USA & Ranch 2015/16

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USA & RANCH AMERICA

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Montana

WE’VE BEEN CREATING AMAZING TRAVEL EXPERIENCES FOR OVER 20 YEARS And when we say creating, we don’t mean simply booking a few hotels and flights, or cobbling together a package deal. We mean genuinely creating unique trips that match every individual wish or whim of our clients to give them memories that last a lifetime. We don’t rest at finding them the perfect beachside hotel or the most authentic cowboy experience, or the liveliest nightspots. We want everything to be exactly right.

We’ve been able to do that for so long thanks to our team of destination experts.

Actually, ‘experts’ is too vague a term for people who live and breathe these incredible destinations. These people have spent years falling in love with travel before turning their passion into their profession.

Which means your travel experience will be put together by someone who knows every nook, every cranny and every five star restaurant, remote beachside shack or temple tour that will make your trip something special.

We’ve scoured the world for interesting angles on some of the most dramatic, beautiful and exotic places you’re ever likely to visit. From the wild horses of the mid West to a tall ship sailing voyage around the Far East, from the graceful tigers of India to a beautiful sunset in the Caribbean, our travel experiences have it all.

Whether you want to shop till you drop or relax as you’ve never relaxed before W&O travel experts know the best possible way to indulge you, your family, or your friends.

In short, we guarantee you a W&Onderful experience.

CONTENTS America 6 Caribbean & USA

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USA by Rail

9

USA Fly-Drives

10

Ranch

12

Iconic Cities

16

New York

18

Chicago

23

Washington

24

San Francisco

25

Western States

26

California

28

Pacific Northwest

34

Las Vegas

36

Arizona

40

Utah

44

Montana

46

Wyoming

48

Colorado

50

Mid West

South Dakota & Idaho

Kansas & Oklahoma

54

56

57

New England The South

60

68

Texas

70

The Deep South

72

North & South Carolina

78

Florida

80

Miami

Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach

Florida Keys

86

Central Florida

88

85

Hawaii Booking Conditions

2

83

90 96

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WHAT’S YOUR KIND OF W&ONDERFUL? If the USA is what you’ve set your heart on, then you’ve already chosen somewhere pretty amazing. But at Western & Oriental we want to improve on amazing by making sure your experience is unique to you.

We’ll help you create a holiday that is your kind of W&Onderful. We’ll find you a ranch holiday that suits you down to the ground. Or arrange a city break that’s truly out of this world. Or direct you to a National Park where you’ll discover the secret heart of this beautiful country. Whatever it takes to make your trip special is what we’re here for.

A MADE TO MEASURE EXPERIENCE

REASSURINGLY SECURE

The USA has so much to offer it can be

We want you to enjoy every aspect of

hard to know where to start, or stop.

your holiday, even before you go. As

So when you talk to our experts you’ll

members of ABTA and ATOL, you have

find they’re full of ideas that help you

the reassurance that your holiday is

create an experience that indulges every

financially protected.

ambition or desire.

EXPERTS WHO LOVE ALL 50 STATES We don’t believe you should be limited

Everything we suggest or recommend

by rigid itineraries or schedules. You

is based on the real experiences of our

tell us what you want and we’ll tell you

USA experts. Our team have visited

when, where and how to make that a

every hotel, bar, restaurant and National

reality, whether that’s rafting through the

Park. They’ve travelled across deserts,

magnificent Grand Canyon, or cruising

through canyons, up mountains and

along the Pacific Highway in the warm

along rivers to find you highlights above

Californian sun.

and beyond the ordinary.

If there’s something particular you

What our experts bring to each

want to see or do, such as see more

destination apart from a fountain of

wildlife, explore more culture, or visit

knowledge is a passion for the USA.

more restaurants, we can arrange pretty

They love this home of the brave and

much anything. If you want to mix and

want you to share the pleasure they’ve

match experiences, states or even other

found here. We don’t think you’ll find

countries, then we can do that too.

that too hard to do!

THE ONLY LIMIT IS YOUR IMAGINATION.

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AMERICA MOTHER NATURE HAD THE USA’S FAVOURITE PHRASE ‘THE BIGGER, THE BETTER’ IN MIND WHEN SHE CREATED ITS DRAMATIC AND GIGANTIC LANDSCAPES. FROM HIKING THROUGH CHASM-SCULPTED CANYON LANDS, SADDLING UP ON A WORKING RANCH IN THE WILD WEST OR SINGING THE BLUES IN THE SOUTH, WE’LL FIND THE USA EXPERIENCE THAT SUITS YOU PERFECTLY. WHEN TO GO

A DIFFERENT STATE FOR

The USA itself is a year-round

A DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE

destination, but if you’ve got a specific

Across the USA, sweeping open

experience in mind then visits to some

grasslands home to rustic cattle ranches

states will need a little more planning.

and snowy jagged mountain ranges

Ranch holidays to Montana, Colorado

coexist in perfect harmony with cities

and Wyoming are best between May

lined with skyscrapers and breezy

and September, while Florida holidays

golden beaches. With 50 states to

in either February or September suit

choose from and no one the same as

visitors wanting to escape the high

another, you can return time and time

season crowds but still enjoy the

again to a different experience. With so

warm weather. To explore Pacific

much to choose from, our destinations

Northwest’s great outdoors or the Wild

can be easily combined for a multi-centre

West national parks across the Rocky

holiday – your only limit is time.

Mountain States, May to September host long sunny days with balmy evenings but if you’re hunting the whitestuff in the mountains – most snow falls between January and February.

GETTING THERE Getting to the USA is simple with direct UK flights to state capitals, and regular connecting flights to smaller cities.

Time zone: GMT – 5 to 8 hours (depending on state) Flight time from the UK: 7 to 11 hours

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THE CARIBBEAN

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS With the Caribbean just a stone’s throw away, it’ll be a shame not to make the most of the tropical islands. Visit the Wild West, and then fly to an island in the middle of paradise. Or enjoy the bright lights of New York, LA and Las Vegas before relaxing at a beach retreat.

NEW YORK & SAINT LUCIA This is a perfect pairing and a popular choice for foodies, who delight in the variety of cuisines: from deli sandwiches to authentic Creole dishes. New York’s bright lights, brilliant shopping and landmark sights impress time after time while the beaches and dramatic mountain landscape of charming Saint Lucia lure all who visit into a relaxed state of being.

NEW YORK & GUADELOUPE Enjoy the attractions of New York including iconic Times Square and Central Park, Macy’s and the shops of Fifth Avenue. Having walked blocks of the city, take in a little bit of French Caribbean on the exotic islands of Guadeloupe. Choose from yellow, white or black sand beaches, dive on pristine coral reefs or climb volcanic mountain peaks BOSTON & DOMINICAN REPUBLIC LAS VEGAS & RIVIERA MAYA

Get your history fix with a stay in Boston, the home

Soak up the buzz of the clubs, casinos, shops and

of the Freedom Trail. The big city has all you need

hotels themselves in the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas

for your shopping desires and has more than enough

before jetting off to enjoy some well-deserved beach

sights to fill up your camera, especially if you get to

time on the Riviera Maya. Las Vegas’ amusements

see the famous Red Sox in action. After the buzz of the

and fun hotels are sure to charm and after a stay

city, relax in the Dominican Republic. Visit picturesque

here, the relaxation the Caribbean offers will

beaches, such as Sanoa Island where the Bounty bar

definitely be appreciated.

advert was filmed. Just make sure to have the chance to get pampered at the many luxury resorts.

MIAMI & TURKS & CAICOS

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If you’re after a mixture of pulsing nightlife and a

COLORADO RANCH & CANCUN

retreat to paradise, then this combination is your

Pack your denim and cowboy boots for this trip to

dream come true. Miami is as electric in the day as

a Colorado Ranch. Experience the ranching lifestyle

it is at night. Zip back into the glamour of the 1950s

under the warm western sun, then rocket down the

along the Art Deco district before throwing yourself

rapids with a thrilling white water rafting adventure.

back into the present at the buzzing and beautiful

We’ve combined this ranch holiday with Cancun so

Miami Beach. A short trip away, the stunning islands

you can relax on soft white-sand beaches and sip a

of Turks and Caicos offer secluded white-sand

Mojito under the canopy of palms. Once the sun sets,

beaches and the ultimate luxury hotels.

the Mexican resort fires up with a vibrant nightlife.

USA BY RAIL

EXPLORE THE USA BY RAIL Travelling throughout the USA by rail is a relaxing experience, avoiding the check-in queues and waiting for your luggage at the airport. Your rail adventure starts downtown the moment you step aboard and settle in to your cosy accommodation.

Choose from a number of the most popular escorted set itineraries, or let us create your own tailor-made rail adventure, criss-crossing this vast country. Take in the spectacular scenery from the comfort of your seat as you travel through bustling metropolises, vast open wilderness areas and wonderful national parks.

Many itineraries include overnight journeys whilst a selection of historic day excursions can also be incorporated into any USA Rail adventure. A trip on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway which follows 45 miles of track along the Animas River in Colorado is a firm favourite, and the Mount Washington Cog Railroad will take you to the highest peak in the Northeast.

SCENIC & HISTORIC RAIL JOURNEYS

COAST TO COAST & GRAND CANYON

CANYONS, GLACIERS & WATERFALLS

DURANGO & SILVERTON NARROW GAUGE RAILWAY Constructed to transport silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado, in the late 1800’s. This historic train has operated continuously between Durango and Silverton since 1882 and now offers visitors a spectacular rail journey of yesteryear through the splendour of Colorado’s breathtaking mountain scenery.

This 14-day independent rail adventure takes you on a journey across the US from the Atlantic to the Pacific Coast, passing through 16 states of America, with three nights spent onboard Amtrak trains and 10 nights in hotels. Visit some of the US’s most iconic cities such as New York, Washington DC, Chicago and Los Angeles and travel aboard the vintage Grand Canyon Railway to the Canyon’s South Rim.

This 17-day tour includes five nights onboard Amtrak. Take in the sights of Chicago and marvel at the breathtaking views at The Grand Canyon.

Look out for celebrities in Los Angeles before travelling along the coast to San Francisco. Board your onward train through the Pacific Northwest to Seattle and then take the Empire Builder to the gorgeous Glacier National Park.

ROYAL GORGE ROUTE RAILROAD Take a scenic two hour rail journey through Colorado’s spectacular steep walled Royal Gorge, a route that resulted in a war between two railroads who were racing to reach upper Arkansas Valley which was rich in lead and silver ores. For a supplement you can enjoy the unique experience of riding in the train cab.

MOUNT WASHINGTON COG RAILROAD Enjoy a three hour round trip on the historic Cog Railroad to the highest peak in the Northeast located in the White Mountains, New Hampshire. At the top visitors can take in the ocean views and look out over several states - on a clear day you can even see Canada.

COAST TO COAST TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Explore New York City on a double decker hop on hop off tour Take in the historical sights of Washington DC

CANYONS, GLACIERS & WATERFALLS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Take Chicago’s hop on hop off trolley tour visiting all of the city’s main attractions

Discover Chicago’s most popular attractions including Navy Pier and Willis Tower

Enjoy a historic rail journey on the Grand Canyon Railway to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park

Board the historic Grand Canyon Railway for a journey from Williams to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park

Explore Los Angeles on the hop on hop off city tour

Go backstage with your Universal Studios attraction pass and learn all about the movies in Los Angeles

Spend a day exploring Yosemite National Park, home to the American Black Bear Search for wildlife and enjoy the grand vistas at Glacier National Park

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FLY-DRIVES IN THE USA A trip to the USA should be an adventure. With 50 states, over five million square miles of land, and nearly 300 cities, there’s more than enough to explore.

That’s why we believe that the best holidays in the US are fly-drive holidays, where you can take to the roads and discover more of the country.

USA ROAD BOOKS To help you along your way, all of our tailor-made fly-drive holidays come complete with road atlas and a personalised road book full of useful information, directions, hotel addresses and contact numbers, maps and ideas of what to stop and see along the way.

THE ALL AMERICAN ROAD TRIP Cruise down the long roads of the States. Get a soft-top and let the warm breeze ruffle your hair. On some routes, you’ll feel as if it’s just you and the road, stretching out for miles and miles.

Stop off at one of the many roadside diners and feel like a local as you order pancakes and black coffee. Chat with others on the road and form bonds with other road-trippers. We can’t recommend a fly-drive holiday enough.

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USA FLY-DRIVES

HISTORIC ROUTE 66 FLY-DRIVE

OKLAHOMA CITY – AMARILLO, TEXAS (263 miles) Is this the way to Amarillo? Follow 200 miles of flat road along the old highway through the Texas Panhandle and cowboy land, to Amarillo.

AMARILLO, TEXAS – ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO (287 miles) It is no longer possible to take Route 66 to Albuquerque, but the I-40

Route 66 or the ‘Mother Road’, is one of the most famous roads

takes you on an interesting route passing ghost towns. Visit Albuquerque

in the world. In 16 days you’ll travel through eight states including

Bio Park and Botanical Gardens.

lllinois, Arizona, Nevada and California. Route 66 is an attraction in itself; visit the filling stations, see the old signage and road markings,

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO – FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA (325 miles)

and stop at the dedicated museums.

There are plenty of photo opportunities with old Route 66 road signs.

Take a drive through Petrified Forest National Park.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Explore the windy city at your leisure, a city of skyscrapers and beaches

FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA – GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA (73 miles)

of Lake Michigan. Take in a baseball game at Wrigley Field or an

Explore this natural wonder of the world at your leisure. Take a

architecture river cruise.

spectacular helicopter flight over the canyon and land in the base to understand its grand size.

CHICAGO – SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS (208 miles) Begin your epic journey at Lake Shore Drive, said to be the start of Route

GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA – NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA (238 miles)

66. Some oddities along the way include the Gemini Giant, a 28 foot

Pass through the Hualapai Valley along Route 66. Enjoy a meal at River

tall spaceman, Cozy Dog Drive Inn, and Dixie Truckers Home in McLean

Runners restaurant by Peach Springs Route 66 filling station.

– the oldest truck stop in America.

NEEDLES – LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (260 miles) SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI – OKLAHOMA CITY (283 miles)

The last leg of your Route 66 adventure passes the Mojave National

Take a detour along a 14 mile stretch of Route 66 in the south east

Preserve to reach the bright lights of Los Angeles. Explore the sights at

corner of Kansas where there are many original Route 66 signs.

your leisure, including Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica.

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RANCH

DISCOVER THE JAGGED PEAKS AND WIDE OPEN SPACES OF AMERICA’S CATTLE COUNTRY THE WAY THEY WERE MADE TO BE EXPERIENCED – ASTRIDE A STEED WORTHY OF A STARRING ROLE IN A WILD WESTERN. WATCH AN EXHILARATING RODEO OR TRY ROPING ON A WORKING RANCH. WHETHER YOU STAY AT A RUSTIC FAMILY-OWNED FARM OR A LUXURY SPA RESORT, WE’VE GOT THE GREAT OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE FOR YOU.

RANCH HOLIDAYS Explore the vast landscapes of the Wild West the traditional way. Our ranch holidays let you experience the rugged charms of western life. The more adventurous will want to saddle up a horse and ride the wind. Whatever you want from your ranch holiday, we can hook you up with the perfect escape.

WRANGLERS, COWBOYS & BLAZING SADDLES Many people choose a ranch holiday for the thrill of riding a horse through the vast open plains. There’s no better place to ride than with people who are passionate about the wrangling way of life. It’s a great place to learn to ride too. And even if you’ve no intention of saddling up, there’s plenty of action in the shape of hayrides, guided hikes or rodeos.

WHITE-WATER RAFT THROUGH THE

The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch, Wyoming

GRAND CANYON Discover the Great West with adrenaline pumping in your veins. No visit to the West would be right without seeing the Grand Canyon. And one of the best ways to see it is on the river, in a raft, plummeting down the rapids. We can combine your ranch holiday with an action-packed white-water rafting adventure in Utah and Oregon as well as on the Colorado River. Camp out near the glittering streams and witness the majesty of nature.

POST RANCH ADVENTURES We’re great fans of combining fly-drive holidays with ranches so you can experience America on horseback as well as on the roads. Take the chance to enjoy a city break in Las Vegas or a luxurious resort stay in Scottsdale.

Snake River Rafting with Western River Expeditions

Then explore the American landscape by travelling to the Rocky Mountain National Park, Yellowstone National Park and many authentic western towns.

Archery at Goosewing Ranch, Wyoming

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USA RANCH HOLIDAYS

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Montana

WHAT TYPE OF COWBOY DO YOU WANT TO BE? WORKING RANCHES

America’s great plains while hiking trails lead

PLAN AHEAD

Cowboy living doesn’t get any more authentic

you through the landscape under your own

Once you’ve carefully selected the type of

than on a working ranch. Do away with plush

steam. Off-road biking routes crisscross the

ranch, knowing the right time of year to visit is

hotels and polished doorknobs and get down

mountains and rafts are at the ready for a

key to creating the perfect cowboy experience.

to the bare bones of real life in the Wild

voyage downstream.

West. These ranches are still functioning farms,

The best times to visit the ranches in Arizona

owned by people who still make their living by

RESORT RANCHES

and Texas are between January and April, or

wrangling, driving cattle and roping.

There’s no need to compromise on luxury at a

October through to December. Though open

resort ranch. Get as involved as much or as

year-round, the horses don’t work all day in

Muck in and saddle up with the professional

little you like; here you can enjoy a snapshot

the peak of summer and with temperatures

wranglers for the full cowboy experience.

of life as a cowboy, without committing to a

reaching up to 40 degrees – you won’t want

Groom your trusty steed before a hearty

fully immersive Old West experience.

to either.

cattle between grazing lands and check the

Dip your toe into life on a ranch, joining an

Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Montana

boundary fences before tucking up in cosy

afternoon ride across the vast expanse of

and Wyoming are more temperate states, so

accommodation. Though some ranches are

unspoiled landscape, safe in the knowledge

plan your ranch holiday between May and

happy to train novices, these are ideally suited

that a spa retreat, steaming pool and

September to catch the great American summer.

to proficient riders.

gastronomic cuisine await upon your return.

Season dates for these ranches can vary.

GUEST RANCHES

Novice riders are heartily welcomed; what

For a ranch experience with a unique twist,

Our guest ranches are smaller, family-owned

better way to learn horse riding than in the

a few plucky establishments are opening

and cosy. A genuine western experience

middle of the Wild West, wearing a Stetson?

their saloon doors during the winter months,

awaits, but so do an intimate atmosphere

Fill the rest of your time with activities ranging

featuring a winter programme that includes

and a host of other activities that don’t require

from archery to mountain biking, try fly-fishing

skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking and snow

you to spend each full day in the saddle. Full

or hike through the landscapes spilling out

tubing.

or half-day rides peacefully introduce you to

around the ranch.

breakfast, ready for a day herding the

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ICONIC CITIES

THESE CITY HEAVY WEIGHTS ARE RECOGNISED AROUND THE WORLD. VISIT THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE GUARDING THE MOUTH OF SAN FRANCISCO BAY. CRAM WASHINGTON’S LANDMARKS INTO A SINGLE DAY

BY WALKING THE NATIONAL MALL VIA THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL AND THE WHITE HOUSE. MARVEL AT THE SKYSCRAPER-DOMINATED SKYLINE OF NEW YORK AND DISCOVER THE ROOTS OF THE BLUES IN CHICAGO.

NEW YORK We’re spreading the news – New York has it all.

Once you’ve tasted the Big Apple, you’ll be hooked on the city’s wild bustle. Visit the world-famous landmarks, see why there’s no business like showbusiness at Broadway and walk among the weird and wonderful at Times Square.

Once you’ve explored the familiar, head deep into different boroughs for a slice of the New Yorker lifestyle and pizza.

MAKE YOUR CITY BREAK W&ONDERFUL When you visit New York, it can be tricky to fit in every single famous sight. We can arrange tickets to places such as the Empire State Building and Ellis Island.

We always recommend seeing New York from its most famous building, the Empire State Building. Make sure you pick a clear day before heading up the 102 storeys, or head up during the night to see the glittering skyline.

You can see the city from a different angle from Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Centre.

Grab some culture with visits to the American Museum of Natural History, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Guggenheim Museum and The MoMA (The Museum of Modern Art). And don’t forget to hop on a boat tour around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

DON’T MISS OUT ON BROADWAY It’s madness to have a holiday in New York without seeing a show. Family favourites please every time from the inspiring story of Matilda, to the witches of Wicked and magic carpet of Aladdin. Meanwhile adults can be dazzled by the glitz of Chicago, Abba songs of Mamma Mia and a performance to remember at The Phantom of The Opera. But don’t limit yourself to Broadway as there are many other theatres around the city.

LIVE IN LUXURY IN THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS There’s more to New York than you can experience in a lifetime, let alone a couple of days or a week. Our hand-picked hotels take you as close to the action as you can be. And you might as well enjoy a few creature comforts while you’re here.

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NEW YORK – HOTELS

GANSEVOORT PARK AVENUE Sitting on the corner of Park Avenue and 29th, just moments away from the Empire State Building, the Gansevoort Park Avenue couldn’t be better situated for exploring one of the USA’s top cities.

This hip hotel seems to be a real winner with the younger crowd. Summer Sundays are filled with cool rooftop pool parties and breezy evenings are dedicated to socialising with a sundowner in hand.

The 249 luxury rooms and suites have high ceilings, Juliet balconies and fine bathrooms. The trendy rooftop pool area is perfect for sunbathing. Guests can also enjoy a luxury spa, yoga classes and a fully equipped fitness centre.

