SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES for 18-35’s 2012/13 ASIA Inc. Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & China
THIS WAY TO AMAZING
THE ORIGINAL
SINCE ‘62 Celebrating 50 great years. See p.16
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> MEET CÉLINE Ms Cousteau talks oceans, Ghandi, and her family. See p.26
> MAIN COURSE Get ready to indulge in a taste of Asia. See p.13
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CONTENTS ASIA 2012/13> GREAT WALL OF CHINA
What’s What
BEIJING CHINA
02 04 06 07 08 09 10 12 13 14 15 17
Meet Contiki Experience Asia The Contiki way Why we’re different Explore more - free time Only Contiki includes more Meet the team & How we travel in Asia Where you stay Food in Asia Only Contiki Save with Contiki Join us online
XI’AN SHANGHAI China
GUILIN
YANGSHUO HONG KONG
VIETNAM
Indochina 18 19
Introducing Indochina Vietnam Highlights
20
Vietnam Experience
Vietnam HANOI
Halong Bay
PAKBENG LAOS Laos
10 days US$1149
CHIANG RAI
12 days US$1379
22
LUANG PRABANG
VANG VIENG VIENTIANE
CHIANG MAI
HUE
Asian Adventure 14 days US$1859
24
Da Nang
Big Indochina Adventure
THAILAND
Thailand
HOI AN
25 days US$3565
Thai Islands 28 29
BANGKOK
NHA TRANG
Cambodia CAMBODIA
Introducing the Thai Islands Thai Island Hopper West
PHNOM PENH KOH TAO
9 days US$869
30
SIEM REAP
Thai Island Hopper East
MEKONG DELTA
HO CHI MINH CITY
KOH PHA NGAN KOH SAMUI
9 days US$769
China
KRABI PHUKET
31 32
Introducing China China Adventure
KOH PHI PHI
12 days US$2665
Cool Stuff 16 26 27
The original since ‘62 Meet Céline Contiki cares
Other Stuff 34 35 36
Got a question? Booking conditions How to book
Need help finding your perfect trip? Scan to ask the Contiki genius
Meet us and other travelers online:
02-03 Why Contiki Asia_USD.indd 2
twitter.com/contiki_us
facebook.com/contiki
youtube.com/contikivacations
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www.contiki.com
02 | 03
The Original
Since ‘62 Exploring the world with Contiki is more than traveling - it’s about taking a journey. A journey where you’ll discover awe inspiring places & create unforgettable memories. A journey packed full of local culture, cool places & great people. An experience that will change your view on the world. It starts with people like you from around the world (Australia, Canada, UK, New Zealand, South Africa, Brazil & more) – people determined to get the most out of every minute. With See p.6-7 for more Contiki, you’ll discover the real Asia – the local cultures, the history, the incredible cuisine, the customs & most importantly, the local people themselves.
Small group adventures for 18-35’s.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-timer, with a group of friends or going solo, one thing’s for sure – when you travel with Contiki you’ll experience more. Our Asia tours include a host of extras, from exceptional accommodations & transportation to authentic local food & unique experiences that showcase Asia’s iconic sights & hidden gems. We provide local tour guides, offer fantastic optional activities & authentic ways to get around. You’ll have plenty of free time to experience Asia your way, make your own path & discover for yourself. Travel allows you to live the great story. Your journey to amazing awaits.
Start your story with us.
flickr.com/contikivacations
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We travel for the moments... Moments that make your jaw drop & your eyes widen, like the first time you watch the sunrise over the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, or walking in the footsteps of thousands past on the Great Wall of China. Some give you that “wow” moment, like staring out over the turquoise waters of Halong Bay from a traditional Junk Boat, or meeting the locals in the hutongs of Beijing. Others are a little more low-key, like taking a slow boat to the beaches of Koh Phi Phi or watching the Buddhist monks quietly stroll by in Luang Prabang.
These moments all come together to create your story… one that will live with you forever. It’s the cultural explosion that makes Asia so special - the local cultures & customs, the unbeatable food, the incredible variety of landscapes & the amazing characters that make each country so unique. It’s about widening your perspective on the world & coming home with your own story to tell... Your journey starts here...
Profile pic
Fast food 19:00: Nha Trang
11:23: Great Wall of China
Road trip 10:35: Luang Prabang
Main sail
07:14: Halong Bay
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UNESCO’s World Heritage sites Most Contiki Asia tours visit World Heritage sites, so look for the World Heritage symbol on the tour pages.
Island time
visit contiki.com/worldheritagelist to find out more
09:45: Koh Phi Phi
Local deli
Walk the line 12:57: Bangkok
High rise
06:00: Luang Prabang 11:15: Angkor Wat Scan to explore Asia with Contiki... Find out more at contiki.com/barcodes
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Asia is a mind-blowing experience, and exploring it with Contiki isn’t quite like anything else. Here’s why…
GO
Only Contiki
Get even more value with our “Only Contiki” special inclusions, like a private 2 day cruise along the Mekong River, a guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside or a cable car journey at the Great Wall of China . Check the “Only Contiki” section on the tour pages to see the included experiences.
See Asia your s way. No matter how you like to travel, we have trips to suit your style. Want an island getaway? Looking to explore it all? With 7 tours across 5 countries, whether you want a short getaway or you’ve got time for a long adventure, there’s a Contiki with your name on it.
More time to explore. No journey is complete without time to relax & find your own path, so we give you tons of free time to head out, create your own adventure & discover the real Asia. Relax, learn, go exploring or just chill. Plus, we provide plenty of ideas for some inspirational things to do. See p.8 for more.
Get more with Contiki. Getting the most out of your money when you travel is important, so we include more. More sights, more amazing accommodations, more activities, the best guides plus exclusive extras you can only get with us. The bottom line? You’ll get more incredible experiences traveling with Contiki.
We’re here for you. From our expert Tour Managers & Local Guides, to our customer service team, everyone at Contiki has one focus – to ensure your trip is amazing. Your dedicated Tour Manager is a passionate traveler who knows Asia like the back of their hand. To top it all off, our expert English-speaking Local Guides give you that essential insider’s view on the places you visit.
Amazing places to stay. With Contiki you’ll sleep easy each night knowing nearly all our stays are hotel accommodations. Plus, you’ll get to experience the real Asia with some authentic Junk Boat & guesthouse Special Stays. More on p.12.
Local know-how. When you travel, getting the local experience is essential. Whether it’s finding the best food vendor in Ho Chi Minh or the best spot to party in Koh Pha Ngan, we’ll show you the way.
Siem Reap
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Contiki
The
What makes us different? Contiki Asia is a way to travel unlike any other. > 10 ways to get around We love the local experience & with 10 ways to get around, you will too. You’ll get a real taste for how the locals get around with authentic rickshaw, cyclo, tuk tuk, boats, overnight train rides & more. To reduce traveling time, Contiki often includes internal flights to get you where you’re going faster, so there’s more time to explore. > Amazing accommodations You’ll travel in comfort knowing nearly all our stays are hotel accommodations (centrally located too). Think twin-share rooms with en-suites, TVs, air-conditioner, fluffy towels & in some places, pools & free WiFi. Traveling solo? We’ll match you up with a same sex room-mate.
Want more privacy? Opt for a ‘room to myself’ for a little extra. More on p.12. > Authentic experiences Get a real taste for Asia with overnight stays at locally owned guesthouses in Pakbeng & the Mekong Delta. Plus, experience a Junk Boat overnight on a stunning Junk Boat overnight on Halong Bay. More on p.12.
> Make a difference Wherever we can, Contiki supports & gives back to the local communities we visit. Like, visiting a center that helps the modern day victims of Lao’s Civil War or eating at restaurants that provide employment for the less fortunate.
> The perfect group size Our Asia trips average around 30 people per tour – small enough to be an intimate experience, but large enough to meet other like-minded travelers. Get ready to make new friends from around the world.
Locally guided bike tours Giving back
Private beach at Bay View Resort, Koh Phi Phi
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Chinese acrobat show, Shanghai
Day boat cruise, Koh Phi Phi
Explore more Make the most of your free time...
Kayaking, Bamboo Island
No journey is complete without some time to explore, relax & go your own way. When you travel with us, the only things that are fixed are your destinations. Want to venture out & explore the local markets, grab a bite & soak up the sun? Want to do something more active, or relax? The choice is yours. We plan our trips to ensure there’s tons of free time to explore the way you want, so you can dive head first into the buzz of Asia. Explore, hit the markets or the shops, or find a place to relax & people watch. Grab your camera & frame up some great shots, hit the beach or immerse yourself in the places you’re at. And on our tours we take it further. On each trip, for an additional cost, we’ve hand-picked some Explore More options, unique to the places you visit. They’re our tried & tested traveler favorites. Relax as you hit the islands of
Hit the streets & explore
Nha Trang & swim in the Kuang Si waterfalls in Laos or get a rich local experience as you learn to cook like a pro in Thailand, Vietnam or China. Other options will leave you amazed, like watching Chinese acrobats at a show in Shanghai, or catching the incredible underwater world as you snorkel off Koh Tao. Whatever you choose, you’ll get great prices & we’ll organize it all for you. Look out for the Explore More symbol on the tour pages & don’t forget your sense of adventure.
Boat cruise off Nha Trang / Swim in the blue waters of Kuang Si waterfall / Tall boat cruise & swimming off Koh Pha Ngan / Authentic Thai cooking experience / KOTO restaurant dinner in Hanoi / Impressions Liu Sanjie show / Cooking class in Hoi An / & many more...
Snorkelling cruise, Koh Tao
Visit the local markets
Swim in Kuang Si waterfall Vietnamese cooking class, Hoi An
Please note: Explore More optional activities are not included in the price of your tour. They are run by 3rd party operators & on occasions, for some activities, travelers may be required to sign a waiver to participate. Before you leave it’s important that you check your insurance includes your participation in adventure activities & be aware that some of our optionals can be physically demanding & therefore involve some risk.
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Only Contiki includes more... The Great Wall of China
Private two-day Mekong cruise Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
Traveling in Asia is an experience like no other. There’s so much to see & we make sure you experience it all. From iconic sights, like Halong Bay & Angkor Wat, to the authentic local experiences that make Asia so unique. We’ll show you more & give you the most bang for your buck - with Contiki you’ll get more included in your tour than going any other way. Asia’s best sights, all included:
Exclusive experiences:
From the big stuff, like Xi’an’s ancient city walls, the Royal Palace in Bangkok & Angkor Wat in Siem Reap – we’ll show you Asia’s iconic sights & the hidden gems too, so you’ll discover more.
With Contiki, you’ll get experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Think guided bike tours through the Vietnamese countryside, private cruises down the Mekong, a tour of the Forbidden City in Beijing & more.
Discover the real Asia:
Exceptional accommodations:
Experience Asia like a true local with guided bike tours, walking tours & traditional ways to get around. Our team takes you inside the real Asia with overnight stays in local guesthouses & experiences that give back to the local communities we visit.
Nearly all hotel accommodations means there’s no need to say goodbye to comfort. With twinshare or single room options available, the choice is yours. We also include some unique overnights, so you get a truly local experience.
The best team:
There’s no extra cost if you’re traveling solo & we include local taxes & charges in our prices. This all adds up to better value for you. More on p.14 .
Your Tour Manager & Local Guide are there to ensure your trip is amazing. Tour Managers take care of the details so your trip is hassle-free – everything from organizing sightseeing to finding the hotel, it’s their job, not yours. What’s more, our English-speaking Local Guides enrich your travel experience with priceless knowledge & unique local perspective.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Included highlights are shown on each tour page
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Better value:
Time to explore: Lots of time to explore means free time to get into the heart of Asia. Explore the way you want – relax, get off the beaten track & create your own adventure.
Definite departures Over 100 definite departures, with more added every week. Check your tour on contiki.com & look out for the definite departure symbol on the availability calendar.
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Meet the team The Contiki Difference Nothing’s better than traveling with a friend that knows Asia like the back of their hand. A friend who’s solely focused on making sure your trip is amazing. Contiki’s expert Tour Manager & Local Guide team have only one thing on their mind. You. Tuk tuks!
back & relax, knowing that choosing to travel Contiki means everything from finding your hotel, knowing the best local bars, negotiating border crossings & all the other details are their job – not yours. Our friendly English-speaking Local Guides complement our Tour Managers perfectly – they’ll give you that essential insider perspective, that only a local has. Their knowledge of where you visit (often their home) means you’ll learn even more.
Meet Johnny, one of our expert Local Guides
PROFILES
Contiki’s Tour Managers & Local Guides are you on-road dream team. We select the very best in the field and put them through the toughest training in the industry to ensure they’re able to make the cut for our tours. Your Tour Manager will fast track you to the must-see sights, open doors to authentic local experiences & are always happy to help. They’ll take you off the beaten path & into the real Asia all while making sure everything runs smoothly and hassle-free. You can sit
Chen
> CHEN, Local Guide, lives in Siem Reap I know… Siem Reap like the palm of my hand - I’ve lived here all my life. All… young travelers are different– I’ll show you what you want to see when you come to Siem Reap. I love Cambodia… especially Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat, the mountains & waterfalls.
> DAVE, Asia Manager, from Victoria, Australia Taste… as many different local foods in Asia as you can – you may never taste anything like them again. Believe…Travel broadens the mind – & can change your life. I love my job because…I never know who I’m going to meet or what curious surprises will be arriving around the next corner.
Dave
Meet Dave & Richie, two of our Contiki Asia team
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Johnny
> JOHNNY, Local Guide, lives in Luang Prabang I’ll… teach you about the the history & the culture of Laos. I’ve… trained for 5 years & I’ll help you find the things that are special to Luang Prabang. Taste… Luang Prabang’s food – it’s the best in Laos. I love Luang Prabang’s famous chilli sauce.
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Getting around With Contiki we mix it up - giving you a taste of how travel is really done in Asia. From included flights, 4-wheels, to 2-wheels, to no wheels (with paddles & outboard motors instead), there are up to 10 different types of transportation when you travel Contiki in Asia.
Private two-day Mekong cruise
Traveling in Asia is more than just a way to get around, it’s a social event. You’re never short of friends to hang out with – check out the views, listen to music or just chill. What’s even better is that we make getting around in Asia easy. We get you where you need to be, drop you right at your door & unload your bags so you can hit the ground running.
Cyclo ride
Longtail boats
Caption
Cycling tours
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We average around 30 people per group, so it’s a great size to get amongst it all. Internal flights, overnight trains, private minibuses, rickshaws, tuk-tuks, songtaews, long tail boats, bicycles, sampans (wooden canoes) & a traditional Chinese style junk boat are some of the ways you’ll travel. All these are chosen to make sure you get to places quickly & hassle-free in a fun & authentic way.
