ASIA 2016/17
SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, China & Japan
Create the stories now that you’ll recount for decades to come. Make new friends from new places. Celebrate individuality, diversity, connections and a little bit of craziness. Live for the moment. Find comfort outside your comfort zone. See the world through youthful eyes, with a little bit of naivety and a truckload of optimism. You have one life. One shot. Make it count.
THIS IS YOUR life. YOU ONLY GET TO LIVE IT ONCE. BUT IF YOU DO IT RIGHT, ONCE IS ENOUGH.
CONTIKI A unique way to see Asia
Travelling Asia with us is choosing better ways to stay and ultimate culture at unbeatable value. You’ll find yourself seeing the best of Asia by day and relaxing at comfy, central accommodation at night, with private air-conditioned transfers to get you around (and included internal flights as well). With the logistics sorted by the professionals (that’s us), you’re left with the fun, and exploring the best that Asia can offer. See Asia the right way. with us you’ll... S tay in 3 and 4 star hotels or unique Special Stays each and every night
E xplore Asia in perfect group sizes of maximum 30 people
ravel by plane, train & waterway - we T take the quick and scenic route
ravel with the best team in the T business, an English-speaking Trip Manager with you every step of the way
ive back to the local communities G you visit, we’re all about ethical travel ave more included as part of your H adventure, more than anyone else or going alone Travel with 18-35 year olds exclusively
S leep easy knowing it’s the best possible value and free from the logistical burdens and stress of going it alone
CONTENTS The Contiki difference Where we go What you get Ways to travel Better ways to stay What's included ME Time (free time) Our Team Food in Asia How we travel Social & online tools
4 6 8 10 12 14 16 17 18 20 21
Save big on Asia Compare Contiki
22 23
Contiki Cares
24
DISCOVERY PLUS 25 Big Indochina Adventure 26 Asian Adventure
28
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER 30 Vietnam Highlights 31 Vietnam Experience 32
Japan Unrivalled
34
China Adventure
36
EASY PACE
38
Thai Island Hopper West 39 Thai Island Hopper East 40 Treadright Q & A Booking conditions How to book
41 42 43 44
CHARM CHUREE VILLA, KOH TAO
VIETNAM Limestone islands, stunning turquoise waters, and French fused cities are just some of the reasons why everyone is in a buzz about visiting Vietnam. Sashay your way through the chaos of Ho Chi Minh City and drift down the fairytale of Halong Bay.
Great Wall of China
BEIJING
XI’AN
SHANGHAI
LAOS Perhaps the most underrated destination in Asia, Laos drips in countryside charm and curious culture. Even in its capital, Vientiane, you can sit by the Mekong undisturbed, sipping Lao coffee while youngsters kick a soccer ball and locals take a sunset cycle.
Guilin
YANGSHUO
PAKBENG
LUANG PRABANG
CHIANG RAI
VANG VIENG
CHIANG MAI
VIENTIANE
HANOI
HALONG BAY
HUE Da Nang
HOI AN
BANGKOK SIEM REAP NHA TRANG
THAILAND From the bright lights of Bangkok to the vibrant blue seas of Koh Samui, Thailand is a country of diverse appeal. Temples and traditions, markets and nights spent dancing under a full moon, and more delicious food than one traveller could ever dream of.
PHNOM PENH KOH TAO KOH PHA NGAN KOH SAMUI PHUKET KOH PHI PHI
KRABI
HO CHI MINH CITY MEKONG DELTA
CAMBODIA Ticking off the World Heritage site of Angkor Wat is but a fraction of Cambodia’s magic and appeal. Uncover history in the capital of Phnom Penh, visit colourful markets in Siem Reap and encounter the friendliest of locals wherever you go.
CHINA China will spark your imagination and set your curious mind racing. Enjoy the metropolis of Shanghai known as ‘Paris of the East’, devour Peking Duck in the city of Beijing and see the Great Wall from our secret local spot.
Hida
HIROSHIMA Miyajima Island
Matsumoto
TAKAYAMA Mt Fuji TOKYO KYOTO HAKONE OSAKA Nara MT KOYA
HONG KONG The name of this eclectic city translates to Fragrant Harbour, not surprising given the spark Hong Kong will set to your senses. Hike up Victoria Peak for stunning views of the bay or ferry across the harbour for a spot of shopping.
WHERE
JAPAN Stumble into hidden record stores, soak in steaming hot springs, sing your heart out in a karaoke bar and savour sushi until you’re bursting at the seams. Traditional and tranquil, modern and manic, Japan is everything you expect and so much more.
MORE TRIPS. MORE INCLUDED. MORE ME TIME. THE BEST VALUE. 6 COUNTRIES. 34 CITIES. 8 UNIQUE ITINERARIES. 3 TRAVEL STYLES. And one fine way to see Asia. As the original travel company for the young, wide-eyed and curious, we know where travellers want to go. From Ho Chi Minh City to Hiroshima to Koh Tao and Kyoto, we cover the must-see destinations across Asia (and beyond). Here’s a taster of the 6 countries we visit – just a small peek of the destinations that we love.
Have the curiosities of Asia set your tail wagging? Wait until you hear about our journeys across Latin America, the USA and Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond…
ASIA 2016/17 07
Practical Bits
Van Loi Hotel, Hoi An
Tuk-tuk ride, Bangkok
Incredible Experiences
Grand Palace, Bangkok
practical bits
INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCES
To us, hassle-free travel is spending zero time on worry and stress. Say farewell to endless wasted hours scouring the web to find the best price and decent accommodation, or worrying about where to catch the bus or train (and finding someone to watch your bag!) With us, every detail is taken care of, guaranteed.
The Asian experiences you’ve been waiting for. We pack more of the things you’ve been dreaming about into our trips than anyone else… FACT.
INCLUDED TRANSPORT INCLUDED CENTRAL & COMFORT-PACKED ACCOMMODATION BREAKFAST DAILY & MORE INCLUDED MEALS THE MOST EXPERIENCED TEAM: 18 Trip Managers, 7 Drivers, 36 Local Guides
INCLUDED BLOCKBUSTER SIGHTS & CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS MORE ME TIME OPTIONALS & FREE TIME TO EXPLORE LOCAL GUIDES IN MOST CITIES FOR INSIDER ACCESS UNIQUE LOCAL TASTES ENDLESS must-DO experiences
The result? It’s hard to describe, but it’s the best feeling in the world. New places, new experiences, all with a bunch of fun-loving peeps.
HUNDREDS OF FIRSTS WIDENED EYES A FULLY ticked BUCKET LIST EUPhORIC MOMENTS FOMO-INDUCING INSTAGRAMS NEW mates FROM AROUND THE WORLD
ASIA 2016/17 09
Our trips are as unique as you are. THAT’S WHY WE’VE CURATED 3 DIFFERENT TRAVEL STYLES IN ASIA, guaranteeing YOUR ADVENTURE MEETS YOUR MINDSET
Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima Island
2 trips
from 14 to 25 days See it all, do it all • Get the most out of your time
P.25
• More choice • More destinations • More icons
4 trips
from 10 to 13 days
P.30
For the culturally curious • Go in-depth in your favourite regions • More local eats & Local Guides • Less travel time • More time in a single region
2 trips 9 days For the take-it-easy traveller • More ME Time
P.38
• Later starts each morning • 2 & 3-night stays
find out more at contiki.com/ASIA
ASIA 2016/17 11
Sawaddi Patong Resort, Phuket
Casa Angkor Hotel, Siem Reap
BETTER WAYS TO
STAY LONG DAYS SPENT EXPLORING THE CORNERS OF ASIA, NEED NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING BY NIGHT. UNLIKE OTHERS, WE SAY NO TO ROUGHING IT, AND YES TO COMFORT. FOR US WHEN IT COMES TO ACCOMMODATION, ‘NICE’ JUST WON’T SUFFICE. BEDS LIKE CLOUDS, INCLUDED DAILY BREAKFAST FIT FOR A KING & A LITTLE LAP OF LUXURY WHEREVER YOU GO. PLUS WE KEEP OUR STAYS CLOSE TO THE ACTION. JUST ANOTHER REASON CHOOSING CONTIKI MEANS THE BEST VALUE WAY TO STAY IN ASIA. Stay connected with WiFi at all hotels.
Elephant Crossing Hotel, Vang Vieng
Henjokoin Temple Special Stay, Mt. Koya
Visit contiki.com/waystostay asia for more details of THE hotels & Special Stays we visit Junk Boat Special Stay, Halong Bay
COMFORT & A LITTLE MORE LUXE Goodbye hostels, see you later camping; you’ll never get that with us. We’ll be nesting in 3 and 4 star hotels, thanks very much. Unlike when you travel with others, we have pools, air-conditioning, hot showers and Wi-Fi as standard. With us, breakfast is included each and every day and luxury surroundings really set the royal scene. Shiralea Resort, Koh Pha Ngan
CENTRAL LOCATIONS Is there anything worse than wasting time trekking to and from your hotel, in a sweltering cab with a fare meter clocking in overdrive? It won’t happen on our watch. We stay where the vibes are strong and the location’s heartbeat can be heard. Casa Angkor Hotel, Siem Reap
Unique Experiences
Van Loi Hotel, Hoi An
A jungle resort on the island of Koh Tao. A traditional Ryokan guesthouse in the Japanese village of Hakone and an overnight junk boat cruise coasting the cliffs of Halong Bay (we’re the only company that do this by the way). These are just some of the experiences on offer with Contiki where the word “accommodation” just doesn’t say enough. These are memorable encounters that will stay with you for a lifetime.
ASIA 2016/17 13
Angkor Wat
We give back in the places we visit. Read more about what we do on p.24.
MORE INCLUDED
EXPERIENCES By choosing Contiki you’re choosing to travel with the company who includes more experiences, sights and sounds in Asia as part of every single trip. Great Wall of China sound like you? Or is a boat ride in Vietnam more your jam? Photo at Angkor Wat on your hit-list? Whatever the Asian moment you’re hunting, we’re bound to include it as part of your trip price. Don’t take our word for it either, see opposite for real photos taken by travellers on our trips.
See ASIA through the eyes of our travellers...
Included Junk Boat Special Stay, Vietnam
Included visit to the Grand Palace, Bangkok
Shot by @bernadettttte on the Vietnam Highlights trip • Included on all trips to Vietnam
Shot by @rachybutcha on the Big Indochina Adventure • Available on 2 of our trips
Included visit to the Great Wall of China, Beijing
Included visit to the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, Kyoto
Shot by @ginaolivia86 on the China Adventure trip • Included on all trips to China
Included visit to the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, China
Shot by @antoniobrasse on the China Adventure trip • Included on all trips to China
Shot by @duck_mick on the Japan Unrivalled trip • Included on all trips to Japan
Included ritual offering alms to Buddhist monks, Luang Prabang
Shot by @aussiejacattack on the Asian Adventure trip • Included on all trips to Laos
Included visit to the Kinkaku-ji temple, Kyoto
Shot by @dynomatik on the Japan Unrivalled trip • Included on all trips to Japan
Included visit to Angkor Wat, Cambodia
INCLUDED MEKONG BOAT RIDE, VIETNAM
Shot by @rachybutcha on the Big Indochina Adventure • Included on all trips to Cambodia
Shot by @sageoftheworld on the Big Indochina Adventure. • Included on 2 trips to Vietnam.
These don’t even touch the surface of what we include as part of our trips. See the snapshot section on our trip pages for what’s included on each of our 8 unique itineraries, and search for our trip hashtags for even more inspiration.
ASIA 2016/17 15
Free time, Koh Phi Phi
Cooking class, Chiang Mai
ME TIME
Kayaking, Halong Bay
Let’s not beat around the bush: no one gives you more ME TIME (free time) than us. You’ve come to Asia to explore, and frankly there’s exploring a-plenty in this wild and wonderful continent, so we give you the free time you need to do just that. Skill it up at cooking schools in Thailand, Vietnam or China, or visit a native hill tribe in Chiang Rai – we’ve got a host of options on offer and get you the best deal out there through our well connected network of local friends. Relaxing with a cocktail at sunset more your thing? We get it, and with us you get the time to do just that. Look for the symbol on the trip pages for some inspiration on how to spend your ME Time.
