Europe 2009 Travellers Guide - Contiki Holidays

Europe 2009/10 Incl. Britain, Egypt & the Mediterranean

Travellers Guide

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Inside you’ll find lots of important information about your tour & all the places you’ll visit

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Welcome to Contiki At Contiki, we recognize that this may be your first trip to Europe so we have put this booklet together to provide you with as much background detail and information as we can about Europe and your Contiki holiday.

We have included our suggestions and ideas on questions that you may have, as well as providing general information on many of the countries you may be visiting on your trip. We hope this will help you in preparing for and enjoying your holiday. We have found from past experience that our clients enjoy their trip that much more having taken the time to read this booklet before leaving home.

Most holidays are as good (or bad) as people make them and ours are no exception. Over 45 years experience and hard work have gone into planning and organising your holiday, and throughout the trip we’ll be doing our best to make it a holiday of a lifetime. Nevertheless, in the end, the success of your holiday will depend on you, for you will only get out of it what you yourself put into it.

This booklet is produced and given to every Contiki client world-wide for consistency and throughout, we make reference to Concept/Budget and Time Out/Superior tours. For clarity, the terms Budget and Concept are interchangeable, it is merely the way we choose to market our European tours across different regions of the world. Likewise, with terms Superior and Time Out. Budget and Superior are referred to in North America, Concept, Camping and Time Out throughout the rest of the world.

We want to thank you for choosing Contiki - together we’ll prove that your choice for enjoyment, quality and value for money was the right one!

Ben Hall Managing Director Contiki Europe

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Personal details ABOUT ME: Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..................................................... ..................................................... email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mobile Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Blood Group: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Allergies: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s Licence (Home): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s Licence (International): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contiki ekit Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PIN: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EMERGENCY CONTACT: Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Relationship: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PASSPORT DETAILS: Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expiry Date: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Date passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Where passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HOLIDAY INSURANCE: Company Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Policy Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Contents Before you go • • • •

6-13

What to pack • Baggage allowance • Checklist Insurance • Passports and visas • Vaccinations Currency/credit cards • Leaving home Making phone calls • Flying hints

All about London • • • • •

14-21

Getting into town • London Underground map Contiki’s London hotels • Map of hotels Contiki’s Basement Useful information • Special events Special departures

Tour departure details

23-24

• Departure points • Pre-departure meetings • If you miss the coach

Touring the facts

25-29

• The Contiki team • Accommodation

General touring information • • • • • • • • •

30-45

Transport • Smoking • Music Budgeting • Optional meals & excursions Shopping • Photography • Health & hygiene Local customs • Tipping • VAT • Calling home Winter departures • Weekend & public holidays Clothing sizes • Temperature chart • Calender Useful words • Currency table • Mailing address Contiki approved shops & factories Travellers 10 Commandments

Europe

46-102

• Map • General facts

Contiki notes

104

Stay in touch

105

Contiki’s offices

106

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Before you go What and how much to bring One of the most stressful decisions to make on any holiday is what to pack. To alleviate your concerns, we have set out the following checklist of useful articles to bring and our guidelines of how much is allowed. When packing, the golden rule of seasoned travellers worldwide is: Decide how many clothes you want to take - halve the amount and that’s how much you’ll need!

Baggage allowance Baggage is restricted to one reasonably sized suitcase. Please ensure your suitcase is NO LARGER than 29” x 20” x 10” (73cm x 50cm x 25cm) and maximum weight of 20kgs (44lbs) (non expanding) for all Time Out/Superior and Concept/Budget tours and no larger than 28” x 18” x 9” (70cm x 45cm x 23cm) and maximum weight of 20kgs (44lbs) for all camping tours.

On all tours the suitcase size and weight is very strictly enforced. External metal framed backpacks or vanity cases are not permitted as they make it difficult to pack the coach.

Only 1 small piece of hand luggage will be allowed onto the coach (maximum weight of 5kg).

These requirements are for your own comfort and safety.

Please ensure that your suitcase is the correct size before departure. If not you will be asked to change your suitcase on the morning of departure thus incurring extra costs of a new suitcase and storage of excess luggage.

Checklist Please read the checklist and suggested clothing list below. In Europe, even in summer, it can be cool and wet. If travelling early or late season, then warm clothing is recommended.

Touring holidays • Rainproof jacket

• Jeans

• Shorts

• T-shirts

• Toilet Tissue • Writing material

• Thick Sweater/Jumper

• Underwear

• Insect repellent

• Swimwear - Beachtowel

• Socks

• Handkerchiefs - tissues

• Thongs - sandals - flip-flops

• ‘Going Out’ shoes

• Travel Alarm Clock

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Towel

• Flashlight

• Toilet bag and contents

• Sunglasses

• Sewing kit

• Suntan lotion

• Washing powder

• Aspirin - medicines etc.

• Adaptor if you bring hair dryer or electric shaver (this should be purchased prior to leaving home). European voltage is different to that of North America.

• Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses (if applicable) • Have you remembered your Rechargeable Phone card?

(You will find your Contiki ekit card in your document wallet join up before you depart to get BONUS call time and FREE text messaging - check it out!!)

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Before you go His and hers His: • Casual Shirts • Smart trousers • Tie • Blazer, Jacket or Suit (for evenings out) Hers: • Skirts • Dresses • Smart dress (for evenings out)

Hand luggage - overnight bag On many tours, it is beneficial and useful to carry and pack overnight bags for ferry crossings and overnight stops. We suggest that your piece of hand luggage serves as an overnight bag as well.

Safeguards Pre-planning is essential before any trip; especially planning for the unexpected. On the next few pages we list common areas where mishaps can occur. By following the advice given you can save your trip of a lifetime from becoming your worst nightmare!

Travel insurance All clients should have an insurance policy which covers the following: • Cancellation and Curtailment • Loss of/or damage to baggage • Loss of money (cash), travellers cheques or personal belongings • Medical insurance If you are bringing along expensive articles such as jewellery, or photographic equipment, check the value per item covered by your travel insurance. If it is minimal you may wish to take out extra cover on these items. Travel insurance can be obtained from your travel agent or insurance company.

Security Regrettably, there are professional gangs of thieves operating in many areas of Europe. Your most important possessions such as passport, money and camera, should be carefully guarded at all times. The best way to do this is to carry some form of money belt or shoulder holster, rather than a wallet or a purse.

Always keep a copy of your passport details and extra passport photos, your insurance policy, used and unused travellers cheque numbers and credit card numbers separate from the originals. You can also store important details in your Contiki ekit Travel Vault. You can then access them over the web or the phone if you ever need them. Under no circumstances can Contiki be held responsible for the safe keeping of your money and valuables.

Visas (please read carefully) Depending on your nationality, you may require visas to enter certain countries included in your tour. You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your tour. Contiki are not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a tour. Consult your travel agent to determine which visas you require and how to obtain them.

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Before you go Schengen visas The majority of our tours travel in countries that are covered by the Schengen Agreement which relates to visas. Citizens of many countries – eg. Australia, United States, Canada, New Zealand – can travel in the Schengen area without a visa. If you require a visa to enter the Schengen area you only need to obtain one visa which will allow you to travel in all Schengen countries.

Multiple-entry Schengen visas Schengen visas can be issued for single entry or multiple entries. If your tour travels outside of the Schengen area at any point you will require a multiple entry visa. Tours which require multiple entry Schengen visas are listed below: 21 Day Camping, 32 Day Camping, 25 Day Camping, 46 Day Camping, European Horizon, European Whirl, European Experience, European Spirit, European Escapade, European Contrasts, European Adventurer, Ultimate European, European Magic, Amsterdam to Barcelona, European Discovery, European Encounter, European Impressions, European Inspiration, European Vista, European Panorama, European Explorer, Spanish Spree, London and Paris plus Rome, Rome to Athens plus 3 day cruise, Mykonos and Island Cruising, Aegean Classic Cruise, Golden Fleece Cruise, Eastern Mediterranean Cruise, Spotlight on Greece plus 3 or 7 days Cruise, Russia and the Baltic, Russia and Scandinavia, Winter Wanderer

Multiple-entry Schengen visas Visas for non-Schengen countries Some of our tours also visit countries that are not covered by the Schengen Agreement. You may require visas for countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Switzerland, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, Norway, Sweden, Denmark or Russia. Depending on your nationality it may be possible to obtain visas for Turkey and Egypt upon arrival – you should check before you depart for your tour.

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Before you go Visa important 1. Visas can take up to six weeks and a fee is normally charged.

2. Failure to obtain all necessary visas could cause you to miss part of your tour and will result in you incurring considerable expense and inconvenience.

3. It is better to apply for all visas through your travel agent before you leave home. It is very important that the entry and exit dates are correct on the Russian visa. Your travel agent will contact Contiki for full details.

4. Contiki will provide you with Visa contacts from our London base at the Royal National Hotel, if necessary.

Health If you suffer from any form of illness, be sure to have an adequate supply of medicines or necessary prescriptions (this includes eyeglasses) before departing on tour. You must advise us through your travel agent of any important medical condition you may have, before departure.

Vaccinations No innoculations are compulsory at present for entry into European countries. However, regulations may change, so it is wise to consult your travel agent or doctor before travelling. In London, vaccinations are obtainable from: Masta Travel Health, 52 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SQ. Tel: 0845-600-2236 (from the U.K).

Open: Mon-Fri 8.30 - 18.30 Sat 10.00 - 17.00.

NB: We suggest that you are up to date with tetanus and polio vaccinations prior to commencing your holiday.

Money matters With all our modern day technology, there are so many different forms of money to tempt us. Nothing is more frustrating than finding that perfect souvenir only to find that you don’t have the right type of currency to purchase it. From cash to credit cards, what is best in Europe? The following advice should help alleviate many of your worries.

NB: See page 30 for advice on how much money to bring.

Currency/credit cards Access to money whilst on your tour is very important. We highly recommend that you carry your currency in a number of different ways so that you have access to money at all times.

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Before you go Currency/credit cards cont’d: It is always advisable to start your tour with some cash in local currencies such as Euro, Swiss Franc or Great British Pounds. Beyond that cash there are a number of options: • Access cash from your own bank account via a debit card – having a card with either the Visa or Maestro logos on it will mean you have access at a large number of cash machines.

• Purchase a pre-paid debit card via a company such as Travelex which allows you to load money onto the card which can be withdrawn while you are overseas. You may even be able to buy your card in Euro which means you know exactly how much you’re spending in advance.

• Credit cards – use your credit cards from home to reduce the amount of cash you need to carry. Most restaurants, shops, museums, sights, etc. in Europe will accept payment by credit card.

• Almost all cash machines in Europe require a pin number to be entered when using them – ensure your debit cards, prepaid cards and credit cards have a pin number connected to them.

Note: Contiki optional excursions can NOT be paid for by credit card.

Making phone calls Contiki Global Phonecard – Get your FREE Global Phonecard in your Contiki Pack!

Save money on calling home from around the World using a Contiki Global Phonecard!

Your Contiki Global phonecard is more than just a phonecard.

It has heaps of great value features: • Low cost international and long distance calls: Save up to 70% off payphones and hotel phones calling from over 150 countries.

• Each card comes with a FREE 5 minute call so you can let your family know that you arrived safely.

• Messaging: Friends and family can leave you voice messages for FREE - no matter where you are. You can then retrieve your messages over the phone or the web. Send SMS (text messages) from the web to any Cell Phone worldwide check it out at www.contiki.ekit.com..

• 24 x 7 Customer Service: Our multilingual team provide FREE assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call the free phone access number for the country you are in and press 0 # to speak with a consultant.

One of the best things about the Contiki Global phonecard is that it is RECHARGEABLE! Always go to www.contiki.ekit.com for all the latest access numbers and calling tips. If you are visiting a city where there is an economy number, use this for even cheaper rates. You may require a coin deposit for the payphone but the Contiki Global phonecard rate will be much cheaper. Dialling Toll Free access numbers usually require no coin deposit but the per-minute charge on your Contiki Global phonecard will be higher.

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Before you go Making phone calls cont’d: Save money and stay in touch wherever you are with the Contiki Global Phonecard!

Contiki International roaming SIM card If you want an even more convenient option, why not get yourself a FREE Contiki roaming SIM card? Go to www.contiki.ekit.com/mobile for more information.

It saves you 70% on Global roaming rates and works from all the countries that you will visit on your Contiki tour and more, over 110 Countries in total!

Using your Cell Phone from home while travelling can become very costly. With the Contiki Global SIM card calls cost from just 49c per-minute as well as FREE to receive calls in over 50 Countries! For more rates information go to www.contiki.ekit.com/mobile Save a bundle on your calling and texting from around the world and control your spending whilst travelling.

Top up your SIM card anytime anywhere either over the phone by dialling 191 or online at www.contiki.ekit.com.

Travel Journal – Get a FREE automatic Travel Journal with an ekit SIM card!

You could also get a FREE automatically updated record of your trip when you buy an ekit SIM card!

The travel journal automatically plots your current location using Google maps and uploads photos of where you are to keep family and friends back home up-to-date on your progress!

You have the freedom personalise your Journal as much or as little as you want! Log into journal online or text your entries direct to your Journal using your ekit SIM. You can also upload your own photos and let your friends and family comment on what a great time you are having!

Keeping in touch has never been easier or more fun! Simply go to http://www.contiki.ekit.com/ekit/tj/ to create your journal and leave your log in details with friends and family back home to let them follow your trip day-by-day. Journal auto-updates with cool features like local time and weather for your current location so folks back home know when to call and leave messages for you! Let mum and dad even top up your calling credit through logging into Journal so there is no excuse not to call home!

So buy a ekit SIM card today and set up your own Travel Journal at http://www.contiki.ekit.com/ekit/tj/

Flying hints Ensure you carry all your travel documentation in your hand luggage, plus your camera, toiletries, paperbacks, etc.

Make sure you take advantage of Duty-Free shopping but check the current Duty-Free limits that apply in the country of your destination.

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Before you go Flying hints cont’d: Don’t carry items packed by others and never accept packages or articles to carry from people not known to you. The longer flights to Europe can be made a little more enjoyable by wearing loose clothing and comfortable shoes, as well as walking the aisles regularly, eating sensibly and drinking plenty of fluids (preferably not alcoholic). Try to get some sleep and, upon arrival, adjust immediately into local time by waiting until evening before sleeping - this should relieve the effects of jet-lag.

Checklist • Have you labelled your suitcase inside and out?

• Have you all the necessary medication you will need?

• Have you got your airline tickets, passport, insurance policy, credit cards, visas, cash, Contiki’s ‘Ticket to Ride’ in your hand luggage? You can also store these important details in your Contiki ekit Travel Vault. You can then access them over the web or the phone if you ever need them.

• Have you made a photocopy of your passport?

• Have you got your driving licence and vaccination certificate with you?

Rheinuferst. 55-56 D-5 6 4 1 Kamp-Bo rnho fen

Tel.: 06773/341 Fax.: 06773/7110

www.loreley-linie.com

Enjoy the beautiful Rhineland scenery drifting by from the comfort of one of our Rhine-Cruisers.

See vineyards and small picturesque villages with all their halftimbered facades.

All our cruises offer restaurant facilities where you can sample refreshing German wine.

We are pleased to welcome you on board.

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All about London Checklist cont’d: • Have you got your camera and spare memory cards?

• Have you remembered your Rechargeable Phone Card?

(Contiki ekit card is supplied in your tour documents or can be obtained from the Contiki ‘Basement’ in London).

NB: You’ll need your Contiki ‘Ticket to Ride’ to board the Contiki coach on the morning of departure. Keep your passport on your person.

Getting into London From London Heathrow Airport

By Underground: Catch the Piccadilly Line from London Heathrow Airport directly to Russell Square Station, a few minutes walk from the Royal National Hotel & Imperial Hotel. Cost £4.00 single. Prices are guideline only and are subject to change.

Heathrow Express Train: This express train runs from London Heathrow Airport to Paddington Station and departs every 15 minutes from 05:10 to 23:30, 7 days a week. Cost £16.50 single.

Prices are guideline only and are subject to change. A taxi from there to the Contiki Basement, the Royal National Hotel and Imperial Hotel will be about £10.

From London Gatwick Airport By train: Catch the train from Gatwick Airport to Victoria Station from 01:05 to 23:48, 7 days a week and takes approximately 45 minutes. Timetable available at the station in the airport. Single: £11.00. Prices are guideline only and are subject to change.

Gatwick Express Train: This express train runs from London Gatwick Airport to Victoria Station from 05:20 to 01:35, 7 days a week and takes approximately 30 minutes. Timetable available at the station at the airport. Single: £16.90. Prices are guideline only and are subject to change.