THE LONDON NYC Located in the heart of Manhattan, less than 10 blocks away from Times Square, this all-suite hotel is ideally positioned for those wanting to stay just a short walk from some of New York’s finest attractions.

Its ethos is to create a home-away-from-home with roomy suites all designed by renowned designer David Collins.

Expect large living spaces with wide windows offering views out across the city or Central Park.

Guests at The London can expect all the conveniences of a modern hotel such as spacious suites, a 24-hour concierge service, a fully equipped gym, fine dining and a casual bar to enjoy a drink or two in.

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NEW YORK – HOTELS

THE MARCEL AT GRAMERCY Spend your days wandering through some of the upmarket neighbourhoods of Chelsea, East Village and SoHo to get a real feel of New York.

The Marcel Gramercy sits idyllically far enough from the hustle of Midtown but close enough to taxi in when the highlife is sought. Its quiet residential location is perfect for long lazy days exploring quaint boutique stores or visiting the famous Flat Iron building.

Boasting just 136 rooms, and decorated with retro accents and gallery-inspired interiors the hotel owns a chic contemporary vibe complete with a rooftop terrace and complimentary wine tasting. Gramercy Park is only a short walk away and all else in Manhattan is a short cab ride.

TRUMP SOHO A truly iconic hotel in New York, the Trump SoHo represents old school glamour with a chic contemporary edge.

Soaring into the sky from a central SoHo location, Trump SoHo offers guests an ideal base from which to explore the city. Whether you are looking for a jaunt around the city’s attractions, or a shopping spree on Fifth, everything is only a short stroll or taxi ride away.

The rooms are large offering extensive views across Manhattan. Each comes with a spacious bathroom and hi-tech amenities. The seasonal outdoor pool and luxury spa plus the trendy Japanese restaurant are only a few of the facilities on offer here.

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NEW YORK – HOTELS

W TIMES SQUARE Located within the bright lights of Times Square, this trendy hotel is perfect for those looking for an all-singing and dancing trip to the Big Apple.

W Hotels is famed world over for its fun, sexy vibe and this hotel certainly doesn’t disappoint. Its chic and contemporary décor wows from the minute you step through the doors. Expect hi-tech hospitality where fashion and design collide.

Cool lighting, pumping sound systems and luxury bath products fill the large rooms. Around the hotel look out for the fun dining options and uber cool bars to enjoy a drink or two in.

LE PARKER MERIDIEN This French-inspired chic hotel enjoys a central Manhattan address with rooms offering inspiring views across Central Park or the New York skyline.

Decorated in neutral hues and boasting large panorama windows, this hotel is the idyllic base to explore the city that never sleeps. Don’t miss the ‘best breakfast in town’ at the hotel’s restaurant Norma’s or even head to the Burger Joint for excellent and succulent beef patties – supersized.

Around the hotel, guests will be spoilt for choice on ways to relax, from pampering spa treatments to working up a sweat in the gym before cooling off in the rooftop pool.

Choose Le Parker Meridien for a distinguished stay with unrivalled views.

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ICONIC CITIES CHICAGO

WASHINGTON

SAN FRANCISCO

Echoing New York, but on a much smaller

Iconic landmarks and instantly recognisable

All you need are two words and a split-second

scale and accompanied by an irresistibly

buildings steeped in the country’s history are

to conjure up images of red-painted bridges,

laid-back charm, spectacular glass fronted

found around every corner in the USA’s capital.

near-vertical streets and prison-topped islands;

skyscrapers reach for the heavens and tower

Walk the same streets as diplomats and

San Francisco. Occupying the tip of the San

over the streets, parks and marina below. Take

visionaries, from a succession of presidents to

Francisco Peninsula on California’s golden

a trip up the Willis Tower to find the Western

Martin Luther King Jr.

coast, San Fran is adored by visitors and locals

Hemisphere’s tallest observatory, Skydeck

alike for perfectly housing the collision between

Chicago, for 360 degree vistas that stretch

Washington D.C. is home to North America’s

over the town and coast. Brave souls can step

best museums, including the Smithsonian

out onto ‘The Ledge’, a box extending out of

Institution – the world’s largest research and

Tech start-ups, quirky speak-easy bars and

the building made entirely of glass – including

museum complex. Search for the Hope

artisan restaurants line the hilly city and views

the floor beneath your feet.

Diamond in the National Museum of Natural

across crooked Victorian roofs and innovative

History and Dorothy’s ruby red slippers in the

modern architecture are ready to reward you

You won’t need much persuading to take on

American History Museum. Check out all things

after a slog up the tall streets. Though the city’s

Chicago’s bursting culinary scene; home of the

airborne in the National Air and Space Museum

famous cable cars are happy to take care of

all-American deep dish pizza and restaurant

– including the Wright brothers’ Spirit of St Louis

the legwork for you, of course.

tables that groan under the weight of huge racks

and the Apollo 11 command module.

EXPLORE THE BAY

of mouth-watering local BBQ ribs, you’ll need to SEE THE CAPITAL’S MONUMENTS

Though views of San Francisco Bay never

Many of the grand monuments can be covered

fail to be spectacular, it would be criminal

CATCH A GAME

in a day; simply take a stroll along the National

not to view it from the greatest architectural

The city lives and breathes sport, so no true

Mall, following Constitution Avenue from the

masterpiece to grace the city. Take to the

experience of Chicago is complete without

Lincoln Memorial to US Capitol Building. Pause

Golden Gate Bridge by bike, on foot or in

attending a game. Head to the bleachers in

to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial,

a cab and clamber around the landscaped

Wrigley Field to watch a baseball game or

hop in the elevator and hitch a ride to the

gardens at Golden Gate Park. Head to ‘The

prepare for an onslaught of blue and orange

observation deck at the top of the Washington

Rock’ to step back in time and explore the

body paint amongst the supporters in the stands

Monument and peek through the railings at the

ominous, derelict corridors of the notorious

of a Chicago Bears football match.

most iconic of them all, the White House.

prison island that guards the mouth of the bay.

loosen the belt for a visit to the Windy City.

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the great outdoors and America’s creative minds.

ICONIC CITIES – CHICAGO HOTELS

THE LANGHAM CHICAGO Boasting sweeping views of Lake Michigan and set in the prestigious skyscraper designed by renowned architect Mies van der Rohe, The Langham Chicago is truly luxurious.

The riverfront location in downtown Chicago means the hotel is idyllically situated to explore some of the city’s attractions; the Loop, Grant Park and Navy Pier are only minutes away.

The décor of the hotel is understated elegance fusing warm neutral tones with rich plush textiles and dark woods. Each room offers stunning cityscape or lake views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Around the hotel expect an indoor lap pool plus a luxurious spa and fully equipped fitness centre.

THE PENINSULA CHICAGO Beautifully fusing Far Eastern graciousness with Midwestern hospitality, The Peninsula Chicago has become a firm favourite for those wanting a luxurious city hotel.

Located on the Magnificent Mile, famed for its excellent shopping, this hotel offers a fine base in which to explore the windy city. The décor is Asian-inspired with whitewashed walls accented with golds, browns and beiges.

Guests are treated to excellent amenities including the famed resident chocolate bar and afternoon tea – both irresistible. Elsewhere around the hotel, guests will relax in the swimming pool and luxury spa before changing for dinner to enjoy a decadent dining scene bursting with flavours from Asia and Europe.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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ICONIC CITIES – WASHINGTON HOTELS

CAPELLA WASHINGTON Located in the vibrant area of Georgetown, Capella Washington offers guests first class accommodation in an idyllic setting perfect for exploring the sights of the city.

This boutique residence offering just 49 guest rooms and 12 suites boasts a plush European décor. Its tranquil feel is complemented further with its riverside location. The sights and sounds of Washington including the ballet and Farmers Market are only a short ride away.

Around the hotel guests can indulge in the Capella Living Room, or simply enjoy first rate service. The rooftop and indoor/outdoor infinity pool offer incredible cityscapes and have become quite the popular spot in Washington.

DONOVAN HOTEL A KIMPTON HOTEL Located in the heart of Downtown Washington, close to some of the city’s top attractions including the White House, choose this hotel for an ideal base to explore the city.

Donovan Hotel boasts clean white rooms complete with a range of mod cons. Each room owns a Kyotofeel, with hi tech gadgets and an ultra sleek design. In warmer weather the rooftop pool and bar is perfect for a dip as the sun goes down and the restaurants serve a range of fine cuisines.

The spa and fitness rooms feature top-of-the-range equipment plus the added bonus of a yoga basket to take and work out to in the privacy of your own room.

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ICONIC CITIES – SAN FRANCISCO HOTELS

FAIRMONT SAN FRANCISCO Located in the famous Nob Hill region of San Francisco, this hotel is an iconic fixture combining the rich luxurious reputation of the Fairmont brand with a truly decadent stay in a beautiful and contemporary city.

The hotel boasts 592 luxurious guestrooms each offering stunning panorama views out across the city or the bay.

The legendary location of this hotel is the only meeting place of all cable cars meaning navigating around the city is made easy.

Around the hotel, guests can choose from a range of fine eateries from exotic Asian inspired food to fine dine San Francisco favourites from the sea. The Hurricane Bar has become a bit of an institution in the city and many enjoy a drink after work here.

HOTEL ZETTA SAN FRANCISCO This boutique hotel expertly blends sophistication with a fun and young edge. Sitting moments away from Union Square not only does it boast a prime location but a luxury base to retreat back to following a day of sightseeing.

The 116 rooms of the hotel are fashionable and cosy, each featuring one-of-a-kind tapestries plus antique Oriental rugs.

The hotel features a modern and fully equipped gym and offers in-room spa services such as wraps, scrubs and massages. The dining scene forces social eating with an upscale British brasserie and 3 bars to choose from. In fact this hotel has become one of the most popular spots for a night out in the SoMa district of San Francisco.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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WESTERN STATES GRAB THE WHEEL AND NAVIGATE THROUGH YOSEMITE TO THE GOLDEN COAST. STAR-SPOT WHILE YOU SHOP, TRADE THE BRIGHT LIGHTS OF HOLLYWOOD AND UNSTOPPABLE ENERGY OF LAS VEGAS FOR THE OUTSTANDING CANYON LANDS OR JOURNEY TO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST FOR DINNER IN SEATTLE’S FUTURISTIC SPACE NEEDLE.

CALIFORNIA Whether it’s the glitter in Hollywood or the golden sands of the beaches, you’re bound to hit gold when you visit California, the Golden State. Even if you are a regular visitor to the state, we’ll help you find something special in the state of sun, sea, surf and wine.

FULL OF FAMOUS SIGHTS & FAMOUS PEOPLE Everything seems to want to reach for the sky in California, from the US Bank Tower in LA to the epic Sequoia trees in Yosemite. Snap the sights at Hollywood’s Walk of Fame and San Francisco’s striking Golden Gate Bridge. Maybe take a trip to Beverly Hills, where shows of wealth range from movie mogul mansions to party palaces.

Away from the cities, there are National Parks alive with unspoilt natural wonders, stunning vistas and unforgettable experiences.

THE AMERICAN BEACH HOLIDAY California is a beach destination with a difference.

Where else mixes peaceful sandy strands with beaches that jostle with life? See the beautiful beach bods of Santa Monica’s Muscle Beach strutting their stuff along the sidewalk, or retreat to Santa Barbara where you can soak up the sun as you taste Californian wine. You’ll be humming along to the Beach Boys in no time.

EXPERIENCE MORE OF THE USA WITH A CALIFORNIAN ROAD TRIP Nothing is more pleasing than heading out on the open road and making your own Californian experience. Cruise down the Big Sur taking in the spectacular Pacific Ocean coastal scenery, or explore the state’s breathtaking National Parks at your own pace.

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San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge

CALIFORNIA SAN FRANCISCO

LOS ANGELES

Start or end your Californian holiday in the

From the moment you land at LAX, you’re in the

bay city of San Francisco. This city has its

midst of California’s glitz and glamour. If you’re

fair share of famous attractions including

looking for famous sights, then LA is a must.

Alcatraz, Lombard Street and the iconic

Tour the star-studded streets of Hollywood, grab

Golden Gate Bridge.

a pass to Universal Studios Hollywood and experience the heart of the silver screen. Take

NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

a scenic stroll down 90210, also known as

Love wine? Then you’ll love the Napa Valley

Beverly Hills.

and Sonoma wineries. Napa Valley has been attracting wine lovers since the Gold

Spot celebrities amidst the hustle and bustle

Rush. Tour the wineries of both Napa and

of the city of angels and head to the coast for

Sonoma and taste the landscape in each

beach-front hotels boasting spectacular vistas.

and every glass, or stop off for some R&R at a spa in the hills.

Ride a tram through the streets of San Francisco

SAN DIEGO Touch down in southern California for a vibrant blend of American and Mexican culture.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

This sun-soaked city has the best climate and

Spectacular mountain peaks and waterfalls

stunning beaches along its coastline, including

take over the landscape at Yosemite. Giant

our favourite, Coronado. Be sure to visit

Sequoia trees can be found in Yosemite, they

Mission Valley & Old Town and the heart of

are the largest living trees on the planet. Spend

San Diego’s nightlife in Gaslamp Quarter.

a few nights in the heart of the park at a lodge and enjoy the UNESCO worthy heritage site.

GREATER PALM SPRINGS Sunshine reigns over the nine cities that form

CARMEL & MONTEREY

Greater Palm Springs. Luxurious resorts, golf

Carmel’s upmarket, stylish streets are lined with

courses and relaxing spas can all be found

restaurants and art galleries while Monterey’s

among the palm fringed streets, while stunning

bustling centre has a fun, jazzy atmosphere.

desert landscapes can must be seen to be

Golfers can enjoy the excellent Pebble Beach

believed in Joshua Tree National Park.

course and, further down the coast, romantics NORTH COAST

DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

can lap up the luxury at the Post Ranch Inn.

As you move further north in California, the

Brush aside its bleak name. Death Valley’s

scenery changes, with crashing waves and

SANTA BARBARA

spectacular scenery is home to the lowest point

majestic forests and mountains. Northern

Find the Mediterranean on the Pacific coast in

in the lower 48 states and at night, the sky

California swaps glitz and glamour for fertile

Santa Barbara. The cobblestone streets and

comes to life with more stars than you’ve ever

earth and rugged coastline. Walk around the

pretty beaches have all the quaintness of the

seen. Stop off when visiting Las Vegas and

Humboldt Redwood State Park and stand in

Riviera, but with a beachy bohomian spirit of

admire the stunning wildflowers in spring.

the shadow of Redwood trees standing nearly

trendy Cali.

370 feet tall.

SANTA MONICA LAKE TAHOE

With plenty of beachfront hotels, Santa Monica

California meets Nevada at the USA’s largest

has all you need for a beach holiday. Shop

alpine lake – the perfect stop on a western

and dine to your heart’s content along the

fly-drive holiday. Try outdoor activities like

pedestrian-only promenade on 3rd Street. Stroll

boating, biking and hiking, head for the

along Ocean Avenue and down to the Santa

evening bars and clubs and enjoy winter at 8

Monica Pier for an ice cream.

world-class ski resorts.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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CALIFORNIA

COASTAL CALIFORNIA FLY-DRIVE Journey down the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles, while stopping off at Monterey, Carmel and Santa Barbara on the way. Typically taking 11 days, this fly-drive holiday can be extended to include a few days in San Diego to take on the world-class surf at Pacific Beach and sample the best Mexican food outside of Mexico.

SAN FRANCISCO San Francisco is a city of icons. Ride the red cable cars up the notorious hilly streets and trade your four wheels for two to explore the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge by bike and cycle across the bay. Step inside the infamous prison on Alcatraz Island and once you’ve dared to climb Lombard Street (perilously near-vertical), join the hustle and bustle for an evening in Union Square.

SAN FRANCISCO – MONTEREY & CARMEL (125 miles)

SANTA BARBARA – LOS ANGELES (110 miles)

Monterey is the capital of California’s abundant marine life – from

Visit the coastal heavyweights – Venice Beach, Malibu and the

Humpback whales and dolphin pods feeding in Monterey Bay to the

iconic Pier in Santa Monica.

town’s fantastic Aquarium. Carmel offers a quieter beach-side retreat, with quaint cobbled streets lined with friendly restaurants.

With L.A. perched on the coast, make the most of the stunning golden sands before taking a peek into the town’s legendary film

MONTEREY & CARMEL – SANTA BARBARA (250 miles)

industry at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Stop off en-route to Santa Barbara to explore the inspiration for Citizen

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Kane at Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Discover the history and culture

Walk or tour around the Hollywood Hills to spot celebs and enjoy

of Santa Barbara at the Old Mission and sample the wines of the

sweeping views of the white letters that overlook L.A. from the

downtown vineyards.

Griffith Observatory.

CALIFORNIA

BEST OF THE WEST FLY-DRIVE

GRAND CANYON – LAS VEGAS (270 miles) On your way to the city of sin, stop at the Hoover Dam – an impressive, man-made concrete spectacle guaranteed to make you feel petite. Then follow the bright lights and prepare for the glitzy assault on the senses that is Las Vegas. Catch a show, watch the illuminated Bellagio Fountain display or risk it all on red in a casino.

Don’t just limit your holiday to one state. Our Best of the West fly-drive combines the classic sights and sounds of California, Arizona and

LAS VEGAS – DEATH VALLEY (125 miles)

Nevada. If you’re up for a little bit of adventure as you explore the

Journey back to California through Death Valley National Park. Stopping

west, this flexible route is perfect – whoosh through the panoramas

to watch the sunset over the rugged landscape at Zabriskie Point.

of the Grand Canyon in a private helicopter, hike through Yosemite National Park in search of waterfalls and star gaze in Death Valley.

DEATH VALLEY – YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK (415 miles) Hike through one of America’s most loved National Parks, searching out

LOS ANGELES

natural waterfalls and moving through the shadows of vast Sequoia trees.

Once you’ve shopped ‘til you’ve dropped along Rodeo Drive and spotted the stars of Hollywood and Beverly Hills, head to Santa Monica

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK – SAN FRANCISCO (190 miles)

to soak up the sun on one of California’s most famous beaches.

Sample the award-winning Californian wines as you travel through Napa Valley. When you reach San Francisco, walking the Golden Gate Bridge

LOS ANGELES – PALM SPRINGS (115 miles)

and a tour of Alcatraz Prison Island should be at the top of your to-do list.

Treat yourself to a life of Californian luxury at the spas, high-end shopping and world class golf at Palm Springs, before exploring the

SAN FRANCISCO – MONTEREY (120 miles)

spiky tree-spotted desert of the Joshua Tree National Park.

Enjoy a round of golf at the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Course and take to the water of Monterey Bay to spot migrating Humpback

PALM SPRINGS – SCOTTSDALE (280 miles)

whales, orcas and seals.

Explore the art galleries, restaurants and bars of lively downtown Scottsdale before you hop into the saddle for a snapshot of life as

MONTEREY – SANTA BARBARA (235 miles)

a Wild West cowboy at White Stallion Ranch in nearby Tucson.

After racking up all that mileage, it’s time for some well-deserved retail therapy in the trendy streets of Santa Barbara, before hitting the beach.

SCOTTSDALE – GRAND CANYON (235 miles) Drive around the south rim for your first view of the gaping Grand

SANTA BARBARA – LOS ANGELES (100 miles)

Canyon, and then soar above the USA’s most iconic landscape in a

Go full-circle to finish the holiday where it began and relax on one of

private helicopter for an unforgettable perspective.

LA’s gorgeous beaches for your last few days.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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CALIFORNIA – HOTELS

HOTEL DEL CORONADO SAN DIEGO

NEWPORT

Situated on the beautiful island of Coronado, this luxurious hotel boasts

This highly-acclaimed Italian-style resort is a haven for families offering

100 years of heritage. Easily recognisable due to its towering red

guest rooms and villas as well as a truly impressive array of facilities.

turrets, guests can choose from a selection of rooms and suites. Aside

From pristine golf courses to dining and swimming pools, there’s always

from the nearby golf course, there’s also paddle-boarding, surfing, family

something to do. Camp Pelican for ages 4-12 has an impressive

evenings by the campfire and fantastic dining to be enjoyed. This hotel

playground to keep the kids entertained whilst adults relax in the spa or

epitomises the grandeur from the good old days, when family fun was at

enjoy a complimentary wellness class. Experience Newport as it was

the forefront of a holiday.

intended, elegant, chic and charming.

LOEWS HOLLYWOOD LOS ANGELES

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THE RESORT AT PELICAN HILL

SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH SANTA MONICA

Set right in the heart of the action beside the Hollywood Stars and the

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World group, this property

Hollywood Highland Center, and offering views of the Hollywood

boasts an enviable beachside location in Santa Monica. Offering a

sign, this hotel is a modern, contemporary choice in the city. Many of

picture-perfect exterior and a stylish interior with incredible vistas from the

the rooms offer panoramic views of Los Angeles and when the sun is

swimming pool and terrace which overlook the azure waters, this resort

shining, take a dip in the rooftop pool to truly appreciate its location.

embodies a warm and friendly atmosphere complete with delightful and

The hotel is ideally placed a minute’s walk from the metro station.

casual dining establishments as well as a blissful spa.

