TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
ENGLAND
NOVEMBER 2016 - DECEMBER 2016
W E LC O M E
INDIA
TO THE ITC INDIA CRICKET TOUR
ENGLAND
In this brochure we’re delighted to showcase our 2016 tours to this colourful country, the ideal combination of cricket and culture, featuring Test Matches and timeless Indian tourist attractions for the perfect mix of sightseeing and sport. From the epic views of the dramatic Himalayas to the hullabaloo of Delhi’s vibrant markets, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of India’s rich highlights alongside world-class cricket.
It’s been a few years since we were last on tour in India and this country always proves to be a ‘sell-out’ thanks to the fine show the Men in Blue put on for our boys, as well as the opportunity to discover one of the world’s most vibrant cultures. So if you’ve always wanted to visit the Taj Mahal, or ride through Delhi on a rickshaw, the 2016 Test Matches are a great excuse to head east! Alongside the Test Matches, your chosen itinerary will also take in many of the jewels of India, while staying in our handpicked selection of the country’s most highly regarded hotels and resorts. Our longstanding Sports Tour Director Richard Nurse, who many of you will know, has been on a recce to India to finalise the tours and I’m certain his recommendations won’t disappoint.
•• • • •
INDIA
•• CHANDIGARH
•• DELHI
Located in northwest India on the fringes of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, Chandigarh is the capital for both the states of Punjab and Haryana.
An incredible melting pot of cultures, religions and traditions, this vast city is a fantastic optional stop on our tour that will give you a real sense of India’s past and present.
•• MUMBAI The city formerly known as Bombay is a vibrant and cosmopolitan stop on our tour; the home of Bollywood and deemed the most glamorous place in India!
•• CHENNAI •
The East India company’s first settlement, Chennai (formerly known as Madras) is the fourth largest city in India and is located in the south-east, on the Bay of Bengal.
Jamie Smith, Head of Sports
• 02 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
vs
India offers a variety of delights; from snow-covered Himalayan mountains and grand, historic buildings to cosmopolitan city life, glamorous entertainment and beaches. The cricket, crowds, sights, and diversity of life across the sub-continent will surprise, entertain and amaze, all in equal measure. Until you have seen cricket played in the cauldron of intensity that India provides, your spectating experience can’t be truly complete.
I’m delighted to once again introduce you to a fantastic selection of cricket tours created by our team here at ITC Sports Travel. Our passion for sport, and in particular cricket, is the driving force behind each and every one of these itineraries, yet our team also know how precious your time is, ensuring every trip we organise includes all those essential details to give you a fascinating and relaxing holiday alongside the games.
I therefore suggest you make a brew and take a seat, so you can peruse this brochure at leisure and discover what we’re offering for the India v. England Test Match cricket tour 2016. Once you’ve decided, our Sports Specialists will be ready and waiting to inspire you further, create a bespoke trip just for you and sign you up to one of our Platinum or Cricketer itineraries. I’m certain you’ll have a wonderful tour and look forward to hearing your feedback on your return.
Test Matches:
- 2016 TOURS -
•• SHIMLA A ‘must-see’ on your tour of India, Shimla is a beautiful, friendly hill town with a fascinating history, set in the north-west Himalayas and surrounded by pine forests.
•• AGRA The former capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic ‘monument to love’, the Taj Mahal.
•• JAIPUR India’s first planned city and the gateway to Rajasthan is known as the ‘Pink City’ due to the distinct colour of its buildings. It has a regal history that still resonates today.
