Small Group Tours 2016

Small Group Tours 2016 Specialists in the Alternative for Over 40 Years

Since our first ever group tour to Albania in 1970 (where our male clients had to be clean shaven to enter the country and flared trousers were banned) Regent Holidays’ group tours have always been designed with a pioneering spirit and 2016 is no exception. In this collection you’ll find a brand new group tour to Papua New Guinea, one of the world’s last great frontiers, as well as cultural journeys through Russia’s Sayan Mountain range to the mysterious Republic of Tuva, and along the track less travelled on the BAM Railway. We are also celebrating 45 years of travel to Albania by launching a special one-off tour led by Bradt Guide Book author Gillian Gloyer.

Our small group tours are carefully designed by our team of destination experts here in Bristol to include elements which are more off-thebeaten-track, alternative or unusual than your run-of-the-mill tour. As we typically only run one – or in some instances two – departures per year, places are limited and can sell out quickly. Some of our group tours for 2016 have been created without a single room supplement. Please speak to a Regent Specialist to register your interest as early as possible.

To be the first to hear about new group tours or additional departure dates, sign up to our fortnightly newsletter at www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Andrea Godfrey General Manager

/RegentHolidays @Regent_Holidays 2

/rholidays regent@regentholidays.co.uk Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

3 www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 020 7666 1244

Albania & the Balkans

4 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

This exclusive Regent tour combines the historic cities and stunning landscapes of Albania with forays into Kosovo and Macedonia to visit the unmissable Balkan treasures of Prizren and Lake Ohrid. Staying in accommodation from boutique hotels to mountain resorts, travel with a local guide discovering Albania’s national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Day 1 Fly to Tirana | Fly to Tirana and transfer to historic Kruja. (D) Day 2 Kruja to Shkodra | Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kruja including the restored castle, citadel and the Skanderbeg Museum. Continue to Shkodra to visit the Marubi Museum and imposing Rozafa Castle. Spend 2 nights in Shkodra. (B,L) Day 3 Theth National Park | Embark on an excursion to Theth National Park in the Albanian Alps, stopping en route at Edith Durham’s memorial. Enjoy a picnic lunch and walking tour including the Grunasi Canyon. (B,L,D) Day 4 Shkodra to Prizren | Take the Komani ferry, sailing along the lake past breathtaking mountain scenery.

Cross into Kosovo and visit Decani Monastery, the largest medieval church in the Balkans. Continue to Prizren. (B,L) Day 5 Prizren to Tirana | Embark on a walking tour of the pretty Ottoman

town of Prizren and perhaps shop for the silver filigree that the town is famous for producing. Cross back into Albania for two nights in Tirana. (B,D) Day 6 Tirana | Enjoy a city tour of Albania’s capital. Begin in the lesser known suburbs before discovering the National Museum, National Martyrs’ Cemetery, National Art Gallery and Et’hem Beg Mosque. (B,L) Day 7 Tirana to Ohrid | Cross into Macedonia via Elbasan to explore the lakeside town of Ohrid. Enjoy a walking tour before heading towards the Church of St Jovan at Kaneo, beautifully situated on the cliffs above the lake. (B,D) Day 8 Ohrid to Korce | Visit the picturesque Monastery of Sveti Naum en route back to Albania. Take a walking tour of Korce, known as the country’s centre of culture and arts. Visit the Orthodox Cathedral, Old Bazaar and Museum of Medieval Arts. (B,L) Day 9 Korce to Gjirokaster | Travel through the heart of the Vjosa Valley to the UNESCO city of Gjirokaster for a two night stay. See imposing mountains rising up alongside green meadows covered in wild flowers. (B,L) Day 10 Gjirokaster & surrounds | Take an excursion to the ruins of ancient Antigonea. Continue to one of Albania’s oldest churches, the Labova of the Cross, before returning to Gjirokaster to wander the cobbled streets, admire the Ottoman-style tower houses and visit the medieval castle. (B,L)

Day 11 Gjirokaster to Saranda | Explore Butrint, a well-preserved archaeological site frequented by Roman aristocrats. Continue to Saranda on the beautiful Ionian coast and visit Lekursi Castle before dinner at a seaside restaurant. (B,D) Day 12 Saranda to Vlora | Travel along the Albanian Riviera and admire views of the stunning Ionian coastline. Visit the Fortress of Ali Pasha Tepelena before continuing on to the port town of Vlora for a tour of Independence Square and Muradie Mosque. (B,L) Day 13 Vlora to Berat | Visit the archaeological site of Apollonia, a vital Roman stronghold. Stop at the Cobo winery for a tasting before continuing to Berat - the town of a thousand windows - renowned for its large number of Byzantine Orthodox churches. (B,L) Day 14 Berat | Enjoy a walking tour of both the lower and upper quarters of the fortress of Berat. In the afternoon meet a famous Albanian writer; an expert in the arts and literature. (B,D) Day 15 Tirana to UK | Depart for Durres, Albania’s second largest city.

Visit the Roman amphitheatre and Byzantine forum before transferring to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B,L) Departures

10 May & 13 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1680 per person £195

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Balkans Specialist on 0117 280 0121

5

Albania 45th Anniversary Tour

6 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

To celebrate 45 years since our first tour to Albania we have put together a Regent exclusive one-off anniversary tour. Travel with Gillian Gloyer – author of the Albania Bradt guide – and explore Albania’s past and present. Wander through ancient archaeological sites, explore the thriving capital of Tirana and discover villages where time seems to have stood still.

Day 1 Fly to Tirana | Fly to Tirana and transfer to Kruja. (D) Day 2 Kruja to Shkodra | Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kruja including the restored castle, Citadel and the Skanderbeg Museum. Continue to Shkodra to visit the Marubi Museum, imposing Rozafa Castle and Leaden Mosque. (B,L) Day 3 Shkodra to Valbona | Visit Marubi Museum and transfer to Koman. Take the Komani ferry, sailing along the lake past breathtaking mountain scenery.

Arrive in Fierza and continue to explore the Valbona Valley in the heart of the Albanian Alps. The village of Valbona is tucked underneath Mount Jerzeca, the highest mountain in Albania. (B,D) Day 4 Valbona to Tirana | Explore Valbona before crossing the border into Kosovo to the charming town of Prizren for a sightseeing tour. Visit the Museum of Prizren League, Sinia Pasha Mosque and Helveti Tekke. Continue to Tirana

with a stop en-route in Rubik to visit the 13th Century Church which was once a Benedictine Abbey. (B,D) Day 5 Tirana | Take a tour of Tirana including the National Museum, National Art Gallery and the recently opened Bunk’Art exhibition housed in Enver Hoxa’s former underground nuclear bunker, now transformed into a museum and art space. (B,D) Day 6 Tirana to Korce | Travel east to the town of Korce. Stop en-route at the Church of St Nicholas in Shelcan.

Continue on to the Illyrian Royal Tombs at Secla. On arrival in Korce begin a tour of the town. Visit the National Education Museum and the National Museum of Medieval Arts. (B,L,D) Day 7 Korce to Gjirokaster | Depart for the UNESCO listed town of Gjirokaster. Stop en route to visit the Kamenica Tumulus where the remains of 420 humans have been excavated.

Stop in the village of Kosine before driving through the Vjosa River Valley to Gjirokaster. (B,D) Day 8 Gjirokaster | Visit the ruins of Ancient Antigonea. Continue to one of Albania’s oldest churches, the Labova of the Cross, before returning to Gjirokaster to wander the cobbled streets, admire the Ottoman-style tower houses and visit the medieval castle. (B,L) Day 9 Gjirokaster to Saranda | Drive towards Butrint, a UNESCO listed archaeological site. Stop at the Blue Eye Springs and continue along the Bistrica River to reach the Monastery

of Mesopotamia. Enjoy a guided tour of Butrint. Wander through archaeological remains and explore the National Park of Butrint. (B,L) Day 10 Saranda to Vlore | Travel along the Albanian Riviera and admire the stunning Ionian coastline. Stop at Porto Palermo bay and visit the castle of Porto Palermo. Drive to Llogara National Park and continue to the port town of Vlore to visit Independence Square where the Declaration of Independence was declared in 1912. (B,L) Day 11 Vlore to Berat | Visit the archaeological site of Apollonia, a vital Roman stronghold. Stop at the Cobo winery for a tasting before continuing to the UNESCO listed town of Berat. Visit the iconographic museum and the Citadel and wander past the large windowed houses in Berat Old Town. (B,D) Day 12 Durres to UK | Visit the medieval centre of Berat and walk through the historical quarters of Mangalem and Gorica. Drive to Durres and visit the ancient city walls, the Roman amphitheatre and the archaeological museum of the city.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight. (B,L)

Departures

19 Jun 2016

Group size

Min 15, Max 24

Prices from Single supp

£1695 per person £190

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Balkans Specialist on 0117 280 0121

7

Highlights of Serbia & Montenegro

8 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Our highlights tour brings together the best of Serbia’s captivating national treasures and the striking natural wonders of Montenegro. Travel through craggy mountain landscapes dotted with glassy lakes down to the stunning beaches of the Adriatic, discovering the history of medieval monasteries and sampling the products of local vineyards en route.

Day 1 Fly to Belgrade | Fly to Belgrade.

Enjoy a welcome dinner in the historic Skadarlija district for your first taste of Serbia. (D) Day 2 Belgrade to Arilje | Embark on a city tour experiencing the sights of Belgrade, including visits to the Parliament, Saint Sava Orthodox Cathedral and Kalemegdan fortress.

Drive through the gentle slopes of central Serbia to Arilje for a rural, homemade lunch, tour Saint Achilles Church and sample the region’s famous raspberry cake. (B,L) Day 3 Arilje to Novi Pazar | Drive through the Dinaric Alps, through the forests and lakes of the beautiful UNESCO-listed Studenica-Golija Biosphere Reserve to the famous Studenica Monastery Complex.

Continue to the Ottoman town of Novi Pazar, where you’ll spend one night, and explore the SS Peter and Paul Church and explore the Sopocani Monastery, built in 1260 and housing

some of the finest Byzantine Frescoes in Europe. (B,D) Day 4 Novi Pazar to Kolasin | Drive to Biogradska Gora National Park for a walk around glacial lakes dotted amongst one of Europe’s few remaining virgin forests and continue to the nearby mountain town of Kolasin. (B,D) Day 5 Kolasin to Perast | Arrive in Cetinje, Montenegro’s old royal capital from the 15th century and unearth religious treasures of Cetinje Monastery and King Nicola’s Museum.

Enjoy a delicious tasting of smoked ham and cheese in the village of Njegusi en route to Perast. (B,L) Day 6 Kotor Bay | Sightsee around the idyllic, UNESCO protected town of Kotor, visiting The St Typhon Cathedral, historic squares, palaces and the Maritime Museum. In the afternoon, tour the old terracottaroofed town, Perast, and take boat ride across the fjord-like bay to Our Lady of the Rocks. (B,D) Day 7 Perast and Durmitor National Park | Visit the iconic Ostrog Monastery, a spectacular, gleaming white building carved into the rugged cliffs, on your way to the Durmitor National Park for striking scenery and sweeping views across glacier-carved valleys. (B,D) Day 8 Durmitor National Park to Zlatar | Enjoy a morning walk around the Black Lake of the Durmitor National Park and tour the St Trinity Monastery and the Balkans’ most beautiful Mosque, the Husein Pasha. Make your

way back to Serbia via the Jabuka border crossing to visit the White Angel Fresco. (B,D) Day 9 Zlatibor | Take a peek into the nests of majestic Griffon Vultures at the Uvac Special Nature Reserve after a leisurely boat trip, when you’ll meander down the Uvac River in the shadows of the outstanding Zlatar Mountain.

Sample the famous Zlatar cheese at a local producer and let a local brass orchestra serenade you. (B,L,D) Day 10 Zlatibor Region | Board the Sargan train for an unforgettable journey, taking in the breathtaking scenery of Western Serbia as you traverse the striking mountain range spanning the Tara National Park.

Continue to Staro Selo Sirogojno Open Air Museum to experience life in 19th century Serbia. (B,L,D) Day 11 Zlatibor to Belgrade | Make your way back to Belgrade. Learn about traditional craft techniques at a pottery making demonstration in Zlakusa village, tour the Royal Mausoleum in Oplenac, complete with wine tasting and brunch. Enjoy a farewell dinner with live music. (B,L,D) Day 12 Belgrade to UK | Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B) Departure

18 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1645 per person £340

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Balkans Specialist on 0117 280 0121

9

Bosnia in Depth

10 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Combine the stunning landscapes of this Balkan gem with a journey through history from the 4th century BC to the modern day. Pay respects at the WWII Sutjeska battlefield, soak up Sarajevo’s captivating atmosphere, discover the history behind Mostar’s famous bridge and travel into the Bjelasnica Mountains to experience local life in Bosnia’s most isolated village.

Day 1 Fly to Dubrovnik | Fly to Dubrovnik and transfer to the pretty town of Trebinje in BosniaHerzegovina for a welcome dinner. An 18th century trading centre, the town is famed for its enormous old mills. (D) Day 2 Trebinje to Sarajevo | Visit Sutjeska National Park, home of the highest mountain peak in the country and site of the WWII Battle of Sutjeska – one of the toughest battles fought by the Yugoslav partisans. Visit the Tito WWII Heritage Monument before travelling to Sarajevo for three nights in the nation’s capital. (B,L,D) Day 3 Sarajevo | Explore Bosnia’s multi-cultural capital on a morning sightseeing tour. Visit the Museum of Sarajevo, built on the site of the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, as well as the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum which offers an intriguing insight into life during the Bosnian conflict. In the afternoon travel to Vrelo Bosne, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Stroll past bubbling streams and waterfalls and discover the AustroHungarian buildings, which hint at the country’s opulent past. (B,L) Day 4 Sarajevo to Lukomir | Journey into the Bjelasnica Mountains to Lukomir, Bosnia’s highest and most isolated village, where the inhabitants still wear traditional costume. For those who wish, take a breathtaking walk along the Rakitnica Canyon, with alpine green hills on one side and the deep craggy expanse of the canyon on the other. Return to Sarajevo and enjoy free time to explore at leisure. (B,L) Day 5 Sarajevo to Jajce | Step back in time in the tiny town of Kraljeva Sutjeska. Explore the Franciscan church and monastery with its rich library and stop at one of the oldest mosques in Bosnia. Drive to Travnik, picturesquely located in the Lavsa river valley. Former capital of the Ottoman Empire, this historic town was once known as the European Istanbul. Continue to Jajce for an overnight stay. (B,L,D) Day 6 Jajce to Mostar | Discover the highlights of Jajce on a sightseeing tour including the beautiful waterfall and ruins of St. Luke’s Church.