Hill Tribes, Chiang Rai
Shannon, Trip Manager
Quang, Local Guide
your
team
IT’S NOT HARD TO SEE WHY THE WORDS LEGEND, KNOWLEDGEABLE, AND EVEN GURU GET THROWN AROUND ABOUT OUR TEAM IN ASIA. Ever wished you’d had someone right there to ask where the ATM is, the bathroom, or how to get from A to B when you travel? Painful right? You won’t get that with Contiki. With us, our 24/7 team are with you every day of your trip and are ready with all the info you need as you explore Asia. And, there’s no need to stress about where to go, or hotel and transport bookings. They work hard, and know the sights
and sounds of Asia like it’s their own backyard. They’ve worked for Contiki in other parts of the world too, they live to travel and can deal with anything you throw their way. And on our trips, we don’t believe in paying extra for the essentials like insider knowledge when you travel. That’s why we partner with Local Guides in almost every spot, all included as part of the trip.
The Contiki Difference
On each trip you get our expert team: • Trip Manager With you 24/7 and your experts on anything and everything Asia • Local Guides in MOST destinationS Insider access included • Driver To get you around this incredible continent with ease
ASIA 2016/17 17
ASIAN FOOD
SENSATION BREAKFAST DAILY & MORE DELICIOUS LOCAL MEAL EXPERIENCES This isn’t just about satisfying hunger. This isn’t just about enjoying new flavours. This is about tradition, culture, and the full spectrum of mind-altering food experiences in Asia. This entire CONTINENT is an aromatic spin of simmering, brewing and frying delicacies. all uncovered by us and waiting for you to discover.
We’ll have you visiting a tea garden by the Mekong Delta, eating dinner at sunset on a private Junk Boat in Halong Bay and supporting a charity restaurant in Phnom Penh. (Just to name a few foodie inclusions that are all part of the package.) This is all topped off with included breakfasts and a wealth of hot tips from our guides on where to tantalise the tastebuds for your ME Time meals.
We’ve got you covered with some unique & delicious included foodie experiences:
BREAKFAST DAILY IN EVERY DESTINATION
LOCAL TEA GARDEN MEKONG DELTA, VIETNAM
included local dinners IN MANY DESTINATIONS
Hoi An
We give you all the ME Time (free time) you need to discover Asian cuisine & offer heaps of optionals to get your tastebuds going:
COOKING CLASSES IN THAILAND, CHINA, & VIETNAM
Sushi making course TOKYO, JAPAN
Hida Beef, Teppanyaki & Okonomiyaki dinners JAPAN ASIA 2016/17  19
Included flights (no low cost airlines)
Tuk-tuk, Thailand
Bullet Train, Japan
Private coach transfer
how
Long-tail boat, Bangkok
we
travel Long tail boats, rickshaws, songthaews, tuk-tuks, and bicycles. In Asia, the journey is genuinely as fun as the destination. Unlike many other group travel companies operating in Asia, we’ve mapped our way around the continent without the overnighters on crammed buses and the many days wasted in transit. Comfort, style and convenience are the Contiki way to travel. It’s that little extra Contiki flair you won’t get if you travel any other way.
WHAT’S INCLUDED? • An overnight junk boat around Halong Bay • A bullet train ride through Japan • Artfully selected internal flights that save you precious travel time without foregoing anything scenic • Private air-conditioned mini vans with a driver we trust • Local transport experiences
Junk boat, Halong Bay
Rickshaw, Hanoi
VISIT
CONTIKI.COM Check out the range of trips on offer, our amazing inclusions and top deals available
GET INSPIRED!
Reviews
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Don’t just take our word for it, check out trip reviews and see what our past travellers have to say. And once you’ve finished your trip, leave a review yourself!
Check out contiki.com to get inspired no matter what your travel destination may be, whether it’s Europe, New Zealand, Australia, Latin America, USA, Canada or Asia. Read our country pages devoted to highlighting our fave spots around the world, discover our awesome videos or just learn a little more about us!
(contiki.com/reviews)
MEETUPS
MANAGE YOUR BOOKING
(contiki.com/meetups)
Meet the rest of your travel group before you go and start chatting. Or download our App and access MeetUps on your iPhone or Android.
(contiki.com/managebooking)
Check in for your trip before you go, saving you time and paperwork on day one of your adventure.
Looking for inspiration to feed your wanderlust? Six-two by Contiki is a travel and lifestyle site bringing you the best of the best from the travel world. Packed with legendary stories, essential travel hacks and insider guides from those in the know, plus a whole heap more, don’t you think it’s time to go explore?
Join the conversation on one of our social channels. TWITTER (twitter.com/contikiuk)
INSTAGRAM (instagram.com/contiki)
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YOUTUBE (youtube.com/contiki)
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CONTKI APP (contiki.com/app)
VINE (vine.co/contiki)
SNAPCHAT (contiki.com)
PINTEREST (pinterest.com/contiki)
TUMBLR (contiki.tumblr.com)
VISIT contiki.com/six-two
Your bookings & trip itinerary
Meet & Mix before you travel Meetups!
OUR NEW CONTIKI APP!
DOWNLOAD NOW, IT’S FREE!
YOUR DAILY ESSENTIALS - 5 day weather forecast
With you before, during & after your trip
ASIA 2016/17 21
CHECK OUT THE BEST DEALS AT CONTIKI.COM/DEALS
SAVE
PAY EARLY, SAVE MORE! It’s really pretty simple. Book and pay early for the best deal on your trip!
#1 save up to £260*
#2 save up to £195*
#3 save up to £130*
How? Pay in full before 23rd Dec 2015, & save 10%
How? Pay in full before 28th Jan 2016, & save 7.5%
How? Pay in full before 25th Mar 2016, & save 5%
BOOK WITH FRIENDS BOOK 2 OR MORE TRIPS Can’t get enough of Contiki? We know the feeling. Book 2 trips of 7+ days and get £25 off your second trip!
We believe in the principle of the more the merrier! Start early and get your mates on board for an amazing adventure. Here’s how you can save, it’s really pretty simple. • 4 or more – everyone saves 5% • 7 or more – everyone saves 7.5%
TRAVELLING AGAIN? Travelled with us or one of our sister companies before? Welcome back to the family with 5% additional discount. (see p.42 for more)
• 10 or more – everyone saves 10% (or…invite an 11th and bring them or yourself, for free.)
PART PAY
INCLUDED TEAM
Once you’ve booked your trip, register it online and share with your family and friends, and let them help to fund your adventure! You can also make payments yourself to pay off your trip over time. Easy.
Our trips have an experienced Trip Manager plus Local Guides in some destinations, all included & with you 24/7! It’s priceless knowledge & insight into the destinations you can’t get if you travel alone. Leave the hard work to us & do what you came to do – have fun!
SAVE BIG Keep an eye on contiki.com/deals for the hottest ways to save big on your next trip. And if you’re still studying, we’ll give you a cool 5% off your trip.
The facts: all these discounts apply to the land portion of your trip price only (this excludes taxes, included flight costs, extra accommodation & optional activities. Your trip price does not include the costs of international flights to/from Asia that start or end your trip). You can combine loyalty discounts (‘Travelling Again’), group discounts (‘Book with Friends’) multi trip discounts (‘2 or more’) & early payment (‘Pay Early’) discounts on trips of 7 days or longer. Pay Early savings do not apply to bookings made within 45 days of trip departure and are not combinable with Last Minute Deals. Group discounts (‘Book with friends’) is available on all trips. A 5% student discount is available in conjunction with a valid student card. The Pay Early savings above only apply to departures on or after 1st April 2016. Pay early savings of £260, £195 & £130 based on Japan Unrivalled p34.
COMPARE CONTIKI Travelling in Asia can come with its fair share of question marks. Where to stay, what to see, and let’s not start on finding your way around. It can leave you confused, worried, and stressed before your trip even starts. To lay it out in simple terms, we’ve compared a typical day travelling alone in Asia vs a day with us. Check it out and see how Contiki measures up. You choose.
GOING CONTIKI
GOING IT ALONE
Ohhh. yes. This is awesome, I’m loving the 4-star hotels with pools, air-con and all the trimmings and it’s a stone’s throw from the action, perfect for getting home after a night out. Forget this blissful bed for a minute, it’s Mai Tai o’clock at the pool bar – hello!
Now where IS my hotel? That door could be it, or maybe it’s that one over there? Hard to tell. I think this seems like a good location and it looks clean, who really knows. Hope there’s air-con and a pool, need to escape from this heat and get rid of this 20kg bag off my back.
ACCOMMODATION
How does my Trip Manager know everything about the places we visit and drive past? I’m not even going to need my iPod at this rate – going to stay up chatting with my group. This is almost as good as yesterday when I blinked and the included flight from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City was over. More time to explore for sure.
How do I find the local bus station again? Apparently the bus may come once a day, if we’re lucky. Going local is cool but in this heat I could really do with some air-con. How long is this drive?
Transport
Is it weird that I’ve known these people for a week and I feel like we’ll be friends forever? Our Trip Manager and Drivers are complete legends too. The 24/7 local advice and the historical talks have been priceless and the Local Guides in each destination are awesome.
Where’s the info centre? If only I could ask someone for some advice on where to go, what to eat, and more importantly for the facts on what I’m seeing. I need some directions, an ATM, and the bathroom before I can even start to see anything cool today.
TEAM It feels like everything’s included on this trip: • Accommodation • A Trip Manager and Drivers • Local Guides • Entry to the sites • Transport • And all the travel hassle. It doesn’t get much better than this.
If I have to withdraw cash or reach into my wallet one more time, I’m honestly going to hit the fan. I thought I’d spend nothing being in Asia, but it’s actually all adding up given how much I want to see and do while I’m here, as well as accommodation costing more than I thought for the comfort I want.
INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
Every breakfast included, we’re talking omelettes, fresh fruit, cereal, all the goods! We’ve had some seriously delicious dinners, and our Trip Manager knows all the hidden gems for our free time too. Yesterday’s cafe? It’s not even on TripAdvisor and it was the best meal I’ve had in years.
The food here is pretty epic to say the least, but I can’t say I’ve had a good breakfast. In fact I usually skip it because I’m busy hauling my luggage to my next destination and don’t have a spare hand or moment to grab anything.
FOOD
CONTIKI
The best sights, epic memories & new friends for life. #NOREGRETS
TOTAL
GOING IT ALONE
Unexpected hurdles, hours of research & time wasted when I should have been having fun.
ASIA 2016/17 23
CONTIKI CARES Armed with the education of experience and open eyes, travellers understand that exploring the world consciously is of paramount importance. Supporting local communities and the environment is not optional – it’s essential. The good news is: small steps make big waves. That’s why we’re committed to making sure it’s easy for you to take a few strides in the right direction.
CONTIKI CARES PROJECTS Since 2008, Contiki has been partnered with some incredible organisations and people that we continue to support. These provide backing for sustainability and conservation initiatives, and educate travellers through Earth Month expeditions. TreadRight
2008 launches Sustainable Coastlines
2011
2012 Sharks Count
CONTIKI LOVES THE PLANET
Here are just 3 of the many ways we give back in Asia, including using family-run hotels and restaurants in many of the destinations we visit. The COPE Centre, Laos
Founded in 1997, the Co-Operative and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) was set up to support victims affected by un-detonated cluster bombs in Laos, a result of the Secret War almost 40 years ago. All Contiki groups travelling to Laos visit COPE and can purchase souvenirs or make a donation to purchase an artificial limb, with their donation being marked by a brick in the COPE wall with the group’s name. Contiki has purchased hundreds of limbs over the years, and can count many bricks in the wall as a result of generous donations from our travellers.
Sea Turtle Conservancy & SurfriderS Australia
2015 SURFRIDERS
2015 AUSTRALIA
Check out contiki.com/storytellers, contiki.com/contikicares and treadright.org for more.
Contiki is proud to be using 100% recycled LEIPA paper for the body of our brochures. It is just part of The Travel Corporation way, and another sign we really dig this planet of ours.