01 02 03 04 05
R AJKOT 09 - 13 NOVEMBER, 2016 VISAKHAPATNAM 17 - 21 NOVEMBER, 2016 MOHALI 26 - 30 NOVEMBER, 2016 MUMBAI 08 - 12 DECEMBER, 2016 CHENNAI 16 - 20 DECEMBER, 2016
ODI Series:
01 02 03
PUNE 15 JANUARY, 2017 CUTTACK 19 JANUARY, 2017 KOLKATA 22 JANUARY, 2017
Twenty20:
01 02 03
KANPUR 26 JANUARY, 2017 NAGPUR 29 JANUARY, 2017 BANGALORE 01 FEBRUARY, 2017
TEST MATCH SERIES | 2016 TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
INDIA
ENGLAND
Our Platinum Tour promises the very best in accommodation at all Test Match destinations, and as always on our hosted cricket tours includes experiences like no other, with excellent match day hospitality and once in a lifetime excursions.
23 NOVEMBER
02 DECEMBER
06 DECEMBER
Depart the UK on your scheduled flight to Chandigarh, via Delhi.
A full day at leisure to explore Shimla, described as ‘Queen of the hills’. This popular tourist destination offers breathtaking views of pine forests and Himalayan mountains. This afternoon we invite you to join us for a leisurely Terrace Lunch at The Wildflower Hall.
Today we have arranged a guided visit of Mumbai, a vast and exotic cosmopolitan city. The tour will include visits to see the famous Dabbawalas, Mani Bhawan and Dhobi Ghat.
03 DECEMBER
After a morning at leisure we will travel by boat for lunch at the popular Boardwalk by Flamboyante at Mandwa, serving excellent food in a picturesque beachfront setting.
24 NOVEMBER
The Taj Mahal Palace
You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to The Oberoi Sukhvilas where that evening you’re invited to enjoy a welcome drinks reception with your host and fellow guests.
25 NOVEMBER Wildflower Hall, Shimla
Today is a day at leisure for you to relax and enjoy your hotel and its historic surroundings.
26 NOVEMBER - 30 NOVEMBER INDIA vs ENGLAND - 3RD TEST Mohali Stadium, Chandigarh
Toy Train ride, Shimla
Roundtrip cricket transfers are included throughout the tour. On the evening of the second day you are invited to our State of Play evening: an entertaining and informal review of the day’s play with your host and fellow guests.
01 DECEMBER
04 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
ENGLAND
PL ATINUM TOUR
PL ATINUM TOUR
In true ITC-style you’ll enjoy all the ‘whistles and bells’ of our luxury holiday packages on a Platinum Tour – such as comfortable, air-conditioned transfers and premium room categories – creating a sports holiday of true flair and indulgence.
vs
Following breakfast you’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to the beautiful hill town of Shimla, for 4 nights’ accommodation at The Wildflower Hall. ITC guests are invited to enjoy arrival drinks with their hosts.
Today we have arranged a guided walking tour of Shimla with lunch at The Oberoi Cecil Hotel. A delightful Toy Train ride on one of the most beautiful railways in the world (reaching more than 2,000ft above sea level and boasting panoramic mountain views!) is also included.
04 DECEMBER Today we have included a guided tour of Shimla taking in its historic landmarks and a visit to The Mall, the city’s main shopping area with local handicrafts, restaurants and a theatre.
05 DECEMBER Following a leisurely breakfast you’ll be transferred to Chandigarh Airport for your flight to Mumbai for your 8-night stay at the Taj Mahal Palace.
07 DECEMBER
08 – 12 DECEMBER INDIA vs ENGLAND - 4TH TEST Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai On the evening of Day 2 of the 4th test we have organised a second State of Play event, and on Day 5 you’re invited to our special farewell dinner at the Royal Willingdon Sports Club.
The Oberoi Sukhvilas, Chandigarh
13 DECEMBER Those of you who have chosen not to extend your cricket tour of India will be met at your hotel and transferred to Mumbai Airport for your flight to London. __
Prices from £7,995 per person Based on 2 adults sharing, including flights and transfers
The hills surrounding Shimla
Agra Fort
TEST MATCH SERIES | 2016
TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
INDIA
ENGLAND
vs
TEST MATCH SERIES | 2016
ENGLAND
INDIA
P L AT I N U M P R E-T O U R E X T E N S I O N
vs
ENGLAND
PL ATINUM 5TH TEST MATCH EXTENSION
PL ATINUM TOUR EXTENSIONS
In addition to our India vs England 2016 Test Match Series Platinum Tour we are offering the chance to extend your tour of India – either with a pre-tour 5-night stay in Delhi, or with a post-tour extension to take in the 5th Test in Chennai.