Sampan Mekong Delta
Ferry ride to Koh Phi Phi
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Sleep easy In comfort & style... Bay View Resort, Koh Phi Phi
Traditional Junk Boat, Halong Bay
Casa Angkor Hotel, Siem Reap
Sawaddi Patong Resort, Phuket
Accommodations on our Asia trips are nothing short of amazing. visit contiki.com/asia to find out more
Sawadee Patong Resort, Phuket
Nearly all hotel accommodations means a big yes on comfort, location & facilities – so you can travel in style. Hotels are centrally located meaning you’re where the action’s at and include all the facilities you love like en-suites, TV’s, air-conditioning & at times, pools & free WiFi. They’re the perfect place to relax.
Comfort close to the action In Bangkok we’re two minutes from Koh San Road, in Nha Trang we’re right by the beach, in Siem Reap we’re a 10 minute walk from Bar Street & in Hoi An we’re just minutes from the Old Town. It’s comfort right where you want to be.
Go local - Special Stay overnights On top of our fantastic hotels & resorts, we give you a taste of local overnight experiences, like overnight trains and guesthouses in Pakbeng & the Mekong Delta. We also get you out on the water, with a stunning overnight cruise on a traditional Chinese style Junk Boat in Halong Bay. Check out the tour pages for more.
Going solo?
Visoun Namsok Hotel, Luang Prabang
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We don’t charge solo supplements for solo travelers - we’ll match you up with a same sex room-mate. Or, if you prefer more privacy, for a small ‘room to myself’ supplement, it’s all yours.
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Your breakfast is included every day, as are many of your evening meals, but we don’t include every meal for a reason. Asia has some of the best food in the world, from street market specialities, to local delicacies you’ll never experience anywhere else. It’s your chance to really indulge. With our team on hand to point you in the direction of some great, authentic restaurants & street foods, we keep things flexible so you can branch out & make your own discoveries. We’ve handpicked some of our favorites for each & every included dinner. Think home cooked Chinese
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specialities to Goi Cuon washed down with a Bia hoi in Vietnam. We take it a step further on our trips, by supporting restaurants that give back in the local communities by providing employment to the less fortunate. On our optional nights out, there’s even more to tempt you – delicious Peking Duck, a dumpling banquet, cooking classes in Hoi An, Thailand or Yangshuo (feast on the results). We’re pretty good at catering to special dietary requirements too – just let us know when you book & we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Taste Asia
There’s no better place to indulge in authentic local cuisine than Asia. From fresh Amok curry in Cambodia, Goi Cuon in Vietnam, to authentic Thai favorites, you’ll discover what makes Asian cuisine so spectacular.
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Only Contiki When you travel Asia with Contiki you see more, experience more & get more for your money
The original since ‘62 Because we’ve been doing what we do longer than anyone else, we can show you Asia like nobody else. We live & breathe it - our experience means that you get the most amazing, authentic, life-changing experiences for 18-35’s.
Travel your way Whether you’re looking for a long trip or quick get-away, if you’re a first timer or a seasoned traveler, going solo or with a group of friends, you’ll find your perfect Asia trip with Contiki. With tours in Indochina, the Thai Islands & China, there’s always a trip to suit your style.
More free time & optional activities We build in tons of free time so you can explore on your own if you want. Free time means time to head off & get local. We’ve also organized a whole bunch of amazing optional activities for you to try if you’d like. It’s your choice. Our Tour Managers take care of all the details (not you), so you’ll get the most out of your trip.
Unbeatable value More sights, more activities, more free time, more definite departures & more amazing accommodations. Plus, a host of exclusive experiences that you only get with us. The bottom line? Go Contiki - you’ll get more than going any other way.
Extraordinary service When it comes to crew, we lead. Our team is the biggest, the best trained & the most committed to delivering amazing experiences, tailored especially for 18-35’s.
Amazing accommodations Hotel accommodations are centrally located & comfortable with air-conditioning & at times, pools & WiFi. We include some extra special overnights too, so you can really experience the local lifestyle.
Great ways to get around We include domestic flights, so you see more & get more time in the places that count. Plus, when you’re on land it’s mostly private transportation & other unique ways to get around like trains, traditional Junk boats, long tail boats, tuk-tuks & more.
Incredible food Nobody does food like Contiki. Breakfast is included every day. We also include many authentic meal experiences so you can try Asia’s incredible variety of food. Plus, we include lots of free meal time so you can experience more of what you like, your way. More on p.13.
This way to amazing. What does all this add up to? The most amazing travel experience, tailored specifically for you.
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Save
Scan to view our latest deals... Find out more at contiki.com/barcodes
with Contiki We know the importance of hard earned money ,so we have plenty of deals to help your money go further. Pay Early
$
SAV E
Book early & save up to US$309* if you book & pay 12 months before you leave, or save up to US$155* if you book & pay 6 months before you leave. See tour pages to find out your pay early discount. * Pay Early Savings of US$309 & US$155 based on Big Indochina Adventure.
Book with Friends We believe in “the more the merrier!”. So, the more buddies you round up, the more you save.
4 or more Everyone saves 5% 7 or more Everyone saves 7.5% 10 or more Everyone saves 10%, or invite an 11th for free! The facts: All these discounts apply to the land portion of the total tour price only. You can combine group discounts, multi-tour discounts & early payment discounts on tours of 7 days or longer. In calculating applicable discounts the land portion of the tour price excludes any included flight/airfare costs, air taxes, surcharges & port taxes. External flights to & from the start & finish locations of the tour are not included in the tour price nor are they applicable for any of the above discounts.
Our top 5 saving tips 1
Buy your next outfit at your local consignment shop.
Traveling Again? If you’ve traveled with us before, we’d like to welcome you back with a 5% discount. Plus, we can hook you up with discounts with our sister companies as well. See p.34 for more.
2
2 or More
3
Book 2 or more Contiki tours (of 7 days or more from any of our destinations) at the same time to save US$100 for each additional tour you book. So continue your vacation with another tour in Asia or consider Europe, North America, New Zealand, Australia or South America.
US$20 Million Customer Protection The traveling public has always been concerned about the protection of their advanced bookings. As part of Contiki’s commitment to providing our customers with peace of mind in all dealings with Contiki, Travcorp Financial Services Limited has provided a letter of credit to Contiki for US$20 Million with respect to all customers traveling with Contiki.
Mix it up & see more While you’re in this part of the world, take time to see even more of Asia with Contiki - many of our tours & dates easily link with our other Asia trips. Our China tour easily links with our Big Indochina, Asian Adventure & Vietnam tours. Fly Hong Kong to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh & experience even more. Or, after our Asian Adventure trip, why not chill out on island time & fly to Koh Samui or Phuket to take one of our 2 great-value Thai Island hoppers? Speak to Contiki to see what tours easily link up, or visit your travel agent for more.
Go Vintage. Ride a bike to work. Save money on transportation costs (plus you’ll get fit & help the environment too!)
Cut the credit. Stick a picture of your next vacation spot on your credit card. When you go to use it next, you’ll think twice.
4
Got skills? Why not take it to the streets & try street performing.
5
Go back to basics. Save money on fruits & veggies & grow your own. Got your own tip on how to save? Tell us about it at facebook.com/contiki
The Original Since ’62 We’re the original travel company for 18-35s - we’ve been traveling the world with people like you for 50 years. The old combi vans have long since been replaced, but some things will never change. Our spirit of adventure lives on. We’re a bunch of young travelers who are still as passionate about discovering new things across the globe today as we’ve ever been. But we’re nothing without our fellow travelers - you are Contiki & we’d love you to write the next chapter of our story... Love it retro? Check out three of our favorite old logos from the Contiki archives…
Win
Happy birthday to us. And to celebrate, presents for you. It’s true, time flies when you’re having fun. This year we’re celebrating sharing the good times and want to give our travelers a chance to get their hands on some presents. We’re giving away free trips, goodies & plenty more.
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Register today to find out how you can win. We have so much planned, so fasten your seat belts & get ready. Register at contiki.com/since 62
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$
Get connected Join the Contiki community to create a personal profile, plan your trip, save articles & share your travel experiences. You’ll also get access to our discussion forums where you can chat to past travelers & our super-knowledgeable Contiki Team for lots of handy traveling tips & advice. Plus, head to our meeting place & chat with your tour mates before you leave.
Contiki Part Pay
Your e-brochure
Got an upcoming birthday, graduation or special event? Sign up for Contiki Part Pay & ask your family & friends to give towards your travels (what could be a better present than that!) Plus, you can use Part Pay to make payments yourself, allowing you to budget your savings to pay off your trip.
Create your own personalized Contiki e-brochure. Simply choose the tours you want to compare from the search results, name your e-brochure & then you can either download it to keep, or share on Facebook or Twitter – easy! Build yours at contiki.com/brochures
Find out more contiki.com/partpay Join up contiki.com/community
Join us online... Whatever you’re looking for your search starts at contiki.com Get more info on our Asia tours or use our trip finder to find your perfect trip. Our tour pages have past traveler reviews, interactive route maps, the ability to compare tours & you can check live availability & definite departures.
Contiki Reviews Win a tour - share your review & win a Contiki trip. Don’t just take our word for it, check out our tour reviews & see what our past travelers have to say about our trips. Plus, once you get back from your tour, leave a review & you could win your next trip on us! Find out more contiki.com/reviews
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Not sure what trip to choose?
Check-in Already booked? Don’t forget to check-in for your tour – it only takes 5 mins. As well as saving you time & paperwork on the first day of your trip, it makes sure we have important contact information on file should we need to contact you.
Compare tours on our website, post to Facebook & let your friends vote & help you decide. Simply select on search page to compare up to 5 tours.
Get in touch Don’t miss our latest updates, deals or giveaways. Our team is here to answer questions, give advice & talk & share all things Contiki.
Check-in contiki.com/checkin Join Us
twitter.com/contiki_us
facebook.com/contiki
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Indochina Tours
4
Indochina tours to choose from
Ancient history, incredible landscapes & friendly locals mixed with temples, beaches & monuments make Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Thailand hard to beat. From the Mekong, to Halong Bay, to busy city vibes, experience it all on our great value tours that bring you face to face with Indochina’s best.
$
REMEMBER If you book early you save money!
We’re always adding more departure dates for tours, so keep an eye on contiki.com for more.
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• INCLUDES: THAILAND CAMBODIA LAOS VIETNAM
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contiki.com/vietnam-highlights
Vietnam Highlights
Vietnam Highlights 10 Days What’s Included:
10 Days 1 Country
China
VIETNAM
Vietnam HANOI 2
Halong Bay
1
Vietnam
9 nights accommodation: 8 nights in 3 star hotels 1 overnight cruise (more on p.12) 13 meals: 9 breakfasts (B) 2 lunches (L) 2 dinners (D)
Laos
US$1149pp US$115 per day
An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides
1 HUE Da Nang
Thailand
2 HOI AN
NHA TRANG 2
Cambodia
Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes, payments & service charges 3 internal flights Transportation & included sightseeing
HO CHI MINH CITY 1
Places visited Nightstops Special stay night
Halong Bay
Itinerary & sightseeing Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Formerly known as Saigon, cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh is action packed. Tonight meet your Tour Manager & fellow travelers at the hotel before visiting Ben Thanh markets. Hotel Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang Take a tour of the city hotspots before catching a flight to the beach paradise of Nha Trang. Hotel (B) View the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office & Presidential Palace Visit to the War Remnants Museum
• •
tour through the Old Quarter then some free time, or opt for a cooking class tonight! Hotel (B) Visit the town’s Old Quarter & Japanese covered bridge
Day 7: Hue to Hanoi Our morning begins with a flight to Hanoi & a visit to the temple of Literature. Hotel (B) Visit the Temple of Literature
Day 5: Hoi An Maybe visit the temples of My Son, ride a bike down to the beach or use the day to explore the town. Hotel (B)
Day 8: Hanoi to Halong Bay Today it’s on to Halong Bay for our overnight Junk Boat cruise. Junk boat Special Stay (B,L,D) Visit the Sung Sot Caves Boat cruise of a grotto island
•
Day 6: Hoi An to Hue Enjoy stunning views while driving over the “Pass of the Ocean Clouds” to Hue. Visit the famous city sights before dinner at a family-run restaurant. Hotel (B,D) Cross the Hai Van Pass Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda & the Imperial Citadel Cyclo ride
•• •
• ••
Day 9: Halong Bay to Hanoi Wake to fantastic views from the junk before we return to Hanoi. Hotel (B,L) Day 10: Depart Hanoi Your tour ends after breakfast, so it’s time to say farwell to your group. (B)
Day 3: Nha Trang Sink into the laid-back beach lifestyle with a free day. Do your own thing or take off to the gorgeous offshore islands on an optional cruise! Hotel (B) Day 4: Nha Trang to Hoi An Fly to Danang & travel down to Hoi An. Enjoy a guided city
Hoi An
Explore more: optional activities Nah Trang Relaxing island cruise with swim stops & snorkelling Hoi An Authentic Vietnamese cooking class • Guided tour of My Son Temples Hue Group photo at Hue’s Imperial Citadel Hanoi A chance to enjoy a farewell dinner at KOTO restaurant where former disadvantaged youth are trained in hospitality Visit contiki.com/vietnam-highlights-explore-more for all the optional activities you can do
18-19 Indochina Intro - Viet H'lights_USD.indd 3
SOUTH CHINA SEA
GO
Code: VIHI 2011/12/13 Start Ho Chi Mihn
Finish Hanoi
Total Cost US$ pp
Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan
7 14 21 24 28 4
1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149
2012 Jan 2 Jan 11 Jan 9 Jan 18 Jan 13 Jan 22 Jan 16 ● Jan 25 Jan 23 ● Feb 1 Jan 30 Feb 8 Feb 6 Feb 15 Feb 9 Feb 18 Feb 13 Feb 22 Feb 20 Feb 29 Feb 27 Mar 7 Mar 5 Mar 14 Mar 12 Mar 21 Mar 19 Mar 28 Apr 2 Apr 11 Apr 9 Apr 18 Apr 16 Apr 25 Apr 30 May 9 May 7 May 16 May 14 May 23 May 28 Jun 6 Jun 4 Jun 13 Jun 11 Jun 20 Jun 25 Jul 4 Jul 2 Jul 11 Jul 9 Jul 18
1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149
2011 Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
28 5 12 15 19 26
Start Ho Chi Mihn
Finish Hanoi
Total Cost US$ pp
Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
1 8 15 29 5 12 26 3 7 14 21 28 5 12 19 22 26 2 9
1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149
2013 Jan 7 Jan 16 Jan 10 Jan 19 Jan 14 Jan 23 Jan 21 Jan 30 Jan 28 Feb 6 Feb 4 ● Feb 13 Feb 7 ● Feb 16 Feb 11 Feb 20 Feb 18 Feb 27 Feb 25 Mar 6 Mar 4 Mar 13 Mar 11 Mar 20 Mar 18 Mar 27
1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149 1149
2012 Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
23 30 6 20 27 3 17 24 29 5 12 19 26 3 10 13 17 24 31
Only Contiki includes
• Guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside • Cyclo ride to Hue’s Citadel • Traditional Vietnamese meal at a local restaurant • English-speaking Local Guide • All private coach transportation
Plus
Plus Unique Special Stays
• Junk Boat in Halong Bay
$
SAV E Pay 12 months in advance you save US$95. Or pay 6 months in advance you save US$49. See p.15 for details.
