India | China & South East Asia | Africa Canada | USA | Central & South America
Low Deposits
£79
per person* BOOK BY 31ST OCTOBER 2017
Discover fascinating cultures & lands...
©EPE inc.
... on an award-winning escorted tour from
Welcome
to the very best of our 2017-2019 Long Haul Escorted Tours Collection. At Newmarket Holidays, we understand that every holiday you choose is special. We never forget that your holiday time – and especially your holiday money – is precious. It’s why we go out of our way to make sure that every Newmarket holiday becomes a favourite holiday! Offering unbeatable value for money, our 20172019 collection includes even more excursions, attraction visits and cultural experiences than ever before. Fully escorted by our friendly, experienced tour managers – and often accompanied by local guides – these wonderful holidays bring to life some of the world’s most fascinating places. Exploring the wonders, both man-made and natural, of India, South Africa, the Far East and the Americas has never been easier! We look forward to making your holiday dreams a reality!
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE Giant Panda Breeding Research Centre, Chengdu
HOW TO BOOK
Newmarket Holidays’ overall rating:
Priority Booking Line:
0330 160 7922 Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-7pm, Saturday: 9am-4pm Sunday: 10am-3pm, Closed: Bank Holidays
Book Online: www.newmarketholidays.co.uk Newmarket Holidays Cantium House Railway Approach Wallington SM6 0BP Founded
1983
WINNER BEST LARGE ESCORTED TOURS HOLIDAY COMPANY
Low Deposits
£79
per person* BOOK BY 31ST OCTOBER 2017
2017-2019 Worldwide Escorted Tours Newmarket Holidays Welcome to Newmarket Holidays
4
Experience India India – Tigers & the Taj Mahal India – Tigers & the Taj Plus Shimla India – Tigers, the Taj & Amritsar’s Golden Temple Marigold Hotel Experience India – Tigers, the Taj & Nepal India’s Golden Triangle, Varanasi & Bombay Kerala & India’s South A Grand Tour of India The Colours of Sri Lanka
8 10 11 12 14 15 16 18 19
Explore Farway Places Under African Skies – Victoria Falls to Cape Town Classic South Africa Follow the Mekong – Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam Classic China & Yangtze River Cruise China – Terracotta Warriors, Pandas & the Great Wall Costa Rica – Nature’s Paradise Peru – Lake Titicaca to Machu Picchu
Discover even more on a Small‑Group Tour! Immerse yourself in the cultures and traditions of some of the world’s most fascinating places, on this selection of premium tours that include highlights and experiences shared with a smaller group of like-minded travellers holidays that go beyond the well-known sights and better-trodden paths. Wherever you see the below icon you’ll find an opportunity to travel in group sizes restricted to a maximum of 24 people.
Small-Group Tour
22 24 25 26 27 28 29
Canada Canada – Niagara Falls to the Rockies The Canadian Rockies Five-Star Alaska Cruise & the Canadian Rockies Canada’s Maple Leaf Trail Rockies Rail Adventure & the Inside Passage Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer ®
32 33 34 36 38 39
USA Elvis Presley’s Memphis, New Orleans & Nashville Deep South Rhythms, New Orleans & Caribbean Cruise Texas, Presley’s Memphis & New Orleans Texas – the Lone Star State Washington,New York & Niagara Falls East Coast Extravaganza – USA & Canada Boston, New York & Washington New England in the Fall Fall Colours of New England & Canada Follow the Fall Colours – Washington, New York & Boston America’s Golden West Hollywood, Vegas & the Grand Canyon
42 44 45 46 47 48 50 51 52 53 54 55
Cover images: Front – Palace of the Winds, Jaipur, India; Back – TheRocky Mountaineer ®, Canada *Low deposit of £79 per person applies to new bookings only made between 1st October and 31st October 2017 (inclusive only). This offer applies to air-inclusive holidays only and excludes Memphis & Nashville, Deep South Rhythms, New Orleans & Caribbean Cruise, Five-Star Alaska Cruise & the Canadian Rockies, and Five-Star Alaska Cruise & the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer ® Extension. This offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time.
3
Visit fascinating lands with Newmarket Holidays 35 years’ experience
Every Escorted Holiday includes:
We have been looking after the travel arrangements of happy customers since 1983, and we are privileged to be able to continue to share the sights and sounds, the natural wonders and the man-made glories of our wonderful world with them. When you select a Newmarket Holiday, you can rest assured that you have chosen a company that will provide you with an experience that not only belies the price you pay, but that also matches and regularly exceeds your expectations. All of your travel arrangements are safe and financially protected through our ATOL bond with the CAA.
• Comprehensive, thoughtfully planned itineraries • Interesting included guided tours and excursions • The services of an experienced tour manager • Carefully chosen, good quality hotels • Return flights on reputable airlines from a large choice of UK airports • A choice of great value optional excursions • Comfortable, modern coach travel and transfers • Full financial protection through ABTA & ATOL • 24-hour emergency hotline number
Our Tour Managers So much is included! Our tours include even more excursions than ever before, with many entrance fees to the monuments and attractions we visit also included in the price. In addition to enjoying all the included tours, you can complete your holiday experience by joining some very special optional excursions. Tours to India and China include most meals. Board bases on our trips to the Far East and South Africa vary from tour to tour but are bed and breakfast as a minimum, with many other meals included throughout. USA & Canada tours in this brochure are generally ‘room-only’. Please see the highlights and inclusions of individual tours for details. Where all meals aren’t included, we ensure that our hotels offer in-house dining or are located near good restaurants, and that we make appropriate stops at lunchtime. Your tour manager will always be with you to give you advice on the choices available to you.
Adding immeasurably to the pleasure of every Newmarket escorted tour, our dedicated, professional Tour Managers bring to life the places visited, providing colour and local background to the sights and attractions.
Visas Some of the holidays within this brochure require visas before you travel. Where appliicable, details of requirements for British passport holders are noted on the relevant tour pages.
Excellent Hotels Whether a ‘bed for a night’, or the base for a longer stay, the accommodation featured on a Newmarket escorted tour is invariably a highlight of your holiday experience. Each will have been selected for its comfort and convenience and the range of amenities provided at day’s end. Above everything, you can expect a warm, friendly welcome and a comfortable night’s sleep.
Don’t just take our word for it... Newmarket Holidays’ In the past 12 months, , a third party independent overall rating: review service, has seen Newmarket Holidays’ Worldwide Escorted Tours achieve a five-star rating from customers, with an impressive 93% saying they will book again with Newmarket Holidays. “An amazing and unforgettable experience that will stay with me for a lifetime.” — Mrs Brooker, India, Tigers & the Taj Mahal
“For us it was a dream holiday. To take in Graceland, Sun Studio, Jerry Lee Lewis’ bar, Nashville Broadway and its bars… just fantastic and highly recommended by us. We will go again some day!” — Mr Stutely, Elvis Presley’s Memphis, New Orleans & Nashville
“...excellent, well organised company who put the customer at the heart of everything they do - made the holiday a truly exceptional experience.” — Miss Laing, Canadian Rockies
“Just a beautiful holiday, and such good value for money! The hotels were of such good quality and our tour manager was wonderful - she was so knowledgeable and helpful. We will be travelling with you again in the near future!” — Ms Cowan, Hollywood, Vegas & the Grand Canyon
“I have to congratulate you on a most amazing experience. This was more than a holiday, this was a voyage of discovery! I have seen sights that have taken my breath away, seen people who have had amazing life experiences, and seen things from a historical perspective. The organisation and coordination of the tour guides, hotel and transportation all went without a single hitch from the day I left to the day I landed.” — Ms Baskaran, Follow The Mekong – Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam
Upgrade your flight We are delighted to work in partnership with some of the best scheduled airlines including Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways. All prices include travel in economy class where all meals, drinks and entertainment are included. For that extra special occasion or for extra comfort, we are pleased to offer competitively priced upgrades on most tours to Premium Economy and Business Class, where available. To find out more, simply contact us or discuss your requirements at the time of booking.
Fly from your local airport
On some tours you can fly direct from regional airports, whilst on others we generally offer reasonably priced connections from your local airport to join your flights in London. Call us for further details.
Your next favourite holiday awaits...
Ranthambhore National Park
Once a hunting ground of Indian royalty and visiting dignitaries, Ranthambhore National Park is now one of the best examples of India’s conservation programme, Project Tiger. Over 1334km2, covered with trees, scrub and grasslands and dotted with beautiful ponds and streams, it is home to a growing population of endangered Bengal tigers and offers a rare chance to see these beautiful beasts in their natural jungle habitat. See pages 8-11, 14 & 18 for tours that visit Ranthambhore
Chand Baori Stepwell
The other-worldly stepwells of India are an incredible sight to behold. One of the finest examples, Abhaneri’s Chand Baori, is some 1,300 years old and still serves the age-old purpose of conserving water in an arid climate, and acting as a gathering place for locals during periods of intense heat – the temperature at the bottom being some 4-5 degrees lower than at the surface! You may recognise it from the UK film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. See pages 8, 10 & 14 for tours that visit Chand Baori
Amritsar’s Golden Temple
Also known as Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar’s Golden Temple is the holiest Gurdwara of Sikhism and holds the Adi Granth – Sikhism’s holy scripture. It attracts 100,000 worshipers DAILY! During your visit here, you will be able to join the throng for the extraordinary Palki ceremony where worshippers line the bridge over the sacred lake each evening for the Adi Granth’s procession. See page 11 for our tour that visits Amritsar’s Golden Temple
Lion Rock, Sigiriya
Probably the most visited tourist destination in Sri Lanka, Lion Rock rises 200m above the trees of the jungle below and astonishes visitors with panoramic views from its peak. Since 300BC, the rock has been home to a monastery, a royal palace and a fortress to name but three things. It is also home to some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. See page 19 for our tour that visits Lion Rock
The ghats of Varanasi
The most sacred river of Hinduism, the Ganges attracts countless pilgrims every day. The river’s banks are lined with ghats (a series of steps leading down to the water’s edge) used by the faithful to approach and enter the water, so that their bodies (and indeed souls) can be purified by the flowing water. See page 15 for our tour that visits Varanasi
6
Experience India & Sri Lanka
Two wonderful countries brimming with incredible wildlife, breathtaking architecture and fascinating history, delicious cuisine, friendly people and so much more. Welcome to India and Sri Lanka!
The Taj Mahal
A must-see for any first-time visitor to India, the Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th Century to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. More than 300 years later, the breath-taking ‘Taj’ is still a symbol of undying love and attracts over 7 million visitors from around the world each year. See pages 8-15 & 18 for tours that visit the Taj Mahal
Start planning your adventure today... 7
Taj Mahal
India – Tigers & the Taj Mahal
10 ? days from
£1,199 £xxx
This classic tour of northern India’s greatest cities is the perfect introduction to one of the world’s most fascinating and alluring destinations AVAILABLE: Nov 2017, Jan to May, Sep to Nov 2018, Jan to May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Discover New Delhi, including the historic Red Fort & Jama Masjid Mosque, the India Gate war memorial and the ruins of the Quwwat‑ul-Islam mosque • A guided tour of Agra, the ‘City of Love’ • Marvel at the incomparable Taj Mahal • Search for Ranthambhore’s tigers on two included safaris • Ride up to Amber Fort for exceptional views • Visit Jaipur’s exquisite Palace of the Winds and enjoy dinner hosted by a local family • Stay in a beautiful tented resort in Vanaashrya • Enjoy an Indian cookery demonstration • Eight nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation, five lunches, plus one night on the plane • Return flights to Delhi
FLY FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Edinburgh* £1,249 • Heathrow £1,199 (UK connecting flights available - call us for details) • Manchester* £1,249 *Please note: Departures from Manchester and Edinburgh operate with Etihad Airlines vis Abu Dhabi. The itinerary order varies slightly as described in the brochure. Content, sightseeing and duration remain the same.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £499 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to India. Current cost is approximately £58 per person.
8
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Uncover India’s exotic wonders on a thrilling adventure. Explore the teeming, colourful, spectacular cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – homes to such unparalleled sights as The Red Fort, the Palace of the Winds, and the aweinspiring Taj Mahal – and step into a landscape said to have inspired Kipling as you spend two nights ‘on safari’ in Ranthambhore, one-time hunting ground of Indian princes and now a national park and home to the legendary ‘Tigers of Ranthambhore’. Day One Your holiday begins with an overnight flight from the UK to Delhi. Day Two Upon arrival this morning, transfer to the hotel and after an included lunch and time to freshen up, join your tour manager on a guided tour, which will introduce you to the vibrant Old City. Drive by the historic Red Fort, Jama Masjid Mosque and Raj Ghat, Gandhi’s cremation site close to the Yamuna River. You’ll also enjoy an exhilarating rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of old Chandni Chowk. Later explore the grandeur of New Delhi. Built by the British Raj, highlights will include the historic India Gate war memorial and the vast boulevard of the Rajpath. Day Three Visit the ruins of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque and the ornate Qutb Minar tower that rises from them, before continuing on to Agra, the fabled ‘City of Love’ and site of the exquisite Taj Mahal. After a visit to the royal pavilions, palaces and courtyards of majestic Agra Fort, pay a first visit to the spectacular ‘Taj’, built as a monument to undying love by griefstricken Shah Jahan after the death of his beloved third wife, and seen in all its glory at sunset. Day Four Early this morning, pay a sun-rise visit to view the Taj from across the Yamuna River, and after breakfast, depart
City Palace Jaipur
Ranthambhore
Ranthambhore
for the ancient village of Abhaneri, home to Chand Baori, an astonishing example of a stepwell, used to draw water from the ground, and as a refuge in intense heat, since at least the 6th Century. A lunch stop is made at the fascinating Umaid Lake Palace, a Heritage Resort Hotel set in 20 verdant acres, laid out in the style of a Mughal residence, and serving as an organic retreat, producing foodstuffs for the hotel and its fine restaurant. Enjoy a memorable meal and tour the landscaped gardens. Later, continue to Ranthambhore National Park, part of India’s conservation programme Project Tiger. Once the hunting ground of Indian princes, Ranthambhore, with its scrub and grasslands dotted with beautiful ponds and streams, is a perfect habitat for the famed, endangered ‘Tigers of Ranthambhore’ and other species. After an included lunch, relax at the hotel, and this evening, prior to tomorrow’s adventures, enjoy a ‘tiger talk’ with a local naturalist.
plain into the Aravali Hills to the jungle resort of Vanaashyra, calling at the fascinating ruins of 17th-century Bhangarh Fort, where you’ll enjoy a welcome tea or coffee. This afternoon, enjoy a camel-cart ride and cookery demonstration before spending the night in an air-conditioned tent – a highlight of your visit to this wonderful corner of the world. Day Nine Transfer back to Delhi, calling en route at the fascinating Heritage Transport Museum, with its impressive collections covering the development of India’s road, rail and air travel industries, as well as transport-related toys and memorabilia. Spend a last night in the capital. Day 10 This morning, depart for the airport and return flight to the UK, arriving late afternoon, at the end of a truly marvellous holiday.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: The Suryaa
Day Five An undoubted highlight of the tour will be today’s two canter (open-air vehicle) safaris in the Park, taken in the company of a naturalist guide. With luck you may see the tigers and other species in their natural environment.
Delhi
Day Six This morning, rest and relax, or join the optional excursion to ancient Ranthambhore Fort, which sits atop the 600-metre high hill range, and offers stupendous views of the park below.
Trident
Bidding farewell to Ranthambhore, you’ll depart for the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur for a two-night stay. Please note: There is a gradual climb to the Fort, which includes 273 steps.
Day Seven After breakfast, visit Amber, the ancient Rajput capital dominated by the 16th-century hill-top stronghold of Amber Fort. Ride up to the fort by Jeep to visit the Royal Halls and take in the magnificent views from the ramparts. After an included lunch, you’ll tour Jaipur, including the City Palace complex with its museums and ancient astronomical observatory, and drive by the 18th-century ‘Palace of the Winds’, with its innumerable windows and screened balconies. Dinner tonight is taken at the Nokha House, hosted by the Rathore family in traditional Rajasthani style. Day Eight Bid farewell to Jaipur and journey across the desert
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
nights 2 & 9
This hotel has a lovely outdoor swimming pool area, a gym, a bar, a coffee shop and two restaurants. night 3
Agra
Close to the Taj Mahal and laid out around its swimming pool and beautifully landscaped garden.
