of Pigs museum.

7 Topes de Collantes nature reserve; wildlife walks and jungle pools. 8 Explore colonial Trinidad and the sugar cane plantation of Valle de los Ingenios. 9 Visit Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara and transfer to Varadero.

An exciting trip combining culture, activities including walks, zip-wires, cycling (optional), swimming, opportunity to go snorkelling, salsa dancing and time at the beach. Accommodation is based in comfortable hotels including breakfast. Please note Cuba has to ration all consumer goods so things have to last and may appear a little faded.

We had a great time ‘‘exploring Cuba. The walks

Drive to Havana; overnight flight to Madrid.

13

Arrive Madrid and fly to London.

Relax on the beach

GULF OF MEXICO

To/from London

Vinales National Park Tobacco plantation, walks and boat ride

Las Terrazas

Havana

Varadero

Classic car city tour

Beach stay

CUBA

Santa Clara Che Guevara Mausoleum

Topes de Collantes

Wildlife walks/jungle pools

CARIBBEAN

Trinidad

SEA

through the jungle and swimming in the waterfalls were amazing. – B. PRICE

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

40

Av. Min temp ˚C

Av. Max temp˚C

Av. Rain mm

Climate (Havana)

180

20

120

10 0

300 240

30

60

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

10/11 Free time on the beach at Varadero. 12

Cuba Libre! TRIP CODE: FCCL

Canopy tour

‘‘

Soak up the warm Cuban atmosphere, as you explore the lively city of Havana in a classic American car tour, and see the beautiful colonial buildings.

Explore Havana in a classic car

13 days

what to do next

0

h Travel wit a group of families... Tour Havana by classic car Explore the sites of Cuba’s Revolutionary past

Talk to an expert...

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotel (10 nts), Eco lodge (1 nt)

£

from

meals

11 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 5 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Flights from London Gatwick with Air Europa

travel by

On foot • Minibus • Zip wire Boat • Mountain bike (optional)

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £899 Child £879

Adult £1,699 Child £1,599

Included

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Zip-wire through treetops

(optional)

Relax on the beach Enjoy jungle walks and waterfalls Discover Trinidad’s colonial quarter

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67


americas :: costa rica

Top Trip

13 days

TRIP CODE: FCRA

age guideline ::

Find colourful wildlife in the jungle

Have fun playing in mud pools!

This is a great way to explore in comfort and get the most out of Costa Rica’s varied natural environment – including mountains, volcanoes, swamps, rainforest and beach.

All kids learn about rainforests in school. This trip gives them an opportunity to experience them first hand and have great fun at the same time. Travel in Costa Rica is easy as distances are relatively short, while the small lodges are comfortable and full of character.

The trip is positively packed with exciting activities so you’ll learn about all aspects of the country. A comprehensive programme of optional excursions, such as white-water rafting, zip-wires, a hot springs visit and a walk in a rainforest canopy, guarantees something to interest everyone in the family.

Our guide, Edgar, was ‘‘brilliant with the kids and

approx.

5

to

16

Explore volcanoes and rainforests

Playa Panama

Rincon de la Vieja NP

(Beach/snorkel) G u a n

a c a s te

To London

Puerto Viejo Tortuguero NP Manatees,crocs de Sarapiqui

Chocolate tour

Q

rainforest & volcanoes

Zip-wire through rainforest

Arenal NP

Liberia

From London

Airport

San José

Poas volcano

shared our love of wildlife. We saw a sloth, a porcupine and howler monkeys.

‘‘

– ROBERTSON FAMILY

Your ITINERARY

h Travel wit a group of families... Hold a tarantula!

WITH POOL

1

Fly to San José.

2

San José; visit Poas Volcano & Inbiopark.

3/4 Drive/boat to Tortuguero NP; explore by boat – see monkeys, sloths, crocodiles. 5/6 Drive to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui; explore rainforest; chocolate tour. 7

Visit Arenal Volcano.

8

Arenal and Guanacaste.

9

Rincon de la Vieja NP; mud pools.

When to Go FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (San Jose)

10/11 Drive to Playa Panama; relax or snorkel.

See how chocolate is made Ride zip-wires in the rainforest

12/13 Drive to Liberia. Overnight flight to London.

fact file ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (2 nights)

Lodge (7 nights) Resort (2 nights)

Relax on the beach See bats and crocodiles Visit a banana plantation

68

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meals

11 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 evening meals included

FLIGHTs

Scheduled flights from Heathrow with United Airlines

travel by

£

from

EXTEND YOUR TRIP Extend your stay at Playa Panama on the Pacific Coast. Simply relax on the beach or by the pool, or take to the water for scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and boat tours.

Minibus • Boat On foot • Zip-wires

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

Adult £1,299 Child £1,269

Adult £2,449 Child £2,329

Approx. £40 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Please contact us for prices and more info.


americas :: costa rica age guideline ::

approx.

9

to

16

10 days

active costa rica TRIP CODE: FCPV

Swing through the jungle on zip-wires

Go white-water rafting!

An invigorating cocktail of nature and adrenalin that shows you the highlights of this amazing country and keeps the whole family active.

An active trip for adventurous and natureloving families. No experience is required for the activities, just a sense of adventure and keenness to ‘have a go’ – full instruction is provided. Accommodation is a comfortable mix of tented camps, lodges and hotels.

Explore the rainforest, volcanoes and beaches of this natural paradise with action all the way. Canoe on the Caribbean coast and ride a horse on a working ranch. Take to the water by raft on the Sarapiqui River. See the active Arenal volcano from your mountain bike and walk at night in the tropical forest.

‘‘

Reaching Monteverde’s Cloud Forest by boat, you’ll find yourself right in the rainforest canopy and finally ride the network of zip-wire cables for an unforgettable Tarzan-style adventure!

Your ITINERARY

When to Go

Fly to San José.