A taxi from Victoria station to the Contiki Basement, the Royal National Hotel and the Imperial Hotel will be about £15.

Alternatively, take the London Underground Victoria Line from Victoria station to Green Park, change to the Piccadilly Line and go straight to Russell Square, which is a few minutes walk from the Contiki Basement, Royal National Hotel and the Imperial Hotel.

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All about London

Contiki’s London Hotels (see map on page 14).

Royal National Hotel (2 Stars), Bedford Way (enter from Woburn Place), London WC1H 0DG Reception Telephone: 020 7637 2488 We offer discounted rates for Contiki clients and the accommodation is based on twin and triple share only.

This is also the departure point for all Contiki tours that start in London (except the London and Paris tours), and the Contiki Basement is located on the lower ground floor of the South Wing of the Hotel.

Imperial Hotel (3 stars), Russell Square, London WC1B 5BB Telephone Reception: 020 7837 3655

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All about London Contiki’s London hotels We offer discounted rates for Contiki clients and accommodation is based on single and twin share only.

Both hotels are within a few minutes from Russell Square Underground Station. All rooms have colour TV with tea & coffee making facilities. There is a wide range of restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs and coffee shops either in the hotels or in the area. The Royal National Hotel and the Imperial Hotel are located near London’s West End, close to the British Museum, Oxford Street for shopping and Covent Garden and Leicester Square for nightlife.

NB: CHECK-IN AT THESE HOTELS (AS WITH THE MAJORITY OF HOTELS IN LONDON), IS 14:00 AND CHECK-OUT IS 11:00.

The Contiki Basement Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way London, WC1H 0DG Tel: 020-7637-0802 Fax: 020-7637-2121 email:basement.rep@contiki.co.uk The Contiki Basement is located at the Royal National Hotel along Bedford Way, with access to the Basement from the street only, and not from the hotel.

The Basement is open 7 days a week as follows: 01 May – 30 September 09:00 – 20:00 01 October – 30 April 11:00 – 19:00 Meet your fellow tour members here, chill out and catch up with new and old friends, and seek advice and a friendly smile from our helpful, knowledgeable Contiki Representatives. They will also give you information on your pre-departure meetings, departure times, tour arrival times, travel tips and general London information to make your stay in this exciting city more enjoyable.

On arrival, collect your "Welcome to London Pack", and take advantage of our wide range of facilities available at the Contiki Basement: Hotel check-in: If you are staying at the Royal National Hotel, come directly to the Contiki Basement to check into the hotel. If you are staying at the Imperial Hotel, you can go directly to the Imperial Hotel to check in.

Internet café: Use our internet café (at cost) to let your friends and family know you have arrived safely in London, or email after your tour with all your adventure stories. If you do not have an email address before you get here, your Contiki ekit card provides a free email service. Set up an address at: contiki.ekit.com.

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All about London The Contiki Basement cont’d: Luggage storage: If you want to head out and discover the energy of London, store your luggage with us until you want to check into your hotel after 2pm, for £1 per bag for the day. If you have done a lot of shopping, or have luggage over 20kg (44lbs), you can store your things at the Basement for the duration of your tour for £5 per bag per week.

Mail pickup point: You can have letters and parcels sent to the Contiki Basement, which you can pick up when you arrive.

Our address is: Contiki Basement, Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way, London WC1H 0DG England Please be sure to have your name clearly on the mail, with the date you are due to arrive, and if possible a booking reference number, to avoid confusion.

Day sightseeing trips out of London: Through Evan and Evans, we can offer you day trips to Bath, Stonehenge, Windsor, Hampton Court, Salisbury, the Cotswolds, Althorp, Warwick Castle, Canterbury, Leeds Castle and many more.

Please ask for more information.

Tour bookings: If you are interested in making the most of tour discounts, or are curious about which tour you want to do next, please see us for all the information, and we can book your tour for you on the spot!

Contiki merchandise: We sell sleeping bags and Contiki towels at the Basement, so no need to bring them from home.

Short break information: Contiki offer trips to Amsterdam for Easter, the Oktoberfest in Munich as well as the Edinburgh Tattoo every year. Book very early, as these are very popular!

Postcard and stamp sales: Write all your postcards on your arrival to ensure the postcard arrives home before you do. You can get stamps from us, and mail them from the Basement; all to save you time!

Luggage weighing scales: Come in any time during opening hours to check that your luggage is no heavier than 20 kg (44 lbs), as this rule is strictly adhered to on morning of departure.

Hand luggage must weigh no more than 5kg (11 lbs).

London pre-departure meetings: It is strongly recommended that you attend these meetings. You can meet your Tour Manager, Tour Driver and your fellow travellers, as well as get necessary paperwork completed. Bring your passport and other travel documents to the meeting.

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All about London The Contiki Basement cont’d: The Contiki Basement will not be open before the coaches depart in the morning, so please see the Reps for all your requirements the day or evening before your tour departs.

01 May – 30 September: All pre-departure meetings will be held in the London Coffee, in the courtyard of the Royal National Hotel at the following times: Concept/Budget and Camping Tours Hotel - Time Out/Superior Tours Great Britain and Ireland Tours

19:00 18:00 18:00

01 October – 30 April: All pre departure meetings will be held in the Contiki Basement at 18:00.

Morning of departure: All tours (except London and Paris plus Extensions tours) depart from the courtyard of the Royal National Hotel. Please meet in the London Coffee, which is situated in the courtyard, to have your luggage weighed and be directed to your Tour Manager by the Contiki Representative. If you miss your tour, please report to the Contiki Basement so we can help you to catch up with your tour.

Concept/Budget and Camping Tours: meet at 06:00 for 06:45 departure Hotel - Time Out/Superior Tours: meet at 06:45 for 07:30 departure Great Britain Tours: meet at 06:45 for 07:30 departure Arrivals of tours in London: Most tours arrive in London any time between 16:00 and 20:00, depending on weather, traffic, and other external factors out of our control.

Useful information Opening & Closing Hours: Shops: Monday-Sunday 9.00am-5.30pm. Times may vary locally.

Banks: Monday-Friday 9.30am-4.30pm. Several banks are also open on Saturday mornings.

Main Post Offices: Monday-Friday 9.00am-5.30pm.

Saturday 9.00am-1.00pm Telephones: ekit UK access number: 0800 032 6297 or London economy 020 7943 2772* ekit hints on calling in the UK: • When dialling on a pulse phone, after you dial the access number hold down the star key (*) key for two seconds to revert the phone from pulse to touch-tone.

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All about London Useful information cont’d: • When calling an economy Access Number * (e.g. London 0207 943 2772) you will be charged a per minute rate for making the local call by the UK telephone company. The Contiki ekit per minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

Phone boxes are usually red, green or black in colour. Most take a variety of coins or telephone cards which may be bought from the Client Information Centre, Post Offices and most newsagents displaying the green ‘Phonecard’ sign.

Tipping: 10% is usual in restaurants, unless a 12.5% service charge has been added.

International telephone/fax centre: Global Talk, 68 Marchmont Street, London, WC1 1AB Pubs: The pub is a British way of life and there are many different types in London. Opening hours: 11.00am-11.00pm in the central London area (pubs in the City area often close earlier).

Travellers Tips: • Be careful about local guides wanting to show you the sights of London and ensure they are recommended by an agency or the Tourist Board.

• Check the price of telephone calls from hotels before making them - use your Contiki ekit Phonecard.

• Always ask the prices of ice creams/hot dogs/chips from stands at central tourist spots.

• Beware of people offering to take your photo or asking for money no matter what the reason.

• Never leave your baggage unattended.

Useful London addresses & telephone numbers Tourist Boards: British Tourist Authority and London Tourist Board - Victoria Station, London SW1. Tel: 0870-225-0930 Wales Tourist Board - 34 Piccadilly, London W1V 9PB. Tel: 08701-211-251 Scottish Tourist Board - 17-19 Cockspur Street, London SW1.

Tel: 020-7930-8661 Irish Tourist Board - Ireland House, 150 New Bond Street, London W1. Tel: 020-7518-0800

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All about London Consulates and embassies New Zealand Office of the High Commissioner New Zealand House 80 Haymarket London SW1 4QT Tel: 020-7930-8422

Australia Office of the High Commissioner Australia House Strand London WC2 4LA Tel: 020-7379-4334

Canada Office of the High Commissioner 38 Grosvenor Street London W1K 4AA Tel: 020-7258 6600

United States Embassy Grosvenor Square London W1A 1AE Tel: 020-7499-9000

South Africa High Commission, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DP Tel: 020-7451-7299

Useful telephone numbers Airlines Air Canada Air New Zealand British Airways British Midlands Cathay Pacific Malaysian Airlines Qantas Saudi Arabian Airlines Singapore Airlines United Airlines Virgin Atlantic London transport information London Underground National Rail Enquiries National Express Coaches London area airports Heathrow Gatwick Stansted Luton London City

Confirmation Numbers 0871 220 1111 0800 028 4149 08708 509 850 08706 070 555 0208 834 8888 08706 079 090 08705 726 827 0207 798 9898 0844 800 2380 08458 444 777 0870 380 2007 0207 222 1234 08457 48 49 50 08705 808 080 0870 000 0123 0870 000 2468 0870 000 0303 0158 240 5100 0207 646 0088

Getting around If you are staying in London for more than a few days it is advisable to buy an ‘A-Z of London’ which gives detailed maps of all London’s streets, etc.

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All about London & special departures Getting around cont’d: Underground: By far the quickest and easiest way to get around the capital is by Underground (“The Tube”). There are over 250 stations, easily recognisable by an illuminated symbol. Underground trains run every few minutes between 5.30am and midnight every weekday and Saturday and between 7.00am and 11.30pm on Sundays. Single and/or return tickets are available from the ticket machines at stations.

You can also purchase an “Oyster” card – a pre-paid card that ensures the cheapest single fares on the Undergound or buses.

Travel Cards may be bought after 9.30am weekdays or at any time on weekends. These give you unlimited travel on buses and tubes for one day and save you money.

Buses: The red London buses operate in central London and generally run every 5-15 minutes apart from 05:30 to around midnight. After midnight the night buses become less regular but run all night to and from Trafalgar Square. These are marked with an N before the bus number. Buy your ticket from the machine at the bus stop in central London, or pay the driver.

Taxi cabs: Unique to London is the ‘cabbie’ and his traditional black cab. When taxis are free to pick up a fare, the words ‘Taxi’ or ‘For Hire’ are lit up in yellow on the top of the cab.

There is also a list of applicable charges which may be added to your fare. Taxi drivers are not obliged to accept a fare which may take them out of the six miles radius of Central London.

Taxi drivers do expect a tip of 10% of the fare, and when they have helped with luggage or taken a special fare out of the six mile radius a larger tip is expected.

DO NOT TAKE RIDES IN UNMARKED TAXIS!

Special departures Enjoy as much of Europe as you can and don’t miss out on anything! Contiki offer a great programme of European short breaks to complete your Contiki Time Out Europe experience.

Amsterdam for Easter: 4 days, 10-13 April 2009 The tour includes all transport, accommodation and breakfast daily. As Easter is tulip time in Holland, you’ll have the chance to visit the Keukenhof Spring Flower Park. You’ll see windmills, diamonds, clogs and cheese - so go Dutch this Easter!

Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Festival: 4 days, 28-31 August 2009 Set on the esplanade of the famous castle, there’s nothing in the world to match the thrilling pageantry of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo with time to shop in Scotland’s capital, this event is a must for your diary.

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Tour departure details Special departures cont’d: Munich Oktoberfest: 7 days, 17-23 September 2009 5 days, 24- 28 September 2008 or 29 September - 3 October 2009 The tour includes all transport and campsite accommodation, in 2-person pre-erected tents with air mattresses, breakfast daily, and our daily coach to the Oktoberfest grounds. You might also see the traditional Oktoberfest Brewers Parade.

Come and join us for an experience you will never forget!

Tour departures London Departures from: The Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way, London WC1 ODG Telephone: 020-7637-2488 Contiki’s Reception: 020-7637-0802 Fax: 020 7637 2121

Tour departure times: Great Britain: Report: 6.45am

Depart: 7.30am.

European Tours - Camping & Concept (Budget): Report: 6.00am Depart: 6.45am European Tours - Time Out (Superior): Report: 6.45am Depart: 7.30am Please ensure you allow enough time to reach the Royal National Hotel as all bags will be weighed before being loaded onto the coach. Be very wary of early Sunday departures as the underground does not start until 7.00am.

Clients staying at the Imperial Hotel must wait outside the hotel on Southampton Row at 6.30am to be collected and transferred to the Royal National Hotel.

Tour arrival times at the Royal National, London: Camping Tours Concept (Budget) Tours Time Out (Superior) Tours Great Britain

between 5.00pm and 8.00pm between 5.00pm and 8.00pm between 4.00pm and 7.00pm between 8.00pm and 10.00pm

Pre-departure meetings These take place in the Departure Lounge at the Royal National Hotel, the night prior to your tour departure.

Attendance is strongly recommended. Pre-departure meetings give you the chance to meet your fellow travellers and Tour Manager, receive any new information about your holiday and enjoy an informal ‘get-together’ before you leave.

Time Out (Superior Tours) - 6.00pm Concept (Budget) & Camping - 7.00pm

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Tour departure details & touring - the facts Time Out (Superior) Tours Regional Europe Departures: Please refer to your individual itinerary where you will find full details of your departure point.

If you miss the coach, tours starting in London Should you miss the coach, please contact the Contiki Representative immediately at ‘The Basement’ at the Royal National Hotel on 020-7637-0802. They will give you specific details on how to join your tour.

Tours starting in Athens, Cairo or Istanbul Please contact the Contiki Agents on the telephone numbers listed in your itinerary.

Tours starting in Madrid, Amsterdam, Berlin, Rome, Paris, Riga, Moscow, Vienna, Dublin & Edinburgh Should you miss the coach, your Tour Manager will leave details on how to join the tour with the hotel reception of the departure hotel.

The Contiki team Tour Managers: He or she has been thoroughly trained by Contiki throughout Europe, Gt. Britain, Russia and Scandinavia. The role of your Tour Manager is to ensure that you have the trip of a lifetime. They organise everything on tour, from accommodation and sightseeing to optional excursions. They also complete all the ‘behind the scenes’ work of pre-booking, border and customs procedures to make your tour hassle-free. In some circumstances, it may be necessary for your Tour Manager to make decisions on behalf of the group as a whole. In such cases, we ask for your cooperation, bearing in mind the variety of personalities and expectations on board the coach. We try to get the right balance of sightseeing and free time. Whatever you want from your holiday, your Tour Manager aims to provide it for you.

Drivers: With their experience you are in good hands. The Driver is responsible for the coach and we ask you to remember that they have to keep it clean for everyone’s comfort. Please adhere to the suggestions made to you at the beginning of your tour regarding waste paper, eating and drinking whilst on board the coach. The Driver and Tour Manager work as a team. You may often see them together planning your days, to offer you great variety and choice.

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Touring - the facts The Contiki team cont’d: Mobile Cooks (Camping Tours): Our friendly Mobile Cook travels with all camping tours to plan and organise the menus and the cooking. He or she is an experienced traveller, specially chosen and trained by Contiki.

Stopover & Village Staff (Concept/Budget Tours): In residence at every Special Stopover and Contiki Village, they’re the ‘Contiki locals’ who keep you up-to-date on all that’s happening in their village or city. They plan your menus, organise the food, shopping, produce great breakfasts and dinners and work behind the bar. At each nightstop the Contiki Special Stopover and Village staff work very closely with your Tour Manager to ensure your stay is a very special experience.

Accommodation - Time Out (Superior) tours Where You Stay: We have chosen a wide range of accommodation in order for you to best appreciate what Europe has to offer. From a magnificent 4-star resort in Vienna to the Chateau de Fontager near Lyon, our special Feature Hotels have been chosen for their particular character, charm, location and style. Hotels on other evenings are great too they’re tourist class and have excellent facilities.

Please bear in mind that the diversity and cultural differences seen almost every day in Europe can also be seen where you stay. While some clients prefer the older style hotels, others enjoy a more modern design and our accommodation list offers a good balance of each style to suit everyone’s tastes. It is always difficult not to compare European hotels with the similar category of hotel at home or on another continent where you have travelled.

Generally speaking, European hotels are of a slightly lower standard than their equivalent category in North America, Australasia or South Africa and they tend not to have the modern amenities such as air-conditioning, tea and coffeemaking facilities, etc.