CALIFORNIA – HOTELS

AHWAHNEE YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

ARGONAUT A KIMPTON HOTEL SAN FRANCISCO

The jewel in the crown of Yosemite National Park, deep in the heart

Situated on the edge of Fisherman’s Wharf, the bustling pier area

of the valley, the beautiful lodge of Ahwahnee is designed to highlight

of the city, this hotel’s aura is fun with a nautical edge. Set in an old

its natural surroundings which include Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and

warehouse, the hotel has many charming features such as wooden

Glacier Point. This resort attracts a high profile clientele including

beams and exposed brick walls. Dine at The Blue Mermaid Chowder

Royalty and Presidents. The entire resort is steeped in history offering

House to enjoy traditional San Francisco fare, it has become known

quirky design elements, open fires and spectacular views. It boasts

as quite the hotspot in the region. Enjoy picture perfect views, stunning

123 rooms with a grand dining room.

décor and a real homely feel.

FAIRMONT SONOMA MISSION INN & SPA SONOMA

LA QUINTA RESORT & CLUB A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT GREATER PALM SPRINGS

A luxurious address for a stay near to vibrant Sonoma Town and within

Situated in the La Quinta area of Greater Palm Springs, this beloved

easy driving distance of the region’s fantastic wine country spots, The

resort, a favourite among couples and families alike, oozes Hollywood

Fairmont offers a well-rounded stay. From the 18-hole golf course to the

glamour. La Quinta is a haven for those who appreciate the finer things

Michelin Star restaurant and not forgetting the unique Spa where natural

in life, as well as golf enthusiasts and spa lovers. Rooms are named

hot springs from the Sonoma Valley are used, coupled with expert

Casitas and offer a quaint Spanish style; the La Quinta Resort is truly

therapists and a vast treatment menu make a truly memorable stay.

Greater Palm Spring’s luxury desert hideaway.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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PACIFIC NORTHWEST Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, rugged deserts, cosmopolitan cities, craters, glittering lakes and wineries – the Pacific Northwest corner of the US has it all.

If you ever doubted the US’s natural splendour, then the breathtaking beauty of Washington and Oregon will win you over. And if you want to add a slice of summer to your trip, we can take you down state to California.

FIND WATER & FIRE IN WASHINGTON – NOT D.C. Named after the country’s favourite son, Washington has much to be proud of. Take off from the heart of Seattle to the towering mountains of the Washington Cascades. The misty mountains may look peaceful on the outside, but these volcanos are part of the infamous Ring of Fire, including explosive Mt St Helens.

National Parks cover the verdant landscape. The stunning Olympic National Park shimmers with every hue of green thanks to fertile earth and constant watering from record levels of rainfall. Off the coast, you can take a seaplane to the San Juan Islands for a chance to spot orca pods cruising through the waves.

FIND A DIFFERENT SIDE TO THE PACIFIC IN OREGON If you enjoy water sports, skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, and exploring untouched vistas, then Oregon is for you. Nature has scored the landscape with deep gorges, even deeper canyons and craters filled with pristine water. Head further east and the plush forests fade into scrubby deserts with red rock bulges and cacti.

But not all of Oregon has been left to the wilderness.

Downtown Portland is as vibrant in the day as it is at night. Budweiser takes a back seat as microbreweries flood the bars with real beer.

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PACIFIC NORTHWEST

ORIGINAL OREGON Rugged Oregon has plenty to offer the discerning traveller from trendy Portland to the wine country, stunning coastline to beautiful outdoor spaces.

Travelling inland you can try some new activities including white-water rafting and riding. The Long Hollow Ranch near Bend offers three and six night stays, perfect for a spot of riding when you want a break from driving.

HIGHLIGHTS ■

See the views of Crater Lake National Park

■

Travel down the coast of Oregon

■

Explore the wineries of Willamette Valley

WASHINGTON WONDERS Spend a couple of nights in Seattle shopping, dining and sightseeing, before the driving to Port Angeles and Hurricane Ridge Viewpoint. Stay in a forest paradise at the Lake Crescent Lodge before travelling on to the scenic driftwood beaches of the coast.

See the scenery of the Twilight movies in Forks and spend the night at the Kalaloch Lodge. Travel into the Olympic National Park for fantastic views and spend the night at the comfortable Lake Quinault Lodge before journeying back to Seattle.

HIGHLIGHTS ■

Spend time in Seattle and even climb the

■

Enjoy the lodge life at Lake Crescent

■

Hike through Olympic National Park

iconic Space Needle

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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LAS VEGAS The entertainment and gaming capital of the world – where nights last longer, lights shine brighter and everything feels larger than life.

Yet there is so much more to Vegas than casinos; everything is a spectacle, even the hotels themselves are attractions. From high-end shopping to outlet malls and luxurious spas to pristine golf courses and of course the nearby desert to explore, indulge in the endless opulence and activities here. As the evening draws in, the choices are endless, with the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry taking up residency in this dazzling city from Cirque du Soleil performances to famous individuals.

PERFECT COMBINATIONS Mix the city lights and late nights of Vegas with a fly-drive holiday around Utah visiting the national parks, or travel to California for the beautiful beaches.

Alternatively, twin a city break with a ranch holiday in Arizona for the best of city life and adventure.

EXCURSIONS HELICOPTERS A helicopter tour over the bright lights of Vegas or the Grand Canyon is an experience like no other. Take to the skies for the opportunity to marvel at the vastness of the canyon on this breathtaking experience. Our top picks for helicopter journeys are Wind Dancer, flying over the iconic Hoover Dam and landing in the canyon for champagne and snacks, and the Helicopter & Rafting Tour for the opportunity to go on an adventure on the Colorado River; both with Maverick Helicopters.

SHOWS It’s often been said that no trip to Las Vegas is complete without experiencing the glitz and glam of a show. Le Rêve (The Dream) at Wynn Las Vegas is a magical performance, taking place in Vegas’ only theatre in-the-round and partially on water. Cirque du Soleil consistently has a number of shows in Vegas’ major hotels with amazing acrobatics and creativity.

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LAS VEGAS – HOTELS

WYNN LAS VEGAS & ENCORE Chic and contemporary, the Wynn & Encore own two of the hippest and most luxurious addresses on the strip.

Known for a cool vibe and attracting a chic crowd, this is the place to be of an evening.

Offering almost 5,000 rooms between these two hotels, Wynn & Encore really do win the award for one of the hottest spots in town. Expect lively pool parties at the beach club during the summer months.

Plus check out The Dream Show, for some live entertainment. This is Vegas though and the Casino is the real draw, relish the atmosphere of the resident casino before retiring to bed. Wake up refreshed, then try one of the most delicious brunches in town before escaping out on the golf course to perfect your swing.

THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS Hip and trendy, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas hosts fantastic pool parties and chic nightlife all in an elegant and upmarket setting. This hotel is the ideal choice for a fun and unashamedly cool holiday with friends and family.

Located right in the middle of the famous Las Vegas Strip, this hotel really is right in the thick of the action.

The rooms are spacious with some offering views of the Fountains of Bellagio via large balconies.

The Marquee Day Club Pool for adults boasts a beach club feel during the day before resuming its post as a top nightspot when the lights go down. Guests love the Chandelier Bar for a nightcap or visiting in between the casinos and exciting shows of Vegas.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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LAS VEGAS – HOTELS

THE VENETIAN Opulent and decadent, picture yourself in St Mark’s Square, Venice, Las

This is the sister property to the neighbouring Venetian Hotel, Las Vegas

Vegas style, and stay in extremely spacious all-suite accommodations.

where all of the fantastic facilities are shared. Guests here can upgrade

This fun hotel offers gondola rides down the Grand Canal, an expansive

to the ‘Prestige at the Palazzo’ package to receive extra-special

casino, Tao Nightclub, a fantastic selection of luxury shops and even

treatment. The Palazzo Pool Deck offers the perfect setting to lounge and

its own Madame Tussauds, plus Celebrity Chef Restaurants and a fully

relax and during the spring and summer months, Tao Beach has weekly

equipped fitness centre and spa.

appearances from internationally acclaimed DJ’s.

MGM GRAND

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THE PALAZZO

CAESARS PALACE

A huge Strip hotel welcoming couples, families and friends, with a range

A spacious Roman themed hotel occupying a prime location on the

of dining options and attractions for all. The supersized casino is its real

Strip with a wide choice of rooms available. This iconic hotel often

draw. Plus it is home to two of the most famous shows, Ka by Cirque du

has Hollywood greats descending onto its stage, headliner acts often

Soleil and David Copperfield the Illusionist Show. For a bit of luxury opt

include Elton John, Celine Dion & Matt Goss. For a bit of ‘Me’ time

for the spectacular Skyline Terrace Suite with expansive outdoor luxury

head to glorious Garden of The Gods Pool Oasis and for decadent

terrace or perhaps one of the four bedroom villas.

dining this is the home of Nobu.

LAS VEGAS – HOTELS

THE BELLAGIO

VDARA

Positioned in an enviable location on the Strip, the Bellagio has

A modern all-suite non-gaming, non-smoking hotel with apartment style

fantastic facilities as well as contemporary accommodations. It is of

accommodations, the Vdara has an exclusive feel to it. This one-of-a-kind

course home to the famous fountains and sits right in the heart of Las

hotel in Vegas offers something to those who want to get away from the

Vegas’s famous strip. The fun ‘O’ Cirque du Soleil show is played here

dizzying heights of the city. It has a central location, great for admiring

plus the Conservatory and botantical gardens are perfect for a little

the other hotels and casinos, plus it offers a soothing ESPA spa. Try the

downtime. Be sure to check out the Fiori di Como glass sculpture.

Crystal facial!

LUXOR RESORT & CASINO

MANDARIN ORIENTAL

Strikingly designed in the shape of a pyramid, the Luxor boasts a large

Located right in the heart of the Strip within the buzz of Vegas, this

pool, buzzing casino and a selection of bars and restaurants. All the

peaceful and luxurious haven is a no-smoking, no-gambling hotel. Head

rooms are housed in both the Luxor Tower & Pyramid with spectacular

to the 23rd floor where you can enjoy afternoon tea and spectacular

views. The hotel is located at the southern end of the Strip and boasts

views and indulge at the luxurious spa which occupies two floors of

one of the largest pool decks in Vegas. It is also home to the famous

the hotel and has 17 treatment rooms in total. Twist restaurant by Perre

Blue Man Group show.

Gagnaire is also well worth trying.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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ARIZONA Live like a pioneer in Arizona, or a cowboy. With tumbleweed, towering cacti, and the rugged rocky landscape, you’ll half-expect Clint Eastwood to stride out from a saloon. Arizona isn’t just the wildest of the Old West; it’s home to the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon, with rapids and lakes deep in its basin.

ADVENTURES AROUND EVERY ROCKY PRECIPICE Home to the heavyweights of the canyon states, Cathedral Rock, Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon, Arizona swaps the din of traffic for the roar of rapids. If adrenaline is your drug of choice, there’s more than enough to get your heart pumping. Activities such as white-water rafting, mountain biking and horse riding are open for all to experience and authentic ranches open their doors for the opportunity to live life as a cowboy in the Wild West. Just remember to spend some time relaxing in between exploring.

DISCOVER EPIC VISTAS & UNFORGETTABLE SIGHTS Don’t miss one of Arizona’s most spectacular sights.

Gather around the campfire and gaze up at the clear star-filled sky – camps in wild Arizona are so far from light pollution that you’ll spot more stars than you’ve ever seen before.

Once the sun rises over the desert, take a helicopter ride over the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon. Witness the geographic majesty of a landscape formed as the result of billions of years’ worth of water erosion from an unparalleled perspective. Though Mother Nature has outdone herself with Arizona, she isn’t responsible for all of the state’s beauty. Hire a houseboat to drift lazily through the still waters of the manmade Lake Powell, soaking up the stunning scenery.

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ARIZONA POCKETS OF CIVILISATION IN THE CANYON COUNTY Not all of Arizona is wilderness. Though overshadowed by the grandeur of the natural landscape, the Grand Canyon State is also home to bustling metropolises and cosmopolitan cities, which deserve a visit in their own right.

TUCSON Occupying a flat valley overlooked by the craggy Santa Catalina Mountains, the town of Tucson balances its status as Arizona’s second largest city with a homely, small-time atmosphere. Colourful 19th century buildings illustrate the town’s vibrant history, blending Native American, Mexican and Spanish cultural roots. The giant cacti-covered Saguaro National Park and scrubby desert surrounding Tucson is filled with hiking opportunities and is also home to some of our authentic Western & Oriental guest ranches.

SCOTTSDALE The architecturally modern city of Scottsdale clings to its picturesque old town roots, with whitewashed churches and old ramshackle saloons lining the roads. Scottsdale is the perfect compromise if you want to dip your toes into the stark natural beauty of Arizona, without compromising on luxury. Here, you can find lavish resorts, lush green golf courses and extensive spas, but the towering rock formations that loom in the distance serve as a constant reminder that you’re never too far from desert blooms and wild cacti.

PHOENIX The capital of Arizona is also the most populous city in the Southwest and at first glance, a bewildering sight in the midst of desert landscape. Bizarre and out of place though it might seem, give this sprawling metropolis a chance and you’ll find golf courses and extensive shopping, fine museum opera houses and even desert botanical gardens to entertain. In the evening, the urban mass undergoes a complete transformation, illuminated by a golden sunset that stretches across the desert.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

41

ARIZONA – RANCHES

WHITE STALLION RANCH Experience life on a ranch at the charming White Stallion. Sitting upon 3,000 acres of wild plains at the foot of the rugged Tucson Mountains, enjoy daily rides varying from slow and scenic to brisk, fast cantering.

White Stallion’s friendly staff ensure you feel at ease with your specially selected horse; whether your first time or hundredth, a desert ride is always unforgettable. Trails pass through the surrounding countryside and mountains at a pace that suits you.

Back at the ranch a swimming pool awaits, as well as western style meals including evening barbecues. Regular ranch activities will leave you feeling like a real cowboy such as cattle penning, fun cook outs, hayrides, a weekly ranch rodeo and exciting moonlight bonfires with cowboy entertainment.

TOMBSTONE MONUMENT RANCH Tombstone’s only dude ranch lies 3 miles from the centre of town. Modelled on an Old West town, individually decorated guest rooms line the street.

Wake up in The Marshal’s Office, The Blacksmith’s, The Stagecoach, or even The Jail. Burst through the swing doors into the Trappmann Saloon and slide your drink along the bar while listening to live music or playing a friendly game of cards.

The ranch boasts spectacular scenery and fascinating history, the best way to experience both is in the saddle. Rides vary from scenic to fast, half days, all days, even ride to Tombstone just like the cowboys used to.

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ARIZONA – HOTELS

FIRESKY RESORT A KIMPTON HOTEL

THE BOULDERS

Awaken your senses with a stay at the FireSky Resort in Scottsdale.

Drawing inspiration from the Arizona Desert, enjoy a break in the

Dedicated to rejuvenation, this is the ideal spot for a relaxing break.

sprawling resort of The Boulders. Boasting a range of desert-themed

The resort’s ethos is a celebration of the elements through Earth, Wind,

suites, casitas and villas, it is the ideal family break. The fun Casitas are

Water and Fire. One day you can find yourself strolling through the

actually set within the Sonoran Desert terrain with the ancient boulder

tranquil lagoon, next relaxing poolside with a cocktail inhand as the

formations just outside your room. The suites and villas are spacious and

fiery sun sets, or reclining in the dedicated spa centre as the therapists

inviting, with some owning a private plunge pool. Around the resort,

ease away the stresses of everyday. The rooms are airy and spacious

guests can choose from relaxing poolside, perfecting their backhand

making for a relaxing base to retreat to.

with a game of tennis or heading out on the world class golf course.

THE PHOENICIAN

WESTIN KIERLAND RESORT

Located in Arizona, this sprawling complex has enough to keep

This sprawling resort is the ideal hideaway break embodying true

everyone entertained for a truly family-orientated break. With a plethora

Scottish traditions. The large resort offers a range of accommodation

of room choice fanging from Superior Rooms through to the Casita Two

types including standard rooms through to large Casita suites. Each

Bedroom Suite, there is something for everyone. The décor is sweet and

room, no matter the category boasts balconies or terraces with

simple allowing the rest of the resort to draw you in. For the family there

magnificent views out across the golf course and beyond to the

is the Splash Pad, a giant water playground for kids of all ages; for the

mountains. This desert resort has an excellent array of dining options all

little ones a dedicated kid’s club is on offer.

serving fresh ingredients and healthy recipes.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

43

UTAH Dust off your spurs and Stetson for an authentic western adventure in Utah. Drive through red sandstone crevasses and cliffs with the classic Wild West film backdrop behind you at Monument Valley.

We’ll help you find the best way to discover the heartland of the Old West. Explore a different canyon every day, with Zion Canyon and Bryce Canyon to name just two.

THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE BEAUTIFUL Walk through stunning gorges at The Narrows, hike along the sloping sides of Zion Canyon and witness the rich reds, oranges and gold hues of Bryce Canyon at sunset. While scenically famous for its part in portraying the gritty history of the West, Utah has made its mark as a state of jaw-dropping beauty. Over 65% of the state is public, so you can explore as many canyons and deserts as you wish.

EXPLORE THE ROCKY ROADS OF UTAH Hire a jeep and blitz along the dusty roads, but don’t get lost in the desert. We have many tours, flydrives and fun-packed activities to make the most of the Great West. From Moab, you can explore both Arches and Canyonlands for a taste of the outdoors, drive around the 18-mile loop and visit the Sky and Needles District.

TAKE A BREAK FROM THE WILDERNESS Utah has some great towns and cities to visit as well as natural wonders. Just at the gate of Zion National Park, Springdale offers a plethora of boutique galleries, stores and restaurants. If you want to fill your nights with more than sleeping, head to Salt Lake City or Park City for the vibrant nightlife.

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UTAH

CANYON ADVENTURE FLY-DRIVE

ZION NATIONAL PARK – BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK (85 miles) Head out at sunset for the most spectacular view of Bryce Canyon’s towering rock spires, illuminated in the evening light, and visit the Anasazi Indian Village.

With the canyons stretching across multiple states, you’ll want to travel

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK – ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

the West to search out the best of the desert red rock. With this fly-

(275 miles)

drive holiday you’ll explore Arizona, Colorado and Utah – living on

Try mountain biking or hike through 2,000 sandstone arches that make

the wild side in the neon mecca that is Las Vegas before pulling on

up Arches National Park.

the hiking boots to explore the iconic canyon lands.

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK – CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK LAS VEGAS

(26 miles)

Spend an evening cruising down the Strip and marvelling at the

Explore the canyons and winding Colorado and Green Rivers that

dazzling lights of Las Vegas, watch the fountains of the Bellagio

weave through Utah’s largest park.

and if you’re feeling lucky, risk a few dollars in the casinos.

CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK – MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK LAS VEGAS – ZION NATIONAL PARK (160 miles)

(115 miles)

Gaze at the incredible view from Kolob Canyon’s Viewpoint before

Journey to Colorado and search for one of the 600 cliff dwellings that

hiking through the park to discover waterfalls. Stay in the picture perfect

are carved into the canyon walls.

town of Springdale where a host of wonderful restaurants await.

MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK – NAVAJO TRIBAL PARK (130 miles) Drive through Monument Valley – the perfect backdrop of colossal rock outcrops worthy of your great canyon road trip. Head to the visitor’s centre at the Navajo Park for an authentic glimpse into Native American life.

NAVAJO TRIBAL PARK – GRAND CANYON (150 miles) Visit the Cameron Trading Post where Navajo and Hopi locals would traditionally trade their goods, before driving around the spectacular south rim of the iconic Grand Canyon.

GRAND CANYON – LAS VEGAS (270 miles) Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

45

MONTANA

Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek

MONTANA They call Montana, Big Sky country and it doesn’t

INTENSELY AMERICAN WITH A RICH HISTORY

take long to see why. Snow-capped mountains

Ride your trusty horse through wide-open spaces

create a jagged horizon that descends into forests

where bald eagles fly over the snow-capped

and wide-sweeping plains.

horizon. You’ll see why they call America the land of the free. It’s also home of the brave, as you’ll

Discover mirror perfect lakes and travel down the

find at Little Bighorn, the infamous site of Custer’s

Going-to-the-Sun road through America’s first National

defeat during the battle of Little Bighorn.

Park, Glacier. Or we can find you a ranch holiday so you can experience the pioneering spirit first hand.

WORK & PLAY IN THE COWBOY COUNTRY Saddle up for a holiday packed with riding,

NATIONAL PARK GALORE

fishing and more riding. You can immerse yourself

Every step into Montana takes you deeper into the

in authentic western life in Montana at a working

American wilderness. The unspoilt natural beauty

ranch. But you don’t have to work to experience

extends for miles, over the plains and far-away to the

the West. We have many different ways that you

mountainous horizon.

can enjoy the landscape, from riding, cycling and boating along the glassy lakes.

Montana’s backdrop has found its way into many iconic alpine scenes, from cowboy films to mega

COMBINE WITH OTHER STATES

blockbusters. But not all of Montana is peaceful. At

Our favourite combination mixes the wide plains

the famous Yellowstone National Park, the ground

of Montana with Wyoming, Idaho and South

literally explodes with life with geysers, sulphuric

Dakota.

lakes, and hot springs.

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MONTANA

Triple Creek Ranch

TRIPLE CREEK RANCH

Ranch at Rock Creek

ROCKING Z RANCH

THE RANCH AT ROCK CREEK

Described as one of the best-kept secrets in

Situated between Glacier and Yellowstone

Set on 10-square miles of rugged meadows

the Rocky Mountains, this luxurious Relais

National Park, this intimate setting run by a

and rolling foothills is the ultra-luxurious The

& Ch창teaux ranch sits at an altitude of

multi-generational family, offers both a guest

Ranch at Rock Creek. Here, indulge in scenic

4,600 feet amid four million acres of pristine

and working ranch experience. Open year

trail rides and a seemingly limitless option of

wilderness. An ideal intimate and romantic

round, there is an excellent riding programme

outdoor activities including fly-fishing, wildlife,

hideaway for an adult-only clientele.

for both novice and experienced riders.

horseback riding or mountain biking.