2 Travel to Cahuita on Caribbean coast. Chocolate tour. 3

Canoe in Cahuita NP and enjoy beach.

4

Drive to Sarapiqui; horse riding at ranch.

5

White-water rafting on Sarapiqui River.

6

Mountain bike by volcano. Night walk.

7

Boat ride to Monteverde. Visit frog pond.

8

Suspension bridge & canopy tour by zip-wire.

9

Return to San José. Night flight to London.

10

Arrive London.

a c a s te Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui Rafting

Arenal

Mountain biking

Monteverde Zip-wires

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (San José)

Poas

Volcano

Cahuita NP

Caribbean beach

NORTH PA C I F I C OCEAN

Q

To/From London

h Travel wit a group of families... Swing like Tarzan through the rainforest Ride a horse like a cowboy

Talk to an expert...

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels (5 nights)

Fixed tents (1 night) Resort (2 nights)

meals

8 breakfasts included

FLIGHTs

Scheduled flights from Heathrow with United Airlines Minibus • On foot • Horse Raft • Mountain bike • Boat

Land Only

With Flights

Airport Transfers

from Adult £1,199 Child £1,179

Adult £2,349 Child £2,229

Approx. £40 each way per family (if required)

£

– F ISHER FAMILY

what to do next

fact file

travel by

‘‘

1

Guan

San José

Sam and Molly have said it was their best holiday ever, so it’s going to be difficult to top it next year!

WITH POOL

Stay on a ‘hacienda’ and go riding

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

Check prices, departure dates and availability online now...

Go canoeing in a National Park See an active volcano Go white-water rafting See a red poison frog

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69


americas :: costa rica

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family.

See fantastic wildlife Costa Rica has an abundance of wildlife, including pumas, ocelots, howler monkeys, toucans, parrots and tiny, colourful tree frogs, to name just a few!

Costa Rica is a superb holiday destination for wildlife, volcanoes, jungles, beautiful coastlines and a wide range of activities including zip-wires, white-water rafting, hiking, horse riding and snorkelling. With over a quarter of the total land area covered by national parks, biological reserves and wildlife refuges, Costa Rica offers a wide range of natural diversity and is home to some of the most colourful and exotic flora and fauna in the world.

‘‘

Take a boat ride through the rainforest Explore the canals and creeks of Tortuguero NP – look out for turtles, caimans, river-otters, spider monkeys and the elusive three-toed sloth (pictured).

Our guide, Diego, was a star - an absolute mine of information, great company and beloved by all, especially the kids with whom he was very popular. I was amazed we managed to pack so much into such a relatively short time frame and I think I can say that pretty much all the activities exceeded my personal expectations and I know the kids loved them all.

‘‘

– KNIGHT FAMILY

Climate (San José)

Snorkel in the Pacific Ocean Spend a few days on the Pacific coast snorkelling over coral reefs and spotting colourful tropical fish.

The expert’s view Much of Costa Rica is covered by rainforest so expect rain at any time of the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. The ‘green season’ (rainy season) is from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall in September and October. July can also be a lovely month to travel in Costa Rica.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Costa Rica. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

70

Ride a zip-wire through the jungle Enjoy the speed and thrill of flying through the jungle on a zip-wire for a unique view.


americas :: costa rica Explore the rainforest

See active volcanoes Arenal Volcano is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Watch the spectacular glowing eruptions of rock and lava light up the night sky.

Trek through the forest of towering trees and navigate the river by boat.

Go white-water rafting Flamingo Beach Liberia Monteverde

Tortuguero National Park Arenal

Active Volcano

Sarapiqui

Cloud-forest & zip-wires

Tamarindo Surfing

San José

Playa Panama Enjoy the adrenalin-pumping experience of white-water rafting on the Sarapiqui River.

Corcovado National Park

Go whale watching

Whale watching

Step into the clouds Discover the secrets of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a unique ecosystem home to over 100 species of mammals, from pumas to sloths, and over 400 species of birds!

See humpback and sperm whales along the coast of the Corcovado National Park between December and January.

Explore the Pacific coast Enjoy relaxing on the sandy, palm-fringed Flamingo Beach on the Pacific Coast. With opportunities for canoeing, snorkelling, sailing, horse riding and turtle watching, there's plenty to see and do here.

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See pages 68–69 for details of our group trips with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Costa Rica.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

71


americas :: peru Explore the lost city of Machu Picchu

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Peru is an exciting destination for adventurous families. Explore the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, see the mysterious Nazca Lines, ice mummies and Inca fortresses, and explore the Peruvian rainforest. Follow the Inca trail to the lost city of Machu Picchu. Look for condors in a canyon See ice mummies!

Amazon

Jungle lodge

Machu Picchu

Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon offers superb views, Andean villages and awesome condors.

Ancient Inca civilisation

Pisac

Lima

Handicraft market

Sacred Valley

White-water rafting

See the famous Nazca Lines

Cusco

Nazca

See Juanita, a 15th century ice maiden, at Arequipa’s Andean Sanctuaries Museum.

Lake Titicaca

Uros tribe

Desert etchings

Explore the steamy jungles

Colca Canyon Arequipa

Ice mummies

Fly across the desert to see the Nazca Lines, including a 50m spider, 100m monkey, a killer whale and a humming bird.

Take a boat ride on Lake Titicaca Take a boat across Lake Titicaca to the famous floating reed islands and meet the Uros tribe.

Spend a few days exploring the steamy Peruvian Amazon and seek out the amazing wildlife and colourful birds. Haggle in the markets

Talk to an expert

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567 See page 73 for details of our group trip with other families on set departure dates, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Peru.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

72

The expert’s view

Peru can be visited all year round, but peak season for visiting the Andean areas is May–Oct. Outside this period it can be rainy, so fewer visitors.