Continue to the village of Prusac, the largest Muslim gathering site in Europe, where highlights include the Handanija Mosque and medieval castle of Biograd, situated on a rock overlooking the valley. After lunch depart for Mostar for three nights.

(B,L)

Day 7 Mostar | Embark on a guided city tour of Herzegovina’s cultural capital. View the famous bridge and visit a farmers’ co-operative to sample delicious local delicacies such as prosciutto and livno cheese. In the afternoon travel to Blagaj, a beautiful village at the source of the River Buna, to discover the impressive tekke, a 15th century Dervish monastery at the foot of a 200 metre cliff. (B,L) Day 8 Herzegovina | Visit the old Ottoman town of Pocitelj and wander its narrow lanes. Continue to Mogorjelo, the ruins of a Roman villa rustica, and stop at the Herceg Ethno Village to gain an insight into traditional ways of life. See the impressive 120-metre-wide Kravice waterfalls, before returning to Mostar. (B,L) Day 9 Mostar to Dubrovnik | Explore Radimlja, a stećak necropolis, and Vjetrenica Cave, famed for its cave drawings estimated to be over 10,000 years old. Finally, discover the medieval Orthodox monastery of Zavala, built into the rock face, with its interior covered in 17th century frescoes.

Continue to Dubrovnik for the final night. (B,L) Day 10 Dubrovnik to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight to the UK. (B) Departure

5 Jun 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1485 per person £155

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Balkans Specialist on 0117 280 0121

11

Highlights of Macedonia & Kosovo

12 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

With a history spanning the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Yugoslav empires, Macedonia and Kosovo offer a fascinating architectural heritage and mix of cultures with Slavic, Albanian, Turkish and Mediterranean influences in abundance. On this tour, time is given to explore the archaeological sites of Heraclea and Stobi, as well as the main cities of Skopje, Prishtina, Prizren, Bitola and scenic lakeside town of Ohrid.

Day 1 Fly to Skopje | Fly to Skopje, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy an introductory walking tour of Skopje including the bazaar, the Grand Fountain of Alexander the Great, the new buildings from the regenerative Skopje 2014 project and the Kale Fortress. (D) Day 2 Skopje | Embark on a full day sightseeing tour of Skopje including the monument and memorial house of Mother Teresa and the Museum of the City of Skopje – housed in a railway station destroyed by an earthquake in 1963. Continue to the mountain village of Gorno Nerezi and visit the Sverti Pantelejmon and marvel at its frescoes.

Visit the ancient temples and churches of Matka Canyon before taking an optional boat ride through the canyon to one of the deepest underwater caves in the world – Vrelo Cave. (B,L)

Day 3 Skopje to Peja | Drive into Kosovo and on to the capital, Prishtina.

En route visit the Garacanica Monastery, a Serbian Orthodox Church and a triumph of Byzantine architecture. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Prishtina including the Museum of Kosovo, Careshi Mosque and the Emin Gjiku Ethnographic Museum. Continue on to Peja via the Memorial to the Battle of Kosovo. (B,L,D) Day 4 Peja to Prizren | Visit the UNESCO listed Decani Monastery before driving to Prizren via the Stonecastle Winery to sample some Kosovan wines. (B,L) Day 5 Prizren | Embark on a morning walking tour of Prizren including the attractive Ottoman Old Town, the Hammam, the Museum of Prizren League, the Helveti Tekke, Sinan Pasha Mosque and the Church of Our Lady of Ljevis. The afternoon is free to explore at leisure. (B,L) Day 6 Prizren to Ohrid | Travel back into Kosovo via the Mavrovo National Park.

Visit the monastery of St. John Bigorski before lunch in a traditional restaurant in the village of Janche. Continue on to beautiful Ohrid. (B,L,D) Day 7 Ohrid | Explore Ohrid, one of the oldest settlements in Europe.

Visit the churches of St. Sophia and St. Clement as well as the Church of St. John at Kaneo, located on a small peninsula jutting out into Lake Ohrid.

Take a boat ride across the lake and enjoy a free afternoon exploring this peaceful town. (B,L,D)

Day 8 Ohrid region | Spend the day touring Lake Ohrid. Visit the Bronze Age stilt village or the ‘Bay of Bones’and the St. Naum Monastery – one of the most beautiful monasteries in Macedonia and the source of Lake Ohrid’s water.

Cross over to Pogradec on the Albanian side of the lake before heading to the quieter lakeside town of Struga. (B,L) Day 9 Ohrid to Bitola | Drive to Bitola stopping en-route at the beautiful Galicica National Park and the 12th Century Church of St George in the village of Kurbinovo. On arrival in Bitola, enjoy a tour of the city. (B,L) Day 10 Bitola to Skopje | Visit Heraclea Lyncestis and continue to the wine region of Macedonia and visit the Demir Kapija. Visit the Roman city of Stobi, before departing for Skopje. (B,L) Day 11 Skopje region | Explore Macedonia’s northeast region including the Megalithic Observatory in Kokino and the Valley of the Stone Dolls, formed from the weathering of porous volcanic rock. Continue onto the small town of Kratovo, situated inside an ancient, burnt out volcanic crater before returning to Skopje for a farewell dinner. (B,D) Day 12 Skopje to UK | Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B) Departure

15 May 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1520 per person £155

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Balkans Specialist on 0117 280 0121

13

Highlights of Slovenia

14 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Using Ljubljana – one of Europe’s greenest cities – as a base, embark on various day trips to uncover the charm of the north, east, south and west of Slovenia .

Discover stunning castles carved into the landscape, emeraldgreen lakes amongst vast forests, quaint mountain towns and a beautiful Adriatic coastline inspired by Venice.

Day 1 Fly to Ljubljana | Fly to Slovenia’s small but beautiful capital, Ljubljana, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 Ljubljana | Spend the morning touring Slovenia’s small yet culturally packed capital city. Walk through the baroque old town and marvel at the architecture designed by Joze Plecnik including the iconic Triple Bridge, the lively fruit, vegetable and flower market and the embankments of Ljubljana River. Cross the Dragon Bridge, an art Nouveau masterpiece each end adorned with a dragon – the symbol of Ljubljana, and walk to Presernov Trg Square before taking the 70m-long funicular railway up to Ljubljana Castle built in 1511. The afternoon is free to explore the city at leisure. (B,L,D) Day 3 Ljubljana to Ptuj | Drive east to the historical gem, Ptuj with a stop en route in the pretty village of Trojane for a traditional snack of krof.

Explore Ptuj castle including the Ptuj

Regional Museum and the red marble tombstone of Frederick IX, the last lord of Ptuj who died in 1948. Wander through the beautiful castle chambers displaying period furniture, tapestries and paintings. View collections of 500 weapons and fascinating musical instruments before heading outside for stunning views of Ptuj and the Drava River. Enjoy wine tasting in the Jeruzalem area before making your way back to Ljubljana. (B,L,D) Day 4 Ljubljana to Piran | Enjoy a full day excursion exploring the southwest of Slovenia. Drive to Postojna and head underground to explore the Postojna Cave system – a series of caverns, halls and passages some 20.6km long and two million years old. From here, take a short drive to Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world built into a cliff 123m high then continue to Piran. This beautiful coastal town is one of the best preserved historical towns on the Adriatic jam packed with Venetian Gothic architecture. (B,L,D) Day 5 Ljubljana to Notranjska Regional Park | Head south for a full day excursion to Notranjska Regional Park.

Visit Lake Cerknica, also known as the disappearing lake, one of Slovenia’s most unusual natural phenomena.

Since ancient times this periodic lake has baffled and perplexed people, appearing and disappearing with the seasons. Visit Lake Cerknica museum before a short drive to the recently restored 16th century Snežnik Castle.

Its four floors are richly decorated

with period furniture and portraits of the Schönburg-Waldenburg family, who bought the castle in 1853 to use as a summer residence. Continue on to Rakov Skocjan, a 6km-long gorge centrally located in Notranjska Regional Park. (B,L,D) Day 6 Ljubljana to Kobarid | Spend the day exploring Slovenia’s midwest region. Visit the UNESCO listed Antonijev rov mercury mine in Idrija. From Idrija drive along the river Idrija and river Soˇca to reach the picturesque town of Kobarid nestled in between mountain peaks. Visit the WWI Museum and learn about Kobarid’s turbulent history. (B,L,D) Day 7 Ljubljana to Lake Bled | Drive to the beautiful town of Bled at the foothills of the Julian Alps in Slovenia’s northwest. Visit Bled Castle, a medieval castle perched on a steep cliff more than 100m above Lake Bled before cruising to Bled Island on a hand propelled gondola (pletna) to explore the baroque Church of the Assumption that dates back to the 17th century. Leave Bled and take a short transfer to Mt Vogel for a cable car ride up to the top (1,535m) for a stunning view. (B,L,D) Day 8 Ljubljana to UK | Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. Departure

27 Aug 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1130 per person £245

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Balkans Specialist on 0117 280 0121

15

Faroe Islands in Depth

16 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Hidden between Iceland and Norway in the heart of the North Atlantic’s swift current are the Faroe Islands, the world’s most appealing island destination as voted for by a panel of experts from National Geographic Traveller magazine.

These remote islands are jampacked with stunning scenery, walking trails and a unique architectural heritage. Providing the perfect nesting environment for migrating birds, the cliffs on the northern and western coasts act like a magnet in the summer months to puffins, storm petrels, gannets and guillemots. Visit the capital, Tórshavn, a pretty harbour town with a labyrinth of cobbled streets and grass-roofed cottages, before exploring the surrounding islands to discover the breathtakingly rugged landscapes, quirky heritage sites, pretty villages and abundant birdlife of this unique and fascinating archipelago.

Day 1 Fly to Vágar | Arrive at Vágar airport located on this westerly island, home to the country’s two largest lakes, before transferring to the capital.

Day 2 Sandoy | Travel by ferry to Sandoy and experience traditional Faroese lifestyle on this unspoilt island. Enjoy lunch in a remote cottage and visit the art gallery in Sandur which is home to the largest art collection in the Faroe Islands. Return to Torshavn and dine at leisure on the last night in the capital. (B,L,D) Day 3 Tórshavn to Suðuroy | Board the modern Smyril Line ferry at Tórshavn harbour and sail to Suðuroy. Visit Akraberg, the southernmost point in the Faroe Islands, and stroll to the lighthouse which was built in 1909.

In the evening dine in Seglloftið, a cultural centre and restaurant in Tvøroyri, and sample Faroese beer.

(B,L,D)

Day 4 Suðuroy to Gjógv | Take a boat trip to Vestmanna where countless puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes and razorbills nest in the 1,500 feet high vertical cliffs in the summer months.

Travel along the coast of Streymoy to the island of Eysturoy. Pass the famous rock formations, known as the Giant and the Witch and admire the highest mountain in the country, Slættarartindur. Continue to the pretty village of Gjógv. (B,L,D) Day 5 Norðoyggjar | From Leirvík, drive through the subsea tunnel decorated

by Faroese artist Tróndur Patursson, to the island of Borðoy. Visit the Christian Church before continuing on to Kunoy, an island in the north east, to enjoy a stroll through the small forest. Travel back to Gjógv, stopping en route at the

new church in Gøta – also decorated by the artist Tróndur Patursson. (B,L,D) Day 6 Gjógv to Streymoy | Visit the pretty village of Saksun on the island of Streymoy. Surrounded by high mountains, Saksun lies at the bottom of what used to be an inlet of the sea and is one of the most distinctive villages in the Faroe Islands. Visit the old farmhouse, Dúvugarðar, before heading back to Tórshavn via the mountain road. (B,L) Day 7 Tórshavn | Located on the east coast of Streymoy, Torshavn (meaning Thor’s Harbour, named after the god of thunder and lightning in Norse mythology) was founded in the 10th century and is considered to be one of the oldest capitals in Northern Europe.

Enjoy a guided walking tour around the lanes and narrow passages of the capital before visiting the Faroese Museum of History and the Nordic House. Continue to Kirkjubøur and discover the ruins of Magnus Cathedral hidden behind the 12th century Saint Olav’s Church. Enjoy a traditional homemade Faroese dinner in fantastic historic surroundings. (B,L,D) Day 8 Tórshavn to UK | Transfer to Vágar airport for the flight back to the UK. (B) Departure

4 Jul 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 15

Prices from Single supp

£2120 per person

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Faroe Islands Specialist on 0117 280 0122

17

Explore the Azores

18 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

Discover the highlights of this incredible archipelago on our brand new group tour. Situated in the North Atlantic, over 1,800km from mainland Portugal, the nine islands of the Azores offer countless opportunities to explore landscapes designed by volcanic activity. See lakes formed in crater valleys, discover deep caverns created by lava flows and feel the healing benefit of geothermal hot springs.

Day 1 Fly to São Miguel Island | Fly, via Lisbon, to São Miguel Island, check in to the hotel and in the evening enjoy a welcome meal at a local restaurant. (D) Day 2 São Miguel Island | Enjoy a full day tour of the Green Island. Visit Vila Franca do Campo, former capital of the Island. Continue to the valley of Furnas, an extraordinary area of volcanic activity with steaming fumaroles and more than 20 thermal springs. After lunch visit the Botanical Gardens where it is possible to swim in the natural hot water swimming pool.