Ranthambhore Regency nights 4-5 Ranthambhore
The perfect place to enjoy the area’s wildlife to its full extent, this hotel boasts spacious gardens with a pool.
Shahpura House
nights 6-7
Jaipur
A gem in downtown Jaipur, this heritage hotel has beautiful lawns and gardens, a restaurant and a swimming pool.
Vanaashrya
night 8
Rajgarh
Set in the foothills of Aravali ranges, the deluxe tented accommodation provides all modern comforts.
9
Ranthambhore
Red Fort, Dehli
Viceregal Lodge, Shimla
India – Tigers & the Taj Plus Shimla
13 days from
£1,899
All encompassing tour of India’s Golden Triangle with the tigers of Ranthambhore and a trip to Shimla, the famous hill station created by the British Raj.
AVAILABLE:
Jan to May, Sep to Nov 2018, Jan to May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Discover New Delhi, including the historic Red Fort & Jama Masjid Mosque, the India Gate war memorial and the ruins of the Quwwat‑ul-Islam mosque • ‘Toy-train’ journey to or from Shimla • Stay in Shimla’s famed Oberoi Cecil Hotel – an institution since the days of the Raj • Visit Jaipur’s exquisite Palace of the Winds and enjoy dinner hosted by a local family • Ride up to Amber Fort for exceptional views • A guided tour of Agra, the ‘City of Love’ • Marvel at the incomparable Taj Mahal • Search for Ranthambhore’s tigers on two included safaris • Stay in a beautiful tented resort in Vanaashrya • Enjoy an Indian cookery demonstration • 11 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation, 11 lunches, plus one night on the plane • Return scheduled flights to Delhi, plus domestic flights in India
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,899 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £659 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to India. Current cost is approximately £58 per person.
10
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This exotic adventure will take you through the spectacular streets of Old Delhi by rickshaw; to Jaipur with its Palace of the Winds and hilltop Amber Fort before heading to fabled Agra with the incomparable Taj Mahal. A rolling landscape, which supposedly inspired Kipling is your base for two nights ‘on safari’ at Ranthambhore National Park whilst we will end our Indian journey with two relaxing nights in a luxury tented resort. The highlight of this tour is our journey up to the hill station left by the British Raj who visited Shimla in the hot summers to avoid the heat of the plains below. Travel by Lord Curzon’s 1903 ‘toy train’ and enjoy exceptional views as we climb though the foothills of the Himalayas.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: The Suryaa, Delhi (night 2) A modern hotel with bar, restaurant and outdoor pool. Oberoi Cecil, Shimla (nights 3-4) A magnificent, very well appointed hotel in the heart of Shimla. Hilton, Jaipur (nights 5-7) A modern city hotel with pool and enticing coffee shop. Doubletree by Hilton, Agra (night 8) A spacious and modern with an Indian twist and close to the Taj Mahal. Ranthambhore Regency (night 9-10) This hotel has a pool and is the perfect setting to enjoy the area’s wildlife. Vanaashrya, Rajgarh (nights 11-12) Luxury tented accommodation in a gorgeous, lakeside setting.
Ranthambhore Fort
Amber Fort, Jaipur
Golden Temple, Amritsar
India – Tigers, the Taj & £xxx Amritsar’s Golden Temple £1,749 14 ? days from
A journey of the senses, taking in the Golden Triangle, sacred sites and some of northern India’s most alluring countryside.
AVAILABLE:
Jan to May, Sep to Nov 2018, Jan to Mar & May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Included visits to Old and New Delhi • View Amber Fort and Jaipur’s Palace of the Winds • Stay in Ranthambhore National Park with two safaris • Included guided tour of Agra, ‘City of Love’ • A visit to the immortal Taj Mahal • Visits to Amritsar’s Golden Temple by day and night • Witness the Palki ceremony at the Golden Temple • See an Indo-Pakistani border closing ceremony at Wagah • A drive through the foothills of the Himalayas • Explore ‘Heritage Village’ Pragpur • 12 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation seven lunches, plus one night on the plane • Return flights to Delhi, an internal flight between Amritsar and Delhi, and 1st class rail travel between Delhi and Jalandhar
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,749 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSION: • Ranthambhore Fort – £16
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £589 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to India. Current cost is approximately £58 per person.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Search for tigers and see the unforgettable Taj Mahal on this enthralling tour of Northern India, which also includes a journey into the prosperous province of Punjab, home to Amritsar’s sacred Golden Temple. Visit Delhi, which is explored on an included guided tour and a traditional rickshaw ride, call at Amber Fort and see Jaipur’s Palace of the Winds, and discover Agra, ‘City of Love’, and home to the majestic Taj Mahal. You’ll also see the beautiful Himalayan hill state Himachal-Pradesh, one of India’s most arresting and beguiling regions. Other highlights include ‘tiger-spotting’ in Ranthambhore, a colourful border ceremony, exquisite Tibetan-influenced Dharamsala and a journey on the Shatbadi Express.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: The Suryaa, Delhi (nights 2 & 9) This hotel has a lovely outdoor swimming pool area, Shahpura House, Jaipur (nights 3-4) A beautiful, central hotel with a restaurant and a bar. Ranthambhore Regency, Ranthambhore (nights 5-6) The perfect setting to enjoy the area’s wildlife. Raj Niwas Palace, Dholpur (night 7) Experience the area’s wildlife staying in your own private pool villa. Trident Hotel, Agra (night 8) The hotel’s pool and pool bar are set in the extensive grounds. The Judge’s Court, Pragpur (nights 10-11) A fine, relaxing country hotel set in the foothills of the Himalayas. Holiday Inn, Amritsar (nights 12-13) Centrally located with two restaurants and an outdoor pool.
11
NEW
Small-Group Tour
Marigold Hotel Experience Step into the world’s most colourful and most exciting culture on a tour of India that takes you beyond the famous sights. AVAILABLE: Apr, May, Sep to Nov 2018, Jan to Mar & May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Delve into the culture, cuisine, transport and lifestyle of the world’s most fascinating country • Meet local families in Jaipur and Kochi • Travel by ‘tuk-tuk’, cycle rickshaw and Jeep • Discover the sights of Old and New Delhi • Explore Jaipur’s Amber Fort, City Palace and Observatory • Guided tour of exquisite Udaipur plus movie locations from the film ‘Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ • Enjoy a cruise on Udaipur’s Lake Pichola • See Cochin’s famous Chinese fishing nets • Experience a Kathakali dance ritual in Fort Cochin • Enjoy dinner at the ‘Le Colonial’ in Kochi • Spend a day on a traditional kettuvallam houseboat • End your stay at a small and friendly beach resort • 14 nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation, five lunches and 12 dinners sharing a twin/double room, plus one night on the plane
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,995 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Elefantastic - £59, Agra & the Taj Mahal with lunch & tea - £89, Ayurveda - one hour traditional body massage - £39
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £640 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to India. Current cost is approximately £58 per person.
12
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
16 days from
£1,995
Inspired by the movies and TV shows that have unveiled the mysteries and the delight of life in India, this Small-Group Tour combines some of the great sights of Delhi, Rajasthan and Kerala with opportunities to step ‘behind the curtain’, meeting local families, shopping in colourful markets and experiencing different types of Indian cuisine, while staying in some delightful ‘Heritage’ and ‘Home-Stay’ hotels. In addition to your real life India experiences you’ll spend time in Delhi where sites include the historic Red Fort, Jama Masjid Mosque and Raj Ghat, Gandhi’s cremation site. In Jaipur you’ll take in Amber’s immense fort, astronomical observatory, and ‘Palace of the Winds’. You’ll also have the chance to see the incomparable Taj Mahal and Agra Fort on an optional excursion. Discover the Ravla Khempur hotel, setting for the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel movies before the second part of your escorted holiday in Kochi, where an afternoon cruise aboard a traditional, thatch-roofed ‘Kettuvallam’ houseboat is included prior to two relaxing final nights on a Keralan beach.
SPECIAL DEPARTURES: Celebrate Diwali – India’s Festival of Lights 1 November 2018 from £2,249 According to popular legend, when Lord Rama returned from exile, people lit candles and diya to celebrate his return to the Kingdom. This is now celebrated as a major Hindu festival marked by family gatherings, and by decorative displays of candles and lamps shining from rooftops and doorsteps, in windows, and all around temple buildings.
Holi – India’s Festival of Colours & Love 15 March 2019 from £2,299 Associated with Krishna, a Hindu festival which celebrates the beginning of spring as well as the triumph of good over evil. Enter the fun spirit as coloured powder is thrown!
Houseboat
Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds)
YOUR REAL LIFE INDIA EXPERIENCES:
Indian Spice – the Culinary Heritage Join families as they shop at a market, then watch - or help - them prepare the food before dinner! ✥✥Learn age-old recipes ✥✥Step into the family kitchen ✥✥Uncover the flavours of ‘lassi’ ✥✥Watch Kochi’s fishermen land their catch
Old Delhi
Lake Pichola, Udaipur
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: By their very nature, the properties we use for this programme are smaller, often family-run hotels where we aim to really immerse you into the real India! In all cases we have seen the hotels and have carefully selected them for their warmth and charm. All are spotlessly clean! Most do not have a lift although most have ground floor rooms. When dinner is served, this is often buffet style. All bedrooms are air conditioned with tea/coffee-making facilities and most will also have a safe and TV.
Dance – it’s a Way of Life
Colonel’s Retreat
Learn about the movements, costumes and accessories that characterise Bollywood dance. ✥✥Rajhastani folk-dancing involves magic and puppetry ✥✥See Kathakali’s breathtaking story plays
This small hotel boasts comfortable lounges and a roof-top restaurant serving home-cooked food. Family members attend mealtimes.
Marigold Hotels Imagined and Real Explore the locations for both the much-loved ‘Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ movies and ‘The Real Marigold hotel’ TV series, and hear ‘behind the scenes’ tales! ✥✥Tour Udaipur’s movie locations ✥✥Enjoy lunch at Ravla Khempur – the movies’ hotel setting ✥✥Dine at Le Colonial – home stay location from the TV series The Real Marigold Hotel and spend time with Mr Josemon who appeared in the series
Bicycles, Tuk-tuks & Rickshaws Throughout the tour, you’ll have opportunities to experience travel by the most traditional forms of Indian transport. ✥✥Enjoy tours by tuk-tuk and cycle-rickshaw ✥✥Get an up close and personal view of Udaipur on an early morning city tour by bicycle
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Delhi
Suryaa Villa Jaipur
A Family-Run Hotel nights 2-3
Home Stay nights 4-7
A mile from Jaipur’s old bazaars, this hotel is built around a courtyard, and boasts a pool and restaurant. Comfortable rooms are all on the second floor.
Garden Hotel Udaipur
Heritage Hotel nights 8-10
This serene, bougainvillea–covered, centrally located hotel houses a collection of vintage cars, and boasts two restaurants and beautiful gardens.
Fort House Hotel Kochi
Heritage Hotel nights 11-13
Sea breezes, a lush tropical garden with traditional verandah, and an oceanfront restaurant are features of this charming family-run hotel.
El Oceano Beach Villas Boutique Resort Mararikulam
nights 14-15
This Keralan-style boutique hotel has a pool and an Ayurvedic mind and body treatment centre, which utilizes herbs from the hotel’s garden. The beach is a 15-minute walk (or shorter by hotel bike!)
13
Palace of the Winds
Chitwan National Park
India – Tigers, the Taj & Nepal
17 days from
£2,299
Discover the glorious ‘Golden Triangle’ cities, Ranthambhore’s protected tigers, and the ancient, beautiful land in the shadow of the mighty Himalayas. AVAILABLE: Jan, Apr, May & Sep to Nov 2018, Jan, Mar & May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Discover and explore Old and New Delhi • Journey to ‘City of Love’ Agra, with its fabled Taj Mahal • Search for Ranthambhore’s tigers on two included safaris • Stay in ‘Pink City’ Jaipur and visit the Amber Fort • Stay in luxury tented resort Vanaashrya • Fly to Nepalese capital Kathmandu • Enjoy a dinner in climbers’ restaurant Rum Doodle • Journey to Pokhara, Himalayan idyll • See the sun rise over the Annapurna range • Spend two nights in Chitwan National Park • Enjoy a canoe trip and an elephant safari • 15 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation, nine lunches, plus one night on the aircraft • Return scheduled flights to Delhi, and between Delhi and Kathmandu
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,299 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSION: • Ranthambhore Fort – £16
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £849 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens travelling to India and Nepal. Current cost to India is £58 per person and Nepal is £20 per person.
14
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This fascinating escorted tour begins in Delhi, India’s pulsating capital, before visits to Agra – home to the peerless Taj Mahal – to tiger refuge Ranthambhore National Park and Jaipur, with its majestic Amber Fort, are followed by a stay in a jungle resort. You’ll then fly to Nepal, the beautiful Himalayan former kingdom, where ancient, fabled Kathmandu, magical Pokhara, at the foot of the Annapurna mountain range, and UNESCO-listed Chitwan National Park are unforgettable highlights.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: The Suryaa, Delhi (nights 2 & 9) This hotel has a lovely outdoor swimming pool area. Trident, Agra (night 3) Close to the Taj Mahal and laid out around its swimming pool and beautifully landscaped garden. Ranthambhore Regency, Ranthambhore (nights 4-5) The perfect place to enjoy the area’s wildlife, this hotel boasts spacious gardens. Shahpura House, Jaipur (nights 6-7) This heritage hotel has beautiful lawns and gardens. Vanaashrya, Rajgarh (night 8) Set in the foothills of Aravali ranges, around a lake, the tented accommodation provides all modern comforts. Crowne Plaza Soaltee, Kathmandu (nights 10-11 & 16) This hotel is set in 12 acres of gardens.Pokhara Grand, Pokhara (nights 12-13) Centrally located within easy walking distance of local sights and the markets.Jungle Villa Resort, Chitwan (nights 14-15) Well-furnished cottages, all overlooking the picturesque Rapti river and Chitwan National Park..
City Palace, Jaipur
Amber Fort Garden, Jaipur
Ganges in Varanasi
India’s Golden Triangle, Varanasi & Bombay
11 ? days from
£1,599 £xxx
The fabled ‘Golden Triangle’, the Ganges’ holy waters and Mumbai’s Victorian splendours and modern vitality – all discovered and explored. AVAILABLE: Jan, Mar & Apr 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Discover and explore Old and New Delhi • Journey by train to ‘City of Love’ Agra, with its Red Fort • See the incomparable Taj Mahal at sunset • Visit deserted city Fatehpur Sikri • Climb to the Amber Fort by Jeep • Enjoy the sights of ‘Pink City’ Jaipur • Spend a night in an historic palace at Patan • Fly to the holy city of Varanasi • Experience the sacred Aarti ceremony and a morning boat trip on the Ganges • Discover the ruins of Buddhist Sarnath • End the tour with two fascinating days in Mumbai • Eight nights’ half-board accommodation at excellently appointed hotels, plus two nights on the aircraft • Lunch on day two in Delhi and a farewell dinner in Mumbai • Return scheduled flights to Delhi, returning from Mumbai plus two domestic flights in India
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,599 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £559 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to India. Current cost is approximately £58 per person.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Enjoy a journey from Delhi’s stunning glories to Agra, ‘City of Love’, and watch the sunrise over the peerless Taj. Explore ‘Pink City’ Jaipur; stay a night in a Rajasthani palace; watch the faithful at sacred Varanasi and discover historic, colourful Mumbai, on this mesmerising escorted tour that unveils some of India’s most breathtaking sights, reveals its ancient rituals and sacred ceremonies, and showcases some of its cutting-edge modernity, framed against the remnants of Empire.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: The Suryaa, Delhi (night 2) This hotel has a lovely outdoor swimming pool area. Trident Hotel, Agra (night 3) Close to the Taj Mahal, this hotel is set around a landscaped garden. Trident Hotel, Jaipur (nights 4-5) In extensive grounds, this hotel has a lovely pool area which is surrounded by shaded areas. Patan Mahal, Patan (night 6) A splendid Palace property in the hills with its own farm which provides most of the food served in the restaurant along with a lovely pool and terrace. Gateway Hotel Ganges, Varanasi (nights 7-8) A modern hotel with nice gardens, a spa and a pool. There are two restaurants, a cosy bar and all rooms have modern amenities. Vivanta by Taj President, Mumbai (nights 9) Modern and centrally located, this hotel has a bar, restaurants, gym, spa and pool.