5 ways to tread lightly when travelling 1. Bring a reusable water bottle & reduce the use of plastics.
Friends Restaurant, Cambodia
Friends Restaurant in Phnom Penh offers a place for disadvantaged youths to work, either in the kitchen or front of house. Dinner at Friends is an included meal on our Cambodia trips, with all profits going directly back into the programme and to the children and youth it supports.
2013
2014 Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco
MAR Leadership Oceana
GIVING BACK
2. Explore cities by foot, bike or public transport on your ME Time to reduce your carbon footprint.
The Hoi An sisters, Vietnam
Two sisters from small town Vietnam moved to Hoi An 25 years ago. One a cook, one a seamstress, they set up a restaurant, then a clothing business, and have since expanded to include 4 restaurants and 3 clothing stores. Contiki have worked closely with them since 2009, with regular cooking classes at Market Restaurant, and are regular customers at their stores making high quality, custom made, affordable clothing. Our support allows the sisters to continue expanding their various businesses, in turn providing jobs for hundreds of Hoi An locals.
Visit treadright.org to check out our exciting new partnerships with WildAid and Alliance for Artisan Enterprise. See p.41
3. Switch off when you’re not in your hotel room to conserve energy. 4. Buy local – you’ll support the communities you visit & help reduce shipping from other countries. 5. Conserve water in hotels by turning off the taps when not in use – water is a scarce resource in many of the countries we visit.
SKIP NO CITY, MISS NO MUSEUM, TICK ALL TEMPLES. IF YOUR LIFE MOTTO SOUNDS A LITTLE LIKE THIS, YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE. LUXE STAYS, HASSLE-FREE ITINERARIES & PRIVATE TRANSFERS WILL HAVE YOU SEEING IT ALL FOR A FRACTION OF THE GO IT ALONE PRICE. OUR TRIPS
INCLUDED
Big Indochina Adventure ���������������������������������������� p.26 Asian Adventure ���������������������������������������������������������� p.28
• S ightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations
• M ore included – tick off your bucket list as you see all the big sights & have unique experiences
• E nglish-speaking Trip Managers & Local Guides in every destination
• M E Time – choose to discover this exotic continent in your own time or get involved in more ME Time optionals
Contiki.com/discovery-plus-asia
• A ll private air-con minibus transfers, included flights, trains & boat trips • Small groups (average 26 people)
We Love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
• B reakfast daily plus some delicious local meals included
• S tay in great locations, fabulous hotels with excellent facilities & some unique Special Stays that you can’t get any other way • T ravelling solo? ‘Room to myself’ options available for a little extra, or we’ll match you up with a same sex room-mate ASIA 2016/17 25
BIG INDOCHINA ADVENTURE
DISCOVERY PLUS China
VIETNAM
HANOI 2
Burma
25 DAYS
PAKBENG 1
LAOS
CHIANG RAI 1
FROM
£2799 £112 PP*
2 VANG VIENG
P/DAY*
CHIANG MAI 1
SOUTH CHINA SEA
VIENTIANE 1 1 HUE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £205. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS #BIGINDOCHINA
1 HALONG BAY
2 LUANG PRABANG
Da Nang
THAILAND
2 HOI AN
1
1 BANGKOK
SIEM REAP 2
CAMBODIA
NHA TRANG 2
1 PHNOM PENH
2 HO CHI MINH CITY
MEKONG DELTA 1
5 World Heritage sites visited Places visited Nightstops Special Stay night Coach or train Plane Malaysia
Hoi An
SNAPSHOT
THAILAND/LAOS/CAMBODIA/VIETNAM
24
ITINERARY, SIGHTSEEING & PRICING
HOW MUCH & WHEN
Day 1: Arrive Bangkok. Tuk-tuks, neon lights & buzzing street life, it’s bustling Bangkok! Arrive at the hotel, meet your Trip Manager & fellow travellers, then hit the city for a night out. Hotel
2016/17 CODE: BICA
Day 2: Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Take in the sights as we cruise the canals & see locals going about their day, before boarding our overnight train. (B) Overnight train Visit the Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha Guided klong (canal) tour M Group photo at Bangkok’s Grand Palace
• •
Day 3: Chiang Mai. Ask your Trip Manager for some recommendations on what to see, do or taste in magical Chiang Mai today. Tonight you could flex your skills in the kitchen with an optional cooking class. Hotel (B) M Hands-on cooking class 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) M Visit hill tribe villages in Chiang Rai Day 5: Chiang Rai to Pakbeng. After crossing the Thai/Laos border, we board our private boat & cruise the Mekong, seeing local life along the river. Arrive before sunset in Pakbeng for our overnight stay. (B,L,D) Guest house Special Stay See local riverside villages
•
Day 6: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang. Continue cruising the Mekong before hitting Luang Prabang. Take a sightseeing bike tour then check out the night markets. 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. Later, cool off with a swim or visit the Royal Palace. Hotel (B) M Kuang Si waterfall visit 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 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 French influenced capital. Later, we’ll visit That Luang & view Laos’ ‘Arc de Triomphe’. Hotel (B) Visit Luang Stupa & Patuxi Visit COPE support centre
• •
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 a restaurant where former disadvantaged youth are trained in hospitality. Hotel (B,RD) Visit the ‘Killing Fields’ & Genocide Museum Dinner at ‘Friends’ restaurant
• •
Day 12: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Catch a flight to Siem Reap, home to incredible Angkor Wat which we’ll be exploring tomorrow. Tonight, maybe visit the Psar Chas (old market) for handicrafts & exotic fresh produce. Hotel (B) Day 13: Siem Reap. Wake to watch the sunrise 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 iconic conical hats. Hotel (B) Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta. Today we journey to the Mekong Delta. We’ll try out sampans (local boats), see floating markets & live like locals. (B,L,D) Guest house Special Stay Mekong Delta fishing experience 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 via the legendary tunnels in Cu Chi – you can even go down into the tunnels & experience them first-hand! Hotel (B) 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 cruise the local waters for some swimming & snorkelling. Hotel (B) M Relaxing cruise with swim stops & snorkelling Day 19: Nha Trang to Hoi An. Fly to Da Nang & 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) M Guided tour of My Son Temples Day 21: Hoi An to Hue. Enjoy stunning views while driving over the “Pass of the Ocean Clouds”, then visit the famous sights in Hue. Hotel (B) Cross the Hai Van Pass Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda & the Imperial Citadel Cyclo ride M Group photo at Hue’s Imperial Citadel
• • •
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
•
Day 23: Hanoi to Halong Bay. Today we board a traditional junk boat on Halong Bay for our overnight cruise. See amazing views as we pass coves, cliffs & beaches. We stop for a swim before docking for sunset. (B,L,D) Junk boat Special Stay Visit the Sung Sot Caves Boat cruise to the Luon Cave
• •
Day 24: Halong Bay to Hanoi. Wake to more fantastic views from the junk boat before we return to Hanoi. Later you could go to Hanoi’s world-famous water puppet performance before a farewell dinner. Hotel (B,L) Day 25: Depart Hanoi. Your trip ends after breakfast, so it’s time to say farewell to your group. (B)
Start
Finish
Bangkok
Hanoi
Total Cost
£ pp*
17 20 24 27 31 3 7 10 14 17 21 24 28 2 6 13 20 23 27 3 10 17 24 1 8 15 18 22 25 29 5 8 12 15 19 22 26 29 3 6 10 13 17 20 24
Finish
Bangkok
Hanoi
Total Cost
£ pp*
2016
2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul
Start
NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr ● May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug ● ● ● ●
10 13 17 20 24 27 2 5 9 12 16 19 23 26 30 6 13 16 20 27 4 11 18 25 1 8 11 15 18 22 29 2 6 9 13 16 20 23 27 30 3 6 10 13 17
2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799
Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
31 7 14 21 28 4 11 23 30 6 13 20 27 4 7 11 14 18 21 25 28
Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan
24 31 7 14 21 28 5 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 31 4 7 11 14 18 21
2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799
Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr
25 28 1 4 8 11 15 18 22 25 1 4 8 11 15 18 22 29 5 12 19
2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799 2799
2017 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar
1 4 8 11 15 18 22 25 29 1 5 8 12 15 19 22 26 5 12 19 26
● ● ● ●
* Prices above are based on twin-share (multi-share on
train). If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement of £625 (only applicable in hotels). Included flights: This trip includes flights, as specified on the map opposite, as part of the trip price. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.42 for important info. A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. ● These trips will be in Thailand for Songkran (Thai New Year & water festival) or Laos for Pi-Mai Lao (Laos New Year & water festival) or Vietnam for Tet (Vietnamese New Year). Arrival transfers to your hotel are available. To purchase, speak to your travel agent or visit contiki.com/transfers. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.42.
Wow, just wow. What an amazing experience this trip was. Everything we did was just extraordinary, from being blessed by monks, travelling through Halong Bay on a private boat, everything just made you say “I can’t believe I am actually doing this!”
Unique Special Stays: 1 overnight train, 1 night in a Guesthouse in Pakbeng, 1 night in a Guesthouse in the Mekong Delta, 1 night on a Chinese style Junk Boat in Halong Bay & 20 nights in 3 star hotels
33
INCLUDED MEALS 24 breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D), 1 Regional Dinner in our favourite local spot (RD)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • All private coach transport • 6 internal flights • Local taxes, payments & service charges • Tipping for local staff included
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Private 2-day boat cruise along the Mekong River • Locally guided bike tour of World Heritage listed Luang Prabang • Guided visit of the COPE centre in Vientiane • Guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside • Cyclo ride to Hue’s ancient Citadel • Visit the Cu Chi tunnels Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with
•
ME TIME OPTIONS M Tasty Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An M Kuang Si Waterfalls trip in Luang Prabang See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
LOCAL CULTURE Head to X Bar in Siem Reap for live music, a chilled atmosphere & a half-pipe skate ramp! This rooftop bar is a hidden gem not to be missed.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ INDOCHINAADVENTURE
Carme
ASIA 2016/17 27
ASIAN ADVENTURE 14 DAYS
China
DISCOVERY PLUS Vietnam
Burma
PAKBENG
2 LUANG PRABANG
1 CHIANG RAI 1
SOUTH CHINA SEA
LAOS
VANG VIENG 2
VIENTIANE 1
CHIANG MAI 1
FROM
£1375 £99 PP*
P/DAY* THAILAND
1
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £109. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS #ASIANADVENTURE
1 BANGKOK 2 World Heritage sites visited Nightstops Special Stay night Coach, train or boat Plane
1 PHNOM PENH
Malaysia
Grand Palace, Bangkok
CAMBODIA
SIEM 2 REAP
SNAPSHOT
THAILAND/LAOS/CAMBODIA
13
ITINERARY, SIGHTSEEING & PRICING
HOW MUCH & WHEN
NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
Day 1: Arrive Bangkok. Tuk-tuks, streetside BBQs, neon lights & buzzing street life, it’s bustling Bangkok! Arrive at the hotel & meet your Trip Manager & fellow travellers, then hit the city for a night out. Hotel
2016/17 CODE: ASAD
Unique Special Stay: 1 overnight train, 1 night in a Guesthouse in Pakbeng & 11 nights in 3 star hotels
Day 2: Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Visit the incredible Grand 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. (B) Overnight train Visit the Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha Guided klong (canal) tour M Group photo at Bangkok’s Grand Palace
• •
Day 3: Chiang Mai. Explore Chiang Mai nestled in the foothills of northern Thailand, with over 300 temples. You could take an optional Thai cooking class tonight, chill by the pool or visit the famous Night Bazaar. Hotel (B) M Hands-on cooking class 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 spot. Hotel (B) M Hill Tribes visit 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. (B,L,D) Guest house Special Stay See local riverside villages
•
Day 6: Prakbeng to Luang Prabang. Continue cruising the Mekong before arriving in the historic hotspot Luang Prabang. Take a bike tour around town, visit Wat Xieng Thong temple & 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) M Kuang Si waterfall visit
Kuang Si Waterfalls, Laos
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) Visit Luang Stupa & Patuxi Visit to COPE Support Centre
• •
Day 11: Vientiane to Phnom Penh. Say goodbye to Laos & hello to 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 at a restaurant where former disadvantaged youth are trained in hospitality. Hotel (B,RD) Visit the ‘Killing Fields’ & Genocide Museum Dinner at ‘Friends’ restaurant
• •
Day 12: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Catch a flight to Siem Reap then maybe chill out with a visit to the Psar Chas (old market) for handicrafts & exotic fresh produce. Or for a dose of culture, see an Apsara dance performance. Hotel (B) 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 trip ends this morning after breakfast, so it’s time to say goodbye to your group & Trip Manager. (B)
Start
Bangkok
Finish
Siem Reap
Total Cost
£ pp*
17 Jan 30 20 Feb 2 24 Feb 6 27 Feb 9 31 Feb 13 3 Feb 16 7 Feb 20 10 Feb 23 14 Feb 27 17 Mar 1 21 Mar 5 24 Mar 8 28 Mar 12 2 Mar 15 6 Mar 19 13 Mar 26 20 Apr 2 23 Apr 5 27 Apr 9 3 Apr 16 10 ● Apr 23 17 Apr 30 24 May 7 1 May 14 8 May 21 15 May 28 18 May 31 22 Jun 4 25 Jun 7 29 Jun 11 5 Jun 18 8 Jun 21 12 Jun 25 15 Jun 28 19 Jul 2 22 Jul 5 26 Jul 9 29 Jul 12 3 Jul 16 6 Jul 19 10 Jul 23 13 Jul 26 17 Jul 30 20 Aug 2 24 Aug 6 31 Aug 13
Finish
Siem Reap
Total Cost
£ pp*
2016
2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul
Start
Bangkok
1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375
Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 23 30 6 13 20 27 4 7 11 14 18 21 25 28
Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
20 27 3 10 17 24 1 8 5 12 19 26 3 10 17 20 24 27 31 3 7 10
1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr
14 17 21 24 28 31 4 7 11 14 18 21 25 28 4 7 11 18 25 1 8
1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375 1375
2017 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar
1 4 8 11 15 18 22 25 29 1 5 8 12 15 19 22 26 5 12 19 26
* Prices above are based on twin-share (multi-share on
train). If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement is available for £339 (only applicable in hotels). Included flights: This trip includes flights, as specified on the map opposite, as part of the trip price. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.42 for important info. A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. ● These trips will be in Thailand for Songkran (Thai New Year & water festival) or Laos for Pi-Mai Lao (Laos New Year & water festival). Arrival transfers to your hotel are available. To purchase, speak to your travel agent or visit contiki.com/transfers. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.42. Note: This trip is part of the Big Indochina Adventure, so when you leave Siem Reap you’ll be waving goodbye to your group as they depart for Vietnam. Can’t take the FOMO? Why not extend your stay for even more fun through Asia.