3 World Heritage sites visited
The above prices include internal airfares & are accurate as of 10th October, 2011. For up-to-date pricing please go to contiki.com/vietnam-highlights. Included flights: Prices above include the land tour & internal flights as specified on the map only & do not include international airfares to or from the tour start & end cities. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.34 for important info. Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re traveling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. A single room supplement is available for US$310 (only applicable in hotels). A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Tour starts at 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. ● These tours will be in Vietnam for Tet – Vietnamese New Year. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information see p.34.
28/10/2011 12:08
Vietnam Experience 12 Days 1 Country Vietnam
US$1379pp US$115 per day
GO
China VIETNAM
China
Vietnam HANOI 2
Only Contiki includes
• Guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside • Cyclo ride to Hue’s ancient Citadel • Visit the Cu Chi tunnels • Expert English-speaking Local Guide • All private coach transportation
Halong Bay
1 Laos
Plus 1 HUE
Plus Unique Special Stays
• Guest house in the Mekong Delta • Chinese style Junk Boat in Halong Bay
Da Nang
Thailand
2 HOI AN
Plus
Plus Regional Dinners
• Traditional Vietnamese meal at a local family-run restaurant Cambodia
2 NHA TRANG
2 HO CHI MINH CITY
Places visited Nightstops Special stay nights
20-21 Vietnam Experience_USD.indd 2
MEKONG DELTA 1
SOUTH CHINA SEA
Explore more: optional activities Nah Trang Relaxing island cruise with swim stops & snorkelling Hoi An Authentic & tasty Vietnamese cooking class • Guided tour of My Son Temples Hue Group photo at Hue’s Imperial Citadel Visit contiki.com/vietnam-experience-explore-more for all the optional activities you can do
28/10/2011 11:59
20 | 21
contiki.com/vietnam-experience DON’T MISS
sarah_ blue3: Absolute best trip ever! Would definitely go on another Contiki after this!
Vietnam on your mind? Cruise the delta, see floating markets, cycle around Hoi An & experience the best of Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi & Hue. Raise the relaxation vibes in Nha Trang, hit Halong Bay in a Junk Boat & see why this place is truly a country where East meets West.
A legendary Vietnamese Bánh mì sub sandwich. Famous around the world & packed with all kinds of edible goodness – they’re a must try.
Vietnam Experience 12 Days What’s Included:
Itinerary & sightseeing Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Formerly known as Saigon, cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh is packed with scooters, roadside shops, high-rises & reminders of the Vietnam war. Tonight meet your Tour Manager & fellow travelers at the hotel. Tantalize the tastebuds as you hit the thriving Ben Thanh markets – you can pick up anything from tasty local foods to Vietnam’s iconic conical hats. Hotel Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta It’s a 2 day journey into the Mekong Delta. We’ll try out sampans (local boats), take in local industries & see floating markets – giving a glimpse of everyday waterway life. Tonight, see a musical performance before dinner at our local guest house. Guest house Special Stay (B,L,D) Mekong Delta cruise See local demonstrations Visit a local tea garden
•• •
Day 3: Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City We head back to Ho Chi Minh City via the Viet Cong’s legendary tunnels in Cu Chi. See traps, hidden doors & over 155 miles of tunnels that Vietnamese resistance fighters dug by hand – you can even go down into the skinny tunnels & experience them first-hand! Hotel (B) Visit to the Cu Chi tunnels
•
Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang View the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office & the Presidential (or Reunification) Palace on our city tour. We also
Halong Bay
20-21 Vietnam Experience_USD.indd 3
visit the War Remnants Museum for some history on the Vietnam War. Explore the city before catching a flight to Nha Trang, famous for its golden beaches & idyllic turquoise waters. Hotel (B) View the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office & Presidential Palace Visit to the War Remnants Museum
• •
Day 5: Nha Trang Sink into the laid-back beach lifestyle with a free day to enjoy the sun & sea. Do your own thing or take off to the gorgeous offshore islands on our optional cruise with swim stops, snorkelling & banquet lunch. Afterwards perhaps indulge in a mineral mud bath & hot springs experience before getting a taste of Nha Trang by night! Hotel (B) Day 6: Nha Trang to Hoi An Fly to Danang & travel down to Hoi An. We take a guided walking tour through the Old Quarter, before some free time. Explore this city, known for it’s colorful cloths & tailors who make to order. Then taste why Vietnamese food has such a good reputation with an optional cooking class. Hotel (B) Visit the town’s Old Quarter & Japanese covered bridge
•
Day 7: Hoi An Maybe visit the temples of My Son, ride a bike down to the beach or use the day to explore the town. Otherwise relax or walk along the waterfront to the local markets. Hotel (B)
How much & when Day 8: Hoi An to Hue There are stunning coastal views while driving over the “Pass of the Ocean Clouds” to the former Royal City of Hue. Visit the 7-storied Thien Mu Pagoda before dinner at a family-run restaurant. Hotel (B,D) Cross the Hai Van Pass Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda & the Imperial Citadel Cyclo ride
•• •
Day 9: Hue to Hanoi Our morning begins with a flight to Hanoi & a visit to the temple of Literature. Hotel (B) Visit the Temple of Literature
•
Day 10: Hanoi to Halong Bay Today we board a traditional junk boat on Halong Bay for our overnight cruise. See amazing views as we pass hidden coves, sheer cliffs & legendary scenery. We check out the Sung Sot Caves & stop for a swim in an idyllic lagoon before docking for sunset. Junk boat Special Stay (B,L,D) Visit the Sung Sot Caves Boat cruise of a grotto island
••
Day 11: Halong Bay to Hanoi Wake to more fantastic views from the junk before we return to Hanoi. Later you could try Hanoi’s world-famous water puppet performance before a chance to enjoy a farewell dinner at KOTO restaurant, where former disadvantaged youth are trained in hospitality skills. Hotel (B,L) Day 12: Depart Hanoi Your tour ends after breakfast, so it’s time to say farwell to your group. (B)
Code: VIEP 2011/12/13 Start Ho Chi Mihn
Finish Hanoi
Total Cost US$ pp
Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
7 14 21 24 28 4 11
1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379
2012 Jan 7 Jan 18 Jan 11 Jan 22 Jan 14 ● Jan 25 Jan 21 ● Feb 1 Jan 28 Feb 8 Feb 4 Feb 15 Feb 7 Feb 18 Feb 11 Feb 22 Feb 18 Feb 29 Feb 25 Mar 7 Mar 3 Mar 14 Mar 10 Mar 21 Mar 17 Mar 28 Mar 31 Apr 11 Apr 7 Apr 18 Apr 14 Apr 25 Apr 28 May 9 May 5 May 16 May 12 May 23 May 26 Jun 6 Jun 2 Jun 13 Jun 9 Jun 20 Jun 23 Jul 4 Jun 30 Jul 11 Jul 7 Jul 18 Jul 21 Aug 1
1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379
2011 Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
26 3 10 13 17 24 31
Start Ho Chi Mihn
Finish Hanoi
Total Cost US$ pp
Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
8 15 29 5 12 26 3 7 14 21 28 5 12 19 22 26 2 9
1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379
2013 Jan 5 Jan 16 Jan 8 Jan 19 Jan 12 Jan 23 Jan 19 Jan 30 Jan 26 Feb 6 Feb 2 ● Feb 13 Feb 5 ● Feb 16 Feb 9 ● Feb 20 Feb 16 Feb 27 Feb 23 Mar 6 Mar 2 Mar 13 Mar 9 Mar 20 Mar 16 Mar 27 Mar 30 Apr 10
1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379
2012 Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
28 4 18 25 1 15 22 27 3 10 17 24 1 8 11 15 22 29
The above prices include internal airfares & are accurate as of 10th October, 2011. For up-to-date pricing please go to contiki.com/vietnam-experience. Included flights: Prices above include the land tour & internal flights as specified on the map only & do not include international airfares to or from the tour start & end cities. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.34 for important info. Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re traveling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. A single room supplement is available for US$359 (only applicable in hotels). A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Tour starts at 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. ● These tours will be in Vietnam for Tet – Vietnamese New Year For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information see p.34.
Vietnamese cooking class
11 nights accommodation: 9 nights in 3 star hotels 1 night in a guest house 1 overnight cruise (more on p.12) 17 meals: 11 breakfasts (B) 3 lunches (L) 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes, payments & service charges 3 internal flights Transportation & included sightseeing
$
SAV E Pay 12 months in advance you save US$115. Or pay 6 months in advance you save US$59. See p.15 for details.
3 World Heritage sites visited
Hue
Cu Chi Tunnels
28/10/2011 11:59
Asian Adventure 14 Days 3 Countries Thailand, Laos, Cambodia
US$1859pp US$133 per day
Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang
China China
PAKBENG 1
• Private 2 day boat cruise along the Mekong River • Forest elephant ride • Locally guided bike tour of World Heritage listed Luang Prabang • Guided visit of the COPE support & rehab center • Expert English-speaking Local Guide • All private coach transportation
2 LUANG PRABANG LAOS
CHIANG RAI 1
2 VANG VIENG VIENTIANE 1
CHIANG MAI 1
Only Contiki includes
VIETNAM Vietnam
Burma
GO
SOUTH CH CHINA SEA
Plus
Plus Unique Special Stays
• Guest house stay in Pakbeng 1 BANGKOK 1
THAILAND
Plus
SIEM REAP 2
Plus Regional Dinners
• Modern Laotian meal at a restaurant that trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality CAMBODIA
Explore more: optional activities 1 PHNOM PENH
Places visited Nightstops Special stay night
22-23 Asian Adventure_USD.indd 2
Bangkok Group photo at Bangkok’s Grand Palace Chiang Mai Hands-on Thai cooking class experience Chiang Rai Visit to unique Thai hill tribe villages Luang Prabang Kuang Si Waterfalls trip & swimming Visit contiki.com/asian-adventure-explore-more for all the optional activities you can do
28/10/2011 11:57
22 | 23
contiki.com/asian-adventure DON’T MISS
Olivia B: I would strongly recommend this tour to anyone contemplating a trip to Asia. There’s so much to see that’s not mentioned in the itinerary. I had the absolute time of my life!
Experience the best of Thailand, Laos & Cambodia on this epic trip! From busy Bangkok, the chilled Mekong with its sugar fields & coconut palms, to French influenced Luang Prabang, finish it up with cool Cambodia for a serious historical fix.
Sunset at Utopia Restaurant in Luang Prabang. The views over the Mekong make it the perfect place to have a drink & watch the stunning sunset.
Asian Adventure 14 Days What’s Included:
Itinerary & sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Bangkok Tuk-tuks, streetside BBQs, neon lights & buzzing street life, it’s bustling Bangkok! Arrive at the hotel & meet your Tour Manager & fellow travelers, then hit the city for a night out. Hotel Day 2: Bangkok to Chiang Mai Visit the incredible Royal Palace & Emerald Buddha Temple. Later, cruise the klongs (canals) & see locals going about their day then dive into the downtown area’s plazas, or shops in Siam Square. Try Chinatown for some Asian delicacies before we board an overnight train to Chiang Mai. Overnight train (B) Visit the Royal Palace & Emerald Buddha Guided klong (canal) tour
• •
Day 3: Chiang Mai Head for the hills with our Local Guide & maybe even receive a Buddhist blessing! Surrounded by a moat & 300 temples, chill out & explore Chiang Mai. You could take an optional Thai cooking class tonight, chill by the pool or visit the famous Night Bazaar. Hotel (B) Visit Wat Phrathat Temple
•
Day 4: Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Today we head towards Chiang Rai. In the afternoon, opt to visit unique hill tribe villages before heading back to Chiang Rai to explore or check out a local night stop. Hotel (B) Day 5: Chiang Rai to Pakbeng After crossing the Thai/Laos border, we board our private boat & cruise the mighty Mekong River. Drift through towering, jungle covered gorges, seeing local life in remote villages along the river banks. We arrive before sunset in Pakbeng for our overnight stay. Guest house Special Stay (B,L,D)
Hill tribe visit, Chiang Rai
22-23 Asian Adventure_USD.indd 3
•
See local riverside villages
Day 6: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang Continue cruising the Mekong before arriving in the historic hotspot Luang Prabang. Take a bike tour around town, visit Wat Xiang Thong monastery & perhaps take a walk up Mt Phu Si before perusing the night markets where local people sell their textiles & handicrafts. Hotel (B,L) Visit the Pak Ou Caves Visit Wat Xieng Thong temple
••
Day 7: Luang Prabang If you make an early start, take part in the ritual of offering alms (food) to the hundreds of Buddhist monks. If you feel like cooling off, take a trip to the Kuang Si waterfalls for a swim or visit the Royal Palace. Hotel (B) Forest elephant ride
•
Day 8: Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Today it’s on to riverside & action packed Vang Vieng, known for its dramatic limestone karsts (rock formations) & outdoor adventure activities. Later, check out the buzzing nightlife in this vibrant backpacker town. Hotel (B) Scenic drive to Vang Vieng
•
Day 9: Vang Vieng Get hold of a map & explore with a free day. Maybe hire a bike – there’s an array of limestone caves, swimming holes, tunnels & bunkers to discover. Tonight, watch the sunset at a riverside bar or an island watering-hole. Hotel (B) Day 10: Vang Vieng to Vientiane Arriving in Vientiane, we’ll take a locally guided tour of the nation’s French influenced capital. Later, we’ll visit That Luang & view Laos’ ‘Arc de Triomphe’. Hotel (B,D)
How much & when
•• •
Visit Luang Stupa & Patuxi Visit to COPE exhibition center Dinner at Makphet Restaurant
Day 11: Vientiane to Phnom Penh Goodbye Laos & hello Cambodia as you travel by plane to the capital city, once known as the “Pearl of Asia”. View first hand the reminders of the country’s dark history with a visit to the Khmer Rouge ‘Killing Fields’ & the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Tonight wrap up the day with some friends at one of the many riverside restaurants or cafes. Hotel (B) Visit the ‘Killing Fields’ & Genocide Museum
•
Day 12: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Catch a flight to Siem Reap before taking a private boat cruise to see the unique floating villages found here. Chill out with a visit to the Psar Chas (old market) for handicrafts & exotic fresh produce. Or for a dose of culture, see an Aspara dance performance. Hotel (B) Tonle Sap Lake cruise
•
Day 13: Siem Reap Wake to watch the sun rise over Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world & hear the legends of the sacred sites of the Khmer Empire from your Local Guide. Later, we visit Angkor Thom by tuk-tuk & Ta Prohm temple, as seen in the movie Tomb Raider. After a long day of sights relax, play some pool, or venture down Pub Street to explore the nightlife. Hotel (B) Visit Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom & Ta Prohm
•
Day 14: Ends Siem Reap Our tour ends this morning after breakfast so it’s time to say goodbye to your group & Tour Manager. (B)
Code: ASAD 2011/12/13 Start Bangkok
Finish Total Siem Reap Cost US$ pp
2011 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859
2012 Jan 1 Jan 14 Jan 8 Jan 21 Jan 15 Jan 28 Jan 22 Feb 4 Jan 25 Feb 7 Jan 29 Feb 11 Feb 5 Feb 18 Feb 12 Feb 25 Feb 19 Mar 3 Feb 26 Mar 10 Mar 4 Mar 17 Mar 18 Mar 31 Mar 25 Apr 7 Apr 1 Apr 14 Apr 8 ● Apr 21 Apr 15 Apr 28 Apr 22 May 5 Apr 29 May 12 May 13 May 26 May 20 Jun 2 May 27 Jun 9 Jun 10 Jun 23 Jun 17 Jun 30 Jun 24 Jul 7 Jul 8 Jul 21 Jul 15 Jul 28 Jul 22 Aug 4
1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859
30 4 11 18 25 29
Finish Total Siem Reap Cost US$ pp
2012 13 17 24 31 7 11
Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
Start Bangkok
Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
18 25 1 15 22 29 13 10 17 24 1 8 11 15 22 29 5 8 12
1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859
2013 Jan 6 Jan Jan 13 Jan Jan 20 Feb Jan 23 Feb Jan 27 Feb Feb 3 Feb Feb 10 Feb Feb 17 Mar Feb 24 Mar Mar 3 Mar Mar 17 Mar Mar 24 Apr Mar 31 Apr Apr 7 ● Apr
19 26 2 5 9 16 23 2 9 16 30 6 13 20
1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859 1859
Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
5 12 19 2 9 16 30 28 4 11 18 25 28 2 9 16 23 26 30
The above prices include airfares & are accurate as of 10th October, 2011. For up-to-date pricing please go to contiki.com/asian-adventure. Included flights: Prices above include the land tour & internal/international flights as specified on the map only & do not include international airfares to or from the tour start & end cities. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.34 for important info. Prices above are based on twin-share (multi-share on train). If you’re traveling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. A single room supplement is available for US$455 (only applicable in hotels). A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Tour starts at 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. ● These tours will be in Laos for Laos New Year & Water Festival For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information see p.34.