15
Pancha Pandava Rathas, Mahabalipuram
Kerala & India’s South
18? days from
£1,799 £xxx
Explore an idyllic land of ancient ports, labyrinthine backwaters, forested uplands dotted with colourful temples and tea-plantations. AVAILABLE: Jan, Apr & May, Sep to Nov 2018, Jan to May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Fly into modern Bangalore, India’s ‘Garden City’ • Cross the Mysore Plateau and visit Srirangapatnam • See Mysore’s beautifully illuminated Maharaja’s Palace • Journey through the foothills of the Western Ghats • Ride from hill-station Ooty on the ‘Toy Train’ • Journey to Keralan Cochin by express train • See Cochin’s famous Chinese fishing nets • Spend a night on a traditional kettuvallam houseboat • Idyllic Periyar boasts a famous Wildlife Sanctuary • Colourful, unforgettable temple-town Madurai • Enjoy a cycle-rickshaw ride to Madurai’s markets • Relax in elegant seaside resort Mahabalipuram • Enjoy a panoramic tour of Chennai, the former Madras • 14 nights’ carefully chosen dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation, one night’s full-board hotel accommodation on a traditional Keralan houseboat, plus two nights on the plane • Return scheduled flights via Mumbai or Abu Dhabi
FLY FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,799 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £750 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to India. Current cost is approximately £58 per person.
16
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Explore languid, verdant Kerala, temple-dotted Tamil Nadu, the historic hill stations of the rolling Western Ghats and the dusty Mysore Plateau. This is an idyllic, tropical land of ancient trading ports, traditional houseboats, and forested uplands dotted with churches, temples and tea and spice plantations. Day One Fly overnight to Bangalore via Mumbai or Abu Dhabi. Day Two Arrive in Bangalore, meet your Tour Manager at the airport, transfer to your hotel, and enjoy dinner and relax. Day Three We begin with a tour of Bangalore. See the Vidhana Soudha state ‘capitol’, the 16th-century Bull Temple, and the Summer Palace of British military adversary Tipu Sultan. Later you’ll journey by coach to Mysore. Day Four Today you’ll visit the Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore’s spectacular Maharaja’s Palace and the Railway Museum. This afternoon, we head to the Keshava Vishnu temple at Somnathpur, returning to Mysore in the evening to the glittering sight of the Palace illuminated by thousands of golden lights. Backwaters of Kerala
Fishing Nets, Cochin
Tea Plantations, Kerala
Day Five This morning you’ll head into Tamil Nadu and the foothills of the Western Ghats as you make your way to Ooty, the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’. Day Six Today you’ll ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway through forested hills to Mettupalayam. On the way, you’ll stop for a tour of a tea factory followed by lunch. From Mettupalayam we’ll head to Coimbatore. Day Seven This afternoon we’ll take the Ernakulam Express to Kerala for your two-night stay in Cochin. Day Eight Enjoy a guided tour of Cochin - wander the grounds of Mattancherry Palace, visit the Paradesi Synagogue and tour Fort Cochin, an famous for its Chinese fishing nets. This evening, experience a traditional Kathakali dance performance. Day Nine Today you’ll board a traditional thatch-roofed kettuvallam houseboat. Relax on-board as the vessel passes rice fields, coconut plantations, temples and tiny islands. Later, your on-board chef will prepare a traditional Keralan evening meal for you before you spend the night on board. Day 10 Wave farewell to your kettuvallam, and journey into the foothills of the Western Ghats to your hotel in Periyar where a guided tour of a local spice plantation awaits. Day 11 Witness India’s wild side this morning with an optional guided walk through Periyar’s wildlife sanctuary. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat-ride on the lake at the sanctuary’s centre. Possibly see numerous endangered and rare mammals, including Indian elephants, palm civets, giant squirrels and - for the lucky few - wild tigers and leopards. Day 12 Descending from hill country, you’ll journey to Madurai - one of Asia’s oldest cities and home to the incredible Meenakshi Temple. Day 13 This morning you’ll have an introduction to Madurai’s Old City, with its colourful temple gates, and beautiful Meenakshi temple. You can also visit the beautiful 17thcentury Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal. Later, enjoy the buzz a cycle-rickshaw through the bustling streets and local markets. Day 14 Travel through a landscape of rice-paddies to Gallic Pondicherry, where French is still widely spoken and kepi-wearing ‘gendarmes’ patrol the promenade. Day 15 Visit the Pondicherry Museum, and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram spiritual community before we head north along the
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary
coast to the seaside resort of Mahabalipuram, where you’ll spend your final two nights in India. Day 16 Today’s morning sightseeing tour includes the extraordinary, 8th-century Shore Temple, the monolithic stone ‘chariots’ of the Pancha Pandava Rathas complex and the vast, cave-cut Krishna Mandapam Temple. This evening you’ll enjoy a Farewell Dinner at your hotel. Day 17 You’ll say goodbye to India, today. After transferring to Chennai you’ll take a panoramic tour of the city of Clive of India, which will include the Fort Museum, the famous Chepauk Cricket Stadium and St Mary’s Church - the ‘Westminster Abbey’ of Asia. After the tour, we’ll transfer to the airport to board your overnight flight home via Mumbai or Abu Dhabi. Day 18: Arrive back in the UK at the end of a colourful, enthralling journey.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Grand Bangalore by GRT, Bangalore (nt 2) In the heart of the city overlooking the Ulsoor Lake. Radisson Blu Hotel, Mysore (nts 3-4) Set against the Chamundi Hills, in the heart of the city. Taj Savoy, Ooty (nt 5) A colonial charm reminiscent of the Raj. Vivanta by Taj Surya, Coimbatore (nt 6) A modern city hotel with restaurants and a bar. Trident Hotel, Kochi (nts 7-8) Set around a courtyard with spacious grounds. Deluxe Houseboat, Alleppey (nt 9) An authentic way of experiencing Kerala. Greenwoods, Periyar (nts 1011) This hotel is close to the wildlife park. Taj Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai (nts 12-13) Set in large scenic gardens and built in traditional style. Accord, Pondicherry (nt 14) A relatively new hotel with a bar and a restaurant. Grand Bay Resort & Spa, Mahabalipuram (nts 15-16) Set by the beach and a great place to relax.
17
Temple of Meenakshi, Madurai
Palace of the Winds
Taj Mahal
18 days from
£2,399
A Grand Tour of India
From the ‘Golden Triangle’ cities of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, to Kerala’s labyrinthine backwaters, this is the perfect introduction to an extraordinary country. AVAILABLE: Nov 2017, Jan to May, Sep to Nov 2018, Jan to Mar, May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Discover Delhi’s Red Fort & Jama Masjid Mosque, the India Gate war memorial and the Quwwat‑ul-Islam • Visit Jaipur’s ‘Palace of the Winds’ and the Amber Fort • Search for tigers at the Ranthambhore National Park • A visit to Agrasen Ki Baoli stepwell and a cookery demonstration • A visit to the wondrous Taj Mahal • Explore Kochi with its famous Chinese fishing nets • A night on a traditional houseboat • Visit Periyar’s Wildlife Sanctuary, with a lake cruise • A night-time cycle-rickshaw ride in the Madurai • Visit the Munnar tea plantations & Tata Tea Museum • 15 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation, nine lunches, plus one night on the plane • Flights to Delhi returning from Kochi via Mumbai, and an internal flight from Delhi to Kochi
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,399 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Ranthambhore Fort – £16, Periyar Guided Trek – £11
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £750 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to India. Current cost is approximately £58 per person.
18
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
From the ‘Golden Triangle’ cities of pulsating capital Delhi, ‘Pink’ Jaipur and glorious Agra – home to the peerless Taj Mahal – to Ranthambhore’s preserved tigers, and from the verdant glories of Kerala’s labyrinthine backwaters, lush hill country and tea plantations, to the stunning temples of the neighbouring province of Tamil Nadu, this is a perfect introduction, full of fascination and delight from beginning to end, to the land of mystery and wonder, contrasts and colour that is mesmerising, magical India. Join us to experience it all.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambhore & Agra hotels (nts 2-6 & 8) Please see page 11 for information on the hotels used for these destinations. Raj Niwas Palace, Dholpur (nt 7) Pool villas are set in the lush grounds of the original red sandstone palace. Trident Hotel, Kochi (nts 9-10) Offers a pool and an Ayurvedic Therapy Centre. Deluxe Houseboat, Alleppey (nt 11) A traditional thatched houseboat – the authentic way to experience Kerala. Greenwoods, Periyar (nts 12-13) Close to the wildlife park, this hotel has a pool and a tree-house coffee-shop. Taj Hotel, Madurai (nts 14-15) This luxurious resort is a quiet haven in the bustling city. Tea Country Resort, Munnar (nt 16) This new hotel offers tremendous views. Courtyard Marriott, Kochi (nt 17) A modern base with a restaurant and outdoor pool.
Small-Group Tour
Lion Rock, Sigiriya
Traditional fishermen near Galle in Sri Lanka
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
11 ? days from
£1, £xxx 699
Colours of Sri Lanka
Discover one of the world’s most enthralling island paradises on a tour combining scenic journeys, a wildlife safari and an ocean-side stay. AVAILABLE: Jan to Mar, May, Oct & Nov 2018, Jan to Mar & May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Explore colourful Colombo, with lunch at the Cricket Club Café • See Pinnawala’s orphaned elephants • Marvel at Dambulla’s stunning Royal Rock Temple • Discover UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa • Climb the ‘Lion Rock’ to the Fortress of Sigiriya • A visit to a spice garden and tea plantation • Enjoy lakeside Kandy and visit the Temple of the Tooth • Enjoy the unforgettable train ride to Nuwara Eliya – ‘Little England’ and Sri Lanka’s ‘Tea Capital’ • Relax and enjoy a safari at Yala National Park – home to elephants, buffaloes, leopards, bears and crocodiles • Relax after the tour at the Indian Ocean resort town Beruwela and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean • Ten nights’ carefully chosen dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation, plus one night on the aircraft • Return flights to Colombo
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,699
OPTIONAL EXCURSION:
• Yala Afternoon Jeep Safari - £75
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £746 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens travelling to Sri Lanka. Current cost is £25 per person.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Beginning in colourful capital Colombo, this fully escorted tour heads, via Pinnawala’s elephant orphanage and Dambulla’s Golden Temple, to ancient Polonnaruwa, then takes in Sigiriya’s ‘Lion Rock’ buttress towering above the jungle. Enjoy a journey into verdant ‘Hill Country’, an unforgettable train to ‘tea capital’ Nuwara Eliya and a safari in the Yala National Park, before a visit to colourful, exotic Galle and a stay in an Indian Ocean beach resort complete a wonderful holiday.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: The Gateway by Taj, Katunayake (night 2) In a coconut plantation bordering a lagoon, this contemporary hotel offers airconditioned rooms. Paradise Resort and Spa, Dambulla (nights 3-4) There’s a large, inviting pool in the lush grounds as well as an openair bar and restaurant. Ozo Hotel, Kandy (night 5)This is a brand new hotel with a variety of restaurants, a gym and a roof-top pool. The Grand, Nuwara Eliya (night 6) In the scenic Blue Mountains, this colonial-style property boasts restaurants and bars, a spa and beautiful gardens. Mandara Rosen, Yala National Park (nights 7-8). Set in shady grounds with a pool and sun terraces.Eden Resort And Spa, Beruwela (nights 9-11) Nestled on the coast and sandy beach at Beruwela.
19
Angkor Thom
The last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire, Cambodia’s Angkor Thom covers an area of 9km2 and is best known for the incredible Angkor Wat complex. Its five great towers and 1,000-metre-long carved bas‑relief. See pages 25 for our tour that visits Angkor Thom
Victoria Falls
One of the Natural Wonders of the World, Zambia’s Victoria Falls bewitch all who cast their eyes upon them. At 100 metres in height and over a mile wide, their indigenous Tonga name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, translates as “The Smoke That Thunders”. You need to see them for yourself to fully appreciate its utter majesty. See page 22 for our tour that visits Victoria Falls
Tiananmen Square
At nearly half-a-million square metres, the scale of Beijing’s Tiananmen Square needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. Named after the Tiananmen (Gate of Heavenly Peace) located to its north, separating it from the Forbidden City, the square contains the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. See pages 26 & 27 for tours that visit Tiananmen Square
Machu Picchu
Located deep in the Peruvian Andes, any sight of glorious ‘Lost City of the Incas’, Machu Pichu is one that will forever be etched on your memory. However, on the final morning of our Peru – Lake Titicaca to Machu Picchu tour, you’ll arrive shortly before sunrise, and watch as the citadel is slowly and surely revealed in the sun’s morning rays. See page 29 for our tour that visits Machu Picchu
Costa Rica
Truly a destination for eco-tourism, Costa Rica is a blissful world of colourful wildlife, towering volcanoes, and lush rainforest. In the company of local experts, we’ll discover beautiful butterfly gardens, enjoy natural thermal baths and take a 1.9km journey crossing eight bridges through the verdant, protected Selvatura Park. See page 28 for our tour that visits Costa Rica
20
Explore Exotic Faraway Places
Join us as we explore further afield and take in lesser-visited parts of the world including Cambodia and Thailand, Peru and South Africa, and China and Costa Rica. It’s an amazing world!
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Take a journey you’ll never forget through one of the world’s most famous game reserves, the mighty Kruger! From the top of your opentopped vehicle there’s every chance you’ll encounter ‘the Big Five’ – lion, buffalo, rhino, leopard and elephant. You’re going to need a big memory card for your camera here! See page 22 for our tour that visits Kruger National Park
Incredible sights await... 21
NEW
Small-Group Tour
Victoria Falls
Under African Skies – £xxx Victoria Falls to Cape Town £2,999
15 ? days from
AVAILABLE:
Wildlife encounters, natural wonders and unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most beautiful corners.
Mar, Apr, Sep to Nov 2018 & Mar 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Stay close to Dr Livingstone’s fabled Victoria Falls • Elephants in Botswana’s Chobe National Park • Winelands walking tour and wine tasting • Enjoy close-up Big 5 wildlife encounters on two safaris • Journey to Knysna on the Garden Route • Lunch under Milkwood Trees at Featherbed Nature Reserve • Visit the ‘Ostrich Capital of the World’ • Visit southerly point, Cape Agulhas • A Cape Point tour includes Boulders’ penguin colony and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens • Table Mountain’s rotating cable car • 12 nights’ carefully chosen bed and breakfast accommodation, plus two nights on the plane • Three lunches and four dinners • Return flights to Livingstone via Nairobi or Johannesburg, returning from Cape Town, via Johannesburg or Amsterdam, and all regional flights
FLY FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,999
OPTIONAL EXCURSION:
• Victoria Falls Sunset Cruise – £89
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £695 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens travelling to Zambia. Current cost is £35 per person.