19 NOVEMBER
23 NOVEMBER
13 DECEMBER
You’ll receive VIP meet and greet at Delhi airport, from where you’ll be transferred to The Imperial hotel for your 5-night stay.
A morning to do as you please, followed by a tour of New Delhi on an auto-rickshaw!
For those of you wishing to extend your stay in India, you’ll be transferred to Mumbai Airport for your flight to Chennai and a stay at the Vivanta by Taj, Fisherman’s Cove, for 3 nights. On this first evening we invite you to join your host and fellow guests for welcome drinks.
20 NOVEMBER
Both include luxury accommodation and carefully planned itineraries to ensure you get the most out of your stay in India.
Following a hearty breakfast, you can spend your first day in Delhi at your leisure. Transport will be available should you require it.
On the final day of your pre-tour extension you will fly to Chandigarh to join the rest of the Platinum Tour group. __
21 NOVEMBER
Prices from £1,595 per person
Today we have arranged a morning visit of Old Delhi by rickshaw, with the afternoon to do as you please! Taj Mahal, Agra
24 NOVEMBER
22 NOVEMBER ITC has arranged an early morning transfer to the railway station for your tour to Agra. Here you’ll have the chance to visit the famous Taj Mahal, with lunch at the Oberoi Amarvilas. A post-lunch visit to Agra Fort is also included, with early evening transfers back to your hotel.
Based on 2 adults sharing, including flights and transfers
14 DECEMBER Today is a day at leisure to enjoy the excellent facilities at your hotel or for sightseeing in Chennai; visit the city’s temples and museums or perhaps take a leisurely walk along the beach.
15 DECEMBER Oberoi Amarvilas
Today is a further day at leisure in Chennai.
forwarded to The Leela Palace, Chennai in preparation for our arrival after the match. All roundtrip cricket transfers are included during the Chennai Test, and on the final evening we will celebrate the tour with a farewell dinner.
21 DECEMBER Today you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Chennai Airport for your departure flight to London. __
Prices from £1,995 per person Based on 2 adults sharing, including flights and transfers
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
16 - 20 DECEMBER INDIA vs ENGLAND - 5TH TEST Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai On the first morning of the 5th Test we leave the hotel and transfer to Chidambaram Stadium for a full day’s cricket. Your luggage will be
Shimla alternative itinerary 06 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
You will notice that our Platinum Tour includes a visit to the unique city of Shimla. If you have travelled with us to India previously and would prefer an alternative to this unusual destination, we suggest instead working The Golden Triangle into your itinerary. See Page 9 for further details on this legendary tourist trail, or speak to a Sports Travel Specialist for additional suggestions.
TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
ENGLAND
PL ATINUM HOTELS
For our Platinum guests heading to India with us we’ve hand selected properties which we know will ‘wow’ you, each offering something unique in its own exceptional setting. These resorts are all favourites in our portfolio for their own distinct reasons and having visited them ourselves, we know you’ll receive first-class service. We will be welcoming guests from both our Platinum and Cricketer tours at two of our chosen hotels in India at which our Platinum guests can expect higher room categories.
The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa, Chandigarh
The Imperial New Delhi, Delhi
This luxury resort has only just opened its doors, offering an elegant retreat surrounded by protected natural forest and boasting a spectacular secluded spa. Dining at the resort’s Indian restaurant (nestled within the trees at the end of a charming forest trail) is a ‘must’. Your Premier Room is filled with natural light and views of the forest thanks to its large windows, with an indulgent bathroom which overlooks a private landscaped garden.