Cross to the north coast and stop at a tea plantation before discovering Lagoa do Fogo - the Fire Lake - located in the interior crater of an extinct volcano. (B,L) Day 3 São Miguel Island | Continue the exploration of São Miguel’s natural wonders. Travel to the valley

of Sete Cidades where two beautiful lakes can be found at the centre of a volcanic crater. Take a stroll on the lake shore before travelling north to the Ethnographic Museum in Capelas, and on to Fajã de Baixo to learn about the hothouse pineapple plantation. (B,L) Day 4 Terceira Island | Take a short flight to Terceira Island for a full day tour. Travel to Praia da Vitória and stop for a short walk in the island’s second city. Explore the Algar do Carvão – an ancient lava tube – before visiting the wine-growing area of Biscoitos where natural swimming pools have been formed by the volcanic rock. End the day in historic Angra do Heroismo. (B,L) Day 5 Angra do Heroísmo | Enjoy a walking tour of the UNESCO listed Angra do Heroísmo. Visit the main church – Se Catedral and the City Museum before a stroll through the shopping district and the botanical garden. End the day tasting delicious local calorie-laden pastries. (B) Day 6 Terceira to Pico Island | Transfer to the airport for a short flight to the second largest island in the Azores archipelago – Pico. Transfer to the Hotel Caravelas in the tiny capital of Madalena. Drive to the picturesque fishing village of Lajes do Pico for a talk on marine conservation before embarking on a whale watching boat tour. More than 20 species of cetaceans inhabit the waters surrounding Pico Island or pass by along their migratory routes. (B)

Day 7 Pico Island | Travel through the island’s many vineyards to the village of Cachorro to try some of the local produce such as blackberry liquor or honey rum. Continue to Sao Roque, travelling through a spectacular mountain landscape, and visit the old whale factory, a poignant reminder of the country’s whaling history, and on to the village of Lajes to visit the Whalers museum. Return to Madalena for an overnight stay. (B,L) Day 8 Pico Island to Faial Island | Take a boat transfer to the quaint island of Faial, and arrive in Horta harbour.

The rest of the day is free to explore at leisure. Perhaps visit St Saviour’s Mother Church or simply watch the world go by at the busy marina. (B,L) Day 9 Faial Island | Visit Capelinhos, the site of the Azores’ last volcanic eruption in 1957, which created the area’s unique landscape. In the afternoon visit the Caldeira nature reserve, a 2 kilometre wide and 400 metre deep volcanic cone which is now home to rare endemic flora species. (B,L) Day 10 Faial Island to UK | Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK via Lisbon. (B)

Departure

11 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1590 per person £380

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to an Azores Specialist on 0117 280 0121

19

Halloween in Transylvania

20 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Delve into the history surrounding Romania’s most infamous historical figure, Vlad the Impaler or as he is more commonly known Count Dracula on this 6-day tour of Transylvania. Discover Sibiu’s Evangelic Cathedral where Vlad’s son was buried after his assassination, explore the town of Medias where he was kept prisoner by the Hungarian king, enjoy a walking tour of the fabulously preserved town of Sighisoara where he was born and of course, visit dramatic Bran Castle, made famous by Bram Stoker’s novel as the residence of the vampire count.

Day 1 Fly to Bucharest | Fly to Bucharest and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay. Embark on a city tour of Bucharest before enjoying a welcome dinner at the ornate Caru’ cu Bere Restaurant, one of the most famous restaurants in Bucharest. (D) Day 2 Bucharest to Sibiu | This morning, travel to Targoviste, the former royal capital of Wallachia from 1418 until 1659. The ruins of the former royal court remain the town’s leading attraction and Vlad Tepes (Dracula) lived here for 7 years as the ruler of Wallachia and is said to have committed many atrocities here. Travel to Curtea de Arges, a former capital

of Wallachia during the 14th century and visit the ruins of the Old Princely Court, built by Vlad’s ancestors.

Journey through the beautiful Olt Valley to Sibiu, once the richest town in Transylvania, and stop at Cozia Monastery built in the 14th century by Dracula’s grandfather, Prince Mircea the Old. (B) Day 3 Sibiu to Sighisoara | Explore the city of Sibiu and see the huge gothic Evangelic Cathedral, where Vlad’s son, Mihnea, was buried after his assassination just outside the church. Continue to Medias, the town where Vlad was kept prisoner by the Hungarian king Mathias Corvinus and on to the Saxon village of Biertan with its fortress church that is one of Romania’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the afternoon arrive in the medieval walled city of Sighisoara, where a walking tour will reveal the famous Clock Tower Museum, The Armour Room, The Torture Room and the house where Vlad the Impaler was born in 1431. On the night of Halloween dine in the house, where Dracula was born, now conveniently a restaurant. (B, D) Day 4 Sighisoara to Brasov | In the morning journey to Brasov. Saxon settlers founded this fairy-tale town in the 12th century and it still boasts medieval old stone walls, imposing watch towers and orange-tiled roofs.

A highlight of the tour is Bran Castle, perched on a bluff not far from Brasov.

This former fortress on the border of

Transylvania and Wallachia is said to have been Bram Stoker’s inspiration for the residence of the vampire count in his famous novel. (B) Day 5 Brasov to Bucharest | This morning, uncover the history of this pretty town with its turrets and maze of cobbled streets. The highlight of the city tour is a visit to the Black Church, the largest gothic style church in south-eastern Europe and so called because of a fire in 1689 which blackened its outer walls. Stop

by Azuga and visit the famous wine cellars built in 1892 by the Rhein family, who supplied the Romanian Royal Court between the two world wars with its delicious sparkling wines.

Here, enjoy a lunch with wine-tasting.

In the afternoon continue to Sinaia, a beautiful mountain resort known as “The Pearl of Carpathians” and explore Peles Castle, former summer residence of King Carol the 1st. The final stop of the tour is rather appropriately said to be the burial place of Vlad the Impaler at Snagov Monastery. Enjoy a spooky farewell dinner at the Count Dracula Club in Bucharest. (B,L,D) Day 6 Fly to the UK | Free morning before transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B) Departure

29 Oct 2016

Group size

Min 8, Max 14

Prices from Single supp

£870 per person £135

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Romania Specialist on 0117 280 0121

21

Undiscovered Moldova

22 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Based in Moldova’s capital, Chisinau, discover the highlights and history of this tiny country. Explore the remarkable Orheiul Vechi cave monastery, spend a day in the breakaway communist republic of Transdniestr and taste Moldova’s finest wines – a country once known as the vineyard of the Soviet Union.

On our October tour soak up the cheery atmosphere at the annual Wine Festival in Chisinau. New for 2016, stay in the newly opened luxury Radisson Blu Chisinau.

Day 1 Fly to Chisinau | Fly to Chisinau and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a typical Moldovan restaurant. (D) Day 2 Chisinau | Embark on a walking tour of Moldova’s capital. Discover the shops and restaurants lining Chisinau’s main street, stop at Central Cathedral, admire the Parliament building and spend time in Stefan cel Mare Park, where granite sculptures of Romanian literary figures can be found along the Alley of Classics. In the afternoon visit Capriana Monastery. Our October tour coincides with the annual Wine Festival and includes wine tasting at some of the Moldovan winery stands. Soak up the festival atmosphere which includes traditional music and dance. (B,L)

Day 3 Causeni & Purcari Winery | Travel to Causeni to visit a wonderfully preserved church from the TatarMongolia era of the 15th century.

Continue to Purcari Winery – the oldest wine estate in Moldova.

Established in 1827, Purcari Winery is located in the southwest of Moldova where the soil and climate provide the perfect environment for the production of red wines. Enjoy a tour of the cellars followed by a wine tasting. (B,L) Day 4 Cricova, Tipova & Orheiul Vechi | Enjoy an excursion to Cricova Wine Cellars, one of Moldova’s most popular wineries, housing a huge collection of exclusive wines. Travel north to visit Tipova, one of the oldest cave monasteries in the country, before continuing to one of Moldova’s most famous and impressive sights – Orheiul Vechi. This unique cave monastery, created by Orthodox monks in the 13th century, is carved into a limestone cliff in this remote location. Visit a museum showing the traditional life of Moldovan farmers in the 19th century. (B,L) Day 5 Soroco, Pokrovka & Rudi | Travel to the city of Soroca, located on the Nistru River. Visit the medieval fortress which played a key role in defending the country from the Turks, and discover the Candle of Gratitude monument which was built to commemorate those who have created and preserved the national culture of Moldova. Explore the traditional village of Pokrovka before

a short excursion to Rudi Nunnery and Kalarashevka Monastery. (B,L) Day 6 Gagauzia | Drive to the south of the country and explore the Gagauzia region, an area of three towns and more than 20 villages scattered throughout the three districts of Comrat, Cedar-Linga and Vulcanesti.

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the capital Gaguzia-Comrat, visit the National Gagauz History and Ethnographic Museum and after lunch, visit a stud farm in Ceadir-Lunga where thoroughbred racehorses are bred. (B,L) Day 7 Transdniestr | Transdniestr, a self proclaimed independent republic with its own currency, police force and border guards. Located 40 miles southeast of Chisinau in the Nistru Valley, Tiraspol is considered to be a living museum of Soviet culture.

With a population of 200,000, the city has its share of Lenin statues and monuments such as a T-34 tank on a pedestal. Whilst here, tour the Historical Museum and visit the Kvint brandy factory to sample some high quality cognac before embarking upon a sightseeing tour of Tiraspol. Return to Chisinau in the evening. (B,L,D) Day 8 Chisinau to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B) Departures

18 Jun & 1 Oct 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1435 per person £199

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Moldova Specialist on 0117 280 0121

23

Kiev & Chernobyl

Regent Holidays will donate ÂŁ25 for every person booked on this tour to Chernobyl Heart, a charity initiative aimed at improving the lives of the children affected by the disaster.

For more information visit www.chernobylheart.org.uk

Despite its time in the headlines, Ukraine remains one of Regent’s favourite destinations, and this unique group tour offers a fascinating insight into the country’s past and present.

Compare the opulence of Kiev’s golden-domed cathedrals with the stark remains of Chernobyl, a place ever synonymous with the massive nuclear disaster that rocked the Soviet Union and the world in 1986. Spend two days touring inside the “Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant Exclusion Zone,” including one night in Chernobyl itself, staying in a small hotel built for scientific advisors, for an unparalleled insight into one of the world’s worst nuclear disasters.

Day 1 Fly to Kiev | Arrive in Ukraine’s capital, check in to the hotel for two nights and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 2 Kiev | Enjoy a full day city tour of Kiev including Kreschatyk – the capital’s main street, the Golden Gates, St. Sophia’s Cathedral, St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery and the Chernobyl Museum. After lunch explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kyevo-Pecherska Lavra (Cave Monastery) with its impressive cluster of golden domes overlooking the Dnipro River, before visiting the

Great Patriotic War Museum. ‘The Ukrainian State Museum of the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945’ was established in commemoration of the 30th anniversary of liberation from the Nazi invaders, and is now the country’s leading research and educational centre of military history, housing more than 300,000 exhibits. Spend the evening at leisure. (B,L) Day 3 Kiev to Chernobyl | Depart Kiev and travel around 70 miles to Chernobyl. Once through the control checkpoint at the outer boundary of the exclusion zone, an introductory presentation gives an informative history of the area. In the afternoon, head further into the zone to visit the exterior of Reactor No. 4 and take an extended tour of the ghost city of Pripyat. Once home to 50,000 residents, Pripyat now lies abandoned and overgrown. The plant workers and their families who lived in the city were evacuated in a major government operation starting the day after the catastrophe, on April 27. Visit numerous sites such as the school, sports centre, swimming pool and iconic ferris wheel – a haunting symbol of the tragedy. Return to Chernobyl for dinner and an overnight stay in the small hotel built for scientific advisors – a truly unique experience. (B,L,D) Day 4 Chernobyl to Kiev | Continue the tour of Chernobyl visiting further sites in and around Pripyat, including the Cooling Reservoir. Meet with the locals who have, despite government

warnings and laws, decided to resettle inside the zone. 80% of the selfsettlers remaining are women, now mostly in their 70s and 80s, creating a unique community of babushkas who refuse to leave the motherland. Depart Chernobyl for Kiev and check in to the hotel for two nights on arrival. (B,L) Day 5 Kiev | Make use of a free day in Kiev to discover the capital’s mix of Soviet-inspired architecture and grand Kyivan Rus complexes. Perhaps take a stroll down Andrew’s Descent, (Andriyivsky uzviz) where souvenir stalls, art galleries and restaurants line the quirky cobblestone streets.

Stop to admire the baroque beauty of St Andrew’s Church, built in 1754 by the Italian architect who designed St Petersburg’s Winter Palace. At the foot of the uzviz, the histories of the Descent’s buildings are told in the Museum of One Street. Make time to stop for a delicious bowl of borscht topped with sour cream for an authentic taste of Ukraine. Perhaps take in an evening performance at the State Operetta Theatre or National Philharmonic Hall. (B) Day 6 Kiev to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Departures

21 May & 29 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 8, Max 15

Prices from Single supp

£795 per person £110

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Ukraine Specialist on 0117 280 0121

25

Classic Belarus

26 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Belarus is a hidden gem in the heart of Europe, a little-visited dictatorship yet to follow its neighbours into the throes of capitalism. Over the centuries it has suffered numerous invasions but these have added to its rich history and culture, not to mention the heroism of its people. Discover Communist-era buildings and statues of Lenin in Stalinist Minsk, learn about the powerful Radzivill family at the country’s most impressive castles and admire the famed oak trees of Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park which date back over 500 years.