22
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Join us and fellow like-minded travellers as we embark on a small group tour through southern Africa, visiting some of the continent’s most extraordinary sights. Beginning in Zambia, we’ll marvel at the wondrous Victoria Falls, cross the border into Botswana to go wildlife spotting in Chobe National Park, then fly down to South Africa. Indulge in local vintages in the Cape Winelands, explore the wilderness on sunrise and sunset safaris, travel the stunning Garden Route, and conclude the journey in spectacular Cape Town. Day One Fly overnight from the UK to Livingstone, travelling via Nairobi or Johannesburg. Day Two Upon arrival in Livingstone, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy your first glimpse of the Victoria Falls, where the great Zambezi River plummets into a 100-metre drop. Day Three Spend the day relaxing, or join a wide range of optional activities that reveal the beauty of this wondrous part of the world. A choice of wonderful optional excursions is available to make your stay extra special.
Knysna
Cape Town
Garden Route Game Lodge
Day Four It’s an early start this morning as we cross the border into Botswana to visit Chobe National Park for a morning’s game viewing along the Chobe River. After lunch, enjoy an overland game drive, looking out for herds of elephants, wildebeest and water buffalo. Day Five Fly south to Cape Town and transfer into the verdant Cape Winelands region. Spend the rest of the day exploring Stellenbosch. During your stay, enjoy an included wine tasting at De Zalze Winery. Day Six Enjoy a ‘Bites & Sites’ walking tour of Stellenbosch. Lunch today is included at South Africa’s oldest hotel. This afternoon we’ll take in Franschhoek, a fashionable wine town with Victorian grandeur. Enjoy a guided introduction to the city, and finish the day with a wine tasting and cellar visit. Day Seven Bidding farewell to the Winelands, we’ll travel east to spend two wilderness nights at the Garden Route Game Lodge. In the shadow of the Langeberg Mountains, we’ll head out on safari game drives in search of the Big Five (lion, rhino, elephant, leopard and buffalo), and enjoy evenings of typical African meals and huddling around the authentic Boma (weather permitting). Enjoy the first of the game drives this evening. Day Eight Our second day at the lodge begins with a game drive, followed by a visit to the fascinating reptile centre. A second evening game drive brings another chance to spot the Big Five. Day Nine This morning we’ll travel along the Garden Route to Knysna. The characterful town flaunts Victorian and Georgian architecture. On an included tour we’ll take a ferry across the lagoon to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. We’ll also enjoy a nature drive to Western Head for spectacular views and lunch. Day 10 Today we travel along the breathtaking Outeniqua Mountain Pass, calling at the remarkable Cango. We’ll then continue to arrive in sun-blessed Oudtshoorn, the ‘Ostrich Capital of the World’. This afternoon, we’ll drive across the Swartberg Mountain Pass and conclude with a traditional Braai (barbecue) in the mountains. Day 11 Continuing west, we’ll admire the views from Cape Agulhas, Africa’s southernmost point. We’ll then continue to Arniston, staying in traditional seaside cottages. Experience
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
an authentic taste of life in the Cape this evening as you dine at a fisherman’s cottage. Day 12 Our journey today takes us to Hermanus, and onwards to stunning Cape Town. Few places on Earth can boast such a beautiful setting. This afternoon, enjoy a guided introduction to the city, which includes an ascent of Table Mountain by cable car. Day 13 Today we’ll see Cape Point; the resident penguin colony in the beach resort of Boulders; the botanical gardens at Kirstenbosch; and Hout Bay. Weather permitting, we’ll also travel along beautiful Chapman’s Peak Drive. Day 14 Transfer to the airport for your return overnight flight to the UK. Day 15 Arrive home this morning, at the end of an unforgettable African adventure.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: David Livingstone Safari & Spa, Livingstone (nights 2-4) Hotel on the banks of the Zambezi with wonderful sunset views from its bar/terrace. Kleine Zalze Lodge, Stellenbosch (nights 5-6) Dutch-style lodge surrounded by greenery and vineyards. Garden Route Game Lodge, Albertinia (nights 7-8) Mountain-view game lodge with restaurant & bar, as well as a spa. The Graywood Hotel, Knysna (night 9)Wooden lodge with a pool. Located in the centre of town, close to shops and restaurants. Swartberg Country Manor, Oudtshoorn (night 10) Relaxing hotel set at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains. Arniston Seaside Cottages, Arniston (night 11) Cosy thatched cottages set right by the beach, complete with kitchenette, TV and outside sitting area. Inn on the Square, Cape Town (nights 1213) Centrally located hotel with an outdoor pool and spa, as well as a restaurant and bar.
23
Cape Town
16 days from
£2,399
Classic South Africa
“The whole world in one country” - stunning sights, stirring history, ‘Big Five’ game drives, the Garden Route, the Winelands and beautiful Cape Town. AVAILABLE: Jan to Jun & Sep to Nov 2018, Jan to Mar & May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Experience the traditions of the Lesedi Cultural Village • Visit the Apartheid Museum • Overnight in an authentic Game Lodge • Enjoy a sunset drive, bush walk and full day’s Game Drive in the Kruger National Park • Discover stunning scenery on the panoramic route including famous God’s Window • Visit tiny Swaziland • Learn about the battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift • Journey on the beautiful Garden Route to Knysna • See the Cango Caves and visit an Ostrich Farm • Stay in the heart of the scenic Winelands • Enjoy a wine-tasting tour • Journey through the Cape to Cape Town • 14 nights’ carefully chosen bed and breakfast accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Three dinners and three lunches • Return flights, outbound to Johannesburg, returning from Cape Town via Amsterdam and internal flight between Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth
FLY FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Edinburgh £2,399 • Heathrow £2,399 • Manchester £2,399
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £349
24
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Extraordinary, surprising, incredibly varied and totally absorbing, South Africa is the perfect choice for an escorted tour. Encounter the traditions and cultures of an ancient people before discovering some truly aweinspiring scenery en route to the famous Kruger National Park to search for ‘Big Five’ game. Visit tiny Swaziland and the Zulu War battlegrounds, fly to friendly Port Elizabeth and the exquisite ‘Garden Route’, before the verdant Winelands and glorious Cape Town complete an unforgettable holiday.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Lesedi Cultural Village, near Johannesburg (nights 1-2) Enjoy local traditions in the African bushveld. Shalati Kruger Lodge (night 3) A new property with a pool and separate rooms. Stille Woning Guest Lodge, White River (nights 4-5) Experience a real feel of the ‘veld’ in this hotel with outdoor dining and well appointed bedrooms. Royal Hotel Country Inn, Dundee (nights 6-7) Dating from 1886, the hotel has been nicely restored. Kelway Hotel, Port Elizabeth (night 8) By the beach, this hotel has a restaurant, bar and pool. Graywood Hotel, Knysna (nights 9-10) A wooden lodge in the town centre. Kleine Zalze, Stellenbosch (night 11) Surrounded by greenery, the pool and restaurant offer stunning views. Commodore Hotel, Cape Town (nights 12-14) A traditional property with a pool, gym and restaurant.
Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor National Museum, Cambodia
15 days from
Follow the Mekong –
£1,999
Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam
A colourful ‘journey-of-a-lifetime’ through South East Asia’s verdant lands, crammed with unforgettable ‘must-see, must-do’ highlights.
AVAILABLE:
Nov 2017, Jan, Mar to May, Sep to Nov 2018, Jan, Mar to May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • A guided tour of Bangkok including the Grand Palace • Journey to the Cambodian border and Battambang • Cruise across Tonlé Sap – South East Asia’s ‘Great Lake’ • Two full days’ at Siem Reap include Angkor Wat • Visit and tour of Cambodian capital Phnom Penh • The Mekong River by fast passenger boat • Enjoy the floating market at Cai Rang • Visit famous ‘HCMC’ – the former Saigon • See the Cu Chi tunnel complex, Viet Cong hideaway • 12 nights’ carefully chosen bed and breakfast accommodation, plus two nights on the plane • Dinner on eight nights and six lunches • Flights, via Ho Chi Minh City or Abu Dhabi, to Bangkok, returning from Ho Chi Minh City (via Abu Dhabi in 2018 and 2019 departures)
FLY FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,999 • Manchester £1,999
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS: Thai Dinner Dance – £29, River Kwai & Death Railway – £68, Floating Market & Thai Rose Gardens – £59
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £673 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens
travelling to Cambodia and Vietnam. Current cost to Cambodia is £30 per person and Vietnam is £55 per person.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This wonderful tour begins with the excitement of the Thai capital, a cacophonous, kaleidoscopic wonder – with the chance to visit the River Kwai – before journeying to Cambodia, visiting the Khmer citadel of Angkor Thom and its phenomenal Wat, and the capital Phnom Penh. A scenic boat journey through the Mekong Delta brings you to South Vietnamese capital Ho Chi Minh City – still more usually called Saigon – and a fitting finale to a wonderful tour.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Century Park Hotel, Bangkok (nights 2-4) This central hotel boasts a large pool/ terrace and several bars and restaurants.
Classy Hotel & Spa, Battambang (night 5) Perfectly positioned in the heart of Battambang with a swimming pool. Tara Angkor, Siem Reap (nights 6-8) An oasis in which to relax with an outdoor swimming-pool, spa, fitness centre and two restaurants. Sunway Hotel, Phnom Penh (night 9) A private and calm hideaway. Enjoy a dip in the pool, the poolside bar, and a meal in the hotel restaurant. Victoria Hotel, Chau Doc (night 10) Located deep in the Mekong Delta, the restaurant overlooks the river and there is a bar, outdoor pool and a spa. Victoria Hotel, Can Tho (night 11) On the banks of the Hau River, facilities include a restaurant, bar and spa. Renaissance Riverside Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City (nights 12-13) The hotel has a roof-top pool, gym, bar and a choice of restaurants.
25
Giant Panda Breeding Research Centre
Yangtze River
Tiananmen Gate, Beijing
Classic China & Yangtze River Cruise
16 days from
£2,499
This spellbinding itinerary combines a mesmerising mix of man-made sights both ancient and ultra-modern, and some astounding natural wonders. AVAILABLE: Apr to Jun, Sep to Nov 2018, Apr to Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Explore Shanghai – old and sparkling new • Journey to ancient Suzhou, and enjoy a canal cruise • Experience Beijing – including visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace • See the Great Wall and the Three Gorges Dam • Entrance to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Centre • A guided tour of Xi’an including the Terracotta Army • A high speed train journey from Suzhou to Beijing and from Chongqing to Chengdu • 10 nights’ carefully chosen lunch, bed and breakfast accommodation • Dinner on eight nights including a ‘Peking Duck’ Dinner • A four-night five-star Yangtze cruise in a twin/double outside cabin on a full-board basis with tips included • Porterage included at all hotels and on the cruise • Return flights to Shanghai, and three internal flights in China
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,499
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Peking Opera – £15, Shanghai Nightscape Cruise – £19
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £939 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens travelling to China. Current cost is £151 per person.
26
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Journey from Shanghai’s glass and steel, via classical ‘silk city’ Suzhou, to centuries-old Beijing, before cruising through a land as rich in myth and legend as in startling, spectacular scenery, as the Yangtze, arrested by the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam, plies its ageless course. Laid-back Chengdu, home to Giant Pandas, and ancient Xi’an with its eye-popping Terracotta Army, provide yet more unforgettable sights, before the holiday draws to a close back in Shanghai.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Shanghai Jiulong Hotel, Shanghai (nights 2 & 15) Within walking distance of the riverfront, this hotel has several restaurants and a bar. Soul Hotel, Suzhou (night 3) Perfectly positioned with a choice of restaurants, a bar and a pool. Sunworld Hotel, Beijing (nights 4-6) In the city’s main shopping area and within walking distance of the night food market. Yangtze River Cruise Ship (nights 7-10) Enjoy all the comfort and elegance of river cruising. Yinhe Dynasty, Chengdu (nights 11-12) Centrally located with a restaurant, a bar and a pool. Grand New World Hotel, Xi’an (nights 13-14) Centrally located with a restaurant, a bar and an indoor pool.
NEW Tour
The Forbidden City, Beijing
Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an
The Great Wall
China – Terracotta Warriors, & the Great Wall £1,799
11 days from
A fully escorted tour lifting the veil on a fascinating, mysterious, vast, sweeping country that is rapidly emerging into the 21st Century. AVAILABLE: Mar to Jun, Sep & Nov 2018, Jan, Mar to Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • A guided tour of Shanghai – the Bund, iconic Pearl Tower, the Old City and Yu Yuan Chinese Gardens • Visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven in Beijing • An excursion to the fabled Great Wall • Explore Beijing’s labyrinthine hutongs • A city tour of ancient Xi’an, including a visit to see the extraordinary Terracotta Army • A cruise on the mysterious River Li from Guilin to the river-side town of Yangshuo • Nine nights’ carefully chosen lunch, bed and breakfast accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Six evening meals plus a traditional ‘Peking Duck’ dinner • Return flights and high speed rail journeys in China
FLY FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,799 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Shanghai Evening River Cruise – £19, Peking Opera – £15
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £255 VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required by British Citizens travelling to China. Current cost is £151 per person.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Beginning in fascinating Shanghai, this journey of discovery through this amazing country then heads to Beijing, where the sights and sounds of the capital are revealed. A traditional ‘Peking Duck’ dinner, visits to the Great Wall, Yiheyan’s Summer Palace and the ancient hutongs, and the chance to see the Peking Opera add to the pleasure, before an ultra-modern train whisks you to Xi’an and the legendary Terracotta Army – one of the world’s most extraordinary sights. Continue south to the medieval city of Guilin, joining a cruise through the stunning scenery of the River Li to the thriving resort of Yangshuo.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Shanghai Jiulong Hotel, Shanghai (nights 2 & 10) Close to the Bund and the downtown shopping area, this modern hotel offers restaurants and a bar. Ritan Hotel, Beijing (nights 3-5) Close to many restaurants and opposite the Temple of Sun Park, this modern hotel has two restaurants plus a sauna and spa. Rooms are large and comfortable with a TV, mini-bar and tea/coffee makers. Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel, Xi’an (nights 6-7) Well-located with a restaurant and bar, the hotel has an indoor pool and gym. Universal Hotel, Guilin (night 8) Centrally located on the banks of the River Li. Days Frontier Hotel, Yangshuo (night 9) Close to West Street’s attractions and restaurants.
27
Small-Group Tour
Hanging Bridges
Arenal Volcano
Scarlet Macaws
Costa Rica – Nature’s Paradise
13 ? days days from from
£2, £xxx 699
Eco-friendly wildlife encounters and some of the world’s most colourful birdlife, in its most stunning natural settings. AVAILABLE: Mar, Apr & Sep to Nov 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Fly to cosmopolitan San Jose, the Costa Rican capital • Journey through rainforest by boat to Tortuguero National Park • Encounter Tortuguero’s wildlife from Mawamba Lodge • Late-summer visitors might see Green Turtles nesting • Enjoy dinner on a floating restaurant • Journey back through the jungle to La Fortuna, close to Arenal’s ‘perfect’ volcano • Visit Eco Termales hot springs • See amazing birdlife on a Caño Negro marshland cruise • Selvatura’s Hanging Bridges are rainforest walkways • Spend four nights on the edge of the Pacific Ocean • 11 nights’ carefully chosen bed and breakfast accommodation, plus one night on the aircraft • Five lunches and three dinners, including the floating restaurant dinner in Tortuguero • Return scheduled flights to San Jose
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Gatwick £2,699
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour – from £30, Arenal Volcano Hike – from £22, Forest Canopy Zipline – from £49
SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS: from £806
28
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Discover and explore one of the world’s most breathtaking natural treasure-troves, in its setting between North and South America, and the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Encounter spectacular birdlife, including the vibrant quetzal, as well as three-toed sloths, monkeys and caimans, and between the Caribbean rainforest and the Pacific’s blue waters, explore the canopy of the majestic Cloud Forest and view the famous Arenal volcano. This holiday is less a tour, and more a truly unforgettable experience from beginning to end.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Holiday Inn Aurola, San Jose (night 1) This modern, centrally located, air-conditioned hotel offers three restaurants, including the 17th-floor Mirador, with views out over the city Mawamba Lodge, Tortuguero (nights 2-3) In the exotic Caribbean rainforest in a car-free location, the lodge is the perfect base from which to explore. Arenal Paraiso Hotel & Spa, La Fortuna (nights 4-5) Boasting 13 thermal pools and a spa, with two restaurants including a steak house. El Establo Mountain Hotel, Monteverde (nights 6-7) Affording a breathtaking setting in Monteverde’s Cloud Forest, the hotel is surrounded by acres of rolling hills and pretty gardens. El Parador Hotel, Manuel Antonio (nights 8-11) High above the Pacific Ocean, with a shuttle bus to an idyllic beach, this resort hotel, surrounded by rainforest.