It’s your trip! Our experts can put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Peru. So call us today and we’ll help you design the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Enjoy haggling for a Peruvian memento in the colourful Pisac handicraft market.


americas :: peru age guideline ::

approx.

10

to

16

15 days

land of the incas TRIP CODE: FPLI

Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest lake and you’ll visit its Indian villagers who live in reed houses on floating islands. Then experience a classic train ride through the Andes to the Inca capital, Cusco. Your first view of Machu Picchu is an unrivalled sight – the breathtaking mystery of an ancient civilisation.

Any longer journeys are by plane or train, so travelling is easy, although you should be aware that the effects of high altitude can make some people feel a little queasy for a while – we suggest you speak to one of our experts for more details.

‘‘

Most children know a little about ancient Peru from school and this itinerary will really bring it to life as they learn about Inca civilisation, the Conquistadores and modern Peru, and (with the Amazon extension) they’ll also get to explore the rainforest.

Our guide Max was very attentive and knowledgeable and made sure everything ran smoothly. Truly a oncein-a-lifetime experience.

Your ITINERARY

When to Go

1

Fly to Lima.

2

In Lima; Palomino Islands boat trip.

3/4 Fly to Arequipa; visit ice mummies museum and Santa Catalina Convent. 5

Drive to Puno.

6

Puno; Uros Islands.

7/8

Train to Cusco. Explore ruins on horseback.

‘‘

WITH POOL

Train to Machu Picchu; explore site.

12

Train to Cusco.

13

Explore Cusco’s markets and monuments.

14/15 Fly to Lima. Overnight flight to London.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Climate (Lima)

ACCOMMODATIOn Hotels

(13 nights) meals

FLIGHTs travel by

Airport Transfers

Adult £2,799 Child £2,649

Approx. £25 each way per family (if required)

Guideline prices only. See page 78 for details.

Machu Picchu Lost Inca city

Urubamba River Valley

Cusco

City tour Sacsayhuaman fortress

Juliaca

Arequipa

Lake Titicaca

Puno

Ice mummies and volcano

h Travel wit a group of families...

Ride a train through the Andes See ice mummies – spooky! Explore an Inca fortress

Sail a reed boat on the world’s highest navigable lake

Minibus • Plane • On foot Train • Boat • Horse With Flights

Amazon Extension

Haggle for souvenirs at a market

Scheduled flights from Heathrow with Iberia Airlines via Madrid

Land Only

£

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

13 breakfasts and 1 lunch included

from Adult £1,599 Child £1,549

Lima City tour

Puerto Maldonado

Discover the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu

Extend your trip deep in the Amazon at the Sandoval Lake Lodge. The lodge is situated on the banks of a protected oxbow lake – perfect for spotting wildlife.

fact file

To/From London

– FAULKNER FAMILY

9/10 Urubamba River Valley; Pisac market and ruins; visit salt mines. 11

Explore mysterious Machu Picchu

An exciting journey to take in the highlights of Peru, from ice mummies to Inca fortresses.

Wander through colourful markets

See the reed boats on lake Titicaca

Please contact us for prices and more info.

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73


americas :: brazil See the Iguassu Falls

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Brazil is not just a jungle – explore the wilderness of the Pantanal, the Iguassu Falls, the spectacular coastline of white beaches and turquoise sea, and soak up the carnival atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro. Fly over the falls in a helicopter or ride a boat to the foot of the falls as millions of litres of water surge over them every second!

, Look for piranhas & gators!

See whales & turtles

Amazon Rainforest

Manaus

Bahia Atlantic Coast

Whale watching & turtles

Pantanal

Explore the Amazon – for the fearless go piranha fishing and searching for alligators!

Rio de Janeiro Iguassu Falls Ilha Grande

Spot wildlife in the Pantanal

Go whale watching on the Bahia Atlantic Coast (Jul–Oct) and visit the Tamar sea-turtle conservation project.

Tropical beaches

See Sugarloaf Mountain

Experience Rio de Janeiro See the highlights of Rio de Janeiro, including ‘Christ the Redeemer’ statue, the sandy white beaches, the famous Maracana football stadium and an urban rainforest.

From the elusive jaguar, jabiru stork and giant anteater to the anaconda and caiman – there’s wildlife around every corner.

Take the cable car up to the 396-metre summit of Sugarloaf Mountain to see views of Copacabana and Ipanema.

The Perfect Itinerary? Our experts have put together a varied and exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Brazil. But of course – it’s your trip, so let us help you design a holiday that’s just right for you and your family. Day 1 Fly to Rio; 3 nights hotel by Copacabana beach. Days 2/3 Corcovado Mountain – ‘Christ the Redeemer’; Tijuca Forest by jeep; Sugarloaf mountain. Days 4–6 Fly to Iguassu Falls, half day Brazilian side, full day Argentinian side. Days 7–9 Fly to Pantanal; 3 nights in rainforest lodge;

74

canoe trips through wetlands, horse riding, jeep safaris, nature trails. Day 10 Transfer to airport for flight to Sao Paulo and on to London. Day 11 Arrive UK.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

best time to go Best time is Apr–Nov. Rio is hot from Jan–March and wet in Dec. Carnival is in Feb so prices are at a premium.

GUIDE prices

Talk to an expert

(See page 78)

• From £3,699 per adult / £3,499 per child • Based on 1 child sharing with 2 adults • Including flights from London and domestic flights within Brazil

Call us now so we can help you design a holiday that’s just right for you and your family, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Brazil.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk


americas :: ecuador & galapagos See amazing wildlife close up

Build your own trip... Our tailor-made holidays are just that – tailor-made for you and your family. Ecuador is a land of startling contrasts, from the colourful Otavalo market and the lush, green jungles of the Amazon to the inspiration for Darwin’s theory, the exotic and beautiful Galapagos Islands. Many of the species on the Galapagos Islands don’t have natural predators and remain unafraid of people. Great for photography! See a snow-capped volcano

Spot animals in the jungle Mindo Cloud Forest

Otavalo

Indian market

Galapagos Islands

(Enlarged area – not to scale)

Quito Cotopaxi Charles Darwin Research Centre

Amazon

Volcano

Jungle lodge

Ecuador Explore the Ecuadorean Amazon and look out for the huge diversity of mammals, birds and reptiles.