Day 1 Fly to Minsk | Fly to Minsk and transfer to the hotel for three nights. (D) Day 2 Minsk | Enjoy a morning city tour of Minsk including the main highlights such as Independence Square, Victory Square with its 38 metre-high obelisk and the Island of Tears. Spend the afternoon gaining an understanding of Belarusian Nazi occupation at Khatyn and Glory Mound. The memorial complex of Khatyn commemorates the site of the village which was burnt to the ground by the Nazis. See the outline of the streets and hear the bells toll as a sobering reminder. From Khatyn travel to the Glory Mound,

an imposing monument set atop an artificial hill. The monument was constructed to honour the Soviet Army which liberated Belarus from the Nazis in 1944. Soil from World War II battlefields as well as nine Hero Cities of the former Soviet Union was brought handful by handful to make the artificial hill alongside the Minsk to Moscow highway. (B,L) Day 3 Minsk | This morning visit the newly opened WWII museum in Minsk, before an afternoon visit to the Stalin Line Open-Air Museum. The Stalin Line was the main defence to protect Minsk from the advancing German Army. Experience the living conditions of the troops inside the pill boxes and battlements, as well as clambering over tanks and other military hardware from World War II and the more recent Cold War. (B,L) Day 4 Minsk to Brest | Drive to Brest with a stop en route at Nesvizh Castle, owned by the noble and powerful Radzivill family until the Red Army seized the property in 1939. It was rebuilt over the centuries so many times that it has myriad architectural styles including Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-gothic to name but a few.

Continue to Brest and check in to the hotel for an overnight stay. (B,L) Day 5 Brest to Grodno | Embark on a morning city tour of Brest including the famous Brest Hero Fortress; a majestic Soviet-style war memorial which was constructed on the site of the 1941 battle to commemorate

the defenders of the fortress. In the afternoon drive to Belavezhskaya Pushcha National Park, an important UNESCO-protected Biosphere Reserve, famed for its ancient oak trees and population of rare European bison. Continue to Grodno and check in to the hotel for two nights. (B,L) Day 6 Grodno | Enjoy a morning walking tour of Grodno, one of the oldest cities in Belarus, founded in the 11th century on the banks of the Neman River. A tour highlight is St.Gleb Church, also known as Kalozha Church, the only surviving monument of ancient Black Ruthenian architecture. (B,L) Day 7 Grodno to Minsk | Return to Minsk with a visit en route to the medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mir. The construction of this 16th century Gothic-style castle complex was started by Duke Ilinich, before passing to the Radzivill family who completed it in a Renaissance style. Continue to Minsk for an overnight stay. (B,L) Day 8 Minsk to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight to the UK. (B)

Departure

15 Jun 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

ÂŁ1395 per person

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

Price excludes Belarusian visa.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Belarus Specialist on 0117 280 0121

27

History of Stalingrad

28 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 020 7666 280 0121 1244 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk www.regentholidays.co.uk

Originally founded in 1589 as the fortress Tsaritsyn, Volgograd is better known by its pre-1960s name of Stalingrad. The city played a pivotal but bloody role in defending Russia against the Germans during the Second World War and was awarded the title Hero City in 1945. Spend three full days discovering the key historic sites in Volgograd from The Battle of Stalingrad Museum – one of the world’s biggest WWII museums – to the memorial complex of Mamayev Kurgan, the Red October Factory and the last headquarters of the 6th German Army.

Day 1 Volgograd | Fly to Volgograd and transfer to the hotel for four nights.

Day 2 Volgograd | Discover the main highlights including Mamayev Hill and the Grain Elevator, a particularly welldefended Soviet strongpoint during WWII, on a city tour of Volgograd.

After lunch, visit the Panorama Museum of the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the biggest WWII museums in the world, and discover hundreds of unique exhibits, including Zaitsev’s rifle (a famous Soviet sniper) and a panoramic canvas illustrating the Battle of Stalingrad. (B,L)

Day 3 Volgograd | Located in the northern part of Volgograd, the Red October Steel Factory, Stalingrad Tractor Factory – which produced the legendary T-34 tank during the war – and Barrikady Gun Factory became world-famous for the combat which took place there during 1942-1943.

Spend time exploring the area and discover Lyudnikov’s Island, a piece of land heavily defended during WWII under the command of Colonel Ivan Lyudnikov. (B,L) Day 4 Volgograd | Visit Kalach-onDon where an armoured clash took place between the German 6th Army and the Soviet 64th and 1st Tank Armies in 1942. Some months later, several Soviet tank corps encircled the besieged German 6th Army in Stalingrad by capturing Kalach, therefore cutting off enemy supply routes. After lunch explore the last headquarters of the German 6th Army and discover where General Field Marshal Friedrich Paulus surrendered to Soviet forces in 1943. (B,L) Day 5 Volgograd to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Departure

22 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 6, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1275 per person £195

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

Price excludes Russian visa.

A SHORT HISTORY German plans to capture and gain control of the city of Stalingrad began in the summer of 1942 and by midNovember Soviet defenders had been pushed back into narrow zones along the west banks of the Volga River.

The Red Army launched Operation Uranus on 19 November1942 which targeted attacks on the weaker Romanian and Hungarian forces protecting the German 6th Army.

German forces became overrun and on 23 November 1942 the Soviets captured Kalach and surrounded the German Army in Stalingrad. Hitler ordered the army to stay but after months of heavy fighting and with ammunition and food supplies exhausted, the German 6th Army surrendered at the beginning of February 1943.

The Battle of Stalingrad (August 23 1942 - February 2 1943) is among the bloodiest battles in the history of warfare and cost the lives of hundreds of thousands of German troops and even more Russians. In 1945, along with gaining Hero City status, Great Britain’s King George VI awarded the citizens of Stalingrad the jewelled Sword of Stalingrad in recognition of their bravery.

Almost completely destroyed during the war, the construction of the modern city began in 1946.

Only known as Stalingrad for a period of 26 years, the city may regain its wartime name if a referendum proposed by Putin goes ahead.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Russia Specialist on 0117 280 0121

29

Sayan Ring Group Tour

30 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

Discover a vast land of rolling steppes and snow-capped mountains steeped in cultural traditions from Shamanism to throat singing. Feel like a pioneer and stay in traditional yurt camps and be entertained with folkloric performances before uncovering ancient sites and sacred monuments strewn across the dramatic landscape.

Shushenskoye, a village famous for being the home of Lenin whilst he was in exile. (B,L,D)

Days 1 & 2 Fly to Moscow | Fly to Moscow and enjoy a tour of the city. (B)

Day 7 Tuva | Explore Kyzyl, the capital of Tuva and visit the monument marking the geographical centre of Asia before stopping at a Buddhist temple, a shaman community and the Regional Museum of Tuva. Back at the yurt camp take part in a Tuvan tea making ceremony and after sunset, watch shamans perform a ritual blessing for health and happiness over an open fire. (B,L,D)

Day 3 Moscow to Krasnoyarsk | Take a morning flight to Krasnoyarsk and explore this energetic city by the Yenisey River. (B) Day 4 Krasnoyarsk | On a city tour visit Paraskeva Pyatnista Chapel as featured on the 10 rouble bank note.

At the Bobrovy Log Ski Resort take a chair lift to the viewing platform for a magnificent vista of volcanic rock fingers or ‘stolby’ poking above the woods in the huge nature reserve. Visit the excellent Regional Museum and marvel at the 4 metre tall mammoth skeleton. (B,L,D) Day 5 Krasnoyarsk to Shushenskoye | Journey across two nature zones and past a man-made sea to reach the Sayan Mountains in Southern Siberia.

Stop for a photo of the Krasnoyarsk Hydroelectric Power Station, one of the biggest dams in the world. Finish the day in the peaceful setting of

Day 6 Tuva | This morning visit the Ethnographical Museum before continuing towards Tuva across the West Sayan Mountains, where the scenery becomes wilder with brooding steppes and steep cliffs. Spend a night in a traditional felt yurt close to Kyzyl and after dinner listen to traditional throat singing under the star filled sky. (B,L,D)

Day 8 Tuva to the Snow Leopard Camp | Follow in the footsteps of ancient nomads and travel towards Khakassia and the Snow Leopard Camp. Stop at Khairykan Mountain, one of the most sacred places in Tuva and selected by the Dalai Lama as a place of strength and energy. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by larches and mountain edelweiss. (B,L,D) Day 9 Snow Leopard Camp | Spend the day immersed in Siberian nature; hike to Lake Marankul or gather berries and mushrooms whilst snacking on delicious cedar nuts. In the evening

brave a Russian ‘banya’ complete with the ritual of hitting yourself with bunches of birch and oak twigs, followed by a refreshing dip in the icecold waters of a Siberian stream. (B,L,D) Day 10 Khakassia | Leave the dark depths of the forest for the open steppes of Kutznetsky Alatau and to the Kyug Yurt Camp on the banks of the River Askiz. In the evening observe a traditional folk performance in the tranquillity of the Khakassian valley.

(B,L,D)

Day 11 Khakassia | Visit the National Museum of Khakassia and wander amongst numerous ancient mounds discovering centuries-old rock inscriptions. Learn about the everyday lives of Khakassian people at the ethnographical village ‘Khakasian Aal’.

(B,L,D)

Day 12 Abakan to Krasnoyarsk | Stop in Abakan and visit the Regional Museum of Khakassia, before continuing to the Valley of the Kings, the resting place of the Ding-Ling epoch rulers from the 3rd and 5th centuries B.C. (B,L,D) Day 13 Krasnoyarsk to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK via Moscow. (B)

Departure

21 Aug 2016

Group size

Min 6, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£2999 per person £375

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers, sightseeing tours and tour leader from Regent Holidays. Price excludes Russian visa.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Russia Specialist on 0117 280 0121

31

BAM Railway Group Tour

This unique railway adventure is a Soviet epic that takes the Baikal-Amur Mainline through remotest Siberia, stopping at small off-the-map towns. The line fully opened in 1991 and today only a handful of trains pass along the route. Travel to the unspoilt parts of Lake Baikal, learn about Vladivostok’s key military attractions and admire the fancy fretwork of Irkutsk’s wooden houses.

Days 1 & 2 Fly to Vladivostok | Fly to Vladivostok via Moscow, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 3 Vladivostok | Enjoy a guided tour of the city’s key military attractions including the Submarine Museum. (B) Day 4 Vladivostok | Explore Russky Island which was of primary importance during the Soviet Era. Discover Voroshilov Battery and its huge cannons from the Poltava battleship and enjoy the impressive views of Vladivostok from the highest point on the island. Transfer to the railway station to begin your trip on the BAM railway. Take the overnight train to Khabarovsk. (B,L,D) Day 5 Khabarovsk | Arrive in Khabarovsk and enjoy a full day tour of this major Siberian city. Visit the Far Eastern Railway Museum which houses a collection of around 2,000

original artefacts, documents, models and photographs depicting the history and construction of the Far Eastern Railway. Take a boat trip on the Amur River and transfer to the railway station to take the overnight train to Komsomolsk. (B,L,D) Day 6 Komsomolsk-on-Amur | Arrive in Komsomolsk, one of the largest cities on the BAM and originally built as a secret centre for military industries in 1932. Enjoy a city tour of Komsomolsk and in the afternoon, visit the Museum of Yuri Gagarin Aircraft Factory. (B) Day 7 Komsomolsk-on-Amur | Make use of this free day to explore Komsomolsk further. Perhaps photograph Stalin’s Neo-renaissance style buildings and housing blocks adorned with both sculptured and painted Soviet Murals.

Catch the train to Tynda. (B) Day 8 Train to Tynda | Pass through the region of permafrost and cross the Rivers Zeya and Bureya.

Day 9 Tynda to Severobaikalsk | Arrive in Tynda, home to the BAM construction company headquarters.

Explore the town with your Regent Tour Leader before catching the train to Severobaikalsk which passes through the longest tunnel in Russia, Severomuisk Tunnel.

Day 10 Severobaikalsk | Arrive in Severobaikalsk and transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is free to relax or perhaps take a walk around the town.

Day 11 Severobaikalsk | Severobaikalsk has grown from a

small settlement of tents and wooden huts to a modern city surrounded by mountains and Lake Baikal. Visit the BAM museum and Baikalskoye village before transferring to the railway station to depart for Irkutsk. (B) Day 12 Train to Irkutsk | Pass through Taishet and Bratsk looking out for the huge dam built on the Angara River.

Day 13 Lake Baikal | Arrive in Irkutsk and transfer to the beautiful village of Listvyanka where you will find wooden houses stretched along the shore of Lake Baikal. Visit Baikal Museum and join an excursion of Listvyanka including a visit to Shaman Rock. (L,D) Day 14 Lake Baikal | Stroll down to the harbour for a boat ride on the lake. Visit the fish and souvenir market where you can sample delicious smoked fish like Omul and buy souvenirs including Matryoshka dolls. (B,L) Day 15 Irkutsk | Visit Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture which exhibits 300 year old wooden houses. Embark on a city tour of Irkutsk exploring its pretty streets, grand public buildings, cathedrals, churches and museums. (B,L) Day 16 Irkutsk to UK | Transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK. (B) Departure

10 Oct 2016

Group size

Min 8, max 16

Prices from Single supp

£3460 per person £320

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers, sightseeing tours and tour leader from Regent Holidays. Price excludes Russian visa.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Russia Specialist on 0117 280 0121

33

Pioneering Nagorno Karabakh

34 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

This group tour travels to the landlocked mountainous region of Nagorno Karabakh, an ethnic Armenian enclave inside Azerbaijan which declared independence in 1992 – an independence recognised by no one except Trans-Dniestr.

Despite decades of languishing as a breakaway Caucasus state of the former Soviet Union, the beauty and cultural richness of this isolated mountain landscape are undeniable. This pioneering group tour was chosen by the Guardian as one of the top 12 best adventure holidays for 2015.

Armenia’s version of Stonehenge at Karahunj before arriving in Goris. (B,L,D)

Day 1 Fly to Yerevan | Fly to Yerevan and transfer to the hotel for two nights.

Day 6 Gandzasar and Dadivank | Visit Gandzasar Monastery, one of the main religious sites of Karabakh. This monastery was founded in the 13th century on a site where locals believe the head of John the Baptist is buried.

Continue to Dadivank Monastery, one of the largest medieval monasteries founded by St. Dadi, a disciple of St. Thaddeus, who spread Christianity across the region in the 1st century. (B,L)

Day 2 Yerevan | Explore Yerevan including a stop at Victory Park and the Mother Armenia monument for a great panoramic view of the city.