NEW
Floating Islands of Uros
Small-Group Tour
Machu Picchu
Peru - Lake Titicaca to Machu Picchu
13 days from
£2,999
South America’s most fascinating, colourful and cosmopolitan country, and the treasures of the Incas – discovered and explored. AVAILABLE: Sep, Oct 2018 & Apr to Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Enjoy the company of like-minded travellers as you uncover the secrets of one of South America’s most colourful countries • Tour Peru’s capital, Lima – the ‘City of Kings’ • Discover Arequipa and Monasterio Santa Catalina • Spend a day in awe-inspiring Colca Canyon • Cruise Lake Titicaca to the Uros Islands and Taquile • Visit Cuzco – a remarkable living citadel • Visit a local community to learn how they make ceramics, coffee and chocolate • Visit the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo • An unforgettable journey, including narrow gauge train ride, to Machu Picchu – the lost city of the Incas • 11 nights’ carefully chosen bed and breakfast accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Seven lunches and two dinners including a special ‘farewell’ dinner • Return scheduled flights to Lima, via Amsterdam and internal flights from Lima to Arequipa, and from Cuzco to Lima
FLY FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,999
OPTIONAL EXCURSION:
• Return to Machu Picchu – £104
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £499 Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This wonderful Small-Group Tour begins in colonial Lima, Peru’s cultural, culinary and colourfully modern capital. Dazzling ‘white city’ Arequipa and its surrounding volcanoes and canyons, and a stay in Puno, on Lake Titicaca’s shores, bathed in the extraordinary clear light of the high Andes, follow, before you travel north – and back in time – to the magical city of Cuzco, capital of the Inca civilisation, and finally crown an unforgettable trip with a visit to fabled ‘Lost City’ Machu Picchu.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: La Hacienda Miraflores, Lima (nts 1-2) Located in Lima’s Miraflores district, this hotel is within walking distance of shops and restaurants. La Maison D’Elise, Arequipa (nt 3) This charming hotel is a 10-minute walk from the centre and is decorated in a traditional style. Casa Andina, Colca (nt 4) This rustic hotel has a restaurant and cabin-style guest accommodation. Eco Inn, Puno (nts 5-6) A short drive from the centre of Puno, this modern hotel offers views of Lake Titicaca. San Agustin Internacional, Cuzco (nts 7-8 & 11) This modern hotel has a Mediterranean feel. Hotel Casona Yucay, Sacred Valley (nt 9) The hotel stands in attractive grounds surrounded by mountains that shelter the Sacred Valley. El Mapi by Inkaterra, Machu Picchu (nt 10) This contemporary hotel is set in lush surroundings in a hillside location.
29
Québec City
North America’s only walled city, Québec City overlooks the mighty St Lawrence River. Explore its narrow cobbled alleyways of the lower Basse Ville and its upper Haute counterpart, which together form the endlessly enthralling Vieux-Québec, dominated by the monumental Citadelle and the Château Frontenac Hotel. See pages 32 & 36 for tours that visit Québec City
Niagara Falls
Since its formation more than 12,000 years ago, Niagara Falls have been a destination for world explorers, honeymooners and daredevils alike. The Falls were first discovered by French explorer Father Louis Hennepin in December 1678. Today, visitors flock to the region to be awe-inspired by the beauty and power of Niagara. See pages 32 & 36 for tours that visit Niagara Falls
Bears in the Rockies
On any journey through the Rockies, you’ll have the chance to see some wonderful wildlife, including any number of its black or grizzly bears. Often seen by the roadside grazing on dandelion and clover, they make for an impressive sight. As they are known to run as fast as a racehorse, we recommend that you stay on board the bus for your photos! See pages 33 & 38 for tours that include the opportunity to look out for bears in the Rockies
The Rocky Mountaineer ®
Linking Canada’s Pacific coast with the old frontier towns on the eastern slopes of the majestic Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer ® is the ultimate way to enjoy this incredible region. Travelling at a lazy 30mph, you’ll enjoy two days (overnighting in Kamloops) of wonderful scenery – and possibly wildlife – including Mt Robson (the Canadian Rockies’ highest peak), the powerful North Thompson River, Pyramid Falls and the glorious Yellowhead Pass. See page 39 for our tour that includes The Rocky Mountaineer ®
The Inside Passage
Board MS Volendam in Vancouver for this unforgettable journey through Alaska’s Inside Passage. This narrow passage surrounded on both sides by a thickly forested land of mountains and glaciers, and the occasional settlement, is a region that whilst nowhere near as inhospitable as Alaska’s north, is still referred to as ‘the last frontier’! We’ll take you to UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay, Alaskan capital Juneau, and Skagway, formerly the gateway to the Gold Rush town of Klondike. See page 34 for our tour that includes the Inside Passage
30
Canada – a masterpiece of natural beauty
From the cosmopolitan and historic cities of the east to the mountains, lakes and rugged Pacific coastline of the west, Canada’s charms are as varied as they are numerous!
Lake Louise
A short drive from Banff, beautiful Lake Louise has attracted tourists since the Victorian era. Wedged between mountains, and with the Fairmont Hotel at its eastern end, the lake is noted for its vivid turquoise hue, created by glacial dust transported in meltwater from the surrounding peaks and Victoria Glacier. See pages 32-35, 38 & 39 for tours that visit Lake Louise
Discover a land of breathtaking sights... 31
Niagara Falls
Vancouver
Lake Louise
Canada – Niagara Falls to the Rockies
14 days from
£2,049
From Niagara’s tumult and the elegant, historic Eastern cities, through the majestic Rockies to sparkling Vancouver, this is glorious Canada-in-one. AVAILABLE: May, Jun, Sep & Oct 2018, May & Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Free time to enjoy waterfront gem Toronto • A visit to tumultuous Niagara Falls • Enjoy a visit to Ottawa, Canada’s elegant capital • Discover Québec City, North America’s only walled city • Explore Rockies’ capital Banff • Journey via Lake Louise, on the Icefields Parkway • Vancouver – voted ‘best place in the world to live’ • 12 nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Flights to Toronto, returning from Vancouver, and an internal flight from Montréal to Calgary
FLY DIRECT FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,049 (UK connecting flights available call us for details) • Manchester £2,299
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Toronto City Tour – £28, Helicopter Flight over Niagara Falls – £85, Niagara Falls Lunch – £24, Quebec City Guided Tour – £19, Rockies Helicopter Ride – £180, Banff Sightseeing & Sulphur Mountain – £49, Vancouver City Tour and Capilano Suspension Bridge – £84, Vancouver Island Victoria and Butchart Gardens – £123
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £887
32
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Experience the very best of this vast, beautiful country, on a tour that begins in Toronto, takes in plunging Niagara Falls, then heads along the scenic ‘Maple Leaf Trail’ through picture-book Ontario, via elegant Ottawa, to the French Canadian jewels of Montréal and Québec City. You’ll then fly west, to journey through the awe-inspiring Canadian Rockies, where highlights include exquisite Banff, sparkling Lake Louise and historic railroad town Jasper, and on to delightful British Columbia and glittering Vancouver, at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Explore the wonderful city and, on a final optional excursion, visit Vancouver Island and charming Victoria.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Chelsea Hotel, Toronto (nts 1-3)This centrally-located hotel has an indoor pool. Sheraton Centre, Montréal (nts 4-5) Centrally located just a few minutes’ walk from Rue St Catherine, Montréal’s main shopping and dining street. Elk and Avenue Hotel, Banff (nts 6-7) Surrounded by mountain scenery on Banff Avenue, this modern hotel has its own restaurant. Whistlers Inn, Jasper (nt 8) Set on the main street, this hotel has two restaurants. Sun Peaks Lodge, Sun Peaks (nt 9) A cosy mountain retreat in the heart of Sun Peaks. Sandman Suites, Vancouver on Davie (nts 10-12) Overlooking English bay and a ten minute walk from Robson Street, the hotel offers a swimming pool and restaurant.
Butchart Gardens
Lake Louise
11 days from
£1,599
The Canadian Rockies
Make one of the world’s ‘must-do’ journeys through the breathtaking scenery of the Rockies to Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia’s glittering jewels. AVAILABLE: Apr to Jun, Sep & Oct 2018, Apr to Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Enjoy two nights in Banff, the majestic Rockies’ capital • Journey to ‘Gem of the Rockies’ Jasper, via turquoise Lake Louise, on the Icefields Parkway • Overnight in mountain resort Sun Peaks • June and September departures include a ‘Grizzly Bear Valley’ river cruise • Spend two nights in glittering Vancouver – often voted ‘best place in the world to live’ • Cross to pretty Vancouver Island two spend two last nights in provincial capital Victoria • Nine nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Flights to Calgary, returning from Vancouver
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,599 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Banff & Sulphur Mountain Gondola – £49, Banff Helicopter Ride – £180, Jasper Tramway & Sightseeing – £39, Vancouver & Capilano Suspension Bridge – £84, Butchart Gardens – £26, Victoria Whale Watching – from £75
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £499 SPECIAL DEPARTURE:
Calgary Stampede –29 June 2018 & 28 June 2019 from £2,399 Extend your Canadian Rockies holiday by a further three nights as you take in the Calgary Stampede, the world’s most famous rodeo.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Experience the glories of western Canada on this journey through the heart of the majestic Rockies. Crammed each day with unforgettable highlights, the tour takes in majestic Banff, sparkling Lake Louise, historic Jasper and glittering Vancouver, before ending with a stay in Victoria, on delightful Vancouver Island. This popular tour features travel by comfortable coach and excellent hotels throughout. There’s so much to enjoy, including a journey along the renowned Icefields Parkway, past the awesome Columbia Icefield and a drive along the scenic Yellowhead Highway.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Elk and Avenue Hotel, Banff (nights 1-2) Surrounded by mountain scenery in the heart of downtown. Whistlers Inn, Jasper (nights 3-4) On the main street of this charming mountain township. Sun Peaks Lodge, Sun Peaks (night 5) A cosy mountain retreat in the heart of Sun Peaks. Sandman Suites Vancouver on Davie (nights 6-7) Overlooking English Bay and within a ten minute walk to Robson Street. All rooms are equipped with full kitchens and a balcony. The Embassy Inn, Victoria (nights 8-9) This welcoming hotel is superbly located just a few steps from Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour, and boasts a restaurant and outdoor pool.
33
Five-Star Alaska Cruise & the Canadian Rockies
16 ? days from
£2,499 £xxx
An unforgettable tour and cruise showcasing some of North America’s – and indeed the world’s – most breathtaking wonders of nature. AVAILABLE: May, Jun & Sep 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • A seven-night cruise with Holland America Line exploring UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay and the scenic Inside Passage and visits to Juneau, remote Skagway and colourful Ketchikan • Explore Banff, the stunning capital of the Rockies • Scenic touring through the Rockies via Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway stopping overnight in Jasper • Discover glittering Vancouver • Seven nights’ carefully chosen hotel accommodation on a room-only basis • Seven nights’ sharing a twin/double inside stateroom on board a five-star Holland America Line cruise ship on a full-board basis • Flights to Calgary, returning from Vancouver
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,499
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Banff Sightseeing Tour & Sulphur Mountain Cable-Car – £49, Rockies Helicopter Ride – £180, Vancouver City Tour & Capilano Suspension Bridge – £84, Vancouver Island, Victoria & the Butchart Gardens – £123
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Available on request. PLUS ROCKY MOUNTAINEER® UPGRADE: On selected dates, upgrade your tour and travel on board the legendary Rocky Mountaineer®. Please call us for details.
34
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
The undoubted highlight of this extraordinary holiday will be a seven-night voyage through the fabled ‘Inside Passage’ to wild, remote Alaska, on board a superbly appointed, five-star Holland America Line cruise ship. Join the vessel in Vancouver after enjoying a spectacular journey through the Rocky Mountains, and return to discover the glittering waterfront city at the end of the holiday. Flying to ‘Stampede’ town Calgary, you’ll head into the majestic Rockies, spending two nights in famous Banff, in its breathtaking setting, taking in spectacular Lake Louise, and travelling on the famous Icefields Parkway to historic railroad town Jasper. Continue on for an overnight stay in mountain resort Sun Peaks, then journey down to Vancouver and the cruise. Enjoy all the comforts of your stateroom, fine food and the ship’s amenities, and call at some of Alaska’s fascinating settlements. Discover surprisingly stylish state capital Juneau, Yukon gateway Skagway and colourful Ketchikan, and sail into UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay. The final three-night stay in Vancouver, a place often voted ‘the best place in the world to live’, includes the chance on an optional tour to visit beautiful Vancouver Island and its unashamedly British provincial capital, Victoria, as well as the world famous Butchart Gardens.
Jasper National Park
Mount Rundle, Banff
Vancouver
YOUR TOURING HOTELS:
Cruise on board MS Volendam MS Volendam boasts beautiful public areas, including luxurious lounges, stylish bars, a wide selection of dining rooms, and show lounges offering first-class entertainment, as well as leisure amenities that include pools and health and fitness facilities. She is classified as a ‘mid-sized’ vessel, and there are plenty of quiet corners in which to curl up with a book. The ports of call that form the Alaskan itinerary will no doubt be amongst the highlights of the holiday, and whether you choose to step ashore and explore under your own steam, or join the optional shore excursions accompanied by guides who will bring to life the extraordinary places you’ll encounter, each day will bring treasured memories.
Elk and Avenue Hotel
nights 1-2
Banff
Surrounded by mountain scenery in the heart of downtown on Banff Avenue, this modern hotel has its own restaurant, bar and gift shop.
Whistlers Inn
night 3
Jasper
Set in an enviable position, on the main street of this charming mountain township, this hotel has two restaurants, a pub and an outdoor hot tub.
Sun Peaks Lodge
night 4
Sun Peaks
A cosy mountain retreat within strolling distances of bars and restaurants, the welcoming rooms offer a TV, fridge and tea/coffee-making facilities.
Sandman Hotel City Centre
nights 12-14
Vancouver
Nestled right in the heart of Downtown Vancouver, this hotel offers a pub-style bar, restaurant, indoor pool and very comfortable guest rooms.
Cruise on board MS Volendam
nights 5-11
The price of your holiday includes shared accommodation in a comfortable, well appointed two-berth Inside Stateroom (Category L) with a TV and shower. Alternative inside staterooms are available, or if you are looking for views of the awe-inspiring Alaska scenery, we do recommend upgrading your cruise to an outside stateroom or Verandah Suite. Outside Staterooms – These staterooms, with a panoramic window, give you the chance to rest and relax and take in the view from the privacy of your own stateroom, perhaps watching the sun rise or set over majestic glaciers, or watching the approach to a new port of call. Facilities are similar to inside staterooms but with most offering a bathtub. Verandah Suites – For the ultimate view, take advantage of a luxurious suite, from which you can watch the day unfold from your own private balcony. These beautiful staterooms also benefit from a separate seating area, mini-bar, refrigerator and floor-to-ceiling French windows leading out to the verandah.