Visit the Cotapaxi National Park and its snow-capped volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes.

Cruise around the islands Meet a giant tortoise

Swim with sea lions and penguins Take a dip in the ocean and see penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas.

See the incredible giant tortoises up close at the Darwin Research Centre.

Explore the Galapagos from 4–8 days aboard a familyfriendly cruiser with activities and meals designed specially for children.

The Perfect Itinerary? Our experts have put together an exciting sample itinerary to include the very best of Ecuador and Galapagos. But of course – it’s your trip, so let us help you design a holiday that’s just right for your family. Day 1 Fly to Quito, transfer to hotel for 3 nights. Days 2/3 Equatorial Monument, extinct volcano, forest of birds, butterflies and orchids. Days 4–7 Fly to Galapagos; 4-night cruise with ‘Young Pirates’ activity programme ideal for 7–12 year-olds. Day 8 Travel to Finch Bay Eco Hotel

for 2 nights. Day 9 Darwin Research Centre; hotel activities; pool and beach. Day 10 Fly back to Quito. Day 11 Depart Quito. Day 12 Arrive UK.

01962 737 560 0845 051 4567

best time to go From Dec to May it’s hot (25–30°) with some rain, cooler from Jun to Sep with temperatures increasing again in Oct to Nov (20–25°C).

GUIDE prices

Talk to an expert

(See page 78)

• From £3,899 per adult / £3,449 per child • Based on 1 child sharing with 2 adults • Including flights from London

Call us now so we can help you design a holiday that’s just right for you and your family, or click online for accommodation options and more info about what to see and do in Ecuador and Galapagos.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

75


Hepatitis A

Typhoid

Tetanus, Polio & Diptheria

Hepatitis B

Rabies

Bali/Indonesia

Yes, on arrival

Borneo/ Malaysia

No

Botswana

No

Brazil

No

Cambodia

Yes, on arrival

Colombia

Yes, on arrival

Costa Rica

No

Croatia

No

Cuba

Yes, on arrival

Ecuador

No

Important: You should also allow for postage from/to your mailing address. Fees are normally charged for visas. For a fee, the Post Office will cover against consequential loss of passports.

Egypt

Yes, on arrival

Finland

No

France

No

Some countries refuse admission to travellers not meeting their accepted standards of dress/appearance (even if holding a visa). Entry may be refused to certain countries if the passport bears stamps/visas (valid or expired) for Israel.

India

Yes, prior to travel

Italy (Sicily)

No

Jordan

Yes, on arrival

Kenya

Yes, prior to travel / on arrival

Malta (Gozo)

No

Morocco

Yes, on arrival

Namibia

No

Nepal

Yes, prior to travel / on arrival

Oman

Yes, on arrival

Peru

No

Slovakia

No

Spain

No

Sri Lanka

Yes, prior to travel

Tanzania

Yes, prior to travel / on arrival

Thailand

No

Tibet

Yes, through local agent

Turkey

Yes, on arrival

Vietnam

Yes, prior to travel

Before you travel you must ensure that you are in possession of a full passport (with at least six months’ validity from the date of your return to the UK). Allow at least one to two months when applying for a new passport. It is also your responsibility to ensure that you have the necessary visa(s) to enter or transit any countries visited during your journey. Visa requirements are shown here but please bear in mind that this information may be subject to change. Visas can be obtained through our recommended visa agency - CIBT - or through the relevant consulate. Passports and completed application forms are normally required six weeks prior to departure date. To obtain your visa, call: CIBT 0844 8004 650 or visit uk.cibt.com/familiesworldwide.

Visa information provided by CIBT - uk.cibt.com. Health and vaccination information provided by Nomad Travel Clinics www.nomadtravel.co.uk Visa requirements shown are for British nationals only - other nationalities should consult the relevant embassy or our visa agency This information is correct at the time of going to print in November 2013

Tuberculosis

Visa Required

Japanese B Encephalitis

Country

Visas and Passports

76

Meningitis ACWY

Visas & Vaccinations

 

  

 

 

 

 


Choice of Malaria tablets

only if travelling FROM infected country

YF certificate

Yellow Fever

Tick-borne Encephalitis

Insurance 

Chlor + Prog, Mal/Mef/Doxy**

Mal/Mef/Doxy**

Mal/Mef/Doxy**

Mal/Mef/Doxy**

Mal/Mef/Doxy** Mal/Mef/Doxy**

 

Chlor + Prog**

Mal/Mef/Doxy

Health & Vaccinations Most passengers who travel with Families Worldwide stay healthy throughout their journey. However, we realise what an important consideration your family’s health is, so Families Worldwide have teamed up with Nomad Travel Clinic to help you and give you peace of mind. Nomad Travel Store and Clinics specialise in travel goods, expedition equipment, vaccinations and travel pharmacies. We have negotiated a 10% discount for Families Worldwide passengers for any purchases made through Nomad (either in stores, clinics or online). Health information shown in the table has been compiled by Nomad to help you prepare. Please feel free to call into one of their stores to speak to a nurse or call their health line (see below).

Always seek advice from either your GP or local Travel Clinic prior to departure.

 

At Families Worldwide we believe that your safety and holiday enjoyment are very important. Therefore travel insurance is a must whenever you travel abroad. It is a condition of joining one of our holidays that you have insurance and as our deposits are non-refundable you should be insured for cancellation at time of booking. Our single trip policy is available to anybody resident in the EU regardless of nationality and is specifically designed to cover every activity shown in this brochure or our Trip Dossiers.