17
INCLUDED MEALS 13 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 1 dinner (D), 1 Regional Dinner in our favourite local spot (RD)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • All private coach transport • 2 internal flights • Local taxes, payments & service charges • Tipping for local staff included
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Private 2-day boat cruise along the Mekong River • Locally guided bike tour of World Heritage listed Luang Prabang • Guided visit of the COPE centre in Vientiane Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with
•
ME TIME OPTIONS M Visit hill tribe villages in Chiang Rai M Kuang Si waterfalls trip in Luang Prabang See itinerary & visit contiki.com for further details
LOCAL CULTURE Head to Utopia in Luang Prabang at sunset. The views over the Mekong make it the perfect place to chill out & watch the stunning sunset.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ ASIAN-ADVENTURE
Get ready for an insane adventure! This trip exceeded all of my expectations and I certainly won’t be forgetting the experiences we had as a group any time soon.
Shaun
ASIA 2016/17 29
SKIMMING THE TOP JUST WON’T DO FOR A CURIOUS CAT LIKE YOU. THERE ARE QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED, CORNERS TO BE TURNED & HIDDEN TREASURES TO BE FOUND. GET INTO THE HEART OF EVERY COUNTRY YOU VISIT WITH more FREE TIME AND PLENTY OF INCLUSIONS. OUR TRIPS
INCLUDED
Vietnam Highlights ���������������������������������������������������� p.31 Vietnam Experience �������������������������������������������������� p.32 Japan Unrivalled ���������������������������������������������������������� p.34 China Adventure ���������������������������������������������������������� p.36
• Choose your country & discover its every detail
• Breakfast daily plus some regional meal experiences
• Sightseeing & orientations in every destination
• M E Time – get involved in our ME Time optionals or enjoy free time to dig deeper & discover the local culture
• English-speaking Trip Managers & Local Guides in every destination • I ncluded flights & train journeys plus private air-con minibus transfers
Contiki.com/in-depth-explorer-asia
• S mall groups of like-minded travellers (average 22 people)
We Love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
• L oads included – from blockbuster sights & historical monuments to secret local spots
• S tay in central locations at hotels with great facilities & experience unique Special Stays that you won’t find anywhere else • Travelling solo? ‘Room to myself’ options available for a little extra, or we’ll match you up with a same sex room-mate
VIETNAM
HANOI 2
1 HALONG BAY
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
1 HUE Da Nang
2 HOI AN 3 World Heritage sites visited Places visited Nightstops Special Stay night Coach or train Plane
NHA TRANG 2
HO CHI 1 MINH CITY
SOUTH CHINA SEA
VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS 10 DAYS 1 COUNTRY Malaysia
FROM
£915 £92 PP*
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £65. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS ITINERARY, SIGHTSEEING & PRICING
• •
•
• • •
#VIETNAMHIGHLIGHTS
SNAPSHOT
M Group photo at Hue’s Imperial Citadel 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 8: Hanoi to Halong Bay. Today we board a traditional junk boat on Halong Bay for our overnight cruise� See amazing views from the junk boat as we pass coves, cliffs & beaches� We stop for a swim before docking for sunset� (B, L, D) Junk boat Special Stay Visit the Sung Sot Caves Boat cruise to the Luon Cave Day 9: Halong Bay to Hanoi. Wake to more fantastic views from the junk boat before we return to Hanoi� Later you could go to Hanoi’s world-famous water puppet performance before a farewell dinner� Hotel (B, L) M Kayaking on Halong Bay Day 10: Depart Hanoi. Your trip ends after breakfast, so it’s time to say farewell to your group� (B)
•
• •
● These trips will be in Vietnam for Tet (Vietnamese New Year)� Insurance & visas: For important information please see p�42� Note: This trip is part of our epic 25-day Big Indochina Adventure, so when you start your trip, you’ll be meeting travellers who have already had a taste of what it’s like to explore Asia with Contiki, and who’ll be excited to have new friends for the adventure�
9
2016/17 CODE: VIHI Start
Finish
o Chi H Minh City
P/DAY*
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City is action-packed� Tonight, meet your Trip Manager & fellow travellers at the hotel before seeing the 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 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 turquoise waters on an optional cruise! Hotel (B) M Relaxing cruise with swim stops & snorkelling Day 4: Nha Trang to Hoi An. Fly to Da Nang & travel down to Hoi An� Enjoy a guided city 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 M Tasty Vietnamese cooking class 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) M Guided tour of My Son Temples Day 6: Hoi An to Hue. Enjoy stunning views while driving over the “Pass of the Ocean Clouds”, then visit the famous sights in Hue� Hotel (B) Cross the Hai Van Pass Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda & the Imperial Citadel Cyclo ride
Nha Trang
2016 Feb 1 Feb 4 Feb 8 Feb 11 Feb 15 Feb 18 Feb 22 Feb 25 Feb 29 Mar 3 Mar 7 Mar 10 Mar 14 Mar 17 Mar 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 Apr 7 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 May 2 May 9 May 16 May 23 May 30 Jun 2 Jun 6 Jun 9 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun 23 Jun 27 Jun 30 Jul 4 Jul 7 Jul 11 Jul 14 Jul 18 Jul 21 Jul 25 Jul 28 Aug 1 Aug 4 Aug 8 Aug 15
Hanoi
● ● ● ●
Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug
Total Cost
£ pp*
10 13 17 20 24 27 2 5 9 12 16 19 23 26 30 6 13 16 20 27 4 11 18 25 1 8 11 15 18 22 29 2 6 9 13 16 20 23 27 30 3 6 10 13 17 24
915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915
Start
o Chi H Minh City
Finish
Hanoi
2016 Aug 22 Aug 31 Aug 29 Sep 7 Sep 5 Sep 14 Sep 12 Sep 21 Sep 19 Sep 28 Sep 26 Oct 5 Oct 24 Nov 2 Oct 31 Nov 9 Nov 7 Nov 16 Nov 14 Nov 23 Nov 21 Nov 30 Nov 28 Dec 7 Dec 5 Dec 14 Dec 12 Dec 21 Dec 19 Dec 28 Dec 22 Dec 31 Dec 26 Jan 4 Dec 29 Jan 7 2017 Jan 2 Jan 11 Jan 5 Jan 14 Jan 9 Jan 18 Jan 12 Jan 21 Jan 16 Jan 25 Jan 19 Jan 28 Jan 23 ● Feb 1 Jan 26 ● Feb 4 Jan 30 ● Feb 8 Feb 11 Feb 2 Feb 6 Feb 15 Feb 9 Feb 18 Feb 13 Feb 22 Feb 16 Feb 25 Feb 20 Mar 1 Feb 23 Mar 4 Feb 27 Mar 8 Mar 2 Mar 11 Mar 6 Mar 15 Mar 9 Mar 18 Mar 13 Mar 22 Mar 20 Mar 29 Mar 27 Apr 5 Apr 3 Apr 12 Apr 10 Apr 19
Total Cost
£ pp*
915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915 915
* Prices above are based on twin-share� If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge� Single room supplement of £255 (only applicable in hotels)� Included flights: This trip includes flights, as specified on the map above, as part of the trip price� Please see ‘Included flights’ on p�42 for important info� A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking� Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx� 9:00am�
NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION nique Special Stay: 1 night on a U Chinese style Junk Boat in Halong Bay & 8 nights in 3 star hotels
12
INCLUDED MEALS breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 9 1 dinner (D)
INCLUSIONS Please see the Vietnam Experience trip on p�33 for information on our standard inclusions�
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside • Cyclo ride to Hue’s ancient Citadel Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with
•
ME TIME OPTIONS See itinerary & visit contiki.com for further details
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ VIETNAMHIGHLIGHTS
ASIA 2016/17 31
VIETNAM EXPERIENCE
China
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
VIETNAM
HANOI 2
Burma
12 DAYS
1
HALONG BAY
Laos
FROM
£1089 £91 PP*
P/DAY* 1 HUE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £80. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS
Da Nang
Thailand
2 HOI AN
#VIETNAMEXPERIENCE
NHA TRANG 2
Cambodia
2 HO CHI MINH CITY MEKONG DELTA 1 SOUTH CHINA SEA
3 World Heritage sites visited Places visited Nightstops Special Stay night Coach or train Plane Malaysia
Hoi An
SNAPSHOT
VIETNAM
11
ITINERARY, SIGHTSEEING & PRICING
HOW MUCH & WHEN
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City is packed with scooters, roadside shops, high-rises & reminders of the Vietnam War. Tonight, meet your Trip Manager & fellow travellers at the hotel before seeing the Ben Thanh markets. Hotel
2016/17 CODE: VIEP
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta. Today we journey into the Mekong Delta. We’ll try out sampans (local boats), take in local industries & see floating markets – giving a glimpse of everyday life on the water. Tonight, see a musical performance before dinner at our local guest house. (B,L,D) Guest house Special Stay Mekong Delta cruise Mekong Delta fishing experience See local industry 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 & some of the 250kms 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 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 turquoise waters on our ME Time 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)
Halong Bay
Day 6: Nha Trang to Hoi An. Fly to Da Nang & travel down to Hoi An. We take a guided tour through the Old Quarter, before some free time. Explore this city, known for its colourful fabrics & 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 M Tasty Vietnamese cooking class
•
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) 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-storey Thien Mu Pagoda & see the famous sights in Hue. Hotel (B) Cross the Hai Van Pass Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda & the Imperial Citadel Cyclo ride M Group photo at Hue’s Imperial Citadel
• • •
Day 9: Hue to Hanoi. Our morning begins with a flight to Hanoi. This city is an open-air museum & we’ll start with 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 from the junk boat as we pass coves, cliffs & beaches. We stop for a swim before docking for sunset. (B,L,D) Junk boat Special Stay Visit the Sung Sot Caves Boat cruise to the Luon Cave
• •
Day 11: Halong Bay to Hanoi. Wake to more fantastic views from the Junk Boat before we return to Hanoi. Later, you could go to Hanoi’s world-famous water puppet performance before a farewell dinner. Hotel (B,L) Day 12: Depart Hanoi. Your trip ends after breakfast, so it’s time to swap email addresses & say farewell to your group. (B)
Start
Finish
Ho Chi Minh City
Hanoi
Total Cost
£ pp*
2016 Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug
30 2 6 9 13 16 20 23 27 1 5 8 12 15 19 26 2 5 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 31 4 7 11 18 21 25 28 2 5 9 12 16 19 23 26 30 2 6 13
Start
NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
Finish
Ho Chi Minh City
Hanoi
Total Cost
£ pp*
2016 ● ● ● ●
Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug
10 13 17 20 24 27 2 5 9 12 16 19 23 26 30 6 13 16 20 27 4 11 18 25 1 8 11 15 18 22 29 2 6 9 13 16 20 23 27 30 3 6 10 13 17 24
1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089
20 27 3 10 17 24 22 29 5 12 19 26 3 10 17 20 24 27 31
Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
31 7 14 21 28 5 2 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 31 4 7 11
1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089
2017 Jan 3 Jan 7 Jan 10 Jan 14 Jan 17 Jan 21 Jan 24 Jan 28 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 7 Feb 11 Feb 14 Feb 18 Feb 21 Feb 25 Feb 28 Mar 4 Mar 7 Mar 11 Mar 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 Apr 8
Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr
14 18 21 25 28 1 4 8 11 15 18 22 25 1 4 8 11 15 18 22 29 5 12 19
1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089 1089
Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
● ● ● ●
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re
travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Unique Special Stays: 1 night in a Guesthouse in the Mekong Delta, 1 night on a Chinese style Junk Boat in Halong Bay & 9 nights in 3 star hotels
16
INCLUDED MEALS 11 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 2 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • All private coach transport • 3 internal flights • Local taxes, payments & service charges • Tipping for local staff included
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside • Cyclo ride to Hue’s ancient Citadel • Visit the Cu Chi tunnels Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS
Single room supplement of £290 (only applicable in hotels). Included flights: This trip includes flights, as specified on the map opposite, as part of the trip price. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.42 for important info. A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. ● These trips will be in Vietnam for Tet (Vietnamese New Year). Arrival transfers to your hotel are available. To purchase speak to your travel agent or visit contiki.com/transfers. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.42. Note: This trip is part of our epic 25-day Big Indochina Adventure, so when you start your trip, you’ll be meeting travellers who have already had a taste of what it’s like to explore Asia with Contiki, and who’ll be excited to have new friends for the adventure.