MS Volendam
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
35
Niagara Falls
10 ? days from
£xxx Canada’s Maple Leaf Trail £1,299
This ever-popular escorted tour includes a visit to incomparable Niagara, and showcases the best of Canada’s eastern cities and surrounding countryside. AVAILABLE: May, Jun, Sep & Oct 2018, May & Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Gaze in awe at tumultuous Niagara Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world • Discover waterfront Toronto with its sky-piercing CN Tower • Leisurely stays in Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa and Montréal, staying in excellent hotels with plenty of time to explore • Travel the ‘Maple Leaf Trail’ through stunning scenery • Explore Victorian Ottawa, the elegant Canadian capital set beneath the Gatineau Hills • Journey into the French Canadian province of Québec • Stay in stylish, sophisticated Montréal • Charming, UNESCO-listed Québec City overlooks the mighty St Lawrence River • Eight nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the aircraft • Return flights to Toronto
FLY DIRECT FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Gatwick £1,299 • Manchester £1,349
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Niagara Falls Lunch – £24, Helicopter Flight over Niagara Falls – £85, Toronto Guided City Tour – £28, Montréal City Tour – £22, Maple Delights and Dinner in Old Montréal – £34, Québec City Guided Tour – £19
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £513
36
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
One of the world’s greatest natural wonders, some memorably scenic journeys and a quartet of stunning, contrasting cities guarantee the enduring appeal of this fully escorted tour. Beginning with Niagara’s tumult, you then take in warm and welcoming waterfront Toronto with its sky-piercing CN Tower, Canada’s historic capital Ottawa, on the Rideau Canal, glorious Montréal, French Canada’s capital of style, and finally picturesque Québec City, North America’s only walled settlement, where the New World still resembles the Old. Day One Fly to Toronto, meet your tour manager and transfer to your hotel in Niagara Falls for a two-night stay. The colourful, relaxed resort offers a host of diversions, and you’ll find many restaurants, bars and shops in addition to the magnetic, mesmerising draw of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Formed at the point where the Niagara River, which divides Canada and the USA, plunges over precipices in two spectacular cascades – the Horseshoe and the American - the Falls are a wonder to behold. Day Two Enjoy another day in Niagara Falls, perhaps embarking the Hornblower Niagara cruise for a spray-soaked passage close to the foot of the torrent or for a bird’s eye view of the magnificent Falls. Day Three This morning join an exciting optional Helicopter Ride over Niagara Falls, before departing for the exquisite town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of Canada’s oldest settlements and home to the renowned Shaw Festival. Continue on to Toronto, on the shore of Lake Ontario, for a two-night stay. Toronto is divided into several distinct ‘neighbourhoods’ – reflecting the city’s extraordinary mix of ethnic origins. During your tour you’ll see Chinatown, Greektown, Little India
Québec City
Ottawa
and Little Italy well as Victorian Cabbagetown and stylish Yorkville. Modern Toronto is best reflected in the stunning developments along the Lake Ontario Waterfront area, in its glitzy shopping malls and of course in the CN Tower. Enjoy a first evening in this wonderful lakefront city, with its 11 kilometres of interconnected, climate-controlled shopping and entertainment malls. Day Four Enjoy a free day’s rest and relaxation in Toronto, making the most of your time in the city. Those with a head for heights might head for the CN Tower, where the very brave can brave the stomach-churning EdgeWalk or watch others ‘enjoying’ it; stroll the waterfront promenade or laze on the city’s beaches; head for one of a host of fine museums and galleries, visit historic Fort York, one of Canada’s most important battlefield sites, take in the neoGothic wonders of the landmark Casa Noma ‘castle’, or ‘shop till you drop’ at the Eaton Centre. Day Five This morning you’ll head along the ‘Maple Leaf Trail’, travelling first along Lake Ontario’s northern shore, past attractive Kingston, gateway to the ‘Thousand Islands’ and the St Lawrence River, to overnight in romantic Ottawa, Canada’s beautiful administrative capital, with its Victorian houses, Grand Parliament buildings and famous Rideau Canal set against the leafy background of the Gatineau Hills. Day Six After a relaxed morning and the chance to explore elegant Ottawa, re-board the coach to journey on into the great French-Canadian province of Québec and to Montréal to enjoy a three-night stay in this undisputed centre of style and sophistication. Day Seven Get to know this engaging city on this morning’s optional Guided Tour, which will take in the pretty Vieux Port area and the lively Plateau Mont Royal. Montréal boasts cutting edge modernity as well as French style and flair, and is a cosmopolitan mélange of high culture, high fashion and high tech, its waterfront rivalling Vancouver’s for glass and steel architectural marvels, contrasting with the bohemian groove of trendy Plateau Mont Royal and the cobblestones of Vieux Montréal. Day Eight Today brings a fitting finale to the Maple Leaf Trail, with a last included excursion, to historic Québec City, North America’s only walled settlement, forever associated
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Toronto
with the exploits of General Woolf. Explore the narrow, cobbled alleyways of the lower Basse Ville and its upper Haute counterpart, which together form the endlessly enthralling, UNESCO-listed Vieux-Québec, dominated by the monumental Citadelle and the Château Frontenac hotel. At the end of a wonderful day you’ll return to Montréal to enjoy your last evening in the city. Day Nine Today you’ll make the scenic journey back into Ontario, travelling round the lake to Toronto Airport for your return overnight flight to the UK. Day 10 Arrive back in the UK, at the end of a truly unforgettable holiday.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Sheraton on the Falls
nights 1-2
Niagara Falls
Ideally located next to Niagara Falls, this resort hotel boasts spectacular views of the falls and offers a huge array of on-site amenities.
Chelsea Hotel
nights 3-4
Toronto
Centrally located in downtown Toronto, with the Eaton Centre and many of Toronto’s popular entertainment venues and restaurants within walking distance.
Sheraton Ottawa
night 5
Ottawa
Well placed for city sightseeing with the Parliament Buildings , Byward Market and the Rideau Canal less than a ten minute walk away.
Sheraton Centre
nights 6-8
Montréal
Centrally located just a few minutes’ walk from Rue St Catherine, Montréal’s main shopping and dining street.
37
NEW Tour
VIA Rail’s Skeena Train
Jasper National Park
Rockies Rail Adventure & the Inside Passage
16 days from
£3,199
Uncover the glories of Western Canada on this ultimate tour taking in some of North America’s greatest natural wonders and some exquisite cities.
AVAILABLE:
Jun to Aug 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Discover Vancouver’s glittering waterfront • Explore pretty provincial capital Victoria • Pacific Rim National Park – one of Canada’s natural treasures • Day cruise across the breathtaking Inside Passage • Unforgettable two-day Skeena VIA Rail train journey • Enjoy a two-night stay in Jasper • Journey to Banff, via Lake Louise, on the Icefields Parkway • Stay in Banff, the majestic Rockies’ capital • 14 nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Touring Class travel on VIA Rail’s Skeena Train, including two breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner • Flights to Vancouver, returning from Calgary
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £3,199 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Vancouver City Tour & Capliano Suspension Bridge - £84, Butchart Gardens - £26, Victoria Whale Watching - £81, Bear Watching in Tofino - £59, Jasper Tramway & Sightseeing - £39, Banff & Sulphur Mountain - £49, Banff Helicopter Flight - £180
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £1,293
38
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This very special tour combines the glitz and glitter of Vancouver, and the unashamedly ‘British’ charms of Victoria, before heading through stunning Vancouver Island, with its towering firs and salmon fisheries and cruising across the fabled, mountain-fringed Inside Passage back to the mainland. An unforgettable, two-day scenic rail journey aboard VIA Rail’s Skeena Train brings you into the heart of the Rockies, where historic Jasper, breathtaking Lake Louise and delightful mountain capital Banff are the final crowning glories.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Sandman Suites on Davie, Vancouver (nts 1-2) Within a ten minute walk of Robson Street. The Embassy Inn, Victoria (nts 3-4) Located just a few steps from Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour. Best Western Tin Wis, Tofino (nts 5-6) Set within beautifully landscaped grounds. Coast Discovery Inn, Campbell River (nt 7) Set in the heart of downtown near the marina. Various, Port Hardy (nt 8) & Prince Rupert (nt 9) We use three-star hotels with dining available in the hotel or close by. The hotel will be named closer to your departure. Coast Inn of the North, Prince George (nt 10) In the heart of downtown, close to many restaurants and bars. Whistlers Inn, Jasper (nts 11-12) Located on the main street and has two restaurants and a pub. Elk and Avenue Hotel, Banff (nts 13-14) In the heart of downtown on Banff Avenue, and has its own restaurant.
NEW Tour
Icefields Parkway
© 2004 Scott Rowed / Rocky Mountaineer
Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer ®
11 days from
£2,699
Experience some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, by road and famous rail, and discover the best of glorious British Columbia.
AVAILABLE:
Apr to Jun, Sep & Oct 2018, Apr to Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Enjoy two nights in Banff, the majestic Rockies’ capital • Visit Jasper and Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway • Board the Rocky Mountaineer® train for the scenic journey from Jasper, via Kamloops, to Vancouver • Spend two nights in glittering Vancouver – often voted ‘best place in the world to live’ • Cross to pretty Vancouver Island to spend two nights in provincial capital Victoria • Nine nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the plane • SilverLeaf® Service travel on Rocky Mountaineer® from Jasper to Vancouver (with the opportunity to upgrade to GoldLeaf® Service for a supplement) • Breakfast and lunch on board Rocky Mountaineer® • Flights to Calgary, returning from Vancouver
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,699 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Banff & Sulphur Mountain Cable-Car – £49, Banff Helicopter Ride – £180, Jasper Tramway & Sightseeing – £39, Vancouver City Tour and Capilano Suspension Bridge – £84, Butchart Gardens – £26, Victoria Whale Watching – from £75
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £533 ROCKY MOUNTAINEER® GOLDLEAF® UPGRADE:
This breathtaking journey through Western Canada begins in Banff, the Canadian Rockies’ majestic capital, before heading via sparkling Lake Louise to historic railroad town Jasper, gateway to its National Park. After the chance to explore, board the famous Rocky Mountaineer® train for the scenic journey to glittering Vancouver, at the edge of the ocean, and one of North America’s most attractive cities. Complete the adventure in more-British-than-Britain provincial capital Victoria, on Vancouver Island, perhaps crowning the tour with a visit to world-famous Butchart Gardens.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS & ROCKY MOUNTAINEER® JOURNEY: Elk and Avenue Hotel, Banff (nts 1-2) See page 33. Whistlers Inn, Jasper (nts 3-4) See page 33. Various, Kamloops (nt 5) Accommodation is arranged by Rocky Mountaineer® and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant nearby. Sandman Suites Vancouver Davie (nts 6-7) See page 33. The Embassy Inn, Victoria (nts 8-9) See page 33. Rocky Mountaineer® Two-day journey travelling in SilverLeaf® Service which includes a hot breakfast, lunch, snacks and complimentary beverages including tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer and wine.
from £429 per person. Please call for further details.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
39
New Orleans’ French Quarter
Centred around ‘The Big Easy’s’ Jackson Square, the instantly recognisable time-warped French Quarter, with its iron-balconied buildings is home to a wealth of atmospheric bars and restaurants whose patrons are fully encouraged to let their hair down and enjoy classic creole dishes and an assortment of colourful cocktails! See pages 42, 44 & 45 for tours that visit New Orleans
Graceland
A place of pilgrimage for true fans of ‘The King’, Graceland was Elvis’s beloved home from 1957 until his death 20 years later. Now a museum, complete with the famous Jungle Room, Graceland is one of America’s most popular tourist destinations and was designated with National Historic Landmark status in 2006. See pages 42, 44 & 45 for tours that visit Graceland
New England’s Fall Colours
One of Mother Nature’s most dazzling displays, the autumn leaves of New England attract visitors from far and wide. Soak up the beauty (both natural and manmade) of this region as we discover rolling forested hills, majestic mountains and picture book villages in all their glory. See pages 51, 52 & 53 for tours that visit New England in autumn
Las Vegas
Nothing prepares you for the glitz, glamour and sheer scale of this monument to man’s capacity for fun and imagination. Rising like a neon iceberg from the desert floor, its towering hotels and gargantuan casinos reaching skywards, and its streets – including the famous ‘Strip’ – are lined with colourful entertainment centres, themed bars and show lounges that have been home to some of the biggest names in show-business. See pages 54 & 55 for tours that visit Las Vegas
The Grand Canyon
Cast your eyes on this breathtaking abyss in the middle of the Nevada Desert. It is truly an eye-popping sight that will live with you forever. Formed by the Colorado River over the millennia, this wonderful sight can be enjoyed at sunrise or sunset on an optional excursion by helicopter. See pages 54 & 55 for tours that visit the Grand Canyon
40
The awe-inspiring USA! From sea to shining sea, and including a host of ‘must-see, must-do’ highlights, the USA offers the very best of Mother Nature’s wonders and man-made marvels!
New York City
The city that never sleeps, with iconic sights at almost every turn, New York City exhausts superlatives. Marvel at the towering skyscrapers, head for the haven of serenity that is Central Park, fill yourself to bursting at incredible restaurants & delis, or take the credit card to Bloomingdales or Macy’s for some retail therapy. ‘The Big Apple’ offers it all and more! See pages 47, 52 & 53 for tours that visit New York
There’s so much to choose from... 41
Graceland ©EPE inc.
Elvis Presley’s Memphis, New Orleans & Nashville
9 days from
£1,349
Journey through America’s musical heartland, from the birthplace of jazz and the cradle of rock ‘n’ roll, to the undisputed capital of Country Music. AVAILABLE: Dec 2017, Jan to Jun, Aug to Dec 2018, Jan to May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Montgomery, resting place of country legend Hank Williams • Journey through the sleepy countryside of Alabama • Spend two nights in New Orleans, the irrepressible, colourfully exuberant and laid-back ‘Big Easy’ and birthplace of jazz • Take in the atmosphere of the fabled ‘French Quarter’ • Visit Tupelo, Mississippi – Elvis’ birthplace • Spend two nights in Memphis at the brand new Guest House™ at Graceland, right next to Elvis’ famous mansion • Discover Nashville, world capital of Country Music • Seven nights’ carefully chosen hotel accommodation on a room-only basis • Return flights to Atlanta
FLY DIRECT FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,379 • Manchester £1,349
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Steamboat Dinner Jazz Cruise – £69, New Orleans City Tour – £21, Bayou & Alligators Tour – £25, Memphis: Graceland & Sounds of the South – £67, Studio B & the Country Music Hall of Fame – £43
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £390
42
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Infused with the magic and mystique, the sights and especially the sounds of the South, this wonderful holiday begins in Georgia and sweeps through the world of WC Handy, Robert Johnson, ‘Fats’ Domino, Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton and, of course, Elvis Presley. Crammed full of highlights, it takes in New Orleans, the laid-back ‘Big Easy’, Tupelo, the ‘King’s’ birthplace and Memphis, where he made his home, and finally heads to guitar-pickin’, banjo-playin’ songwriters’ Mecca Nashville, Tennessee. Day One Fly to Atlanta, and upon arrival, meet your tour manager to transfer to your overnight hotel in the Alabama state capital, Montgomery, birthplace of troubled country superstar Hank Williams. Rest and relax after the journey, and enjoy your first evening in the warm and welcoming musical south. Day Two Today you’ll head south across Alabama, into Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast to the great city of New Orleans, the fabled ‘Big Easy’, for a two-night stay. Waste no time in soaking up the atmosphere of one of the most exuberant places on the face of the planet, perhaps joining the optional Steamboat Dinner Jazz Cruise. Day Three This morning’s optional guided tour is the perfect introduction to New Orleans, and will include the fabled French Quarter of time-warped, iron-balconied buildings centred on Jackson Square, and the neighbouring colourful Tremé district. This afternoon, take the optional Louisiana Swampland excursion for a glimpse of the surrounding countryside and a taste of Creole life. Head back to the ‘Quarter’ tonight, to immerse yourself in the incomparable atmosphere of the place which gave the world Jazz Music a century ago, and where the legacy of Louis Armstrong and ‘King’ Oliver lives on in innumerable bars and clubs.
Nashville
Beale Street, Memphis © Dan Ball
© Elvis Presley Enterprises, inc.