Please Note: All contracts for your accommodation are negotiated by Contiki many months in advance. There may be times when hotels will provide alternative accommodation to that advertised in the brochure. Such situations are beyond Contiki’s control and we will do our utmost to minimise any inconvenience.

Your Room: Rooms are booked on a triple-share, twin-share or single basis with private facilities consisting of either a bath or shower. It is worth pointing out that room sizes in European hotels are often much smaller than in non-European countries.

Twin-bedded or double rooms: If you prefer a double bed, please speak to your Tour Manager. However, these cannot be guaranteed.

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Touring - the facts Accommodation - Time Out (Superior) tours cont’d: Triple rooms: Rooms with three beds are normally slightly larger.

Single rooms: They are often small, but give the privacy of single occupancy.

Reception: Most hotels have English-speaking staff at Reception. Any needs you have should be directed through them, for example if the towels need changing or a light requires fixing. Generally, you will find the staff helpful and friendly, especially in the more traditional older style hotels. However, staff tend to be as pleasant with you as you are with them.

Hotel Notice Board: Your Tour Manager will place an information sheet or ‘Day Sheet’ at each hotel confirming details of the programme. Please check the notice board regularly.

Porterage: We find that young people on holiday can easily carry their own reasonably-sized suitcases which means there is no endless waiting, in your room, for the porters to arrive with the luggage. Porterage is not included in hotels.

Telephones: Most hotels have direct-dial facilities, and should you telephone home, we ask you to settle your bill the night before departure at reception. Remember that hotel phone bills can be very expensive so we recommend you use your Contiki Global phonecard to make your phone calls home using the toll-free access numbers, which will be cheaper. Check with your Tour Manager to find out if the hotel allows 0800 numbers to be dialled. Remember - even if the hotel does not allow access to 0800 numbers, you can still dial one of the local rate numbers listed at www.contiki.ekit.com. Alternatively, most cities have international telephone exchanges, which your Tour Manager will gladly point out for you.

Laundry: Laundry facilities are available at some hotels.

However, the service normally takes one full day and is not normally available during weekends. It is, therefore, only possible to arrange laundry on two-night stops.

Please note it can be expensive and in some cities your Tour Manager may be able to suggest alternatives.

Security: We strongly recommend you use the hotel security boxes where available. Please remember that you will need to keep your passport with you if you intend to cash travellers cheques during the day. And don’t forget to collect all items from your security box before you leave the hotel!

Remember to keep your valuables and passport with you at all times.

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Touring - the facts Accommodation - Time Out (Superior) tours cont’d: Room Service: The majority of hotels that we use do not provide room service.

Check-in and Departure: Check-in varies from hotel to hotel and your Tour Manager will advise you of the procedure at each hotel. Hotel departures are very straightforward but once again please follow your Tour Manager’s lead and always remember to: Check your room carefully before you leave, return your key to reception and pay all your incidental charges.

Meals: Breakfast is always continental style; rolls, butter, jams, tea or coffee. Sometimes in northern European countries an egg or possibly some cheese is added. This will certainly seem different to home and somewhat repetitive if you are used to a cooked breakfast. However, this is normal in Europe, especially in the more southern, hotter countries. Generally, dinner is a three-course meal with the main dish of meat or fish. Should you have any special diet requests, e.g. vegetarian, your Tour Manager will try to organise an alternative menu. Water is included with all dinners, depending on the hotel you may be able to purchase drinks. A reasonable standard of dress is expected at all restaurants and we therefore request that no sports shorts or singlets be worn at evening meals.

Special Stopovers: On our Concept/Budget tours you’ll be able to experience Special Stopovers where you stay in specially selected places - many of them historic, listed buildings (with plumbing to match!) - that will give you a real flavour of the country and are run exclusively by Contiki for Contiki clients.

Russia and Scandinavia Tours: Travelling through Russia and Scandinavia provides a completely different experience from travelling through Western Europe. Accommodation in Russia and Scandinavia is tourist class and varies from city to city.

Both Russia and Scandinavia can be expensive to travel in.

You should carry a reasonable amount of cash when entering Russia – approximately g600 in small notes should be sufficient. This is to pay for souvenirs, optional excursionas and entrance fees. US Dollars in small denominations can also be useful when shopping in Russia.

Access to money via cash-machines is relatively easy in Scandinavia. Scandinavian countries are VERY expensive – a beer may cost up to £7 in a bar.

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Touring - the facts Accommodation Concept (Budget) tours Please note: A sleeping bag is required for these tours.

Contiki Villages: Throughout Europe we have set up Contiki Villages where your accommodation is in comfortable cabins.

Each are set up near the Contiki kitchen, creating our own Contiki Village within the well located campsite.

Most campsites have good facilities including hot water showers, bars, shops and restaurants. Some have discos and swimming pools. In some campsites it is necessary to pay for hot showers.

Tokens are normally available from the campsite office.

In all Contiki Villages and Special Stopovers there are notice boards with up-to-date local information and details of your tour.

Helping Out: Your Tour Manager will organise a roster system so that everybody has a fair share of the chores - you all take it in turns, in small groups, to cook and wash up. The duties aren’t heavy and don’t take up too much of your free time and it’s also a great way to get to know your fellow travellers better. Everyone is expected to ‘pull their weight’ so please assist your Tour Manager and fellow travellers by being on time for your duties.

Accommodation - Camping tours On our coaches we carry modern custom-built 2-person tents which you put up and take down at each campsite. All campsites have showers, washing facilities, usually with hot water, bars and shops. Many have other facilities like restaurants, washing machines and swimming pools.

NB: In some places, you will need to buy tokens for showers. Air mattresses are supplied. You must bring your own sleeping bag.

Meals: Each coach carries a fast-assembly cook unit on board and the meals are planned by the Mobile Cook and prepared by you and your team.

Your Share: One of the ways we keep the costs down is involving everyone in their tour. Your Tour Manager and Mobile Cook will organise everybody to help with food shopping, meal preparation, cooking and washing up.

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General information Transport Your Coach: Throughout Europe we use a fleet of modern, airconditioned European and British coaches, the ultimate in comfort, safety and reliability with contoured seats, panoramic tinted windows and built-in stereo sound system.

For the duration of your tour the coach is like a home. Care should be taken to maintain its cleanliness. We do not regiment our clients and no system for seat rotation is arranged. However, out of consideration to others, window seats should not be monopolised. This also permits everybody to mix rather than stay in isolated groups. To make the most of your days we sometimes make an early start.

There are times when your driver has the day or evening off due to laws established by the European Union (EU). There will be a few occasions, therefore, when transportation will be at your own expense.

A number of our coaches are fitted with toilets. Please be aware that due to the very limited disposal facilities in Europe, these are for emergency use only. Frequent comfort stops are provided.

Smoking: Smoking is not permitted on the coach, but frequent stops are made when travelling.

Music: All our coaches are fitted with CD players. However, our supply of CDs is not inexhaustible and passengers are invited to bring along their favourites.

Budgeting How much money should I bring?: This is a difficult subject to give advice on because the amount varies from person to person and a lot depends on how much you spend on shopping (there’s plenty to tempt you in Europe!), entertainment, drinks, optional excursions and entry fees to museums, etc.

If possible, bring more money than you intend to spend – then if you see something you really can’t resist you won’t be disappointed - don’t forget your credit card.

On the following pages, we’ve tried to give you some idea of the expenses you’re likely to incur.

Entrance fees/free time: In every city you visit there will be a good mix of organised sightseeing plus time to explore the city on your own. Everyone has a different idea of what they want to see and do in their free time - visiting museums and galleries, shopping, coffee in an outdoor café or just walking the streets to feel the atmosphere of the city.

In our experience we have found that you should budget approximately £40/g50 per day for incidental expenses. This does not include major shopping items.

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General information Budgeting cont’d: Your meals: Your tour cost includes breakfast and dinner most days, as specified on your itinerary. When dinner is not included, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the local cuisine and be free to do your own thing or choose one of the optional meals organised by your Tour Manager. Lunch is not included except where specified on our itinerary, as most people have their own idea of how much and what they eat in the middle of the day. As a general guide, allow approximately £7/g10 per day for lunches.

Optional activities: A Contiki holiday is all about exciting ‘once in a lifetime’ experiences. Your holiday cost includes many visits and meals as listed in the brochure for your specific tour. In addition, as everyone has their own idea of how they want to spend their free time, we also have a range of optional visits, activities and local meals available throughout your tour. We call them ‘optional’ because it is entirely up to you whether you join in or not - there is no pressure on you to do so.

The style of eating varies from country to country and part of the fun of travelling abroad is to be able to sample a whole range of culinary specialities.

Visit contiki.com and look up your tour for the most up to date listing of Optional Activities.

Hotel Frini - Perama - Corfu Tel: 40510

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General information Budgeting cont’d: From experience, we have not planned meals in restaurants in some cities as we feel it is better for you to explore and find your own venue by yourself or with a few friends. Yet, in other places, and particularly in peak season, it can be difficult to find a good meal at a fair price and we have organised to eat as a group and sample the local cuisine at a reasonable cost.

Our Optional Meals give you the chance to get the most from your trip with plenty of opportunities to see typical shows and sample the local food.

All excursions can be booked through your Tour Manager and to help you plan your budget, our list of Optional Excursions and Meals available is shown in your tour itinerary sent to you with your travel documents and on www.contiki.com. For any optional trips that you choose, your Tour Manager will make firm bookings in advance and you will be liable for the cost of all excursions you have booked, a minimum of 48hrs cancellation notice is required - please allow approximately £10/g15 per day for Optional Excursions and £20-£25/g30-g40 per Optional Meal.

These optionals are available via third party suppliers. Contiki does not own nor operate any of these excursions but rather has used its buying power to negotiate favourable rates on your behalf with local suppliers and excursion operators.

NB: Credit cards cannot be accepted as a form of payment for most Optional Excursions/Meals.

Summary of approximate costs Here’s a summary of the various expenses you’re likely to incur during your tour.

Expenses Lunches Optional Meals Ferry Crossings Optional Excursions Incidental Expenses

Approximate Costs £7/g10 per meal £25/g40 per meal £7/g10 per meal £10/g15 per day £30/g45 per day

Shopping Certain cities and countries in Europe are well known for their local crafts, e.g. leatherware from Florence, cuckoo-clocks and watches from Switzerland, clogs from Holland, glass from Venice; the list and variety is endless.

As part of your tour, you will be given the opportunity to see demonstrations of local craftsmen at work. Contiki selects a factory or shop for their standard of demonstration and the quality of service and product guarantee. We feel they offer good value for money and are highly responsible and established traders.

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General information Shopping cont’d: However, we stress that you are under no obligation to purchase anything. You may find another shop with cheaper products, others may be more expensive. Ultimately, it is your choice.

Some shops may provide a mail service, but please be aware that it can take up to six months and sometimes longer for the goods to arrive home and, on arrival, perhaps be liable to customs and excise duty. We strongly recommend you obtain a copy of customs regulations before you leave home as they vary in almost every country.

Photography Taking photos is a great way of remembering your trip to Europe. Your Tour Manager will endeavour to allow as much time as practical to take photographs, however there may be occasions when it is not possible or practical to stop the coach. If travelling with a digital camera you should try to carry memory cards with enough storage for at least seven days at a time. There are numerous internet cafes/photo shops in Europe where you can transfer your digital photos to a CD but doing it every couple of days will reduce the free time you have in cities and it can be quite expensive.

Health & hygiene Life on a Contiki tour can get quite hectic with early mornings and late nights which makes it easy for you to catch a common cold, the flu or aggravate an existing medical condition. Also, different air, water, food and lifestyle can reduce your resistance, so we suggest you take a multivitamin course whilst on tour.

Water in some areas is undrinkable, so please take care - your Tour Manager will advise you. Bottled water is cheap and easily found throughout Europe.

If at any time you feel unwell, your Tour Manager will assist you in contacting a doctor for consultation. Please remember the quality of medical services varies considerably from country to country in Europe and that medications available over the counter at home may only be obtainable on prescription in Europe.

If you are on a regular course of medicine/contraception you must bring a supply sufficient for the whole time you are away from home. We also suggest you bring a small supply of antiseptic cream, Band Aids, Aspirin, insect repellent, cough mixture and perhaps a supply of antibiotics. These are not carried on the coach and are the client’s responsibility.

All Contiki coaches carry a sealed comprehensive First Aid Kit for use in a coach emergency only.

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General information Lost property Contiki cannot accept responsibility for property left by clients in hotels, coaches, restaurants, etc. We will, however, do our best to recover anything you might have forgotten. Please advise your Tour Manager as soon as possible. Contiki also recommend that you enter your important document information into your Contiki ekit Travel Vault. This ultra-secure facility allows you to keep a record of all your important information, eg: passport and visa details, credit card and travellers cheques numbers and loads more, plus you’ll have access to this 24-hours a day.

Local customs While touring Europe you are a guest in each country you visit and traditions and customs vary greatly from country to country. Your Tour Manager will inform you of local customs as you enter each country but here are a few examples: In Italy you are not allowed to enter a church unless your upper arms and legs (for both men and women) are covered. This means that shorts, mini-skirts and sleeveless tops are not allowed.

It is customary in most countries and compulsory in others to pay a token amount or tip the attendant for the use of public lavatories in railway stations, motorway rest-stops, etc.

Generally, if the local people see you respecting their customs they are complimented and you are likely to be well received by them. Remember, as an adult you will be held liable for your actions according to the individual laws of each country.

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General information Local customs cont’d: Meeting the people of the countries you visit will enhance your enjoyment and increase the value of the memories you take back with you. Always remember, ‘When in Rome...’

Tipping This is an accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars, and taxis in Europe. Likewise on your Contiki tour, if you feel that your Tour Manager, Driver and mobile cook have done an excellent job, then as a guide we would recommend tipping each of them up to the equivalent of g2 per passenger per day. However, this is not compulsory. It's up to you!

Egypt, Greece and Turkey Tours: As we use local guides, drivers and boat crew on these tours, we would ask you to consider tipping (per person) the following amounts (or local equivalent), subject to the service provided being of a sufficiently high standard: Local Tour Guide Local Driver Train staff Hotel staff/barman Boat Crew

US$3 per day US$3 per day US$2 per journey US$1 US$3 per day (Egypt total crew)

Value added tax On larger purchases, VAT can be reclaimed by completing the necessary forms and showing your purchases as you leave the country. VAT paid in European Union (EU) countries can only be reclaimed upon your final departure from the EU. Please speak to your Tour Manager for further details.

Calling home Generally speaking, the Western European countries have an efficient system, the operators speak a reasonable level of English and telephone booths and offices are easily found.

Your Contiki Global Phonecard will save you up to 70% off hotel and payphones for international and long distance calling - which means more money for souvenirs and big nights out.

To make a call dial the Access Number from the country you are in, enter your Account Number and press #, your PIN and press # and then 2. You then dial the country code, area code (without the 0), and the phone number.

All access numbers are listed on your card, or ask Customer Service; or refer to the individual destination pages of this guidebook.

Check your travel documents for your Contiki Global phonecard or go to contiki.ekit.com.

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General information Calling home cont’d: Sometimes the ekit Access Number may change, to provide you with better call rates. If you hear a recorded message, Stay On The Line To Complete Your Call or use the new number given. Always go to www.contiki.ekit.com for the latest access numbers.

International country codes Australia 61 Canada 1 Great Britain 44 USA 1 New Zealand 64 South Africa 27 Japan 81 Indonesia 6 Singapore 65 Malaysia 60 Israel 972 Brazil 55 Mexico 52 Your Tour Manager will gladly recommend the most efficient and convenient places to call home.

Email The fastest way of communicating with your family and friends. Internet cafés are plentiful in Europe and your Tour Manager will be able to point you in the right direction starting off with the Internet café at Contiki’s London Basement.

Winter departures On winter departures, please bear in mind the inconsistency of European weather and the shorter daylight hours. For these reasons it may be necessary to make earlier starts and it may not be possible to offer all our Optional Excursions.

Also the winter months can be used by some public works departments to decorate, renovate or renew exhibitions and therefore some public buildings could be closed. You will, however, have the advantage of much less crowded museums, buildings and restaurants etc.

Weekends & public holidays It is unavoidable to have a touring programme that is not in certain cities on weekends, public holidays or days of closure for public buildings, shops and museums. We regret you may miss certain opportunities but these are kept to a minimum.