One of Asia’s finest hotels, this iconic hotel blends a rich historical past with truly international appeal. It offers large colonial-style rooms with high ceilings and thematic décor and a stroll through its corridors will reveal rare and original art. Guests to The Imperial can dine in award-winning restaurants and wander in lush, cool gardens, all just steps away from the renowned shopping district of Janpath and major city attractions.
Accommodation will be in a Premier Room on a bed & breakfast basis
Accommodation will be in a Heritage Room on a bed & breakfast basis
The Wildflower Hall, Shimla
Vivanta by Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Chennai
With outstanding panoramic views of the Himalayas, this unique location - perched 8,000ft above sea level within 23 acres of protected cedar forest - makes The Wildflower Hall a very special place indeed. The Restaurant here is renowned for its sumptuous and varied menu with world-class views, while the spa and indoor swimming pool create the perfect backdrop to relax after a day spent walking the surrounding nature trails.
This scenic beachside resort built on the fortifications of an 18th century Dutch fort boasts numerous facilities including a swimming pool, signature Jiva Spa, 24-hour fitness centre and a tennis court. Enjoy delicious fare at Seagull Restaurant; seafood at Bay View restaurant looking out to the beach; Mediterranean cuisine at Upper Deck and cocktails at the bar. We have arranged accommodation in the spacious private Cottages for guests on our Platinum Tour.
Accommodation will be in a Premier Mountain Room on a bed & breakfast basis
Accommodation will be in a Cottage on a bed & breakfast basis
The Golden Triangle Discover India’s famous ‘Golden Triangle’ on your cricket tour, an area steeped in history and containing some of India’s most iconic sites: the three points of the ‘Golden Triangle’ being three of India’s most captivating cities. Encounter the country’s capital, Delhi, a bustling metropolis that has to be seen to be believed. Visit Agra and the Taj Mahal, surely one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Then there’s Jaipur, where the striking sights of the Amber Fort and City Palace await. Speak to our Sports Specialists about making this legendary tourist trail a part of your journey into India.
Delhi • Jaipur •
• Agra
INDIA Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai
The Leela Palace, Chennai
Built in 1903, this architectural marvel is a truly historic monument in this bustling city; the place to ‘see and be seen’ in Mumbai. A member of ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ and located near to the Gateway of India it offers an indulgent base for your stay in the city. The generously spaced accommodation and a selection of fine restaurants, bars and lounges make it a favourite stop on our tour of India.
This sea-facing property is a foodie favourite, with the awardwinning Jamavar offering a particularly special take on Indian cuisine in an opulent, elegant dining space. The 12-room ESPA in The Leela Palace is perfect for a spot of downtime after the hustle and bustle of the city and the exhilaration of the cricket. Your Deluxe Sea View room is extremely spacious, boasting a bathroom with spa mood lighting, deep-soaking tub and separate glasswalled shower.
Accommodation will be in a Luxury Grand Sea View Room on a bed & breakfast basis
08 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
Accommodation will be in a Deluxe Sea View Room on a bed & breakfast basis
TEST MATCH SERIES | 2016
TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
INDIA
ENGLAND
CRICKETER TOUR
Whichever of our tours inspires you, our Sports Travel Specialists are at the end of the line to offer advice and suggestions for your cricket holiday.
Shimla
23 NOVEMBER
02 DECEMBER
07 DECEMBER
Depart the UK on your scheduled flight to Chandigarh, via Delhi.
Today we have included a guided walking tour of Shimla that includes a Toy Train ride on one of the most beautiful railways in the world.
Today is a further day at leisure in Mumbai.
24 NOVEMBER
Oberoi Cecil
Taj Mahal, Agra
03 DECEMBER
Upon arrival you’ll be met and transferred to Vivanta by Taj, Chandigarh for a 7-night stay. This evening you’re invited to enjoy a welcome drinks reception with your host and fellow guests.