Museum visits include the Genocide Museum and Memorial Complex and the Matenadaran – the manuscript museum. (B,L) Day 3 Yerevan to Goris | Begin the journey to Nagorno Karabakh with a visit to Khor Virap Monastery. This stone monastery set against the backdrop of a snow-covered Mount Ararat is an iconic image of Armenia.

Stop to enjoy a wine tasting in the village of Areni, which is famous for its rather delicious dry red wine. Discover

Day 4 Tatev Monastery | Take a cable car to Tatev Monastery. Known as Wings of Tatev, it holds the record for the longest non-stop double track cable car in the world measuring some 3.5 miles. Visit Vorotnavank Monastery which overlooks Vorotan Gorge. (B,L) Day 5 Shushi to Stepanakert | Arrive in Nagorno Karabakh, where the first stop is the town of Shushi, former capital of Karabakh. Visit the church of Ghazanchetsots, the Mosque and the so-called Green church known as Kanach Jam. Stop at the Tank monument which symbolises the liberation of Shushi during the conflict.

On arrival in Stepanakert, check in to the hotel for three nights. (B,L,D)

Day 7 Mayraberd and Tigranakert | Explore two important city-fortresses, starting with the remains of the Mayraberd Fortress. En route, pass the ruins of Aghdam city, destroyed during the Karabakh War. From Mayraberd continue to Tigranakert, established by King Tigranes the Great

in the 1st century BC, discovered in 2006 and now a rich archaeological site and working dig. (B,L) Day 8 Stepanakert to Goris | Visit Shosh, an area of outstanding natural beauty, where there are many plantations of mulberry trees that are used in the making of mulberry vodka. Visit the village of Khndzoresk, famous for its canyon with picturesque rock formations and ancient cave settlement. (B,L,D) Day 9 Goris to Yerevan | En route back to Yerevan visit Noravank Monastery located on the hill of a winding rosecoloured gorge. (B,L) Day 10 Garni & Geghard | Visit Garni Pagan Temple, one of the oldest sites in Armenia, once part of a great complex of palaces and temples serving as a summer residence for the Armenian kings of the day. Enjoy a pleasant walk to Geghard Cave Monastery, cut into the side of the cliff and surrounded by ancient gravestones. Lunch is at a village house where you can learn how traditional Armenian flat bread is made. (B,L,D) Day 11 Yerevan to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Departures

5 May & 28 Aug 2016

Group size

Min 8, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1590 per person £290

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Caucasus Specialist on 0117 280 0121

35

Monuments & Mountains of the Silk Road

Combine the highlights Of Uzbekistan with a journey to the mysterious and mountainous Republic Of Tajikistan. Discover mosques and madrassahs in the UNESCO listed site of Bukhara, travel off-the-beaten-track to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane, cross the Hissar Mountains and admire the craftsmanship of the ceramic makers and silk weavers of the Fergana Valley.

Day 1 Fly to Tashkent | Depart London Heathrow and fly to Tashkent.

Day 2 Tashkent | Arrive in Tashkent, and transfer to your hotel. Meet your local guide and spend the afternoon exploring Tashkent. (L,D) Day 3 Tashkent to Khiva | Fly to Urgench and transfer to Khiva. Explore Khiva with your guide, visiting the Harem, the turquoise-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret, the Khan’s throne room and a local wood carving workshop. (B,L,D) Day 4 Khiva to Bukhara | Travel through the Kyzylkum Desert and stop at the Amu Darya River. Continue to Bukhara – Central Asia’s holiest city. (B,L,D) Day 5 Bukhara | Explore this breathtaking city; marvel at Saminid’s Mausoleum, Chashma Ayub Mazar, Poi-Kalan complex, Ulugbek madrassahs, Lyabi-Hauz complex and the oldest building in Bukhara – the Ark Citadel. (B,L,D)

Day 6 Bukhara to Samarkand | Continue to explore Bukhara and after lunch travel to Samarkand (B,L,D) Day 7 Samarkand | Embark on a sightseeing tour of Samarkand. Visit the iconic Bibi-Kanym Mosque, the Guri-Emir Mausoleum, the 15th Century Ulugbek Observatory and the ancient cemetery of Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis. (B,L,D) Day 8 Samarkand to Shakhrisabz | Explore Shakhrisabz, best known for being Tamerlane’s hometown. Stroll through the ruins and discover Ak Saray Palace, Kok Gumbaz Mosque and the Mausoleum of Sheikh Shamsedin Kulyal. (B,L,D) Day 9 Shakhrisabz to Termez | Travel to the town of Termez, the last stop in Uzbekistan before Afghanistan.

Spend time exploring Fayaz-tepe Buddhism Complex, the Sultan Saodat complex, Kyrk-Kyz Farmstead and the Mausoleum of Khakim al Termezi. (B,L,D) Day 10 Termez to Dushanbe | Cross into the mountainous country of Tajikistan and make your way to the capital, Dushanbe. Explore its treelined streets and pastel coloured neoclassical buildings. Visit the National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan and marvel at the 13 metre-long sleeping Buddha, dating back to the Kushan era (around 500AD) it is the largest Buddha figure in Central Asia. (B,L,D) Day 11 Dushanbe to Istravshan | Drive through the stunning Hissar Mountains to reach the small historic town of Istravshan – one of the best

preserved old towns in Tajikistan.

Explore the maze of alleys that make up the old city and discover the colourful central bazaar and the blue domes of the Abdullatif Sultan madrassahs. End the day by visiting Teppe – the site of a Sogdian fortress which was stormed by Alexander the Great in 329BC. (B,L,D) Day 12 Istravshan to Khojand | Travel to Khojand, Tajikistan’s second largest city. Visit Sheikh Maslikhiddin Mausoleum and Mosque, as well as the exotic Payshhambe Bazaar (B,L,D) Day 13 Khojand to Fergana | Travel back into Uzbekistan and on to the city of Kokand in the Fergana Valley. Visit the Khudyar Khan Palace and Juma Mosque before continuing to the town of Rishtan, famous for its ceramics.

Day 14 Fergana to Tashkent | Leave Fergana and visit the silk factory in Margilan where you will see the whole process of silk making. Continue to the town of Namangan before heading back over the mountains to Tashkent.

(B,L,D)

Day 15 Fly to the UK | Spend the morning at leisure before your flight back to the UK. (B)

Departure

2 Jun 2016

Group size

Min 8, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£2475 per person £245

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Central Asia Specialist on 0117 280 0121

37

Classic Turkmenistan

38 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Possibly the most reclusive of the Central Asian states, Turkmenistan has been largely overlooked by the world since gaining independence in 1991.

This Regent Holidays exclusive group tour provides a fascinating insight into the republic’s history.

Admire the lavish marble palaces of Ashgabat, journey into the Karakum desert to witness the flaming Darvaza crater and find out why Merv was one of the most important cities on the Silk Road.

Day 1 Fly to Ashgabat | Take an overnight flight to Ashgabat.

Day 2 Ashgabat | Arrive in Ashgabat and transfer to the hotel for two nights.

Enjoy an excursion to Tolkuchka Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s most impressive markets where you can expect to haggle for carpets, camels and car parts. Embark on a sightseeing tour of the city including the WWII Memorial and Turkmenbashy Square, famed for its surrounding marble palaces and eccentric Arch of Neutrality. (B,L,D) Day 3 Ashgabat to Darvaza | Visit the Turkmen Carpet Museum and the National Museum which gives an insight into the history of the Turkmen nation and its people. After lunch, head north into the Karakum Desert to visit the semi-nomadic village of Erbent before arriving at Darvaza,

an impressive flaming gas crater which has been burning since 1971. Camp overnight in the desert. (B,L,D) Day 4 Darvaza to Dashoguz | Continue through the desert to Konye Urgench, once considered one of the most important cities in the Islamic world.

Although largely destroyed by the Mongols and Timur, there are some fascinating UNESCO-protected remains. Continue to the provincial capital of Dashoguz to overnight. (B,L,D) Day 5 Dashoguz to Turkmenbashy | Visit Dashoguz’s main market before a short flight to Turkmenbashy on the Caspian coast. Visit the small Japanese Memorial before a tour of the city, including the chance to shop for caviar in the Cheryomushki Market. (B,L,D) Day 6 Turkmenbashy to Balkanabat | Continue to Balkanabat, provincial capital of the region, and enjoy an introductory tour of the city followed by free time to explore at leisure.

Situated at the foot of the Balkan Daglary mountain range, the city has four bazaars as well as a concrete ‘Health Path’ to encourage residents to take a hike along the mountainside.

(B,L,D)

Day 7 Balkanabat to Ashgabat | Visit the Kow Ata Underground Lake, a unique thermal spa also home to Central Asia’s largest colony of bats.

Stop at the Mosque of Turkmenbashy en route to Ashgabat. (B,L,D) Day 8 Ashgabat to Mary | Enjoy additional sightseeing in Ashgabat with visits to the Atamurat Niyazov

Memorial, Lenin Monument, Turkmenistan Trade Centre and Ashgabat Park. Visit Nisa Fortress, an impressive Parthian site, before a short flight to the city of Mary located in a large oasis in the middle of the Karakum Desert. (B,L,D) Day 9 Mary to Gonur | Travel across the desert by 4WD Russian UAZ jeep to the remote archaeological site of Gonur, first settled in the Bronze Age and believed to be the birthplace of Zoroastrianism. (B,L,D) Day 10 Merv to Ashgabat | Discover the scattered UNESCO-protected ruins of Merv, where today little remains of this once great Silk Road city. During its 12th century heyday this thriving oasis town was a hugely important centre of science, education and culture, and the ongoing archaeological projects at the site continue to make fascinating discoveries. Fly back to Ashgabat.

(B,L,D)

Day 11 Ashgabat | Free day to explore the city. (B,D) Day 12 Ashgabat to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Departures

23 Apr & 10 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 8, Max 14

Prices from Single supp

£2550 per person £380

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

Price excludes Immigration Card ($14) and Turkmen Visa.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Central Asia Specialist on 0117 280 0121

39

Kazakhstan “Back in the USSR”

Few countries are as vast, yet as shrouded in mystery as the Republic of Kazakhstan. Once part of the USSR, it became an independent nation in 1991, yet it still retains many of the traditions and features of its Soviet past. Kazakhstan was also the backdrop to the courage and skill of the first pioneers of space, and the ambitions and idealism behind the “New Soviet Man”, through the vast agricultural and industrial projects started in the middle of the 20th Century.

On this small group tour see how some of these projects also took a more sinister turn as the country once again played a role in the development and testing of the USSR’s nuclear deterrent and the legacy it left.

Day 1 Fly to Astana | Fly direct to Astana.

Day 2 Astana | Arrive in Astana and explore this futuristic ‘planned city’. In the afternoon drive out to the village of Akmol and visit the Museum of Soviet Repression at the former ALZHIR prison camp. (B,L,D) Day 3 Astana to Kurchatov | This morning leave behind Kazakhstan’s glittering new capital for the industrial city of Aksu. After lunch stroll through a park full of monuments from the

Soviet period before continuing to the once secret closed city of Kurchatov, named after Soviet nuclear physicist Igor Kurchatov. The town was once the centre of operations for the adjoining Semipalatinsk Test Site and is now home to Kazakhstan’s National Nuclear Centre, which contains a museum about the testing site, as well as a scale model of the various locations. Visit the residence of Lavrentiy Beria, the Soviet Union’s Chief of the Secret Police during the 1930s and 1940s. (B,L,D) Day 4 Kurchatov | This morning visit the Museum of the test site. With such a rich history, Semey and its environs provides an educational, if not sobering, experience about the legacy of nuclear weapons testing in the former Soviet Union. In the afternoon transfer to Chagan – a ghost town, which used to house those working in Kurchatov and see the monument commemorating those who worked on the nuclear programme. (B,L,D) Day 5 Kurchatov to Karkaralinsk | After breakfast, journey along the territory of the former Semipalatinsk test site through the mountain oases of Yedry and Ku, where mountain sheep and golden eagles thrive in this picturesque location. Enjoy a picnic lunch before setting off to Karkaralinsk. (B,L,D) Day 6 Karkaralinsk to Karaganda | Learn about the history of the Russian Civil War during a sightseeing tour around Karkaralinsk, before visiting the house of General Kornilov, a famous commander of the White Army, see the

“Monument of the 78 Communists” and explore the history museum. Drive through the steppe to Karaganda and explore the highlights of this mining city such as Miners’ House of Culture, Nurken Abdirov Monument and the Circus. (B,L,D) Day 7 Karaganda | Located in the heart of the Kazak steppe, Karaganda is known for two things: coal and labour camps. The two are connected, as the vast ‘KarLag’ network of Stalinera camps around Karaganda was established to provide food and labour for the mines. In fact, prison labour also built much of Karaganda itself. Today visit the former centre of the Karlag correctional labour camp. The newly restored former main administrative building shows photos, personal images and stories from the Gulags, as well as a huge mural of Stalin looking out grimly from behind a scaled-down mock watchtower. View the Spassk memorial, a cemetery-like ensemble of memorial stones dedicated by various nations to the camp system. In the afternoon transfer back to Astana for the last night in the capital. (B,L,D) Day 8 Astana to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Departure

2 Jun 2016

Group size

Min 8, max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1550 per person

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers, sightseeing tours and tour leader from Regent Holidays.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Central Asia Specialist on 0117 280 0121

41

Odyssey Along the Silk Road

42 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Shimmering desert towns, ornate Islamic palaces and bizarre soviet structures vie for attention in the Central Asian republics. Follow in the footsteps of the early Silk Road traders on this pioneering small group tour through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and into Western China, discovering the colourful bazaars, breathtaking mountain scenery and a melting pot of people and cultures.

Days 1 & 2 Fly to Almaty | Take an overnight flight to the Kazakh capital.

Check in and freshen up before a city tour including Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral and Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views. (Day 2 L,D) Day 3 Almaty | Travel to Medeo Gorge, a picturesque valley where the Kazakhs’ revered alpine skating rink is located. After lunch visit the Central State Museum and walk through the history of Kazakhstan. (B,L,D) Day 4 Almaty to Bishkek | Travel through the Zaili Steppe to Bishkek.