Price per family*

Days

Europe

Worldwide (excl N.America)

North America

Single Trip

Single Trip

Up to 9

£62.50

£152.50

Single Trip £225.00

Up to 17

£77.50

£170.00

£245.00

Up to 24

£107.50

£187.50

£277.50

Up to 32

£132.50

£205.00

£292.50

*F amily includes up to two adults & all children aged 18 years or less travelling in the party.

Annual Multi Trip worldwide cover - £179

Summary of Cover Sums Insured are per insured person

Chlor + Prog**

  

Mal/Mef/Doxy**

KEY

Mal = Malarone Chlor = Chloroquine Prog = Proguanil Mel = Mefloquine Doxy = Doxycycline ** = Dependent on area visited  

Mal/Mef/Doxy North only

Chlor + Prog below 1200m

= Recommended =T o be considered if travelling for long periods e.g., over one month or taking part in high risk activities.

Mal/Mef/Doxy/Chlor/ Prog**

Chlor + Prog**

Mal/Mef/Doxy

Mal/Doxy - North, Koh Chang

 Chlor + Prog**

Mal/Mef/Doxy**

£10,000,000

Personal Liability

£2,000,000

B - Personal Accident

£25,000

C - Cancellation or Curtailment

£3,000

D - Delayed Departure

£1,500

E - Personal Effects

£2,000

F - Legal Expenses

£25,000

G - Winter Sports

Optional

To arrange cover please contact us on: 0845 051 4567

 

A - Medical Expenses

To book a travel health consultation or an appointment with a Nomad specialist nurse, please contact your nearest clinic at: www.nomadtravel.co.uk/travelclinics or call 0845 310 4470 for details of your nearest clinic. Consultation fee of £20 refundable against the cost of any vaccines administered within 28 days.

PLEASE NOTE: Full details of the cover provided are shown on your policy document which will be sent to you upon receipt of payment of premium. Please read it carefully to ensure you understand the cover provided as this insurance is being offered on a Non Advised basis from a single insurer. Should you require it a specimen policy can be downloaded from our website. Certain terms, conditions, exclusions and excesses apply, in particular cover is excluded for any pre-existing medical condition from which you or any person upon whom travel depends are suffering. If in doubt please contact our medical helpline in confidence on 0844 826 2686. The policy document contains a 14 day Cooling Off Period and details of how to claim and who to contact in the event of a medical emergency. All premiums shown are inclusive of Insurance Premium Tax and are valid for all plicies issued upto 31/12/2013. Campbell Irvine Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). Their registration numbers can be checked with the FSA’s by visiting www. fsa.gov.uk or by contacting them on 0845 606 1234. Chameleon Worldwide is an Appointed Representative of Campbell Irvine Ltd.

77


Additional Information What’s included  International Flights*  UK departure taxes  Airport transfers at start and end of tour (where stated)  Tour leader/driver  All accommodation as per itinerary  Meals as per itinerary  All transport as listed under each itinerary  Entrance fees to included sights  City tours and excursions as per itinerary * Where shown as ‘With Flights’

Not included Overseas departure/entry taxes, airport transfers (unless stated), excess baggage charges, porterage, insurance, passports, visas, vaccinations, optional excursions, city taxes, gratuities and any items of a personal nature.

Itineraries The holidays in this brochure use the services of many suppliers and are planned months or years in advance. Consequently, there are factors over which we have no control and which could make changes to any trip necessary. If we are aware of major changes we will always try to let you know in advance.

Trip extensions The prices shown for trip extensions are priced on the assumption that your family takes our international flights from the UK. Extension prices may sometimes be higher if you book on a Land Only basis.

Prices Prices shown in this brochure are on a per person basis, based on shared accommodation (unless stated otherwise). The Flight Inclusive prices are detailed as a guideline only, so please use them as a guide to the holiday price. Please refer to the itinerary and Trip Dossier for exact details of what is included in the price. Prices and itineraries shown for trips departing from March

78

2015 onwards are subject to change and confirmation with the publication of our 2015/16 brochure, due to be published September 2014.

Child prices Our prices reflect any discounts given by airlines for children under 12. There are fewer reductions on land costs due to the unpredictability of the precise make-up and size of every family, availability of rooms, etc. (see ‘Rooming’).

Local payment On just a few trips, an additional Local Payment must be paid, although we have tried to avoid this as much as possible. This is an extra payment which forms part of the price of the tour. Instead of being paid to Families Worldwide at the time of invoice, this amount is paid to your Tour Leader on arrival at the start of the trip. It should be paid in cash in the currency stated.

Group travel Many of our trips are designed to operate as a group of families travelling together. The maximum group size varies from one trip to another but the majority average 12–16 people sometimes up to 20 – each group is generally made up of between three and six families. Parents’ ages range from around 35–55, while kids are just about any age – most being between 8 and 12, but there are plenty of trips which suit younger children and toddlers too.

Single & sole parents Whether you’re single, or have just decided to travel without your partner, you are very welcome and would be part of any typical group. Meeting like-minded families, whether you’re single or a couple, is part of the fun of our style of travel. We usually find that within 24 hours of arrival, the kids have all gelled together to the extent that they almost function as an independent unit. That leaves the parents free to relax and keep just a watchful eye on things, rather than having to entertain constantly.

‘Land only’ arrangements If you would prefer to make your own international travel arrangements you can book any of our holidays on a ‘Land Only’ basis and then organise your own flights. This may sometimes appear to be cheaper than booking a ‘Flight Inclusive’ package. Please bear in mind, however, 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. So, in the rare event that you are unable to join your holiday (e.g., if the airline you book through cancels or delays your flight) you would not be entitled to any refund of the Land Only holiday cost.