Clothing sizes Sizes vary from country to country around the world. No doubt while in Europe you will want to buy clothes, so as a guide we have listed the approximate comparative sizes. However, we do recommend before making the purchase, you make sure you are happy that the size of the article you are purchasing is correct.

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General information Clothing sizes cont’d: Men Suits and Coats American/English 36 38 40 42 44 46 Continental 46 48 50 52 54 56 Shirts 1 3 1 16 16 ⁄ 2 American - English 15 15 ⁄ 2 15 ⁄ 4 Continental 38 39 40 41 42 Sweaters S M L American/English 34 36-38 40-42 Continental 44 46-48 50-52 Shoes 1 1 1 8 8 ⁄2 9 ⁄2 10 American 7 ⁄2 Continental 40 41 42 43 44 Women Dresses, Coats and Suits American 32 34 36 38 English 10 12 14 16 Continental 38 40 42 44 Blouses and Sweaters American 32 34 36 38 40 42 English 34 36 38 40 42 44 Continental 40 42 44 46 48 50 Shoes 1 1 1 1 9 American 5 5 ⁄2 6 ⁄2 7 ⁄2 8 ⁄2 1 1 English 3 ⁄2 4 5 6 7 7 ⁄2 Continental 36 37 38 39 40 41 Children’s Wear American 1 4 6 8 10 13 English 1 2 5 7 9 10 Continental 1 2 5 7 9 10

48 58 17 43 XL 44 54 11 45 40 18 46 44 46 52 1

9 ⁄2 8 42 15 12 12

Temperature chart Below you will find the average temperatures of 11 major cities in the early afternoon. Use this information to help you choose the type of clothes to bring with you on your Contiki tour. All temperatures are shown in centigrade.

Amsterdam Athens Barcelona Cairo Edinburgh London Lucerne Paris Rome Stockholm Vienna

J 4 12 13 24 6 6 0 6 12 -1 1

F 5 13 14 26 6 7 3 7 13 -1 3

M 8 16 16 28 8 9 7 11 17 3 8

A 11 19 18 31 10 13 12 16 20 7 14

M 16 25 22 33 13 17 16 19 23 14 19

J 18 29 25 34 17 20 20 23 28 18 22

J 21 32 27 35 18 22 22 24 31 21 24

A 20 32 28 35 18 21 21 24 31 19 23

S 18 28 26 33 16 18 17 21 28 14 19

O 13 23 22 31 12 13 11 15 23 9 13

N 8 18 17 29 8 9 6 9 17 3 7

D 5 14 14 25 7 7 2 6 13 1 3

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General information CALENDAR 2009 January

February

March

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22

2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

T

W

T

F

S

T

W

T

F

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

April S 5 12 19 26

M 6 13 20 27

May

July

S 31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

T

W

T

F

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

S

W

T

F

S

S

M

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

October

4 11 18 25

M 5 12 19 26

5 12 19 26

S

August

M

T 6 13 20 27

S

M

T

W

T

F

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

S

M

T

W

T

F

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

June

M

S

S

S

S

S

September

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

30 2 9 16 23

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

T

W

T

F

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

November

S

M

T

W

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S

December S

S

M

T

W

T

F

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

M

T

W

T

F

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

6 13 20 27

S

CALENDAR 2010 January S 31 3 10 17 24

M 4 11 18 25

T

February W

T

F

S

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

April

S

March

M

T

W

T

F

S

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28

2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

May

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 3 9 10 16 17 23 24 30

July

M

T

W

T

F

S

30 2 9 16 23

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

August T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

31 3 10 17 24

M 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

S

November

6 13 20 27

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S

September

M

S

S

June

S

S

October

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

S

T

W

T

F

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

December

M

T

W

T

F

S

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

S 5 12 19 26

M 6 13 20 27

S

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General information Currency conversion table To assist you when converting the excursion costs into your own currency, the table below gives details of approximate exchange rates (as of 25th November 2008). As exchange rates vary, this information should be used as a guide only: USD

CAD

AUD

NZD

RAND

GBP

GBP

0.65

0.53

0.42

0.36

0.07

1.00

SFR

1.19

0.97

0.77

0.65

0.12

1.82

SKR

7.90

6.44

5.10

4.29

0.80

12.08

EGY P

5.53

4.51

3.57

3.00

0.56

8.45

ZLOTY

2.92

2.38

1.89

1.59

0.30

4.47

ROUBLE

27.31

22.28

17.64

14.85

2.78

41.78

T LIRE

1.57

1.28

1.01

0.85

0.16

2.40

NKR

6.96

5.68

4.50

3.78

0.71

10.65

DKR

5.74

4.68

3.71

3.12

0.58

8.78

BULGARIAN LEV

2.31

1.89

1.49

1.26

0.24

3.54

EURO

0.77

0.63

0.50

0.42

0.08

1.18

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General information Useful words ‘When in Rome...’ language is no barrier to foreign travel, but it helps to know a few of the more common phrases. It’s fun to try and the fact that you have made the effort is appreciated by the people of the country.

English

French

German

Spanish

Italian

Greek

Bonjour

Guten Morgen

Buenos dias

Buongiorno

Kalimera

Goodbye

Au revoir

Auf Wiedersehen

Adios

Arrivederci

Yasou

Please

S’il vous plait

Bitte

Por favor

Perfavore

Parakalo

Thank you

Merci

Danke Schon

Gracias

Grazie

Effaristo

Yes

Oui

Ja

Si

Si

Ne

No

Non

Nein

No

No

Oki

Good morning

Where is?

Où est?

Wo ist?

Dónde ésta?

Dové

Poo eeneh?

The toilet

les toilettes

die toilette

el lavabo

il gabinetto

To oahlehtes

Banca

Trapeza

The bank

la banque

Die Bank

Banco

Post Office

la Poste

Die Post

Correos

How much?

Combien?

Wieviel?

Cuanto?

Quanto?

Posso?

The bill

l’addition

Die Rechnung

La cuenta

Il Conto

To loghariazmo

Ladies

Dames

Damen

Enoras

Donne

Yinekon

Gents

Messieurs

Herren

Senores

Uomini

Anthron

Stamp

Timbre

Briefmarke

Sello

One/Two

Un/Deux

Eins/Zwei

Uno/Due

Uno/Due

Ena/Thio

Three/Four

Trois/Quatre

Drei/Vier

Tres/Cuatro

Tre/Quattro

Tria/Tesera Pende/Eksi

Ufficio Postale Takedromeo

Francobollo Grammatesimo

Five/Six

Cinq/Six

Funf/Sechs

Cinco/Seis

Cinque/Sei

Seven/Eight

Sept/Huit

Sieben/Acht

Siete/Ocho

Sette/Otto

Epta/Okta

Nine/Ten

Neuf/Dix

Neun/Zehn

Nueve/Diez

Nove/Dieci

Enea/Theka

Open

Ouvert

Geoffnet

Abierto

Aperto

Anikton

Closed

Fermé

Geschlossen

Cerrado

Chiuso

Klison

Hot

Chaud

Heiss

Caliente

Caldo

Zesto

Cold

Froid

Kalt

Frio

Freddo

Krio

Water

Eau

Wasser

Agua

Acqua

Nero

Tea

Thé

Tee

Té

Té

Chai

Coffee

Café

Kaffee

Café

Caffé

Kafe

Beer

Bière

Bier

Cerveza

Birra

Bira

Wine

Vin

Wein

Vino

Vino

Krasi

Perdón

Scusi

Sygnomi

Excuse me (Sorry)

Excusez-moi Entschuldigung sie

Mailing addresses Contact addresses during your tour are listed in your itinerary.

Please remember that mail can be very slow in parts of Europe. Airmail letters should be posted at least 15 days before arrival date of the tour and addressed as follows: ‘To await arrival’, Client’s Name, Contiki Tour Name and Departure Date, c/o Address as shown.

We do not recommend sending mail to countries outside central Europe as the mail service is very unreliable.

Via Cassia No 1 - 50124 Galluzzo (Firenze) Tel: (055) 2048876 Fax: 2047109 e-mail: ristcert@tin.it

MUSICAL EVENINGS AND FLORENTINE FOLKLORE The true tradition of the most genuine Tuscan cooking SPIT - GRILL - GAME - BUFFET

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General information Contiki-approved European shops & factories Name of Company

Main Products

Fragonard

French Perfume

City

Leonardo’s Leather Works

Italian Leather Fashion Ware & Handbags

Florence

Walter’s Silver & Gold

Silver & Gold Jewellery

Florence

Galleria San Marco

Venetian Glass Tableware & Ornaments

Venice

Paris/Grasse/Eze

Il Merletto

Venetian Lace

Venice

Swarovski Crystal Museum

Austrian Crystal

Innsbruck

Harry’s Swiss Watch Center

Swiss Watches & Cuckoo Clocks (German & Swiss)

Lucerne

Beer Steins, German Montag’s Souvenirs Beer Steins, CuckooClocks, Birkenstock Shoes Irene Hoeve

Dutch Clogs, Cheese

St Goar Amsterdam

NB: At certain times of the year, i.e. Bank Holidays, it may not always be possible to visit some of the shops and factories listed above. Your Tour Manager will keep you informed.

The travellers 10 commandments 1. Thou shalt not to expect to find things as they are at home for thou hast left home to find things different.

2. Thou shalt not take things too seriously, for a carefree mind is the beginning of a carefree holiday.

3. Thou shalt not let other tourists get on thy nerves as we are all here for the same reason and thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself.

4. Thou must know at all times where thy passport lies, for a person without a passport is a person without a country.

5. Thou shalt not worry, for he that worrieth hath no pleasure. Few things are fatal.

6. Remember that thou art a guest in other lands and he that treateth his host with respect shall in turn be respected. To learn to speaketh ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ in thy host’s tongue will make thee thy hosts friend.

7. Thou shalt not judge the entire people of a country by one person who was a poor host.

8. Thou shalt remember to err is human and to forgive is divine.

9. When in Rome, thou shalt be prepared to do as the Romans do.

10. Thou shouldst remember that if thou was expected to stay in one place, thou would have been created with roots.

Anon

SEA PALACE If you haven't been to sea palace, you haven't been to Amsterdam

Oosterdokskade 8, 1011 AE Amsterdam • Tel 020 - 6264777 • Fax: 020 - 6204266 • Web: www.seapalace.nl

Old Vienna Schnaps museum Near Schönbrunn Castle

4 genera ti under o ons ne roof!

Since 1875 the Fischer-Family has been producing Schnaps and Liquer including their famous “Schönbrunner-Goldlikör” containing 23 carat gold leaf. Since that time nothing has changed... not the interior of the house, nor the method of production. Come and see the Fischer-Family, experience a warm welcome and enjoy a sampling of their products.

An attractive and rewarding short stop.

Internet: www.schnapsmuseum.com e-mail: office@schnapsmuseum.com

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Europe uncovered Finland FINLAND Gulf of Bothnia

Norway NORWAY ESTONIA Estonia Russia RUSSIA

SWEDEN Sweden Scotland SCOTLAND

Latvia LATVIA Denmark DENMARK

Baltic Sea

Lithuania LITHUANIA N.Ireland N.IRELAND S.IRELAND S.Ireland

North Sea

Irish Sea

Belarus BELARUS

NETHERLANDS WALES Wales

ENGLAND England

POLAND Poland

Netherlands Germany GERMANY

Belgium BELGIUM English Channel

Ukraine UKRAINE

Czech Rep CZECH REP Slovakia SLOVAKIA

FRANCE France

AUSTRIA Austria SWITZ Switz

Hungary HUNGARY SLOVENIA Slovenia Croatia CROATIA

Atlantic Ocean

Italy

Romania ROMANIA

Bosnia BOSNIA ITALY

Portugal PORTUGAL

Serbia SERBIA Adriatic Sea

MONTENEGRO Montenegro

BULGARIA Bulgaria Black Sea

MACEDONIA Macedonia

Mediterranean Sea

SPAIN

Albania ALBANIA GREECE Greece

Spain

Turkey TURKEY

Ionian Sea Costa Blanca Costa del Sol

Cyprus CYPRUS

ISRAEL

Egypt EGYPT

The following pages aim to give you a taste of the countries visited by Contiki. We hope you will find this section interesting and useful, though of course it only skims the surface of what each particular country has to offer - as you’ll soon find out!

ALBANIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Tirana Leke 3,563,112 28,748 sq km (11, 100 sq. miles) Language: Albanian (official - derived from Tosk dialect), however other languages include Greek, Vlach, Romani and Slavic dialects. The inhabitants are predominantly Albanian however other nationalities such as Greek, Vlach, Roma (Gypsy), Serb, Macedonian and Bulgarian are represented. The main religion is Muslim, followed by Albanian Orthodox and a small population of Roman Catholics.

Albania enjoys a mild and temperate climate; cool, cloudy, wet winters and hot, clear, dry summers. Further inland is cooler and wetter than the coast.

GMT +1hr

Geography: Albania lies on the Adriatic & Ionian Seas, between Greece, Macedonia and Serbia and Montenegro. The terrain is mostly mountainous with small plains along coast.

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Europe uncovered ALBANIA cont’d: Things of Note: • Mother Theresa was born in Albania in 1910.

• Shakespeare’s play Twelfth Night is set in Illyria, the name by which Albania was previously known.

• The telephone system in Albania is not known for being very reliable and there are fewer than two telephones per 100 inhabitants, some villages don’t even have telephone access.

• Following the fall of the Communist government in 1992, locals in some villages cut the telephone lines between towns and used it to built fences. ekit access number: There is currently no access number for Albania, ekit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit www.contiki.ekit.com.

AUSTRIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Vienna Euro 8,175,000 83,850 sq. km (32,375 sq. miles) Language: German is the first language but most educated Austrians speak English, French and Italian to varying degrees.

Ethnological Mix: in Tyrol areas people are almost pure German stock; in the Danube Valley, however, they are a mixture of Germanic, Slav & Magyar.

Climate: Warm pleasant summers with cool nights, sunny winters with snow levels high enough for widespread winter sports.

Time Difference: GMT + 1 hr.

Geography: Austria is a small country enclosed in the heart of Europe, at some points only 40km (24 miles) across and only 560km (335 miles) long. Nevertheless Austria offers more variety than almost any other country in Europe - moody plains with rocky outcroppings are crowned by castles and dense green forests reminding one of medieval legends and fairy tales. The beautiful Danube flows for miles through the country, acres of vineyards cover the land and of course there are the Alps some of the most breathtaking and dramatic peaks in the world.

Places of interest in Vienna City of Music: See statues of famous composers such as Strauss and Mozart in the Stadtspark and the Hofburg Gardens. See inside the historic Opera House, rebuilt since bombing in WWII

6112 WATTENS / TIROL · AUSTRIA OPEN DAILY FROM 9 AM − 6.30 PM LAST ENTRY 5.30 PM CLOSED JANUARY 1st, 2nd AND 3rd WEEK OF NOVEMBER TELEPHONE +43 (0)5224 51080 www.swarovski.com/kristallwelten

THE ART OF CRYSTAL FICTION

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Europe uncovered AUSTRIA cont’d: Horse and Buggy tour: Go on a horse and buggy ride around the city centre. It is the best place in Europe to take advantage of this mode of transport with liveried drivers, shining coaches and immaculate gleaming horses.

Vienna Coffee: Try an array of coffee blends available and perhaps splurge on a traditional Austrian apple strudel or a slice of the Viennese cake; Sacher Torte Kartnerstrasse: Shop for high quality items in the city’s major pedestrian shopping street. Mozart ball chocolates are a must!

Hofburg Palace: Explore the former apartments of the Hapsburg family in their Winter Palace; stately in design and opulent in decoration.

Shatzkammer (Palace Treasury): Visit the home of the crown jewels of the Hapsburg Dynasty, and see royal robes and artifacts formerly belonging to the Royal Family. Closed Tuesdays.

Manners and customs Austrians tend to be fairly formal in both their social and business dealings. One should shake hands when greeting or saying goodbye. It is considered impolite to leave a restaurant or shop without saying ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ - Goodbye. Food specialities include Wiener Schnitzel and Knodel (dumplings).

Tipping is not high, but widespread. On restaurant bills, 1015% is added and it is usual to leave only the small change.

Best buys Local handicrafts, Dirndls, embroidered blouses and lederhosen (leather pants), woodcarvings, dried flower pictures, Viennese petit point, winter sports equipment, crystal glassware and schnapps. ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 677 664. ekit economy number: Vienna economy 01-253-084-0529. ekit hints on calling in Austria: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• International Toll Free numbers may be charged for the price of a local call when using coin-operated payphones.

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Europe uncovered BELGIUM Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Brussels Euro 10,348,276 30,518 sq km (11 783 sq. miles) Language: French & Flemish; there is an official “linguistic divide�, with Flemish spoken in the north and French in the south. Both languages are spoken in Brussels (English is also spoken by many, as is German).

Fairly cool summers, April to September are the warmest months. Winter is wet and cold, although rain can be expected all year round.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography Belgium is fairly flat, especially in the north along the border with the Netherlands. The south of the country is dominated by the Ardennes, a forested and hilly area that is near the borders with France and Germany. There are valleys around the south whilst the coast in the north is bordered by the North Sea. The southwest is dotted with a network of canals, along which many people take boating holidays in the summer.

Places of interest in Brussels Grand Place: Gaze at the impressive Gothic and Baroque town square in the centre of Brussels that dates to the 15th Century.

The buildings around the outside were home to the various Guilds of the city that dominated trade during that time.

The Mannekin Pis: Giggle at this statue of a little boy that become a symbol of Brussels. There are endless stories as to its origin. Some say he was the lost son of a nobleman, others that he extinguished a local fire or even annoyed a witch.

Whatever the story, the present-day bronze statue is sure to amuse you.

Chocolate Museum: Be tempted to sample some of the world’s finest chocolates after a visit to this interesting and persuasive museum that documents the history of chocolate and how it came to be part of the Belgian culture.

Manners and customs Belgians are a friendly and oft-forgotten people as the country is surrounded by the larger and more well-known neighbours of The Netherlands, France and Germany. These borders, however, have resulted in a great combination of the best food from each region and Belgian cuisine is a delight to sample; Moules avec frites (Mussels and fries), chocolate and waffles are just a start. Beer is to the Belgians what wine is to the French and there are almost 400 different types of Belgian beer, each with its own glass and unique flavour.

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Europe uncovered BELGIUM cont’d: Best buys Chocolate, lace, Tin Tin comics and anything to do with beer. ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 49943 ekit economy number: Brussels economy 02-792-5116 ekit Nationwide economy number: 078 160 170 • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• Nationwide economy numbers offer good rates nationwide but may require a coin deposit.

BULGARIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Sophia Leve 7,846,000 111,365 sq.km (43,000 sq. miles) Language: Bulgarian is the first language followed by English. Other languages spoken are Russian, German and French.

Ethnological Mix: majority are Bulgarian but 1.2 million people belong to ethnic minorities - Turks, Jews, Armenians and Romanians.

Climate: Varies considerably with altitude.

Summers hot and dry. Winters cold with heavy snow. Rain frequent in Spring and Autumn.

Time difference: GMT + 1 hr Geography Bulgaria has a wide variety of scenery, climate, flora and fauna - you’ll find rare flowers and trees over a thousand years old. It has mountains which look like the Alps - the Balkans, running East to West through the centre of the country and a coastline which compares well with the French and Italian Rivieras.

Bulgaria also has lakes and valleys, with the River Danube forming the northern frontier between Romania and Bulgaria and the Black Sea is the eastern frontier.

Manners and customs Tipping is officially discouraged although a 10% tip is usually well received. A nod of the head means ‘no’, a shake - yes.

Dress is informal and evening dress is rare. ekit access number: There is currently no access number for Bulgaria, ekit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit contiki.ekit.com.

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Europe Uncovered CROATIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Zagreb Kuna 4,495,904 56,542 sq km (21, 830 sq. miles) Language: The first language is Croatian, however other languages encountered include Serbian, Hungarian, Czech and Slovak. Some Croatians also speak Italian and German. 88% of the population are Roman Catholic. Other religions such as Eastern Orthodox and Islam are also represented.

The climate varies with the location: Mediterranean on the coast and continental further inland. The continental climate is predominant with hot summers and cold winters; however it is milder along the coastline.

GMT +1hr

Geography Croatia is geographically diverse; there are flat plains along the Hungarian border and low mountains and highlands near the Adriatic coastline and islands. The picturesque beaches and largely unspoilt coastline along the Adriatic Sea draws many visitors to the country. Croatia shares borders with Bosnia Herzegovina, Hungary, Serbia, Montenegro, and Slovenia.

Places of interest in Dubrovnik Stroll: along the cobblestone streets and marble-paved squares of the old town area Stari Grad.

Wander: past the tall houses, churches and palaces of this beautiful city.

Marvel: at the old city walls built between the 13th & 16th centuries.

Cruise: along the stunning coastline of this Adriatic haven.

Places of interest in Zadar City Walls: Was once the largest city-fortress in the Republic of Venice. Zadar's walls allowed the city to keep it’s independence and help protect them from many invaders including the Turks.

Today the top of these city walls offer great views over the habour.

Five Wells Square: The Venetians helped the city against the Turkish sieges by building a large drinking water cistern with five ornamental wellheads during the 16th century. After the Turkish threat ended, a park was built on top of the nearby bastion.

City Forum: Founded by Emperor Augustus in the 3rd Century.

It is the largest Roman Forum on this side of the Adriatic. The Forum was made up of a basilica and rooms for council chambers and citizens' assemblies, it was discovered in the 1930s and was cleared and restored between 1964 - 1967.

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Europe uncovered Places of interest in Zadar cont’d: City Market: Zadar's city market is one of the biggest and best of the Dalmatian towns. It opened in the Middle Ages, and the large open space dates back to WWII, when many buildings were flattened in this part of town. The outside stalls are filled with mouthwatering local produce, indoors there is a meat market. There’s also a fish market across the road – which locals claim is the best fish market on the coast.

The Riva: Riva is a word meaning “waterfront”. It is the best place to enjoy a stroll and a coffee in seaside towns. When people in Zadar talk about their Riva, they are talking about the promenade on the edge of the Old Town peninsula called Obala Petra Krešimira IV, which was named after a Croatian King.

Places of interest in Zagreb Jelacic Square: The wide Austro-Hungarian styled Jelacic Square (Trg Bana Jelacica) is the busy heart of Zagreb. Around the square you’ll find some beautiful buildings from different eras, the oldest building (no.15) being from 1827. In the middle of the square is a monumental equestrian statue of ban Jelacic who united Croatia for the first time.

The Stone Gate: The Stone Gate (Kamenita vrata) is the last remaining entrance to the city. According to legend, a great fire burned all the wooden sections of the gate in 1731, except for the painting of the Blessed Virgin and Child, which was found in the ashes, miraculously undamaged - people worship this picture today believing this was a miracle.

Upper Town: For the best view of the Lower Town climb the stairs to the Upper Town (Gornji Grad). If walking isn’t your thing then there is the Uspinjaca which opened in 1890 and is one of the oldest funiculars in Europe.

St. Mark's Church: Dates back to the 13th century and used to be the parish church of Gradec. The multi coloured tiles on the left side of the roof represent the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia, while those on right side represent the coat of arms of the city of Zagreb. The earliest known Zagreb coat of arms is the one walled in on the exterior north-western wall of the church in 1499.

Things of note • Croatia has a very Mediterranean feel to it and its beaches were the playgrounds of the rich and famous of Europe before WWI. • Croatian food is a mix of Italian, Balkan and Austrian styles, seafood being the most popular along the coast and peasant food further inland.

• Neck ties (cravat) are said to have originated in Croatia. ekit Toll free access number: 0800-222-253

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Europe uncovered CZECH REPUBLIC Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Prague Czech Crown (Kcs) 10,250,000 78,860 sq.km (30,500 sq. miles) Language: Czech is the official language, English & German are both widely spoken.

Population is majority Czech with a large amount of Slovaks. Minorities include Hungarians, Polish & Germans.

The average yearly temperature over the country is 10.7°C (51°F) and in Prague 9.7°C (50°F) - with temperatures dropping according to height above sea level.

GMT + 1 hr.

Geography Czech Republic lies in the geographical centre of Europe, covering a distance of 767 km (477 miles) west to east and 276 km (171 miles) north to south. It borders Germany and Poland in the north, Slovakia in the east, Hungary and Austria to the south and again Germany to the west. The country has many large mountain ranges and approximately one-third of the territory is covered with forests. A considerable part of the Czech Republic’s natural wealth consists of mineral springs there are some 3,000 of them.

Manners and customs A very friendly welcome is the norm here from the locals. They enjoy many sports especially skiing, ski touring and mountain walking. This builds a healthy appetite for some of their favourite foods like sauerkraut, dumplings, goulash, ‘bramborake’ a kind of potato pancake and many flavoured cream cakes etc. Beer is their most popular drink. Their culture includes considerable folklore, film and music festivals and trade fairs.

Best buys Bohemia crystal/glass, china, fashion jewellery, works of art, products of folk art and Pilsner Urquell beer. ekit Toll Free access number: 800 142 069

DENMARK Capital: Currency: Population: Area:

Copenhagen Danish Krone & Ore 5,400,000 43,069 sq.km (16,600 sq. miles)

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Europe uncovered DENMARK cont’d: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Language: Danish is the national language.

Danes also speak English, German and French. Ethnological Mix: the majority of people are of Scandinavian or Nordic descent.

Summer extends from June to August long sunny periods. Average summer temperature - 18-23°C (64-73°F). Winter is from September to March.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography Denmark is the smallest and flattest of the Scandinavian countries and consists of the Jutland Peninsula and some 500 islands, 100 of which are uninhabited. Several of the larger islands form stepping stones across the Baltic Sea from Jutland, North of West Germany to Sweden - Copenhagen is situated on the eastern-most island of Zealand. With low rolling meadows and a countryside scattered with perfect cobblestoned villages and towns, it is easy to understand where Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish poet and novelist, found the inspiration for his fairy tales.

Places of interest in Copenhagen Cruise: around the newly-developed harbour area, Nyhaven, and take in the sights of this old and historic part of town.

Browse: in the shops along the Stroget, the world’s longest pedestrian shopping street, and perhaps treat yourself to a traditional Danish smorrebrod (open sandwich) for lunch!

Wander: through the Carlsberg Glyptotek, a fantastic collection of artwork sponsored by the foundation which is funded by one of the world’s most famous beer companies.

Discover: the early history of this fine Northern city in the National Museum which features “peat bog” finds dating back to Prehistoric ages.

Manners and customs The Danes are often frank and informal in their attitudes. A smile and a friendly interest should be taken as such and nothing more, and a straightforward remark should not be taken as rudeness.

Tipping has almost been abolished and any tipping should only be as a recognition of good service. Dress is informal.

Smoking is not welcome in many places.

Best buys Porcelain, pottery, amber and glassware. ekit Toll Free access number: 8088 1909 or 8088 5538 ekit hints on calling in Denmark: Avoid using Talent payphones, they tend to block the keypad after dialing the access number and pin.

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Europe uncovered EGYPT Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Cairo Egyptian Pound (LE) 76,117,420 1,001,450 sq.km (386,662 sq.miles) Language: Arabic, although there are various dialects of Bedouin Siwan and Nubian. English and French are also spoken, though not too widely. The ethnic population includes the Christian Cops (direct descendants of Ancient Egyptians) 14%, Nubian and Bedouin tribes adding a traditional African culture and 85% Egyptians following the Sunni Muslim religion.

Egypt is hot and dry most of the year, but its low humidity makes the heat bearable.

In the summer, temperatures range between 30-50°c (86°-122°F) in the south, while at night it can be very cold. The change in temperature in 24 hours can be as much as 37°C (99°F).

GMT + 2 hrs.

Geography Egypt is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea (north), Sudan (south) and Libya (west). The Sinai is the eastern front of Egypt which borders Israel to the north-east. The Red Sea and Gulf of Suez surround its other broader territories.

Egypt mostly consists of flat desert regions apart from the fertile Nile valley and the coastal areas. It also has many oases and some rocky mountainous regions. The Nile river extends some 1200 km (745 miles) from the south to the north of Egypt.

Manners and customs The people are very religious, warm and hospitable. It is a great honour for them to act as host to foreign visitors. They also have a good sense of humour.

Ramadam is the most important Islamic festival where devout Muslims fast from dawn till dusk for a month. Learn to relax and slow down in Egypt - time is not a priority there.

‘Baksheesh’ is a tip for service and sometimes used wrongly as a bribe or to beg from tourists.

Best buys Papyrus paintings, jewellery, beaten copperware, stone carvings and perfume. ekit access number: There is currently no access number for Egypt. ekit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit contiki.ekit.com.

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Europe uncovered FINLAND Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Helsinki Euro 5,200,000 337,000 sq.km (130,115 sq. miles) Language: Finnish, Swedish - English is also generally spoken. Ethnological Mix: majority of people are of Scandinavian and Nordic descent.

Temperate summers - sunny warm long days. Cold sunny winters. Average summer temperature - 21째C (70째F).

GMT + 2 hrs.

Geography About one-third of the land area of Finland is within the Arctic Circle and in the mountainous Far North - Lapland - the sun does not rise for several months in the middle of winter. In summer the midnight sun shines from mid-May and does not set for 70 days. Finland is sparsely populated and most people live in the South. Vast forests are broken up by lakes and laced with rivers and islands, in their tens of thousands.

Places of interest in Helsinki Discover: the market square near the city harbour area where fresh produce and local specialities are offered for sale.

Shop: for Finnish wooden souvenirs or for high-fashion.

Clothing here is of top style and quality however it can be difficult to find bargains.

Explore: the Sedarholm House, the oldest stone building in the city.

Walk: in the gardens of Esplanade and enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere of this pleasant blend of east and west.

Manners and customs Restaurants add 14% service charge during the week and 15% on Sundays and holidays. Crayfish and smoked reindeer meat are popular Finnish specialities. The national pastime is taking a sauna and many homes have their own.

The country has no monarchy, unlike Norway, Sweden and Denmark and the Finns take a fierce pride in their democracy.

Best buys Marimekko fabrics, ceramics, glassware, jewellery, multicoloured patterned rugs. ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 112 010 or 0800 115 393 ekit hints on calling in Finland: For up to the minute access numbers and calling rates go to contiki.ekit.com.

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Europe uncovered FRANCE Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate: Time difference:

Paris Euro 60,424,000 543,965 sq.km (210,025 sq. miles) Language: French, Breton and Basque are also spoken as well as many other dialects.

Ethnological Mix: the majority of people are French. Germans, Britons, Italians, Spaniards, Algerians and Portuguese make up 7 per cent of the population.

Summers hot especially in the South. Fairly cold winters.

GMT + 1 hr.

Places of interest in Paris Eiffel Tower: Travel to the top of this remarkable feat of engineering and design, brainchild of Frenchman; Gustav Eiffel. Long-recognised as a symbol of the city, it is stunning by night and the view is breathtaking by day.

Louvre: Visit the home of one of the world’s most important art collections and see the two most popular exhibits, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo of the Hellenistic Age. (Closed Tuesday).

Shops and markets: Browse through the stores of the Rue de Rivoli and Blvde Hausmann, or perhaps buy in one of the city’s many fashion houses in this, the home of haute couture.

Arc De Triomphe: Visit the world’s most famous triumphal arch and photograph the amazing view of twelve avenues radiating from the arch at the centre. Magic!

Musée d’ Orsay: Explore the world’s largest and most comprehensive Impressionist Collection featuring work by the likes of Pierre-August Renoir, Edgar Degas and Vincent Van Gogh. (Closed Monday).

Pompidou Centre: Visit this “building turned inside out”, a clever example of modern architecture and design and home to the Modern Art Museum. (Closed Tuesday).

Places of interest in Nice Promenade des Anglais: Wander along this 19th century beach-front street in the footsteps of Queen Victoria and soak in the atmosphere of “the life of the rich and famous”.

Le Cours Saleya Markets: Explore the many stalls featuring a variety of goods for sale and also a vast array of fruit, vegetables and fragrant flowers.

Old Town: Enjoy the relaxed nightlife atmosphere of the many bars and restaurants which inhabit this district of town.

Le Fort-Chateau: Appreciate the fine view of the coastline and beaches from the top of these 12th century castle ruins

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Europe uncovered FRANCE cont’d: Places of interest in Cannes Palais du Festivale: Visit the home of the famous annual Cannes Film Festival and follow in the footsteps (or trace the handprints) of stars the likes of Mel Gibson, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Sharon Stone and Whoopi Goldberg!

Boat trips: See one of the islands which lie off the city’s coast by hopping aboard one of the boats which depart from the marina.

Beaches: Relax and enjoy the sun on one of the city’s public beaches at no charge or pay for the luxury of umbrellas and sunlounges at the private ones belonging to the exclusive hotels.

Manners and customs Handshaking is performed on meeting and parting. The French are often seen by outsiders as brusque as they will greet a foreigner as they would a fellow citizen.

Fragonard Paris Une visite gratuite et guidée pour découvrir les secrets de la création des parfums dans nos usines de Grasse et de Eze-Village.

Welcome to the world of Fragonard. Free guided tour of our factories and museums.

MUSÉE DU PARFUM : 9 RUE SCRIBE 75009 PARIS T. +33 (0)1 47 42 04 56

MUSÉE DES CAPUCINES : 39, BOULEVARD DES CAPUCINES 75002 PARIS T. +33 (0)1 42 60 37 14

E-MAIL : TOURISME@FRAGONARD.COM . WWW.FRAGONARD.COM

Kris Gautier

Dinner & Show at 7 pm - Show at 9 pm & 11 pm Montmartre - 82, boulevard de Clichy - 75018 Paris www.moulin-rouge.com

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Europe uncovered FRANCE cont’d: A few words of French will receive a more friendly reply than a request as to whether English is spoken. At some restaurants the same cutlery will be used for all courses.

Best buys Perfume, sunglasses, china and glass, silk scarves, gloves, coffee, cheese and wine. ekit Toll Free access number: 0805 113 721 or 0800 902 292 ekit economy numbers: Paris 01-73-0456-78, Nice 04-89-12-00-32, Lyon 04-26-99-85-81 ekit nationwide economy: 0820 60 0052 • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard perminute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• Nationwide economy numbers offer good rates nationwide but may require a coin deposit.

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Europe uncovered GERMANY Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Berlin Euro 83,030,000 357,849 sq.km (138,167 sq. miles) Language: German. Most Germans speak some English. Russian and French are also spoken in some areas. Ethnological Mix: various teutonic tribes. Important regional differences between Prussian, Swabians and Bavarians - difference in dialect, cuisine and local customs.

Climate is temperate, with warm summers and fairly cold winters. Prolonged periods of frost or snow are rare.

GMT + 1 hr.

Time difference: Geography The Federal Republic is divided into sixteen regions (Bunderslander). It borders The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, Poland and the Czech Republic. The range of scenery is vast, from the Baltic Coast and Islands and the Harz Mountains in the North, the national wine region of the Rhineland in the centre, to the southern area of the Black Forest, and the Alps.

tein t Beers Bigges in n o Selecti er ny! Ov Germa in s in te 3,000 S !!! stock

• Beersteins made since 1600 • Cuckoo Clocks made since 1740 • Birkenstocks Made since 1774 • Wuesthof knifes made since 1814 • Steiff Teddies made since 1880 • Hummel Figurines made since 1935 So, come in and take a look around, you will be amazed, with the selection that we have to offer!!!

We are looking forward to meeting you in one of our stores!!!

Worlds largest freehanging Cuckoo Clock! Over 300 different clocks!!!

K NSTOC BIRKE Montag Steins & Clocks Gmbh Heerstrasse 128 56329 St Goar Tel: 06741-934120 and 2488 Fax: 06741-2086

www.beersteincenter.de - MClock@aol.com

You are interested in 100% German products? Then visit our shop’s we only carry the best German products!!!

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Europe uncovered GERMANY cont’d: Places of interest in Munich Frauenkirche: Explore this symbol of the city, restored after WWII, and perhaps travel to the top of the dome for an impressive view of this city almost totally rebuilt after the devastating bombings it suffered.

Viktualien Markets: Wander through the area long-established as the food markets of Munich and sample some of the local culinary treats such as various kinds of German sausage, pretzels, pastries or, for health-minded people; the best black cherries in the world!

Hofbrauhaus: Visit the oldest and most historic beerhall in this, the city of beer and sample some of its fine brews. Non-drinkers and drinkers alike can appreciate the history and atmosphere in this building where Hitler used to rally his troops.

Deutches Museum: Tour through one of the finest science and technology collections in the world. Although it would take days to see it all, those of you with a scientific interest may want to spend your time visiting this amazing museum in your free time.

Places of interest in Berlin Shoot: photographs of the bird’s-eye-view from the top of the city’s television tower 207m (680 ft) which rises above Alexanderplatz. You can see for 40km (25 miles)!

Travel: back in time at the internationally renowned Pergamon Museum, home of the Pergamon Altar (dating back to 180-159BC) and also to Egyptian and Byzantine Collections.

Visit: Haus Checkpoint Charlie museum, dedicated to a display of “life behind the wall”, courage, bravery and ingenious escape plans. A “must-see”!

Wander: up the “Unter Den Linden” into the former “East Berlin” and past the site where Hitler’s famous book burnings used to take place and the impressive University Buildings.

Explore: the Zoo Station area, lively, interesting and full of fantastic shopping opportunities - a great place to get a taste of Berlin.

Manners and customs Both married and older women are addressed as ‘Frau’. Tipping is not expected. Customs for formal dress are comparable to Britain.

Germany is famous for Rhine wines, Munich Beerhalls, carnivals such as Fasching and Oktoberfest - both in Munich - and the world-famous ballet in Stuttgart.

Best buys Cameras, binoculars, beer steins, kitchen knives. ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 100 6492 or 0800 182 2261 ekit economy numbers: Berlin 030-3001-90670, Munich 089-7104-24543 and Frankfurt 069-6677-75528. ekit hints on calling in Germany: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• Try use New World (NWG Communications) payphones wherever possible.

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Europe uncovered GREAT BRITAIN England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland Capital: London Currency: Pounds & Pence Population: 60,000,000 Area: 242,000 sq.km (93,440 sq. miles) People: Language: English - with varying dialects throughout the country, Welsh in parts of Wales and Gaelic in parts of Western Scotland and Southern Ireland.

Climate: Very mixed and unpredictable - warmer in the South. Summer extends from June to September, Winter - November to February.

Geography Great Britain is situated off the North-West coast of Europe.

Although a comparatively small country, it has a great variety of scenery in its towns and countryside.England is hills and rolling downs, low plains and river valleys. Scotland offers wild mountainous scenery in the scarcely populated highlands and islands, while Wales is a country of ancient hills cut by numerous rivers and valleys.

Northern Ireland covers only about one-sixth of the total area of Ireland and is a land of unspoiled coastline and countryside, with beautiful inland lakes, mountains and hundreds of rivers and streams.

Places of interest in London Buckingham Palace: Definitely at the top of the list. See the Changing of the Guards (which is on every other day at 11.00am).

You’ll have to be there early to get a good viewing point.

Tower of London: Take a tour with a Beefeater and also see the Crown Jewels. You’ll find out who lost their head and where.

Madame Tussaud’s: This is the original and the best. Mingle with all your favourite stars, royalty and politicians, then ride in a black cab through London’s history. Don’t forget the Chamber of Horrors to give you a good scare.

British Museum: You could easily spend all day here - the place is huge. It’s just around the corner from the Royal National Hotel and there are plenty of different sections to choose from.

Open-Top Bus Tour: Some are all day jump on and off and some are just a tour. It’s a great way to see London.

For the shoppers: Definitely no shortages, Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Harrods, Chelsea, High Street Kensington & Camden Market.

Eating places Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Hard Rock Cafe (Green Park tube station), Planet Hollywood (Leicester Square or Piccadilly tube stations)

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Europe uncovered GREAT BRITAIN cont’d: Must do’s Two more things for the list - a ride in a black cab and the Underground (tube).

Places of interest in Edinburgh Edinburgh Castle: The most famous and you certainly can’t miss it - just look up the hill! A guided tour of the castle is available with the Scottish Crown Jewels on view.

Gladstone’s Land: This is a great place to see exactly what a 17th century Tenement building looked like. It sets a picture of how the people of Edinburgh lived.

Writers Museum: Three famous writers all from Scotland have their treasure on show - Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott.

For the shoppers: Princes Street, Waverley Centre, King James Centre.

Places To eat: Waverley Centre, streets running off Princes Street, Grassmarket.

Places of interest in York York Minster: This is the largest medieval Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, Definitely make the effort to go and have a look and then if you’re really keen climb the 275 stone steps to the top of the Tower for unbelievable city views.

For the shoppers: Parliament Street, Stonegate, Shambles, High and Low Petergate Places To eat: There is no shortage of restaurants and cafes in York.

Manners and customs The English are said to be traditional and conservative but they’re also a nation of eccentrics and are known for their marvellous sense of humour. Scotland is noted for its bagpipes, kilts, haggis and whisky. The Welsh have a passion for rugby and music and you’ll also find many indecipherable road signs in Wales!

Best buys Ready-made clothes, cashmere, tweed, electrical goods. ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 032 6297 ekit economy number: London economy 020 7943 2772 ekit nationwide economy: 0845 085 0855 ekit hints on calling in Great Britain: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the UK telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

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Europe uncovered GREECE Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Athens Euro 10,270,000 131,986 sq.km (50,960 sq. miles) Language: Greek - ancient alphabet of 24 letters is still used. Ethnological Mix: 96 per cent Greek, 4 per cent Turkish.

Greece has a warm Mediterranean climate.

In summer, dry hot days are often relieved by stiff breezes. July and August are the hottest months with temperatures rising to 32°C (90°F).

GMT + 2 hrs.

Geography The country is divided between a mainland and a scattering of large and small islands. The mainland extends into the Mediterranean, surrounded by sea on three sides. The countryside is rugged with 80 per cent of the land covered by mountains.

Come Afloat on George’s Boat !!!

Don’t miss out on this superb full day trip a great opportunity to get an off-shore view of Corfu’s idyllic scenery.

We sail up the East Coast, make frequent stops and also drop anchor at a lively seaside resort.

Lunch is included in the price.

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Europe uncovered GREECE cont’d: Mt. Olympus, the legendary home of the gods, rises to 2900m (9,570 ft) and is the highest peak in the country. Greece is a beautiful country with 3,590 kms (2230 miles) of coastline, rocky hills spread with colourful wild flowers in the summer and seas of deep blue and aquamarine.

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Europe uncovered GREECE cont’d: Places of interest in Athens Plaka: Explore this extraordinary maze of streets full of a variety of goods to buy (NB. bartering is expected) and featuring a fantastic array of tavernas and seafood restaurants - perfect for a leisurely lunch.

Parliament Building and Constitution Square: Visit the tomb of the unknown soldier, guarded by the tall Evjon guards who wear traditional Greek uniforms of skirts and “pom-pommed” shoes.

National Gardens: Wander through these former palace gardens and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city with it’s blend of history and modern living.

Manners and customs The Greeks are generally gregarious, generous and hospitable.

Tipping is normal at 10% of the bill. Handshaking is common and frequent. A nod of the head is a negative response.

Traditional singing and dancing is popular and visitors are encouraged to join in!

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Europe uncovered GREECE cont’d: Best buys: Sheepskin rugs, worry beads, bouzouki records, pottery & sponges.

NB: Ignore the temptation to buy fake antiques, especially archaeological items. ekit Toll Free access number: 00800-125-741 or 00800-1809-201-2429 ekit hints on calling in Greece: • Use ‘OTE’ payphones where possible.

• You may experience problems dialling the service from payphones in Patras.

HUNGARY Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Budapest Hungarian Florint 10,032,375 92,966 sq. km (35,890 sq. miles) Language: Hungarian is the official language, however many people speak German.

English is also spoken in the main cities.

Spring and Winter are wet, but Autumn is still quite warm and Summer can be quite hot in July and August.

GMT + 1hr

Geography The River Danube divides Hungary into the Great Plain in the east and Transdanubia in the west. In the north there are mountain ranges that are home to Hungary’s highest peak (Mount Kékesteto).

Places of interest in Budapest Often referred to as the “Paris of the East”, Budapest is a combination of two cites; Buda on the hill and Pest on the flat. The Danube River flows through the city centre. The Castle District, located on Castle Hill, contains many important city monuments and museums as well as great views across the city.

Stroll through the Old Town to take in the view from Fishermen’s Bastion or visit the Royal Palace, home to the Hungarian National Gallery and History Museum. Bathhouses are a popular for Hungarians and tourists alike to relax in the warm thermal and cooling mineral springs that lap under the city.

Manners and customs The humble biro pen was invented by Hungarian Lazio Biro. ekit Toll Free access number: 06800-17053 or 06800-15970 ekit hints on calling from Hungary • Use 'Matáv' payphones where possible.

• Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

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Europe uncovered ITALY Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Rome Euro 58,057,000 301,225 sq.km (116,300 sq. miles) Language: Italian with regional dialects, English is widely spoken. Ethnological Mix: Italian and Central European.

Italy has a Mediterranean climate; dry hot summers in the coastal areas of the South; warm summers with cool nights in the North - average temperature 24°C (75°F) in summer.

GMT + 1 hr.

Geography With Mediterranean and Adriatic coastlines, Italy borders on France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia in the North. Italy is a boot-shaped peninsula, the second longest in the world (after Baja California) and stretches from the Alps and the Dolomite mountain range in the North to the volcanic island of Sicily in the South.

Places of interest in Florence Ponte Vecchio: Cross Florence’s oldest bridge and indulge in a spot of “window shopping” as you pass by the exclusive shops and take in the scenery either side of the River Arno.

Accademia: Explore some of the works of Michelangelo and Botticelli displayed in this, the home of the statue of David which is one of the masterpieces of the Renaissance period.

(Closed Monday).

Gold and leather: Shop for some of the finest quality 18ct Italian gold jewellry you’ll ever see - so much variety and plenty of styles to choose from. Shop for highly fashionable leather jackets, bags, belts and shoes. You can just see the quality and the superior workmanship.

Uffizi Gallery: Follow the evolution of Italian art from it’s beginnings right through to the 17th century and housed in the former administrative offices of the Medici family. Works by Giotti, Veronese, Tintoretto and Caravaggio. (Closed Monday).

Places of interest in Rome Pantheon: Marvel at the “best preserved” ancient building in Rome, with it’s 43.3m (142 ft) open-topped dome and take in the peaceful atmosphere of this final resting place of the Kings of modern Italy and the artist, Raphael.

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Europe uncovered ITALY cont’d: Vatican: Visit the wealthy and opulent Vatican museum which is overflowing with Classical and Renaissance art as well as Greek and Roman antiques. Also visit the Sistine Chapel; with it’s ceiling that was enriched by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. See St. Peter’s Basilica which took a century to build on the site of St. Peter’s martyrdom. (Closed every Sunday - except last Sunday of the month open till 2.00pm).

Spanish Steps: Enjoy this meeting place near the via Condotti (exclusive shopping street) and watch the passers-by. The Spanish Embassy was by this site in the 17th century, hence it’s name, and the area is now a popular meeting place.

Forum: Explore the former centre of political, commercial and judicial life in ancient Rome, at ground level and examine the ruins of pagan temples, markets and arches. (Closed early on Sundays).

Fontana Di Trevi (Trevi Fountain): Experience the magic and romance of the city’s most famous fountain, completed in 1762.

‘Three Coins In A Fountain’ & ‘Roman Holiday’ scenes were filmed here.

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Europe uncovered ITALY cont’d: Places of interest in Venice Appreciate: the majesty of “the finest drawing room in Europe” in the words of Napoleon, with covered galleries and fine cafe’s.

Experience the view from the top of the campanile (Bell Tower) the finest bird’s-eye look at the city!

See the Byzantine influence in architecture of the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica. (Closed Sunday).

Rialto Bridge: Explore this unusual hump-backed bridge which was designed to allow an armed gallery to pass under it. Visit the shops and stalls which line it and catch a great view of the Grand Canal.

Guggenheim Museum: Visit the exceptional collection of 20th century modern pieces, put together by Peggy Guggenheim, a fan of the Surrealists. Works by Salvador Dali and Joan Miro.

(Closed Tuesday).

Grand Canal: Ride along the Grand Canal and wonder at the sumptuous palaces in various styles that line it. Rest your feet and take advantage of the city’s water buses to see it as it was always meant to be seen - from the water!

Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs: Look at the opulence and grandeur of the former residence of the Dukes of Venice, rich in art works and military displays alike. Go inside if you’d like to walk across the “bridge of sighs”, which connected the palace to the Pozzi Prison where Casanova was once incarcerated.

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Europe uncovered ITALY cont’d: Manners and customs It is considered courteous to shake hands warmly on both arriving and leaving and to kiss the hand of a married woman.

Italians eat their main meal in the afternoon, around 1.00pm. The opening course is generally ‘antipasto’ - a mixed plate of cold hors d’oeuvres. Italian cuisine is not only pasta; each of the 20 different regions of the country has its own distinct cuisine. The family is an important Italian institution and a marriage is not really considered a marriage until a child is born.

NB. When visiting places of a religious significance in Italy, it is necessary to dress appropriately. Your Tour Manager will advise you further.

Best buys Leather shoes, belts, gloves, silk scarves, ties, jewellery, Florentine tooled leather, Venetian glass and art books. ekit Toll Free access number: 800 985 675 or 800 783 882 ekit economy number: Milan economy 02 3601 0911 Rome economy 06-9165-7473 ekit hints on calling in Italy: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• You must include the ‘0’ of the area code when dialling Italian phone numbers, for example, dial 390 followed by the Italian number.

LATVIA Capital: Currency:: Population: Area:: People::

Climate:

Time difference:

Riga Lats 2,291,000 64,589 sq.km (24,937 sq. mi) Language: The official language is Latvian although there is a large population of Russians living in Latvia who do not recognise the national language so Russian is also widely understood if not spoken.

Latvia’s location on the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga ensure a humid climate in summer and a high number of rainy days per year.

Winter is usually mild with a short period over December to February of continuous snowfall.

GMT + 2 hrs

Geography Surrounded by Lithuania, Estonia, Belarus and Russia as well as the Baltic Sea. Latvia lies on the East European Plain so is mostly flat and largely covered in Pine forest.

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Europe uncovered LATVIA cont’d: Places of interest in Riga: St Peter’s Church: the perfect view of Riga can be seen from the top of its towering spire.

The Dome Cathedral: the largest in the Baltics and well known for its 6768 pipe organ.

The Occupation Museum: an impressive museum on the occupations of the Soviets and Nazis during 1940-1991, hidden away in a former military bunker.

Central Markets: the place in Riga to pick up everything from CDs and DVDs to amber to the infamous Riga Black Balsams.

Drink it if you dare!

Watch the changing of the guards at the Freedom Monument, which replaced a statue of Peter the Great in 1935 and was then left standing but made off limits by the Soviets during their occupation.

Admire the architecture of the Heritage Listed old town area with its beautiful Art Nouveau buildings Manners and customs Overall, Latvians are very quiet and reserved, preferring to build friendships gradually rather than raising suspicion by appearing immediately friendly. They are usually formal in their greetings until they feel comfortable with you. Don’t worry, you’ll know when this happens because they’ll invite you to use their first name.

Each person in Latvia celebrates two birthdays, their day of birth and their name day. Each day of the year is allocated one or more male and female names (in Latvian) and when your name day comes around, it’s presents and party time again!

Latvians are very fond of flowers, giving and receiving, to both men and women. An important rule applies though, only give odd numbers as even numbers of flowers are placed on graves.

Things of note: Latvia is a full member of the European Union and plans to implement the Euro as its national currency however, due to high inflation this is unlikely to occur before 2010.

Latvia actually has three languages listed as being legally recognised. Latvian and the two almost extinct languages, Livonian and Latgalian, neither of which are taught in schools.

The DJ for the band Limp Bizkit is Latvian.

Legend has it that Riga was the location for the first decorated Christmas tree! (Religious revolutionary, Martin Luther, was enchanted by the snow laden pine trees glistening in the moonlight that he cut a small one down and took it home to his children, attaching candles to imitate the snow and moonlight effect.)

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Europe uncovered LIECHTENSTEIN Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People: Climate: Time difference:

Vaduz Uses Swiss Currency 33,440 157 sq.km (60 sq. miles) Language: German.

Ethnological Mix: Germans and Celts.

Summer, moderate, changeable, cooler on the mountains.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography The principality of Liechtenstein extends from the right bank of the Rhine to the Vorarlberg Mountains. Almost three times the size of Bermuda, Liechtenstein is a fairy-tale land of medieval castles, lush Rhine meadows, ivy-clad chalets, vineyards and quaint villages.

Places of interest in Vaduz Passports: Stamp your passport (fee not included) at the Tourist Office if visiting Vaduz at an appropriate time of the day.

Castle: View the royal castle of the Liechtenstein ruling family, which is situated high above the town of Vaduz.

Manners and customs Tipping is 10-15% as well as service charges.

Best buys Stamps - among the most decorative and valuable in the world, leather and wooden handicrafts. ekit access number: There is currently no access number for Liechtenstein. ekit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit www.contiki.ekit.com.

MACEDONIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate: Time difference:

Skopje Denar 2,045,262 25,333 sq km (9,780 sq. miles) Language: The official language is Macedonian, however small pockets speak Albanian, Turkish and Bosnian. Religion: Eastern Orthodox, Muslim Macedonia enjoys warm, dry summers but relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall GMT +1hr

Geography Macedonia shares borders with Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia and Montenegro. The land is very green and scenic with mountainous areas, deep basins and valleys. There are also three large lakes and the country is bisected by the Vardar River.

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Europe uncovered MACEDONIA cont’d: Things of note • The town of Ohrid and Lake Ohrid have been placed under the protection of UNESCO as outstanding and significant environments.

• Lake Ohrid is Europe’s oldest lake and is 289 m (948 ft.) deep, making it the seventh deepest lake in Europe.

• Situated across the border of Macedonia and Albania, one third of the lake is in Albanian territory. ekit access number: There is currently no access number for Macedonia, ekit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit www.contiki.ekit.com.

MONACO Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate: Time difference:

Monaco Euro 32,300 1.95 sq.km. (1 sq. mile) Language; French, Monegasque (a mixture of French and Italian). Ethnological Mix: Monegasques, French, Italian and Russian.

Mild in winter, warm in summer with ittle rain.

GMT + 1 hr.

Geography One of the smallest states in Europe, Monaco is divided into four parts - Monaco (the old city), Monte Carlo (the new city), La Condamine (the port) and Fontvielle (the industrial district where Monaco brews its own beer). Sleek modern architecture stands next to traditional French Mediterranean buildings. The climate resembles that of Southern California and orange and lemon trees and palms are in abundance.

Places of interest in Monaco Grand Casino: View this beautiful building by the designer of the original Paris Opera, Charles Garnier. An admission fee is required to enter the casino but the decoration inside is ornate & decadent.

Grand Prix Circuit: See the route the Formula 1 cars follow around Monaco and Monte Carlo in this famous annual motor race!

Boat Harbour: Look at how the “other half” live judging by the amazing array of boats and luxury yachts in the marina. Perhaps catch a glimpse of the Royal yacht, “Deo Juvanté” (god-willing). ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 913 588 ekit hints on calling in Monaco: • Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

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Europe uncovered THE NETHERLANDS Political Capital: Official Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate: Time difference:

Den Haag (The Hague) Amsterdam Euro 16,318,000 41,160 sq. km (15,890 sq. miles) Language: Dutch, English, French, German, Belgian. Ethnological Mix: Dutch, Belgians, Frisians, Germanic stock with French mixture.

Fairly cool summers, moderate winters fairly wet throughout the year.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography There’s an old saying that ‘God made the world, but the Dutch made Holland,’ which you can almost believe when you realise that nearly half the country has been reclaimed from the sea.

Miles upon miles of unbroken flower fields, farmland and villages can all be found in this flat country which has rolling hills and forests in the South along its border with Belgium.

Amsterdam, the largest city, has more canals than Venice, containing over 100km (60 miles) of waterways, spanned by 1000 bridges.

Places of interest in Amsterdam Rijksmuseum: Explore an extensive collection of paintings

by Dutch masters in the Netherlands’ largest National Museum which opened in 1885. Features “The Night Watch”

by Rembrandt.

Albert Cuypmarket: Shop for a variety of goods from delicious Dutch licorice and stroop waffels to clothes, shoes and all kinds of food, at this, the city’s best known market. Closed Sundays.

Anne Frank Huis: Marvel at how two Jewish families hid from the Nazis for two years in WWII by occupying the second floor of what was then an office building and moving around only at night instead of the day-time to avoid discovery. Anne Frank kept a diary of her experience now a best-seller in dozens of languages. (Closed January 1st, Yom Kippur (October 2, 2006), December 25th).

Van Gogh Museum: Experience the work of a tormented genius in the best collection of Van Gogh’s work in the world today.

Popular pieces include “The Potato Eaters” and “Vase With Sunflowers”. (Closed January 1st).

Bloemenmarket (Flower Market): Wander along the Singél Canal at the last of the city’s floating markets and enjoy the displays of fragrant seasonal flowers. (Closed Sunday).

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Europe uncovered THE NETHERLANDS cont’d: Manners and customs The Dutch people are polite and courteous and prefer formal greetings on first meetings. The Dutch are a nation of cyclists and in Amsterdam 540,000 people have bicycles - not surprising when you consider how flat the land is. Amsterdam is famous for its restaurants - particularly those offering Indonesian cuisine. The rijstafel (rice table) is a large dish of rice surrounded by up to 20 smaller dishes of meat and chicken with a huge variety of sauces.

Best buys Diamonds, Delftware - blue and white pottery, Edam and Gouda cheese, white porcelain, clogs and tulip bulbs. ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 020 3235 or 0800 023 3971 ekit economy number: Amsterdam 0207 084 130, Rotterdam 0107 994 093 ekit hints on calling in The Netherlands: • Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

AL SPECIER O FF M FRO in co-operation with

HOLLAND CHEESE PROMOTION a pair of wooden shoes worth g10

FREE if you buy g25 worth of Dutch cheese

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Europe uncovered NORWAY Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Oslo Norwegian Krone - Ore 4,575,000 323,894 sq.km (125,055 sq. miles) Language: Norwegian (Bokmal and Nyorsk book language and local dialect). English widely spoken. Ethnological Mix: Norwegian and Lapp.

The coastal climate is warmer than inland due to the Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Drift, which also keeps Norway’s harbours free from ice. Average summer temperature 21°C (70°F). Winter is cold with snowfall from November-March.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography Norway stretches along the western edge of the Scandinavian peninsula bordering Sweden, Finland and Russia to the East.

The country has a 2800km (1,700 miles) coastline on the North Atlantic, raggedly indented with fjords, inlets, peninsulas and islands which are extremely beautiful. The scenery of the country is amongst the most spectacular in Europe - over 80 per cent of the country is taken up by wild mountains and forests. Its mountainous landscape provides excellent skiing; in fact the word ‘ski’ is Norwegian.

Places of interest in Oslo Kon-Tiki Museum: Experience Thor Heyerdahl’s voyage on his primitive Kon-tiki raft. Be amazed by the story of a man whohad the courage to test his theory of the settling of Polynesia by South Americans who sailed west on Balsawood rafts.

Akerhus Fortress: Walk through the historic parts of the city beginning at the Akerhus Fortress which offers guided tours and feature fortified walls armed with cannons and a fantastic view!

Norway’s Resistance museum is also housed in the grounds.

Munch Museum: Visit the Munch Museum which houses Edvard Munch’s bequest to the city of Oslo. A delightfully “light and airy” gallery with over 1,100 paintings and 18,000 prints.

Manners and customs Norwegians are not class conscious and are very polite.

Handshaking is popular, dress is informal. Cross country and downhill skiing are popular sports and a Nordic speciality is ski jumping. In the last 50 years, Norway has won more Olympic gold medals in Nordic skiing than any other country. Norwegian meals are often large with an emphasis on fish and seafood specialities. Liquor laws are very strict and in some parts of the country alcohol is not available at all.

Best buys Pewter, silver and knitwear.

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Europe uncovered NORWAY cont’d: ekit Toll Free access number: 800 11 357 or 800 15794 ekit economy number: Oslo 021-563-229 ekit hints on calling in Norway: • Use ‘Telenor’ payphones where possible.

• Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

POLAND Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Warsaw Zloty 38,626,000 312,677 sq.km (120,725 sq. miles) Language: Polish, German, Russian and some English and French. Ethnological Mix: West European.

Temperate - summers inclined to be very warm and winters cold. Average summer temperature 20°C (68°F).

GMT + 1 hr

Geography Poland is bordered by the Baltic to the North, Russia to the North and East, the Czech Republic to the South and East and Germany to the West. Over 70 per cent of Poland is farmland which leads to the steppland of Russia. In the North are pine and birch forests. Major rivers include the Vistula, Oder, Bug and the Warta.

Places of interest in Warsaw Explore: the “old town” square, much of which has been totally re-built since the devastation of World War II, a credit to the tenacity and courage of the Poles.

Shop: in the New Town Markets in the heart of modern Warsaw - a whole variety of goods for sale.

Walk: the “Royal Route” from the Royal Castle past almost all the prominent sights and impressive buildings the city has to offer.

Experience: the horror of systematic genocide of the Warsaw Jews in WWII, visit Umshlagplatz Station where trains departed for the gas chambers of Treblinka and see the Mila 18 memorial.

Photograph: the magnificent Barbican Gate and see the statue of Sirena, the mermaid - symbol of the city of Warsaw.

Manners and customs The national dish of Poland is Bigos, made with Sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, onions and any variety of left over meat. Poland is also a good country for fish - carp served in sweet and sour jellied sauce. Pastries are also very good in Poland. The national drink is Vodka, which is drunk chilled before, during and after nearly every meal.

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Europe uncovered POLAND cont’d: Dress is casual, but for evenings at the theatre and restaurants dress is more formal. Shops are usually open weekdays from 9.00am to 7.00pm. Saturdays until 5.00pm.

Best buys Glass and enamelware, hand-woven rugs, silverware and handmade jewellery, dolls in regional costumes, wood carvings and sculptures in clay and metal. ekit Toll Free access number: 00800 111 3535 or 00800 0121 1827 ekit hints on calling in Poland: • Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Dublin Euro 3,970,000 70,282 sq.km (27,135 sq. miles) Language: English is spoken throughout with its own Irish flavour and lilt. Some parts of western and southern Ireland have Gaelic as their native language. The Republic of Ireland is officially bilingual.

Even though the Republic of Ireland is further north than Newfoundland or Vancouver, its climate is relatively mild for its latitude. Snow is scarce in winter. The warmest months are July and August, with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). Ireland does receive a lot of rain, which is brought in by the prevailing winds from the Atlantic.

Places of interest in Dublin Kilmainham Gaol: This is the biggest unoccupied gaol in these islands, giving you a realistic insight into what it would have been like to be confined in the 1700s-1900s. You get a guided tour, audio-visual presentation and then there’s the exhibition.

Guinness Brewery: This is the home of that famous “Black Beer”.

The beer is produced around the world at a rate of over 10 million glasses each day - but the best tasting Guinness is in Dublin.

Trinity College: This is the oldest university in Ireland. It is not only well renowned for it’s teaching but also for the 9th century illuminated manuscript the Book Of Kells. Also at the college you can take a guided tour through the school by the students and visit the Dublin Experience which is a multi-media interpretation of the city.

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Europe uncovered REPUBLIC OF IRELAND cont’d: For the shoppers: O’Connell Street, Henry Street, Grafton Street.

Places To eat: Pretty much the same as the shopping. There is heaps to choose from. Explore Temple Bar area. ekit Toll Free access number: 1800 992 363 or 1800 559 634 ekit economy number: Dublin economy 01-486-1296 ekit Nationwide economy: 1850-930-363 ekit hints on calling in the Republic of Ireland: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• Use ‘Eircom’, ‘Esat’, ‘ITG’ and ‘SMART’ payphones where possible.

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Europe uncovered RUSSIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Moscow Roubles and Kopeks 144,000,000 17,000,000 sq.km (6,563,700 sq. miles) Language: Russian is spoken widely except in the national republics where people usually speak their own native languages.

Ethnological Mix: over 100 nationalities, Russians 80%, Ukrainians over 10%, many other nationalities including Ukranians, Chechens & Armenians.

The southern areas of Russia, including Central Asia and resorts of the Black Sea and Caspian, enjoy mild winters and fairly warm summers. Sharp changes of temperature can occur in May. January and February are the coldest months especially in Siberia.

GMT + 3 hrs

Geography Russia is the largest country in the world, stretching on average 10,000km (6,000 miles) from West to East and 3300km (2,000 miles) from North to South. The countryside is varied, ranging from Arctic tundra in the North, through endless pine forests, to the belt of fertile Steppe or grassland which extends from Poland to the Siberian plain, broken only by the Ural Mountains and the wide rivers of Siberia. Most of the southern border of Russia is mountainous.

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Europe uncovered RUSSIA cont’d: Places of interest in St. Petersburg Explore: the main street of town, Nevsky Prospekt. Visit the department stores and perhaps take a look at the Alexander Nevsky Monastery and cemetery which features the grave of Tchaikovsky.

Shoot: some photographs of the magnificent sights of this stunning city, Peter the Great’s “Window to the West”. The church of our Saviour of the Spilled Blood, The Bronze Horseman and St. Isaac’s Cathedral are popular subjects.

Ride: the St. Petersburg metro-journey to the centre of the earth!

Places of interest in Moscow Shop: in the famous GUM store where only politicians and their wives could afford the items for sale in the days of the Communist Regime.

Visit: The Kremlin and world famous Red Square where Lenin is still lying in State.

Walk: the length of Arbat Street and explore the stalls, kiosks and the Irish supermarket.

Explore: the Pushkin Fine Arts Museum which houses a broad collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressonist paintings including works by Degas and Renoir.

Manners and customs The Russians have a strong cultural history of literature (Tolstoy, Chekhov, Dostoevsky), ballet and music. The Bolshoi Ballet Company is world-famous. Russia is traditionally noted for vodka and caviar, sour cream and borsch (beetroot soup).

Best buys In local markets traditional Russian dolls are a popular and cheap choice. ekit Toll Free access number: 8 10 800 2843 3011 or 8 10 800 2092 1012 ekit hints on calling in Russia: • Dial 8, wait for a second tone and then dial the rest of the number.

• The service is only available from card-operated payphones on ‘Rostelecom’ (light grey metallic colour) in Moscow.

SERBIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Belgrade Dinar 9,778,991 88,361 sq. km (34,116 sq. miles) Language: Serbian is the only official language, however Albanian is widely spoken in some territories including Kosovo where there are large amounts of ethnic Albanians.

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Europe uncovered SERBIA cont’d:

Climate:

Time difference:

Young people are more likely to speak other languages including English, French, Russian and German. 66% of the population are ethnically Serbian, 17% are Albanian and the other 17% is made up of more than 30 different nationalities.

The climate varies between the northern and southern parts of the country. The north has very cold winters and humid summers, the south has dry summers and cool winters.

GMT +1hr

Geography Serbia is a landlocked country in the Balkans and the terrain ranges from mountains to fertile plains. The largest river flowing through the country is the Danube in the north.

Serbia shares borders with Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, the Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Romania.

Places of Interest in Belgrade Republic Square: The square is built on the sight of a city gate from the Ottoman era and has been home to many important events in Serbian history.

Belgrade Fortress: The first fortress was built on the rocky ridge overlooking the city by the Romans in the 1st Century AD. It was rebuilt many times, including by the Austrians and Turks and now towers majestically over the city.

Manners and customs A few interesting points to note while in Serbia: Whilst eating, the knife should not be used to push food on to the fork. When people meet for the first time they say their first name, shake hands and say “Drago mi je ” (Pleased to meet you). When saying cheers “Ziveli ” touch glasses and pay attention that you look to the eyes of all the people you toast with.

Best buys Handicrafts, including embroidery, wickerwork and woodwork products. Shoes, leather, copperware and Serbian crystal. ekit access number: There is currently no access number for Serbia, ekit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit contiki.ekit.com.

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Europe uncovered SLOVENIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: Language:

Religion:

Climate:

Time difference:

Ljubljana Euro 1,964,000 20,273 sq km (7,827 sq miles) The official language is Slovene though about 90% speak Croatian and Serbian and many are conversant in English and Italian.

Just over half of all Slovenes are Roman Catholic; other religious communities include Muslims, Eastern Orthodox Christians and Protestants.

Slovenia enjoys both Mediterranean and Alpine climates. Summer temperatures reach 23°C (74°F) in Ljubljana whilst during winter it can drop to -1°C (30° F).

Summer = GMT + 2 hrs.

Geography Slovenia is a central European country which borders Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia. Although the country is small, covering a tiny 0.2% of Europe’s total landmass, it is packed with a variety of natural beauties. Slovenia is predominantly hilly and boasts white limestone mountains in the Alps, vineyards are a major feature in the northeast and in the east the locals are blessed with a stunning 47km of Adriatic coastline. Slovenes make great use of the diverse landscape; popular activities include skiing, rock climbing, caving, rafting and paragliding.

Places of Interest in Ljubljana Climb: the Belvedere Tower of Ljubljana Castle for spectacular views of the Old town and across the Ljubljanica river.

Stroll: through the open air Centralna Trznica (Central Market).

Local produce includes mushrooms, forest berries and homemade cheeses.

Wander: the narrow cobbled streets of the Old Town.

Manners and customs For many years the Slovenes were considered to be a serious, strict and formal people. As part of Yugoslavia they were seen as the most straight-laced nationality. Today, as easy going and industrious people they are by far the most “European” of the former Yugoslavian republics.

Best buys Wrought iron, lace, carved wooden pipes, suha roba (wooden household utensils), crystal, black pottery. ekit access number: There is currently no access number for Slovenia, ekit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit contiki.ekit.com.

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Europe uncovered SPAIN Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Madrid Euro 40,280,000 504,782 sq.km (194,897 sq. miles) Language: Spanish (Castillian), Catalan, Galician, Basque. Ethnological Mix: 90 per cent Spanish with minority of Basque.

The north is temperate, whilst the south is dry. The extreme South of Spain is the hottest in summer with temperatures rising to 38°c (100°F) in some places.

GMT + 1 hr.

Geography Spain, together with Portugal, occupies the Iberian Peninsula and offers every type of climate and geographical feature. The Pyrenees physically separate Spain from France and the rest of Europe, while the Straits of Gibraltar separate Spain from Africa. Spain is the third largest country in Europe after France and is more mountainous than any other European country, except Switzerland. It also has 4000km (2,475 miles) of coastline and it is possible to ski in the Sierra Nevada, less than 80km (50 miles) from the Costa del Sol.

Botoneras 5, 28012 Madrid Phone: 34 91 366 30 28

The best Spanish cuisine since 1894. Located in the Plaza Mayor of Madrid. Enjoy our food and ambience in a place you’ll never forget.

www.losgalayos.net

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Europe uncovered SPAIN cont’d: Places of interest in Barcelona Picasso Museum: Visit the home of much of the work of Pablo Picasso to see his beginnings in very “traditional and acceptable” styles before adopting a modern style all of his own.

Be amazed at the evolution he underwent as a great painter.

Port Vell: Experience the newest shopping sensation in town! Built on the water-front at the base of the Ramblas, Port Vell is a modern European Complex featuring a food hall, bars, fashion outlets and even a theme restaurant designed by Steven Spielberg!

Gothic Quarter: Explore this old section of the city which houses it’s amazing cathedral, with Roman ruins and narrow, winding streets; it was here that Christopher Columbus brought his findings from the “new world” to offer the King and Queen of Spain.

Columbus Column: Climb this column situated at the base of the main street of Barcelona features a statue of Christopher Columbus supposedly pointing towards the “new world”. Take the lift and take a look for yourself.

La Ramblas: Walk along the promenade of the main street of Barcelona and take in the sights and sounds of the city’s flower stalls, bird markets and also visit the fruit, vegetable and fish markets located just off the main street.

Places of interest in Madrid Visit: The Prado Museum. Designed in 1785 for Charles III. Contains 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th century art concentrating on El Greco, Valaquez and Goya. The Prado Museum represents Spain’s greatest contribution to world culture. The museum benefited greatly from a law passed in 1836 which forced monastries, convents and churches to hand over their works of art to allow them to be enjoyed by the public.

See: The Reina Sofia Museum. It opened in 1990 and has a contemporary art collection. The focus is on Picasso, Dali and Miro and is home to Picasso’s “Guernica”.

Enjoy: Plaza Mayor Experience: The Royal Palace. Built by Phillip the 5th from 1734 on the site of the old Alcazar that was destroyed on Christmas Day of the same year. It is perhaps the most well preserved Royal Palace in Europe, with 2800 rooms that are decorated with Flemish tapestries, paintings by the royal artist Goya and numerous artifacts.

Manners and customs The custom of Siesta is gradually disappearing and department stores now stay open through the traditional 3-hour Siesta.

Many of the specialities of Spanish cuisine are based on seafood - eels, bream and squid. The area of Andalusia is noted for its cooking, especially featuring Gazpacho, a cold vegetable soup. Spain is also famous for bullfights and flamenco dancing.

INFORMATION INFORMA AT TION AND BOOKINGS BOOK KINGS

Phone: (34) 93 325 68 95

info@tablaodecarm info@tablaodecarmen.com men.com www.tablaodecarmen.com www .tablaodecarm men.com

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Europe uncovered SPAIN cont’d: Best Buys Leatherware - shoes, sandals, Toledo wrought swords, peasant pottery and baskets, jewellery, Lladro figurines. ekit Toll Free access number: 800 099 665 or 900 931 951 ekit economy number: Madrid economy 91-787-25-91 ekit Nationwide economy number: 90 198 80 70 ekit hints on calling in the Spain: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• Use ‘Telefónica’ payphones where possible.

• Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

SWEDEN Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Stockholm Swedish Krone and Ore 8,986,000 449,964 sq.km (173,732 sq. miles) Language: Swedish, English, German.

Lappish is spoken by minority groups.

Ethnological Mix: over 80 per cent of the population are Swedes.

Average summer temperature is around 18°C (64°F). January and February, the coolest months, drop to -3°C (27°F).

GMT + 1 hr

Geography Sweden, bordered by Norway to the West and Finland to the East, is the fourth largest country in Europe. It is a land of great forests in the North and agricultural land in the South. Forests cover two-thirds of the country and there are some 96,000 lakes.

In the far North the summer lasts only about six weeks but the sun never sets; in mid-winter there is almost total darkness for six weeks.

Stockholm, the capital city on the West Coast, is constructed on a maze of islands. Ferry services run between the two halves of the city.

Places of interest in Stockholm Visit: the Royal Palace and stroll through the narrow alleys of Gamla Stan, past street musicians and past some of the city’s best cafe’s, restaurants and art galleries.

Discover: Kungsträdgården, the leafy park in the middle of town. An “alive” area with cafe’s lining it’s boundary, always an entertaining and enjoyable experience.

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Europe uncovered SWEDEN cont’d: Ferry: Across to Skansen, part museum and part theme-park, a Lap village, botanical garden and small zoo are on offer. Your chance to see a real, live moose Learn: about life in the Nordic region and the cultural heritage of it’s people - the Nordiska Museet features a special exhibit about the Sami people of the far north.

Shoot: some fantastic photographs of this amazing city built on water - Stockholm is truly blessed with some of the best scenery you’ll ever see!

Manners and customs Swedish food was made famous by the Smorgasbord - the Scandinavian cold table - a seemingly endless array of delicacies from smoked salmon and dozens of varieties of herring to smoked reindeer meat and honey. Midsummer is always celebrated maypoles, garlands, flower-decked houses, dancing and special midsummer dishes typify this popular festival. Shops are generally open weekdays between 9.00am and 6.00pm and on Saturdays from 9.00am until anywhere between 1.00 and 4.00pm. A 13% service charge is automatically added to restaurant bills.

Best buys Orrefors, Kosta and Boda - the famous crystal, stainless steel, silver, home furnishings and hand-knitted sweaters. ekit Toll Free access number: 0200 888 074 or 0207 94782 ekit economy number: Stockholm economy 08-5069 2159 ekit hints on calling in the Sweden: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

• Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

The Revolving Restaurant In The Luzern Area

6300 ft.

See Eiger, Moench, Jungfrau and 100 km of alpine panorama.

Vintage cable car from 1893.

Mount Stanserhorn Railway, Rondorama ® revolving restaurant, CH-6370 Stans/Luzern Fon +41 (0)41 618 80 40, info@stanserhorn.ch, www.stanserhorn.ch

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Europe uncovered SWITZERLAND Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference

Berne Francs and Centimes 7,450,000 41,288 sq.km (15,940 sq. miles) Language: German, French, Italian, Romanish (English spoken by most).

Ethnological Mix: 58 per cent Swiss German, 17 per cent Swiss French and 8 per cent Swiss Italian.

Varies with altitude. In the South mild and Mediterranean. North of the Alps - hot summers, cold winters.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography Switzerland is known as the crest of Europe with mountain peaks as high as 4570m, (15,000 ft) above sea level. With Italy to the South, France to the West, Germany to the North and Liechtenstein and Austria to the East, Switzerland is completely surrounded by land. It is divided naturally into three regions: the Jura Mountains in the North-West, the Alps in the South and the Central Swiss Plateau (Mittelland), with its fertile plains and rolling hills. Switzerland is scattered with several large lakes, the largest of which are Lake Geneva in the West and Lake Constance in the North-East. The mountains are criss-crossed with rivers and over 100 glaciers. Covered by the most intensive electric railway in Europe, over 5,472 km (3420 miles) long, Switzerland is the principle skiing centre of Europe.

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Europe uncovered SWITZERLAND cont’d: Places of interest in Lucerne Watches: Check out the enormous variety of Swiss precisionmade watches available in this market town dating back to the middle ages when traders from Italy would bring their goods north via the mountain passes.

Lake Lucerne: Walk along the banks of this stunning “translucent blue” lake and take advantage of the photographic opportunities with flocks of swans of snowy white and Mounts’ Rigi and Pilatus in the background.

Chocolate: Shop for Swiss chocolate - the closest thing to perfection when it comes to sweet treats. You’ll be astounded at the variety of flavours and fillings available.

Manners and customs Etiquette and social customs are very formal. Swiss Germans tend to be extremely hygienic and hard-working. Smoking during a meal is not polite. Tipping 12.5-15%. Stores are open from 8.00am to 12.15pm and 1.30pm to 6.30pm on weekdays except for Monday mornings when they are closed. Stores close at 4.00pm on Saturdays and all day on Sunday.

Best buys Watches, Lindt chocolate, music boxes, Swiss army knives.

Charles Bucher Excursions Guided tours on Lake Lucerne Tel. 041-410 20 55 • Fax 041-410 42 27

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Europe uncovered SWITZERLAND cont’d: ekit Toll Free access number: 0800 562-733 or 0800 837-798 ekit economy number: Zurich economy 091-261-1208 ekit hints on calling in the Switzerland: • When calling an economy access number you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the local telephone company. The Contiki phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

TURKEY Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time difference:

Ankara Lire 68,100,000 780,000 sq km (301,160 sq. miles) Language: Turkish. French and English in the cities but not in the rural areas. Ethnological Mix: 91 per cent Turks, 7 per cent Kurds, 1 per cent Arabs, 1 per cent Armenians.

Typical Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The swimming season becomes shorter the further North one goes. Average summer temperature 25°C (77°F) GMT + 2 hrs.

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Europe uncovered TURKEY cont’d: Geography European Turkey and Asian Turkey (the latter being over 99 per cent of the country) are separated by the Dardanelles, the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus. On the European side, the land is flat and fertile, while the majority of the Asian side consists of the rocky, arid Anatolian Plateau.

Places of interest in Istanbul Topkapi Palace: Explore this former residence of the sultans for more than three centuries; now Turkey’s finest museum. Of particular interest is the Harem which in days-gone-by held foreign women who were sold into the slavery of the Sultan.

Worth a look to gain insight into the past of this incredible country. (Closed Tuesdays).

Grand Bazaar: Visit this amazing “shopping Mecca”, a covered market of more than 4000 shops which sell everything from traditional spices and sweets to clothing and bags. An enormous variety of goods on sale. (Closed Sundays).

Santa Sophia: See this, the Church of the Divine Wisdom built in the 6th Century AD by the Emperor Justinian and features stunningly beautiful stained-glass windows and painstakingly intricate mosaics. No doubt you’ll see a lot of churches during your European tour, but this is well worth a visit! (Closed Mondays).

Turkish Baths: Indulge yourself in the unique experience of a traditional Turkish bath. Enter the steam room, lay on a warm marble slab and totally relax before having your muscles pounded, hair washed and face massaged. Simply the best!

Asia: Sail across the Marmara Strait to the Asian side of the city on one of the many boat trips that depart from the quays opposite the bazaar.

Manners and customs Hospitality plays an important role in the Turkish way of life.

Following religious laws of the Koran, the Turkish people are most gracious and generous hosts and all guests (‘misafir’) are treated in the best possible manner. Turks also make every effort to communicate, no matter what the linguistic barriers might be.

An important aspect of Turkish life is centred around the coffee house and the bath house. Even the smallest Turkish village has its coffee house as the social centre. In Turkish Baths, one sits wrapped in a towel on a large heated stone, perspiring while being rubbed down by a bath attendant. If the heat proves too much, one can go into a cooler room for a while.

Best buys Turkish Delight, embroidered silks, oriental carpets and jewellery. ekit Toll Free access number: 00800 151 0788 ekit hints on calling in the Turkey: • Payphones may require a coin deposit or use of a local phonecard to make a call.

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My notes

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My notes

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