After lunch explore Ala Archa Valley National Park with its alpine meadows and flowing brooks. (B,L,D) Day 5 Bishkek | Tour Kyrgyzstan’s quirky capital including Pobeda and Ala-Too squares, the History Museum and Dubovy Park’s open air gallery.

Experience the sights and sounds of Osh Bazaar, where people sell everything from Kyrgyz carpets to

Lada parts. (B,L,D) Day 6 Bishkek to Cholpon-Ata | Travel to Cholpon-Ata on Issyk-Kul Lake, the second largest alpine lake in the world.

En route visit Burana Tower, an 11th century minaret. Enjoy lunch with a Kyrgyz family in Tokmok. (B,L,D) Day 7 Cholpon-Ata | Visit the Open Air Petroglyph Museum and the RukhOrdo cultural centre. The afternoon is free to enjoy the beauty of Issyk-Kul Lake with its incredible scenery from verdant meadows to alpine peaks. (B,L,D) Day 8 Cholpon-Ata to Karakol | Continue around the lake to the pretty town of Karakol, with its chocolate box cottages and shady poplar-lined avenues. Visit Dungan Mosque and the impressive Russian Orthodox Church. (B,L,D) Day 9 Karakol to Kochkor | Drive to Jety Oguz Gorge along the south shore of Issyk-Kul, keeping a look out for the famous red rocks known as Seven Bulls. Continue to Kochkor and visit a women’s handicraft cooperative. (B,L,D) Day 10 Kochkor to Naryn | Travel to Naryn and enjoy a tour of the city including the local bazaar and the central square (B,L,D) Day 11 Naryn to Kashgar | Travel through the green Kyrgyz steppe, stopping at the 15th century Rash Rabat Caravanserai. Enter the Torugart Pass, clear Chinese Customs and continue to Kashgar for three nights. (B,L,D)

Day 12 Kashgar | Visit the tomb of the Fragrant Concubine and discover Idkah Mosque, the largest mosque in China where 5,000 people gather to pray every day. In the evening visit the bustling night market. (B,L,D) Day 13 Lake Karakul | Travel along the Karakorum Highway to sparkling Lake Karakul – the highest lake in the Pamir plateau at an altitude of 3,600 metres, where towering snow-covered peaks reflect in the still waters. (B,L) Day 14 Kashgar Bazaar | Kashgar’s famous Sunday Bazaar is a highlight of any Silk Road journey. Watch the local Uyghur men trade livestock or barter for souvenirs such as spices and carpets. (B,L,D) Day 15 Kashgar to Almaty | Transfer to the airport for a flight back to Almaty via Urumqi. (B,D) Day 16 Charyn Canyon | Visit one of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular sights – the 12 million year old Charyn Canyon. Walk in the valley with its extraordinary rock sculptures and multicoloured gorges. (B,L,D) Day 17 Almaty to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Departures

30 Aug 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£3345 per person £495

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

Price excludes Kazakh and Chinese visas.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Central Asia Specialist on 0117 280 0121

43

Pioneering North Korea

44 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 020 7666 280 0121 1244 | www.regent-holidays.co.uk www.regentholidays.co.uk

After discovering the classic sights, leave behind the giant statues and grand buildings of Pyongyang and travel by chartered aircraft to remote towns like Chongjin, where a surreal drive though the industrial city reveals a different side to this hidden country. Voted one of Wanderlust’s 50 Best Trips for 2014, this pioneering itinerary pushes the boundaries of travel in the DPRK, taking chartered planes and untravelled back roads.

Day 1 Beijing to Pyongyang | Fly from Beijing to Pyongyang. Visit the Mansudae Grand Monument and the giant bronze statues of the great leaders. (D) Day 2 Pyongyang | Enjoy a city walk of central Pyongyang including the Kim Il Sung Square before driving to the Mangyongdae Native House.

Visit the Tram Depot and return to Pyongyang by tram where you will visit the Grand People’s Study House, Pyongyang Schoolchildren’s Palace and Taedonggang Microbrewery. (B,L,D) Day 3 Pyongyang to Kaesong | Drive to Nampo and sail to the 8 km long West Sea Barrage. Travel over Mt Kuwol to the Sinchon War Crimes Museum and Kaesong. (B,L,D) Day 4 Kaesong | Explore Kaesong including the Sonjuk Bridge, Koryo Museum, DMZ, Concrete Wall & Tomb

of King Kongmin. (B,L,D) Day 5 Kaesong to Pyongyang | Drive to Pyongyang and walk through Moranbong Park. Tour Pyongyang in a vintage 1950’s Skoda Public and visit the Juche Tower and Monument to the foundation of the Workers Party of Korea. (B,L,D) Day 6 Mt Myohyang | Fly by helicopter to Mt Myohyang and visit the International Friendship Exhibition and Pohyon Temple before driving back to Pyongyang. (B,L,D) Day 7 Pyongyang | Visit Kumsusan Palace of the Sun and the Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery before taking a ride on the fascinating Pyongyang Metro.

End the day visiting the USS Pueblo Ship and the Fatherland Liberation War Museum. (B,L,D)

Visit the Foreign Language Institute, Sungjon Pavilion and Sonbong Revolutionary Site as well as the Shoe Factory. (B,L,D) Day 12 Rajin Sonbong to Hamhung | Drive to Chongjin and tour the city in a trolleybus. Fly to Hamhung and visit Hamhung Bongung – the house where the founder king of the Ri dynasty resided. (B,L,D) Day 13 Hamhung to Wonsan | Head south to the Dongbong Co-operative Farm and drive to Wonsan. Visit the Railway Museum and the International Schoolchildren’s Camp before travelling to Jandok Islet. (B,L,D) Day 14 14 Wonsan to Mt Kumgang | Drive to scenic Mt Kumgang via Sijung Beach. Visit Sea Kumgang and SamilPo. (B,L,D)

Day 8 Pyongyang to Mt Paekdu | Board our chartered aircraft and fly north to Samjiyon. Drive to Mt Paekdu and walk to Janggun Peak, at 2,750m. Visit the Paekdu Secret Camps and end the day at Rimyongsu Falls. (B,L,D)

Day 15 Mt Kumgang | Walk to Kuryong Waterfall. Relax in the Massage Centre or hike around the area. (B,L,D)

Day 9 Samjiyon to Chongjin | Tour Samjiyon including the Samjiyon Grand Monument and Pochonbo. Fly to Orang and drive to the industrial port of Chongjin. Visit the Statues of President Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il and the Steelworks Kindergarten. (B,L,D)

Day 17 Masikryong to Pyongyang | Enjoy a final tour of the city. (B,L,D)

Day 10 Rajin Sonbong Free Trade Zone | Drive to Rason and visit the Triangle Bank, Rajin Market and Rajin Port. (B,L,D) Day 11 Rajin Sonbong Free Trade Zone | Explore this foreign investment zone.

Day 16 Mt Kumgang to Masikryong | Drive to Masikryong and spend the afternoon exploring the area. (B,L,D)

Day 18 Pyongyang to Beijing | Depart for Beijing by air or by rail. (B) Departure

5 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£3100 per person £600

Price includes flights from Beijing , accommodation, meals as specified, transfers, sightseeing tours and North Korean visa.

Price excludes return flights UK to Beijing and Chinese double entry visa (if required).

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a North Korea Specialist on 0117 280 0121

45

Classic Liberation Day Tour

15th August will mark the 71st Anniversary of the Japanese withdrawal from Korea, marking the start of the modern era that created an independent North (and South) Korea.

This will be one of the most important national holidays in North Korea in 2016 and we expect various special events and celebrations to take place on this tour. Discover the main sights in Pyongyang before taking a private chartered flight to Samjiyon to visit the beautiful Mt. Paekdu.

Day 1 Beijing to Pyongyang | Fly from Beijing to Pyongyang and meet your local guide for a visit to the Taedonggang Microbrewery. Check in to the Yanggakdo Hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner. (D) Day 2 Pyongyang | Enjoy a full day tour of Pyongyang including the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the Pyongyang Grand Theatre, the Foreign Language Bookshop, the Mansudae Grand Monument, the Juche Tower, the Workers Party Monument and the Pyongyang Metro. (B,L,D) Day 3 Liberation Day & DMZ | Monday 15th August is the 71st Anniversary of Liberation from Japan. Drive south to the perimeter of the DMZ. Meet with an army escort to learn about the history of the DMZ and visit the

infamous blue huts which straddle the North-South Korean border. Return to Pyongyang. (This day is flexible to allow the best chance of witnessing special events and celebrations). (B,L,D) Day 4 Pyongyang to Mt Paekdu | Fly north to Samjiyon on our chartered aircraft. This border region is home to Mt Paekdu – a peak of great spiritual symbolism to the Korean people and the home of the Korean People’s Army during the war against the Japanese.

Drive to Mt Paekdu and walk to the highest point on the Korean Peninsula, Janggun Peak, at 2,750m. Visit the Paekdu Secret Camps and scenic Rimyongsu Falls. (B,L,D) Day 5 Samjiyon to Hamhung | Spend the morning touring Samjiyon and the surrounding area including the Schoolchildren’s Palace and the Samjiyon Grand Monument. Fly south to Hamhung and spend the afternoon relaxing at the beach or in your hotel.

(B,L,D)

Day 6 Hamhung to Wonsan | Visit the Hungnam Fertilizer Factory, Hamhung Bongung – the house where Ri Song Ge, founder king of the Ri dynasty resided, the exterior of the Grand Theatre, Donhung Hill and Dongbong Co-operative Farm. Drive to Wonsan and enjoy a tour of the city including the Provincial Art Gallery and a trip to Jandok Islet. (B,L,D) Day 7 Wonsan to Mt Kumgang | Drive to scenic Mt Kumgang via Sijung Beach. Check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. In the afternoon, visit

the attractive Samil Lake and Sea Kumgang, a pleasant coastal site near the South Korean border. (B,L,D) Day 8 Mt. Kumgang to Masikryong | Enjoy a walk up to Kuryong Waterfall.

Those who wish can take an alternative track to view the “Fairies pools” – a site of famous Korean legends, others can relax at the bottom of the track.In the afternoon drive to the Masikyrong Hotel – a newly constructed hotel in Masikryong. (B,L,D) Day 9 Masikryong to Pyongyang | In the morning explore Masikryong.

Perhaps hike in the hills or relax in your hotel. In the afternoon, drive back to Pyongyang and check in to the Yanggakdo Hotel. (B,L,D) Day 10 Pyongyang | Visit Mangyondae Revolutionary Site and the Tram Depot. Return to Pyongyang by tram for a city walk to the Grand People’s Study House, the War Museum, the Fatherland Liberation Museum and the USS Pueblo – an 850 ton US spy boat captured in 1968 by the Koreans off the coast of Wonsan. (B,L,D) Day 11 Pyongyang to Beijing | Depart for Beijing by air or by rail. (B) Please note that we are offering shorter and longer variations of this departure. Speak to Carl for details of these tours.

Departure

13 Aug 2016

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£2225 per person £375

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a North Korea Specialist on 0117 280 0121

47

Kim Il Sung Anniversary Tour

48 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

Witness celebrations to mark what would have been the 104th birthday of Kim Il Sung on this exciting tour of North Korea’s capital, Pyongyang and its surrounding areas. Take a ride on the city’s impressive metro system and gain an insight into life under this previous leader in this fascinating nation.

Day 1 Beijing to Pyongyang | Take the Air Koryo flight to North Korea’s eccentric capital and meet your local guides who will be with you throughout your time in Korea. Visit the Taedonggang Microbrewery for a drink or two where you can chat with your guides about plans for the next few days. Enjoy a welcome dinner in a nearby restaurant before transferring to the Yanggakdo Hotel. (D) Day 2 Anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung | Enjoy the jovial atmosphere across the city and join in with any celebrations on this important national holiday. Head to the city centre and walk from Pyongyang Grand Theatre to Kim Il Sung Square and the Mansudae Fountain Park. Visit the Mansudae Grand Monument and marvel at the 20-metre tall bronze statues of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. Lay a wreath of flowers at the foot of the statue before bowing in unison. Head into the suburbs to visit the Mangyondae Native Site, where President Kim Il Sung was born in

1912, and visit the Tram Depot in Mangyondae before returning to Pyongyang by private tram. (B,L,D) Day 3 Pyongyang | Visit the newly renovated Fatherland Liberation War Museum and the USS Pueblo – an 850 ton US spy boat captured by the Koreans in 1968. Visit the Juche Tower and take the lift to the top (€5) for a great view over the capital. Stop at the Monument to the Foundation of the Workers Party of North Korea nearby before heading underground to explore the cavernous and opulent Pyongyang Metro. Wander through the main city park, Moranbong, and enjoy dinner back at the hotel after a busy day. (B,L,D) Day 4 Pyongyang to Kaesong | Dress smartly for a visit to Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, Mausoleum of President Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il, near the foot of Mt. Taesong. Visit the nearby Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery, site of the graves of over 200 of Korea’s leading resistance figures from the years of Japanese rule, including the grave of Kim Jong Suk – President Kim Il Sung’s wife. Drive south to Kaesong, visiting the Sariwon Migok Cooperative Farm en route, and check in to Janamsan Hotel. (B,L,D) Day 5 DMZ | Visit Sonjuk Bridge and the Koryo History Museum before heading south to Panmunjom – the DMZ. Meet with an army escort and tour the Armistice Talks Hall and one of the huts that straddles the NorthSouth Korean border. In the afternoon

visit a secondary school where you are likely to enjoy a performance put on by the students. Enjoy a farewell dinner in Pyongyang before returning to the Hotel Yanggakdo. (B,L,D) Days 6/7 Pyongyang to Beijing | Depart Pyongyang for Beijing by air or rail. (B) TOUR EXTENSION For those wanting a more in-depth exploration on North Korea, opt for the extended tour which travels to Hamhung on Day 6 and discover the Dongbong Co-operative Farm before arriving in Wonsan to visit the Provincial Art Gallery on Day 7. On Day 8, visit the recently opened Masikrong Ski Resort before driving west through Nampo to the Ryanggang Hot Spa Hotel. On day 9 visit the West Sea Barrage and the Sinchon War Crimes Museum before heading back to Pyongyang via Sariwon. Depart for Beijing by rail or plane on Days 10 and 11.