A full day at leisure to explore Shimla and in the afternoon we invite you to join your host and fellow guests for a leisurely Terrace Lunch at the Wildflower Hall.
25 NOVEMBER
04 DECEMBER
Today is a day at leisure for you to relax and explore.
Today we have included a guided tour of Shimla that includes historic landmarks and a visit to The Mall, the main shopping area.
26 - 30 NOVEMBER INDIA vs ENGLAND | 3RD TEST Mohali Stadium, Chandigarh Roundtrip cricket transfers are included throughout the Test Series, and on the evening of Day 3 you are invited to join us for a State of Play review of the cricket so far.
01 DECEMBER
10 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
ENGLAND
CRICKETER TOUR
India provides the ideal combination of cricket and culture, and watching Test Matches a fortnight before Christmas is the ideal way to sample the Indian experience. Our Cricketer Tours offer plenty of inspirational activities away from the grounds to ensure you fully immerse yourself in the destination as well as its national game. With a lower package price than our Platinum Tours, you can expect superb value and a meticulously planned itinerary.
vs
Today you’ll be transferred by coach to Shimla for 4 nights’ accommodation at The Oberoi Cecil Hotel. This evening you are invited to enjoy arrival drinks with your host and fellow guests.
05 DECEMBER Following a leisurely breakfast you’ll be met at your hotel and transferred to Chandigarh Airport for your flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival you’ll be taken to The Oberoi for your 8-night stay.
06 DECEMBER After a leisurely morning we will travel by boat to the popular Boardwalk by Flamboyante at Mandwa for a relaxed lunch of excellent local food in a picturesque beachfront setting.
08 - 12 DECEMBER INDIA vs ENGLAND | 4TH TEST, DAY 1 Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai During the 4th Test you are invited to join us for a State of Play evening, as well as a farewell tour dinner at the exclusive Royal Willingdon Sports Club on the last night.
Vivanta by Taj, Fisherman’s Cove
The Oberoi Mumbai
13 DECEMBER Those of you who have chosen not to extend your cricket tour will be met and transferred to Mumbai Airport for your return flight to London. __
Prices from £5,945 per person Based on 2 adults sharing, including flights and transfers The Oberoi, Mumbai
TEST MATCH SERIES | 2016
TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
INDIA
ENGLAND
vs
TEST MATCH SERIES | 2016
ENGLAND
C R I C K E T E R P R E-T O U R E X T E N S I O N
INDIA
vs
ENGLAND
CRICKETER 5TH TEST MATCH EXTENSION
CRICKETER TOUR EXTENSIONS
In addition to our Cricketer Tour we are offering the chance to extend your tour, or simply choose a shorter itinerary in place of the main tour, to take in the 5th Test in Chennai. Alternatively, you can join us early in Delhi for a 5-night stay which includes a visit to the Taj Mahal. On both tour extensions you’ll enjoy luxury accommodation.
19 NOVEMBER
23 NOVEMBER
13 DECEMBER
You’ll be met at Delhi airport, from where you’ll be transferred to the Taj Palace hotel for your 5-night stay.
A morning to relax at your hotel, followed by a tour of New Delhi on an auto-rickshaw!
20 NOVEMBER
24 NOVEMBER
For those wishing to extend their stay in India, transfers have been arranged to Chennai for a stay at the Vivanta by Taj, Fisherman’s Cove for 3 nights. On this first evening we invite you to join your tour host and fellow guests for welcome drinks.
Following breakfast, spend your first day in Delhi at your leisure. There is transport at your disposal should you require it.
On the final day of your pre-tour extension you will fly to Chandigarh to join the rest of the Platinum Tour group. __
21 NOVEMBER Today we have arranged a morning tour of Old Delhi by cycle-rickshaw, with the afternoon to do as you please.