At this year-round, all-inclusive resort, guests

Guests can expect over six mountain ranges to

The resort caters for everyone so adults will

can experience breathtaking scenery, world

explore each with opportunities for long canters

relish some downtime in The Granite Spa for

class service, delectable cuisine and relax in

and runs. There are many other activities on

a spot of relaxation whereas families will get

fine log cabins with wood-burning fireplaces

offer here too so ensure you get the full ranch

creative as the little ones join in the fun at the

and hot tubs. Terrain and ride lengths for all

experience. Parelli Natural Horesmanship is

Little Grizzlies Kids Club. Gourmet meals are

levels of riders, team penning, cattle drives,

taught and other activities include cattle work

served in the Granite Lodge while evening

fly-fishing, nature safaris, sapphire panning

with team penning and roping. Aside from

entertainment includes bowling at the Silver

and more. In the winter, guests enjoy skiing,

riding, enjoy fishing, hiking and bird watching

Dollar Saloon. A premium selection of alcoholic

snowshoeing, skijoring and snowmobiling.

as well as off-ranch visits to local rodeos.

drinks during meal times is included.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

47

WYOMING As lovers of the ranching life, we’re always excited when visiting the Cowboy State. But Wyoming is much more than Stetsons and lassos.

You can travel across different worlds in Wyoming.

Find alpine vistas in Grand Teton, explore the Wild West frontier at Cheyenne, then watch the ground boil at the alien, volcanic landscapes in Yellowstone National Park.

BISON, BIGHORN & BUFFALO BILL Wyoming put the ‘cow’ into ‘cowboy’. Working ranches are still in full swing around the state, with riders herding cattle, bison herding people, and rodeo shows that’ll get your blood pumping.

Stetsons feel like a compulsory piece of attire as you wander down the wooden sidewalks at Jackson. You’ll never want to take your hat off as you ride through the endless outdoors with your crew of wranglers.

EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF NATURE AT YELLOWSTONE Yellowstone National Park sizzles with seismic activity.

With over half of the planet’s geysers, including the world famous Old Faithful, the park has natural sights literally bursting from the ground.

Yellowstone’s volcanic character makes it one of the most stunning places to visit in the world. And its wildlife makes it even more so, with huge grizzly bears, wolves and massive bison roaming the vast plains.

RELIVE THE HISTORIC SIDE OF THE WILD WEST There’s more to the West than Cowboys and Indians.

It’s home to the great pioneers. Visit the Buffalo Bill Centre in Cody to learn more at its trio of museums.

You can watch bucking broncos during the Cody Nite Rodeos in summer.

In Cheyenne, you can ride through the historic town on the Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley to sites such as the Governor’s Mansion. Visit the town in July for the Cheyenne Frontier Days where you can get your thrills from the world’s largest outdoor rodeo.

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WYOMING

The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek

Goosewing Ranch

GOOSEWING RANCH

The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch

THE HIDEOUT LODGE & GUEST RANCH

THE LODGE & SPA AT BRUSH CREEK

At 7,400 feet, Goosewing Ranch sits in a

Nestled at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains

The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek lies on

remote corner of North America and is home

in the Shell Valley, The Hideout is an upscale

30,000 acres of land on Rocky Mountain

to elk, moose, bears and eagles. Used as

working cattle ranch welcoming single

high country. This luxurious ranch is ideal for

the filming location of The Little House on the

travellers, couples and families with older

couples and families looking to experience

Prairie, this guest ranch offers spectacular

children. It boasts an intimate and personal

the west without sacrificing true luxury. It is an

riding scenery.

experience with an excellent staff-to-guest ratio.

indulgent lodge with great customer service.

Known for its attention to detail and guest

This boutique resort has placed a huge

The choice of experiences here seem endless

satisfaction, this boutique resort offers an

emphasis on cattle work, horsemanship and

with over 50 miles of private trails and open

intimate stay accommodating only 35 guests at

of course riding. Accommodating only 25,

range for horseback riding, mountain biking,

any one time. Riding trails take place in small

guests enjoy a friendly and nurturing setting. In

hiking and trail running. Challenge pursuits

groups with riders of all levels welcomed, a

the ranch itself, emerald green lawns surround

include a ropes course, zip lines and paintball.

combination of trail and fast rides are offered.

the cabins, connecting them to the main lodge

For a slower pace of life there are over 20

Children can attend a short daily camp while

and facilities such as the swimming pool and

miles of private waters for fly fishing or head

everyone is welcome to join in with other

hot tub. Non-riding activities are fantastic here

to The Trailhead Spa. Even the dining is an

activities offered such as fly fishing, mountain

including fly fishing, hiking and biking. Dining

experience, from creekside dinner camps to

biking or a soak in the outdoor heated pool.

at The Hideout is a true highlight.

dining alfresco at Falcon Peak Overlook.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

49

COLORADO Mountainous Colorado is as beautiful in the summer as it is in the winter. Blue rivers run in ribbons around the Rocky Mountain range, with wild flowers and red rock formations bringing colour to the grey and white backdrop of the Rockies.

THE MILE HIGH CITY High up in the mountains, the state capital of Denver has blossomed from its Gold Rush beginnings to a city crammed with history, shopping and culture. Not every city has such an impressive backdrop of snowcapped mountains.

Only an hour away is Colorado Springs, the state’s largest city. Hike around the Garden of the Gods or ride back in time on one of the vintage railroads.

PARKS & RECREATION Colorado is a patchwork of national parks. Each park has a different natural wonder to experience.

Visit the cliffside dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park, climb Pikes Peak at Colorado Springs on an old Cog Railway, have fun in the sand at the Great Sand Dunes National Park and enjoy mountain sports at the Rocky Mountain National Park. We can help make your experience all the more authentic with stays at guest and working ranches.

TAKE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS There are adventures down every canyon and crevasse in Colorado. Activities like mountain biking, hiking and jeep tours give you new ways to explore the red rock. Colorado is riddled with rapids, some gentler rivers for families and white-water rapids for the more adventurous soul.

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COLORADO

COLORADO HISTORIC SCENIC RAIL & DRIVE TOUR Explore the beautiful high altitude mountain scenery by rail and road on this unique independent tour which includes historic and spectacular scenic railroads. Pass through deep gorges, cross wooden bridges and climb above the tree line to mountain peaks on historic railroads from the Gold Rush era.

RAILROAD HIGHLIGHTS Enjoy a three mile adventure through Clear Valley Creek to Silver Plume on the Georgetown Loop Railroad Travel for three hours aboard Pikes Peak Cog Railway keeping a lookout for Hells Gate and Deer Park Embark on an all-day adventure between Durango and Silverton on the Narrow Gauge Railway Admire spectacular surroundings all the way to Antonio whilst on the scenic railroad adventure from Durango Take a day-long ride on the historic Rio Grande Scenic Railroad over mountain passes Ride upon the historic Royal Gorge Route Railroad. For those not afraid of heights take a look over the 1,000foot cliffs of the Royal Gorge.

HISTORIC RAILWAYS & RAILROADS OF COLORADO PIKES PEAK COG RAILWAY

CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD

The highest cog railway in the world, Pikes Peak

Designated a National Historic Landmark, this

Cog Railway is a three hour journey that travels

3-foot narrow-gauge railroad follows 64 miles of

through spectacular scenery and to an altitude

track between the towns of Chama, New Mexico

of 14,115 feet. Travel along Ruxton Creek

and Antonio, CO. A unique journey by steam

through dense stands of Englemann Spruce in the

train, along the way, you will pass the San Juan

Englemann Canyon. Pass Minnehaha Falls, look

Mountains, Conejos Valley and often spot many

out for mule deer as you pass through Deer Park

species of wildlife. Head for the Open Gondola,

and continue through 2,000 year old Bristlecone

where you can experience the vistas in an open-

Pines. Old mining towns of Cripple Creek and

air environment.

Victor sit at the foot of Pikes Peak while at the summit you can enjoy 30 minutes of free time to enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and skyscrapers of downtown Denver.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

51

COLORADO

BLACK MOUNTAIN DROWSY WATER RANCH RANCH

52

BAR LAZY J RANCH

Experience the authentic West at this high

The Fosha family welcome you to Drowsy

Sat at an elevation of 7,500 feet over a

country guest ranch situated on 1,000 acres

Water Guest Ranch. Spread over a private

peaceful valley, this intimate and family-friendly

of private land between Vail and Steamboat

mountain valley and surrounded by the

guest ranch welcomes all levels of riders.

Springs. Welcoming all abilities, Black

beauty of the Rocky Mountain National Park,

Accommodation is set in cosy private log

Mountain has a dozen rooms and suites, all

experience a real taste of the Wild West with

cabins decorated in a traditional western style,

decked in a traditional ranch cabin style.

hayrides, campfires and family-style meals.

which adds to the authenticity of the ranch.

Families are well-catered for with dedicated

The real draw to this ranch is the people

Other than horse riding, gold medal fly fishing,

family rides and each season there are a select

who run it; turn-up as strangers and leave as

mountain biking, zip lining and guided hikes

few adult-only weeks should you prefer. Jump

friends. The dance nights are always popular

as well as use of the heated swimming pool,

in the saddle for rides through Routt National

with the whole family, whereas the dedicated

hot tub and barn with games are available

Forest, join cowboys in herding the Texan

Rangerider programme ensures children,

for guests to enjoy. Kids love Bar Lazy J with

longhorn cattle and go on their award-winning

ranging from 6-13 have an excellent time too,

a programme for ages 7-12 and wrangler

pack trip. For an adventure on the river, white-

learning skills such as archery and river rafting

led horseback rides for the littler ones. The

water rafting is included too. Back at the ranch,

and mastering trail rides and obstacle courses.

gymkhana on Saturday afternoons is a real hit,

unwind in the hot tub or swimming pool and

Adults too can enjoy the ranch’s excellent riding

as is the bottomless cookie jar. Each evening

in the evenings, enjoy live entertainment in the

on morning and afternoon rides, as well as

gather round with the family for entertainment

saloon or alternatively, spend the evening at a

additional activities such as fly fishing, mountain

from cowboy singing to a Kids’ Pow Wow or

nearby rodeo (subject to time of year).

biking and guided biking.

Adults’ Campfire and on Saturdays, a rodeo.

COLORADO

ELK MOUNTAIN RANCH

FOCUS RANCH

COLORADO CATTLE COMPANY

Colorado’s highest guest ranch at a height of

Focus Ranch is a real working cattle ranch

For an authentic cattle ranch experience,

9,600 feet offers awe-inspiring views of the

set in territory once familiar to Butch Cassidy

choose a stay at Colorado Cattle Company. This

San Isabel National Forest and surrounding

and the Sundance Kid. Owned by

working ranch encourages guests to get involved

peaks and valley. Elk Mountain is well suited

a delightful couple, the ranch is home to

in all aspects of ranch life, from branding to

to beginners and families looking for trail rides

over a thousand yearling cattle during the

checking for broken fencing to gathering bulls.

and offers an intimate stay with just 30 guests.

summer.

The option to relax is available too.

The main focus is on getting out and about and

This is a great place to hone your riding skills,

Guests are limited to only 12 and minimum age

included in most stays are a luncheon trail ride,

as it focuses on cross-country rather than

limit for working on a ranch is 18. With 80

a brunch trail ride, hay rides and campfires.

nose-to-tail or trail. Great instructors mean that

horses varying in temperament this ranch caters

Other activities are equally appealing from

riding isn’t limited to seasoned riders, in fact

for all riding levels. Days start early and are

white-water rafting to archery and a visit to the

it is highly suitable for those of all levels. The

jam-packed full of activities enabling guests to

town of Aspen. Children particularly enjoy the

exciting cattle drives are offered throughout

get a true experience of a working ranch, with

goat walk and afternoon at the hot springs pool

the season but a great tip is if you are wanting

some cattle-running right through to dinner time.

and slide. Once the summer school holidays

more cattle work, the best time to visit is

Afternoons are usually dedicated to cowboy

are over and the Fall colours are turning

between late May and early August. Aside

school where you can try your hand at roping,

the mountains into a golden grandeur, Elk

from riding, the ranch offers superb fishing

team penning, barrel racing and other activities

Mountain Ranch offers a number of adult only

opportunities and hiking both on the ranch

all designed to help improve cattle handling

dude ranch weeks.

and in the stunning forest of Medicine Bowl.

skills and riding.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

53

MID WEST

THE MID WEST IS AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARK PICK ’N MIX. WHETHER YOU’RE ENTICED BY THE JAGGED PEAKS AND INTRIGUING NAMES OF THE BLACK HILLS AND BADLANDS IN SOUTH DAKOTA, WANT TO DISCOVER THE FRONTIER DAYS AND COWBOYS OF THE WILD WEST IN DENVER, COLORADO, OR FEEL LIKE GAZING UP AT THE VAST FACES OF THE PRESIDENTS CARVED INTO MOUNT RUSHMORE, WE KNOW THE PARK THAT’S JUST RIGHT FOR YOU.

SOUTH DAKOTA & IDAHO

SOUTH DAKOTA & IDAHO Head to the quieter Northwestern states of South Dakota and

HOME TO GREAT FACES

Idaho. You can get a taste for the Wild West at Deadwood, home

& GREAT PLACES

to famous cowboys. Travel through the wilderness in Idaho among

American history is literally

canyons and craters. Then get your camera ready as you stop off at

carved in the landscape at South

South Dakota, home to the iconic Mount Rushmore.

Dakota. The faces of Presidents Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt

DON’T UNDERESTIMATE LITTLE OLD IDAHO

and Jefferson stand at 60 feet at

Idaho may not be the most well-known state, unless you’re a fan of

the famous Mount Rushmore. Just

potatoes or gemstones. But being quieter and smaller than the other

around the corner, you can find

ranching states means it has miles and miles of untouched scenery.

the Crazy Horse monument, the

Idaho still holds onto its authentic charms. With exhilarating white-water

statue that honours the Native

rafting at Hells Canyon and bizarre lunar landscape at the Craters of

American leader. Away from

the Moon monument, there’s much for adventurers to enjoy.

the great faces, you can find spectacular places at Badlands National Park where jagged cliffs

Starting at Denver, head into

pierce the sky in different colours.

South Dakota for a chance to see Mount Rushmore and maybe

56

ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE

try gold panning in the Big

WILD WEST

Thunder gold mine. Zip across

We believe that the best way to

to Wyoming to see Devil Tower,

experience South Dakota and

then soak up the history at the

Idaho is on the road, especially

Little Bighorn at Montana. Cruise

as flying into South Dakota is a bit

towards Idaho for the last leg of

tricky. Combine these states with

the trip with a taster of Native

Montana and Wyoming on a

American history, before salmon

fly-drive holiday.

fishing on Snake River.

KANSAS & OKLAHOMA

KANSAS & OKLAHOMA Swap the sea for an ocean of amber grain, rippling in the breeze as far as the eye can see in the Heartland States of the USA. Welcome to the land of plenty, where cowboys still work the land and many a historic settler trail and trading route criss-crosses the countryside.

From real working ranches to fascinating museums dedicated to the western frontier, Kansas and Oklahoma offer history on a plate with a side order of sun-ripened corn.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE KANSAS Homely Kansas feels light years away from the hustle and bustle of New York and LA. This is a good thing when you saddle up and take to the beckoning plains for a perfect riding adventure. Follow in the hoof prints of cowboys who drove their cattle to the expanding railroad before ‘gettin’ the Hell outta Dodge’ (City). Mind you, not all of Kansas’ characters sit on a horse and wear a cowboy hat. Topeka, Lawrence and Wichita are crammed with culture – from indie music venues to Indian museums.

OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL OKLAHOMA! The old game of Cowboys and Indians has reality in Oklahoma. With its name coming from the old Choctaw word for ‘red people’, Oklahoma is steeped in Native American history with nearly 40 tribes living off the red earth. Side by side, the Wild West comes to life – from the open range to the rugged Wichita Mountains and Green Country.

A ROAD-TRIPPER’S DAY-DREAM There’s no better way to explore Kansas and Oklahoma than with a fly-drive. Route 66 (and 56 and 50) takes you on an incredible journey through the Heartland States. The drive to Great Bend in Kansas takes you to Fort Larned National Historic Site and the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway.

Cross the state into Oklahoma. Tulsa is at the heart of the state’s burgeoning music scene, as well as being the birthplace of Route 66. Drive the Mother Road to Oklahoma City, stopping off at the legendary Rock Cafe and Chandler’s Route 66 Interpretive Center en route to OKC’s world class National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

57

COWBOYS, PRESIDENTS & GEYSERS FLY-DRIVE From the nostalgic Old Towns of Montana to the crashing thermal geysers of Wyoming and the monumental Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota, uncover the history of the Wild West with a great American road trip through the National Parks of the Rocky Mountains.

DENVER, COLORADO Cleverly dubbed ‘Mile High City’ because of its position, well, exactly a mile above sea level, Denver is Colorado’s only metropolis.

BLACK HILLS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

Head downtown to hip Larimer Square for a spot of shopping and

Stare up at the cliff-carved faces of the iconic Mount Rushmore National

explore the elegantly restored Victorian architecture and quaint

Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial commemorating a Native

courtyards. Tour Denver’s celebrated microbreweries – sampling the

American Warrior. Spend the night in Deadwood – home to Wild West

award-winning produce.

characters like Calamity Jane.

DENVER, COLORADO – CHEYENNE, WYOMING (102 miles)

THE BLACK HILLS – BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH DAKOTA

Arrive in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Learn how the history of the Frontier

(100 miles)

Days shaped the region at the Old West Museum. In the town centre,

Soak up the blend of Native American and cowboy heritage of

visit the State Capitol, Big Boy Steam Engine and Cheyenne Depot.

Rapid City. Roam through gaping canyons and past towering buttes

Travel in July to catch the exhilarating week-long Rodeo.

in the Badlands National Park. Visit the fossil lab to reveal the park’s ancient history.

CHEYENNE – BLACK HILLS, SOUTH DAKOTA (280 miles) Continue to Black Hills, exploring the world’s sixth longest cave at

BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK – BISMARK, NORTH DAKOTA

the Wind Cave National Park en route. Spot roaming bison on the

(290 miles)

18-mile Wildlife Loop Road that runs through Custer State Park; the

Uncover the Native American domed ‘earth lodges’ in Mandan,

US’s second largest state park.

roofed with soil. Walk in the footsteps of the region’s former commander, General Custer, at Fort Abraham Lincoln.

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HELENA – GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, MONTANA (205 miles) Explore Glacier National Park by driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road or embark on a hike – keeping eyes peeled for grizzly bears and bighorn sheep. Trade the four wheels for a hull and travel along the Missouri River by boat, drifting through the striking, steep-sided ravine at the Gates of the Mountains.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK – BUTTE, MONTANA (250 miles) Soak up the vistas overlooking Flathead Lake and perhaps take to the water in a canoe. Divert towards Philipsburg to sift gravel and mine for sapphires or visit the nearby Ranch at Rock Creek.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, WYOMING (178 miles) Virginia City or Nevada City old mining towns have retained their Old West feel and downtown Butte is awash with history.

BUTTE – YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, WYOMING While it isn’t quite enough to do Yellowstone justice, spend a whole day exploring the park in search of wildlife. Don’t miss nature’s thermal playground, Old Faithful Geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs and Yellowstone Lake.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK – CODY, WYOMING (117 miles) Follow scenic Beartooth Highway south to explore history at the Buffalo Bill Centre of the West.

CODY – RIVERTON, WYOMING (138 miles) Relax in Thermopolis’ mineral hot springs. Continue south, winding through ancient cliffs of the Wind River Canyon.

BISMARK – THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK,

RIVERTON – JACKSON, WYOMING (165 miles)

NORTH DAKOTA (135 miles)

Visit ancient log buildings in Dubois before playing cowboy in Jackson –

Detour south onto the Enchanted Highway; 32 miles of road adorned

tread wooden sidewalks to traditional Wild West saloon bars.

with intricate and impressive metal sculptures. Theodore Roosevelt frequented the North Dakota Badlands – learn of the President’s visits at

GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK, WYOMING (138 miles)

the South Unit Visitor Centre in the park that now bears his name.

Drive the 42-mile scenic loop through the towering, jagged peaks of Grand Teton National Park. This fly-drive can be extended by adding a

THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK – BILLINGS, MONTANA

couple of nights at Goosewing Ranch.

(285 miles) Here, find the many stones of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument standing stoic in a field, commemorating both the U.S. 7th Cavalry and the Native American Indians.

BILLINGS – HELENA, MONTANA (240 miles) Explore the Jurassic era at Museum of the Rockies’ impressive dinosaur fossil collection. Walk the main street of Helena, known as the Last Chance Gulch – below which flows the remains of the creek developed by gold-rush era pioneers.

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NEW ENGLAND THE BIRTHPLACE OF AMERICA OOZES WITH HISTORY AND FAMILIAR SOUNDING PLACE NAMES. FOLLOW THE ICONIC FREEDOM TRAIL IN BOSTON AND NAVIGATE HIKING ROUTES ACROSS STRIKING MOUNTAIN RANGES. ENJOY FRESH ATLANTIC LOBSTER IN MAINE OR TAKE TO THE WATERS WITH A LOCAL SKIPPER TO SPOT HUMPBACK AND MINKE WHALES.