Departure

14 April 16

Group size

Min 10, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1350 per person £175

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a North Korea Specialist on 0117 280 0121

49

Classic Workers Party Foundation Tour

50 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

Gain an insight into local life in North Korea by witnessing the celebrations for the anniversary of the foundation of the Workers Party on October 9th 2016. Step into this secretive and fascinating society on this 8 day group tour and explore the Pyongyang suburbs, travel through Kaesong to the DMZ, venture to Mt. Myohyang and Nampo, and discover some of the many interesting sights in the capital including the Mansudae Grand Monument.

Day 1 Beijing to Pyongyang | Take the Air Koryo flight to North Korea’s eccentric capital and meet your local guides who will be with you throughout your time in Korea. Visit the Taedonggang Microbrewery for a drink or two where you can chat with your guides about plans for the next few days. Enjoy a welcome dinner in a nearby restaurant before transferring to the Yanggakdo Hotel. (D) Day 2 Pyongyang to DMZ | Drive south along the reunification highway through Kaesong to reach Panmunjon – the DMZ and South Korean border.

Meet with your army escort who will explain the history of the DMZ and visit the Armistice Talks Hall and building where the Armistice was signed. Visit one of the huts that straddles the North-South Korean

border before visiting the Koryo History Museum and Stamp shop.

Return to Pyongyang. (B,L,D) Day 3 Anniversary of the Foundation of the Workers Party of Korea | Today is a national holiday and we anticipate various special events and celebrations in the city. Join in the jovial atmosphere and enjoy a full day tour of Pyongyang including the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the Pyongyang Grand Theatre, the Foreign Language Bookshop, the Mansudae Grand Monument, the Juche Tower, the Workers Party Monument and the Pyongyang Metro. (B,L,D) Day 4 Pyongyang to Mt Myohyang | Visit the Fatherland Liberation War Museum and the USS Pueblo, an 850 ton US spy boat captured in1968 by the Koreans off the coast of Wonsan.

Visit Pyongyang’s central library – the Grand People’s Study House situated on Kim Il Sung Square before catching a special chartered train to Mt Myohyang. (B,L,D) Day 5 Mt Myohyang to Pyongyang | Visit the fascinating International Friendship Exhibition, a massive complex housing gifts presented to Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il over the years, and the attractive Pohyon Temple founded in 1042. Enjoy a brief walk in the mountains before returning back to Pyongyang by train. (B,L,D) Day 6 Pyongyang | Dress smartly for a visit to Kumsusan Sun’s Palace, Mausoleum of President Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il near the foot

of Mt. Taesong. Visit the nearby Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery, site of the graves of over 200 of Korea’s leading resistance figures from the years of Japanese rule, including the grave of Kim Jong Suk – President Kim Il Sung’s wife. Head into the Pyongyang suburbs and visit the Mangyondae Native House, the birthplace of President Kim Il Sung and the Mangyondae Schoolchildren’s Palace where you will tour the facilities and enjoy a performance put on by the students. (B,L,D) Day 7 Pyongyang to Nampo | Drive along the Youth Hero highway to the port city of Nampo. Board a private motor boat and cruise down the Taedong River arriving at the West Sea Barrage – an 8km long barrage built in the 1980’s. Return to Pyongyang for some final sightseeing. (B,L,D) Please note that we are offering shorter and longer variations of this departure. Speak to Carl for details of these tours.

Day 8 Pyongyang to Beijing | Depart for Beijing by air or by rail. (B)

Departure

8 Oct 2016

Group size

Min 6, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£1700 per person £245

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a North Korea Specialist on 0117 280 0121

51

Bhutan in Depth

52 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 0117 280 0121 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

Bhutan is a mystical Himalayan country sandwiched between the Tibetan plateau and India.

Crystal clear glacier-fed rivers, jaw-dropping mountain passes and soaring Buddhist temples festoon this untouched mountain paradise. Catch sight of Mount Everest and explore the city of Thimphu before lacing up your walking boots for a hike through a beautiful pine forest and fluttering prayer flags to the iconic Tigers Nest Monastery.

Days 1 & 2 Fly to Kathmandu | Fly to Kathmandu and enjoy a welcome buffet dinner. (D) Day 3 Kathmandu to Bhutan | Fly to Paro, Bhutan. Transfer to the capital, Thimphu, and spend the evening exploring a popular night market. (B,L,D) Day 4 Thimphu | Spend the day exploring the sights and architecture of this beautiful city. (B,L,D) Day 5 Thimphu to Punakha | Drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass with its 108 chortens. Walk through paddy fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple dedicated to Bhutan’s popular saint Drukpa Kunley. Continue to imposing Punakha Dzong where you may meet and interact with local monks. (B,L,D) Day 6 Punakha to Bumthang | Travel from Punakha to Bumthang crossing the Black Mountains via the Pele

la Pass and the heavily cultivated Mangde Chhu Valley. Stop for a picnic lunch at Chendebji Chorten before continuing to Trongsa. Spend time wandering around this pleasant township before driving the beautiful scenic route to Bumthang. (B,L,D) Day 7 Bumthang | Explore the Bumthang Valleys with visits to Jakar Dzong, the largest in Bhutan, Tamshing Goemba and Kurjey Lhakhang. Stop to sample the wares produced by the Red Panda Brewery. (B,L,D) Day 8 Nimalung Tsechu | Drive to Nimalung Dratshang and attend the colourful Nimalung Festival (Tsechu).

Watch dances performed by monks or laymen and why not follow Bhutanese tradition by dressing in a Bhutanese gho (for men) or a kira (for women) – which also make a great souvenir!

Spend the remainder of the day strolling around Jakar town. (B,L,D) Day 9 Bumthang to Phobjikha | Journey from Bumthang Valley to Trongsa via the Yotung La. Take the cliff-carved road and cross the Pele La into western Bhutan, descending into the glacial valley of Phobjikha, a designated conservation area for a large flock of black-necked cranes who migrate here in winter. Visit Gangtey Monastery and the Black-necked Crane information centre. (B,L,D) Day 10 Phobjikha to Paro | Ascend to Dochula Pass for crisp morning views over the Eastern Himalayas. Travel through blossoming hills and pine forests to reach Paro in time for lunch.

Visit Rinpung Dzong which is the seat of district administration and home to the monastic school. In the afternoon explore Kyichu Lhakhang and sample traditional Bhutanese cuisine at a local farmhouse. (B,L,D) Day 11 Tigers Nest Monastery | Hike to the iconic Tigers Nest Monastery (Takstang), perched on the edge of an 800m cliff looking over Paro Valley.

Enjoy lunch at the Taktsang Cafe and admire the incredible view of the Monastery. Descend to Drugyal Dzong and stroll around Paro town for some last minute shopping. (B,L,D) Day 12 Bhutan to Kathmandu | Fly to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square in the old city and Swayambhunath, also known as Monkey Temple. Explore the 17th Century Durbar complex, Hanuman Dhoka, Paravati Temple, Great Bell and Drum, Bhairav and Taleju Temple.

Enjoy a farewell dinner with the group at the hotel. (B,D) Day 13 Kathmandu to UK | Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B) Departure

8 Jun 2016

Group size

Min 8, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£3415 per person £390

Prices includes flights, Bhutan visa, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

Price excludes Nepalese visa.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Bhutan Specialist on 0117 280 0121

53

Highlights of Borneo

This brand new group tour will introduce you to a wildliferich island of deep green jungle, rugged mountains and meandering rivers. Seek out remote longhouses, trek through pristine rainforests, spot pygmy elephants on the Kinabatangan River and encounter the warmth of the Bornean locals who call this beautiful country their home.

Day 1 Fly to Kuching | Fly to Sarawak and transfer to the Hilton Kuching.

Day 2 Kuching to Bako National Park | Take a boat ride to Bako National Park to spot proboscis and silver leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, wild boars, monitor lizards and numerous bird species amongst the tropical forest. (B,L) Day 3 Kuching to Batang Ai National Park | Drive to Batang Ai reservoir with a stop at Lachau Bazaar on the way to stroll around the small native market. Arrive at Batang Ai Lake and travel by longboat upriver to Nanga Sumpa Lodge. (B,L,D) Day 4 Enseluai Waterfall & Jambu Longhouse | Hike the jungle trails along the Delok River before taking a longboat to the small community of Jambu, possibly stopping to watch a demonstration of Iban-style fishing using a Jala or throw net on the way.

Explore Jambu longhouse before continuing your journey upriver to

the scenic Enseluai Waterfall for a riverside BBQ lunch and a swim in the crystal clear pool. (B,L,D) Day 5 Batang Ai National Park to Kuching | Explore jungle trails in the morning before returning overland to Kuching. (B,L) Day 6 Fly to Sandakan | Fly to Sandakan and transfer to the MY Nature Resort located a short walk from Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary.

Afternoon at leisure. (B,D) Day 7 Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary & Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre | Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary to witness the Orangutans feeding and the Bornean Sun Bear Centre.

Embark on a boat cruise up the lower Kinabatangan River passing mangrove forests to reach Abai Jungle Lodge.

Relax or explore the nature boardwalk before boarding another cruise in search of monkeys, birds, reptiles and pygmy elephants. Return to the lodge for a guided night walk in search of nocturnal wildlife. (B,L,D) Day 8 Pitas Lake & Abai Village | Take an early boat to Pitas Lake for a wildlife viewing trip and return to the lodge for breakfast. Visit nearby Abai Village to participate in a tree planting project and enjoy lunch with one of the local families. Return to the lodge for another wildlife cruise along the Kinabatangan River. (B,L,D) Day 9 Rainforest Discovery Centre | Cruise back down the Kinabatangan River to reach Sandakan. Visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre, an

education centre located within the Kabili Sepilok Forest Reserve. Walk along the 147 metre long canopy walkway which reaches 28 metres above the forest floor in some places.

Enjoy this unique view of Sabah’s Rainforest and look out for 250 species of bird. Overnight in MY Nature Resort. (B,L,D) Day 10 Kinabalu National Park | Depart overland to Kinabalu National Park. The afternoon is free in the park to walk the jungle trails. (B,L,D) Day 11 Kinabalu Park & Poring | Drive to Timpohon Gate which is 1,524m above sea level and take an optional trek along the mountain trail. Return to the park for a nature walk and visit the botanical gardens before departing for Poring Hot Springs. Take a dip in the soothing hot springs set amongst beautifully landscaped gardens.

Explore jungle trails and observe wildlife on the canopy walkway fixed 100 feet above the forest floor before making your way to Kota Kinabalu . (B,L) Days 12 & 13 Kota Kinabalu to the UK | Enjoy a free day to explore Kota Kinabalu. Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. (B)

Departure

8 Sep 2016

Group size

Min 6, Max 12

Prices from Single supp

£2975 per person £295

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Borneo Specialist on 0117 280 0121

55

Explore Papua New Guinea

56 Talk to a Xxxxxxxxxx Specialist on 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

Offering a heady mix of traditional tribal encounters, jungle exploration in wildlife-rich environments and pristine sandy beaches, Papua New Guinea is as diverse as they come. From witnessing the Huli Wigmen in the highlands region to the Asaro Mudmen of the Goroka district, this brand new group tour will get you under the skin of this captivating country with opportunities to immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals.

Day 1 Fly to Port Moresby/Tari | Fly to Port Moresby and board another flight to Tari. (L,D) Day 2 Tari | Enjoy the day exploring Tari. Choose from a variety of excursions including face painting in Tigibi Village, visiting the women’s houses in Horonapa, visiting Wapia for a spirit and sun dance or Boriba Akau village to see the famous Huli Wigmen.

You will also get the opportunity to spot up to 13 species of birds of paradise and hike the beautiful nature walks in this world renowned bird watching area. (B,L,D) Day 3 Tari to Mt Hagen | Fly to the country’s third largest city, Mt Hagen.

Check in to the hotel. (B) Day 4 Goroka | Today, drive through the luscious Wahgi Valley along extensive tea plantations to reach Goroka. On this journey travel through

Chimbu Province, where you will stop for a village visit and a unique Omo Masalai performance where tribal members paint skeleton images on their bodies and recreate a traditional dance. (B,L) Day 5 Goroka | Enjoy an Asaro Mudman village tour. and after a traditional mumu lunch (food cooked in an earth oven) visit an ancestral cave and enjoy a ghost dance performance. (B,L) Day 6 Goroka | Gain a firsthand experience of traditional village life in a local Chimbu village. Learn techniques and methods which haven’t changed for many years including; making traditional weapons, musical instruments and bilum (string bags).

In the afternoon, explore Goroka and visit the bustling local market, coffee factory and the informative JK McCarthy Museum. (B,L) Day 7 Goroka to Rabaul | Fly to Rabaul, East New Britain – one of the earliest civilized provinces of Papua New Guinea and one of the most visually stunning parts of the country. Transfer to your hotel in Rabaul and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B) Day 8 Rabaul | Visit a local village and enjoy a lunch of ‘aigir’, a tasty traditional East Britain dish of vegetables cooked in coconut milk.

Explore the town of Kokopo and visit the Vunapope Church, Kokopo Museum and the lively Kokop local market. In the evening, watch a Baining Fire Dance – a dance prepared by young men for up to one month in

advance. Try to stay awake as the ceremony continues into the early hours of the morning or until the burning embers are extinguished. (B,L) Day 9 Rabaul | Take a morning cruise around Simpson Harbour. Get up close to the foot of Mt Tavurvur, where the megapodes lay their eggs in the volcanic ash to keep them incubated. Meet the Matupit villagers who dig these eggs: there is the chance to boil your own egg in the volcanic heated water. Return to Rabaul town and enjoy lunch at the Rabaul Hotel – one of the last buildings left standing after the devastating volcanic eruption in 1994. (B,L) Day 10 Rabaul to Port Moresby | Fly to Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, and meet your guide for a city tour. Visit the impressive National Parliament built in the manner of a Maprik-style haus tambaran (spirit house) and the National Museum where you can marvel at a selection of local artefacts including masks, shields, totems, war relics and contemporary art. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B) Day 11 Port Moresby to Singapore | Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Singapore. (B)

Departure

18 Oct 2016

Group size

Min 8, Max 16

Prices from Single supp

£5495 per person £995

Price includes Inter-Asia flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

Price excludes Papua New Guinea visa.

www.regent-holidays.co.uk | Talk to a Papua New Guinea Specialist on 0117 280 0121

57

Booking Conditions Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully.