Prices from £1,345 per person Based on 2 adults sharing, including flights and transfers
22 NOVEMBER An early morning transfer by train will take you to Agra where you’ll have the chance to visit the famous Taj Mahal, with lunch at the Jaypee Palace. A post-lunch wander around the Agra Fort is also included before your return train to Delhi.
14 DECEMBER Today is a day at leisure to enjoy the excellent facilities at your hotel or for sightseeing in Chennai: visit the city’s temples and museums or take a leisurely walk along the beach.
15 DECEMBER
forwarded to The Hyatt Regency, Chennai in preparation for your arrival after the match. All roundtrip cricket transfers are included during the Chennai Test, and on the final evening we will celebrate the tour with a farewell dinner.
21 DECEMBER Today you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Chennai Airport for your departure flight to London. __
Prices from £1,595 per person Based on 2 adults sharing, including flights and transfers
Today is a further day at leisure in Chennai.
16 - 20 DECEMBER INDIA VS ENGLAND - 5TH TEST Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai On the first morning of the 5th Test we leave the hotel and transfer to Chidambaram Stadium for a full day’s cricket. Your luggage will be
Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Chennai
Shimla alternative itinerary (The Golden Triangle) 12 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
You will notice that our Cricketer Tour includes a visit to the unique city of Shimla. If you have travelled with us to India previously and would prefer an alternative to this unusual destination, we suggest instead working The Golden Triangle into your itinerary. See Page 9 for further details on this legendary tourist trail, or speak to a Sports Travel Specialist for additional suggestions.
TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
ENGLAND
CRICKETER HOTELS
Our sports tours include resorts and hotels which offer our guests plenty to enjoy away from the sporting action too. We realise that budgets may vary, as well as tastes, which is why we provide plenty of choice to suit personal requirements. As a guide, our Cricketer Tour includes lower priced accommodation than our Platinum Tour, but our Sports Travel Specialists will be delighted to assist you should you require a higher standard of room. We will be welcoming guests from both our Platinum and Cricketer Tours at two of our chosen hotels in India, at which our Cricketer guests can expect standard, lead-in room categories.
14 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
Vivanta by Taj Chandigarh, Chandigarh
The Oberoi, Mumbai
This sophisticated five-star hotel is set in the business and shopping area of Chandigarh. Rooms are spacious and comfortable and include access to The Lounge, where drinks and snacks are served throughout the day. Here you can laze around the rooftop pool, head to the spa for a treatment or if you’re feeling energetic, spend an hour in the state of the art fitness centre.
Centrally located in the heart of Mumbai’s commercial district on Marine Drive, The Oberoi is an elegant hotel offering impeccable service. The hotel offers understated luxury and excellent facilities including an exclusive spa and fitness centre, outdoor pool and a choice of superb dining options. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the luxuriously appointed guestrooms have been elegantly furnished and feature the latest technology.
Accommodation will be in a Deluxe Room on a bed & breakfast basis
Accommodation will be in a Premier Ocean Facing Room on a bed & breakfast basis
The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla
Taj Palace, Delhi
An elegant grand heritage hotel located approximately 6,000ft above sea level and boasting breathtaking views across Shimla valley, the hotel features a beautiful spa, fitness centre and heated swimming pool. Guest rooms offer panoramic views and a comfortable, serene space to relax. Once a glamorous ballroom, the hotel restaurant now serves excellent international cuisine.
Spread across six acres of gardens in the heart of this great city, the Taj Palace is a calming retreat amid the hustle and bustle. Home to several award-winning restaurants, dining here is a delight, while relaxation after a day’s exploring can be found at the tranquil Jiva Spa and outdoor pool. Enjoying a classic afternoon tea at the Tea Lounge is a ‘must’ during your stay.