13 nights accommodation: 11 nights in 3 star hotels 1 night in a guest house 1 overnight train (more on p.12) 17 meals: 13 breakfasts (B) 2 lunches (L) 2 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes, payments & service charges 2 internal flights Transportation & included sightseeing
$
SAV E Pay 12 months in advance you save US$159. Or pay 6 months in advance you save US$79. See p.15 for details.
2 World Heritage sites visited
Angkor Wat
Kuang Si waterfalls in Laos
That Luang Stupa, Vientiane
28/10/2011 11:57
Big Indochina Adventure 25 Days 4 Countries Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam
US$3565pp US$143 per day
Tuk tuks, Luang Prabang
GO China
China VIETNAM
PAKBENG 1
Vietnam 2 HANOI LUANG PRABANG 2
Halong Bay
1
Laos LAOS
CHIANG RAI 1
2 VANG VIENG VIENTIANE 1
CHIANG MAI 1
1 HUE
Only Contiki includes
• Private 2 day boat cruise along the Mekong River • Forest elephant ride • Locally guided bike tour of World Heritage listed Luang Prabang • Guided visit of the COPE support & rehab center • Modern Laotian meal at a restaurant that trains disadvantaged youth • Guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside • Cyclo ride to Hue’s ancient Citadel • Visit the Cu Chi tunnels • Expert English-speaking Local Guide • All private coach transportation
Da Nang
THAILAND Thailand
2 HOI AN
Plus
Plus Unique Special Stays
11 BANGKOK 1
SIEM CAMBODIA REAP 2 Cambodia
1 PHNOM PENH
2 NHA TRANG
2 HO CHI MINH CITY
MEKONG DELTA 1 SOUTH CHINA SEA
Places visited Nightstops Special stay nights
24-25 Indochina Adventure_USD.indd 2
• Guest house in the Mekong Delta • Guest house stay in Pakbeng • Chinese style Junk Boat in Halong Bay
Explore more: optional activities Bangkok Group photo at the Grand Palace Chiang Mai Hands-on Thai cooking class experience Chiang Rai Visit to unique Thai hill tribe villages Luang Prabang Kuang Si Waterfalls trip Nha Trang Relaxing island cruise with swim stops & snorkelling Hoi An Authentic Vietnamese cooking class • Guided tour of My Son Temples Visit contiki.com/indochina-adventure-explore-more for all the optional activities you can do
28/10/2011 12:01
24 | 25
contiki.com/indochina-adventure RANDOM FACT
Courtney: Great way to travel, our guide was so much fun & we saw some amazing places. Would go back in a heart beat!
Go all out on the Big Indo. From busy cities, chilled countrysides & stunning beaches to historical sites, you’ll get it all in 25 days. With the perfect mix of action & adventure blended with the ideal amount of relaxing - this trip is set to amaze.
Make a splash! To celebrate the New Year (in April!), the people of Thailand & Laos hit the streets to take part in the world’s largest water festival.
Big Indochina Adventure 25 Days What’s Included:
Itinerary & sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Bangkok Tuk-tuks, neon lights & buzzing street life, it’s bustling Bangkok! Arrive at the hotel & meet your Tour Manager & fellow travelers, then hit the city for a night out. Hotel Day 2: Bangkok to Chiang Mai Take in the sights before we cruise the canals & see locals going about their day before boarding our overnight train. Overnight train (B) Visit the Royal Palace & Emerald Buddha Guided klong (canal) tour
• •
Day 3: Chiang Mai Visit Buddhist temples with our local guide, then explore the city or opt for a Thai cooking class tonight. Hotel (B) Visit Wat Prathat temple
•
Day 4: Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai We head towards Chiang Rai, there’s an option to visit unique hill tribe villages before exploring the city’s famous Night Bazaar. Hotel (B) Day 5: Chiang Rai to Pakbeng After crossing the Thai/Laos border, we board our private boat & cruise the Mekong River, seeing local life along the river. Arrive before sunset in Pakbeng for our overnight stay. Guest house Special Stay (B,L,D) See local riverside villages
•
Day 6: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang Continue cruising the Mekong before hitting Luang Prabang. Take a sightseeing bike tour before checking out the night markets. Hotel (B,L) Visit to the Pak Ou caves Visit Wat Xieng Thong temple
••
Day 7: Luang Prabang If you make an early start, take part in the ritual of offering alms (food) to the hundreds of Buddhist monks. If you feel like cooling off, take a trip to the Kuang Si Falls for a swim or visit the Royal Palace. Hotel (B) Forest elephant ride
•
Day 8: Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Today it’s on to Vang Vieng, known for its limestone karsts (rock formations), outdoor adventure activities & buzzing nightlife. Hotel (B) Scenic drive to Vang Vieng
•
Day 9: Vang Vieng Get hold of a map & explore with a free day. Maybe hire a bike – there’s an array of limestone caves, swimming
24-25 Indochina Adventure_USD.indd 3
holes, tunnels & bunkers to discover. Wind down with your friends & catch sunset at a riverside bar or an island watering-hole. Hotel (B) Day 10: Vang Vieng to Vientiane Arriving in Vientiane, we’ll take a locally guided tour of the nation’s French influenced capital. Later, we’ll visit That Luang & view Laos’ ‘Arc de Triomphe’. Hotel (B,D) Visit Luang Stupa & Patuxi Visit to COPE exhibition center Dinner at Makphet Restaurant
•• •
Day 11: Vientiane to Phnom Penh In Phnom Penh we’ll see reminders of the country’s dark history, then later wrap up the day at one of the many riverside restaurants or cafes. Hotel (B) Visit the ‘Killing Fields’ & Genocide Museum
•
Day 12: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Catch a flight to Siem Reap before cruising Tonle Sap Lake on our private boat. Tonight, maybe visit the Psar Chas (old market) for handicrafts & exotic fresh produce. Hotel (B) Tonle Sap Lake cruise
•
Day 13: Siem Reap Wake to watch the sun rise over Angkor Wat & hear the legends of the sacred sites of the Khmer Empire before we visit Angkor Thom by tuk-tuk! Hotel (B) Visit Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom & Ta Prohm
•
Day 14: Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City It’s free time before we fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Later, hit the thriving Ben Thanh markets & pick up anything from tasty food to Vietnam’s iconic conical hats. Hotel (B) Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta It’s a 2 day journey into the Mekong Delta. We’ll try out sanpans (local boats), take in local industries & see floating markets. Guest house Special Stay (B,L,D) Mekong Delta cruise See local industry demonstrations Visit a local tea garden
•• •
Day 16: Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City We head back to Ho Chi Minh City via the legendary tunnels in Cu Chi – you can even go down into the tunnels & experience them first-hand! Hotel (B)
How much & when
•
Visit to the Cu Chi tunnels
Day 17: Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang Take a city tour then visit the War Remnants Museum before we fly to Nha Trang. Hotel (B) View the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office & the Presidential Palace Visit the War Remnants Museum
• •
Day 18: Nha Trang Today, do your own thing or opt to take off to the gorgeous offshore islands for some swim stops & snorkelling. Hotel (B) Day 19: Nha Trang to Hoi An Fly to Danang & travel down to Hoi An. Take a guided walking tour, see the countryside at sunset by bike, before opting for a cooking class. Hotel (B) Visit the town’s Old Quarter & Japanese covered bridge
•
Day 20: Hoi An Maybe visit the temples of My Son, ride a bike down to the beach or use the day to explore the town. Otherwise relax or walk along the waterfront to the local markets. Hotel (B) Day 21: Hoi An to Hue Enjoy stunning views while driving over the “Pass of the Ocean Clouds” to Hue. Visit the famous city sights before dinner at a family-run restaurant. Hotel (B,D) Cross the Hai Van Pass Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda & the Imperial Citadel Cyclo ride
•• •
Day 22: Hue to Hanoi Our morning begins with a flight to Hanoi & a visit to the temple of Literature. Hotel (B) Visit the Temple of Literature
•
Code: BICA 2011/12/13 Start Bangkok
Finish Hanoi
Total Cost US$ pp
Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Jan
24 28 4 11 18 22
3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565
1 ● Jan 25 8 ● Feb 1 15 Feb 8 22 Feb 15 25 Feb 18 29 Feb 22 5 Feb 29 12 Mar 7 19 Mar 14 26 Mar 21 4 Mar 28 18 Apr 11 25 Apr 18 1 Apr 25 15 ● May 9 22 May 16 29 May 23 13 Jun 6 20 Jun 13 27 Jun 20 10 Jul 4 17 Jul 11 24 Jul 18 8 Aug 1 15 Aug 8
3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565
2011 Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
30 4 11 18 25 29
Finish Hanoi
Total Cost US$ pp
Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan
15 29 5 12 26 3 21 28 5 12 19 22 26 2 9 16 19 23
3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565
6 Jan 30 13 Feb 6 20 ● Feb 13 23 ● Feb 16 27 ● Feb 20 3 Feb 27 10 Mar 6 17 Mar 13 24 Mar 20 3 Mar 27 17 Apr 10 24 Apr 17 31 Apr 24
3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565 3565
2012
2012 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul
Start Bangkok
Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
22 5 12 19 2 9 28 4 11 18 25 28 2 9 16 23 26 30
2013 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar
The above prices include airfares & are accurate as of 10th October, 2011. For up-to-date pricing please go to contiki.com/indochina-adventure. Included flights: Prices above include the land tour & internal/international flights as specified on the map only & do not include international airfares to or from the tour start & end cities. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.34 for important info. Prices above are based on twin-share (multi-share on train). If you’re traveling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. A single room supplement is available for US$809 (only applicable in hotels). A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Tour starts at 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. ● These tours will be in Vietnam for Tet or Thailand for Songkran festival (New Year). For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information see p.34.
24 nights accommodation: 20 nights in 3 star hotels 2 nights in a guest house 1 overnight train 1 overnight cruise (more on p.12) 34 meals: 24 breakfasts (B) 5 lunches (L) 5 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes, payments & service charges 6 internal flights Transportation & included sightseeing
$
SAV E Pay 12 months in advance you save US$309. Or pay 6 months in advance you save US$155. See p.15 for details.
5 World Heritage sites visited
Cham Island cruise, Nah Trang
Day 23: Hanoi to Halong Bay See amazing views from the junk as we pass coves, cliffs & beaches. We stop for a swim before docking for sunset. Junk boat Special Stay (B,L,D) Visit the Sung Sot Caves Boat cruise of a grotto island
••
Day 24: Halong Bay to Hanoi Wake on the junk before we return to Hanoi & explore the city before our farewell dinner. Hotel (B,L) Day 25: Depart Hanoi Your tour ends after breakfast, so it’s time to say farewell to your group. (B)
Phuoc Kien Pagoda, Hoi An
28/10/2011 12:02
oceans
Supporting our
Contiki has proudly partnered with leading environmentalist, adventurer & explorer, Céline Cousteau (granddaughter of legendary oceanographer, Jacques Cousteau) to raise awareness of our ocean conservation projects.
Our conservation projects
MEET CÉLINE COUSTEAU > We’ve joined forces with Céline to help educate our Contiki community & team about environmental issues & marine protection. We speak with Céline in an exclusive interview on ocean conservation & what we can all do to make a difference. Contiki: You were just 9 years old when you took your first expedition with your grandfather, Jacques Cousteau, in the Amazon on his legendary boat ‘The Calypso’. You have recently celebrated his 100th birthday anniversary, what do you think you’ve learned most from him?
part of many discussions about its health, so am very aware of the importance of protecting it. We desperately need more people out there to help communicate & educate around this. Paramount to all of this, people depend on a balance in the natural world & we are all those people.
Céline: Of course there’s so much I have learned, but the heart of it all was an understanding from early on that my existence was only a small part of a greater whole. That learning came from being part of a family of travelers, filmmakers, explorers & photographers who would each bring back their stories from the field. My grandfather showed me it is more what you do with your learning’s that makes a difference. Each of us has the capacity to do more & we owe it to ourselves & others to reach for our full potential when given the opportunity.
Contiki: What do you think is the biggest issue threatening our oceans today?