Jackson Square, New Orleans
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Day Four Bidding farewell to New Orleans, you’ll travel north into Mississippi, cradle of Delta blues and home to the likes of Robert Johnson and Sonny Boy Williamson, journeying to Tupelo, home of the tiny house into which Elvis Aaron Presley was born in January, 1935 (entrance payable). You’ll then continue on to Elvis’ beloved hometown Memphis, the bustling city on the bank of the ‘Big Muddy’, which as well being forever linked with ‘The King’, boasts a musical heritage to match any city in the world. This evening, soak up the atmosphere of colourful Beale Street with its endless choice of restaurants and bars, many of which offer live music. Day Five Don’t miss the optional full day Memphis Sounds excursion, which will include the legendary Sun Studio, where in 1951 ‘rock ‘n’ roll’ was born with the recording of ‘Rocket 88’, and history changed forever three years later with Elvis’ rendition and ‘live’ recording of Arthur Crudup’s ‘That’s Alright, Mama’. You’ll then make your way to Elvis Presley Boulevard to pay a visit to Graceland, the King’s home, last recording studio and final resting place. After a fascinating day, enjoy another evening in Memphis, perhaps sampling pork ribs – the city is known as the ‘Barbecue Capital of America’. Day Six Enjoy today’s change of musical genres, as you journey east to Nashville - capital of country music, for a two night stay. Home to the legendary Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry, and to scores of hugely accomplished guitar-pickers and songwriters, Nashville is every inch one of America’s foremost music cities. Tonight, perhaps catch some live music. Day Seven An optional excursion will introduce you to the legendary Studio B – home to countless country hits and a galaxy of Elvis’ RCA recordings and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring the musical delights of Nashville further.
Country Inn & Suites
night 1
East Montgomery
This popular, modern hotel has a pool and a choice of restaurants nearby. Breakfast is served in the hotel and the welcoming guest rooms have a TV.
Hampton Inn
nights 2-3
New Orleans
Set in a beautifully converted warehouse, within a 15-minute walk from the French Quarter and a large shopping mall, this hotel offers a breakfast room and small outdoor pool. All rooms have a TV, coffeemaking facilities and a small fridge.
The Guest HouseTM at Graceland Memphis nights 4-5 The brand new Guest HouseTM at Graceland, just a few steps from the mansion is inspired by the warm hospitality Elvis always showed his guests. You’ll find two restaurants, a bar, theatre, gift shop and grocery store plus a seasonal outdoor pool. Contemporary rooms come well equipped and there is a reasonably priced shuttle service to Beale Street.
Clarion Hotel Stadium
nights 6-7
Nashville
This impressive modern hotel boasts a restaurant, pub and indoor pool. All rooms have a fridge and microwave.
Day Eight Journey south on a scenic drive to Chattanooga of ‘Choo-Choo’ fame, a quintessential southern trading town, before heading to Atlanta airport for your return overnight flight. Day Nine Arrive back in the UK, after a wonderful journey through America’s musical heritage.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
43
Beale Street, Memphis
MS Carnival Dream
Deep South Rhythms, New £xxx Orleans & Caribbean Cruise £2,149
16 ? days from
A journey through America’s musical heartland, including Nashville, Memphis and the ‘Big Easy’, combined with a sun-kissed Caribbean & Gulf of Mexico cruise. AVAILABLE: Feb, Apr, Sep & Oct 2018, Mar 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Spend a night in the original ‘Chattanooga Choo-Choo’ station hotel • Discover Nashville, world capital of Country Music • Visit Memphis, Tennessee, home to the ‘King’ • Visit Tupelo, Mississippi – Elvis’ birthplace • Spend two nights in New Orleans, the ‘Big Easy’ • Take in the atmosphere of the fabled ‘French Quarter’ • Cruise includes three port calls with full days in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel in Mexico • Spend the last night in Montgomery, Alabama • Seven nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on a plane • Seven-night full-board cruise on-board MS Carnival Dream, sharing a twin inside stateroom with tips included • Return flights to Atlanta
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,149
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Studio B & the Country Music Hall of Fame – £43, Memphis: Graceland & Sounds of the South – £67, New Orleans City Tour - £21, Bayou & Alligators Tour - £25, Steamboat Dinner Jazz Cruise – £69
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Available on request
44
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This fully escorted tour takes in guitar-pickers’ Mecca Nashville, the capital of Country Music, Memphis, with a stay at The Guest House™ at Graceland, steps from Elvis’ beloved home, and the chance to visit the mansion and Sun Studios, Tupelo, the ‘King’s’ birthplace, and laid-back New Orleans, the ‘Big Easy’ cradle of the blues and Dixieland jazz. A wonderful holiday is completed with a relaxing eight-day cruise aboard well-appointed Carnival Dream, taking in the sun-blessed resorts of Mexico and the Caribbean, including Jamaica’s sparkling Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, and island resort Cozumel, before a last night on the Gulf Coast.
Choo Choo Hotel, Chattanooga (nt 1) A renowned southern landmark, this hotel has seven bars and restaurants. Clarion Hotel Stadium, Nashville (nt 2) This hotel boasts a restaurant, pub and indoor pool. The Guest HouseTM at Graceland, Memphis (nts 3-4) See page 43. Various, New Orleans (nts 5-6). Hotels include Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter or Hampton Inn Convention Centre. MS Carnival Dream (nts 7-13). A holiday destination in her own right! There is a selection of bars with live music, several pools, a fitness centre and casino. Hampton Inn & Suites, Montgomery (nt 14). Set in an old bank building and full of character.
Graceland
Riverwalk, San Antonio
Fort Worth Stock Yards
Texas, Presley’s Memphis £2,299 & New Orleans
16 days from
An extraordinary journey through the southern states, crammed with fascinating musical highlights and interest from beginning to end. AVAILABLE: Apr, May, Sep & Oct 2018, Mar to May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Spend two nights in New Orleans, the ‘Big Easy’ • Take in the atmosphere of the fabled ‘French Quarter’ • Visit the historic Oak Alley Plantation • Visit Houston, home to the NASA Space Center and ‘The Alamo’, and explore historic Dallas • San Antonio is capital of ‘Tex-Mex’ culture • Colourful Austin is Texas’ music capital • Catch a ‘cattle drive’ at the Fort Worth Stockyards • Memphis, Tennessee was home to Elvis Presley • Entrance to Sun Studios and Elvis’ beloved Graceland • Enjoy the atmosphere on Memphis’ Beale Street • Discover Nashville, world capital of Country Music • 14 nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Return flights to Atlanta
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £2,299 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Steamboat Dinner Jazz Cruise – £69, New Orleans City Tour – £21, Bayou & Alligator Tour – £25, Bat Watching Sunset Cruise – £12, Studio B & Country Music Hall of Fame – £43
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £939 Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Combining the magic and musical wonders of the ‘Southland’ with the ‘Big Country’ sights and sounds of Lone Star State Texas, this wonderful escorted tour, where each day brings a host of new delights, takes in Jazz City New Orleans, Space City Houston and Tex-Mex capital San Antonio, visits colourful, Bohemian Austin, ‘cattle-town’ Forth Worth and oil-rich Dallas, before ending with two of America’s greatest music cities, Elvis’ beloved Memphis and Country Music capital Nashville.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Hampton Inn & Suites, Montgomery (night 1) This downtown hotel is full of character. Wyndham French Quarter, New Orleans (nights 2-3) A modern hotel set in the French Quarter. Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, Lake Charles (night 4) Stay on the contraband Bayou waterfront. Hyatt Regency, Houston Galleria (night 5) This new hotel is next to the shopping and entertainment district. Crockett Hotel, San Antonio (nights 6-7) This hotel is across from the Alamo. Holiday Inn Town Lake, Austin (night 8) This hotel has an outdoor pool. Hyatt Place Historic Stockyards, Fort Worth (nights 9-10) Walk right out from this hotel into the lively action of the Stockyards. Holiday Inn Conference Center, Little Rock (night 11) This hotel has an outdoor pool. The Guest House™ at Graceland, Memphis (nights 12-13) Stay just a few steps from Elvis’ home. Millenium Maxwell House, Nashville (night 14) Perfectly located, with restaurants close by.
45
Memorial at the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas
Austin, Texas
Texas – the Lone Star State
10 ? days from
£1,499 £xxx
A perfect introduction to the colourful sights, enthralling sounds and compelling culture and history of America’s ‘Big Country’. AVAILABLE: Mar, May, Sep to Nov 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Fly into glittering ‘space city’ Houston • Enjoy two nights in ‘cowboy town’ Fort Worth • Catch a ‘cattle drive’ at the Stockyards • Explore historic Dallas • Colourful Austin is Texas’ music capital • San Antonio is capital of ‘Tex-Mex’ culture • Relive the heroics of Davy Crockett at ‘The Alamo’ • Visit Houston’s world-famous NASA Space Centre • Explore Houston’s futuristic Galleria Mall • Eight nights’ carefully chosen room-only accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Return scheduled flights to Houston
FLY DIRECT FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,699 • Manchester £1,499
OPTIONAL EXCURSION:
• Bat-Watching Sunset Cruise – £12
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £629
46
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Discover and explore the second-largest state in the Union on a tour that combines the Space Age modernity of Houston with Chisholm Trail-start-point Fort Worth, historic, oil-rich Dallas, colourful, Bohemian State capital Austin, and ‘Tex-Mex’ cradle San Antonio, site of the legendary ‘Alamo’. Enjoy the delights of this unique corner of America, where fiercely proud Texans revel in their good fortune, and reserve a warm and - inevitably - big Texan welcome for all visitors.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Hyatt Place Woodlands, Houston (night 1)North of Houston, this is an ideal base for your first night’s stay. There is a restaurant, a bar, an outdoor salt water swimming pool and a gym. Hyatt Place Historic Stockyards, Fort Worth (nights 2-3) Walk right out from this hotel into the lively action of the Stockyards. Holiday Inn Town Lake, Austin (night 4)Located in downtown Austin, this hotel has a restaurant, gym and outdoor pool. Crockett Hotel, San Antonio (nights 5-6)This is a historic hotel in the heart of the city across from the Alamo and the famous Riverwalk. Hyatt Regency, Houston Galleria (nights 7-8). A new hotel next door to the Galleria, Houston’s shopping, dining and entertainment district. This hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym and outdoor pool with deck.
New York Skyline
Niagara Falls
White House, Washington DC
Washington, New York & Niagara Falls £1,299
10 days from
Discover a trio of historic, enthralling American cities, and one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. AVAILABLE: May & Jun, Sep & Oct 2018, Apr to Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Enjoy stays close to extraordinary Niagara Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world • Travel south from Canada to historic Gettysburg • Spend a day in all-powerful Washington DC, home to the White House and Capitol Hill • Discover Philadelphia, historic ‘Freedom City’ where American Independence was declared • Explore New York, one of the most exciting cities on Earth, with its famous skyline • Journey through forested, up-state New York • Eight nights’ carefully chosen hotel accommodation in a twin/double room on a room-only basis, plus one night on the plane • Return scheduled flights to Toronto
FLY DIRECT FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Gatwick £1,299 • Manchester £1,329
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Washington City Tour – £29, Manhattan City Tour & Top of the Rock – £45, Helicopter over Niagara Falls – £85, Niagara Falls Lunch – £24
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £445
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This wonderful - and wonderful value - escorted tour sees you fly to Toronto on the shore of vast Lake Ontario to catch a brief glimpse of Niagara, before heading south into the heart of historic America. Throughout your holiday you’ll be accompanied by a friendly and knowledgeable tour manager who will bring to life the sights and history of this very special corner of North America. You’ll discover and explore the original capital Philadelphia, ‘City of Brotherly Love’, enjoy an optional guided tour of the modern seat of US - and western - power, Washington DC, and visit breathless Manhattan, New York, before returning once more to Niagara’s plunging waters for a final night.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Sheraton on the Falls, Niagara Falls (nights 1, 7-8) Located adjacent to the Falls, this hotel has two restaurants, a bar, spa and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Wyndham Hotel, Gettysburg (night 2) This modern hotel has two restaurants, contemporary guest rooms and an indoor swimming pool. Doubletree by Hilton, Tyson’s Corner (nights 3-4) Adjacent to Tyson’s Corner shopping mall, this hotel has a fitness centre, a bar and two restaurants. Holiday Inn, Hasbrouck Heights (nights 5-6) Across the Hudson River from Manhattan, this popular hotel features a bar and restaurant.
47
New York Skyline
East Coast Extravaganza – £1, £xxx 699 USA & Canada
14 ? days from
Some of North America’s greatest cities, some glorious countryside and one of nature’s greatest wonders, brought thrillingly to life. AVAILABLE: Nov 2017, May, Sep to Oct 2018, May & Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Explore elegant, historic Boston • Stay in stylish and sophisticated Montréal • Enjoy a day in beautiful, walled Québec City • Overnight in Canada’s leafy capital Ottawa • Visit glittering Toronto on the shore of Lake Ontario • Gaze in awe at tumultuous Niagara Falls • Discover mesmerising, pulsating New York City • Pay a short visit to Philadelphia – ‘City of Brotherly Love’ • Spend a day in all-powerful Washington, DC • 12 nights’ carefully chosen hotel accommodation on a room-only basis, plus one night on the plane • Flights to Boston, returning from Washington DC
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,699
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Boston City Tour – £25, Québec City Guided Tour – £19, Toronto Guided City Tour – £28, Niagara Falls Lunch – £24, Helicopter Flight over Niagara Falls – £85, Manhattan City Tour & Top of the Rock – £45, Washington City T – £29
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £655
48
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Showcasing the sights and sounds of some truly fascinating and engaging cities, a glimpse of New England’s rolling, verdant countryside and the eye-popping wonder of mighty Niagara Falls, this tremendous value holiday is crammed from start to finish with wonderful highlights, as you journey from blue-blood Boston, to stylish Montréal and Québec City, then back via Ottawa and Toronto to breathtaking New York, historic Philadelphia and Washington’s seat of power. Day One Fly to Boston, and upon arrival, meet your tour manager and board the coach for the transfer to your hotel. Day Two Board the coach to enjoy a full day in America’s most European city, joining the fascinating optional guided tour exploring the famous ‘Freedom Trail’ through its compact heart. You may also wish to visit Quincy Market with its speciality stalls, or cross the Charles River to Harvard University, before returning to the hotel. Day Three Make the scenic journey north, through the leafy countryside of New England and on into Canada to Montréal, the world’s second-largest French-speaking metropolis, for a two-night stay. Day Four Today’s included excursion is to charming Québec City, North America’s only walled settlement. Enjoy an optional tour in the company of a local guide and explore the narrow, cobbled alleyways of endlessly enthralling VieuxQuébec. Québec City is sure to prove one of the highlights of this holiday. Day Five Enjoy a short orientation tour of Montréal, before heading along the ‘Maple Leaf Trail’ to enjoy an overnight stay in romantic Ottawa, Canada’s beautiful capital, with its Victorian houses and famous Rideau Canal. Day Six The Canadian capital is brought to life this morning on a guided tour, before you board the coach once more to journey on to glittering Toronto. Spend the evening and stay overnight in this engaging place.
Niagara Falls
Chateau Frontenac, Québec City
Capitol Building, Washington DC
Boston Waterfront
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Day Seven This morning, explore Toronto at your leisure, or join the optional guided tour. This afternoon, journey around Lake Ontario, to spend the first of two nights close to the mighty Niagara Falls. Day Eight Spend the morning in awestruck wonder as you visit the falls. Heard and seen for miles around, they are truly one of nature’s greatest sights. You may wish to take an optional helicopter flight for a bird’s eye view of the tumult.
Doubletree by Hilton
nights 1-2
North Shore
Located about 30 minutes from downtown Boston, the hotel offers an indoor pool, gym, restaurant and bar.
Sheraton Centre
nights 3-4
Montréal
Day Nine Today you’ll make the short journey across the bridge connecting Canada with the USA, , and will make the journey through Upper New York State and into Pennsylvania to spend the next two nights in New Jersey, just across the Hudson River from New York City.
Centrally located just a few minutes’ walk from Rue St Catherine, Montréal’s main shopping and dining street.
Day 10 Board the coach and head into the heart of New York. Explore on your own, or join our optional guided tour. Marvel at the famous sights and enjoy a visit to the 70thfloor ‘Top of the Rock’ at the Rockefeller Center, from where the whole of Manhattan and beyond can be viewed.