Accommodation will be in a Luxury Room on a bed & breakfast basis
Accommodation will be in a Luxury City/Pool View Room on a bed & breakfast basis
Hyatt Regency, Chennai
Vivanta by Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Chennai
The Wildflower Hall, Shimla
A contemporary 5-star hotel, the Hyatt Regency in Chennai prides itself on first-class hospitality and service, boasting an array of amenities to make the most of your stay in the city. Alongside the award-winning dining choices are recreation facilities including the Siddh spa, fitness centre and pool, with guests of the hotel enjoying complimentary Wifi and state of the art in-room additions.
Once an impressive Dutch Fort, the Vivanta by Taj, Fisherman’s Cove is set amidst whispering casuarinas and palm trees on miles of fine sand and is now one of the finest beach resorts in Southern India. Here you can bask in the warm glow of friendly service and spacious rooms with views of the white sand beach, lapped by the waters of the Bay of Bengal.
This unique, colonial-style hotel is the former home of Lord Kitchener, set in 22 acres surrounding by pine and cedar trees with outstanding views. The signature Oberoi Spa boasts a heated pool and an outdoor deck with Jacuzzi. Your Deluxe Garden View Room affords views of the croquet lawns and evokes an ‘olde worlde’ charm decorated with teakwood floors and plush rugs.
Accommodation will be in a Guest Room on a bed & breakfast basis
Accommodation will be in a Cottage on a bed & breakfast basis
Accommodation will be in a Deluxe Garden View Room on a bed & breakfast basis
What’s included and what to expect?
TEST MATCH SERIES
INDIA
vs
ENGLAND
WHAT’S INCLUDED AND WHAT TO EXPECT
During our Platinum and Cricketer itineraries in India we will be hosting lunches and excursions, some of which are included dependent on your chosen itinerary. A few of the highlights of these are listed on the next page, but for more information please refer to your chosen itinerary. All featured tours include: • International flights in Economy Class • Cricket match day transfers • Airport and hotel transfers • Transfers to all functions • Exclusive commemorative merchandise; cricket ticket holder, ITC travel wallet • Tour management throughout • Welcome drinks, farewell dinners, organised lunches • Guaranteed cricket tickets; passed on to you at cost
Why ITC Sports Travel? After more than 26 years of creating exceptional sports tours, we’ve learnt more than a thing or two about what our clients enjoy most. During this time we’ve perfected the art of making the most of the destinations we take them to, alongside the very best top sporting fixtures. When we create a tour we endeavour to make the experience as easy and relaxing as possible, so that our guests can literally turn up and go, with all the nitty gritty details taken care of, from personal dietary requirements to extra legroom on the aircraft. As well as the inclusions provided as standard on our tours, we can arrange additional activities and details to suit your needs, such as car hire, excursions and private tours.
16 | WWW.ITCSPORTS.CO.UK | 01244 355 49 9
The Taj Mahal
Tour of Shimla
Boardwalk by Flamboyante, Mumbai
An experience that will stay with you for the rest of your days, the stunning feat of architecture that is the Taj Mahal is often described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love, taking some 22 years to finish! Have your camera at the ready.
Our tour of Shimla takes in the State Museum with its varied collection of historical sculptures and paintings; the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies where you can wander the magnificent lawns; and the historical Mall, the main shopping centre of Shimla.
Following a short boat ride we’ll arrive at this chic waterfront restaurant with its views of Mandwa beach and Mumbai harbour. While you’re watching the boats navigate the waters, enjoy a tasty menu of laidback international fare with by chilled cocktails.
Arrivals & Departures
State of Play
Those of you who have previously travelled with us on a cricket tour will know that our itineraries are designed to be sociable – with plenty of opportunities to mingle with your fellow travellers should you so wish. This aspect of our tours makes them fantastic for single travellers, as well as for couples where one partner prefers alternative activities to the cricket.
For those who haven’t experienced these events before, they take the format of a drinks reception with a panel of celebrity hosts offering their insight on the games and answering any questions you may have. As well as the former England players and professional pundits who travel with us as tour hosts, we will be inviting explayers and other sporting professionals along.