Contiki: You spend most of your life around oceans, what is it that makes you so passionate about them? Céline: They’re such a wondrous universe & are right under our noses. I’ve had the tremendous opportunity to explore the underwater world & be a
Céline: There are many issues & a lot of them are intertwined, however; one example of a very tangible threat is overfishing. We are taking out a lot of species from the ocean in unsustainable quantities & with harmful fishing practices. Consequences are reduced resources, which in turn impacts the natural food chain of the ocean that naturally exists in a healthy balance, so other species are impacted along this chain. However, it’s not all doom & gloom, we don’t have to stop eating everything! We just need to remember consumer choices do make a difference. Find out more at montereybayaquarium.org (they even have a handy iPhone app) or visit blueocean.org/seafood.
Watch Céline’s video message to Contiki travelers at contiki.com/celinecousteau
26-27 Celine_Green_USD.indd 2
Contiki: People often think, ‘I’m just one person, what can I really do? What advice would you give to them? Céline: It shouldn’t be overwhelming. Ghandi once said: “be the change you want to see in the world” - why look any further. By incorporating small changes in all aspects of our lives & empowering others around us to do the same, that is action. These small changes in parallel with our efforts to influence leaders have the power to implement environmental protection laws & make a difference. Contiki: What ‘green tips’ would you recommend to our readers for while they are traveling? Céline: There are so many small things you can do to make a difference. I would recommend filling & packing your own travel sized toiletries so you don’t need to open a new one each time you change hotels. Take your own water bottle (metal is better than plastic) - every bottle you don’t buy is one less piece of plastic used. You can also calculate your carbon footprint based on your travel miles when you get back & offset this online.
At Contiki we love oceans, & are committed to protecting them for future generations to enjoy. We actively support two ocean conservation projects, The Mesoamerican Reef Leadership Program (MAR) & Oceana, who are both involved in the critical task of marine protection. Mesoamerican Reef Leadership Program (MAR) is a fresh new initiative that supports young local environmentalists working ‘hands on’ to protect the world’s second largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Reef system. Oceana campaigns to protect & restore the world’s oceans. Their project work involves at-sea expeditions gathering research which they use to inform policy makers to create important laws to protect our ocean systems. To find out more visit contiki.com/contikicares
See the full interview online at contiki.com/contikicares
Follow Céline on twitter @celinecousteau and at celinecousteau.com
28/10/2011 12:04
26 | 27
Contiki cares... We travel to experience the wonders that our world has to offer, be they natural or cultural, & we’re committed to ensuring they remain for the generations to come. Through our various causes we put conservation at the core of how we plan & run our tours. There are also a bunch of ways that you can help as well. Learn more at: contiki.com/contikicares/you
Our Foundation We’re founding partners of the non-profit Conservation Foundation.
Our Foundation has spent over US$2 million to help underprivileged communities & support sustainable tourism around the world. It’s part of its commitment to preserving our planet for generations to come (so far, the Foundation has helped protect 7.4 million acres of forest in Brazil, supported the World Wildlife Fund’s work with indigenous sustainable tourism in Australia, plus much more). What’s more, we’re committed to continuing with this support for sustainable tourism for years to come. We’re the primary sponsors of The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards – encouraging tourism operators to develop & share sustainable tourism practices around the world.
Recycling The Travel Corporation & Contiki are committed to use 100% recycled paper for the body stock of all our brochures. The environmental benefits are important in the following ways:
water in a cleaner state than initially received. The use of 100% recovered fiber means that the mill uses approx 1/5th of the energy that would be required to produce corresponding grades from primary fibers.
Recycled paper makes for less waste being deposited into landfills.
The body stock paper in our brochures meets the following Forest/Environmental/Process Certifications: PEFC, Blue Angel, ISO 9001 & 14001.
The paper mill uses a chlorine free fiber bleaching process (PCF) that avoids potential dioxins from being released into adjoining waterways.
We are proud to commit to using what is one of the most environmentally friendly coated recycled papers on Planet Earth.
The paper mill uses a complex filtration process that returns the river
* Calculation based on that provided by The Environmental Defense Fund.
By using paper made from recycled fiber we save approximately 90,000 trees per year.*
Giving back... Contiki’s all about bringing you closer to local cultures & environments & giving back to the communities we visit. We’re proud to support community projects & NGO’s who are as dedicated to conserving Asia’s natural & cultural heritage as we are. We encourage our travelers to give a little bit back to the special places & people you’ll encounter for now & future generations.
26-27 Celine_Green_USD.indd 3
Some of the things you’ll do in Asia with Contiki:
artificial limbs or support devices.
• Dine in restaurants that have been created to help get youth off the streets, into a job & equipping them with both work & life skills.
• We have the opportunity to visit an orphanage in Cambodia run by an NGO mission & the local community.
• In Laos, we visit the COPE Centre (Co-operative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise), an organization supporting victims of unexploded objects such as cluster bombs & landmines. They offer their support & rehabilitation to those who need
• We also employ Local Guides who will not only open your eyes to their cultures & ways of life, they’re also earning a much needed income too. Want to do more? There are more ways you can help, so ask your Tour Manager for how.
28/10/2011 12:04
Thai Islands East & West tours
2
Thai Island tours to choose from
With white sand beaches, turquoise water & endless good times, Thailand’s islands are incredible. No matter what time of year you choose to travel, let us show you why we love them. With our two great-value Thai Island Hopper trips you can experience the best of the Thai islands at their ultimate time of year. Try our Thai Island Hopper East between April & September, for kicking back on island time in Koh Samui, Koh Tao & Koh Pha Ngan. And between October & March it’s all about the Island Hopper West, with Phuket, Krabi & the legendary Koh Phi Phi.
$
REMEMBER If you book early you save money!
We’re always adding more departure dates for tours, so keep an eye on contiki.com for more.
28-29 Thai intro_Thai Islands West_USD.indd 2
• WEST INCLUDES: KOH PHI PHI PHUKET KRABI
• EAST INCLUDES: KOH TAO KOH PHA NGAN KOH SAMUI
28/10/2011 11:56
28 | 29
contiki.com/thai-hopper-west
Thai Island Hopper West
Thai Island Hopper West 9 Days What’s Included:
9 Days 1 Country
8 nights in 3 star resort accommodation (more on p.12) 10 meals: 8 breakfasts (B) 2 dinners (D)
Thailand
US$869pp
An experienced & professional Tour Manager
US$97 per day
THAILAND
2 KRABI
Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes, payments & service charges Tipping for local staff included
3 PHUKET
ANDAMAN N SE SEA A
3 Local Ferries
3 KOH PHI PHI
Places visited 1 or more nightstops
Bayview Villas, Koh Phi Phi
Itinerary & sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Phuket Check-in to your hotel, then head out to explore Phuket, with it’s exotic sights & great food. Spend the afternoon getting settled in before meeting your Tour Manager & fellow travelers. Tonight, grab dinner & explore Patong’s pulsing nightlife. Resort Days 2-3: Phuket There’s something for everyone on Phuket - chill on the beach, hit the shops, sip cocktails while watching the sun go down. If you feel like taking it up a level, maybe try some of the watersports on offer or opt for a day tour out to the popular “James Bond Island”. Resort (B)(B)
explore or relax. Take a day cruise around the islands & beaches of Phi Phi – it’s a perfect chance to see this beautiful area up close. Snorkel & swim in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea or lie on the beach & unwind. Tonight, watch the islands fire twirlers, or kick back on the sand with a drink & relax. Resort (B)(B) Day 7: Koh Phi Phi to Krabi (Ao Nang) Today we sail to one of the most popular beaches on Krabi – Ao Nang. Set amongst the limestone karsts, Krabi has un-spoilt islands & beaches. Resort (B,D)
Day 8: Krabi (Ao Nang) Laze about on the beach, take a boat trip to Rai Leh or if you are feeling adventurous, try climbing the 1,237 steps that lead to the top of a mountain at the Tiger Cave Temple. Tonight grab a meal at a cool beachside restaurant or party by night in the popular Bar Street. Resort (B) Day 9: Krabi (Ao Nang) to Phuket After a last morning in Ao Nang, we head back to Phuket where the tour ends, so make sure you swap email addresses before you go. It is your choice to be transferred to the airport or our starting hotel in Phuket. (B)
Day 4: Phuket to Koh Phi-Phi Board a ferry & travel to picturesque Phi Phi Island, setting for the movie “The Beach”. You’ll be shown around the island to get your bearings, then try an unbeatable panoramic sunset from a hill top. Later take in the atmosphere of Phi Phi by night. Resort (B,D) Days 5-6: Koh Phi Phi An incredible island to either
Explore more: optional activities Phuket Visit ‘Fantasea’ theme park • Day trip to “James Bond” Island Phi Phi An exclusive full day boat cruise to Bamboo Island with lunch, snorkelling & beach stops Ao Nang Day time boat trip to Rai Leh Beach • Forest Elephant ride Visit contiki.com/thai-hopper-west-explore-more for all the optional activities you can do
28-29 Thai intro_Thai Islands West_USD.indd 3
$
Code: CTTIPH 2011/12/13 Start Phuket
Finish Phuket
Total Cost US$ pp
16 19 26 30 3 10 14 17 24
Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan
24 27 4 8 11 18 22 25 1
869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869
2012 Jan 2 Jan 7 Jan 11 Jan 14 Jan 21 Jan 28 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 11 Feb 18 Feb 22 Feb 25 Mar 3 Mar 10 Mar 17 Mar 24 Mar 31 Oct 3 Oct 6 Oct 10 Oct 13 Oct 17 Oct 20 Oct 24 Oct 27 Oct 31 Nov 3 Nov 7 Nov 10 Nov 14
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov
10 15 19 22 29 5 12 16 19 26 1 4 11 18 25 1 8 11 14 18 21 25 28 1 4 8 11 15 18 22
869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869
2011 Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
Transportation & included sightseeing
Start Phuket
Finish Phuket
Total Cost US$ pp
17 21 24 28 1 5 8 12 15 19 22 25 28
Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan
25 29 2 6 9 13 16 20 23 27 30 2 5
869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869
2013 Jan 2 Jan 5 Jan 9 Jan 12 Jan 16 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 26 Jan 30 Feb 2 Feb 6 Feb 9 Feb 13 Feb 16 Feb 20 Feb 23 Feb 27 Mar 2 Mar 6 Mar 9 Mar 13 Mar 16 Mar 20 Mar 23 Mar 27 Mar 30
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr
10 13 17 20 24 27 31 3 7 10 14 17 21 24 28 3 7 10 14 17 21 24 28 31 4 7
869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869 869
SAV E Pay 12 months in advance you save US$85. Or pay 6 months in advance you save US$39. See p.15 for details.
2012 Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
Bamboo Island cruise, Koh Phi Phi
Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re traveling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. A single room supplement is available for US$565. A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Tour starts at 6:00pm & ends approx. 1:00pm. NB: Due to seasonal variances, return ferry from Ao Nang may be replaced with a land transfer. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.34.
28/10/2011 11:56
contiki.com/thai-hopper-east
Thai Island Hopper East 9 Days 1 Country Thailand
US$769pp US$86 per day
What’s Included:
2 KOH TAO
8 nights accommodation: 5 nights in 3 star hotels 3 nights in bungalows (more on p.12)
GULF OF THAILAND
10 meals: 8 breakfasts (B) 2 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager
3 KOH PHA NGAN
Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations
3 KOH SAMUI
Places visited 1 or more nightstops
Local taxes, payments & service charges Tipping for local staff included 3 Local Ferries Transportation & included sightseeing
GO
Only Contiki includes
• Special Stay in Koh Pha Ngan
$
SAV E Pay 12 months in advance you save US$75. Or pay 6 months in advance you save US$35. See p.15 for details.
Code: CTIIKS 2012 Start Koh Samui
Finish Koh Samui
Total Cost US$ pp
2012 Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun
31 6 14 23 30 6 12 22 29 5 9 21 27
Start Koh Samui
Finish Koh Samui
Total Cost US$ pp
Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct
769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769
2012 ● Apr ■ ◗ Apr ■ Apr ◗ May ● May ◗ May
May May Jun Jun Jun ◗ Jun ● Jul ◗ ● ◗
8 14 22 1 8 14 20 30 6 13 17 29 5
769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769 769
Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep
5 14 20 29 4 11 18 26 2 8 16 24
◗ ◗ ● ◗ ◗ ● ◗ ◗ ●
13 22 28 6 12 19 26 3 10 16 24 2
Itinerary & sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Koh Samui Check-in to your hotel then hit the streets for some exploring. With its amazing sights, great food & chilled atmosphere, Koh Samui is perfect for settling in to island time. Later, meet with your Tour Manager & fellow travelers. Tonight find a cool local spot & indulge in a delicious Thai meal before some free time. Hotel Days 2-3: Koh Samui With 2 free days here, relax & soak up the rays as you explore Koh Samui’s many gorgeous beaches. Maybe enjoy a Thai massage, try some watersports, or take a tour of the island to see some of the local sights as you unwind on one of
Thailand’s favorite island spots. Hotel (B)(B) Day 4: Koh Samui to Koh Tao This morning we cruise to Koh Tao – an island known for spectacular underwater scenery. A popular location for diving, it’s just as easy to grab a snorkel to experience the aquatic sites too or just chill. Hotel (B,D) Day 5: Koh Tao With a free day you could sit back with a book or take the opportunity to explore the area. Maybe grab a snorkel & acquaint yourself with tropical fish. Try out the optional cruise which takes you to a private island. Hotel (B) Day 6: Koh Tao to Koh Pha Ngan Today we’ll jump on a ferry & set sail to the party island of Koh Pha Ngan for a taste of the buzzing island
atmosphere. Famous for its legendary Full Moon Parties. We’ll stay in a relaxing setting, set just off Had Yao Beach. Bungalows (B) Bungalow Special Stay (B)(B,D) Day 7-8: Koh Pha Ngan You choose how to spend the next few days: lying on the beach surrounded by coconut trees or by night head out to one of the Moon Parties that Koh Pha Ngan is famous for. Bungalow Special Stay (B)(B,D) Day 9: Koh Pha Ngan to Koh Samui We say “la gon” to Koh Pha Ngan & catch a ferry to Koh Samui where it’s time to bid farewell your travel friends. You can either take a free transfer to the airport or back to our start hotel in Koh Samui. (B)
Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re traveling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. A single room supplement is available for US$439. A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Tour starts at 6:00pm & ends approx. 12:00pm. ●
Note: These tours will be in Koh Pha Ngan for Full Moon Parties. Although every effort has been made to ensure that tour dates above coincide with Full Moon Parties, dates of individual Full Moon Parties can occasionally change at short notice due to Buddhist holidays.
◗
Note: These tours will be in Koh Pha Ngan for Half Moon Parties. Although every effort has been made to ensure that tour dates above coincide with Half Moon Parties, dates of individual Half Moon Parties can occasionally change at short notice due to Buddhist holidays.