NEW ENGLAND New England has something for every season: spring blossoms, summer beaches, autumn leaves of every colour and a winter wonderland. With six small states jostling for space along the east coast, there’s a rich diversity of cultures, cities and landscapes.

Whatever you want to get from your stay in New England, we can create a holiday just for you. Find the famous Ivy League universities, such as Harvard and Yale, with their varsity sports in full swing. Or simply relax as you take in the alpine glory of snowy peaks and leafy hills.

MASSACHUSETTS Start your New England pilgrimage in Massachusetts.

Unlike the first colony, who arrived on the Mayflower in Plymouth, you’ll disembark in Boston, where history makes the city legendary.

In Boston, you can discover the past by walking along the Freedom Trail. Then mingle with the students as you make a detour into Harvard Square, home to the prestigious Harvard University, or splash out at the Prudential Centre for some retail therapy. Maybe mourn the loss of Empire as you visit the site of the Boston Tea Party protest.

There’s more to Massachusetts than history. With beautiful beaches lining Cape Cod, you can explore charming towns such as Chatham and Falmouth. Try some of the best seafood around in their restaurants and, if you time it right, you can see whales breaching the silver sea from a front-row seat in Provincetown.

MAINE Experience the east coast charm in Maine. The glorious coastline spreads out in a jagged line of cliffs and pebbly beaches, with iconic lighthouses standing sentry on the headlands, such as Bass Head Harbor Lighthouse. We’ve got many activities for outdoorsy types here. In Boothbay Harbor, go kayaking and whale watching – at the same time. Then hike and bike all day long in the Acadia National Park. Wind down in the evening with fresh lobster and a cool glass of wine.

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NEW ENGLAND NEW HAMPSHIRE

RHODE ISLAND

You won’t find mountains in Old Hampshire – but in New

Rhode Island is tiny, 200 times smaller than Texas. There’s

Hampshire, mountains and lakes set the scene throughout

still plenty to see though, such as Newport, the main

the state. Walk past waterfalls for a hiking adventure

town, which was once a favourite spot for America’s rich

through the heart of the state.

and famous. Find massive summer mansions looming over the coastline, and head out to sea on a yacht for

Get behind the wheel and drive along ‘The Kanc’ or

a fantastic sailing experience. Enjoy the buzz of this

hop aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway for

harbour town where there’s fresh fish on the menu.

more stunning scenery. Experience the beautiful White Mountains on the Scenic Railroad. Just make sure you visit

CONNECTICUT

one of the quaint towns, such as Wolfeboro and Meredith.

In between New York and Boston, Connecticut may get left in the sidelines. But freedom from mass tourism has

VERMONT

been a godsend for Connecticut as much of the state is

From Stowe to Lake Champlain, you’ll find scenic bliss

completely rural. Hills, lakes and forests cover Litchfield,

in the mountains and rolling green hills of Vermont. With

whereas the Quiet Corner is just that – quiet – with farms

kayaking, biking and hiking all on the list of things to do,

and meadows covering the uninterrupted countryside.

you’ll be busy, especially if you drive along the Kingdom Trails Network.

Yale University has its home in New Haven, a city not known for much – except being the home of American

You can travel to the quaint town of Woodstock for

Pizza. Launch yourself back in time at Mystic Seaport

a taste of New England tranquillity. But if you want to

where the museum is a perfectly preserved 19th Century

discover the more lively side of the state, stay in Stowe

whaling village.

up in the mountains and visit Ben & Jerry’s factory for some delicious ice cream. Burlington is only a stone’s throw from the glittering Lake Champlain with cute galleries and wonderful restaurants you can visit on the way to the harbour.

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NEW ENGLAND

CLASSIC NEW ENGLAND FLY-DRIVE

MAINE – NEW HAMPSHIRE (244 miles) Pass stunning scenery carpeted in forest and glistening freshwater lakes to reach the White Mountains for a hike (or drive) to the summit of Mount Washington. Take a nostalgic train trip on the restored Conway Scenic Railroad or visit the Great Lakes area.

Bigger doesn’t always mean better – the USA’s smallest states cluster

NEW HAMPSHIRE – VERMONT (141 miles)

around the country’s Northeastern tip, spanning stunning rolling hills

Take the scenic route along the Kancamagus Highway to reach Lincoln,

and rocky coastlines, and are home to cities with deep roots in the

Vermont, stopping to visit the picture-perfect, quaint New England

region’s founding history. Prepare for an in-depth exploration of New

villages of Stowe and Woodstock. Stretch your legs on a hike around

England with this Fly-Drive holiday, taking you through six states:

pretty Lake Champlain or enjoy a round of golf in the Vermont mountains

Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut and

at Manchester Village.

Rhode Island.

VERMONT – CONNECTICUT (260 miles) BOSTON

Nose around Yale University while you’re in New Haven and visit

Dive straight into the history books with a walk down the Freedom

Mystic’s living 19th century history museum.

Trail, a red bricked route that traverses the iconic historic sites that litter Massachusetts’ capital, Boston. Explore the old-world charm and diverse

CONNECTICUT – RHODE ISLAND (119 miles)

neighbourhoods, from the old town in North End to the statue-lined

Explore Rhode Island’s charming yacht town of Newport – the old

Boston Common Park and bustling Quincy Market.

stomping ground of America’s rich and famous and tour summer mansions built in the Gilded Age.

BOSTON – MAINE (241 miles) Snap up some bargains at the outlet shopping villages en route

RHODE ISLAND – CAPE COD (118 miles)

to Portland – home of sumptuous fresh seafood and world-famous

With beautiful Cape Cod as your base, walk along the beaches of

lobster cuisine. Spend a quiet night in the charming coastal town,

Chatham or Falmouth and take to the sea from Provincetown for a

Kennebunkport, before continuing your journey to Bar Harbor to explore

spectacular glimpse of whales breaching.

the glacier-carved granite peaks of Acadia National Park.

CAPE COD – BOSTON (88 Miles) 64

NEW ENGLAND

THE BEST OF CAPE COD & THE ISLANDS FLY-DRIVE For travellers wanting to get a flavour of New England but only have time to explore one state in depth, this Fly-Drive is the perfect compromise. Immerse yourself in Massachusetts on a 9-day tour taking you through the history of bustling Boston to the stunning Atlantic coastline, around Cape Cod and the islands.

BOSTON When in Boston, do as the locals do; don your best blue and red jersey head to a Red Sox baseball game. Once you’ve tried clam chowder, embark on the Freedom Trail for an interactive introduction into the state’s history.

PROVINCETOWN – NANTUCKET (76 miles including ferry crossing) Board the high speed ferry to Nantucket Island and tour the cobbled

BOSTON – CHATHAM (88 miles)

cottage-lined streets once home to merchants and captains and the

Visit the replica of The Mayflower, in Plymouth – the boat used to

lighthouses overlooking cranberry bogs and the Nantucket Moors.

transport the pilgrims across the Atlantic – then use charming Chatham town as a base from which explore the beaches, lighthouse and quaint

NANTUCKET – MARTHA’S VINEYARD (38 miles including ferry crossing)

New England villages of Cape Cod.

Another ferry journey is in store from Woods Hole, taking you to the island of Martha’s Vineyard where you can cycle around Edgartown,

CHATHAM – PROVINCETOWN (37 miles)

take in the sweeping Atlantic views and sample freshly-caught seafood.

Pack a camera (and a waterproof jacket) for a whale watching cruise in the hope of spotting migrating humpback, finback or minke whales.

MARTHA’S VINEYARD – BOSTON (95 miles including ferry crossing)

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NEW ENGLAND – HOTELS

FAIRMONT COPLEY PLAZA BOSTON Found right in the heart of Boston’s Copley Square, this hotel is a

Housed in a grand limestone building that was once an old police

truly grand and charming property. For added luxury, the Fairmont

headquarters, this hotel is a blend of historic charm and authentic New

Gold rooms offer a level of luxury serving breakfast and evening

England hospitality. Set in the exclusive Back Bay location, close to some

hors d’oeuvres. The OAK Long Bar + Kitchen is a favourite among

of the city’s most treasured sights including Harvard University and Boston

Bostonians with its farm-to-table dining, cocktails and laid-back charm.

College, this large hotel is perfect for exploring the city. It boasts 222

Perfectly located for exploring the city, this hotel is an opulent choice in

spacious rooms, with a city favourite restaurant serving New England

beautiful Boston.

seafood specialities and classic American favourites.

CHATHAM BARS INN CHATHAM

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LOEWS BOSTON

WEQUASSETT RESORT AND GOLF CLUB – CAPE COD

Originally built as a hunting lodge in 1914 for visitors from Boston, this

Nestled on the edge of Cape Cod, this quintessential New England

luxurious and elegant hotel is situated facing the beach offering views

hotel boasts an array of amenities that work well for both families and

across the Atlantic Ocean. Spread over 25 acres, accommodation

couples. Featuring 120 charming rooms and suites, two swimming

includes the Main Inn, cottages with rooms and suites, and Spa Suites,

pools, a championship golf course and a choice of highly acclaimed,

all decorated in a traditional New England style. Whether it’s relaxing

award-winning restaurants, relaxation is the key to its charm. The two

in the serene spa, swimming in the pool by the beach or playing

pristine and wide expanses of beach are simply perfect for long lazy

tennis, there’s an activity for all.

days with a book in hand.

NEW ENGLAND – HOTELS

WHITE ELEPHANT HOTEL/ VILLAGE – NANTUCKET

THE WAUWINET NANTUCKET

Situated on the waterfront, only minutes from the boutiques, restaurants

Occupying a unique location on the Northeast Coast, this is the only

and art galleries, White Elephant Hotel is truly treasured. Open from

Relais and Châteaux hotel on the island. Boasting two private beaches,

mid-April to early December, couples and families love this hotel.

one facing the Atlantic Ocean and the other, Nantucket Bay, it is a

Boasting 54 rooms and 11 garden cottages, décor is elegant yet

haven for adults and those with older children. Accommodation is

understated. White Elephant Village, more suited to those staying

classic and sophisticated and adorned with fresh wildflowers. Topper’s

longer, offers luxury suites and extremely well-appointed one – three

Restaurant is arguably one of the best on the island, and the Spa by the

bedroom residences.

Sea, is a delight.

VANDERBILT GRACE RHODE ISLAND

THE WHITE BARN INN MAINE

Located in the charming harbour and historic Thames Street area, this

The White Barn Inn is a New England treat. Its presence has been

striking former mansion is the address to stay in Newport. Built in 1909

in Kennebunk, Maine for over 150 years. The 26-room inn offers

by the Vanderbilt family and lovingly restored by the family-owned Grace

its guests a supreme level of service with a selection of activities on

Hotels, it is now a contemporary and stylish offering with 33 rooms and

offer for warmer days. The large outdoor swimming pool is idyllic

suites. After a day in Newport, take a dip in the indoor or outdoor pool

and the spa area is perfect for relaxing after a long flight. This is

before sitting back on the roof terrace looking out to the harbour for the

the quintessential New England property boasting old world charm

incredible Newport sunset.

with modern day luxuries.

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THE SOUTH

GATHER UP THE COWBOY BOOTS AND VISIT THE PROUD BIRTHPLACE OF THE BLUES AND LAVISH PLANTATION MANOR HOUSES FROZEN IN TIME. TRAVERSE WILD MOUNTAINS AND VAST OPEN PLAINS. WITH DEEP ROOTS STILL FIRMLY PLANTED IN A SOIL OF MUDDY POLITICAL HISTORY, THRIVING MUSIC AND UNRIVALLED SOUL FOOD, THE SOUTHERN STATES (AND THEIR OCCUPANTS’ HOSPITALITY) ARE NOT TO BE UNDERESTIMATED.

TEXAS The second biggest state in the US doesn’t do things by half, and neither should you. From big city life in Houston and Dallas to vast open spaces twice the size of Germany – you’ll always find something big and beautiful in the Lone Star State.

With Dude ranches, the Gulf coast and Tex-Mex food in the south, we’ll help you experience rhinestone, Texan life to the max (or Mex).

THE COWBOY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD Reach for those cowboy boots and suede jackets because if you visit Bandera, you’ll look out of place without them. Bandera has authentic Old Western charm down to a tee.

Whether you’re just passing through or staying at the Mayan Dude or Dixie Dude ranches, you can experience the west with horse riding and a hearty meal out of a chuckwagon. Dosey doe at a local honky-tonk and clink beer flagons with your partner with a hoarse ‘yeehaw’!

LIVE MUSIC & MUCH ELSE BESIDES IN AUSTIN No trip to Texas would be right without live music. And in Austin, the state capital, music hums down every street at night. Relax to the mellow riffs of some Country and Western, or get dancing to some rock ‘n’ roll at one of the 200 live music venues in the city.

If you’re after history in Texas, head to San Antonio for a tour around the Alamo. After something more recent?

Drive to Houston and tour the famous Space Centre.

WHEREVER YOU GO IN TEXAS, DON’T MISS DALLAS Tour the bright lights of Dallas for a bit of modern culture.

With the largest arts district in the USA, there’s always something to do. Watch a game of Football at the AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys or head to the American Airlines Center for some basketball.

After that, you can splash your cash in Dallas at the Galleria Dallas for shopping or head to Deep Ellum for its hip nightlife. If you ever get tired of the city lights, visit nearby Fort Worth for some action during the daily Fort Worth cattle drive.

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GUEST RANCH

TEXAS

WILDCATTER RANCH Located in the heartland of northwest Texas, this is the perfect destination to escape from busy life. You will never have a dull moment while staying at this Wild West hotspot. The ranch offers over 4,000 acres of countryside from rolling hills to the historic Brazos River and is open year round.

Featuring upscale accommodation and attentive service, it has a very resort-style feel more suited to couples and honeymooners but with a focus on a true ranch experience. The Blowout Saloon is the place to spend an evening with live music and drinks, and aside from trail rides, enjoy clay shooting, archery, fast rides, ATV tours, swimming in the pool and relaxing in the hot tub (some activities available at an additional cost). We recommend travelling by car to the ranch so that lunch can be taken in the nearby town of Graham (this ranch operates on a half

DIXIE DUDE RANCH

MAYAN DUDE RANCH

Situated on 725 acres across Texas Hill Country, Dixie Dude Ranch

Famous for its food, hayrides and horses, the Mayan Dude Ranch has

offers spectacular vistas, with plenty of room to relax. You and

an authentic western flare that many families love to experience. Located

the family can enjoy a wide range of activities such as twice daily

in the beautiful hillsides of San Antonio, this large ranch is open year

horseback trail rides – suitable for all levels, swimming, catch and

round and is famed for its fun, relaxed atmosphere and traditional

release fishing and lots of western fun. Advanced rides, lessons and

Texan hospitality. Learn what it means to live the cowboy lifestyle from

clinics, and occasional overnight pack trips are available.

real cowboys. The ranch has produced seven rodeo world champions.

The atmosphere at Dixie Dude is that of a family gathering and when

Two nose-to-tail rides are offered daily and the ranch is extremely

the cowbell rings, you’ll definitely want to savour the home-cooked

well suited to novices. Spend the remainder of the day enjoying

meals accompanied by iced tea, homemade lemonade and milk.

swimming, fishing, tennis, basketball, volleyball and in the evenings,

Dixie Dude Ranch is quite simply the quintessential country ranch.

hayrides, western bingo and marshmallow roasts. Known widely for

With Bandera only 10 minutes away, nearby attractions include the

its delicious cuisine, each day offers new menu choices from barbecue

Frontier Times Museum.

to Mexican cuisine.

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GUEST RANCH

board basis).

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THE DEEP SOUTH The birthplace of the blues, jazz and rock ‘n’ roll, the Deep South has music bursting from its jeans seams. Cultures collide on every street with Cajun food on one corner, apple pie on the next, all served with a dash of Southern charm.

You’ll be charmed further by the mix of stunning beaches, alpine vistas and pretty towns.

Starting east of Texas, the Deep South covers Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. Immerse yourself in history – both recent and old – and music in abundance as you cruise through the vibrant states. But don’t end your American adventure in the south. We recommend extending your stay so you can experience the neighbouring states of Texas and South Carolina.

LOUISIANA There is always something happening in Louisiana, and not just in the Big Easy, New Orleans. Head into the stunning plantation country and visit one of the large, pristine mansions. Wander the bayous or enjoy skimming across the swamps on an air-powered boat. Zip along the Creole Nature Trail where you’ll feel a thrill when you spot alligators in the murky depths.

Any visit to Louisiana wouldn’t be complete without a day or longer in New Orleans. You can hear the smooth blues of local jazz on every street, taste every European influence in a cup of gumbo, and throw on some multi-coloured beads as you party through the streets. Soak up the atmosphere on Bourbon Street and admire the stunning architecture of the French Quarter, the oldest area of the city. Perhaps take a cocktail walking tour to learn about the first cocktail ever created, the Sazerac.

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THE DEEP SOUTH TENNESSEE Where modern country music, blues and rock ‘n’ roll began. Saying that life in Tennessee thrives on music is an understatement. Lose yourself in the country blues of Nashville before walking in Elvis’s blue suede shoes in Memphis. Take a tour around the home of the King at Graceland.

After a night on Beale Street, journey to the capital of Nashville for live music. Take a break from dancing and head into the less explored areas of Tennessee and a visit to a stunning plantation outside the city limits.

Head east to Dollywood, a theme park dedicated to the state’s favourite daughter, Dolly Parton.

Dollywood is nestled in a valley near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with mistcovered mountains and wide, sweeping plains.

GEORGIA Everything’s peachy perfect in Georgia, the Peach State. With stunning beaches in the Golden Isles, bustling city-livin’ in Atlanta and a musical culture spreading across the largest state in the Mississippi region, Georgia distils into the perfect blend of the south. The powerhouse corporations found a foothold in Atlanta, but that doesn’t stop the state capital from feeling like a large, friendly neighbourhood.

Georgia’s countryside has towering mountains, wild marshlands, wide-open plains and gushing rivers. It’s got all you need for a memorable trip.

Explore the great outdoors in the Chattahoochee National Forest and Native American history in the legacy of the Cherokee Indians. You can find a peaceful side of civilisation in coastal Savannah with its country town feel – you might recognise its 22 public squares from ‘Forrest Gump’.

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THE DEEP SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Listen to the soul of the south in bluesy Mississippi.

Cruising through this state on the road is a must – especially if you drive from Memphis on ‘The Blues Highway’, Highway 61, to Vicksburg and see the Mississippi Delta. History bursts out of the diverse cities of Mississippi. Discover events both famous and infamous in the many museums from the BB King Museum to the National Military Park where the battle of Vicksburg took place.

Autumn is the best time of year to visit Mississippi with the cotton blooming and blues festivals galore in the Delta where you can savour the local delicacies of catfish, BBQ and tamales. Elvis’s birthplace in Tupelo is a must-see and the BB King Museum in Indianola is a key site on the Mississippi Blues Trail. For a taste of Mark Twain and Gone with the Wind, Natchez has more than 400 antebellum mansions and possibly the best sunsets over Ol’ Man River.

ALABAMA In Alabama, there are two things you can’t get away from – history and football.

Everywhere people celebrate the work of Martin Luther King Jr, in museums, memorials and Institutes.

Find the sights of the world-changing movement in Montgomery, where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat and Birmingham, where riots scarred the streets as the battle for human rights boiled over.

The party never ends in Tuscaloosa during the football season, home city to the Crimson Tide.

Don’t let Alabama’s history distract you from the breathtaking beauty throughout the state. From the white-sand beaches to fishing villages, let the lyrics of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ ring true as you slip into the sleepy fishing villages. The not-so-sleepy town of Mobile will treat you to a hearty Alabama welcome as you sit back with your burger and beer, with cicadas chirping in the evening.

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THE DEEP SOUTH

TOTALLY TENNESSEE FLY-DRIVE Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the south with this flydrive holiday through Tennessee. Journey through the ancient forest that carpets the Great Smoky Mountain range, on the watch for black bears, before descending deeper into America’s musical heartland to explore the birthplace of blues, rock ‘n roll, and The King.

ATLANTA After arriving in Georgia, explore the vast city of Atlanta and visit the Civil Rights Museum before your Tennessee journey starts.

ATLANTA – CHATTANOOGA (118 miles)

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS – NASHVILLE (221 miles)

And on, to the Deep South! Take a peek under the waves and greet the

In Nashville, it’s time to get to know the region’s soul; music. Visit the

sharks at the Tennessee Aquarium. Here, stay in a converted old train car

Country Music Hall of Fame, settle back in your chair for a performance at

at the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel.

the Grand Ole Opry and tour the iconic RCA Studio B, where thousands of records have been produced by popular music titans – including Elvis

CHATTANOOGA – GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS (154 miles)

himself. Take a trip to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg for a tour of

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the Tennessee-South

the only factory where this world-famous liquor is lovingly made.

Carolina border. Stay in a traditional lodge cabin and spend a day exploring the landscape and keeping an eye out for the stars of the park’s

NASHVILLE – MEMPHIS (212 miles)

wildlife – black bears and white tailed-deer. In Pigeon Forge, visit Dolly

No music fan’s visit to Memphis would be complete without a walk in

Parton’s theme park, Dollywood.

Elvis’ shoes in Graceland. Visit the Sun Studio, before exploring the Rock N Soul Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum and enjoy a last night in the music club district of Beale Street.