Additional Information Group flight arrangements

Fuel surcharges

Rooming

On each trip page we have detailed the airline we intend to use for the published itinerary. Unless stated otherwise, the prices shown include flights from London, either direct or via the airline’s hub, and back to London.

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

Rooming is generally organised on a twin share basis, but where available, triple or family rooms will be used. Sometimes we are able to provide a twin/double room with an extra bed, although we cannot always guarantee this. As there are many varying shapes and sizes of families (the combinations are almost limitless!) it is impossible to predict the exact rooming arrangements for every hotel on every tour. We room each family as best we can knowing that you want to be close to your children and share adjoining rooms in your hotel where possible.

Itineraries are normally based on scheduled flights, economy class seats and tour operator contract fares. The nature of tour operating means that sometimes the airline, routing, booking class and price may vary, in which case a flight supplement may be payable. On many of our trips Families Worldwide are able to offer departures from airports throughout the UK direct to an overseas “hub” rather than having to go via London. If this is not possible then we can usually arrange domestic departures, from most UK regional airports into London, to connect with international scheduled flights. These are usually 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 nonrefundable or non-transferable. All the flights used in our pricing are based on economy class but we also have access to competitive flight upgrades, please ask at the time of booking.

Airport transfers Unless stated on each trip page as ‘included’, airport transfers are not included in the trip price and should be requested at the time of booking. This is because families often arrive and depart on different flights and so a single group transfer can be difficult to pre-arrange (which can unnecessarily inflate the overall selling price for everyone). Also, in many destinations, parents are happy to organise their own airport transfer or taxi so, rather than build this cost into the selling price for everyone, we give you a choice: we can arrange airport transfers for you if you want us to, but you can do your own thing if you prefer. NB. On some tours – where it is difficult to arrange your own transfer to the Joining Point – we include a transfer in the trip price. These are shown as ‘Included’ under Airport Transfers on each trip page.

Low cost airlines

Flight delays Please be aware that delays, either 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 as 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 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 and standard airline policy applies in all cases.

Reality check Given the adventurous nature of our trips there is a risk associated with them that you and your family may not normally have to deal with at home. While by no means wishing to scare you, it is important that you give a moment’s thought to the following points. We have listed the recommended health requirements for each of the countries visited but we are not medical experts and strongly recommend that you consult your GP or a travel health clinic. Standards of hygiene can vary enormously around the globe and while your tour leader will help as much as possible you will need to pay particular attention to your family’s behaviour with regard to food, water and washing.

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.

In Europe in particular, 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 100% financial protection through our ATOL licence. This brings many benefits. For instance, if your international flight were to be delayed or cancelled and you could not join your holiday on time (remember the airport closures caused by snow and volcanic ash), we would manage the situation accordingly.

Occasionally, multi-share or dormitory-style accommodation will be used where you would be sharing with other families. Single room accommodation is available at many hotels and lodges and this is subject to a single room supplement. Otherwise if there are an odd number of you travelling and we are unable to accommodate you in a triple room, we will ‘room’ you with a fellow adult member from the group of the same sex.

Accommodation & swimming pools Our aim is to stay at good quality, friendly, clean and comfortable properties with local character and atmosphere. This could include anything from luxurious lodges through to midrange hotels, pensions, guesthouses, hostels, local houses, tented camps, campsites, etc. We know how important it is so we do aim to use accommodation with swimming pools, if at all possible. This is shown in the daily itinerary on each trip page using the ‘swimmer’ icon (as above). Standards can vary considerably from one country to another and we offer a range of differing levels of sophistication so please read the brochure and Trip Dossiers carefully to choose a trip that is right for you. More often than not our clients are pleasantly surprised by the high standards of accommodation.

In a number of the countries we visit, transport facilities, regulations and health and safety precautions are not of the standard you would expect in the EU. While we try to ensure that transport complies with local regulations and standards this may be below that expected in the UK and we cannot always guarantee that there will be seat belts provided. We are unable to provide child car seats; responsibility for your children lies with you and not the Tour Leader who will treat them as young adults. The Tour Leader will not act as a child minder or babysitter and if you wish to opt out of an activity it is your responsibility to make arrangements for your children. Above all you must be aware of the potential culture shock that children may face when visiting new countries. The heat, sounds and smells may be different and they may find themselves as the centre of attention in a way not experienced before. The flip side of this is that children have a brilliant way of breaking down barriers and eliciting smiles and welcomes that sometimes can elude an adult. None of this should put you off but every family should be aware of these points and make their holiday plans accordingly – there is a fantastic world out there ready for you and your family to experience together!

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r ck e m o Cust Feedba

At Families Worldwide we value what every customer thinks. We pride ourselves in listening to your feedback…

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Booking Conditions All bookings are subject to our full Booking Conditions which appear on our website http://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. 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 us only comes into existence when we despatch our written confirmation of booking 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 flight-inclusive 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. We are a member of ABTA (ABTA number Y0185). If your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday by ensuring you receive a refund or, if your arrangements include return travel to the UK (other than flights) you are returned to the UK in the event that your holiday cannot be provided as a result of our insolvency. Please go to www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme of Financial Protection. 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 Please note; authorisation to travel under ESTA does not at 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ or see www.abta.com. guarantee entry into the United States; that decision rests with the immigration official at the point of entry in the same Some of the holidays featured in this brochure require a way that travellers currently entering the U.S. under the Visa minimum number of participants before we can operate Waiver Program or with a visa are subject to inspection. them. The applicable minimum number depends on various Warning: If your passport has ever been reported lost factors and varies from tour to tour. If the group size drops or stolen to the authorities and then recovered, please do below the minimum number, we reserve the right either to not attempt to use it for travel to the United States. If you cancel or to run the trip. There is therefore no guarantee input the passport details into ESTA, your application will be that the holiday will have more than one family participating. denied. It is your responsibility to obtain ESTA approval or a We promise to advise you no later than 6 weeks prior to US visa if required. If you fail to obtain authorisation to travel departure if we have to cancel your holiday due to lack of through the ESTA website or a US visa in advance of travel, numbers. Clause 5 of our full Booking Conditions will then you will not be allowed on your outbound flight to the US. Full apply. cancellation charges will then apply. The ESTA website can For groups, the price per person given at the time of booking be found at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta is based on a particular number of participants. If the group Important note: Not all British visitors to the USA will qualify size changes at any time prior to departure (including where for the Visa Waiver Program. You cannot apply for the VWP confirmed participants cancel without being substituted and and will require a visa if you do not have a machine readable pay less than 100% cancellation charges), we reserve the passport. All new style, burgundy coloured UK passports right to re-cost the trip and the per person price. Any increase are machine readable. You will also need to apply for a visa if in the price will be payable by all remaining participants. The you have ever been arrested (even if you were not convicted increase will not be a surcharge and accordingly will not be of an offence) or have a criminal record of any description. subject to the surcharge provision set out in clause 4 of our Other exemptions also apply. If you are in any doubt as full Booking Conditions. to whether you may require a visa, please contact the US All participants must be in possession of a valid passport Embassy, Consular Information Unit, 24 Grosvenor Square, and all visas, permits and certificates, including medical London W1A 1AE or visit the website www.usembassy. certificates required for the whole of the holiday booked. It is org.uk before making your booking. Further information on your responsibility to obtain these unless you are expressly entry requirements for the USA is available at http://travel. advised otherwise by us. All information and advice given by state.gov. You must check entry requirements at the time of us on visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, special booking and in good time before departure as requirements equipment etc. is given in good faith. The lead passenger may change. must ensure that all participants are in possession of all Requirements generally and for any country may change and necessary travel and health documents before departure. you must check the up to date position in good time before All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must departure with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are travelling through and to. you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation. If It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all you are not a British citizen or hold a non British passport, recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good you must check passport and visa requirements with the time before departure. Details are available from your GP embassy or consulate of the country(ies) to or through surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and which you are intending to travel. If failure to have any Centre www.nathnac.org. Information on health abroad is necessary travel or other documents results in fines, also available on www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Travelhealth. For surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us or holidays in the EU/EEA you should obtain an EHIC (European costs incurred by us, you will be responsible for reimbursing Health Insurance Card) prior to departure from www.ehic. org.uk. An EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. us accordingly. Vaccination and other health requirements/recommendations We require details of the passports held by all participants are subject to change at any time for any destination. Please no later than 6 weeks prior to departure. A full British therefore check with a doctor or clinic not less than six weeks passport usually presently takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks prior to departure to ensure that you have met the necessary to obtain unless you are 16 or over and are applying for requirements and have the applicable information. a first passport. The UK Passport Service has to confirm your identity before issuing such a passport and may ask The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly applicants to attend an interview in order to do this. A updated travel information on its website www.gov.uk/ minimum of 6 weeks should be allowed in this case. If any foreign-travel-advice which you are recommended to participant does not have a passport or will need to renew it consult before booking and in good time before departure. prior to departure, they are recommended to apply at least 3 In the event of any flight delay or cancellation at your UK months in advance. or overseas point of departure, the airline is responsible for For travel to and via the USA, every person travelling providing such assistance as may legally be required by (including children) must have a visa unless they qualify the Denied Boarding Regulations. The ferry, tunnel or rail for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Most British citizens operator is similarly responsible in relation to any delayed travelling on holiday will qualify for the VWP but please see or cancelled sea crossing or international rail departure. the important note below. All visitors who are eligible for the Except where otherwise stated in our brochure or on our VWP must now apply for authorisation to travel to the US in website, we regret we cannot provide any assistance in advance in accordance with the Electronic System for Travel such circumstances other than information and advice to the Authorization (ESTA). For authorisation to travel you must extent we are in a position to do so. complete an online application on the ESTA website (details The information contained in our brochure is believed below) at least 72 hours before your flight to the US departs correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing but you are recommended to apply earlier. Providing the or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and application is accepted, you will be provided with approval information may subsequently change. You must therefore via the website. Approval is usually provided very quickly ensure you check all details of your chosen tour (including but can take up to 72 hours if data needs to be checked. the price) with us at the time of booking. You should make a note of the ESTA approval number when you receive it.

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Please recommend

Recommend a School and get £500 off your next families trip! Families Worldwide is part of a unique group of specialist travel businesses. One of these specialists operates a dedicated programme just for schools. Established eight years ago, the Schools Worldwide team of experts organises overseas adventures for schools, colleges and youth groups and provides young people with unforgettable, life-changing moments: • Adventurous overseas field trips • Tailor-made school expeditions • Sustainable community projects Destinations include Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Latin America. As a parent, you may be able to introduce a new school to us and, if that school goes on to book a Schools Worldwide trip within 18 months of your introduction, you’ll receive a £500 voucher towards any trip operated by Chameleon Worldwide – that means you could use it to take an adventure or walking trip, a family holiday or any of the tailor-made journeys that we offer anywhere in the world! Visit the Families Worldwide website and click on ‘Recommend a School’ to give details of the school you’d like to recommend, and we’ll contact you to take it from there.

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk British Airways British Airways

World

British Airways’ extensive flight network means you can connect to hundreds of worldwide destinations. All you have to choose is which cabin to fly in.