These tours will be in Thailand for Thai New Year & Water Festival. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.34.
Explore more: optional activities
■
30-31 Thai Islands East_China Intro_USD.indd 2
Koh Tao Exclusive to Contiki Day snorkelling cruise Koh Pha Ngan Hands-on Thai Cooking Class Koh Samui Island tour with waterfall swim Visit contiki.com/thai-hopper-east-explore-more for all the optional activities you can do
28/10/2011 11:55
30 | 31
China Includes Hong Kong
1
China tour
5000 years of history, forbidden cities, delicacies & tales make exploring China’s mix of ancient & modern a must. Feel the fast-paced vibes in Beijing, Shanghai & Hong Kong, combined with traditional must-sees, which make China so unique. From staring across the landscapes atop the Great Wall, getting up close to the fascinating Terracotta Army to the Hong Kong skyline & busy city streets - get ready to experience it all.
$
REMEMBER If you book early you save money!
We’re always adding more departure dates for tours, so keep an eye on contiki.com for more.
30-31 Thai Islands East_China Intro_USD.indd 3
• INCLUDES: BEIJING XI’AN SHANGHAI HONG KONG
28/10/2011 11:55
China Adventure 12 Days 1 Country China
US$2665pp US$223 per day
Great Wall of China
GO
3 BEIJING
1
BO HAI
YEL ELLOW SEA YELLOW
XI’AN 1
2
CHINA
SHANGHAI
Only Contiki includes
• Lunch with a local family in a Beijing hutong • Entry & guided visit of the Forbidden City & Beijing Summer Palace • Visit to the 2008 Olympic Village • Return cable car journey at the Great Wall of China • Experience a Chinese tea house • Visit historic Tiananmen Square • Entry & guided visit of the Terracotta Army Museum • Entry to the 88th floor of Jin Mao Tower • Guided bike ride through Yangshou countryside • Expert English-speaking Local Guide • All private coach transportation
Explore more: optional activities
Guilin
2 YANGSHUO
2 HONG KONG
Places visited 1 or more nightstops
32-33 China Adventure_USD.indd 2
SOUTH CHINA SEA SO
Beijing Authentic & delicious Peking Duck dinner Xi’an Spectacular Tang Dynasty show & dinner Shanghai Shanghai Acrobat Show Yangshuo Yangshuo cooking class • Yulong River bamboo raft • Impressions Liu Sanjie show Visit contiki.com/china-adventure-explore-more for all the optional activities you can do
28/10/2011 12:00
32 | 33
contiki.com/china-adventure
From the Great Wall to the high rises of Shanghai to Xi’an’s famous Terracotta Army – China is amazing. When you’re not walking in the footsteps of emperors, see it from the back of a rickshaw or cycle ancient city walls in this tour packed with unique experiences.
FUN FACT
Kalo-Lainee: It’s hard to limit it … I can go on & on about everything! Thank you Contiki for making my dream come true.
If you’re trying your luck in China, go for the number 8. The Chinese tried it - the Olympics in Beijing began on 8/8/08 at 8 seconds at 8 minutes past 8 pm.
China Adventure 12 Days What’s Included:
Itinerary & sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Beijing Home to the 2008 Olympics & the political, educational & cultural center of China…it’s bustling Beijing! Tonight meet your Tour Manager & fellow travelers then head out & explore the city. Hotel Day 2: Beijing Start your adventure with a visit to Tiananmen Square & a tour of the Forbidden City. Afterwards you’ll visit the cool 798 Art Precinct for a look at some modern Chinese art before heading over to the site of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Tonight, you have the chance to try a local specialty – crispy & delicious Peking Duck! Hotel (B) Visit Tiananmen Square Tour the Forbidden City Visit the 798 Art Precinct Visit the 2008 Olympic Village
•• ••
Day 3: Beijing We head to Beijing’s countryside to the complex of tombs built for the Ming Emperors, before heading to the spectacular Great Wall of China after lunch. Hotel (B,L) Visit the Ming Tombs complex Visit a cloisonné factory Visit the Great Wall (Mutianyu section)
• ••
Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an After free time in the morning, you’ll visit the narrow streets of Beijing’s hutongs where you will climb aboard a rickshaw for a ride through this traditional area. Try some tea at a Chinese teahouse before a visit to the Beijing Summer Palace. Tonight, it’s dinner at a local restaurant & our train journey to Xi’an. Overnight train (B,L,D) Visit a hutong Lunch with a local family
••
The Forbidden City, Beijing
32-33 China Adventure_USD.indd 3
••
Ride in a rickshaw Visit the Beijing Summer Palace
Day 5: Xi’an After breakfast, we depart the city of Xi’an to see how terracotta warriors were made, before a tour of the world famous ‘Terracotta Army’ museum. Tonight maybe opt for a tasty dumpling feast & cultural show before heading out for a taste of Xi’an’s nightlife. Hotel (B, L) Visit a Terracotta Warrior Factory Tour the Terracotta Army complex
• •
Day 6: Xi’an to Shanghai Get on two wheels with a bike ride on the ancient Xi’an City Walls. An orientation tour of the Muslim Quarter with time to shop & taste local specialties. This afternoon it’s a change of scene as we fly to Shanghai & soak up city views from the 88th floor of the Jin Mao Tower. Hotel (B) Bike Ride on the Xi’an City Wall Guided Tour of the Xi’an Muslim area Visit to 88th floor of Jin Mao Tower
• • •
Day 7: Shanghai Today’s yours, so maybe get a shopping fix - there’s tons on offer here. Try the City God Temple (Chenghuang Miao) for some bargains before stopping off at the Bund, Shanghai’s famous promenade. This evening you could opt for an amazing Chinese acrobatic show or simply find a spot to take in the party atmosphere of the Shanghai skyline. Hotel (B,D) Visit the City God Temple Complex Visit Shanghai’s Bund area
• •
How much & when
•
Visit a Shanghai Silk Factory
Day 8: Shanghai to Yangshuo We catch a flight to Guilin this morning then head to Yangshuo, located amongst the limestone karsts on the Li River. Hotel (B) Day 9: Yangshuo With a full free day, do your own thing, or opt to try a bamboo raft on the nearby Yulong River. You could even try a local cooking school to become a master at Chinese cuisine. Tonight maybe watch the Impressions Liu Sanjie Show – set on the local mountains & river with light displays, music & over 600 performers. Hotel (B)
Code: CTCHINA 2012 Start Beijing
Finish Hong Kong
Total Cost US$ pp
Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug
2665 2665 2665 2665 2665 2665 2665 2665 2665
2012 Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul
2 16 30 14 28 11 25 9 23
Start Beijing
Finish Hong Kong
Total Cost US$ pp
Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov
2665 2665 2665 2665 2665 2665 2665 2665
2012 13 27 11 25 8 22 6 20 3
Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov
6 20 3 17 1 15 29 12
17 31 14 28 12 26 9 23
The above prices include internal airfares & are accurate as of 10th October, 2011. For up-to-date pricing please go to contiki.com/china-adventure. Included flights: Prices above include the land tour & internal flights as specified on the map only & do not include international airfares to or from the tour start & end cities. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.34 for important info.
Day 10: Yangshuo to Hong Kong Today it’s a ride through the magical scenery of the Guilin Province, before a change of scene as we catch our flight to the bright lights of Hong Kong. (B)
Prices above are based on twin-share (multi-share on train). If you’re traveling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Day 11: Hong Kong Reach new heights as we head to Victoria Peak for panoramic views over this exciting city. Later it’s onto the fishing village of Aberdeen & a cruise around the harbor. Pick up gifts for friends & family at the Stanley Markets. Tonight toast your China experience & savour the taste of your last meal in China. Hotel (B,D)
Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.34.
Day 12: Depart Hong Kong Our tour ends after breakfast, so it’s time to swap email addresses as you say farewell your Tour Manager & new friends. (B)
A single room supplement is available for US$599.
11 nights accommodation: 10 nights in 3 star hotels 1 overnight train (more on p.12) 17 meals: 11 breakfasts (B) 3 lunches (L) 3 dinners (D) A dedicated crew with an experienced & professional Tour Manager & Englishspeaking local guides Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes, payments & service charges Tipping for local staff included 3 internal flights Transportation & included sightseeing
A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Tour starts at 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.
$
SAV E Pay 12 months in advance you save US$249. Or pay 6 months in advance you save US$125. See p.15 for details.
5 World Heritage sites visited
798 Art Precinct, Beijing
Hong Kong
Street markets, Hong Kong
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Got a question? Answers to frequently asked questions & things you need to know: What’s included? • Coach, train, boat, ferry transportation, internal flights & ‘on tour’ airport transfers listed in the ‘What’s included’ section on the tour pages. • Accommodations, breakfasts, lunches & dinners listed in the ‘What’s included’ section on tour pages. • Sightseeing listed in the ‘Included highlights’ section in each tour itinerary. Unless specified, entrance fees to these locations are included. • Experienced Contiki Tour Manager & Local Guides.
What’s not included? • • • •
Personal expense money. Visas, passport fees, personal insurance & medical fees. Excess baggage fees & tips for porters. Sightseeing, visits & entrance fees other than those specified on tour pages. • Explore more optional excursions & activities such as cooking classes etc. • Lunches (unless specified under “What’s included”) & some dinners. • Anything not specified in the What’s included section.
Included flights Flights as specified on individual tour itineraries are included as part of the price and are accurate as of 10th October, 2011. For up-to-date pricing please go to contiki.com. As detailed within our Booking Conditions (Page 35) under ‘General’ we rely on international conventions regards air travel and other transportation as specified. Through enrolment and payment for your tour you acknowledge and accept such. Individual electronic tickets may not be issued to you prior to travel due to the group nature of the air/flight booking. In such circumstances you acknowledge that by receipt of any applicable boarding pass and/or by boarding the aircraft you have accepted the airlines terms & conditions of travel and the application of all relevant International Conventions and applicable national and international law governing air transportation.
Group size Contiki’s group size in Asia is a maximum of 30, a group size small enough to have an intimate Asian experience but big enough to make the group dynamic rock.
Will I get more information? Upon receipt of final payment, your documentation will be released 21 days prior to your departure. Make sure you visit contiki.com/tgasia or /tgchina for our travelers guide. It’s packed full of essential info for your vacation. You’ll also receive a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary including full details & costs of all explore more optional excursions available on your tour. Your free Contiki document wallet & luggage tag* will be sent to you with your travel documents. The wallet is a safe place for your tickets & passports. * Contiki reserves the right to substitute an alternative travel accessory for the Contiki document wallet.
Brochure authenticity We have put a great deal of effort into producing this brochure. The information given & literature produced by Contiki has been compiled with care & is published in good faith. Sometimes, because of circumstances outside our control, we have to alter some activities due to seasonal closing or repairs to buildings, etc, especially early or late in the season. If this happens, alternative activities will be arranged.
How much money do I need You will need to ensure you allow enough money to cover optional lunches & dinners, souvenirs, shopping, drinks, explore more optional activities, entrance fees to some attractions & evening entertainment. When traveling with Contiki in Asia, you’ll find that you’ll often be using local currencies, particularly in remote areas. The local currencies encountered on tour are the Riel (Cambodia), Kip (Laos), Baht (Thailand), Yuan (China) or Dong (Vietnam).The countries we visit rely largely on cash as opposed to credit cards or travelers checks. In the larger cities, you’ll find that established stores will accept credit cards readily, while local market stalls will operate on a cash only basis – accepting only local currency. Local currency is readily available through cash machines in each country. Obtaining a small amount of local
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currency before you travel is also a good idea. ATMs that dispense local currency are widely available. However, you can’t depend solely on a credit/debit card for cash as they are not accepted in all areas. We advise you also carry $US cash in small denominations that you can use as an alternate form of payment. Please note that travelers checks are generally only accepted in big cities at money exchanges or banks to change to local currency.
Explore More Optional Activities Optionals are arranged & paid for on tour. By leaving the final decisions until then you can choose at the same time as your new friends. You’ll get great value as we get you great rates. Some activities are seasonal & weather dependent. Our optional activities offered on Contiki Asia tours are operated by 3rd party operators. While every attempt is made to ensure the safety of all activities, the nature of the region means that public liability protection that is offered in many countries, may not be applicable in many cases. A waiver will need to be signed by all tour participants to ensure that these conditions are understood & accepted. Note: Travel insurance is compulsory for all Contiki Asia tours.
Past traveler 5% discount Eligibility for this discount is based on clients having booked & traveled with Contiki (or one of our Travel Corporation sister brands, visit www.thetravelcorporation.com for details) within 5 years of their last tour. Clients must have completed a tour before they can redeem the discount on a subsequent tour booking. Only one discount can be redeemed per past traveler annually. A deposit must be received before the discount can be applied to the booking. It is not available on pre- & post-tour accommodation rates & other selected products. The discount applies to brochured prices only & cannot be combined with any nonbrochured special market promotions.
Do I need vaccinations At the time this brochure went to press (October, 2011), the following immunizations are recommended for travelers in Southeast Asia by the CDC (US Centre for Diseases Control & Prevention): • Diphtheria & tetanus • Hepatitis A • Hepatitis B • Typhoid • Rabies • Japanese B Encephalitis Malaria & dengue fever are also an issue within this region. You should consult a travel doctor who specializes in travel medicines or your local doctor to advise on what vaccinations and/or preventative medicines would be required. Don’t forget to bring with you any medication that you may require en route such as antihistamines, antibiotics, etc.
Do I need visas? Please read carefully. Depending on your nationality, you may require visas to enter certain countries included in your tour. You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your tour. Contiki is not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a tour. Visa & other entry & exit conditions (such as currency, arrival/departure taxes, customs & quarantine regulations) change regularly. In Asia, some visas but not all, can be purchased at the border. At www.contiki.com/travelresources we have put together some information for all of the countries that we visit on our Asia tours. Consult your travel agent or visit or visit www.embassyworld.com and Zierer Visa Services www.zvs.com/home.aspx?login=73025 to determine which visas you require & how to obtain them. Your passport must have at least six months’ validity remaining when you arrive. Local immigration authorities may deny entry & deport people who do not meet this requirement, even if they intend on staying only for a short period. Important to consider: 1. Visas can take up to six weeks & a fee is normally charged. 2. Failure to obtain all necessary visas could cause you to miss part of your tour & will result in you incurring considerable expense & inconvenience. 3. It is better to apply for all visas through your travel agent before you leave home. Be aware that some visas can be purchased & arranged on arrival. 4. It is very important that the entry & exit dates are correct on the visa. Your travel agent will contact Contiki for full details.