Well placed for city sightseeing with the Parliament Buildings, Byward Market and the Rideau Canal less than ten minutes walk away.
Day 11 Heading south, this morning you’ll visit the original US capital, Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was prepared and - after the tolling of the Liberty Bell - first read to the nation in July 1776. Enjoy our guided city tour, before continuing on to spend a final two nights close to Washington DC.
Toronto
Day 12 Enjoy a full day in the ‘Nation’s Capital’, which will be brought to life on the optional guided city tour. See the giant domed Capitol building on ‘the Hill’, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian museums and - across the green swathe of the Ellipse, at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue - the White House itself. Across the Potomac lie Arlington National Cemetery and the hulking Pentagon. Day 13 A last free morning brings opportunities for rest and relaxation, and perhaps a little shopping, before this afternoon you transfer to the airport for your return overnight flight. Day 14 Arrive back in the UK at the end of a wonderful holiday.
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Sheraton Hotel
night 5
Ottawa
Chelsea Hotel
night 6
Centrally located in downtown Toronto and with many of Toronto’s popular entertainment venues and shopping within walking distance.
Doubletree by Hilton
nights 7-8
Niagara Falls
Just a short walk from the falls, this friendly hotel offers a whole host of leisure amenities.
Holiday Inn
nights 9-10
Hasbrouck Heights
Across the Hudson River from New York’s Manhattan, this popular hotel features a bar and restaurant.
Doubletree by Hilton
nights 11-12
Tysons Corner
Adjacent to Tysons Corner shopping mall, and its vast selection of shops and restaurants, this hotel has a fitness centre, a bar, two restaurants and pub.
49
Jefferson Memorial, Washington
© MOTT Boston Common
New York
Boston, New York & Washington
9 days from
£1,249
Discover and explore some of East-Coast America’s most exciting and historic cities, and the stunning countryside that surrounds them. AVAILABLE: May & Jun 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Step back in time in Colonial Williamsburg • Scenic full-day drive including Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park and Charlottesville • Visit to Washington DC, the nation’s capital • Full day in Manhattan, New York – explore Fifth Avenue’s shops or take in a museum • Visit to Boston – America’s most European city • En-route stop in Newport, Rhode Island • Seven nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Flights to Washington, returning from Boston
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,249 (UK connecting flights available – call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Historic Jamestowne & Colonial Williamsburg – £52, Washington City Tour – £29, Manhattan City Tour & Top of the Rock – £45, Cape Cod & Plimoth Plantation – £35, Boston City Tour – £25
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £333
50
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
These spring and summertime journeys lift the lid on some of the Eastern seaboard’s most compelling cities – US capital and seat of power Washington, mesmerising, non-stop New York and historic, blue blood Boston – and include a host of fascinating highlights. Step into the past in colonial Williamsburg and Thomas Jefferson’s beloved Charlottesville, journey through Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains to the Shenandoah National Park, and explore maritime gem Newport, Rhode Island, elegant refuge of America’s first families. On optional excursions, discover America’s earliest beginnings, in historic Jamestowne and the Plimoth Plantation.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Comfort Inn, Williamsburg (nts 1-2) Within walking distance of a number of restaurants and shops, and just one mile from downtown colonial Willamsburg. Doubletree by Hilton, Tysons Corner (nt 3) Adjacent to Tysons Corner shopping mall and its vast selection of shops and restaurants, with a fitness centre, a bar and two restaurants. Holiday Inn Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey (nts 4-5) Located across the Hudson River, this popular hotel features a bar and restaurant. There’s an outdoor pool and all guest rooms are spacious. Nantasket Beach Resort Hotel and Spa, Hull (nts 6-7) Located on the seafront promenade, this hotel has a restaurant and a bar as well as an indoor pool.
Boston
Portland, Maine
New England in the Fall
9 days from
£1,199
One of nature’s greatest sights, some stunning countryside, and two wonderful cities, wrapped up in a classic escorted tour. AVAILABLE: Sep & Oct 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Explore glittering New York with its famous skyline • A spectacular full-day Fall Foliage tour includes idyllic Woodstock, Quechee Gorge and a drive on the glorious Kancamagus Highway • Visit North Conway in the scenic White Mountains • Discover the delights of coastal Maine, including Portland and Bush Family retreat Kennebunkport • Visit elegant Boston, America’s most European city • Discover historic Plymouth and fashionable Newport on Rhode Island • Seven nights’ carefully chosen accommodation on a room-only basis, plus one night on the plane • Return flights to New York
FLY DIRECT FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,199 (UK connecting flights available call us for details) • Manchester £1,199
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Manhattan City Tour & Top of the Rock – £45, Mount Washington Cog Railway and Scenic Byways – £54, Boston City Tour – £25
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £376
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
There are few finer sights in the world than when the millions of trees that carpet the northeast corner of the United States signal the end of the summer and the imminent arrival of ‘Fall’ each year with a blaze of red, purple, brown and golden hues framed against the still-blue skies. You’ll discover the unforgettable sight of Manhattan’s spectacular skyline; the elegant, cobbled streets of Boston’s Beacon Hill, first trodden by America’s Founding Fathers; the historic sites where the American Revolution began; and, of course, the breathtaking scenic drives through a landscape draped in the kaleidoscopic cloak of the fabled Fall colours.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Holiday Inn, Hasbrouck Heights (nights 1-2) Across the Hudson River from New York’s Manhattan, this popular hotel features a bar and restaurant. Grand Summit, Mount Snow (night 3) A lovely mountainside hotel surrounded by lush foliage with a restaurant and pub. Jordan Grand Hotel, Bethel (nights 4-5) This impressive hotel combines quality and service, with an unequalled mountainside location near the Maine village of Bethel. Nantasket Beach Resort Hotel & Spa, Hull (nights 6-7) Located just under an hour’s drive from downtown Boston, on the seafront promenade, this hotel has a restaurant and bar as well as an indoor pool.
51
Mount Royal, Montréal
Niagara Falls
New York City
Fall Colours of New England & Canada AVAILABLE:
£1,799
Mother Nature’s annual dazzling display, one of her greatest wonders, and some of North America’s most exciting, enthralling cities.
Sep & Oct 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Spend time in mesmerising New York City • Spend two nights in the shadow of Niagara Falls • Enjoy a short stay in sparkling, waterfront Toronto • Visit historic, pretty Niagara-on-the-Lake • Join the Maple Leaf Trail to present-day capital Ottawa • Stay in stylish and sophisticated Montréal • Québec City, overlooking the St Lawrence River • A ‘Fall Foliage’ drive through New England countryside • Discover coastal Maine’s Portland and Kennebunkport • Spend three nights in the seafront resort of Hull and visit Cape Cod • Follow the Pilgrim’s footsteps at Plimoth Plantation • Head to Cape Cod for a ‘Whale Watch’ cruise • A visit to Newport, Rhode Island • 13 nights’ carefully chosen hotel accommodation on a room-only basis • Return flights to New York
FLY DIRECT FROM THESE AIRPORTS. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,799 • Manchester £1,799
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Manhattan City Tour & Top of the Rock – £45, Niagara Falls Lunch – £24, Helicopter Flight over Niagara Falls – £85, Toronto City Tour – £28, Québec City Guided Tour – £19, Mount Washington Cog Railway and scenic byway – £54, Boston City Tour – £25
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £852
52
15 days from
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This wonderful holiday showcases the sensational autumn colours of one of the world’s most beautiful corners, the sights and sounds of some of North America’s greatest cities, and in the plunging torrents of Niagara Falls, one of its most breathtaking natural wonders. From Manhattan, to the scenic ‘Maple Leaf Trail’ from Toronto to Québec City, via Ottawa and Montréal, and from stunning Vermont and coastal Maine to elegant, ‘blue-blood’ Boston, this tour has it all.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Holiday Inn, Hasbrouck Heights (nights 1-2) Features a bar and restaurant. Sheraton on the Falls, Niagara Falls (nights 3-4) This hotel has an indoor pool and a restaurant. Chelsea Hotel, Toronto (night 5) Centrally located with a pool and restaurants. Sheraton Centre, Montréal (nights 6-7) A central hotel has a restaurant, an indoor pool and gym. Hotel Jay, Jay Peak (night 8) Located in the mountains, this hotel has several restaurants, bars and a pool. Grand Summit Resort, Bethel (nights 9-10) At the foot of the White Mountains, this hotel has a heated outdoor pool and several restaurants. Nantasket Beach Resort, Hull (nights 11-13) Located just under an hour’s drive from downtown Boston, on the seafront promenade.
The Capitol Building, Washington DC
Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains
Follow the Fall Colours –
9 ? days from
£xxx Washington, New York & Boston £1,199
Against the striking background of Fall’s russet red and golden hues, discover and explore a trio of great cities and some stunning countryside. AVAILABLE: Sep & Oct 2018
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Visit all-powerful Washington DC, home to the White House and Capitol Hill • Drive through Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park to the historic, magnolialined streets of Charlottesville • Explore glittering New York – the world’s most exciting city, with its famous skyline • Visit Newport, Rhode Island, with its beautiful seafront mansions • Discover elegant Boston, where the Freedom Trail takes in places associated with the American Revolution • Seven nights’ carefully chosen room-only hotel accommodation, plus one night on the plane • Flights to Washington, returning from Boston
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: •Heathrow £1,199 (UK connecting flights available – call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Historic Jamestowne & Colonial Williamsburg – £52, Washington City Tour – £29, Manhattan City Tour & Top of the Rock – £45, Cape Cod and Plimoth Plantation – £35, Boston City Tour – £25
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: £341 Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Beginning with a two-night stay in historic, colonial Williamsburg, gateway to all-powerful Washington and Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, this popular escorted tour includes the dazzling wonders of the ‘Big Apple’ – New York – and the blue-blood streets of elegant Boston, the most European of all American cities. Charlottesville’s historic streets, forested New England ablaze with colour, Newport’s studied grandeur and the opportunity, on an optional excursion, to visit Cape Cod and Plymouth, complete a wonderful autumn tour.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Comfort Inn
nights 1-2
Williamsburg Historic Centre
This welcoming hotel is within walking distance of a number of restaurants and shops, and is just one mile from downtown colonial Williamsburg.
Double Tree by Hilton
night 3
Tysons Corner
Adjacent to Tysons Corner shopping mall, and its vast selection of shops and restaurants.
Holiday Inn
nights 4-5
Hasbrouck Heights
Across the Hudson River from New York’s Manhattan, this popular hotel features a bar and restaurant.
Nantasket Beach Resort
nights 6-7
Hull
Located just under an hour’s drive from downtown Boston, on the seafront.
53
Grand Canyon
Las Vegas strip
© 2014 scottfrances.com
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
14 days from
£1,879
America’s Golden West
This classic escorted tour, taking in California, Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, is the perfect introduction to the stunning region. AVAILABLE: Apr to Jun, Sep & Oct 2018, Mar to Jun 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Discover San Francisco, the ‘City by the Bay’ • Call at Steinbeck’s Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea • Journey south along the Pacific Coast Highway • Spend three nights in glittering Los Angeles • Full day tour to sun-kissed San Diego • Three nights in non-stop, 24-hour Las Vegas • A full-day visit to the Grand Canyon • Visit Hollywood – movie capital of the world • 12 nights’ carefully chosen hotel accommodation on a room-only basis, plus one night on the plane • Return scheduled flights to Los Angeles
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,879 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
San Francisco, Sausalito & the Golden Gate Bridge – £29, Palm Springs & Aerial Tramway – £45, Helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon – £199, ‘The Rat Pack Is Back’ and Buffet Dinner – £75 , Vegas Nights Helicopter Flight – £99
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £784
54
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
Combine the magic of beautiful San Francisco, the ‘City by the Bay’, sparkling LA and glittering Hollywood, with the glamour of Las Vegas, the awesome beauty of the Grand Canyon – carved over millennia – and a scenic journey along California’s wild and beautiful Pacific coast. With the sun-kissed towns and cities of California including laid-back southern gem San Diego, this is an irresistible holiday full of unforgettable, ‘must-see, must-do’ highlights, especially for those visiting the ‘West Coast’ for the first time.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco (nights 1-3) This contemporary hotel is very well positioned close to the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf waterfront. Oxford Suites, Pismo Beach (night 4) This hotel has a bar, outdoor pool and offers a complimentary drinks reception most nights. Holiday Inn, Buena Park (nights 5-7) Welllocated for sightseeing in the LA area and close to Knott’s Berry Farm theme park, this hotel offers a restaurant and bar. Golden Nugget, Laughlin (nights 8-9) On the Colorado River boardwalk, this hotel has an outdoor pool, several restaurants and bars and casino floor. Golden Nugget, Las Vegas (nights 10-12) Stay in a Downtown Las Vegas landmark, with an award-winning casino, a host of restaurants and bar and a stunning pool complex.
Santa Monica Pier
Grand Canyon
Las Vegas
Hollywood, Vegas & the Grand Canyon
10 days from
£1,249
Visits to two of America’s most famous cities and the chance to experience the awe-inspiring chasm that is perhaps nature’s greatest wonder. AVAILABLE: Apr, May, Sep to Nov 2018, Apr & May 2019
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS: • Spend three nights close to glittering Los Angeles, California’s star-spangled Pacific Coast city • Visit Hollywood – movie capital of the world • Full day tour to sun-kissed San Diego • The awesome Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking, eye-popping sights on Earth – we stay for the night to catch sunset and sunrise • A four-night stay in extraordinary Las Vegas – the most spectacular desert ‘oasis’ on Earth – brings opportunities to make the most of this entertainment Mecca, to relax in the hotel, and to enjoy some unforgettable optional excursions • Eight nights’ carefully chosen hotel accommodation on a room-only basis, plus one night on the plane • Return scheduled flights to Los Angeles
FLY DIRECT FROM THIS AIRPORT. PRICES FROM: • Heathrow £1,249 (UK connecting flights available call us for details)
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Santa Monica & Malibu – £35, Helicopter Flight over the Grand Canyon – £199, Vegas Nights Helicopter Flight – £99
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: from £313
Call us on: 0330
160 7922
This hugely popular, fun-packed itinerary begins in sparkling Los Angeles, home to the star-studded streets of Hollywood, and a great base from which to explore San Diego, the epitome of Southern California living, on an included tour. You’ll journey to the majestic, awe-inspiring chasm of the Grand Canyon, perhaps nature’s greatest wonder, seen in all its glory at sunset. Enjoy four nights in glittering, glamorous Las Vegas, an oasis of colour and opulence rising out of the desert floor. Explore the glitz and glamour of the famous ‘Strip’ and by night enjoy a flutter in a state-of-the-art casino. Some fascinating optional excursions including chic Santa Monica and exclusive Malibu complete a fun and interest-packed tour.
YOUR TOURING HOTELS: Holiday Inn
nights 1-3
Buena Park
Well-located for sightseeing in the LA area, this hotel has a restaurant, bar and outdoor pool.
Canyon Plaza Resort
night 4
Grand Canyon
This hotel offers deluxe guest rooms beautifully decorated in traditional, southwestern-style.
Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino Las Vegas
nights 5-8
Stay in a Downtown Las Vegas landmark, with a casino, and a stunning outdoor pool complex.
55
Paper is now regarded as one of the world’s great sustainable products. It’s biodegradable, recyclable and made from renewable raw materials. In partnership with our print supply chain, our brochures are printed using carbon balanced FSC® certified materials. In association with the Woodland Trust, Newmarket Holidays has planted over 9400 sq meters of native woodland and in the process captured over 550 tonnes of C02 since 2015.
If undelivered please return to: Newmarket Holidays’ Print & Despatch Centre,11 Horatius Way, Surrey CR0 4RU
Low Deposits
Where will £79 your dreams The wonders take of theyou? world await... per person*
BOOK BY 31ST OCTOBER 2017
Look inside for a selection of once‑in‑a‑lifetime award‑winning escorted holidays
Call 0330 160 7922
Visit www.newmarketholidays.co.uk