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THE DEEP SOUTH

TREASURES OF LOUISIANA FLY-DRIVE Soak up the soulful sounds of smooth blues and jazz in New Orleans, where music oozes from every corner. With this fly-drive holiday you’ll embark on a journey through the history of the Deep South, exploring the shuttered mansions of plantation country and the vibrant cultural melting pot of Lafayette.

NEW ORLEANS

PLANTATION COUNTRY – NATCHITOCHES (200 miles)

Immerse yourself in the history of New Orleans with a visit to the French

Travel to Natchitoches, the oldest settlement in Louisiana. Wander

Quarter, home to the towering St Louis Cathedral, the former city hall,

through the streets lined with magnolia trees and old Creole town

Cabildo. Then it’s time to dive into the heart and soul of the city – walk

houses, past the Cane River and to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.

along Bourborn Street, lined with vibrant bars and step aboard an evening jazz cruise to float down the river. Discover the New Orleans’

NATCHITOCHES – LAKE CHARLES (121 miles)

creative scene at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and don’t leave

Explore the Creole Nature Trail National Scenic Byway – one of

New Orleans without trying a Po-Boy, a traditional dish of French bread

the oldest in the country – and visit the wildlife refuges to spot native

with mayonnaise and fried oysters or shrimp.

alligators and a sample of the 400 bird species known along the route.

NEW ORLEANS – PLANTATION COUNTRY (60 miles)

LAKE CHARLES – LAFAYETTE (75 miles)

Spend two nights exploring the Deep South’s famous Plantation Country.

Head to the ‘Capital of French Louisiana’ to soak up the rich culture and

First visit Oak Alley Plantation, the most photographed home in the state,

learn about the Acadian and Cajun communities that settled in Lafayette.

designed in a beautiful Greek revival style before delving deeper into the

In the town of St Martinville, visit the Catholic Church founded by the

dark side of plantation history with a trip to Laura, A Creole Plantation

Acadians, and discover life on the banks of the bayou with a visit to the

that describes the lives of the slave families. Make a visit to Baton Rouge

living history site at Vermilionville.

to visit the Old Louisiana State Capitol and tour the swamps spotting gators on a small airboat through the bayous.

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LAFAYETTE – NEW ORLEANS (136 miles)

THE DEEP SOUTH ST FRANCISVILLE, LOUISIANA Explore the historic homes and the unique shops of the Old Market Hall before wandering through the parks and pretty Spanish Moss tree-lined streets. *Tour the Alcatraz of the south; the Angola Plantation Penitentiary tour visits what was America’s most notorious prison.

NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI Walk around the magnificent mansions and historic homes, including Rosalie Mansion, a Union headquarters used during the Civil War and the fully restored 1858 Magnolia Hall, and stop off at the oldest structure in Natchez; the wooden King’s Tavern. *Enter the private home of American Queen’s Culinary Director and Chef de Cuisine, Regina Charboneau and enjoy an afternoon of southern hospitality, history and gourmet sweet and savoury treats.

AMERICAN QUEEN STEAMBOAT

VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI Founded in 1811, Vicksburg was described as the ‘Key to the south’

by Abraham Lincoln and is steeped in Civil War history. Here you’ll visit the Lower Mississippi River Museum and the towering red spires of the Church of The Holy Trinity. *Travel to the front lines of one of the most important battlefields in

Journey along the Mississippi River in style aboard the world’s

the country and weave through the 1,300 monuments marking the

largest riverboat. Accompanied by an all American crew, enjoy

Vicksburg National Military Park.

on board authentic southern entertainment and hospitality, three meals a day as well as an afternoon tea and evening drinks.

HELENA, ARKANSAS

The most popular route follows the Lower Mississippi between New

Proud of its rich blues heritage and once a bustling, thriving city, step back

Orleans and Memphis. This journey takes you on a historic and

in time in the now quiet Helena, which seems to be the town time forgot.

musical tour of America’s Deep South.

*Set off on the Blues Trail to Clarksdale, otherwise known as the ‘Birthplace of The Blues’, to enjoy a live musical performance before

Premium Shore Excursions available at an additional cost*

reaching the Greater First Baptist Church for a Gospel Choir performance.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

Spend the day at leisure exploring the history of New Orleans, getting

Step ashore for good in Memphis, where you can extend your trip by

to know the first settlers, culture and understanding the colourful Mardi

spending a few nights in the home of Elvis Presley.

Gras celebrations before you head to the picturesque French Quarter

*Visit the musical mecca of Graceland or take a narrated tour of

to explore the oldest neighbourhood in the city.

Memphis passing famous landmarks, such as The Peabody Hotel,

*Explore the history of New Orleans including the first settlers,

National Civil Rights Museum and the iconic Sun Studio.

religion, culture and Mardi Gras.

OAK ALLEY, LOUISIANA Visit the spectacular architecture and 300 year old oak trees of ‘The Big House’ at Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana’s most photographed historic plantation. A Hop on Hop Off tour is included, visiting Houmas House to explore the plantation grounds that it sits on. *Tour ‘The Big House’ of Oak Alley Plantation and travel along The Great River Road winding through plantation homes and working sugar fields.

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NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA Head down to the charming Carolinas, where the Wild West makes way for the Deep South. Feel the air grow warmer as you cross into South Carolina where accents grow stronger and traditions seep further back into the past.

In the more liberal North Carolina, sleepy coastal towns and golf meccas make it home to the great American Summer vacation.

WHAT’S FINER IN NORTH CAROLINA? A visit to North Carolina wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the coast. Shop at the seaside town of Wilmington, then dine in the shadow of Battleship North Carolina. Further along the windswept coastline, you’ll find stunning scenery at the nearby Outer Banks and Cape Hatteras.

But not all of North Carolina is beaches and golf courses. The central cities have a more upbeat feel, especially Charlotte where you can watch cars zip around at mind-bending speeds at NASCAR. DESCEND INTO THE DEEP SOUTH IN SOUTH CAROLINA Whether you’re after an experience on the roads or a relaxing time at the beach, South Carolina will deliver. Inland, the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway cuts a 112-mile long path through the state, covering a portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains near the Virginian border.

Along the 220 mile coastline, watch the rough Atlantic Ocean froth along miles of golden sands. With historical cities galore, one you must visit is Charleston, a place that never quite left the sleepy colonial past.

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NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA

THE CHARMING CAROLINAS FLY-DRIVE

ASHVILLE – RALEIGH (247 miles) Drop in to Raleigh for a visit to the impressive Capitol Building and the Art, History and Natural Science Museums.

RALEIGH – THE OUTER BANKS (219 miles)

When both North and South Carolina sit side-by-side sharing a

Explore the beautiful coast around The Outer Banks, paying a visit to the

stunning coastline, a welcoming attitude and a wealth of fascinating

quaint town and iconic lighthouse of Cape Hatteras.

history it’s hard to choose which to visit. North Carolina is the longstanding home of tobacco farms while the South grew as part of

OUTER BANKS – MYRTLE BEACH (SOUTH CAROLINA) (333 miles)

plantation country and remains littered with elegant manor houses.

Stop for lunch at Wilmington or Calabash before crossing the state

This fly-drive holiday negates the need to make a decision and covers

border and venturing into South Carolina to follow its gorgeous,

the heart and soul of both these friendly states. Isn’t that convenient.

subtropical coast. Myrtle Beach has twelve towns from which to choose to visit along your journey, but be sure to also stop at its namesake for a

CHARLOTTE (NORTH CAROLINA)

showcase of South Carolina’s lively, upbeat atmosphere.

Start at North Carolina’s largest city, Charlotte, to learn about the Civil War and the life that followed at the Levine Museum of the New South.

MYRTLE BEACH – CHARLESTON (99 miles)

Browse the fresh produce in the 7th Street Public Market, and then step

Explore friendly Charleston’s Peninsula for a peek at the beautiful Boone

up the pace by trying kayaking, climbing or whitewater rafting at the US

Hall Plantation and a variety of pretty antebellum mansions. Both golf and

National Whitewater Center.

beach lovers can enjoy a break at the nearby Kiawah Island.

CHARLOTTE – ASHEVILLE (131 miles) Follow a mountain-hiking trail to reach Chimney Rock in NC’s National Park, search for the Looking Glass Falls natural waterfall in the Pisgah National Forest and, if you’re feeling brave, jump in and shimmy Sliding Rock. Take a wander around America’s largest home, Biltmore House, for an insight into the immense wealth of one of the old families of America.

Golfers can enjoy a round at Asheville’s courses.

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FLORIDA

WITH MORE THAN ITS FAIR SHARE OF WORLD-CLASS BEACHES AND ENVIABLE 100 ANNUAL DAYS OF BLAZING SUNSHINE, FLORIDA BOASTS AN IRRESISTIBLE ALLURE EVEN WITHOUT ITS CHIC, COSMOPOLITAN CITIES. BEACHFRONT BARS PULSE WITH ENERGY IN CREATIVE MIAMI, TIME SLOWS IN EASY-GOING TAMPA, LEGENDARY AMUSEMENT PARKS SURROUND ORLANDO AND ALLIGATORS WAIT IN SWAMPY EVERGLADES.

FLORIDA

MIAMI, FORT LAUDERDALE, PALM BEACH & EVERGLADES It’s safe to say that the Sunshine State certainly lives up to its title. The name alone conjures an image of luxurious beaches stretching far into the horizon, set to a backdrop of bright city lights, extravagant skyscrapers and chic open air bars. Exclusive neighbourhoods tower over pristine golf courses in southern coastal metropolises like Miami, where world class shopping meets warm, clear waters.

Just a short journey into central Florida, the world’s greatest amusement parks entertain the young and the old in Orlando.

Best Time To Go: Florida, like the Caribbean has a wet and potential hurricane season from May to October.

MIAMI, FORT LAUDERDALE & PALM BEACH With historic art deco buildings and open air cafés lining the streets, stroll along South Beach Promenade to see the real Miami before taking your place on the beach. To the north lie exclusive Bal Harbour and the ‘Venice of America’, Fort Lauderdale, with high-end shops and restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard. The affluent Palm Beach area is a haven of beaches, shopping and golf with famous Worth Avenue, the original Rodeo Drive, and fun Delray Beach.

THE EVERGLADES There’s far more to Florida than its golden sands.

Further inland lies an intriguing myriad of swamps and everglades, brimming with native populations of striking American alligators who live and breed in the fresh waters. Able to reach up to 15 feet in length, these toothy giants can be spotted lurking in the murky waters as you explore the Everglades National Park that covers the tip of the Florida Peninsular, skimming across the glassy surface of the water on a flatbottomed airboat.

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MIAMI – HOTELS

THE REDBURY Fusing the old school glamour of Hollywood with the chic coolness of Miami, The Redbury offers a sophisticated touch to South Beach.

The boutique hotel takes its artistic cue from the region’s Art Deco heritage and guests can enjoy great artwork; a large rooftop pool and as the lights go down, this serene area turns into the hottest spot in town.

The hotel boasts some of the largest rooms in town and being away from the beachfront, the price bracket is a little more affordable. The dining scene has become somewhat legendary with Cleo serving inspired Mediterranean cuisine. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, be sure to dine here.

SLS SOUTH BEACH Ultra chic and designed by Philippe Starck, this beachfront property sits idyllically in the heart of South Beach. Perfect for a fun-filled break.

The oceanfront hotel design reflects the sophistication of old French aristocracy while naughty nods such as mirrors on the ceiling and a box marked ‘sinners’ keep things historically accurate. A great quirky and fun element to your holiday.

The vibe is very lively and social with regular pool parties at the weekends, where the young and beautiful descend on the hotel. The dining scene is exciting and fresh with Katsuya restaurant serving incredible sushi. For a hotel that offers luxury, fun and simply a cool chic aura, the SLS South Beach is the ideal choice.

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MIAMI – HOTELS

ST REGIS BAL HARBOUR RESORT Unquestionably the most exclusive address on Miami Beach situated in the island neighbourhood of Bal Harbour, this luxurious hotel offers a contemporary style with a touch of art deco.

The property boasts a plethora of amenities to keep the guests entertained. The two sparkling swimming pools are simply ideal to spend a few hours relaxing with a cocktail in hand, before relocating over to the pristine beach which boasts a plethora of water fun. From watersports, swimming, or simply sun worshipping on the golden sands.

When it comes to dining, St Regis really has it right. There is a choice of fine dining establishments to choose from, serving anything from local to flavours from Europe.

W SOUTH BEACH Chic, glamorous and sexy, discover an oasis of lush garden landscapes and spectacular Atlantic Ocean views.

Offering outstanding accommodation with the signature W amenities and the exceptional Whatever/Whenever® service, soak up the poolside atmosphere at the WET® Bar and Grille and enjoy the best of South Beach, where the region’s hottest clubs and chicest bars sit.

Following an evening of indulgence, the place to cure a sore head is in the Bliss Spa, where qualified therapists soothe away any aches and pains. Other ways to relax are simply wandering the pristine grounds, or lying back and enjoying the sounds of the waves on the beautiful stretch of golden sand beach.

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FORT LAUDERDALE & PALM BEACH – HOTELS

W FORT LAUDERDALE

RITZ CARLTON FORT LAUDERDALE

The Gold Coast’s chicest hotel is set just across from a sensational

This quintessential beachfront property is the epitomé of oceanfront luxury

sandy beach and minutes from the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas

of a bygone era. Sitting beside a wide expanse of pristine white beach,

Boulevard. The stylish Wet area is the place to chill out in the day

this hotel offers stunning rooms some boasting sea views. It embodies an

with two infinity edge pools and a generously sized deck area.

aqueous theme much like a cruiseliner so swap deckchairs for loungers

While away the night at one of the hippest places in town, the hotel’s

and cityscapes for miles of white sand and turquoise seas. Spend your

signature 20-foot bar. W Fort Lauderdale is a young, fun choice with

days enjoying the glorious Floridian sun and as the lights go down, huge

fantastic amenities.

telescopes open up a sky full of stars.

®

THE BREAKERS PALM BEACH

FOUR SEASONS PALM BEACH

Majestic and renowned, this is the quintessential oceanfront Palm

Tucked away in an intimate location on South Palm Beach, this is a real

Beach resort for couples and in particular, families. Decorated in an

hideaway particularly well suited to couples. Offering the high level of

Italian-renaissance style, this resort appeals to all with its impressive

Four Seasons service that is honoured throughout its portfolio of hotels

facilities including two 18 hole golf courses, a multitude of shops and

with well-finished accommodation, sit back and relax poolside with a

restaurants and a dedicated children’s club. With plenty of activities on

cocktail in hand, or take a romantic stroll along the stunning beach. The

offer for the whole family be sure to spend some time relaxing on the

on-site spa also offers an extensive menu of treatments and guests can

beautiful long stretch of beach.

enjoy complementary use of the steam room, sauna and whirlpool.

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FLORIDA

FLORIDA KEYS FLY-DRIVE Take to the highway and follow the US Route 1 from Miami Beach to Florida’s famous string of stunning islands –The Florida Keys. From the underwater haven of Key Largo to lush Islamorada and bustling atmosphere of charming Key West, you’ll discover the very best of island life with this fly-drive holiday.

MIAMI – KEY LARGO (62 miles) Trade the lively cosmopolitan city of Miami for the first of the Keys at the tip of the mainland and take to the water around Key Largo in a glass bottom boat, to tour the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. To get even closer to the colourful marine life, don your snorkel or an air tank and dive the bustling reef and nearby wreck sites.

KEY WEST – ISLAMORADA (81 miles) KEY LARGO – KEY WEST (98 miles)

Retreat to Islamorada en-route back to Miami and explore the six islands

The journey to the keys is like nothing you’ll have experienced in

that make up the area. Culinary aficionados should sample the fresh

the USA. Route 1 connects the islands to the mainland, and to each

seafood served in the beachfront restaurants and cafes and once again,

other. So, this stretch of your drive is lined with sweeping ocean views

the surrounding crystal clear waters and marine inhabitants lay waiting to

stretching out on either side until you reach Key West, at the pinnacle of

be explored.

the island chain.

Islamorada is home to several state parks and for a truly unique Wander past the ‘conch’ houses and tour Ernest Hemingway’s House,

experience, visit the Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge for the unusual

before spending your evenings in lively Duval Street and Mallory Square.

sight of hundreds of miniature deer enjoying the beaches of the Bahia

Escape the bustle of Key West for an afternoon by travelling by boat to

Honda State Park. Sport fishing is a popular activity across this village of

the former prison, Fort Jefferson, at the Dry Tortugas National Park.

islands and the region is easily tailor-made to include utter seclusion to suit honeymooning couples looking for a private slice of paradise.

ISLAMORADA – MIAMI (78 miles)

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FLORIDA KEYS – HOTELS

CASA MARINA, A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT & THE REACH, A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT, KEY WEST These two landmark properties are set within walking distance from the main hustle of the island; both are family friendly and charmingly decorated with a Mediterranean edge.

Spend days enjoying the varied water sports including snorkelling, kayaking and jet-skiing. The Reach offers the only natural beach on the island while Casa Marina is home to the largest private beach.

LITTLE PALM ISLAND LITTLE TORCH KEY

CHEECA LODGE & SPA ISLAMORADA

Isolated and exclusive, this is the ultimate retreat and escape for

Set on 27 acres in Islamorada, the resort welcomes both couples

honeymooners and couples. With only 30 oceanfront suites in thatched

and families to this delightful location in the Keys. Life here can be as

roof bungalows, relax and enjoy privacy as well as the absence of

relaxing as you wish with a private palm-lined beach to chill out on or

telephones or televisions. Take your place on the white sand beach or go

pools, tennis courts, sailing and fishing if you are feeling more active.

for a dip in the lagoon-style pool, before dining at the French-Pan Latin

The dedicated children’s club is a hit, while adults enjoy some R&R in

fusion restaurant.

the Spa.

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FLORIDA

CENTRAL FLORIDA & GULF OF MEXICO BEACHES Synonymous with central Florida, Orlando is the beating heart of the amusement park district, home to global icons from Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse to the wizards of Harry Potter and SeaWorld’s Shamu. When visiting the USA’s sunniest peninsula, combine central Florida with a trip to the state’s western shores, jutting out into the Gulf of Mexico and boasting a lavish portfolio of stunning beaches and lively oceanfront towns.

For water sports fanatics, the beach at Fort Myers will entertain for hours. The wide, gradually sloping beach is the perfect place to try parasailing, waterskiing or sea kayaking before you spend an evening exploring the bustling nightlife and sampling the sumptuous restaurants that line the streets.

The soft white sands and calm, crystal clear waters of the aptly-named Clearwater beach stretch far into the distance and provide the picture-perfect setting for a relaxing day, or week, with which to soak up Florida’s famously golden weather.

Enjoy a round of golf on one of the world-class greens around Naples, before spotting pods of wild bottlenose dolphins from the age-old pier. From here, cross the water to Marco Island, the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Island area for unspoiled beaches and beautiful parks.

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CENTRAL FLORIDA & GULF COAST BEACHES – HOTELS

FOUR SEASONS RESORT ORLANDO AT WALT DISNEY WORLD®

MARCO ISLAND MARRIOTT BEACH RESORT GOLF CLUB & SPA

Opened in late 2014, this is arguably the most luxurious address in

Occupying three miles of beautiful beaches in Marco Island, this is a

Orlando; fantastic facilities, high-end accommodation and dedicated

popular and large full service resort. Water sport enthusiasts can kayak,

service come together in one hotel. Explorer Island is a haven for

jet-ski, sail and water-ski from here, or for a more relaxing holiday lie

children after a day in the parks with a family pool and water slides to

back on the pristine, white sand beach or in one of the two beautiful

cool down in. If that wasn’t enough, there’s even a rock-climbing wall

swimming pools. A visit to the Everglades National Park to see the gators

and dedicated children’s clubs.

and wildlife is a must from the hotel.

HARD ROCK HOTEL AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO®

LOEWS DON CESAR ST PETERSBURG

Popular and fun, this hotel has it all; from dedicated children’s clubs

Known as ‘The Pink Palace’ of St Petersburg Beach, be transported back

to excellent restaurants and a Club Level for a luxurious touch. It is the

in time to the Great Gatsby era at this hotel. Position yourself on a beach

world’s largest Hard Rock and is conveniently located within walking

chair before taking a dip in the sparkling oceanfront pools. Families in

distance of the City Walk Entertainment Complex, a perfect place to

particular love this hotel with its children’s camp and ice cream parlour

while away an afternoon or evening. The outdoor pool is the place to

serving delightful refreshments. This is a great fun filled choice for the

be with underwater speakers, Jacuzzis, fountains and a 240 foot slide.

whole family to enjoy a beach break.

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HAWAII

THE ALOHA STATE REFERS NOT ONLY TO A STRIKING GATHERING OF VOLCANIC ISLANDS, BUT TO A BEAUTIFUL STATE OF MIND. KICK BACK ON THE BEACH FOR A LUAU, TAKE ON THE NORTH PACIFIC SWELL WITH A SURF BOARD, CLAMBER ALONG HIKING TRAILS ACROSS ACTIVE KILAUEA OR STRAP ON AN AIR TANK TO SCUBA HAWAII’S BUSTLING CORAL REEFS – WE GUARANTEE YOU’LL FIND A SLICE OF PARADISE.

HAWAII Aloha Hawaii! Discover paradise on these exotic islands. Relax on sugary beaches and drink a cocktail out of a coconut. Pull on your floral leis, listen to the dulcet tones of the ukulele and lose yourself in the laid back Hawaiian culture.

Experience the traditional Hawaii at a Luau for hula and fire dancers, or escape to luxury on the island of Lanai.