A great way for you to meet your tour group is through our hosted arrival drinks reception; where you’ll have the chance to learn more about the tour, be introduced to your tour host and enjoy a few drinks to boot!
Please note that our tour package prices do not include the cost of the match tickets which will be charged to you at the same cost as ITC Sports Travel is charged for purchasing them.
Our cricket tours are also infamous for creating great friendships, with our farewell dinner the opportune time to swap details and reminisce on your tour highlights.
A NOTE FROM O U R HO STS
I N D IA TO U R
JOINING US IN BOTH INDIA AND THE CARIBBEAN
ALONGSIDE OUR TOUR HOSTS, ALSO HOPING TO JOIN US IN INDIA ARE FORMER ENGLAND INTERNATIONAL CRICKETERS MIKE ATHERTON AND JOHN LEVER
Richard Nurse I never thought that I would be able to say that at 67-years-old I feel like a kid in a sweet store when I look at what ITC Sports Travel has on offer for us in India and the Caribbean. India in November and December promises to be a wonderful experience, with tasty food, fabulous hotels, Tuk-Tuks, and, of course, the cricket-mad Indian supporters. What a cocktail! A country that was once part of the British Empire, and is arguably as good at the game as England, teamed with fascinating sights, luxury accommodation and probably the most hospitable people you will find anywhere. I wouldn’t hesitate to say ‘come and see it for yourself’. Then after we’ve been to India we have the Caribbean to look forward to in March. Three ODI’S in Antigua and Barbados accompanied by Calypso music, and sunshine. Sound good? Absolutely. Sailing on a catamaran, watching turtles feeding in the warm waters and doing the odd boogie in the evening with your fellow friends on tour. It doesn’t get much better than that. Well…it will if England win! Regardless of the score though, a fabulous time is always had by all on ITC Sports tours and Gladstone and I look forward to welcoming you all.
Gladstone Small The 2016 summer season drew to an end with some scintillating batting displays by an ebullient England team, causing attention to quickly look towards the winter tours. Firstly we journey eastward to the hustling and bustling cricket-mad lands in India where the spin friendly conditions will test our players in defending recent victories against a strong Indian team. India is always a fascinating place to visit and I’m certain our fellow ITC Sports tourists will be enthralled by all its charms. Then, where better to defrost the winter blues than to head west to the glorious Caribbean? When you add in a couple of ODI matches against a still, thankfully, competitive West Indies team, where the locals indulge in their party mix of banter, food, music, dance and rum…there’s nowhere better to enjoy the fine game in the sunshine.
Mike Atherton ‘For any cricket lover, an India tour must be the ultimate. Nowhere else in the world is cricket – or cricketers for that matter – held in such reverence, and with that comes the fascination of watching a country change almost before our eyes. I first went to India in 1993, just as cricket and the opening up of the Indian economy combined to help create the modern game, with the emphasis on one-day cricket and the creation of heroes such as Sachin Tendulkar. It is a country that is almost unrecognisable today. The venues for the five Tests – Rajkot, Visakhapatnam, Mohali, Mumbai and Chennai – are a mixture of the traditional and, for English supporters, the new. All of them, though, will hum to the tune of Test cricket which is followed, if not quite with the same frenzy as before, then still avidly. Beyond the cricket, you will get out of the tour what you put in; get out and about, and revel in the sights and sounds and smells of an unforgettable sporting destination. From a purely cricketing perspective the conditions dictate a totally different style and pace of play, with spin dominating, to that which we have become accustomed to in England and that in itself provides a fascinating challenge for the players as they look to repeat their victory of four years ago.’
John Lever ‘A chance to revisit this cricket loving country is a real treat for me. It has always been a difficult place to play the game with changes in pitch speeds and conditions, but the crowds’ passion for the game is exhilarating. I have been fortunate enough to tour here twice (1976 and 1982), playing against world-class players such as Gavaskar, Bedi and Dev and I look forward to watching the new crop of superstars during the 2016 Test.’