M Kayaking on Halong Bay M Guided tour of My Son Temples in Hoi An See itinerary & visit contiki.com for further details
LOCAL CULTURE While in Vietnam make sure you grab a legendary Banh mi sub sandwich. Famous around the world & packed with all kinds of edible goodness – they’re a must try.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ VIETNAMEXPERIENCE
I love to travel & explore & have to say that this was probably the best decision I have ever made. Vietnam was the most incredible country I have ever visited in my life. This adventure had absolutely everything you could ask for; culture, history, tradition & modernity, amazing food & tons of heavy duty exploring.
Paul
ASIA 2016/17 33
JAPAN UNRIVALLED
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
North Korea
13 DAYS
JAPAN
FROM
£2395 £185 PP*
P/DAY*
South Korea
SEA OF JAPAN
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £260. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS #JAPANUNRIVALLED
Hida
TAKAYAMA 2 2 KYOTO HIROSHIMA 2
OSAKA 1
Nara
Matsumoto
2 TOKYO
Mt Fuji
HAKONE 1
Miyajima Island
1 MT KOYA 5 World Heritage sites visited EAST CHINA SEA
Places visited Nightstops Special Stay night Coach or train
SNAPSHOT
JAPAN
12
ITINERARY, SIGHTSEEING & PRICING Day 1: Arrive Tokyo. Welcome to the bright lights & big city! With 3 nights here, there’s so much time for sights, exploring, shopping & more. Check into your hotel & get ready for your Japanese adventure NORTH to begin in the capital of history, culture & modern PACIFIC technology. Tonight, meet your Trip Manager & OCEAN fellow travellers then head out & explore. Hotel Day 2: Tokyo. We dive right into this fascinating city with a locally guided tour of the city’s must-sees. With our Local Guide leading the charge, you’ll get the inside track on the city, its monuments & temples. Later, opt to check out the show at the unique & lively Robot restaurant. Think cabaret meets technology meets super random – we love it! Hotel (B) See the Imperial Palace, Asakusa Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Shibuya, Meiji Jingu Shrine & Harajuku M Show at the Robot restaurant
•
Day 3: Tokyo. Wake up, grab a bite & enjoy a free day in Tokyo to explore your way. Opt to experience the traditional Japanese hot-spring baths with an Onsen experience – which many consider a mustdo tradition! Enjoy some ME Time with no shortage of things to see, do & experience. Hotel (B) Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building M Onsen experience
•
Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone. Enjoy your final free morning in Tokyo with an included guided tour of the world-famous Tsukiji fish markets, or opt in to advance your culinary skills with a tasty sushi-making course. After lunch, we say goodbye to the bright lights & buzz of Tokyo & head south to Hakone. Tonight, you’ll have a night to remember as you go local at our overnight Unique Special Stay, Ryokan (Japanese guesthouse = tatami mats & futons) with a delicious traditional dinner included. Contiki Special Stay, Ryokan (B,D) Tsukiji fish market See the Hakone Ropeway Hot spring experience M Sushi-making
• • •
Day 5: Hakone to Takayama. Next up, it’s Takayama via Matsumoto. Spend the full day exploring with our Local Guide on hand to give you the insider track on one of Japan’s most beautiful original castle cities. Then we head to the Hida folk village where you will see dozens of traditional houses & buildings well preserved to exhibit rural life in centuries gone by. Our adventure continues onto Takayama. On arrival, opt to experience a mouthwatering dinner of Hida beef. Delicious! Hotel (B) See Matsumoto Castle & Hida folk village M Hida beef dinner
Day 8: Hiroshima. Start the day with a ferry ride over to Miyajima Island. See the beautiful scenery, the traditional Japanese gates at the entrance to the shrine & the island’s famous & super cute residents – miniature deer, on the way to the stunning Itsukushima Shrine. In the afternoon, visit the Peace Memorial Museum. Then, relish some free time in Hiroshima to dig a little deeper into its noble history or enjoy some of the city sights. Hotel (B) See Itsukushima Shrine
•
Day 9: Hiroshima to Kyoto. After breakfast we’re off to Kyoto! On arrival, we’ll get straight into it as we take in the sights including stunning temples, beautiful gardens, colourful shrines & worldfamous geisha girls. Later, there’s a free evening to explore your own way, indulge in some local cuisine in the Shirakawa area or experience some of the vibrant Kyoto nightlife. Hotel (B) See Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion & Gion Area
•
Day 10: Kyoto. With a full day here, it’s all about fully immersing yourself into this awesome city to see what makes it tick, so we’ve got all the must-sees covered with a locally guided tour. Later, travel to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital city filled with historic treasures & heritage sites & visit Todaiji Temple – home to the world’s largest wooden building. Hotel (B) See Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sake Making Museum, Nijo Castle
NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
HOW MUCH & WHEN 2016 CODE: JAPN Start
Finish
Tokyo
Osaka
Total Cost
£ pp*
12 19 26 2 9 23 7 21 4
Finish
Osaka
Total Cost
£ pp*
2016
2016 Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May Jun
Start
Tokyo
B B A A A A B C C
Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun
24 31 7 14 21 5 19 2 16
2475 2475 2625 2625 2625 2625 2475 2395 2395
Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct
18 2 16 30 13 27 10 24 8
C C C A B C B B B
Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct
30 14 28 11 25 8 22 6 20
2395 2395 2395 2625 2475 2395 2475 2475 2475
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re
travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
A - Single room supplement of £699 (only applicable in hotels). B - Single room supplement of £619 (only applicable in hotels). C - Single room supplement of £539 (only applicable in hotels). A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking.
•
Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am.
Day 11: Kyoto to Mt Koya. Enjoy a free morning to take in the last of Kyoto, then hop on the train to Wakayama, one of the villages at Mount Koya. Tonight stay at a local guest house & enjoy a traditional Buddhist meal. Contiki Special Stay, Shukubo (B,D)
Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.42.
Day 12: Mt Koya to Osaka. Wake up & join in the tradition of an early morning Buddhist Service. We’ll then head out with our Local Guide for an in-depth tour of the Koyasan area before departing early afternoon for the final stop, Osaka. There’s free time on arrival before the final evening kicks off with an optional dinner & what is also considered a must-do in Japan... Karaoke! Hotel (B) Morning Buddhist service M Okonomiyaki dinner
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.
Unique Special Stay: 1 night in a Ryokan in Hakone, 1 night in a Shukubo on Mt Koya, & 10 nights in 3 star hotels
14
INCLUDED MEALS 12 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • All private coach transport • Local taxes, payments & service charges • Tipping for local staff included
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Locally guided city tour of Tokyo • Guided walking tour of Kamisan Town • Ferry to Miyajima Island & visit the Peace Memorial Museum • Locally guided sightseeing tour of Kyoto Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS
•
M Sushi-making experience See itinerary & visit contiki.com for further details
Day 13: Depart Osaka. Our trip ends after breakfast, so it’s time to swap email addresses as you say farewell to your Trip Manager & new friends. (B)
LOCAL CULTURE
•
Did you know it could take up to 20 years for sushi chefs to become an itamae & classed as grand master of their trade? That is some serious dedication to perfection!
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ JAPAN-UNRIVALLED
Day 6: Takayama. We head out to explore by foot this morning on a locally guided walking tour. Get the insider’s look at this traditional Japanese city, including the wonderfully preserved old town & authentic Edo style buildings. Pick up some local delicacies or gifts for the folks back home at the morning markets & see the last remaining Jinya house, restored to its 16th century former glory. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to explore Takayama. Hotel (B) See Kamisan no machi (Kamisan Town), Takayama morning markets & Jinya house
•
Day 7: Takayama to Hiroshima. We’ll head to our next destination on the famous Japanese transport – the bullet train! These trains head up to 320km/hr so will thrill those with a need for speed! On arrival in Hiroshima, spend your ME Time discovering the city remembered as the world’s first atomic bomb target during World War ll. Tonight, you could choose to join a traditional Teppanyaki dinner. Hotel (B) M Teppanyaki dinner
Torii Gate, Miyajima Island
ASIA 2016/17 35
CHINA ADVENTURE
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
Great Wall of China
BEIJING 3
12 DAYS
1
FROM
£1845 £154 PP*
P/DAY*
YELLOW SEA
1 XI’AN
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £125. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS #CHINAADVENTURE 5 World Heritage sites visited
Guilin
2 YANGSHUO
Places visited Nightstops Coach or train Plane
Burma
HONG KONG 2
Laos
Thailand
Cambodia
Malaysia
The Great Wall of China
SHANGHAI 2
CHINA
SNAPSHOT
CHINA
11
ITINERARY, SIGHTSEEING & PRICING
HOW MUCH & WHEN
Day 1: Arrive Beijing. Home to the 2008 Olympics & the political, educational & cultural centre of China…it’s bustling! Tonight, meet your Trip Manager & fellow travellers then head out & explore the city. Hotel (D) Peking Duck welcome dinner
2016 CODE: CHINA
•
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. 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 Sacred Way, entrance to the tombs of the Ming Emperors, before heading to the spectacular Great Wall of China after lunch. Hotel (B,L) Visit the Sacred Way 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 is dinner at a local restaurant & our train journey to Xi’an. (B,L,D)
Overnight train
• Visit a hutong • Lunch with a local family • Ride in a rickshaw • Visit the Beijing Summer Palace
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,D) Bike Ride on the Xi’an City Wall Orientation 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 loads on offer here. Try the City God Temple (Chenghuang Miao) for some bargains & stop 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 Shanghai skyline. Hotel (B) Visit the City God Temple complex Visit Shanghai’s Bund area Visit a Shanghai silk factory M Acrobat show
• • •
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. You could 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) M Cooking class
Finish
Total
Apr Apr May Jun Jun Jul
1845 1845 1845 1845 1845 1845
Hong Kong Cost £ pp*
27 10 8 22 19 3
Start
Beijing
Finish
Total
Jul Sep Sep Oct Nov Nov
1845 1845 1845 1845 1845 1845
Hong Kong Cost £ pp*
2016
2016 Mar Apr May May Jun Jul
10 nights in 3 star hotels 1 overnight train
7 21 19 2 30 14
Jul Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov
17 28 11 9 23 6
28 8 22 20 3 17
• •
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
Day 12: Depart Hong Kong. Our trip ends after breakfast, so it’s time to swap email addresses as you say farewell to your Trip Manager & new friends. (B)
17
INCLUDED MEALS 11 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D)
* Prices above are based on twin-share (multi-share on
train). If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement of £425 (only applicable in hotels). Included flights: This trip includes flights, as specified on the map opposite, as part of the trip price. Please see ‘Included flights’ on p.42 for important info. A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx. 9:00am. Arrival transfers to your hotel are available. To purchase, speak to your travel agent or visit contiki.com/transfers. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.42.
Day 10: Yangshuo to Hong Kong. Sleep in this morning, then we catch a flight to the bright lights of Hong Kong. After checking into our hotel, take an orientation tour of the local area followed by night markets & dinner at leisure. Hotel (B) 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 harbour. 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) M Farewell dinner
Day 5: Xi’an. After breakfast, we depart the city of Xi’an before a tour of the world famous ‘Terracotta Army’ complex. 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 the TangBo Art Museum Tour the ‘Terracotta Army’ complex M Spectacular Tang Dynasty show & dinner
Start
Beijing
NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • All private coach transport • 3 internal flights • Local taxes, payments & service charges • Tipping for local staff included
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • 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 complex • Entry to the 88th floor of Jin Mao Tower Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Impressions Liu Sanjie show in Yangshuo See itinerary & visit contiki.com for further details
LOCAL CULTURE There are over 11,000 restaurants in Hong Kong so what do you choose? Head to Mong Kok for endless delicious eats, with street food stalls on every corner!
Shanghai
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ CHINA-ADVENTURE This trip was unforgettable. It’s definitely the bang for your buck as well, so much is included! I was very nervous about travelling to China for the first time, but I loved it so much.
Lindsaynk9
ASIA 2016/17 37
THIS AIN’T NO MARATHON, IT’S A HOLIDAY! ONE WITH SOFT STRUMMING GUITARS, FLOATING HAMMOCKS AND DAYS SPENT BY THE SEA. IT’S TIME TO GET ACQUAINTED WITH some stunning SunSETS & SINK INTO THE VIBES OF ISLAND LIFE. OUR TRIPS
INCLUDED
Thai Island Hopper West ���������������������������������������� p.39 Thai Island Hopper East ������������������������������������������ p.40
• Take it easy & enjoy your time in each place • Minimum 2-night stays in each destination • Sightseeing & orientations on every island
Contiki.com/easy-pace-asia
• A n expert Trip Manager to take care of all the hassle • Included private minibus transfers & local ferries
We love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
• Small groups of like-minded explorers • Breakfast daily plus some tasty local dinners
• M ega ME Time – heaps of free time to discover the stunning Thai Islands your way, or, choose to join our ME Time optionals • S tay in the best locations at resorts with great facilities & experience our Special Stay bungalows • T ravelling solo? ‘Room to myself’ options are available for a little extra, or we’ll match you up with a same sex room-mate
THAILAND
EASY PACE
2 KRABI
(AO NANG)
PHUKET 3
ANDAMAN SEA
3 KOH PHI PHI
1
Nightstops
THAI ISLAND HOPPER WEST 9 DAYS 1 COUNTRY FROM
£615 £69 PP*
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £60. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS ITINERARY, SIGHTSEEING & PRICING Day 1: Arrive Phuket. Check-in to your hotel, then head out to explore Phuket, with its exotic sights & great food� Spend the afternoon getting settled in before meeting your Trip Manager & fellow travellers� Tonight, grab dinner & explore Patong’s pulsing nightlife� Resort ays 2 - 3: Phuket. There’s something for D everyone on Phuket – chill on the beach, hit the shops, or sip cocktails while watching the sun go down� Maybe try some of the water sports on offer or opt for a day tour to the popular “James Bond Island”� Resort (B)(B) M Day trip to “James Bond Island” M Simon’s Cabaret D ay 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 see an unbeatable panoramic sunset from a hill top� Later take in the atmosphere of Phi Phi by night� Resort (B, D) ays 5 - 6: Koh Phi Phi. An incredible island to D either 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 island’s fire twirlers, or kick back on the sand with a drink & relax� Resort (B)(B) M Exclusive full day boat cruise to Maya Bay with snorkelling & beach stops
#THAIWEST
D ay 7: Koh Phi Phi to Krabi (Ao Nang). Today we set sail to one of the most popular beaches on Krabi – Ao Nang� Set amongst the limestone karsts, Krabi has unspoilt 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) ay 9: Krabi (Ao Nang) to Phuket. After a D last morning in Ao Nang, we head back to Phuket where the trip 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)
Note: Due to seasonal variances, return ferry from Krabi (Ao Nang) may be replaced with a land transfer� Insurance & visas: For important information please see p�42�
SNAPSHOT
8
2016/17 CODE: TIPH Start
Phuket
P/DAY*
Koh Phi Phi
Finish
Phuket
2016 Jan 20 Jan 28 Jan 23 Jan 31 Jan 27 Feb 4 Jan 30 Feb 7 Feb 3 Feb 11 Feb 6 Feb 14 Feb 10 Feb 18 Feb 13 Feb 21 Feb 17 Feb 25 Feb 20 Feb 28 Feb 24 Mar 3 Feb 27 Mar 6 Mar 2 Mar 10 Mar 5 Mar 13 Mar 9 Mar 17 Mar 12 Mar 20 Mar 16 Mar 24 Mar 19 Mar 27 Mar 23 Mar 31 Mar 26 Apr 3 Mar 30 Apr 7 Apr 6 ● Apr 14 Apr 9 ● Apr 17 Sep 21 Sep 29 Sep 24 Oct 2 Sep 28 Oct 6 Oct 1 Oct 9 Oct 5 Oct 13 Oct 8 Oct 16 Oct 12 Oct 20 Oct 15 Oct 23 Oct 19 Oct 27 Oct 22 Oct 30 Oct 26 Nov 3 Oct 29 Nov 6 Nov 2 Nov 10 Nov 5 Nov 13 Nov 9 Nov 17 Nov 12 Nov 20 Nov 16 Nov 24 Nov 19 Nov 27 Nov 23 Dec 1
Total Cost
£ pp*
615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615
Start
Finish
Total Cost
Phuket
Phuket
2016 Nov 26 Nov 30 Dec 3 Dec 7 Dec 10 Dec 14 Dec 17 Dec 21 Dec 24 Dec 28 Dec 31
Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
4 8 11 15 18 22 25 29 1 5 8
615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615
2017 Jan 4 Jan Jan 7 Jan Jan 11 Jan Jan 14 Jan Jan 18 Jan Jan 21 Jan Jan 25 Feb Jan 28 Feb Feb 1 Feb Feb 4 Feb Feb 8 Feb Feb 11 Feb Feb 15 Feb Feb 18 Feb Feb 22 Mar Feb 25 Mar Mar 1 Mar Mar 4 Mar Mar 8 Mar Mar 11 Mar Mar 15 Mar Mar 18 Mar Mar 22 Mar Mar 25 Apr Mar 29 Apr Apr 1 Apr Apr 5 ● Apr Apr 8 ● Apr
12 15 19 22 26 29 2 5 9 12 16 19 23 26 2 5 9 12 16 19 23 26 30 2 6 9 13 16
615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615 615
£ pp*
* Prices above are based on twin-share� If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge� Single room supplement of £409� A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking� Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx� 1:00pm�
NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION nights in 3 & 4 star resort 8 accommodation
10
INCLUDED MEALS breakfasts (B), 8 2 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager • All private mini-van transport • Local ferry transport • Local taxes, payments & service charges • Tipping for local staff included
LOCAL CULTURE When on Phuket make sure you escape the crowds & head to stunning little Kata Noi for some laid-back vibes�
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ THAI-HOPPER-WEST
P lease book flights after 2:30pm� ● This trip will be in Thailand for Songkran (Thai New Year & water festival)�
ASIA 2016/17 39
GULF OF THAILAND
THAI ISLAND HOPPER EAST
KOH TAO 2
EASY PACE
THAILAND
3 KOH PHA NGAN
3 KOH SAMUI
1 1
Nightstops Special Stopover night
Koh Tao
SnApShoT
8
nIghTS hoTel ACCommodATIon Unique Special Stay: 3 nights in a bungalow in Koh Pha Ngan & 5 nights in 3 star hotels/resorts
10
InCluded meAlS 8 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D)
InCluSIonS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager • Local ferry transport • Local taxes, payments & service charges • Tipping for local staff included
loCAl CulTure
9 dAYS 1 CounTrY FROM
£529 £59 PP*
Start
Koh Samui
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO £50. SEE P.22 FOR DETAILS ITInerArY, SIghTSeeIng & prICIng
Days 2 - 3: Koh Samui. With two free days here, relax & soak up the rays as you explore Koh Samui’s many gorgeous beaches. Maybe enjoy a Thai massage, try some water sports, or take a tour of the island to see some of the local sights as you unwind on one of Thailand’s favourite island spots. Hotel (B)(B) M Island tour with waterfall swim
Known as ‘Turtle Island’, Koh Tao is the perfect place to dive – whether you’re a newbie or a pro, there is a diving opportunity for you here.
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 & experience the aquatic sites or just chill. Resort (B,D)
VISIT ConTIkI.Com/ ThAI-hopper-eAST
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. Resort (B) Day 6: Koh Tao to Koh Pha Ngan. This morning try out the optional cruise, which takes you to a private island before we jump on a ferry & sail to the party island of Koh Pha Ngan for a taste of the buzzing island atmosphere, famed for its legendary Full Moon Parties. We’ll stay in a relaxed setting, just off Haad Yao Beach. (B,D)
#ThAIeAST
2016 CODE: TIKS
P/DAY*
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 Trip Manager & fellow travellers. Tonight find a cool local spot & indulge in a delicious Thai meal before some free time. Hotel
how muCh & when
Bungalow Special Stay M Half-day snorkelling cruise Days 7 - 8: Koh Pha Ngan. You choose how to spend the next few days: we’d suggest by day relaxing on the beach under the coconut trees, by night heading out to one of the Moon Parties that Koh Pha Ngan is famous for - there’s always something going on. (B)(B) Bungalow Special Stay 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 to your travel friends. You can either take a free transfer to the airport or back to our start hotel in Koh Samui. (B)
Finish
Total
Koh Samui Cost £ pp*
26 Apr 3 9 Apr 17 14 ● Apr 22 17 Apr 25 21 Apr 29 24 May 2 27 May 5 30 May 8 4 May 12 7 May 15 11 May 19 14 ● May 22 18 May 26 21 May 29 25 Jun 2 28 Jun 5 1 Jun 9 4 Jun 12 8 Jun 16 12 ● Jun 20 15 Jun 23 18 Jun 26
Finish
Total
Koh Samui Cost £ pp*
2016
2016 Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May May May May May Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun Jun
Start
Koh Samui
529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529
Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep
22 Jun 25 Jul 29 Jul 2 Jul 6 Jul 9 Jul 14 ● Jul 17 Jul 20 Jul 23 Jul 27 Aug 30 Aug 3 Aug 6 Aug 11 ● Aug 14 Aug 17 Aug 20 Aug 27 Sep 3 Sep 10 ● Sep 17 Sep
30 3 7 10 14 17 22 25 28 31 4 7 11 14 19 22 25 28 4 11 18 25
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re
529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529 529
travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement is available for £309. A copy of your valid passport is required at time of booking. Trip starts 6:00pm & ends approx. 1:00pm. It is suggested to book flights after 2:30pm. ● These trips will be in Koh Pha Ngan for Full Moon Parties. Although every effort has been made to ensure that trip dates above coincide with Full Moon parties, dates may occasionally change at short notice due to Buddhist holidays. Arrival transfers to your hotel are available. To purchase, speak to your travel agent or visit contiki.com/transfers. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. Insurance & visas: For important information please see p.42.