Club World - Introducing » A separate quieter cabin with up to aa new maximumClub of 6 World rows » The new seat is 25% wider, privacy » Wider, more comfortable seats withhas 7 ainches screen and converts into a fully flat bed more leg room than World Traveller » New Club Kitchen is open between meal » Complimentary drinks from the bar (excluding times with complimentary hot or cold snacks champagne) » À la carte menu inspired by the world’s top » Priority meal service offering fresh wine list chefs with expertly sourced contemporary meals treatments at the Elemis » Complimentary

Club World – Designed around you* » Comfortable seat converts into a 6’ fully flat bed at the touch of a button, with soft mattress and memory foam headrest » Access to Arrival and Departure lounges along with complimentary treatments at the Elemis Travel Spa** » Menu inspired by some of the world’s top chefs and is accompanied by an expertly sourced wine cellar » The Club Kitchen is open between meals with a selection of hot and cold snacks * Available on all 777 and 747 aircraft, 767 aircraft retain the original award winning Club World cabin ** Available at London Heathrow T5

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British Airways’ extensive flight network means you can connect to hundreds of worldwide destinations. All you have to choose is which cabin to Difference fly in. Traveller Plus - Worth the

Travel Spa available London Heathrow World Traveller – Designed foratcomfort Terminal 5

» An ergonomically designed seat with footrest Configuration of all long haul aircraft with the new and adjustable headrest to support your head Club World product is planned to be completed by and neck January 2010, please check at time of booking » Blankets, cushions, eyeshades, socks, toothbrush and toothpaste are also provided World comfort Traveller Plus - Worth the for your added Difference » Enjoy tasty meals designed by leading A separate quieter cabin with upservice, to a chefs, as »well as complimentary bar maximum of your 6 rowsflight available throughout » Wider, more comfortable seats with 7

inches more leg room than World Traveller

» Complimentary drinks from the bar (excluding champagne)

» Priority meal service offering fresh contemporary meals

Club World

Club World

World Traveller – Designed for comfort » An ergonomically designed seat with footrest and adjustable headrest to support your head and neck » Blankets, cushions, eyeshades, socks, toothbrush and toothpaste are also provided for your added comfort

» Enjoy tasty meals designed by leading

chefs, as well ascomplimentary bar service, available throughout your flight


...and finally

Don’t forge t

! Booking earl y often mea ns cheaper flig hts and mo re convenient departure d ates.

Free souvenir memento DVD

of To help capture your memories, and to give you easy access to photographs group your trip which might otherwise become locked inside a computer, on many departures we provide a digital camera for you to take on your trip. We will then send you a professionally produced photo-DVD of your holiday after you return.

How it works... 1. On some group trips we’ll arrange to have an easy-to-use digital camera sent to you by post, which will arrive well before your departure date, with a memory card already installed, three sets of batteries to keep you going, and full instructions on how to use the camera.

2. While you’re enjoying your family holiday you can pass the camera

around all your family members (big and small) and around the rest of the group too, so you’ll get a great variety of pictures. Think of it just like a camera left to pass around at a wedding.

3. When you return from your holiday, simply pop the camera back in its

box and post it to us free of charge using the pre-paid sticker provided. 4. In a few weeks time you’ll receive a professionally produced photo-DVD including all the pictures taken on your camera. You can use a regular DVD player to watch this on your TV just like watching a movie, or you can watch it on a DVD-enabled computer. We’ll also include another disc of all the original pictures, so you can edit them and share them with friends. picked at Please note: One camera per group trip will be sent to one travelling family on the trip random. This camera is for the shared use of everyone on the trip. All families ry service discretiona a is This disc. on images original and photo-DVD own their will receive the right which we may not always be able to provide due to camera availability. We reserve to use any images for marketing purposes.

Responsible travel Over the years, we’ve learned and gained so much from connecting with other cultures. It’s good to give something back in return so we often visit schools and projects which help local communities.

Family Adventure Pack Get your holiday off to the best start with our new Family Adventure Pack – worth up to £111. All the essentials are packed into a handy 10 litre dry store bag including:

Only £99

• First aid kit • 2 x compact soft fibre towels • Insect repellent • Suncream • Body wallet • Chlorine tablets • Fabric wash • Combi lock Simply contact us to purchase.

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FAMILIES

Talk to our specialist consultants:

01962 737 560

WORLDWIDE

0845 051 4567

ex p e r i e n ce yo u r wo r l d to g et h e r

Overseas tel: +44 (0)1962 737 560 Email: sales@familiesworldwide.co.uk Web: www.familiesworldwide.co.uk Fax: 0845 130 6984 Address: Long Barn South, Sutton Manor Farm, Bishop’s Sutton, Alresford, SO24 OAA, UK Open Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm

See our other great brochures! Adventure Worldwide

Chameleon Worldwide – The ultimate tailor-made specialist.

A collection of some of the most inspiring holidays in the world, planned by a team of travel professionals with over 25 years’ experience. Adventure, activity, cultural journeys, cycling, discovery, rafting, winter activities, wilderness and more.

We adapt to your interests, budget, tastes and choices...

Call Adventure Worldwide on 01962 737630 or 0845 304 8679 www.adventureworldwide.co.uk

Cultural experiences, wildlife safaris, deserts and wilderness, activity and adventure. Mid-range to luxury accommodation. All tailor-made for you. Call Chameleon Worldwide on 01962 737647 or 0845 304 8670 www.chameleonworldwide.co.uk

Schools Worldwide

Walks Worldwide

Offering a range of overseas adventures. From activity breaks to substantial expeditions for schools, colleges and youth groups. Life changing travel experiences for young people.

A mouth-watering selection of classic walks and treks around the world, for any active person of any age. Guided group departures, Self-Guided, Private Guided or Tailor-made. The ultimate choice of walking adventures.

Call Schools Worldwide on 01962 737648 or 0845 634 4670 www.schoolsworldwide.co.uk

Call Walks Worldwide on 01962 737565 or 0845 301 4737 www.walksworldwide.com

Follow us @familiesww Like us /familiesworldwide © CHAMELEON WORLDWIDE TRAVEL LTD 2014/15 No portion of this brochure may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Chameleon Worldwide Photographs: With thanks to our clients, staff and tourist offices


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