Whatever your idea of paradise, you’ll find it here.

HAWAII OR THE BIG ISLAND Never forget that Hawaii is intensely volcanic. Seek out your thrills at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the active Kilauea volcano. The park has been named a world heritage site and has some fantastic attractions, such as Kilauea Overlook, Jaggar Museum, Halemaumau Crater, Devastation Trail and the Thurston Lava Tube.

Find National Parks and many beaches on the largest island, Big Island. As the first island settled by the Polynesian explorers, there’s lots of history. You can visit the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park with its native temple ruins and petroglyphs, the monument in memory of Captain Cook’s death and the church in Historic Kailua Village.

OAHU Oahu has earned its title as ‘the gathering place’, with nearly three-quarters of Hawaii’s residents living on the capital’s island. The capital, Honolulu, has a city life that reminds visitors that Hawaii is the 51st state of the US. There are many sights to see, including the only royal palace in the USA, Iolani Palace and Pearl Harbour. You can catch the famous Hawaiian surf at Waikiki, then scuba with the tropical fishes.

MAUI Maui is romantic with stunning beach landscapes.

Hike through the palm forests and watch the sun set over the glittering Pacific Ocean. Maui’s luxurious resorts will make you feel like a god or goddess with lots of pampering and five-star service.

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HAWAII

KAUAI Spend a day exploring the stunning scenery of the ‘Garden Isle’. You’ll fall in love with the rainforests and superb coastline. Explore the Na Pali Coast on a boat or on a hiking excursion. Relax along the eastern coast, known as the ‘Coconut Coast’, with its beautiful beaches, waterfalls of Opaekaa, the Fern Grotto and the sleeping giant mountain.

ISLAND HOPPING AROUND HAWAII With local flights between the islands making travel easy, there’s no reason to visit just one of the islands. And you don’t have to stay in Hawaii either. There are regular flights between Hawaii and the US mainland.

LOS ANGELES & HAWAII Flying to Hawaii from London requires two separate flights. One to LA from London, then a flight from LA to Hawaii. Why not have a break between flights in the City of Angels. Spend time in the city exploring Beverly Hills or Hollywood before taking your next flight into Hawaii where you can relax in paradise. It’s a great city and beach combination with plenty of surfing and outdoor activities.

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HAWAII – HOTELS

ANDAZ MAUI Located on a pristine stretch of white sand beach on the island of Oahu, this luxury resort exudes elegance and a true Hawaiian spirit.

The crescent shaped bay of Wailea is the home to Andaz Maui and guests can enjoy long lazy days basking in the sun before admiring the mesmerising hues of the spectacular sunset. The 290 rooms, suites and villas are a welcoming space featuring traditional lanais to admire the views out to sea or over the tropical grounds of the resort plus luxury bath products, large baths and rain showers.

The resort features a range of amenities to keep guests entertained so expect a relaxing spa centre complete with fully qualified and experience therapists, a large pool plus a range of beach activities including kayaking, beach yoga and even surfing.

FOUR SEASONS HUALALAI Set on the northern coast of Hawaii, this large and luxurious resort, where views extend out over the sea, offers a quintessential Hawaiian holiday.

The FourSeasons has really captured the outdoors living ethos of the island and therefore guests can enjoy a range of experiences from golf to enjoying a dip in the natural swimming pool. Carved out of the rock and featuring more than 4,000 tropical fish, this is the most interesting resort swimming pool around. There is a range of dining options too offering anything from sushi to BBQ beach favourites.

The resort offers 243 rooms and suites all embodying a traditional Hawaiian theme. Expect intimate two-storey bungalows showcasing native Hawaiian art, elegant bathrooms and spacious living areas.

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HAWAII – HOTELS

KAHALA RESORT Located on the popular Hawaiian island of Oahu, this plush resort has become a firm favourite among celebrities and visiting royalty.

Its beachside presence offers guests the quintessential relaxing beach break, but with the bright lights and buzzing atmosphere of Waikiki Beach and Strip just moments away, it is ideally placed to indulge in the hedonistic pleasures of this Pacific Island.The resort boasts 338 rooms and suites, each with fantastic views across the Pacific or scenic views over the resort and town.

The rooms are spacious and feature a range of amenities including fluffy bathrobes, luxury bath products and complimentary WiFi. Around the resort guests are treated to a free shuttle to the shopping district, a fully equipped health club with spa plus a range of dining options.

THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN

WAILEA

This historic hotel set in the heart of Waikiki Beach has set the standards

This hotel has been dubbed the most intimate resort on Oahu and with

for luxury in Honolulu. The hotel is ideally placed within walking

views extending out across the Pacific encapsulating three different

distance to the shopping and restaurant district. Each of the rooms offers

islands and plush accommodation spread out over 15 acres, it’s not hard

magnificent views out across the beach, and depending on which wing

to see why. The resort boasts just 72 individual suites in Wailea Bay,

you choose, expect traditional Hawaiian dark wood detailing or fun

offering an exclusive and decadent stay. Each of the suites is designed

beach house styling. It has a multitude of activities on offer for all guests

to embody the essence of a beach hut, but with the luxury of a five-star

including children so expect surf lessons, a dedicated spa, a children’s

hotel powering it. Expect breezy white linens, dark wood – taken from

club, a plethora of restaurants plus a private swimming pool.

Hawaii’s Big Island – and sweeping views across the bay and out to sea.

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BOOKING CONDITIONS These Booking Conditions form the basis of your contract with Western & Oriental, a brand of ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited of Concorde House, Canal Street, Chester, UK. CH1 4EJ company registration number 8687765 (“the Company”, “we”, “us” and “our”). 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. In these Booking Conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date) or any of them as the context requires. Please note that the booking of villas, cruises and yachts is governed by separate Booking Conditions and will be supplied at the time of booking or on request. The Booking Conditions describe your obligations to the Company and the obligations of the Company to you. Please read them carefully.

1. YOUR RESERVATION To make your reservation, please call us and one of our expert Travel Specialists will provide you with first hand information on your chosen destination. You must then confirm your booking, either: • By telephone - your Travel Specialist will reiterate all aspects of your itinerary, ask you to provide details* from the passports of each person travelling and confirm that you have read and agreed to our Booking Conditions. You will then be asked for payment of the required deposit or full payment if booking after balance due date. You can pay by cheque, debit/credit/ charge**card or by bank transfer (details on request). You will be required to complete our online agreement, so that we can check that all of your details and requirements are accurate.

Incorrect information supplied will be subject to amendment charges as stated in Clause 6 (1). A contract between us will come into existence when we despatch our confirmation invoice to you to confirm your booking.

• By using our online agreement system, please follow the instructions on the screen and complete the required fields.

We would refer you to our Privacy Policy and Terms of use of the site. You will be asked to accept that you have read and agree to these Booking Conditions before submitting your itinerary to us. We will then confirm receipt by email. You will then be asked for payment of the required deposit or full payment if the booking is made after balance due date. Receipt of the applicable payment within the stipulated timescale will bring a contract between us into existence. We will then issue and send you a confirmation invoice. For all bookings where only a deposit is paid at the time of booking, the remaining balance must be received by us 90 days prior to departure, unless otherwise stated. Non-payment or late payment of your outstanding balance may result in your booking being treated as cancelled by you, in which case, the cancellation charges set out in Clause 6 will be incurred. Contact us immediately if any information which appears on the confirmation invoice or any other document appears to be incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracies (for which we are responsible) in any document within ten days of our sending it out (five days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so. If you book through one of our authorised travel agents, please note that all monies paid to your travel agent for a holiday which does not include any flights are at all times held by the travel agent on behalf of the Company.

For flight inclusive bookings, all monies paid to any authorised travel agent of ours for your holiday with us will be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust subject to the travel agent’s obligation to pay such monies to us in accordance with our trading terms unless we fail. In the unlikely event of our financial failure, all monies then held by the travel agent or subsequently paid by you to the travel agent will be held by the agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation on the agent to pay such monies to us.

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*Information required prior to flight check-in for some destinations. **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.

2. PRICE POLICY We reserve the right to vary the price of unsold arrangements and to correct any errors of which we become aware at any time.

Please check the up to date price when booking. You will be advised of the applicable price before your booking is confirmed.

Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking, then subject to the correction of errors, we will only increase or decrease the price in the following circumstances. Price increases or decreases after booking will be passed on by way of a surcharge or refund. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be payable, subject to the conditions set out in this clause, in the event of any change in our transportation costs including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes, embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked.

Even in the above cases, only if the amount of any increase in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of your holiday (excluding any amendment charges) will we levy a surcharge. If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost of your holiday (excluding insurance premiums and any amendment charges), you will be entitled to cancel your booking and receive a full refund of all monies you have paid to us (except for any amendment charges) or alternatively purchase another holiday from us as referred to in Clause 7 “Alterations and Cancellations by the Company”.

Although insurance (where purchased through us) does not form part of your contract with us or of any “package”, we will consider an appropriate refund of any insurance premiums you have paid us if you can show you are unable to use/reuse or transfer your policy in the event of cancellation or purchase of an alternative holiday.

Where applicable you have 14 days from the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to choose option b) or c) as set out in Clause 7 below. If you do not tell us that you wish to choose either of these options within this period of time, we are entitled to assume that you do not wish to do so and will pay the surcharge. Any surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the holiday or within 14 days of the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the later.

Please note that arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your holiday due to contractual and other protection in place.

A refund will only be payable if the decrease in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of your holiday as set out above. Where a refund is due, we will pay you the full amount of the decrease in our costs.

We promise not to levy a surcharge within 30 days of departure.

No refund will be payable during this period either.

3. INSURANCE 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. We do not check alternative insurance policies.

4. BROCHURE & WEBSITE ACCURACY The descriptions in our brochures and on our websites may be prepared many months in advance but is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. The availability of services and amenities may be affected by local conditions, such as inclement weather or the season. Suppliers of accommodation, transport and recreational facilities can make changes with no advance notice to us. When we become aware of any significant changes, we will advise you or your travel agent

at the time of booking or, if after booking, as soon as possible before departure. The provisions of Clause 7 will apply when a significant change is notified after the booking.

5. PROVISION OF TRANSPORT & ACCOMMODATION The various carriers who provide transport as described in our brochure and on our website have their own terms and conditions. International and sometimes national travel is subject to international conventions and regulations (such as EU regulations). The carriers’ terms and conditions may limit and/ or exclude the supplier’s liability to you, usually in accordance with applicable international conventions or regulations. For more information on these, see Clause 10(ii)f). Air travel is also subject to the operational decisions of air carriers and of airports, which may result in delays, aircraft being diverted or schedule changes over which the Company has no control. The Company can provide you with copies of all relevant conventions, regulations and conditions upon request. In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) (including any connecting flight or transfer) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we will inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. Due to the flexible itineraries that we offer, we are not in a position to state these facts in our brochure and on our website. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Due to the nature of the airline business, on rare occasions flight delays regrettably do happen. In such an event, while we will work with the airline to ensure any delay is as short and comfortable as possible, it remains the airline’s responsibility to look after you. Depending on the length and cause of the delay, meals and accommodation and/or compensation may be available. See Airline Delays and Passenger Rights. Our brochure and website detail our sole responsibility. They are not published on behalf of and do not commit any independent organisations/ carriers whose services are featured in it.

6. ALTERATIONS & CANCELLATIONS BY YOU (i) Should you wish to make any changes to your confirmed booking, you must notify us in writing as soon as possible.

Whilst we will endeavour to assist, we cannot guarantee we will be able to meet any such requests. Where we can, an amendment fee of £25 per booking, or £50 per booking if the amendment is made within 46 days of departure, will be payable together with any costs incurred by ourselves and any costs or charges incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers. A change of holiday dates will normally be treated as a cancellation of the original booking and rebooking in which case cancellation charges will apply. Changes may result in the recalculation of the holiday price where, for example, the basis on which the price of the original holiday was calculated has changed.

If any member of your party is prevented from travelling, the person(s) concerned may transfer their place to someone else (introduced by you) providing we are notified not less than two weeks before departure. Where a transfer to a person of your choice can be made, all costs and charges incurred by us and/or incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers as a result together with an amendment fee of £100.00 must be paid before the transfer can be effected. Any overdue balance payment must also be received. For flight inclusive bookings, you must pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most airlines do not permit name changes after tickets have been issued for any reason, these charges are likely to be the full cost of the flight. (ii) Should you or any member of your party need to cancel your holiday, the lead person who made the booking and/ or signed the Booking Form must immediately advise us in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only be effective when it is received by us in writing. As we incur costs from the time we accept your booking the following cancellation charges will be payable. Where the cancellation charge is shown as a percentage, this is calculated on the basis of the total invoice

cost payable excluding amendment charges, which are not refundable. Please note that when part cancellations occur, the amount payable by the rest of the party may increase.

PERIOD BEFORE DEPARTURE CANCELLATION FEE PER PERSON OVER 56 DAYS LOSS OF DEPOSIT*** 55 - 43 DAYS 50% OF HOLIDAY PRICE 42 - 31 DAYS 75% OF HOLIDAY PRICE 30 DAYS or less 100% OF HOLIDAY PRICE *** Bookings on some airlines and hotels during the peak season will have varying cancellation charges and, therefore, the fees shown above will not apply. The charges will be calculated and advised to you at the time of cancellation.

7. ALTERATIONS & CANCELLATIONS BY THE COMPANY Occasionally, we have to make changes to and correct any errors in brochures, websites, and other material published by us, both before and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings. We must reserve the right to do so.

However, we will not cancel your holiday unless you fail to make full payment on time, we are forced to do so as a result of circumstances outside our control we are forced to do so as a result of circumstances outside our control or minimum numbers apply. Most changes we have to make are minor. Sometimes, we have to make a ‘significant change’. Significant changes include the following when made before departure: • A change of accommodation to that of a lower price or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you are away • A change of accommodation area for the whole or a major part of the time you are away • A change of departure time of any transport which forms part of your holiday arrangements by more than 12 hours • A change of the overall length of the holiday by more than 12 hours • A change of the UK departure airport to one that is inconvenient for you. If we become aware of a significant change or we have to cancel the booking before departure, you or your travel agent will be notified as soon as is practically possible. You will then be offered the following options of: a) Accepting the changed arrangements as notified to you, or b) purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar standard to that originally booked if available. We will offer you at least one alternative holiday of equivalent or higher standard for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the price of the original holiday. If this holiday is in fact cheaper than the original one, we will refund the price difference. If you do not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer you, you may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean your paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is cheaper, or c) Cancelling your holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies you have paid to us.

In addition, if we have to cancel or make a significant change after the date you are obliged to pay the balance of your holiday cost, we will pay you compensation as set out below, subject to the following exceptions: Compensation will not be payable and no liability, beyond offering the above mentioned choices where applicable, can be accepted where (1) we are forced to cancel or make a change as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care or (2) we have to cancel because the minimum number of bookings necessary for us to operate the holiday has not been reached (see above).

No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or where a change is a minor one.

A minor change is any change which is not significant. For touring holidays, it may be necessary to make changes to the accommodation, routing or order of the itinerary. Unless the holiday is significantly altered as a result, any such change will not be treated as a significant change. Very rarely, we may be forced by “force majeure” (see Clause 8) to change or terminate your holiday after departure but before the scheduled end of your time away. This is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result.

Compensation Payable as set out above: Days Before Departure Compensation per person 57 or more Nil 56 to 29 £40 28 to 15 £50 14 to 0 £70 EVENT CANCELLATION: Occasionally, advertised events are cancelled by the organisers and often at short notice. Such cancellation will not constitute a significant change to, or the cancellation of, your holiday arrangements even though we have pre-booked tickets for you.

8. FORCE MAJEURE Except where otherwise expressly stated in these Booking Conditions, we regret we cannot accept any liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of “force majeure”. In these Booking Conditions, “force majeure” means any event that we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include but are not limited to (and whether actual or threatened) war, riot, civil disobedience or strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural disaster, adverse weather conditions, adverse flooding, fire, unavoidable technical problems with transport and all similar events outside our control.

Advice from the Foreign Office against all travel or all but essential travel to a particular country or area will generally be regarded as ‘force majeure’.

FCO travel advice appears on their website. www.fco.gov.uk/ knowbeforeyougo which you are recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure.

9. SPECIAL REQUESTS Any special request must be advised in writing well in advance of departure if it was not already stated on your original booking form or at the time of booking. We will make every reasonable effort to make the arrangements. We do not however, have any legal liability to you in the event that we or a third party is unable to comply with your special requests. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability. For your own protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing that a special request will be complied (where it is possible to give this) where it is important to you. You will not be entitled to cancel (without paying our normal cancellation charges) if we are unable to comply with your special request. We regret that we cannot accept any conditional booking (i.e. any booking that is specified to be conditional upon the fulfilment of a particular request).

10. LIABILITY (i) You to the Company: (a) It is your responsibility to arrive at places stated at the correct times and to reconfirm your return flight and departure times.

The Company has no liability whatsoever to you for your failure to do so. (b) You must act and behave in a reasonable and responsible manner toward any other person you meet in the course of your travel arrangements. If in our reasonable opinion or in the reasonable opinion of any other person in authority, you behave in such a way as to cause or be likely to cause danger, upset or distress to any third party or damage to property, we are entitled, without prior notice, to terminate the holiday of the person(s) concerned. In this situation, the person(s) concerned will be required to leave the accommodation or other service. We will have no further responsibility toward such person(s) including any return travel arrangements. No

refunds will be made and we will not pay any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination. (c) You accept responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you. Full payment for any such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely known) must be made direct to the accommodation owner or manager or other supplier or to us as soon as possible. If the actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds the amount paid where estimated, you must pay the difference once known. If the actual cost is less than the amount paid, the difference will be refunded. You will also be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us and all costs incurred by us (including our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions. You should ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect you if this situation arises. (ii) The Company to You: a) We promise to make sure that the holiday arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted holiday arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers). b) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (including loss of enjoyment or possessions), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following:- the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or ‘force majeure’ as defined in Clause 8 above c) Please note we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised by us and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract and any excursion you purchase in resort. Please also see Clause 11. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you. d) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract - and the laws and regulations of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred - will be used as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature which might lead a reasonable holiday maker to refuse to take the holiday in question. Please note, however, our obligation is to exercise reasonable skill and care as referred to in clause 10(ii)a).

We do not make any representation or commitment that all services will comply with applicable local laws and regulations and failure to comply does not automatically mean we have not exercised reasonable skill and care. e) As set out in these booking conditions, we limit the maximum amount we may have to pay you for any claims you may make against us. Where we are found liable for loss of and/ or damage to any luggage or personal possessions (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is

£250 per person affected unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under Clause 10(ii)f) below. You must ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect your personal belongings.

For all other claims which do not involve death or personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice the price (excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under Clause 10(ii)f) below.

This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you have not received any benefit at all from your holiday. f) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea or rail carrier to which any international convention or EU regulation applies, the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation which applies to the travel arrangements in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea (as amended by the 2002 Protocol with effect from 31st December 2012) and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail).

Please note: where a carrier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier for the complaint or claim in question. Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request. g) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any business losses.

11. EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES We may provide you with information (before departure and/ or when you are on holiday) about activities and excursions which are available in the area you are visiting. We have no involvement in any such activities or excursions which are neither run, supervised, controlled nor endorsed in any way by us. They are provided by local operators or other third parties who are entirely independent of us. They do not form any part of your contract with us even where we suggest particular operators/ other third parties and/or assist you in booking such activities or excursions in any way. We cannot accept any liability on any basis in relation to such activities or excursions and the acceptance of liability contained in Clause 10(ii)a) will not apply to them. We do not however exclude liability for the negligence of ourselves or our employees resulting in your death or personal injury. We cannot guarantee accuracy at all times of information given in relation to such activities or excursions or about the area you are visiting generally or that any particular excursion or activity which does not form part of our contract will take place as these services are not under our control.

12. DATA PROTECTION In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements, we *(and your travel agent) need to use the information you provide such as name, address, personal information including any special needs/dietary requirements, etc. We take appropriate technical and organisational measures which are intended to

prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal data.

We are required to pass the information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels and transport companies. The information may be required by and provided to security or credit checking companies, public authorities such as Customs, Border Control and Immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Your personal data may be stored, used and otherwise processed within the UK and/or any other country(ies) of the European Economic Area (EEA). EEA countries are all member states of the European Union together with Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. We may also store, use or otherwise process personal data outside the EEA. Data protection laws may not be as strong outside the EEA as they are in the EEA. Personal data will not be transferred to a country outside the EEA unless (1) the country to which it is transferred is one which the European Commission considers to provide an adequate level of data protection or (2) the personal data is transferred to a United States company which has signed up to the Safe Harbour scheme or (3) the personal data is transferred to a company which is required by our contract with them only to deal with the data in accordance with our instructions and to maintain appropriate security to protect the personal data which we are satisfied they have or (4) We are obliged to provide the personal data to a government /public authority in order to provide your holiday. We will not, however, pass any information onto any person who is not responsible for part of your travel arrangements or as we are legally obliged to do. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, (whether in the EEA or not), we cannot confirm your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons. If you have booked using our online system, please ensure that you have read our Privacy Policy. *Please note that where information is also held by your travel agent, this is subject to their own data protection policy. Your data controller is International Travel Connections Limited.

You are generally entitled to ask us (by letter or e-mail) what details of yours are being held or processed, for what purpose and to whom they may be or have been disclosed.

We will charge a fee to respond to such a request. We promise to respond to your request within 40 days of receiving your written request and fee. In certain limited circumstances we are entitled to refuse your request. If you believe that any of your personal data which we are processing are inaccurate or incorrect please contact us immediately by email marketing@ westernoriental.com 13. COMPLAINTS & 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 telephone please telephone us on Tel +44(0) 20 7666 1234 or E-mail enquiries@westernoriental.com Any costs incurred in doing so will be fully refunded.

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.

Call us on 020 7666 1269 | www.westernoriental.com

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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.

14. 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 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. *The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk

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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).

and may well vary from those on your confirmation invoice.

Should you fail to check-in on time and you miss your flight, we do not have any liability to you.

16. ESSENTIAL INFORMATION We fully recognise that the choices you can make concerning your chosen accommodation, the destinations you wish to visit and your airline carrier are vast. Our specialist team is able to provide helpful information including flight details, car hire and basic costs for all accommodation. Once you have decided on a preferred itinerary, simply contact one of our Travel Specialists for advice and a full holiday recommendation by telephoning the number shown in the brochure or on our website. As we have first hand intimate knowledge of the destinations we feature, we will of course be pleased to discuss and advise you on the most appropriate holiday that meets your requirements.

Please note: 1. All tickets issued in conjunction with our holiday packages are non-changeable and non-refundable. For restrictions on preseating requests, please see ‘pre-seating on aircraft’.

2. Special meal requirements must be made at the time of booking 3. Full details of any disability or medical condition which may affect your holiday arrangements and any related special requirements must be disclosed to the Travel Specialist at the time of booking. These details must be confirmed in writing.

We will endeavour to accommodate any special requirements, with the airline and service providers.

4. Tickets (a) if paper tickets are issued these will need to be taken to the airport of departure and handed in at the check-in desk. (b) if the airline operates an e ticket system you will not be issued with paper tickets with the travel documents but you will be issued with a letter of confirmation of the flight booking which should be handed in at the check-in desk.

5. Certain airlines operate an on-line check-in prior to departure.

If you wish to utilise this method we cannot be responsible for any errors or changes in seating arrangements.

WHAT YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 1. Air travel as booked and detailed in our confirmation of your booking 2. Accommodation as booked and detailed in our confirmation of your booking.

3. Meals, as shown in the hotel description and on your confirmation. “Breakfast” usually means continental breakfast, unless stated otherwise. “Half board” is breakfast and evening meal, which is generally with a restricted choice of menu or restaurant. “Full board” is breakfast, lunch and dinner. “Allinclusive” is breakfast, lunch, and dinner with house wine, snacks, unlimited bar drinks (excluding champagne and some premium brands) served by the glass.

4. Return transfers from airport to hotel/resort unless stated at the time of booking. At destinations where transfers are provided by the hotel, you may be transferred along with other hotel guests arriving on the same flight.

5. Services of a representative in most of our featured destinations.

6. Mandatory hotel taxes and service charges.

7. United Kingdom departure tax and passenger service charge (for all international departures). Children under 2 years of age, who have not been allocated seats, are exempt from this tax.

8. Luggage allowance as determined by the carrier, the amount will be detailed in the travel documents.

9. Special offers that are available at the time of booking.

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.

WHAT YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE EXCLUDES 1. Some overseas airport departure taxes (generally £15 - £30 per person, per island/country, payable locally In the local currency or US$). Also cruising tax (as applicable) between US$2 and US$4 per person, per day is payable locally.

2. Travel Insurance, which you must have in force prior to your departure 3. Charges made by the hotel in respect of infant’s requirements and baby sitting.

4. The services of representatives at the destinations where there are no local representatives.

5. Items of a personal nature - drinks, laundry, room service, telephone calls, etc. and any tax payable on these.

6. Visa and passport charges. (unless stated) 7. Cost of inoculations or other medical requirements of the country of your destination or compulsory or non compulsory medication.

8. Gratuities where service charges are not mandatory.

9. Any applicable surcharges - see Price Policy (Clause 2 of our Booking Conditions).

10. 2% charge for payments made by credit or charge card.

11. Tourist Tax in some destinations.

12. Excess baggage charges on aircraft and ground transport.

13. Local charges.

14. Charges for equipment for leisure activities or for excursions.

15. Excess fuel surcharges.

16. Any items not expressly included in the cost of your holiday.

15. LAW & 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

TICKETS AND OTHER DOCUMENTATION Approximately 14 days prior to departure, providing we have received full payment, you will be sent your travel documentation.

Remember that you must check-in at least 2 to 3 hours before take-off for most flights (depending on the airline). Please also ensure to check the correct airport terminal for departure. As the airline allocates seats on a first-come first served basis, we advise you to check-in as early as possible so that, if you are travelling in a party, you are less likely to be separated. Please check your flight times carefully on your ticket as these are subject to change

Please check your invoice, tickets and all other documentation carefully as soon as you receive them. Contact us immediately if any information appears to be incorrect or missing as it may not be possible to make changes later.

ADVANCE PASSENGER INFORMATION & APIS UK and overseas governments require all passengers travelling by air to provide certain personal information known as Advance Passenger Information or API this means your passport/ identity card details and in some instances, your contact and other information, are provided to the authorities before you travel.

Some governments also require airlines to provide them with direct access to airline passenger bookings, which may contain other passenger data. It is important that the information provided is accurate so you pass through Immigration on arrival without delay. You must provide this information when requested to do so which may be in advance of travel.

PASSPORT & VISAS Each passenger including children are required to hold their own full and valid passport for visits to all the destinations that we feature. Most non-eu countries require that passports are valid for at least six months after the departure from their country. Please visit www.fco.gov.uk/travel for the individual country‘s passport and visa requirements for British citizens with a British passport or contact us for further details. A full British passport presently takes approximately 2 to 6 weeks to obtain or renew. If you are 16 or over and haven‘t yet got a passport, you should apply for one at least 6 weeks before your holiday. The UK Passport Service has to confirm your identity before issuing your first passport and will ask you to attend an interview in order to do this. All information we provide in respect of visa or passport requirements is given in good faith and as known at the time it is provided. However, requirements may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure. For countries requiring visas, there should be at least one blank page in the passport to facilitate the visa stamp. Please note that some countries may require two blank pages for entry and departure visas.

If you, or any member of your party, do not hold a British citizen’s passport and/or do not reside in the UK, you must check the entry requirements with the embassy of the country/ies you will be visiting. Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.

Subject to compliance with the applicable conditions, we can issue an electronic travel authority for entry to Australia (ETA). Please advise us at the time of booking if you require assistance.

Travel to and via the USA Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) and Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) In order to enter the USA, every person travelling (including children) must have a visa unless they qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Most British citizens residing in the UK will qualify for the VWP (which covers visits of up to 90 days) but please see the important note

below. All visitors to the US (including children) who are eligible for the VWP must apply for authorisation to travel to the US in advance in accordance with the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). You must complete an online application for authorization to travel on the ESTA website (details below) at least 72 hours before your flight to the US departs but you are recommended to apply earlier. Providing the application is accepted, you will be provided with approval via the website.

Approval is usually provided very quickly but can take up to 72 hours if data needs to be checked. You should make a note of the ESTA approval number when you receive it. There is currently a US$14 per person fee payable when you apply for your authorisation to travel. The ESTA is valid for two years and can be applied for at any time. It is very important that you complete your ESTA application using the exact address as displayed on the documentation you receive. If you have booked a flight only or the address of your accommodation is confirmed on arrival, please use the address as stated on your holiday invoice/tickets.

It’s recommended that the ESTA is applied for as soon as you have booked your holiday. Important note: Not all British visitors to the USA will qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. You will need to apply for a visa if you have ever been arrested (even if you were not convicted of an offence) or have a criminal record of any description. Other exemptions also apply. If you are in any doubt as to whether you may require a visa, please contact the US Embassy, Consular Information Unit, 24 Grosvenor Square, London W1A 1AE or visit the website www.usembassy.org.uk or contact them on 020 7499 9000 before making your booking with us. Visa requirements may change. Further information on entry requirements for the USA are available at http://travel. state.gov. You must also check entry requirements at the time of booking and in good time before departure as requirements may change.

17. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS You must ensure you are aware of and comply with any health requirements, recommendations and precautions such as vaccinations for every country you are or may be visiting.

Requirements and advice may change and it is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Details are available from your GP surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and Centre www.nathnac.org.

Information on health abroad is also available on www.nhs.uk/ Livewell/Travelhealth For travel to Europe, we strongly recommend that you obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for which you can apply online at www.ehic.org.uk free of charge. For details of the cover provided by an EHIC go to www.dh.gov.uk/travellers. Please note that the EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance and may not cover the total cost of health cover. It does not cover the cost of repatriation to the UK if required for medical reasons. You must have adequate insurance cover for all medical costs which will not be covered by the EHIC or you will be personally responsible for payment of these to the hospital/medical practitioner. Payment may be required at the time of departure from the hospital or at the time of receiving treatment. If you have a pre-existing or current medical condition of any kind or if you are pregnant, then you must get clearance to travel from your own doctor. Please also check the terms of your travel insurance policy. Pregnant ladies are not accepted by most airlines after 28 weeks of pregnancy.

IMPORTANT: It is your responsibility to ensure that you hold the correct, valid documents for the country/ies you are visiting and have obtained and have proof of any compulsory vaccinations.

You should also carry written confirmation of any medication requirements you may have. Further, we cannot accept responsibility if you are refused passage on any airline or other transport or entry into any country due to the failure on your part to carry the correct documentation. If failure to do so results in fines, surcharges, claims, financial demands or other financial penalties, costs or expenses being imposed on or incurred by us, you will be responsible for indemnifying and reimbursing us accordingly.

18. LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE Allowances vary according to the carrier, destination, route and the class of travel booked. You will be advised of the specific allowances and restrictions with your travel documentation.

Should you require these at the time of booking, please ask your Travel Specialist.

Please note: 1. Many airlines restrict the weight, size, dimensions and contents of hand luggage. For further details please check with the airline you are flying with.

2. The airline may impose a charge payable by you at the check-in or refuse to allow the luggage to be checked-in until the weight and dimensions are within the prescribed limits if your luggage is over the prescribed allowance. We will not be responsible for any such charges or be liable for the cost of any items which you are unable to check-in and are left at the airport.

3. There are restrictions on the contents of hand luggage to be taken on board an aircraft. You are advised to visit www. direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/ AirtravelintheUK/DG_078179 to check the applicable requirements or restrictions before departure.

19. AIRLINE DELAYS & PASSENGER RIGHTS If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline, depending on the circumstances, the airline may be required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your flight and/or provide you with accommodation and/or refreshments under EC Regulation No 261/2004 - the Denied Boarding Regulations 2004. Full details of these rights are posted at EU airports and are also available from airlines/ airline websites or visit www.caa.co.uk.

Please note that any compensation or other payment due to you is the responsibility of the airline and will not automatically entitle you to a refund from us. All sums you receive or are entitled to receive from the airline concerned by virtue of these Regulations represent the full amount of your entitlement to compensation or any other payment arising from such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding. This includes any disappointment, distress, inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements the fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other arrangements even where those arrangements have been made in conjunction with your flight. If, for any reason, we make any payment to you or a third party which the airline is responsible for in accordance with the Denied Boarding Regulations, you must, when requested, assign to us the rights you have or had to claim the payment in question from the airline. If your airline does not comply with these rules you may complain to the Civil Aviation Authority on 020 7453 6888 or by e-mail to passengercomplaints@caa.co.uk or see www.caa. co.uk – Referring Your Complaint to the CAA . Please check your travel insurance policy for compensation following airline delays.

Where long flight delays result in lost holiday time, refunds are not given by suppliers for unused accommodation as rooms are held for delayed arrivals and are not re-let. Please also note that an airline carrier may, if circumstances so require, divert, postpone or delay any flight, or alter the airport of departure or arrival and may, without notice, substitute alternative carriers or aircraft.

We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm the flight timings which will be used in connection with your flight.

The flight timings shown in our brochure, on our website and/ or detailed on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are outside our control. They are set by airlines and are subject to various factors including air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions, potential technical problems and the ability of passengers to check in on time. The latest known flight times will be those shown on your tickets or confirmation of the flight booking, which will be despatched to you approximately two weeks before departure. You must, accordingly, check your tickets very carefully immediately upon receipt to ensure that you have the correct flight times. It is possible that the flight times may be changed even after tickets have been despatched; we will contact you as soon as possible if this happens.

20. BANNED AIR CARRIERS In accordance with EU Regulation No 2111/2005, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community list” which contains details of air carriers who are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The Community list is available for inspection at http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_ en.htm We are also required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we will inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed

will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative the provisions of clause 7 of our Booking Conditions “Alterations and cancellations by the Company” will apply.

21. NON PACKAGES Some of the holiday arrangements we sell are not “packages” in accordance with the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992. For these arrangements, the acceptance of liability set out in Clause 10(ii)a) of our Booking Conditions will not apply. Instead, we will use reasonable skill and care in the performance of any services which we or any of employees provide subject to and in accordance with the other terms of the Booking Conditions. For services which are provided by third parties such as hoteliers and transport companies, we will use our reasonable skill and care in selecting reputable suppliers.

22. PRE-SEATING ON AIRCRAFT Pre-seating can be arranged on most international carriers.

However, the seating available will be limited and once this limit is reached, airlines will only allocate seats at check-in and this cannot be overridden. Pre-assigned seats cannot be guaranteed as airlines do not undertake to provide any particular seat in the aircraft. Therefore, you agree to accept any seat that may be allocated on the flight in the class for which the ticket has been issued. Certain airlines now operate a voluntary online system to book your seats in advance, please see your travel documentation to see if this is available. Depending on your airline, you may be able to check-in online in advance.

Please note: 1. Bassinettes for babies must be booked at the time of booking and are on a first come first served basis. Due to airline availability bassinettes cannot be guaranteed.

2. If you have any special seating, dietary or other requirements as a result of any disability, reduced mobility or medical condition, please advise us at the time of booking or as soon as you are able if you are not in a position to do so when booking. We will pass such information to the airline concerned but cannot guarantee that they will be met.

23. INTER-ISLAND & OVERSEAS INTERNAL FLIGHTS Please note that on aircraft used for flights between islands extra luggage restrictions will apply. We will try and ensure that special requirements relating to disability or mobility needs can be accommodated but this cannot be guaranteed.

24. SAFETY STANDARDS Safety standards and rules are set by each country. These may not be equivalent to those of the UK and, in some cases, could be lower. This includes activities, public transport, taxis, theme parks and other recreational facilities. Many hotels do not have lifeguards on duty at the swimming pool and some may have signs indicating that swimming is at your own risk. Please act responsibly, particularly with children, as the depth and design of hotel pools vary. We suggest that, in all cases, you familiarize yourself with each pool, particularly prior to diving or allowing any children travelling with you to swim. When properties provide cots for infants, you must check you are happy with the standard and safety prior to use. Caution should be exercised with regard to some room facilities (such as tea and coffee making machines, Jacuzzi baths, etc). Parents should ensure that the standards for childcare and the facilities of the children’s clubs meet their requirements. Further information is available on request.

process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in your condition, disability or mobility occurs. You must also promptly advise us if any such condition, disability or reduced mobility which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. We are not a specialist disabled holiday company, but we will do our best to cater for any special requirements you may have. We will make every effort to recommend the most suitable holiday for you as we do have a specialist department who will be able to provide information to you. For further information, call us to discuss your holiday requirements. Within the EU, airlines will facilitate access to air transport for disabled persons and persons of reduced mobility and ensure they receive assistance when travelling by air in accordance with EC Regulation 1107/2006.

This also applies to passengers departing from an airport situated outside the EU to an airport situated within the EU if the air carrier is an EU Community Air Carrier. Due to the nature of some of our hotels/destinations, many may lack the simplest facilities, such as ramps for wheelchairs and door access. This may apply to shops, restaurants public transport and recreational facilities.

27. ACCOMMODATION CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT The standard international practice is to let rooms from midday to midday but this can vary between 10:00am and 3:00pm.

Therefore, if you check-in immediately after a night flight, this would normally count as one night’s accommodation. Similarly, if your return flight is at night, you will normally be required to vacate your room at 12:00 noon prior to leaving for the airport.

Day rooms are subject to availability and cost and can be arranged locally with the accommodation management. In order to guarantee an early check-in or a late check-out, the pre-payment of an extra night’s accommodation will be necessary. Please check at the time of booking.

Guests may be asked to present a credit card or a substantial cash deposit upon check-in to guarantee payment of extras/ incidentals. The use of room safes is recommended and items of value should be deposited with the hotel.

28. HOTEL ACCOMMODATION CATEGORIES Throughout our featured destinations, there are no official hotel ratings. Room and suite category descriptions which are referred to throughout the brochure and on our website are set by each individual hotel - the terminology is not our own. Therefore, you will find that some accommodation categories and their respective prices will be determined purely by location (the proximity to the beach for example) and some by the décor of the accommodation itself. Others will be a combination of the two. When we use the term ‘Ocean View’, it means just that - that the sea can be seen from the room, patio or balcony, but please note that sometimes, the view may be partial or at an oblique angle.

29. BEACHES Please note that all beaches at the accommodation/resorts featured are open to the public unless specifically stated otherwise. Minimum clothing restrictions may operate on beaches in certain countries. We cannot guarantee beaches in every country will be manned with lifeguards or provide flags for information on currents and conditions unfavourable or favourable for safe swimming or water sports. You must satisfy yourself that conditions are safe for swimming before doing so.

COUNTRY

25. WEATHER & PUBLIC UTILITIES Public utilities and continuity of services, such as water and electricity should not be taken for granted at your destination.

On tropical islands and in less developed countries, there may be interruptions to the supply. Occasionally in the tropics, severe storms and cyclones do occur. Generally, the “hurricane season” in the Caribbean, North and Central America is from June to November and in the southern hemisphere, cyclones can occur between December and April although this varies between regions and areas. It is advisable to check, prior to departure, for any unusual weather that may affect the enjoyment of your holiday.

Further information is available at www.metoffice.gov.uk.

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26. CUSTOMERS WITH ANY DISABILITY, MEDICAL CONDITION OR REDUCED MOBILITY If any member of your party has any medical condition, disability or reduced mobility which may affect your holiday or any special requirements as a result (including any which affect the booking

30. BUILDING WORKS We strive to ensure that your accommodation will not be in an area of construction and that your accommodation will not be undergoing substantial refurbishment which may cause you inconvenience. We have no control over building works our hoteliers are carrying out or building works which are being carried out in the immediate locality of your accommodation. If it comes to our attention that building works are being carried out which will or may have a material effect on your holiday we will notify you as soon as we become or are made aware of the nature of the works and whether the works will or will not cause you undue inconvenience.

some hotels/resorts may close. For example, a pool may be closed for maintenance or a restaurant for refurbishment. We will advise you of any changes to the availability of the facilities and of any work taking place known to us at the time of booking or as soon as we have been informed.

33. NATIONAL & SPECIAL RELIGIOUS PERIODS There may be restricted facilities e.g. restaurant/shop opening times, availability of public transport, recreational facilities etc, during national holidays and/or religious periods or festivals.

Ramadan is observed in Dubai, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Malaysia, The Maldives, Indonesia, India, Egypt and Morocco. It is observed in the ninth month of the Muslim Calendar, the exact dates are determined by the lunar cycle. During this period, there are restrictions with regard to eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours.

34. CAR HIRE We only deal with reputable car hire companies and, in the high season in particular, we strongly recommend that you pre-book your hire car to guarantee availability. Hirers must normally be 23 years of age or over (minimum of 25 years for prestige cars) and hold a FULL and VALID British driving licence, which must be carried at all times. Local licences (if applicable) are obtainable from the hirer or main police stations upon presentation of a British driving licence and must be paid for locally, together with petrol and optional extra insurance. When collecting your hired car, you will be asked to sign the hire car company’s standard hire agreement. This agreement is likely to contain provisions that limit or exclude the hire car company’s liability to you in certain situations. Please read the agreement carefully and ensure that you have adequate insurance cover. In some countries compulsory collision damage waiver is required. A credit card will be required as a deposit against fuel, insurance waiver, additional child/ baby seats or other costs. For infants, front airbags may not be disconnected in certain vehicles, please check with the hirer. You are advised to take out additional insurance if voluntary such as collision damage waiver or equivalent for the country of your destination.

35. AIRPORT TRANSFERS We will provide private vehicle transfers where possible.

However, when a hotel provides transfers these may, on some occasions, be by coach or shared minibus, or by motor launch as appropriate. Please note that excess luggage will necessitate the need to supply an extra vehicle, which will incur an added charge. If you are travelling with luggage in excess of your airline allowance, please advise us so that we can make the necessary arrangements. Where helicopter transfers are available, your luggage may need to be transported by road and for return flights, your luggage may have to be collected from your accommodation early in the morning. Helicopter transfers are not generally available after dark.

36. TRAVEL ADVICE The Foreign & Commonwealth Office produces up-to-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.

Alternatively, you can contact ABTA’s Travel Information line on 0901 201 5050 (calls are charged at 50 pence per minute).

27. ABTA - The Travel Association International Travel Connections Limited is a member of ABTA membership number V2359. ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitrations scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ. Tel: 020 3117 0500 or visit www.abta.com.

31. TAXES We will advise at the time of booking and with the travel documentation when, and if, any local taxes are payable in respect of the arrangements you have booked with us.

32. FACILITIES IN HIGH/LOW SEASONS In low seasons and periods of low occupancy, a few facilities at

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