TREAD LIGHTLY Contiki, in partnership with the TreadRight Foundation, encourages the sustainable development of tourism by supporting projects that benefit the environment, heritage and community.
TreadRight is a not-for-profit organisation established by The Travel Corporation and its family of brands. To date, the foundation has helped support more than 35 sustainable tourism projects worldwide. Contiki believes that we have a responsibility to create memorable travel experiences without putting tourism destinations at risk and there’s much more to that than just words on paper. TreadRight guides Contiki on all things sustainable - from helping to choose which global projects to support, to working with our operators, to supporting our very engaged global team and educating travellers on sustainable practices. While Contiki continues to strive to increase our sustainability efforts, we know there is much more we can do, and that’s where TreadRight comes in.
To learn more about TreadRight, their projects, including their new partnerships with Wild Aid and the Wilderness Foundation, and Alliance for Artisan Enterprise, plus the other 35 sustainable tourism projects worldwide visit treadright.org TreadRight Ambassador - Céline Cousteau A leading environmentalist, adventurer and explorer, Céline Cousteau truly embodies the TreadRight philosophy. As a documentary filmmaker and gifted storyteller, Céline has travelled the world working to help amplify the voices of the amazing individuals who are working to protect ecosystems, wildlife, and people. In 2015, we welcomed Céline as our official ambassador, helping us tell the stories of our projects and partners. To discover the amazing projects Céline is working on with us visit treadright.org.
Check out Treadright’s exciting new partnershipS: treadright.org
ASIA 2016/17 41
got a question? Answers to frequently asked questions & things you need to know: WHAT’S INCLUDED?
• Coach, train, boat, ferry transport, internal flights & ‘on trip’ airport transfers listed in the Snapshot section on the trip pages. • Accommodation, breakfasts, lunches & dinners listed in the Snapshot section on trip pages. • Sightseeing listed in the Snapshot section in each trip itinerary. Unless specified, entrance fees to these locations are included. • Experienced Contiki Trip 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 trip pages. • ME Time optional activities such as cooking classes, etc. • Lunches (unless specified under Snapshot section) & some dinners. • Anything not specified in the Snapshot section.
INCLUDED FLIGHTS
Flights as specified on individual trip itineraries are included as part of the price. As detailed within our Booking Conditions (p.43) under ‘General’, we rely on international conventions regarding air travel & other transportation as specified. Through enrolment & payment for your trip you acknowledge & 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 &/ or by boarding the aircraft you have accepted the airlines terms & conditions of travel, the application of all relevant International Conventions & applicable national & international law governing air transportation.
WHERE WILL I STAY?
Our hotel accommodation is always twin-share (except in Unique Special Stays and on overnight trains), staying in superior tourist class hotels, many of which are centrally located with great facilities. Twin-share is 2 people, either travelling together or as a same-sex room match. We also offer upgrades to single rooms for a supplement, but please note that on rare occasions the availability at some hotels can be limited.
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 have ultimate fun.
TRIPS WITHIN TRIPS
You may notice on some of our trips that we offer shorter trips within a larger itinerary allowing greater choice & flexibility for our travellers as to when they start and for how long they travel. This means some fellow travellers will join and leave during different stages of those trips. Life’s an adventure and one that’s best spent sharing new experiences with new friends. So, if you have the time don’t take a mini break, instead, choose to see as much of Asia as possible with us. The trip that allows you this extra flexibility is – Big Indochina Adventure p.26.
WILL I GET MORE INFORMATION?
Upon receipt of final payment, your trip documentation will be released 21 days prior to your departure. Make sure you visit contiki.com/ guide for our Travellers Guide. It’s packed full of essential info for your holiday. You’ll also receive a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary including full details & costs of all ME Time optional activities available on your trip. 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 & passport.
* 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 (where a suitable alternative exists).
HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED
You will need to ensure you allow enough money to cover optional lunches & dinners, souvenirs, shopping, drinks, optional activities, entrance fees to some attractions & evening entertainment. When travelling with Contiki in Asia, you’ll find that you’ll often be using local currencies, particularly in remote areas. The local currencies encountered on trip are the Riel (Cambodia), Kip (Laos), Baht (Thailand), Yuan (China), Dong (Vietnam) or Yen (Japan). The countries we visit rely largely on cash as opposed to credit cards. 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 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: this does not apply for Japan.
ME TIME OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES WHEN DO I CHOOSE?
Optionals are arranged & paid for during your trip. 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 trips 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 trip participants to ensure that these conditions are understood & accepted. Note: Travel insurance is compulsory for all Contiki Asia trips.
PAST TRAVELLER 5% DISCOUNT
We value our frequent travellers. All past Contiki and TTC sister brand customers are therefore eligible for a 5% discount on the land portion of their next trip. Conditions apply. Please see p.22 for details. Visit www.travelcorporation.com for details on our sister companies. Past traveller discount can only be applied to trips of 7 days or longer. Clients must have completed a trip before they can redeem the discount on a subsequent trip booking. A deposit must be received before the discount can be applied to the booking. It is not available on pre & post-trip accommodation rates & other selected products. The discount applies to brochured prices only & cannot be combined with any non-brochured special market promotions.
DO I NEED VACCINATIONS
At the time this brochure went to press (October, 2015), the following immunisations are recommended for travellers in Southeast Asia by http://travelhealthpro.org/country-information/: • Diphtheria & tetanus • Typhoid • Hepatitis A • Rabies • Hepatitis B • Japanese Encephalitis Malaria & dengue fever are also an issue within this region. You should consult a travel doctor who specialises 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 trip. You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your trip. Contiki is not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a trip. 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/travel-resources we have put together some information for all of the countries that we visit on our Asia trips. Consult your travel agent or visit http://www.gov.uk/ foreign-travel-advice 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 trip & 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 trip: • Due to the large number of flights on Contiki Asia trips, 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. On our trips, luggage is restricted to a maximum suitcase size of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) & maximum weight of 20 kg (44lbs) plus one small hand/day bag. Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept larger & heavier suitcases on trip. Use of a backpack/rucksack is suggested, but not required. Wheeled suitcases can be used on Contiki trips in Asia. On overnight rail journeys, overnight Junk Boat, overnight guest stays & other journeys, as directed by your Trip Manager, you will be required to store your main luggage & utilize your smaller bag.
NO COMPULSORY TIPPING REWARD ONLY EXCELLENCE!
Every country in the world has different tipping policies & in Asia, within service industries, tipping is common practice. Tipping is totally optional & only given if you feel the service has exceeded your expectations. If you think your Contiki Team have done an exceptional job then you may wish to tip them. This is entirely discretionary – it’s completely up to you. No compulsory tipping – reward only excellence!
BOOKING SECURITY
Contiki has been running trips for young people since 1962. It is a matter of law that tour operators must fully protect their clients’ funds under regulations specified by the European Community Package Travel Directive. We confirm that Contiki is fully complying with the law, therefore your monies are fully protected. Contiki Holidays Limited is a member of the Association of British Travel Agents under membership number Y1792. ABTA & ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel & assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct & the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ. Tel: 020 3117 0500 or www.abta.com. Contiki Holidays also holds a current ATOL Licence No. 10144. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package and/or flights from Contiki Holidays Limited you will receive a Confirmation Invoice from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.caa.co.uk. Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. Only bookings from countries subject to the EC Package Travel Directive will receive financial protection from ABTA and the CAA.
MANAGE YOUR BOOKING
Ready, set, go! You’re booked & it’s nearly go time, however just like when you’re taking a flight, it’s important you provide us with all your details before you can travel. Check out www.contiki.com/managebooking to log into your booking.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Cancellation, unexpected medical expenses, injuries, theft, lost luggage or money can significantly disrupt your holiday. It is compulsory that you take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel. Contiki has the right to refuse travellers without the required insurance cover to join our trips. 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 adventure sports and activities when travelling then please ensure your policy covers such. Some policies exclude certain adventure activities.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS
Photos courtesy of © Craig Howes p.2-3 Cherry Blossom, p.10-11 Itsukushima Shrine Miyajima Island, Geisha, p.19 Food, p.30 Geisha, p.34-35 Japanese Costumes, Food, Torii Gate, Miyajima Island. Photos courtesy of © Charm Churee Villa Koh Tao p.4-5 Beach Resort. Photos courtesy of © Sawaddi Patong Resort Phuket p.12 Hotel swimming Pool. Photos courtesy of © Elephant Crossing Hotel Vang Vieng p.12 Hotel Exterior. Photos courtesy of © Shiralea Resort Koh Pha Ngan p.13 Accommodation. Photos courtesy of © Sam Earp p.16 Hill Tribes, Chiang Rai, p.29 Kuang Si Waterfalls Laos. Photos courtesy of © Céline Cousteau p.40 Snorkelling.
booking conditions Once Contiki accepts your booking by confirmation thereof a contract is made between Contiki & you upon the terms & conditions set out below. The following Booking Conditions, have to the extent possible, been based on the UK interpretation of the European Community Package Travel Directive.
OUR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. YOUR HOLIDAY RESERVATION On receipt of your deposit, subject to availability and at our discretion, Contiki will reserve your place on your selected holiday. A contract is made between you and Contiki Holidays Limited (Registered in Guernsey No. 50681 (Contiki)) only upon your booking being confirmed and accepted by us and our communication thereof to you or your travel agent. 2. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION Contiki are a member of ABTA and hold ATOL Number 10144 issued by the Civil Aviation Authority, which provide for your protection in the event of our insolvency. Only bookings from countries subject to the EC Package Travel Directive will receive financial protection from ABTA & CAA. Many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed in this brochure. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. Any monies paid to us for non-licensable products (accommodation and packages which do not include flight elements) are protected by means of a bond held by us with ABTA. This means that if, in the unlikely event of our insolvency, the accommodation or package cannot be provided, the client will receive their money back or, if their stay has started, arrangements will be made for them to be able to continue as planned. 3. PRICE GUARANTEE Prices in this brochure are based on costs and exchange rates as of 3rd August, 2015. No surcharge in respect of costs or currency fluctuations will be made within 30 days of the commencement of the land content of any holiday or once payment of the deposit of your land trip has been received. The price of your travel arrangements can be varied due to changes in transportation costs such as fuel, scheduled airfares and any other airline cost changes which are part of the contract between airlines (and their agents) and the trip operator or organiser. The price of your travel arrangements can also be varied due to government action such as changes in VAT or any other government imposed changes and currency changes in relation to an exchange rate variation. In the case of any small variation, an amount equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges, will be absorbed or retained. For larger variations this 2% will still be absorbed for increases but not retained from refunds. Should the price of your holiday go down, by more than 2% of your holiday cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place. In either case there will be an administration charge of £1.00 per person together with an amount to cover agents’ commission. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you may cancel your travel arrangements and receive a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice. Whether you cancel or not you will also be entitled, on the terms set out in respect of major changes in clause 4.3 below, to accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements from us if we are able to do so. 4. IF WE CANCEL OR CHANGE YOUR HOLIDAY 4.1 Contiki reserves the right to change or cancel your booking in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. 4.2 Should change or cancellation prove necessary we will give you reasonable notice thereof, in the circumstances, and where available, offer you a comparable alternative. Where cancellation is necessary, a minimum period of 45 days notice will be given by us unless the circumstances leading to the cancellation were beyond our reasonable control. 4.3 If an alternative 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 holiday without payment of any transfer fee. 4.4 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. 4.5 Contiki is not responsible for the cost of any other travel arrangements affected due to cancellation or the rescheduling of any holiday. 5. HOLIDAY DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 5.1 The information in our brochure is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to print (October, 2015) but we cannot guarantee that any item or amenity mentioned will be available especially where we have no direct control over it. 5.2 Contiki will do their best, at their discretion, to select accommodation, sightseeing trips and transportation to give you good value for money. 5.3 Contiki constantly strives to improve trip 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.
6. LIABILITY 6.1 When you buy a flight inclusive holiday, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by them on behalf and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times. This is subject to the agent’s obligation to pay it to us for so long as we do not fail. In the event of failure, any money held at that time by the agent, or subsequently accepted from you by them, is and continues to be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us. Full payment for International flights (excluding those which are included in and not in addition to your chosen holiday) must be remitted at time of booking or within 7 days depending on the airlines ticketing deadline and is non-refundable, non-transferable and non-changeable. When you buy a holiday not including a flight, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by them on our behalf at all times. 6.2 We will be entitled to keep for our account any interest earned on such monies. 6.3 All monies paid by you to us through your travel agent or otherwise, whether in respect of the deposit or full payment, may be disbursed by us as and when we see fit, in respect of the services to be provided and/or fees payable under your selected holiday. The payment of a deposit or any other monies in respect of your holiday shall be deemed to be an authorisation for disbursement thereof as aforesaid.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY 1.1 In order to reserve your holiday, a deposit of £60, per person per trip must be submitted to Contiki within 7 days in respect of that holiday. If a booking is made within 45 days of departure from your home country full payment is due at time of booking creation. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. The deposit is accepted as a first installment of the holiday 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-refundable deposit of £60 per person, per trip, which must be within 7 days of booking or the reservation will automatically be cancelled. 1.3 Any special meal requirements will be made on a request basis only. Contiki cannot guarantee special meal requests nor will it assume any responsibility or liability if clients’ special meal requirements are not fulfilled. 2. PAYING THE BALANCE 2.1 Important: Contiki does not charge any additional fees for using a credit card to pay for our trips. 2.2 The balance of the holiday price must be paid by no later than 45 days prior to the scheduled holiday departure date from your home country. This date will be stated on the confirmation issued to you/your agent by Contiki. When making multi-trip bookings, full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to the scheduled departure date of the first departing trip. 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 will not 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 from your home country, the full cost of the holiday will be payable immediately on booking and we reserve the right to provide all travel documents via email. 2.6 Contiki reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should payments not be received within the above specified periods. 3. IF YOU CANCEL 3.1 Notice of cancellation must be made to Contiki or your travel agent as soon as possible. 3.2 Your deposit is non-refundable upon cancellation by you. 3.3 Upon cancellation you will be liable to pay a fee to cover the estimate of cost and expenses incurred by us in the terms of the schedule set out hereunder. This is expressed as a percentage of the holiday price and is calculated as follows: PERIOD OF NOTICE CANCELLATION FEE More than 45 days notice:.......................................................Deposit is forfeited 45-31 days.................................................................................. 25% of trip fare 30-8 days:................................................................................... 50% of trip fare 7-1 days:..................................................................................... 75% of trip fare Day of departure:....................................................................... 100% of trip fare NB: Please note, Contiki’s cancellation policy is different in Asia due to internal flight ticketing timeframes & ground transport confirmations. These must be booked well in advance in order to secure high quality services that adhere to our strict safety standards. Where the percentage cancellation fee is less than the deposit, the cancellation fee will equal loss of deposit. If the reason for cancellation falls within the terms of any holiday insurance policy which you hold, then any such charges may, subject to the terms of your insurance policy, be refunded to you by the insurance company. Extra night accomodations that are cancelled within 14 days of booked date will incur a 100% cancellation fee, outside 14 days the following fees will be charged: 45-22 days....................................................................................................25% 21-15 days....................................................................................................30% All cancellation policies valid as at 16th October, 2015 and are subject to change. Final policy will be confirmed at time of booking. 3.4 Any cancellation of additional services booked prior to and after your trip booking, such as pre and post accommodation and transfers, that are cancelled within 14 days of the trip 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. 4. INTERNATIONAL AIRLINE ARRANGEMENTS These cancellation/amendment charges apply for airline arrangements made by Contiki: Before airline ticket is issued: £30 per person fee After airline ticket is issued: £45 per person fee in addition to any airline-imposed penalties, which may be up to the full value of the ticket 5. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR BOOKING 5.1 If after your booking has been confirmed, you wish to change to an alternate departure date you may do so subject to availability and provided the new holiday date is also in this brochure. 5.2 A fee of £15 per person will be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed, unless the change increases the value of the booking. A change of booking within 45 days of departure will be treated as a cancellation and normal cancellation fees will apply (as detailed in section 3) except when the change is to an earlier departure date of equivalent or greater value, in which case a £15 per person amendment fee will be charged in addition to any amendment fees imposed due to internal flights/local ferries. 5.3 A name change to a different person will be treated as a cancellation. 5.4 A fee will be charged for any alteration to airline arrangements made by Contiki as per clause 4. 6. HOLIDAY DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 6.1 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.
6.2 Contiki’s holidays are specifically planned for those in the 18 through 35 age group. Consequently the facilities and activities on a Contiki holiday are not appropriate to persons outside this age bracket. If you have a question regarding the age groups, you are welcome to discuss this with a Contiki staff member. 6.3 Contiki must be advised of any medical conditions or physical disability requiring special attention before you book your holiday. If you do not advise us at this stage, we may refuse to accept your booking. We may also refuse you if we feel that the holiday chosen is not suitable without a suitably qualified companion. Contiki will try to help you with your requirements but cannot guarantee to do so, either on our own or our suppliers’ (such as hotels, restaurants and excursions) behalf. Many of our holidays involve getting on and off coaches, walking tours and other physical activities. Some holidays may not be suitable for you if you rely on a wheelchair or have certain other disabilities. The Company 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). Should your disability require you to have special assistance, it is a condition of Contiki accepting your booking that you provide evidence satisfactory to us that an able-bodied person will accompany you and is able to provide any special needs or services that you may require. Contiki will not be responsible for the failure of this person to provide these services .The Company does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. The Company is not responsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on trip, or for the quality of the care or services received. 6.4 You are responsible for all travel arrangements and costs to/from the point of commencement/conclusion of the holiday. 6.5.1 There may be times when the Contiki Representative has to make a decision in your best interests or the best interests of their group. You agree to comply with the authority and decisions of the appointed Contiki Representative and the laws of the country in which you are travelling. If you do not so comply or if, in the Contiki Representative’s opinion, you are not compatible with the general enjoyment and well being of other members on the holiday or smooth operation of the holiday itself, we reserve the right to refuse to let you continue with the holiday. We do not tolerate the possession or carriage of illegal or restricted substances (drugs). Furthermore, you agree that your fellow travellers and any Contiki Representative have the right to travel/work in a safe environment. Any threats to their safety, well being or inappropriate behaviour by you, whether verbal or physical, will be taken extremely seriously and may result in the immediate termination of your holiday. In such event, you will be responsible for your own repatriation and related costs and have no claims against us. 6.5.2 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 Trip Manager as soon as it is discovered. 6.5.3 The Company may, in its sole discretion, decline the booking of any passenger or remove any passenger who cannot comply or refuses to comply with the Company’s terms and conditions. The Company is not responsible for any costs incurred in the event a passenger is removed from a trip. Passengers agree not to hold the Company or any of its related entities liable for any actions taken under these terms and conditions. 6.6 Where the passenger occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither the operator or service providers, agents or cooperating organisations shall be liable for any illness, injury or death nor any loss, 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. 6.7 It is your responsibility to have a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates required for your selected holiday before your departure as well as any necessary vaccinations and to comply with all applicable laws. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of failing to obtain necessary visas. Any costs whatsoever regarding obtaining, replacing or changing visas whilst on trip (including accommodation, meals, flights and transfers incurred due to associated delays) are at your own expense. 6.8 You agree that our Contiki Representatives may take photographs and films of you while you are on holiday 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. 6.9 Should you have a complaint in respect of the holiday, you should inform the Contiki Representative during the course of the holiday and if the matter cannot be resolved after the representative’s best endeavours to do so during the holiday, your complaint should be made in writing to Contiki as soon as is reasonably possible after the holiday but within 42 days thereof so that your complaint can be investigated. If you do not write within 42 days, your rights under this contract may be affected. 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. 6.10.1 The contract and all matters arising in respect hereof shall be subject to Guernsey Law, unless we agree otherwise in writing. 6.10.2 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. 6.10.3 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. 7. 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. 8. ILLNESS OR ABSENTEEISM In the event of your withdrawal from a holiday 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 trip. 9. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE HOLIDAY PRICE: Airfares to and from your holiday destination (unless you have booked a trip and fly package), airport taxes, passport and visa fees, insurance, laundry, phone calls, beverages, meals not detailed in the itinerary, tips to Trip Managers, Trip Drivers, & Local Guides items of a personal nature, excess baggage and ME Time options. 10. WEATHER CONDITIONS Under no circumstances can we be held responsible for snow or weather conditions, nor can any holiday be cancelled or amended by you at any time on the basis of snow or weather conditions. 11. LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS Luggage is restricted to one reasonable sized, non-expanding suitcase size up to 29” x 20” x 10” (73cm x 50cm x 25cm) and the maximum weight of 20 kilos (44lbs.) plus one small hand/day bag that can go on the coach with you. No
metal frame backpacks are allowed. Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept larger suitcases on trip.
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 authorised 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 trip 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. Whilst 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 6.3 under Holiday 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 holiday 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. 2. ARBITRATION Disputes arising out of, or in connection with, this contract which cannot be amicably settled, may be referred to arbitration, if the customer so wishes, under a special scheme arranged by the Association of British Travel Agents, and administered independently by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. The scheme provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on the customer in respect of costs. Full details will be provided on request or can be obtained from the ABTA website (www.abta.com). The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking form. Neither does it apply to claims, which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. The application for arbitration and Statement of Claim must be received by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators within eighteen months of the date of return from the holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if the company agrees, but the ABTA code does not require such agreement. 3. VALIDITY The programmes advertised in this brochure are valid from January 2016 to April 2017. 4. OPERATING COMPANIES Contiki’s Asian programmes are operated by Contiki Holidays Asia Ltd., Travel House, Rue du Manoir, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH, Channel Islands. 5. 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. IMPORTANT NOTICE: ABTA statement: Contiki Holidays Ltd and Contiki Travel (UK) are members of ABTA under the following membership numbers: Contiki Holidays Y1792; Contiki Travel (UK) V0438. ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist when things don’t go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For more information on ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ, tel 020 3117 0500 www.abta.com DATA PROTECTION STATEMENT Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect the personal booking information held by us. This information will be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies. If you travel outside the European Economic Area, controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will only pass your information on to persons responsible for your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, we will be unable to provide your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons.). Where the data might be passed on for marketing purposes, you have the right to opt out of future marketing. You also have a right of access to data held which can be obtained by writing to Contiki Holidays Ltd, Travel House, Rue du Manoir, St Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands, GY1 2JH. FURTHER ADVICE For further advice please visit - www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo or call the ABTA Information Line Tel: 020 3117 0500 (calls are charged at local rate) This brochure was published in October 2015 and supersedes any other current brochure in the market.
Asia 2016/17 43
to book FREE CALL: 0808 281 1120
UK Marketing:
CALL: 020 8290 6422
Contiki Services Ltd. Wells House, 15 Elmfield Rd, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1LS
contiki.com
Tel: (020) 8290 6777
travel@contiki.com visit your local travel agent
Download/view: contiki.com/ebrochures
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