How much luggage can I bring? There are some things to consider when packing for a Contiki Asia tour: • Due to the large number of flights on Contiki Asia tours, your luggage needs to meet the weight & restrictions imposed by airlines. These limits are imposed by the airlines, not by Contiki. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred by overweight luggage. • You are responsible for carrying your own luggage. At times this will be in hotels without elevators (as is common to the region), or onto various forms of transport, such as trains. • At hotels without elevators, there maybe porters to assist with bags, but this is not guaranteed. On our tours, luggage is restricted to a maximum suitcase size of 29” x 20” x 10” (73cm x 50cm x 25cm) & maximum weight of 44lbs (20 kg) plus one small hand/day bag that can go on the coach with you. Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept larger & heavier suitcases on tour. Use of a backpack/rucksack is suggested, but not required. Wheeled suitcases can be used on Contiki tours in Asia. The Contiki Tour Manager may suggest you store your main luggage & utilize a smaller bag for overnight rail journeys, overnight junk boat or overnight stays at guesthouses. A small daypack/backpack of approx 6.9 gallons (26L) capacity is suggested. Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept larger suitcases on tour. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk & baggage insurance is strongly recommended.
Am I expected to tip on tour Every country in the world has different tipping practices. Within the service industry in Asia, tipping is common practice. Tipping is totally optional & only given if you feel the service has exceeded your expectations. Your Tour Manager will assist you with any questions about this. All tipping for local guides & drivers is included as part of the
tour price. Be aware that services & standards in Asia may not be equivalent to those you find at home. If you think your Contiki team have done an exceptional job than you may wish to tip them. This is entirely discretionary – it’s completely up to you.
Booking Security Contiki has been running tours for young people since 1962 & is a member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). USTOA includes all the major tour operators who are financially bonded for your security & who maintain the highest standards. Contiki is also a member of the National Tour Association (NTA) & the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). With the guarantees of these organizations, you know your vacation & money are secure with Contiki.
Travel Insurance Cancellation, unexpected medical expenses, injuries, theft, lost luggage or money can significantly disrupt your vacation. It is compulsory that you take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel. Contiki has the right to refuse passengers without the required insurance cover to join our tours. Your insurance must cover personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and evacuation expenses. We strongly recommend your insurance also covers cancellation, personal liability and loss of personal property. If you intend to participate in adventures sports and activities when traveling then please ensure your policy covers such. Some policies exclude certain adventure activities. Contiki offers a comprehensive package that can be tailor made to your vacation. A brief description of this coverage is outlined below. Please ask your Travel Agent to ask Contiki when making your booking.
Photography credits Photos Courtesy of Elise Garner p.15. Temple, p.22 & 25 Chiang Rai hill tribe. Photos courtesy of © Carrie Vonderhaar, Ocean Futures Society, Celine Cousteau snorkelling p.26. Photos courtesy of © Çapkin van Alphen-CauseCentric Productions p.26 Celine Cousteau, Celine Cousteau snorkelling.
Contiki Vacations Travel Protection Plan PROVIDING YOU WITH “ANY REASON” CANCELLATION FLEXIBILITY AND PEACE OF MIND WHILE YOU TRAVEL: Contiki Vacations Travel Protection Plan – designed exclusively with the following: Priced at: Trips up to $2,000: $129 per person. Trips $2,001 or greater: $169 per person. Trips of 35 days or longer are subject to different pricing. Consult your Contiki Specialist for more details 1-800-CONTIKI. Note: prices are subject to change without notice.. SECTION I: TRAVEL ARRANGEMENT PROTECTION - Provided by Contiki Vacations* Trip Cancellation: Up to Total Trip Cost. Reimburses the non-refundable Contiki Vacations cancellation penalties imposed if you must cancel your trip for a covered reason such as illness, injury or death to you, a traveling companion or an immediate family member. Other reasons for cancellation include Common Carrier-caused delays due to inclement weather, jury duty, subpoena, or a documented traffic accident en route to departure, and other reasons as cited in the plan description. The Contiki Vacations “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver**. With the Contiki Vacations “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver, Contiki Vacations will provide you with 100% of the cancellation charges in the form of a future travel credit certificate, should you cancel your tour more than 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure for any reason that is not eligible for cash reimbursement under the Trip Cancellation section of the Travel Protection Plan. Cancellation charges are reimbursed in the form of Contiki Vacations Travel Certificates allowing you a two year credit to travel with us at a later date! Please note that to be eligible for the “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver, you must enroll and pay for the plan within two days of your initial trip deposit. The certificate is valid for two years, is non-transferable and nonrefundable and may not be redeemed for cash. Future travel certificates do not include airfare cancellation charges for air arrangements unless those arrangements were provided by Contiki Vacations. Trip Interruption: Up to Total Trip Cost Trip Delay: Up to $1,000 ($150/day) SECTION II: TRAVEL INSURANCE BENEFITS Underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company*** Baggage Protection: Up to $2,500 Bag Delay: Up to $500 Medical & Dental Expenses: Up to $50,000 Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation: Up to $50,000
SECTION III: EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE SERVICES - Provided by On Call International While the above is not a complete description – a full plan description detailing the terms, conditions and exclusions will be sent to you – we have highlighted just a few of the plan benefits. If you have any Travel Protection Plan questions, or would like to request a copy of the plan description, please call our plan administrator, BerkelyCare, at 1-866-580-4871. You may also view the plan at http://www.berkely.net/ travcorp/ctp/faq.htm The Contiki Vacations Travel Protection Plan is provided in addition to other applicable indemnity or insurance programs, where permitted by law and shall apply only after benefits have been paid. * For NY residents, Section I Travel Arrangement Protection (Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption & Trip Delay) is underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio. ** For NY residents only, the “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver may be purchased separately from the Contiki Vacations Travel Protection Plan. Contact 1-877-722-2195 for details. *** Section II Travel Insurance Benefits, Policy Number MZ0911064H0000A-U are underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio: NAIC #10952 (all states except as otherwise noted) Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5000. In CA, CT, HI, NE, NH, PA, TN and TX Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5100 and TAHC5200. In IL, IN, KS, LA, OR, OH, VT, WA and WY Policy Forms TAHC5100IPS and TAHC5200IPS.
This plan was designed and is administered by BerkelyCareSM. IN CALIFORNIA: BerkelyCareSM is a service mark of Aon Direct Insurance Administrators, CA Insurance License # 0795465. IN ALL OTHER STATES: BerkelyCareSM is a division of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. in all states other than CA, except: AIS Affinity Insurance Agency, Inc. in MN and OK and AIS Affinity Insurance Agency in NY. 5864684A
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Booking conditions Once Contiki accepts your booking by confirmation thereof a contract is made between Contiki & you upon the terms & conditions set out below. OUR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. YOUR VACATION RESERVATION On receipt of your deposit, subject to availability and at our discretion, Contiki will reserve your place on your selected vacation. A contract is only made between you and us upon your booking being confirmed and accepted by us and our communication thereof to either you or your travel agent. 2. PRICE GUARANTEE a) Tour Prices: Are based on costs, tariffs, taxes, charges, levies and exchange rates as of 10th October, 2011. Should these change, the price of your vacation may increase. If the total price increases by more than 10%, you may cancel, without penalty, within 3 DAYS after we notify you of the increase. Except as explained below, we will not increase the price of your land vacation after we receive your full deposit for your land vacation. In exchange for this guarantee, no refund will be made if the cost factors described above are reduced. We reserve the right to recover from you increases in cruise line imposed fuel surcharges and in taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or its agencies. b) Airline Fuel Surcharges & Air-Related Taxes, Fees & Restrictions: As noted above, all quoted land and air prices include airline fuel surcharges and Air-Related Taxes and Fees, applicable as of 10th October, 2011. However, if the customer is notified of the potential for a price increase prior to the time that the full amount agreed upon has been paid and customer’s written consent prior to accepting any payment has been obtained, we reserve the right to recover from you increases in those surcharges. Any additional fees charged by the airlines, such as baggage handling, seat selections, and/or any other services are the sole responsibility of the passenger(s). Additional airrelated restrictions apply. See www.contiki.com/restrictions for details. 3. IF WE CANCEL OR CHANGE YOUR VACATION 3.1 Contiki reserves the right to change or cancel any tour departure in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. 3.2 If a cancellation is made any time prior to the tour departure*, Contiki’s only liability will be to refund the passenger the amount it has received for the booking. Contiki will try and re-book the same or a similar tour and, where flights have been confirmed by Contiki, will attempt to confirm air seats for the new date selected, subject to availability. Contiki is not liable for any changes, amendment or cancellation penalties incurred on any other travel arrangements purchased separately. 3.3 If an alternative tour is not available or acceptable you will be entitled to either a full refund of monies paid by you to us or transfer to another Contiki vacation without payment of any transfer fee. *Please Note: The departure date constitutes the date indicated on Contiki’s confirmation. If you do not join the tour on the day of departure then cancellation fees will be 100%. 3.4 If the change or cancellation is due to force majeure (i.e. circumstances like political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, closure of airports or ports, industrial disputes, terrorist activity, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk, Acts of God, adverse weather conditions or other similar events beyond Contiki’s control) we will give a full refund of any monies paid to us less reasonable expenses incurred by us in respect of your booking. 3.5 Contiki is not responsible for the costs of any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations or rescheduling of any tour departure. 4. VACATION DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 4.1 The information in our brochure is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to print (October, 2011) but we cannot guarantee that any item or amenity mentioned will be available, especially where we have no direct control over it. 4.2 With respect to their touring program Contiki will do their best, at their discretion, to select accommodation, sightseeing tours and transportation to give you good value for your money. 4.3 Contiki constantly strives to improve tour itineraries and features. If such improvements can be made, or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and to substitute hotels. Contiki is not responsible for any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations. 4.4 Any special meal requirements will be made on a request basis only. Contiki cannot guarantee special meal requests nor will assume any responsibility or liability if clients special meal requests are not fulfilled. 5. LIABILITY 5.1 Contiki is responsible for properly arranging and conducting your vacation. 5.2 As a Tour Operator, Contiki makes arrangements with carriers, hoteliers and other independent suppliers to provide you with some or all of the travel services you purchase. These parties are independent suppliers over whom Contiki has no direct control. Unless caused by its own negligence, Contiki is not responsible for and accepts no liability in respect of any claims, losses, damages, costs or expenses arising out of: a) personal injury, sickness, disease, accident or death, however caused, including without limitation, where same results from your conduct on vacation. b) loss or damage to or delay of baggage or other property unless resulting from Contiki’s negligence in which case Contiki’s liability shall be limited to the actual loss but in no event would exceed the total vacation cost; c) delays and loss as a result of government action, weather, mechanical breakdown, equipment failure, labor disputes, sickness, acts of war, insurrection, terrorism, Acts of God or any other causes beyond Contiki’s direct control. Contiki cannot be responsible for interruption of air carrier service due to airline default. d) acts or omissions, whether negligent or otherwise, of suppliers of services or their personnel (including, without limitation, transportation and accommodation services) or of any other person or body unless such a person or body is employed by us, or is an agent of ours, and is acting within the scope of his or her authority. In no event is Contiki liable for the acts or omissions of independent third party contractors or of its own employees or agents acting outside the scope of their duties. e) loss of enjoyment, upset, disappointment, distress or frustration, whether physical or mental, resulting from any of the following: (i) any matter or topic described in sub-paragraphs (a) to (d) inclusive above. (ii) your failure to obtain the necessary documentation to travel. (iii) your failure to arrive on time for initial departure or for connections within the tour or to stay within or join your tour at any time after initial departure. (iv) your leaving the tour prior to its completion. (v) the need for Contiki to change itineraries or substitute accommodation or services, provided that Contiki makes every effort to supply the most comparable services and accommodations available. (vi) cancellation of the vacation by Contiki provided that a full refund of all monies paid is made to you. (vii) Many of our activities are action and adventure orientated. Sports and similar activities inherently involve risks of injury greater than those that would be encountered if you were not participating in such, and therefore, by voluntarily taking part in any sports or other such activities, you thereby acknowledge and assume any of the risks inherent therein. In the absence of negligence on our part, or on the part of our agents and representatives, neither we nor they accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, any injury, illness, damage, loss, accident, expense, delay or any other
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irregularity resulting from your participation in any of the activities made available to you. (viii) We take every reasonable precaution possible to assure your comfort, safety, and enjoyment while you are taking part in a Contiki vacation. Contiki vacations are generally for the young, and not for the frail or those not generally enjoying good health. A change of climate, food, time and varied cultural habits often affects travelers differently. We therefore recommend that you advise your doctor that you are taking one of our vacations and ask if he or she recommends anything for your trip, even for something as seemingly benign as an upset stomach. Since the brands of any medication to which you are accustomed may be unavailable in places to which you are traveling, we recommend you bring your own supply of any medication you will require and carry such medication in your hand luggage. Prescription drugs should be carried in the original labeled bottles. Should you fall ill during your Contiki vacation, we will make every reasonable effort to make prompt, sanitary, safe and proper medical care available to you. However, if at anytime or anywhere treatments of any sort are suggested to you that do not meet your needs or expectations, you should not hesitate to contact your own doctor. Also, please note that the same sorts of activities that can expose you to certain types of diseases at home can just as easily expose you to those same diseases abroad. This information is provided only for your convenience and we are not responsible or liable for any damages resulting from your failure to confirm or ascertain health information or medical precaution, if any, for the places which you will be visiting. (ix) Contiki is responsible for taking care to arrange and conduct your vacation properly. With you in mind, we have accepted applications from and interviewed numerous potential employees, and then we select only those people whom we believe in our best judgement would be responsible and congenial, Tour Managers, Representatives and Drivers. Although we firmly believe, based on personal interviews and certain disclosures made to us by our employees, that all of our employees enjoy excellent health, we, like other tour operators, are legally unable to confirm this in most, if not all, instances. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. BOOKING YOUR VACATION 1.1 In order to reserve your vacation, a deposit of US$200, per person per tour, or the full amount payable if booking is made within 45 days of departure, must be submitted to Contiki by you in respect of that vacation. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. The deposit is accepted as a first installment of the vacation price by Contiki only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by Contiki or your travel agent. 1.2 Your land reservation will be confirmed on receipt of a non- transferable, non-refundable deposit of US$200 per person for the first tour booked and then a deposit of US$200 for second and subsequent tours booked which must be paid within 3 days of booking or the reservation will automatically be cancelled. 2. PAYING THE BALANCE 2.1 The balance of the vacation price must be paid by no later than 45 days before your scheduled vacation departure date which shall be by the due date stated on the confirmation issued to you by Contiki. 2.2 Air Payment: Payment in full for your airfare booked in conjunction with your Contiki vacation may be required at time of booking. Upon receipt of full air payment, your airfare, tax and fuel surcharge are final. This would be regardless of any future price fluctuations. 2.3 If payment isn’t made by the due date, Contiki may assume that you have cancelled and cancellation charges in accordance with clause 3 below will be levied by Contiki. 2.4 Tickets and other documents won’t be forwarded until full payment has been received by us. 2.5 In the case of Late Bookings made within 45 days of your departure, the full cost of the vacation will be payable immediately on booking and we reserve the right to provide all travel documents at the vacation departure point. 2.6 Contiki reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should payments not be received within the above specified periods. 2.7 Travel documents will be sent to you approximately 21 days prior to tour departure* (providing full payment has been received). However, if travel documents are required the next day or earlier than 21 days prior to departure* (providing full payment has been received), a fee of $35 per mailing will apply. Bookings made and/or payments received within 30 days of departure* incur a $35 per mailing document delivery fee. Any documents delivered outside the USA will incur a minimum fee of $50. The actual cost will be advised at time of booking. 3. IF YOU CANCEL 3.1 If notice of cancellation is received by Contiki 45 days prior to tour departure*, the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained along with the Travel Protection. 3.2 Notice of cancellation must be made in writing directly to Contiki. 3.3 The following scale of charges will apply when notice of cancellation is given after booking is confirmed: COACH TOURS (LAND ONLY) No. of days prior to Cancellation Fee tour departure* as a % of the total land price. No. of days prior to Cancellation Fee Tour departure* as % of the total land fee 45 days or more: The non-refundable deposit 44-22 days: 25% of tour fare 21-8 days: 30% of tour fare 7-1 days: 50% of tour fare Day of departure*/No show: 100% Extra night hotel accommodations that are cancelled within 14 days of booked date will incur 100% cancellation fee, outside 14 days the following fees will be charged: 45-22 days 25% 21-15 days 30% AIR ARRANGEMENTS These cancellation charges apply for airline arrangements made by Contiki: Prior to Airline Ticketing service fee - $50 per person After Airline Ticketing service fee - $75 per person plus any airline imposed penalties which may be up to 100% of the air ticket value. 3.4 Any cancellation of additional services booked prior to and after your tour or resort booking, such as pre and post accommodation and transfers, that are cancelled within 14 days of the tour departure incur a 100% cancellation fee. 3.5 These cancellation fees are in addition to any cancellation fees that may be levied by your Travel Agent. 3.6 Please note that Contiki is not liable for any cancellation penalties incurred on any other travel arrangements including air tickets purchased separately from the air and land included package. * Please note: the departure date constitutes the date indicated on Contiki’s confirmation
4. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR BOOKING 4.1 If after your booking has been confirmed, you wish to change to an alternative departure date or you wish to change to a different Contiki vacation, you may do so subject to availability and provided the new vacation date is also in this brochure. 4.2 A fee of US$30 per person will be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed. Any alterations risk the loss of air space or increased airfares. Name changes or corrections will be treated as a cancellation of air and all normal air cancellation fees will apply. A change of tour date or tour itinerary within 45 days of tour departure will be treated as a cancellation, and normal cancellation fees will apply except when the change is to an earlier departure date of equivalent or greater value in which case a US$30 per person amendment fee will be charged. 5. VACATION DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 5.1 Please read the brochure carefully for those items included in the price. No allowance or refund can be made for meals, accommodation, excursions, etc. that you elect not to take, or when museums, shops, etc are closed. Hotel facilities may vary from place to place. Meals may vary in style. 5.2 Contiki’s vacations are specifically planned for those in the 18 through 35 age group. Consequently the facilities and activities on a Contiki tour are not appropriate to persons outside this age bracket. If you have a question regarding the age groups, you should discuss this thoroughly with Contiki staff personnel. 5.3 Contiki strives to provide a safe, enjoyable and memorable travel experience for all passengers. Contiki welcomes passengers with special needs or disabilities. However, please note the following: • Passengers are required to advise Contiki, in advance, of any physical, medical or other special needs that require accommodation. • All guests must ensure they are medically and physically fit for travel. Contiki may impose safety requirements necessary for the safe operation of the tour. Contiki may also exclude an individual from participating in a tour or an activity if that individual’s participation poses a direct threat to health or safety. • Contiki does not provide personal devices (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids or prescription eye glasses) or services of a personal nature (such as pushing a wheelchair or assistance in eating, toileting or dressing). A companion capable of providing such assistance must accompany any passenger who requires services of a personal nature. • Contiki does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. Contiki is not responsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour, or for the quality of the care or services received. • Passengers should be aware some tours include rough terrain, extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven pavement, steps and locations which may not be easily accessible or accessible by wheelchair. During the tour, Contiki may make arrangements with carriers, hotels and other independent suppliers to provide travel services. These parties are independent entities over which Contiki has no control. Accommodations on international tours may differ from those in the United States. Contiki cannot guarantee disability access or accommodations for passengers traveling on international tours. • Contiki may, in its sole discretion, decline the booking of any passenger or remove any passenger who cannot comply or refuses to comply with Contiki’s terms and conditions. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred in the event a passenger is removed from a tour. Passengers agree not to hold Contiki or any of its related entities liable for any actions taken under these terms and conditions. 5.4 You are responsible for all travel arrangements and costs to/from the point of commencement/conclusion of the vacation. 5.5 There may be times when the Contiki Tour Manager or Representative has to make a decision in your best interest or the best interests of their group. You agree to comply with the authority and decisions of the appointed Contiki Tour Manager or Representative and the laws of the country in which you are traveling. If you do not so comply or if, in the Contiki Tour Manager’s or Representative’s opinion, you are not compatible with the general enjoyment and well being of other members on the tour or the smooth operation of the vacation itself, we reserve the right to refuse to let you continue with the tour. We do not tolerate the possession or carriage of illegal or restricted substances (drugs). Furthermore, you agree that your fellow travelers and any Contiki Representative has the right to travel/work in a safe environment. Any threats to their safety, well being or inappropriate behavior by you, whether verbal or physical, will be taken extremely seriously and may result in the immediate termination of your vacation. In either event, you will be responsible for your own repatriation and related costs and have no claims against us. 5.5.1 You are responsible for any costs incurred as a result of damage or excess cleaning fees related to your accommodation. You are advised to immediately report any pre-existing damage in your room to hotel staff and/or a Contiki Tour Manager as soon as it is discovered. 5.6 Where the passenger occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither the operator or service providers, agents or co-operating organizations shall be liable for any illness, injury or death or any loss or damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn at the time of the accident or incident. 5.7 It is your responsibility to have a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates required for your selected vacation as well as any necessary vaccinations and to comply with all applicable laws. 5.8 You agree that our Contiki Tour Managers or Representatives may take photographs and films of you while you are on vacation and that these may be used in our Group brochures and/or advertising or publicity material without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of such photographs and/ or films. 5.9 Should you have a complaint in respect of the vacation, you should inform the Contiki Representative during the course of the vacation and if the matter cannot be resolved after the representative’s best endeavors to do so during the vacation, your complaint should be made in writing to Contiki as soon as is reasonably possible after the vacation but within 42 days thereof so that your complaint can be investigated. Any claims made after the 42 day period will not be considered by Contiki. If you choose to write to Contiki via the Internet, please provide your home address so that we are able to reply to you in writing. 5.10.1 The agreement arising between the passenger and the Operators under this brochure and the booking made by the passenger shall be governed by the law of the State of California, City of Orange, which shall have exclusive jurisdiction in the case of any dispute between the parties. 5.10.2 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be re-written to give effect to the same purpose within the permitted limits of the law. The validity and enforceability of the other provisions shall not be affected. 5.10.3 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against us, you agree to pay all our costs, including but not limited to, attorney/client costs.
6. INSURANCE It is compulsory that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and evacuation expenses before you travel on a Contiki holiday. We strongly recommend your insurance also covers cancellation, personal liability and loss of personal property. Please check that the insurance covers all of the activities that you are going to be participating in. Some policies exclude certain adventure activities. This should be arranged at the time of payment of the deposit and will, in certain circumstances, cover you against loss of deposit or cancellation fees from the date of confirmation of your booking, as shown in the insurance policy. Contiki cannot be held responsible for your failure to take out appropriate insurance. You also agree to indemnify us against all third-party claims, actions, damages and remedies which may be brought against us in respect of your participation in the holiday. With the insurance of BerkeleyCare we are able to offer comprehensive travel insurance at group discount rates (see details on page 34). If you wish to have this valuable protection, please advise your Travel Agent to request the insurance and to include the cost of insurance when sending in your vacation deposit . Please note there will be no travel insurance provided unless you request it from your Travel Agent and the payment is forwarded to Contiki. Complete details of the coverage limitations and exclusions are included with your vacation invoice. 7. ILLNESS OR ABSENTEEISM In the event of your withdrawal from a vacation after the commencement as a result of illness, you must obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim. No refunds will be made for any absence from the tour. 8. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE VACATION PRICE Airfares (unless you purchase a land+air package), air-related taxes and fees passport and visa fees, insurance, laundry, phone calls, beverages, meals not detailed in the itinerary, tips to tour managers, representatives, drivers and local guides, items of a personal nature, excess baggage, and optional excursions. For more go to www.contiki.com/baggage 9. WEATHER CONDITIONS Under no circumstances can we be held responsible for snow or weather conditions, nor can any vacation be cancelled or amended by you at any time on the basis of snow or weather conditions. GENERAL 1. CONTRACTING PARTIES 1.1 The Booking Conditions detailed herein contain the entire contract between you and Contiki. No representation, term, warranty or condition can be expressed or implied by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation. This contract may only be varied in writing by a duly authorized officer or director of Contiki. 1.2 Your contract is with us as the tour operating company. At any time and at our complete discretion we may nominate to you in writing any other company or person to have the benefit of some or all of those provisions of this contract, which we may then specify, as if you had agreed the provisions concerned directly with that company or person in the first place as well as agreeing them with us. We may at our complete discretion assign all or any rights and liabilities arising under or by virtue of this or any other contract with you. 1.3 Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international conventions, national and international law, which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol & Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road & the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage & delay to passengers & luggage. Enrolment in & payment for a tour shall constitute agreement & acceptance by the passenger of the terms & conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. 1.4 Contiki is not a carrier or hotelier nor does it own aircraft, hotels or coaches. All bookings with carriers, hoteliers and other service providers are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations of liability imposed by those carriers, hoteliers, and other service providers. Please note that some of these limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss or damage to baggage. While we cannot accept any responsibility for any loss as a result of such actions or as a result of any act or omission of any such third-parties, we will give every reasonable assistance in helping to resolve any reasonable dispute. Please also note that Contiki cannot be held responsible for the failure of any of these parties to provide facilities or services for handicapped clients (see also 5.3 under Vacation Details & Conditions). 1.5 Please note that no airline or carrier depicted or recommended in this brochure by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure represent themselves either as contracting with any purchaser of a vacation from Contiki or as having any other legal relationship with any such purchaser. 1.6 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to print, however Contiki cannot be held responsible for printing or typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances. 1.7 The agreement arising between the passenger and the Operators under this brochure and the booking made by the passenger shall be governed by the law of The State of California, which shall have exclusive jurisdiction in the case of dispute between the parties. 1.8 In the case of computer or human billing error we reserve the right to reinvoice passenger with correct billings. 2. USTOA $1 MILLION TRAVELERS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. Contiki Vacations shares the coverage available under the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program with affiliates of The Travel Corporation who, as an Active member of the USTOA is required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Contiki Vacations customers in the unlikely event of The Travel Corporation bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 Million posted by The Travel Corporation may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Contiki Vacations. Complete details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program and a list of affiliates may be obtained by writing to USTOA at 275 Madison Avenue, Suite 2014, New York, New York 10016, or by email to information@ustoa.com or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com 3. VALIDITY The programs advertised in this brochure are valid from November 2011 to March 2013. 4. OPERATING COMPANIES Contiki’s Asian programs are operated as a division of Contiki Holidays (Australia) Pty Ltd. Contiki Holidays (Australia) Pty Ltd. is a subsidiary of Contiki Tours International Ltd., Picquet House, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 1AF, Channel Islands.
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Keep going with Contiki > Europe Summer
Europe Winter
South America
USA, Canada Australia & & Mexico New Zealand
See more with Contiki Contiki Vacations and our travel agent partners can offer you excellent prices on scheduled flights on some of the world’s top airlines. Combine this with Contiki’s sweet deals means you can see more for less. Take advantage of our exceptional multi-tour savings, early payment discounts, past passenger discounts and great flight deals & keep exploring. Heading to Australia or New Zealand? Book your air ticket & stop off on one of our Asia or South America trips on the way. Want to try South America? Take one of our awesome American or Mexican tours to break the journey. Speak to your Contiki Specialist or travel agent for ways to see more with Contiki.
How to book
Contiki Vacations
Reservations
801 E Katella Ave. 3rd Floor Anaheim CA 92805 Administration Tel: (714) 935 0808 Fax: (714) 935 2556
Tel: (800) CONTIKI (800) 266 8454 Fax: (714) 935 2556 Web: contiki.com CST#1001728-20
• Call Contiki at 1-800-CONTIKI, visit contiki.com or contact your local travel agent to confirm that there’s space on the tour you have chosen. You can add a pre- or post-night to your Contiki tour (if available) at the same time. • At the time of booking, you must pay a non-refundable deposit of US$200 per person for first tour and US$200 per person for second and subsequent tours which must be received by Contiki within 3 days. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. • Once your deposit has been received, Contiki will send you or your travel agent confirmation of the booking details. • The balance of the reservation must be received by Contiki no less than 45 days before the departure date, or at the time of booking if less than 45 days before departure. If payment is not received by Contiki, we will not be responsible for lost land and air reservations.
Groups & special interest tours
Contiki loves the planet The text pages for this brochure are printed on 100% recycled paper. By doing this we’re using less trees & sending less waste to landfills. You can help too, by recycling this brochure when you’re done. Either pass it on to a friend to read, or pop it in your recycling collection. Easy.
01-36 Asia Cover_USD.indd 2
If you’re looking for something completely different for a group of 25 or more, our Custom Groups Department in Europe, North America, Central America, South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand have been helping those with specific group travel requirements for years! School and University trips, performance groups, wine tours, culinary tours, ski tours, you name it we’ve done it. From supplying competitive quotations to helping you plan the best itinerary right down to the last detail, our world-wide team of experts are able to arrange a custom designed vacation or incentive trip to meet the needs of your group. Email: alumni@contiki.com
• Contiki will then send your travel documents and detailed information to you or your travel agent about your vacation.
Important By paying the US$200 deposit per person per tour to your travel agent, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the Booking Conditions as set out on p.35 which make up the contract between you and Contiki.
DRIVEN BY SERVICE
Contiki is represented in Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA. Contiki is a registered trademark of Contiki Tours International Ltd, Guernsey. © Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
Contiki Vacations is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability. www.TheTravelCorporation.com
Label excludes cover
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