They contain important information about your holiday contract.

Regent Holidays specialise in travel to unusual destinations, many of which still remain relatively underdeveloped and without the facilities and service levels found in western European countries.

When you book an alternative holiday with us we will of course do everything we can to provide you with a holiday exactly to your specification, however it is important to understand that this type of travel carries the risk that accommodation, transportation schedules and other parts of the holiday may be subject to local alterations beyond our control and occurring at short notice. You may also find that standards are lower than you have come to expect and we ask that you take this into consideration before booking.

1. CONTRACT Your contract is with Regent Holidays, a brand of ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited, Concorde House, Canal Street, Chester, UK, CH1 4EJ, company registration number 8687765. Referred to as “the company”, “we”, “us” and “our” in this contract. They only apply to holiday arrangements which you book with us in the UK and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these booking conditions to “holiday”, “booking”, “contract”, “package”, “tour” or “arrangements” mean such holiday arrangements unless otherwise stated. A binding contract is only entered into when we issue a confirmation invoice. By contacting us or your travel agent to make a booking you accept that you have the authority to bind all members of your party to these terms and conditions. It is essential that you check the travel details on the confirmation invoice and inform us immediately of any errors. Your booking is also subject to the conditions of carriage of your chosen airline.

58

2. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2786).

When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in

those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder.

However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.

We are also a member of ABTA (ABTA number V2359). If your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday by ensuring you receive a refund or, if your arrangements include return travel to the UK (other than flights) you are returned to the UK in the event that your holiday cannot be provided as a result of our insolvency. Please go to www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme of Financial Protection.

3. PRICE POLICY All prices advertised or quoted are per person based on sharing a twin/double room and are in pounds sterling unless otherwise shown and are subject to change, up or down, until the booking is confirmed.

After that, we will only increase the price in limited circumstances to reflect increases in transportation costs (including fuel and airfares), dues, government approved taxes (including VAT), both in the UK and overseas, fees chargeable for services (including landing taxes and embarkation and disembarkation and security fees at airports), Government action or exchange rate variation. If the surcharge would increase the cost of your holiday by 10% or more, you may cancel your holiday and receive a full refund. We will absorb the cost, and you will not be charged, of any increase equivalent to or up to 2% of the original price of your holiday (excluding amendment fees). No surcharges will be made within 30 days of departure.

Prices in this brochure were calculated at the exchange rate of £1 = €1.35 and £1 = USD1.56.

4. TRAVEL INSURANCE Your holiday package with us does NOT include travel insurance and we believe that it is essential to take out comprehensive travel insurance when you go on holiday and we strongly recommend that to do so is in your interests and those of your family. We also ask that you provide us with the details of your insurer, the policy number and the emergency contact details to assist you in the event of an accident or emergency abroad. It will be necessary for you to comply with the requirements of the policy in the event of a potential claim; e.g. reporting a theft to the local police. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs.

5. PAYMENT FOR YOUR HOLIDAY Your deposit is considered part payment towards your holiday. The exact deposit required shall be made clear at time of quotation/booking. On occasion full payment may be required to secure certain elements of your trip; if this does arise we shall inform you of this at time of booking. Deposits are non-refundable and as such are a security towards confirming your holiday. Normally the balance and final payment should be made no less than eight weeks prior to departure. However, on occasion some components and/or destinations may require final payment no less than 90 days prior to departure, in which case you shall be informed of this at time of booking. If any balance remains unpaid, travel documentation will not be issued and we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and apply the cancellation charges set out below. Final travel documents will normally be sent out approximately two weeks before departure. All money paid to a travel agent will be held by the agent on our behalf. Payment must be in the currency of the invoice and you are responsible for bank charges. Full payment, deposits and balances made with a credit or charge card (switch and debit cards excluded) will automatically incur an additional 2% charge and 2.5% for Amex of the payment.

6. BROCHURE AND WEBSITE ACCURACY Whilst we make every effort to ensure that the information in our brochure is as accurate as possible, it is published many months before your holiday takes place. We reserve the right to make changes to the brochure and any information it contains. You will be informed of any material changes before booking.

Regent Holidays are only responsible for information contained within our own publications and websites.

We are specifically not responsible for third party information (from tourist boards and hotels for example) contained in any other brochures or websites.

7. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY YOU (A) AMENDMENT We will do our best to assist you in altering your arrangements after booking but cannot guarantee that this will be possible. If alterations can be made you will be responsible for all extra charges and costs and we reserve the right to charge an administration fee £50 per booking plus any applicable charges levied by our suppliers. In some cases, flights cannot be changed after booking and the full cost of a new air ticket will be payable. We also reserve the right to treat any amendment less than eight weeks prior to departure as a cancellation and apply the cancellation charges set out below.

(B) CANCELLATION All cancellations must be made in writing by the person who made the booking and are effective on the day we receive it. As we incur substantial costs and losses on a cancellation, we will apply the following cancellation charges based on payment/ balance date of eight weeks prior to departure. For those bookings where additional amounts were paid in excess of the standard deposit at the time of booking or before the standard balance due date, these shall be considered non refundable.

Number of days prior to departure Cancellation charge as percentage of total holiday price when cancellation notice received Up to 56 days Forfeit deposit 55-43 Days 50% 42-31 Days 75% 30 Days or less 100% Agents or third party organisations acting on our behalf are unable to amend or change the contract or terms and conditions within it.

8. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY US (A) AMENDMENTS It is occasionally necessary for us to make changes to advertised products and services and we reserve the right to make such changes. In exceptional circumstances we may have to modify your holiday after booking. If the change is minor we will do our best to notify you in advance but are not obliged to do so and no compensation is payable. If the change is material (for example, a change of flight time by more than twelve hours, change of destination or to a lower standard of accommodation), we will notify you as soon as practically possible and offer you the choice of (i) accepting the alternative arrangements or (ii) arranging an alternative holiday with us or (iii) cancelling your holiday. Whichever option you choose we will pay you compensation unless the change has been caused by force majeure or low bookings as defined below.

Days before departure Compensation per person 57 Nil 56-29 £40 28-15 £50 14-0 £70 (B) CHANGES DURING THE HOLIDAY If we are unable to provide a significant proportion of your holiday whilst you are away, suitable alternative arrangements will be made for you at no extra cost or, if we are unable to do so, you will be returned to your point of departure and given a pro-rata refund for any part of the holiday not received. This does not apply to minor changes in your accommodation, itinerary or transportation.

(C) CANCELLATION BY US Whilst we hope we will never have to cancel your holiday, this does very occasionally happen and we reserve the right to do so. Should it be necessary to cancel your holiday we will endeavour to offer alternative travel arrangements of equivalent or similar standard, together with a price refund if appropriate. Alternatively we will provide a full and prompt refund.

(D) FORCE MAJEURE Compensation will not be payable in any cases where an amendment, change or cancellation is due to “force majeure”, defined as unusual or unforeseeable events or circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which neither we nor our suppliers could avoid. These include, but are not limited to, war, threat of war, riot, civil disturbance or strife, terrorist activity (actual or threatened), industrial disputes, technical or maintenance problems with transport, machinery or equipment, power failure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, flood, drought, adverse weather conditions, levels of water in rivers, acts of God, closure of airports, changes of schedules or operational decisions of transport providers.

(E) LOW BOOKINGS Compensation is not payable if a holiday or tour does not take place because a required minimum number of passengers to enable the holiday or tour to take place has not been reached and you were informed of that requirement at the time of booking. We will notify you at least eight weeks before departure if your holiday has not reached the minimum number and is therefore cancelled and where possible we will offer a similar holiday on a different date or an alternative holiday departing at or around the original date.

9. OUR RESPONSIBILITIES TO YOU We take care to ensure that all involved in the preparation and supply of your holiday maintain the highest standards. Please remember that the appropriate standards will be those prevalent in your destination which may not be the same as developed international standards. We will pay reasonable compensation (subject to below) if the product

supplied to you is not of the standard described or contracted for by you. This compensation will be limited (except in the case of death or injury) to no more than twice the holiday price of the person affected. Should you suffer injury, illness or death as a result of the proven fault of ourselves, our suppliers or their employees acting in the course of their employment we will offer you compensation as would be paid in an English Court. If the incident relating to you or any member of your party being killed, injured or becoming ill during or as a result of, carriage by aircraft, ship, train or coach as part of the holiday arrangements organised by us our liability to pay compensation is limited in accordance with the liability of the carrier/service provider under any international convention which governs such services. Copies of these Conventions are available upon request. Our liability to you does not apply if you or any member of your group is at fault; if the failure is the fault of someone else not connected with providing the services which form part of our holiday contract with you; the failure is due to any unusual or unexpected circumstances beyond our control, which we could not have avoided even if we had used all care possible or the failure is due to any event which we or the supplier of any service could not help, expect or prevent. Any acceptance of liability is subject to you agreeing to assign to us your rights against any third party responsible for the events leading to your claim and to you affording us all necessary assistance in pursuing that claim.

10. COMPLAINTS AND ABTA ARBITRATION Whilst we aim to ensure that your holiday runs smoothly, there may be times when it does not.

Please follow the complaints procedure below to minimise inconvenience to all parties: 1. Any complaint should be reported immediately and directly to the supplier and, as soon as possible, to our local representative (where applicable). If you fail to follow this simple procedure, your right to claim compensation may be affected, as we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify the problem.

2. In the unlikely event that neither our representative nor our supplier is able to resolve the matter to your complete satisfaction, please put in writing the details of your complaint to us either at our address or by email regent@regent-holidays.co.uk 3. Once in receipt of a complaint, we will react swiftly to resolve the matter. Our aim is to rectify any shortcomings immediately, so that you can fully enjoy the remainder of your holiday. If you still have cause for complaint on your return to the UK, you are required to seek satisfaction by writing to the Company within 28 days of the end of your holiday and providing full details of the holiday and the reason for dissatisfaction. We regret that we cannot accept liability in relation to any complaint or claim which is not notified entirely in accordance with this clause.

Disputes arising out of, or in connection with your booking which cannot be amicably settled may be referred to arbitration if you so wish under a special scheme arranged by ABTA Ltd and administered independently. The scheme provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on the customer in respect of costs. Full details will be provided on request or can be obtained from the ABTA website (www.abta.com). The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your application for arbitration and other required documents must be received by ABTA within 18 months of your return from the holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the scheme may still be available if we agree, although the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA mediation procedure and we have the option to agree to this. Where we act as agent, please bear in mind that your contract is with the supplier of the arrangements concerned. Unless the supplier is also a member of ABTA, only disputes relating to our actions as agent can be dealt with by the arbitration scheme or mediation procedure and not complaints about the arrangements themselves or the acts/omissions of the supplier.

11. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND OTHER ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTATION It is your responsibility to ensure that all necessary passports are machine readable. You should also ensure that all necessary visas, international driving licences, vaccinations and other health documents are in order. All passports must have a validity of at least six months from your scheduled return date to the UK. You will generally need clear/clean pages for visas, as required, to be inserted. You must read all documentation that is supplied to you and ensure that all information contained within is correct.

Failure to do so may incur amendment charges which are your responsibility. Some countries and airlines now require additional passenger information (API). We will inform you which countries require this information. This information is compulsory and is required by authorities. It is essential that all clients provide the API prior to travelling. Failure to provide this information may result in you being denied boarding for your flight.

No refund will be permitted and any additional costs will be borne by the named clients.

12. SPECIAL REQUESTS Whilst we will endeavour to comply with any special requests such as airline seating, diets and room requirements, we can only do so on a “goodwill” basis. As these are usually only provided at the discretion of the relevant supplier, we cannot guarantee availability and cannot be held responsible if they are not provided.

13. MEALS All pre-booked meals on our group tours will be on table d’hôte basis, Supplements can apply for à la carte basis.

14. EXCURSIONS AND ACTIVITIES We are only responsible for excursions and activities sold by us prior to departure and which form part of your holiday contract. Should you purchase excursions in the destination, your contract and any liability arising from it will be with the supplier directly.

15. JURISDICTION We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (“claim”) except as set out below. We both also agree that any claim must be dealt with by the ABTA arbitration scheme referred to above or Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract and any claim governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply).

16. DATA PROTECTION POLICY In order for us to process your booking we need to store and record your information, including data as supplied. This may include transfer of such information outside of the European Economic Area to parties involved in the arrangements of your holiday. Equally we use such information for updating our mailing lists, for fraud prevention, market research and analysis and from time to time you may receive travel related information from us or from another company from within ITC Luxury Travel Group Ltd. Should you not wish to receive such literature please advise us in writing.

17. UK FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE ON OVERSEAS TRAVEL The Foreign & Commonwealth Office produces upto-date travel information to help British travellers make informed decisions about travelling abroad.

For further information please visit www.fco.gov.uk/ knowbeforeyougo or telephone 0870 606 0290.

For full terms and conditions please visit our website

59

AZORES

CENTRAL ASIA

SLOVENIA

CROATIA

BORNEO

ALBANIA

SERBIA

MOLDOVA

NORTH KOREA

KOSOVO PAPUA NEW GUINEA RUSSIA BOSNIA UKRAINE

ROMANIA NAGORNO KARABAKH

FAROE ISLANDS

BHUTAN MONTENEGRO Our Travel Specialists are renowned for their first-hand knowledge of Regent’s alternative destinations. Contact an expert on

0117 280 0121 www.regent-holidays.co.uk/group-tours Regent Holidays is part of the ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited.