Palace Tours Land Packages Brochure

Exotic destinations 3-4

Bhutan

5-6

Cambodia & Laos

7

Chile

8

China

9

Dubai

10-11

Egypt

12-15

India

16

Morocco

17-18

Nepal

19

Peru & Argentina

20

Philippines

21-23

South Africa

24-26

Spain, France & Portugal

27-28

Tanzania

29-30

Thailand

W

elcome to the world of Palace Tours where exotic destinations come alive. We have built our tour collection to deliver memorable journeys our guests cherish.

Palace Tours team has been designing and conducting unique, worry-free and exciting tours to exotic destinations around the globe for thousands of satisfied clients. Our team is dedicated to deliver consistent high quality service to a degree of perfection that only comes with decades of experience. Our tour specialists look forward to working with you to ensure you experience exquisite comfort and royal hospitality.

Our vacation packages are focused on delivering value for money and most of our tours may be customized to your needs. Whether it is a special occasion like a honeymoon or a family reunion, an individual travel plan or a family vacation, we help you plan activities that suit your needs. Our itineraries provide a framework for you to design your own personalized vacation and we do the rest of the work to make it memorable.

Palace Tours offers an extensive first-hand understanding of your travel destination, the culture and subtleties. We know the people, the locations, the must-sees and the hidden treasures.

Our experienced staff of travel professionals can help in choosing from numerous packages based on your interests or put together a tailor made comprehensive itinerary especially for you. We understand the challenges and we are ready with the right tools and smart solutions to ensure your pleasant journey.

Our consistent service delivery framework allows us to provide excellent service that our clients have to expect of us.

This catalog compiles a few of our very popular tours in beautiful destinations around the world.

For a complete list of our tours, we invite you to visit our website at http://www.palacetours.com.

We encourage you to call us now and we are excited to help you identify and plan your next vacation.

- The Palace Tours Team!

Bhutan

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A Cultural Adventure Day 1

Explore the distant lands and remarkable temples of Bhutan

Paro, Thimphu You are welcomed upon arrival in Paro by our friendly representative who takes you on a drive directly to Thimphu.

Check in to your hotel. If time permits this afternoon, proceed on a sightseeing tour of Thimphu where you may visit the Handicrafts Emporium, Zilikha nunnery and the Dechen Phodrang Monastic School.

Day 2 Thimphu, Punakha This morning, enjoy a visit to the School of Arts and Crafts, Folk Heritage Museum and the 12th century Changagkha Temple. Later, drive to Punakha over the scenic Dochula Pass, which reaches an elevation of 3,200 meters. If the weather is clear, you may be able to see a marvelous panoramic view of the entire Himalayan mountain range toward the northern border. Enjoy your lunch at Dochula Cafeteria. This afternoon, hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the beautiful temple of fertility, and later this evening visit the serene Punakha Dzong fortress, the second-oldest dzong in Bhutan.

Day 3 Punakha, Paro Take a morning drive towards the north end of the valley where you

may then hike to Khamsung Yulley Namgyal Choling Monastery on the ridge of the hill. Pause to enjoy the view of the long narrow valley. After your trek back from the monastery, visit the souvenir making center supported by the Youth Development Fund in Bhutan, and then return to Paro.

Day 4 Paro Early this morning, prepare yourself for a 2-hour hike to the famous Taktshang “Tiger’s Nest” monastery which hangs on a cliff 700 meters from the valley floor. Take some time to visit the temples within the monastery, then head back to town to visit the National Museum and Paro Dzong fortress. You also have the opportunity to visit Kichu Temple and the ruins of Drugyel Dzong. Enjoy a delicious dinner on your last night in Bhutan.

Day 5 Paro This morning, prepare for your departure flight back home or onward to your next exciting destination. Your tour guide transfers you to the airport and bids you a fond farewell.

The Taktshang Mona stery

Nights 5 Days Punakha Dzong

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

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Bhutan

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Golden Triangle Day 1

Paro, Thimphu You are welcomed upon arrival in Paro by our friendly representative who takes you on a drive directly to Thimphu.

Check in to your hotel. If time permits this afternoon, proceed on a sightseeing tour of Thimphu where you may visit the Handicrafts Emporium, Zilikha nunnery and the Dechen Phodrang Monastic School.

Day 2 Thimphu, Punakha This morning, enjoy a visit to the School of Arts and Crafts, Folk Heritage Museum and the 12th century Changagkha Temple. Later, drive to Punakha over the scenic Dochula Pass, which reaches an elevation of 3,200 meters. If the weather is clear, you may be able to see a marvelous panoramic view of the entire Himalayan mountain range toward the northern border. Enjoy your lunch at Dochula Cafeteria. This afternoon, hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the beautiful temple of fertility, and later this evening visit the serene Punakha Dzong fortress, the second-oldest dzong in Bhutan.

Day 3 Punakha, Phobjikha Take a morning drive towards the north end of the valley and proceed on a hike to Khamsung Yulley Namgyal Choling Monastery on the ridge of the hill. Pause to enjoy the view of this long narrow valley, then drive to the valley of Phobjikha, the winter home of the endangered black necked crane from the end of October until

February. The remainder of the afternoon is yours at leisure.

Day 4 Phobjikha Return to the gorgeous wide valley of Phobjikha which is entirely covered in dwarf bamboo. Today is your chance to simply relax and enjoy your peaceful surroundings. You also have the opportunity to visit nearby farm houses and meet the local people.

Day 5 Paro After breakfast, start your long drive back to Paro through Wangdue, Dochula and Thimphu. Check in to your hotel in Paro and make sure you get plenty of rest to energize yourself for tomorrow’s exciting adventure.

Day 6 Paro Early this morning, begin your 2-hour hike to the famous Taktshang “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery which hangs on a cliff 700 meters from the valley floor. Take some time to visit the temples within the monastery, then head back to town to visit the National Museum and the Paro Dzong fortress. You also have the opportunity to visit Kichu Temple and the ruins of Drugyel Dzong. Enjoy a delicious dinner on your last night in Bhutan.

Day 7 Paro Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure flight back home or to your next exciting destination.

Punakha Dzong in central Bhutan

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Discover Bhutan: A cultural adventure

Nights 7 Days la Pa ss chorten s at Dochu The view of 108

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

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Mysterious Kingdoms Day 1

Phnom Penh (Cambodia) You are met and greeted upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport by a Palace Tours representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Later, enjoy the spectacular sunset on a boat ride on the Chaktomouk River.

Day 2 Phnom Penh (Cambodia) This morning, learn about the nation’s history when you visit the APSARA Art Association, Independence Monument, the Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. Spend your afternoon absorbing more of the Cambodian life as you stroll in the Russian Market of Phsar Tuol Tumpung, then visit Wat Phnom and the Tuol Sleng Museum, a former Khmer Rouge S-21 prison.

Day 3 Phnom Penh, Siem Reap (Cambodia) Travel by road to Siem Reap accompanied by your local guide. En route, pass Kampong Thom province to observe the sandstone sculptures of Santouk Mountain and marvel at the 1,000-year old Angkorian bridge. This afternoon, visit the floating and fishing villages of the Tonle Sap Great Lake, then head back to town to admire traditional Khmer stone and wood carvings at Artisan d’Angkor. Dinner is served accompanied by a classical dance show for your entertainment.

Day 4 Siem Reap (Cambodia) In the morning, commence your ancient temple tour with visits to the lost city of the Khmer Empire, South Gate of Angkor Thom, giant faces of famous Bayon, Baphuon Temples, Terraces of Elephants, Leper King, Phimean Akas and the unforgettable jungle temple of Ta Prohm. This afternoon, marvel at the World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat Temple before climbing Bakheng hill to view the surrounding areas bathed in the glow of the sunset.

Day 5 Siem Reap (Cambodia) Continue your heritage tour by visiting the temples of Banteay Srey and Banteay Samre, and spend the remainder of the morning at the village of Pradak where you can learn how the locals produce natural palm sugar from palm juice. In the afternoon, you have an opportunity to see other fabulous temples such as Preah Khan, Neak Pean and East Mebon.

Day 6 Vientiane (Laos) Fly from Siem Reap to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Visit Wat Sisaket, with its thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the

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Cambodia & Laos

former royal temple of Wat Prakeo. On the way to the sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, drive past the imposing Patuxay Monument, known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph.

Day 7 Vientiane, Xieng Khouang (Laos) Spend your morning free at leisure until your afternoon flight to Xieng Khouang. Upon arrival, explore the “Plain of Jars”, archaeological sites where thousands of giant stone jars are scattered all over the plateau. Later this afternoon, travel to the old capital of Muang Khoun Province and the nearby villages that house the Hmong hill tribe and Tai Dam people.

Day 8 Xieng Khouang, Luang Prabang (Laos) Journey to the Central Market of Phonsavan to watch different hill tribes barter and exchange merchandise. As you travel to Luang Prabang, stop in Thampra en route to see the Buddha’s images, a site that dates back over 200 years. Arrive in Luang Prabang and if time permits, take a tour of the city beginning with a trip to the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham and Wat Mai. Then climb Phousi Mount for an enjoyable sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. Explore the Street Night Bazaar, where you can find lovely handmade textiles and collectibles.

Day 9 Luang Prabang (Laos) This morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the city’s oldest temple, Wat Sene, and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong. Later, embark on an upstream cruise on the Mekong River and enjoy the beautiful view of the tranquil countryside. Arrive at the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, and then visit the village of Ban Xanghai. On your return journey, take a short drive to the village of Ban Phanom, known for its hand weaving.

Day 10 Luang Prabang (Laos) On your last day in Laos, visit the National Museum at the former Royal Palace which houses a lovely collection of artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture. Stroll through the Central Market and enjoy a day in the life of the locals. Later transfer to the airport to catch your departure flight back home from this charming city.

Laos & Cambodia: A fascinating cultural adventure

Nights 10 Days

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

Chile

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Charles Darwin’s Patagonia Voyage Day 1

An epic voyage in Chile and Argentina

Nights 13 Days

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

Santiago You are met by your friendly guide upon arrival at Santiago Airport and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, discover the major highlights of the Chilean capital, including a visit to the city’s civic center with the neoclassical La Moneda Palace, the Plaza de Armas, Santa Lucia Hill and the traditional handicraft market Pueblito Los Dominicos. Return to the hotel and stay overnight in Santiago.

Day 2 La Campana National Park, Valparaíso, Santiago Drive towards La Campana National Park, one of the last remaining habitats of the Chilean palm tree, and then continue to Palmar de Ocoa, whose main attraction is the “Kan Kan” or palm tree forest. Begin an easy hike, following a trail along the Rabuco brook to observe the full magnificence of the palm grove with thousand-year-old trees that tower up to 30 m (98 ft). Drive towards Valparaíso to visit its new government house, the Plaza Sotomayor, the Plaza Victoria, the cathedral and the harbor area. Afterwards, drive to the colorful hill neighborhoods, a fantastic agglomeration of brightly painted houses with a fantastic view over the city. Later return to your hotel in Santiago.

Day 3 Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas Today you fly to Puerto Montt, the main gateway to the Lake District and Patagonia. Upon arrival, visit the fish and handicraft market Angelmó, the main square, the “Plaza de Armas” and its beautiful church. Afterward, drive to nearby Puerto Varas where the night is spent.

Day 4 Chiloé Island, Puerto Varas Embark on a ferry ride to Chiloé Island, where you may come across wonderfully structured old churches, colorful markets full of sea and agricultural produce, knitted goods, woven baskets, ornaments and thick pure woolen blankets. Return to Puerto Varas.

Day 5 Punta Arenas Your tour begins at the Margiorino Borgatello Museum, then visit monuments like the Ovejero (shepherd), Monument to Ferdinand Magellan, and the Croatian Colonists Monument. Lastly, you may enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery from a lookout on Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross), where there are spectacular views over the city, the Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego.

Day 6 The Beagle Channel Board the cruise ship and enjoy a welcome cocktail reception followed by the ship’s departure for the “end of the world.” Today’s excursion takes you through the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel, named after the ship that served Captain Fitz Roy and his 22-year-old sidekick Charles Darwin to explore one of the most breathtaking wilderness regions in the world, Southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

Day 7

Ainsworth Bay, The Beagle Channel At dawn, the ship continues its navigation through Almirantazgo Sound until arriving near Marinelli Glacier in Ainsworth Bay. Disembark the ship and enjoy a walk to a beaver dam hidden in the midst of a marvelous Magellan forest. You may have the chance to observe a colony of elephant seals on the beach before continuing to Tucker Islet, where colonies of Magellan penguins and cormorants can be safely viewed from the Zodiac boats. The islet’s penguins migrate in April, so as a replacement for tours at that time, visit Brookes Bay for a short walk to see an impressive glacier.

Day 8 The Beagle Channel The ship navigates through the main part of Beagle Channel to reach Pia Bay. Disembark near Pia Glacier and take a short hike to a lookout point to see a spectacular view of the entire glacier tongue. Continue sailing along the northwest arm of Beagle Channel through the majestic “Glacier Alley” of Spain, Romanche, Germany, Italy, France and Holland Glaciers.

Day 9 Cape Horn, Wulaia Bay Sail through the Beagle and Murria channels to reach Cape Horn National Park (weather permitting). Cape Horn, on Hornos Island, is a sheer 425 m (1,394 ft) high rocky promontory at the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. This legendary place is known as the “end of the world” and to visit is a singular privilege.

Step ashore in historic Wulaia Bay and walk through Magellan forest before returning to your ship.

Day 10 Ushuaia Disembark the ship in Ushuaia, Argentina’s most important city in Tierra del Fuego, and the southernmost city in the world. Today’s tour leads you to the old quarter of the city and the harbor, then finish the day’s excursion at the End of the World Museum. Stay overnight in Ushuaia.

Day 11 Buenos Aires After breakfast, you fly to Buenos Aires. Transfer to the hotel upon arrival and spend the remainder of your day at leisure.

Day 12 Buenos Aires Tour the city’s famous districts, starting off at “Plaza de Mayo” and the old “tango” districts of Buenos Aires: Monserrat, San Telmo and la Boca. Visit the bustling areas of Puerto Madero, Retiro and Plaza San Martín, followed by the Palermo and Recoleta districts with their wonderful green spaces and old residences. Return to your hotel in Argentina.

Day 13 Buenos Aires Transfer to the Buenos Aires Airport this morning for your departure flight home or to your next exciting destination.

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China

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Silk Road Odyssey Day 1

Beijing You are met upon arrival in Beijing by a Palace Tours representative and transferred to your hotel where you may spend the rest of the day at leisure, resting from your flight and preparing for your exciting journey that lies ahead.

Day 2 Beijing After breakfast, embark on a full day tour of Beijing, starting with a visit to Tian’anmen Square, the largest public square in the world and Forbidden City. After lunch, visit the famous Imperial garden and the Summer Palace followed by an authentic local performance from the Peking Opera in the evening.

Day 3 Beijing This morning you depart for Badaling and marvel at the 5,000 km Great Wall of China. Later this afternoon, visit the Ming Tombs and Sacred Way, where 24 Ming Emperors were buried followed by a delicious authentic Peking Duck dinner.

Day 4 Beijing, Xi’an Check out of the hotel after breakfast and board your morning flight to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. Upon arrival, you are met by our representative and transferred to the hotel. En route visit the Grand Mosque and drive past the Ancient City Wall. Spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 5 Xi’an Today, visit the famous Terracotta Warriors, an army of over 6,000 life-sized men, horses and chariots buried as a part of Emperor Qin’s tomb followed by a visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. In the evening, enjoy a Dumpling Banquet and the Tang Dynasty Show, popular for its fantastic customs, pleasant music and dancing.

Day 6 Lanzhou Transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Lanzhou. You are met upon arrival and taken to the hotel, where you may spend the remainder of your day at leisure.

Day 7 Lanzhou Enjoy a full day tour of Lanzhou and visit the Bingling Grottoes and Liujiaxia Dam, one of China’s hydropower dams. Return to your hotel in Lanzhou and stay overnight.

Day 8 Xiahe Embark on a 4-hour drive to Xiahe, a Tibetan area about 280 km away from Lanzhou. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a visit to the Sangke Grassland. Stop at a local Tibetan family en route to your hotel in Xiahe for an overnight stay.

Day 9 Xiahe, Lanzhou This morning, visit the Labrang Monastery, home to the largest

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number of Tibetan monks outside of Tibet itself. Enjoy the scenic drive back to Lanzhou and check in to your hotel.

Day 10 Dunhuang Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and spend your morning at leisure.

This afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Dunhuang.

Transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 11 Dunhuang Transfer to Dunhuang for a full day tour, beginning with a trip to Mogao Caves. After lunch, visit the Mingshang Mountain and the Crescent Moon Lake. This evening, board a soft-sleeper train and spend the night on board as you travel to Turpan.

Day 12 Turpan Upon arrival in Turpan, you are met by our representative and transferred to the hotel for check-in followed by a full day tour, which includes visits to the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, Tombs of Astana, Gaochang Ruins and the Flaming Mountain. This evening, enjoy a folk dancing and singing show before returning to your hotel.

Day 13 Turpan, Urumqi After breakfast, depart to the Jiaohe Ruins and the karez wells in Xinjiang, a unique underground irrigation system of vertical wells linked by underground canals. After lunch, receive a car transfer to Urumqi and check in to your hotel.

Day 14 Urumqi, Kashgar Today, you visit the Xinjiang Museum and Tianchi Lake, one of the most famous crater lakes in China. Later in the evening, board your flight to Kashgar, and transfer to the hotel upon arrival.

Day 15 Kashgar Embark on a 4-hour drive this morning up to Karakul Lake, whose name means “Black Sea”. Return to Kashgar and stay overnight.

Day 16 Kashgar, Urumqi Begin your full day tour of Kashgar at the Big Bazaar, the largest market in the city. Continue on to Id Kah Mosque and the Tombs of Abakh Hoja. Later transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Urumqi. Check in to the hotel upon arrival and stay overnight.

Day 17 Beijing Transfer to the airport this morning after breakfast for your flight back to Beijing. Check in to your hotel upon arrival and spend the rest of the day at leisure, strolling around the city on your last day in China.

Day 18 Beijing Receive a transfer to the airport for your international departure flight home or to your next exciting destination.

Retrace the path of the Silk Road; one of the most important trading routes of ancient civilization

Nights 18 Days

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

Dubai

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Arabian Nights Day 1

Discover Arabian hospitality at its best

Dubai You are met at the airport upon arrival and transferred to your hotel in Dubai for an overnight stay.

Day 2 Al Dhaid, Dibba, Dubai, Fujairah, Masafi, The Hajar Mountains After breakfast at the hotel, prepare for an exciting tour of the east coast, beginning with a drive through the lush oasis of Al Dhaid, renowned for its fruit and vegetable plantations. Continue on to Masafi and the picturesque Hajar mountains before reaching the village of Dibba, where you may wander around the small port. The drive continues along the coast, passing by several fishing villages en route. Enjoy a relaxing swim in the Indian Ocean followed by a trip to Al Badivah, the oldest mosque in the Emirates. Visit the renovated fort in Fujairah and make a stop at the oasis of Bithnah.

The tour concludes in Masafi, where you have time to browse the vibrant “Friday Market� before returning to your hotel.

Day 3 Dubai Explore Dubai your way today, as a car, driver and guide are at your disposal for a full four hours! We suggest a drive through Dubai Marina, the Jumeirah residence area, and the Jumeirah beach area.

You may also enjoy a drive through Palm Jumeirah (subject to the approval of the concerned authority) and a visit to Montgomerie, the world-class glass house. Spend the remainder of your day at leisure.

Day 4 Dubai, Hatta After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a four-wheel-drive vehicle adventure across the varied terrain to Hatta, with spectacular views across rocky mountain passes. The first stop is at the reconstructed Hatta Heritage Village, complete with its Falaj water supply system and traditional houses. Admire the views of the Hatta Wadi (dry river bed), which winds through the mountains, revealing lush green oases and refreshing water pools. Enjoy a picnic lunch and begin your drive back to the hotel, passing by the sand dunes en route.

Day 5 Dubai This morning, transfer to the airport for your departure flight home or to your next exotic destination.

Fujairah Fort

Nights 5 Days Aerial view of the Palm Islands in Dubai

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

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Egypt

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Classical Egypt Revisited Day 1

Cairo You are met with assistance upon arrival at Cairo International Airport by a Palace Tours representative, then transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2 Cairo Meet your guide to start a full day of Cario’s sightseeing, starting with the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Later, drive to Memphis, one of the most important cities throughout the archeological history of Ancient Egypt. End your day with a visit to Saqqara, the “City of the Dead” which boasts the famous step pyramid of Djoser.

Day 3 Cairo Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, which contains a vast collection of Pharaonic antiquities including the treasures of King Tutankhamen. Later, take a drive to the 12th century medieval Citadel of Salah El-Din and the alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali, built in the 19th century. End your day by visiting the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the most exciting attractions in Cairo.

Day 4 Abu Simbel, Aswan Transfer to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Abu Simbel via Aswan to visit the great temples. After your visit, fly back to Aswan where you are transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Your afternoon is free at leisure, a perfect time to explore Aswan’s Market.

Day 5 Aswan Board the Nile cruise ship for a three-night journey where you will travel back in time to experience the glory of the Pharaohs and ancient Egyptian civilization.

Day 6 Aswan, Edfu, Kom Ombo

Enjoy a guided tour of the major sites on the banks of the Nile.

Start in Aswan by visiting Philae Temple, the unfinished Obelisk and the High Dam. Enjoy lunch on board, then sail to Kom Ombo to explore the unique double temple of Sobek and Haroeris. Sail to Edfu, where a short horse drawn carriage ride takes you to the temple of Horus. Return to the ship for dinner on board.

Day 7 Luxor Set sail to Luxor and enjoy lunch on board. Visit the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the River Nile, which in modern times has become famous for the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen, and is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

Later visit the temple of Hatsebshute at El Dier El Bahary and the famous stone Colossi of Memnon on the west bank.

Day 8 Cairo Disembark the cruise ship today after breakfast, and transfer to Luxor Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival at Cairo Airport, transfer to your hotel where you can spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 9 Cairo After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight back home. If you are not quite ready to end your Egyptian experience, you may choose one of our exciting extension tours to prolong your trip for a few more days.

An ancient Egyptian cultural adventure

For more tours to Egypt, please refer to our

Egypt Brochure

Nights 9 Days

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Palace Tours Exotic Destination

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Egypt

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Coast to Cairo Day 1

The ultimate Egyptian experience

Cairo Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you are met by a Palace Tours representative who assists you with all customs and visa formalities. Transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2 Cairo Start your guided tour of Cairo with a visit to the famous Pyramids of Giza built for Pharaohs Cheops, Chephren and Mycerinus. Just east of the second pyramid lies the legendary Sphinx, acting as the guardian of the Pharaoh’s enormous funerary monument. Explore Memphis and Saqqara, two of the most extensive archaeological sites in Egypt.

Day 3 Cairo Visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities and marvel at the golden treasures extracted from the tomb of King Tutankhamen. Later, view the sights of Islamic Cairo and tour the medieval citadel of Salah El-Din. End your day with a walk through Khan El Khalili Bazaar, reputedly the largest bazaar in the Middle East.

Day 4 Abu Simbel, Aswan Fly to Abu Simbel to visit the great temples of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari and feel free to examine every detail of the amazing architecture of this immortal civilization. Transfer back to the Airport for your flight to Aswan. The afternoon is yours at leisure to enjoy the day and walk through the Souq, Aswan’s market.

Day 5 Aswan, Kom Ombo Board the Nile cruise ship and start your Nile journey with a visit to the High Dam, which provides Egypt’s irrigation and electricity.

Later, tour the temple of Philae and set sail to Kom Ombo for an afternoon visit to its unique double temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris.

Day 6 Edfu, Luxor Arrive in Edfu to visit the temple of Horus, which is considered by most to be the best preserved cult temple in Egypt. Lunch is served as you sail to Esna to cross the lock, and continue sailing to Luxor, the “world’s greatest open air museum”.

Day 7 Luxor Cross the Nile’s west bank in Luxor where you first visit the Necropolis of Thebes. Join your guided tour to the Valley of the Kings where you can see the many tombs of Pharaohs, kings and powerful nobles, including the tomb of Tutankhamen. Visit the amazing temple of Queen Hatshepsut and then view the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Day 8 The Red Sea Disembark the Nile Cruise and travel to the exotic Red Sea, known for its spectacular dive sites and its popular tourist resorts. This afternoon, rest and relax at the resort.

Day 9 The Red Sea You may spend your day at leisure, join one of our optional tours around the area or take a dive to explore the underwater world.

Day 10 The Red Sea You may either spend your day at leisure or choose to take one of our optional extension tours such as a city tour, a Bedouin dinner and camel ride, a Red Sea excursion, a visit to the monastery, a trip to the mountains and canyons, and much more.

Day 11 The Red Sea Spend your day at leisure or join one of the optional activities.

Day 12 Cairo Fly to Cairo and spend your last night exploring the city life, or simply relax and re-energize for your departure flight tomorrow morning.

Day 13 Cairo Transfer to Cairo International Airport for your flight back home.

For more tours to Egypt, please refer to our

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Nights 13 Days

11

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

Luxor Temple

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India

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Wonders of Shimla Day 1

New Delhi, Shimla Early this morning you are met by a Palace Tours representative either at the Delhi International Airport or at your hotel. Transfer to the railway station to board the train to Kalka. Receive assistance at Kalka railway station to connect to the Toy Train to Shimla, where you are met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Spend your evening at leisure and enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2 Shimla After breakfast at the hotel, embark on your full day sightseeing tour of Shimla. Visit Kali Bari, a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and then move on to Jakhoo Hill, the highest peak in Shimla at 2455 m, which offers a panoramic view of the town and is home to Jakhoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Later, enjoy a scenic walk from Summer Hill to admire the 67-meter-high Chadwick Falls. These picturesque falls, surrounded by thick forests, are situated at about 7 km from the city at a height of 1586 metres. The Glen Forests with their refreshing ice-cold stream boast some of the most wonderful picnic areas in Shimla. Today’s tour ends with a visit to Christ Church and the shopping center on the Mall Road. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 3

Shimla Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and drive for about 30 minutes to Kufri, a tiny hill station that is famous for its trekking and hiking trails, nature parks and picnic spots. Adventure-seekers flock to Kufri in the winter to enjoy skiing and tobogganing along its snow-covered slopes. Continue your journey with a visit to the Indira Gandhi Holiday Home and onwards to Fagu to explore the nature trails and fruit orchards. Return to Shimla later this afternoon and stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 4 Shimla, New Delhi After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the railway station to board the train to Kalka. Receive assistance upon arrival in Kalka to board the train to Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi, transfer to the airport to board your flight to your onward destination or transfer to your chosen Delhi hotel.

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Experience North Indian lifestyle at its best

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Studie s of Advanced te u it st n I Indian

Nights 4 Days Christ Church, Sh imla

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Palace Tours Exotic Destination

12

India

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The Golden Triangle Getaway Day 1

Experience Rajasthan at its best as tales of history, culture and love come alive

Nights 5 Days

15

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

New Delhi Upon arrival at Delhi IGI Airport, you are welcomed in the traditional Indian style and transferred to your hotel where assistance is provided to ensure a smooth check-in. Spend the remainder of your day relaxing at the hotel as you recover from your long flight, or stroll about the city at leisure. Stay overnight at your hotel.

Day 2 New Delhi After breakfast, proceed for a full day tour of Old and New Delhi, visiting such sites as Humayun’s Tomb and the impressive Qutub Minar built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibek in 1199 from sandstone and marble. Drive past India Gate (War Memorial Arch), the President’s House and Parliament House. Enjoy visits to the Red Fort, Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, and Jama Masjid, one of the bestknown mosques in India, before taking a rickshaw ride through the mile-long Chandni Chowk market. Return to your hotel and spend your evening at leisure.

Day 3 Agra Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, and then depart by road for Agra. En route, visit Sikandra’s Tomb, the last resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Later this afternoon, take a half day tour of Agra and marvel at the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders

of the World. Spend the rest of your evening at leisure and stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 4 Agra, Jaipur After breakfast, you are taken to visit Agra Fort before departing by road for Jaipur. Along the way, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal palatial complex of Emperor Akbar. Check in to your next hotel upon arrival in Jaipur, where you have some time to relax before being treated to dinner tonight accompanied by a cultural show.

Day 5 Jaipur, New Delhi This morning after breakfast, begin your tour of Jaipur with an elephant ride to the top of Amber Fort. After lunch, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of the “Pink City” visiting such places as Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), the City Palace and Museum and Jantar Mantar Observatory. Later, embark on the drive back to Delhi. Upon arrival, you are either transferred to your hotel or to the airport for your onward journey.

For more tours to India, please refer to our

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Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

N ew Delhi Qutub Minar,

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Morocco

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Glory of Morocco’s Imperial Cities Day 1

Agadir You are welcomed upon arrival at Al Massira International Airport in Agadir and transferred to your hotel. Rest and relax after your long flight, and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 Essaouira, Safi Check out of the hotel this morning after breakfast and depart to Essaouira (190 km) with fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean during the drive. Essaouira, known as the “White Pearl of the Atlantic” is a magnificent port city with a vibrant artist culture.

Continue driving towards Safi (120 km) for a city tour and to see the pottery for which the area is known. Check in to your hotel in Safi for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3 Casablanca, Rabat Today, embark on a drive to two of the most important cities in Morocco, Casablanca and Rabat. Arrive in Casablanca (240 km), the industrial and economic capital for a short city tour and continue the drive towards Rabat (90 km), the administrative capital of Morocco. Your city tour includes visits to the ruins of the 12th century Kasbah of Udayas with its Hassan Tower. Also visit the mausoleum of Mohamed V, considered a masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Rabat.

Day 4 Fes, Meknes, Volubilis In the morning, depart for Fes (190 km) via Meknes, the former Imperial city of the Sultan Moulay Ismail. Visit Bab El Mansour and the bustling medina before continuing the journey towards Volubilis, which is home to the best preserved ancient Roman ruins in Northern Africa and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Later, visit the nearby town of Moulay Idriss, an important Muslim pilgrimage site and the location of the tomb of Moulay Idris I, founder of Fes. Continue the drive towards Fes, check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner.

Day 5

Fes Embark on a full day exploration of Fes, starting with a stop at the Zaouia (shrine) of Moulay Idriss II, and the Madrasa (school) Bou Inania which is a fine example of Marinid architecture and is the only Madrasa in Fes which has a minaret. Continue to University of Al-Karaouine, the oldest degree-granting university in the world, the beautiful Najjarine Fountain and the traditional markets. Later, travel to Fes El Jadid and Fes El Bali, the old walled city which is believed to be the largest car-free urban area in the world, before returning to your hotel for dinner.

Day 6 Beni-Mellal This morning after breakfast, bid farewell to Fes and depart south for Beni Mellal by way of Azrou (90 km). Enjoy the picturesque drive through beautiful chains of cedar trees where you may have the chance to see the Barbary Macaques who dwell in these forests.

Upon arrival in the important economic center of Beni Mellal, check in to your hotel, have dinner, and spend the rest of your evening at leisure.

Day 7 Marrakech Travel to Marrakech this morning after breakfast (200 km). See the Koutoubia Mosque, which was used as the model for the Giralda of Seville and for the Hassan Tower of Rabat, then onwards to the beautifully decorated Saadian tombs and Bahia palace. Your last stop is Marrakech’s Medina quarter, home of the famous Djemaa El Fna Square which bustles with acrobats, story-tellers, dancers, and musicians. By night, food stalls populate the square which then becomes a huge open-air restaurant with vibrant nightlife, sounds and colors. Check in to your hotel in Marrakech for dinner and your last overnight stay in Morocco.

Day 8 Agadir Check out of your hotel in Marrakech and transfer to the airport in Agadir (240 km) for your departure flight home.

Glory of Morocco’s imperial cities

Rabat Meknes Casablanca Fes Safi Beni-Mellal Essaouira Marrakech Agadir

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Marinid Tombs, Fes, Morocco

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co c o or

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Nepal

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Temples and Tigers Day 1

Discover Nepal’s exciting wildlife and culture

Kathmandu You are met by our friendly representative upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and then transferred to your hotel for checkin. Spend the rest of the day at leisure making sure you get plenty of rest to prepare for your adventure-filled week!

Day 2 Kathmandu After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day sightseeing journey, first visiting the cultural and historical World Heritage Site of Kathmandu Durbar Square. It contains numerous courtyards and temples along with the ancient palaces of the Malla and Shah kings who ruled the city. You may also climb the 365 steps to the enigmatic Swayambhunath stupa and then visit Patan which is famed for its fine arts.

Day 3 Kathmandu, Nagarkot Enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour where you can visit Pashupatinath temple, the most sacred temple of Shiva; Boudhanath, the largest spherical stupa in Nepal; and Bhaktapur, a medieval town and former capital of Nepal. Drive to Nagarkot, a beautiful vantage point to see stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. Enjoy your overnight stay at Club Himalaya Resort in Nagarkot.

Day 4 Chitwan After an early morning breakfast, head west on a 140 km drive to Chitwan National Park, one of the best managed national parks

in the world. The Park is home to at least 450 species of birds, 45 species of amphibians and reptiles and 43 species of mammals which include the majestic Bengal tiger, the single-horned Indian rhinoceros and the sloth bear. Enjoy lunch at a lodge within the Park and spend the night at a Jungle Resort.

Day 5 Chitwan Explore the flora and fauna of Chitwan National Park as you take a safari on the back of an elephant. Later, you have the option to travel downstream in a dug out canoe, another exciting adventure to round off your unforgettable Chitwan National Park experience.

Day 6 Kathmandu Embark on a scenic five-hour drive along the sacred Trisuli River as you travel back to Kathmandu. You are free to explore Kathmandu at leisure for the remainder of the afternoon. This evening, enjoy dinner accompanied by a cultural program in a Nepali restaurant.

Day 7 Kathmandu This morning, check out of the hotel and receive a transfer to the airport for your departure flight back home or to your next exciting destination.

Nights 7 Days

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Palace Tours Exotic Destination

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Nepal

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Wildlife & Heritage Adventure Day 1

Kathmandu You are met upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport by a friendly representative. Transfer to the hotel where you can rest prior to your exciting tour that lies ahead.

Day 2 Kathmandu On today’s full-day sightseeing journey, explore the cultural and historical World Heritage Site of Kathmandu Durbar Square which contains numerous courtyards and temples along with the ancient palaces of the Malla and Shah kings who ruled the city. Visit Pashupatinath temple, the most sacred temple of Shiva, climb the 365 steps to the enigmatic Swayambhunath stupa and then visit Boudhanath, the largest spherical stupa in Nepal.

Day 3 Kathmandu Enjoy another day of sightseeing in Kathmandu where you may catch up on any of the sights you may have missed on Day 2. You may also visit the must-see Patan Durbar Square and the 55-window Palace and Golden Gate in the medieval town of Bhaktapur.

Day 4 Pokhara This morning, begin your drive to the peaceful lakeside town of Pokhara which contrasts greatly with the bustle of Kathmandu.

Upon arrival, explore the caves, temples, lakes and waterfalls that lend their scenic beauty to this splendid town.

Day 5 Pokhara Spend another day enjoying the natural charms of Pokhara. If

God of Kathmandu

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desired, you may even take a powered hang glider flight over the spectacular local scenery [optional extra].

Day 6 Chitwan After breakfast, head west on a 140 km drive to Chitwan National Park, one of the best managed national parks in the world. Enjoy your overnight stay at a Jungle Resort.

Day 7 Chitwan Experience the wildlife adventure in Chitwan National Park which serves as a safe refuge to at least 450 species of birds, 45 species of amphibians and reptiles and 43 species of mammals. Journey through the Park and keep an eye out for the elusive Bengal tiger, the endangered single-horned Indian rhinoceros, the colossal Asian elephant, the mighty gaur bison, the slumbering gharial crocodiles and much more.

Day 8 Kathmandu Embark on a scenic five-hour drive along the sacred Trisuli River as you travel back to Kathmandu. You are free to explore Kathmandu at leisure for the remainder of the afternoon. This evening, enjoy dinner accompanied by a cultural program in a Nepali restaurant.

Day 9 Kathmandu After checking out of your hotel, receive a transfer to the airport for your departure flight back home or to your next exciting destination.

Nepal’s nature and heritage experience

Nights 9 Days

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

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Peru

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Discover the Lost City of the Incas Day 1

Spend seven days retracing the steps of the ancient Inca civilization

Nights 7 Days

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Palace Tours Exotic Destination

Lima You are met upon arrival at the airport and privately escorted to your hotel to relax and refresh after your long plane flight.

Day 2 Cusco An early morning flight brings you to the Inca capital of Cusco.

Upon arrival, proceed to the hotel to have a welcome coca tea, which may help relieve altitude sickness. The remaining of the morning is free to relax and slowly acclimatize. Your comprehensive afternoon tour of Cusco includes the beautiful Koricancha or Sun Temple, the Cathedral as well as the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a remarkable Inca building, and the amphitheater of Kenko.

This is followed by a visit to Puca Pucara, a strategically located ‘red fortress’ that dominates the entire area before visiting Tambomachay, with its two distinctive aqueducts that to this day continue to provide clean water to the area.

Day 3 Ollantaytambo, Písac, Sacred Valley This morning after breakfast, you are driven to the Sacred Valley to visit Ollantaytambo and Pisac. Hundreds of visitors and people from remote communities dressed in their traditional and colorful attires travel to the Pisaq market to barter their products. Enjoy some time to stroll around the market and buy souvenirs, followed by lunch in a typical ‘hacienda’. Depart Pisac and continue along the valley to Ollantaytambo, location of the Temple of the Sun and The Terrace of the Ten Niches. Ollantaytambo was the site of the only successful Inca battle against the Spanish conquerors and the only town in the area to still retain its original Inca layout. Return to your hotel later this afternoon and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 4 Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley This morning, transfer to the Ollanta train station for a 1 ½ -hour train ride through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to Machu Picchu. On arrival, board a small coach and travel along the steep roads to the entrance of the citadel. Machu Picchu remained for centuries undiscovered by the Spaniards, only to be found in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. The uniqueness of its location and the genius that went into its construction make this Inca archaeological site truly one of the great wonders of the world. A well deserved buffet lunch is served after your excursion at the restaurant of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located within the very sanctuary of the Machu Picchu Inca citadel. Depart to your hotel in Aguas Calientes and stay overnight.

Day 5 Aguas Calientes, Cusco, Machu Picchu After breakfast, the remainder of the morning is yours at leisure to roam around the majestic site of Machu Picchu, climb the Huayna Picchu (3000 m) or to explore the interesting town of Aguas

Calientes. This afternoon, board the train back to Cusco, where you are met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel.

Day 6 Cusco, Lima This morning after breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima, one of the most important cities in South America.

Explore the historic quarter and modern districts of the city and the main square with its beautiful buildings. The Government Palace, the City Hall, the Palace of the Archbishop and the Cathedral are still the most important places in town. Continue on to the San Francisco Monastery, the popular Plaza San Martin, and the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Afterwards continue to Larco Herrera Museum, which is housed in an elegant 18th century mansion built over a pre-Inca pyramid from the 7th century. It displays the most extensive collection of pre-Columbian art in Peru (45,000 pieces) and boasts the finest gold and silver collection of ancient Peruvian cultures as well as the only collection of erotic ceramics in the world. The museum’s didactic galleries, full of highlights, make it easier to understand the 3,000 years of the Peruvian pre-Columbian history. Its masterpieces are considered worldwide icons of pre-Columbian art and have been displayed in the world’s most renowned museums. Return to your hotel and stay overnight.

Day 7 Lima This morning after breakfast, you are transferred to the airport for your departure flight home or to your next exotic destination.

Machu Picchu

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The Wonders of the Philippines Day 1

Manila Upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you are met by one of our representatives and transferred to your hotel.

Spend the rest of the day relaxing as you recover from your long flight, or leisurely see the sights of the city on your own. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 Makati, Manila After your buffet breakfast, begin your journey exploring Manila – the capital of the Philippines. The tour begins in the bustling city of Makati, the financial district of the country. Drive through Forbes Park known as the Millionaire’s Row and the American Cemetery, largest cemetery in the Pacific for U.S. personnel killed during World War II. Your next stop is the “Walled City” of Intramuros where you can relive the bygone days of the Philippines’ Spanish colonization. Nearby lies the San Agustin Church, the Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago. Continue your journey to the Rizal Park where you can see the monument of the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Revel in the night as you dine at Zamboanga Restaurant for authentic Filipino dishes while watching a cultural show.

Day 3 Manila, Tagaytay Not too far from Manila is the city of Tagaytay where the world’s smallest volcano is found – the Taal Volcano. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it consists of an island in Lake Taal, which is situated within a caldera formed by an earlier, very powerful eruption. Visit Sonya’s Garden, a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation tucked in the gentle rolling hills of Tagaytay. Here you may opt for a relaxing spa treatment (not included) before returning to your hotel in Manila.

Day 4 Corregidor Island, Manila Today you have the opportunity to see Gen. Douglas McArthur’s headquarters in the Pacific during World War II, the Corregidor

Island also known as “The Rock.” The silent big guns, untouched ruins, structures and tunnels in the island recount a moving story on how American and Filipino soldiers fought for freedom. Return to Manila and spend a night at the hotel.

Day 5 Laoag After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Laoag.

Upon arrival, a local representative takes you on an historical tour of the city. Visit the Marcos Museum and Mausoleum, where you may view the embalmed remains of the late Ferdinand Marcos. The next stop is the Museo Ilocos Norte to learn more about the Ilocano culture. Your tour continues to the Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a unique mixture of baroque and oriental architectural styles constructed in 1704 out of coral blocks and stucco plastered bricks. Lastly visit the St. William’s Cathedral with the famous Sinking Bell tower before checking in to your hotel in Laoag. The evening is yours at leisure to relax and unwind.

Day 6 Laoag, Vigan Step back in time as this day brings you to Vigan, a “Living Museum” of Filipino-Spanish-Chinese architectural heritage.

The well-preserved historic century-old structures and unique cobblestone streets has given Vigan a spot as a World Heritage Site.

Return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the town on your own.

Day 7 Manila Prepare to return to Manila after breakfast. Upon arrival you are transferred to the hotel in Manila. The rest of the day is yours to catch up on last minute shopping or sightseeing. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8 Manila Transfer to the Ninoy Aquino International airport for your flight back home or continue your journey with one or more of our optional extension tours.

Philippines

Experience Philippines’ natural wonders, colorful history and warm hospitality

Nights 8 Days

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South Africa

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The Wild Wine Odyssey Day 1

Experience the magnificent wines and the magical wilderness of South Africa

Cape Town Receive assistance upon arrival at the airport and a transfer to your hotel, where you may relax and unwind after your long flight.

Day 2 Cape Town Enjoy the natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula during your private full day Cape Point Tour. The route follows the coast around the Atlantic Seaboard to Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak, and down to Cape Point itself. Experience a lavish seafood extravaganza for lunch followed by visits to the African Penguin colony and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Day 3 Cape Town, Durbanville Today’s destination is a wine region located right on Cape Town’s doorstep, Durbanville, often called the secret wine valley of the Cape. Take a 2-hour game drive at Clara Anna Fontein though the ‘rhinoceros field’ conservation area before a lovely wine tasting at Altydgedacht, one of the more traditional farms. Move on to the state-of -the-art Durbanville Cellars and then to Nitida for a late afternoon wine tasting. Stay overnight at Calra Anna Fontein.

Day 4 Darling, Durbanville Move further up to the coast to visit the charming little village of darling and feel the cool Atlantic breezes at the Ormonde wine estate while sipping a superb Sauvignon Blanc and eating olives that are also produced on the farm. Descend down into the valley to Cloof and finally to the 18th century farm of Groote Post for a sampling of deliciously drinkable wines. Check in to an idyllic lodge and spend the rest of your day exploring Darling.

Day 5 Riebeek-Kasteel, Citrusdal Continue inland to the picturesque Riebeek Valley, Shriaz country, where you’ll be introduced to both the wines and the olives that the region is renowned. Enjoy the “ultimate olives experience” at Riebeek Kasteel’s Olive Boutique and then have wine tasting in Kloovenburg’s cool, quite cellar. Drive to the village of Tulbagh and embark on a cellar tour at Twee Jonge Gezellen Farm before returning to Riebeek West.

Day 6 Citrusdal, Cederberg Region

Take a break from wine for the day and focus on the magnificent natural beauty of the Cape West Coast mountains and the picturesque Oliphants River Valley. Meander through Citrusdal on your way to Clanwilliam for a rooibos tea sampling. Travel the rough and winding road to the 5-star Bushmans Kloof just in time for a sunset nature drive into the very heart of the mysterious Cederberg.

Day 7 Cederberg Region, Vredendal This morning take a drive and a short hike through the fynbos to secret caves with ancient San rock art for which the Cederberg area is renowned. Arrive in Vrendendal for lunch and wine tasting at Lutzville Vineyards and the restored stables of Wilgenhof.

Enjoy yet another wine tasting at Melkboomsdrift, where you are accommodated overnight.

Day 8 Strandfontein, Vredendal Take an early morning drive to Stellar Organic and then Klawer Wine Cellar, for a wine tasting and lunch. Next up is Stoumann’s, the first and only privately owned estate in the valley where you can also visit the farm’s tortoise sanctuary. Travel further along the coast to Strandfontein for a visit to the world’s closest vineyard to the sea at Fryer’s Cove and return to Melkboomsdrift later in the day.

Day 9 Lamberts Bay, Cape Town Start on your return journey to Cape Town, heading back down the coast to Lamberts Bay. Enjoy a long, lazy lunch at the fishing harbor of Saldanha Bay, featuring some of the West Coast’s most sought after seafood dishes served right on the beach, with mussel shells as spoons. Continue to the scenic drive back to Cape Town and spend the remainder of your night at leisure in the city.

Day 10 Cape Town Transfer to the airport for your departure flight home or to your next exciting destination.

Nights 10 Days

Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

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Palace Tours Exotic Destination

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South Africa

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The Garden Route Day 1 Cape Town, Oudtshoorn

You are met upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport or at your hotel in Cape Town. Begin your Garden Route experience with a drive to Outdshoorn for a visit to one of the ostrich farms for which the region is known. Learn the colorful history behind the farm, the ostriches, and about the “feather barons” of the early 20th century on your guided tour. Later, check into your hotel in Oudtshoorn for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2 Oudtshoorn, George, Knysna Depart Oudtshoorn this morning after breakfast and travel via the scenic Outeniqua Pass to Knysna, visiting Cango Caves and the Wildlife Ranch en route. The Cango Caves are among the biggest stalagmite formations in the world; here you can explore the extensive subterranean caverns and marvel at the impressive formations. The Cango Wildlife Ranch and its breeding center is carefully designed so that its more than 47 species of animals and reptiles can roam peacefully in comfortable natural enclosures, giving visitors the opportunity to closely observe, and in some cases, interact with a wide variety of unusual and endangered animals including crocodiles and cheetahs. Continue the drive towards Knysna, one of the Southern Cape coast’s best known holiday destinations and South Africa’s ‘Oyster Capital’. The most well known attraction is the Knysna Heads, two great sandstone cliffs

guarding the mouth of the lagoon which connects the estuary with the sea. Check in to your hotel, enjoy dinner and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 3 Knysna This morning after breakfast, embark on a fascinating ocean safari where whales, dolphins, penguins and seals can be seen in their natural habitat (weather and sea conditions permitting). Spend your afternoon at leisure at the hotel, perhaps soaking up the sun around the pool. An optional excursion (not included) into Knysna is also available. Return to the hotel for dinner and your last overnight stay.

Day 4 Nature’s Valley, Tsitsikamma, Port Elizabeth Bid farewell to Knysna and travel along the Garden Route through Tsitsikamma National Park. The Park is internationally recognized for its forests which harbor and conserve the giant Outeniqua yellowwood, one of the few true monarchs of the world’s forests.

Tsitsikamma is also Africa’s oldest and largest marine reserve, playing a vital role in the preservation and conservation of marine fauna and flora. Upon arrival in Port Elizabeth, you are either dropped off at your hotel or transferred to the airport for your departure flight home.

Knysna Waterfront

Explore the unique Cape fynbos, wetlands and forests along the Garden Route

Nights 4 Days Nature’s Valley with the Tsitsikamma Mountains on the horizon

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Palace Tours Exotic Destination

22

South Africa

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A Southern African Dream Day 1

Experience South Africa and Zambia

ZAMBIA Livingstone Victoria Falls Chobe National Park

ZIMBABWE

BOTSWANA

Nights 12 Days

Johannesburg Soweto

SOUTH AFRICA Paarl

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Cape Town

Franschhoek

Palace Tours Exotic Destination

Kruger National Park

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Cape Town Upon arrival in Cape Town, our representative welcomes and transfers you to the hotel for a four-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Spend the rest of day at leisure recovering from your long flight or strolling around the Waterfront.

Day 2 Cape Town Enjoy a full day excursion to Hout Bay via Chapmans Peak, Atlantic Seaboard and Camps Bay. Continue on to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and board a funicular to the top of the Peninsula and witness the symbolic meeting of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Travel through the historic naval base of Simon’s town and visit the African penguin-breeding colony at Boulders Beach. Lunch is served at a restaurant in Simon’s Town before making your way back to your hotel in Cape Town.

Day 3 Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl Today a resident Winelands guide joins you for an unforgettable tailor-made experience! Enjoy a scenic and historic drive through the local wine regions in Cape Town and explore the tree-lined streets and historic architecture of Stellenbosch. Proceed to Franschhoek to visit the Huguenot Memorial Museum, then continue onward to Paarl, the “Pearl of the Cape”, and witness the Taal monument. You are treated for a relaxing picnic lunch at Boschendal (picnic lunch is only applicable in the summer months, in winter lunch is enjoyed at the restaurant) before returning back to your hotel in Cape Town.

Day 4 Cape Town Your journey today takes you on an informative community based township tour. Gain insight into the other side of Cape Town, which focuses on job creation via community-based initiatives. Continue to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and board the ferry to Robben Island, a former political prison and leper colony that was recently established as a museum and national monument. On your guided group tour via bus, experience the conditions of incarceration as you view Nelson Mandela’s maximum-security prison cell (Cell 5) and see the lime quarries. Return to the ferry and transfer to the hotel for your last overnight stay in Cape Town.

Day 5 Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Mpumalanga. Upon arrival, you are met at the airport by our representative and transferred to your lodge. Enjoy an afternoon game drive after lunch for a unique experience as you watch the animals with their different habits at each time of the day. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 6 Kruger National Park Receive an early wake-up call for tea followed by a morning game

drive through the Reserve for a chance to catch the animals at their most active and be prepared to see the “Big Five”. Return to the Lodge for brunch and spend the afternoon at leisure or partake in a bush walk with your ranger, or any of the other available nature activities. Around mid-afternoon, depart on a sunset game drive followed by dinner back at the Lodge.

Day 7 Kruger National Park Your safari adventure continues as you embark on morning and evening game drives with all meals and nature activities included at the Lodge.

Day 8 Kruger National Park, Johannesburg Enjoy one final game drive this morning before being transferred to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival, you are met by our representative and transferred to your hotel via private vehicle. After checking and settling in the hotel, the day is yours to freely relax or explore the city at your leisure.

Day 9 Soweto, Johannesburg After breakfast, enjoy a half-day tour of Soweto (SOuth WEstern TOwnship), the largest black residential area in South Africa. Return to the hotel in Johannesburg and prepare for tomorrow’s journey to Livingstone.

Day 10 Johannesburg, Livingstone Transfer to OR Tambo International Airport this morning for your scheduled flight to Livingstone. You are met upon arrival and privately transferred to your hotel for a two-night stay. Later in the evening, prepare for sundowner cruise on the Wild Horizons Zambian Cruise Boat. Return to the hotel.

Day 11 Livingstone After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a privately guided tour of Victoria Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. The falls and the surrounding area have been declared National Parks and a World Heritage Site. Spend some time this afternoon in Livingstone, which was an important town in southern Africa during the first days of European settlement and the beginnings of Colonial rule. Also enjoy a visit to Mukuni Village, a Royal village which was founded around the 13th century and is now home to about 7,000 Leya people. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 12 Johannesburg Check out of the hotel this morning after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Johannesburg or prolong your African adventure for a few more days with one of our fabulous extension tours.

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Spain

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World Heritage Sites from Castile to Extramadura Day 1

Madrid, Toledo An often overlooked gem, Toledo sits majestically above the Tagus River in central Spain. The history of Toledo dates back to Roman occupation (Toletum) circa 192BC, followed by Visigothic rule, Muslim rule and finally the Reconquest of Toledo in 1085AD. Toledo was the capital of the Spanish empire until the mid 1500’s when the royal court moved to Madrid. Toledo was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 for its extensive cultural and monumental heritage and place of coexistence of Christian, Jewish and Moorish cultures. Don’t miss the centerpiece of Toledo, its Cathedral, and the baroque Transparente behind the main altar.

The Cathedral also has a great art gallery with works by Raphael, Rubens, Goya, Titian, and one of El Greco’s major works - The Disrobing of Christ. This morning the group departs Madrid and enjoy the scenic view en route to Toledo where the night is spent.

Day 2 Toledo Toledo was the capital of Spain under the Visigoths and became again when the Christians reclaimed the city. This city best expresses the religious avatars of the Middle Ages from the Visigoth period where the idea of a united, independent and Catholic Iberian Peninsula was emanated to the medieval cohabitation of three religions. Visit the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, Tránsito and Santa María la Blanca Synagogues and the Cathedral. Arrive at the controversial Spanish Renaissance, the Santa Cruz hospital and El Greco. Despite the overlapping of cultures, wandering the narrow streets of Toledo continues to evoke the Mediterranean and Semitic origin of so many Spanish cities.

Day 3 Toledo Continuing along the Tajo River, arrive at the Extremadura mountain range in which the Guadalupe Sanctuary can be found.

The collection of convents with a fortress-like appearance is another key expression of Mudéjar art, the cloister being of particular interest. Its appeal has allowed it to gather works of art through the 18th century. Discover the best pictorial collections of Zurbarán and stroll along the narrow streets to the San Juan Hospital and the adjacent Colegio de Gramática, nowadays a luxurious Parador. The name Guadalupe is reminiscent of a Hispanic-American culture, the neighboring Trujillo best represents the discovery of the Americas.

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Surrounding the 10th - 11th century Arab castle are numerous bastioned estates whose names bring to mind Pizarro, Orellano and Zúñiga. Arrive Caceres where the night is spent.

Day 4 Salamanca Discover the two most interesting Cathedrals of all that are hidden within each other. Continuing along the Silver Route, pass by the Sistema Central mountain range of Castile and León. Spend the night in Salamanca.

Day 5 Salamanca After breakfast, enjoy a morning stroll and enter Salamanca from the south, crossing the well preserved Roman Bridge. Salamanca is now, and has always been, more than anything a university city.

The historical university buildings that have been preserved since medieval and Renaissance times, are unique and many are open to tourists. The homogenous mix of students and visitors beckons you to stroll through its lively streets and indulge in the festive atmosphere. Notable monuments include the Plaza Mayor, the two Cathedrals -from Romanesque to Baroque- the House of Shells, the San Esteban Convent, and the interesting Art Nouveau and Art Déco Museum situated in the modernist Casa Lis. Day 6 Salamanca, Segovia Today discover two monumental cities that are both declared World Heritage sites. Ávila, birthplace to the famous Spanish mystics Santa Teresa de Jesús and Saint John of the Cross, welcomes you with its impressive walls, its Cathedral, the San Vincent Basilica, palaces and family estates -the Veladas, Valderrábanos, Núñez Velas and Torreón de los Guzmanes-, as well as the Monastery of the Incarnation. In the afternoon, visit Segovia and see its spectacular Roman Aqueduct, a jewel of Roman engineering built in the first century. As you walk through the Jewish Quarter, marvel at the Casa de los Picos, the Alhóndiga and the Torreón de los Lozoya fortress. Continue on to the Gothic Cathedral known as the “Lady of Cathedrals” as well as the defensive Alcázar fortress. Spend the evening in Segovia.

Day 7 Madrid After breakfast, you are transferred to Madrid International Airport for your flight back home.

A fascinating tour from Castile to Extramadura in seven days where you are taken back to its origins and relive the colorful history of the past

Nights 7 Days

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Spain & France

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Monuments and Shrines of Northern Spain and South of France Day 1

Explore the spiritual centers of northern Spain and south of France

Madrid, Burgos This morning depart Madrid via air-conditioned motor coach for Burgos. After you have checked and settled in your hotel room, you are free to explore the city at your leisure. The evening is spent in Burgos.

Day 2 Burgos In the outskirts we discover two great monuments of the Cistercian monastery of Las Huelgas, a royal pantheon from the 13th century and the Cartuja de Miraflores, church and burial place for the parents of Isabella the Catholic, Queen of Castile. In the Afternoon, visit the Santo Domingo de Silos and its Romanesque cloister formed by large, historical relieves, meticulous capitals, and the cypress famously sung by poet Gerardo Diego.

Day 3 Burgos After breakfast depart Burgos and travel to the birthplace of St. Ignatius Loyola. Loyola is the territory crossed by two routes of the Road to Santiago and the place where the Virgin appeared on a hawthorn (Arantzazu). It offers interesting points for those who travel without forgetting their spiritual dimension. The evening is spent in Loyola.

Day 4 Lourdes This morning, travel to San Sebastian and enjoy a walk along La Concha beach en route to France crossing international border.

Upon arrival in Lourdes, check in at the hotel and explore the city at your leisure.

Day 5 Lourdes Lourdes is a small market town lying in the foothills of the Pyrenees, famous for the Marian apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes that are reported to have occurred in 1858 to Bernadette Soubirous. At that time, the most prominent feature of the town was the fortified castle that rises up from a rocky escarpment at

its center. Following the reports that Our Lady of Lourdes had appeared to Bernadette Soubirous on a total of eighteen occasions, Lourdes has developed into a major place of Roman Catholic pilgrimage and of alleged miraculous healings. Discover the NeoGothic Basilica, the Rosario Church, the underground Basilica, the Via Crucis and Saint Bernadette’s home. In the evening you may participate at a torch-led procession joined by other pilgrims or attend a Holy Mass (not included; you are requested to return to your hotel at your own should you participate in the evening activities).

Day 6 Lourdes, Barcelona In the morning, travel along the French Pyrenean valleys, crossing the mountain range by way of Andorra. This tiny country has turned into a small commercial enclave. As you enter Spain and arrive in Barcelona, enjoy a scenic tour visiting the grand avenues of the Eixample district with its modernist buildings -notably the homes on the Paseo de Gracia such as Lleó Morera, Amatller, Batlló and Milá- and the Sagrada Familia, masterpiece of architect Gaudí.

Following a stop in another of his better known works, the Güell Park, arrive at the top of Montjuich and witness the magnificent views of the city and the coast. The evening is spent in Barcelona.

Day 7 Barcelona Today, stroll along the vast historical district and discover Santa María del Mar, the Gothic quarter, the cathedral and Las Ramblas and the emblematic pedestrian walkway. Travel to Montserrat, the heart of Catalonia. Montserrat, a peculiar geological formation is declared a natural park, which is picturesque from any angle. Visit the Marian Sanctuary of Montserrat with “La Moreneta” before returning back to Barcelona for dinner and overnight.

Day 8 Barcelona This morning you are transferred to the El Prat Airport in Barcelona for your flight back home.

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Spain & Portugal

Miraculous Shrines of the Blessed Mother Day 1

Madrid, Toledo This morning the group departs from Madrid for a scenic drive en route to Toledo where the night is spent.

Day 2 Toledo Toledo was the capital of Spain under the Visigoths and became again when the Christians reclaimed the city. This city best expresses the religious avatars of the Middle Ages from the Visigoth period where the idea of a united, independent and Catholic Iberian Peninsula was emanated to the medieval cohabitation of three religions. Visit the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, Tránsito and Santa María la Blanca Synagogues and the Cathedral. Arrive at the controversial Spanish Renaissance, the Santa Cruz hospital and El Greco. Despite the overlapping of cultures, wandering the narrow streets of Toledo continues to evoke the Mediterranean and Semitic origin of so many Spanish cities.

Day 3 Guadalupe Continuing along the Tajo River, arrive at the Extremadura mountain range in which the Guadalupe Sanctuary can be found.

The collection of convents with a fortress-like appearance is another key expression of Mudéjar art, the cloister being of particular interest. Its appeal has allowed it to gather works of art through the 18th century. Discover the best pictorial collections of Zurbarán and stroll along the narrow streets to the San Juan Hospital and the adjacent Colegio de Gramática, nowadays a luxurious Parador. The evening is spent in Guadalupe.

Day 4 Guadalupe If the name Guadalupe is reminiscent of a Hispanic-American culture, the neighboring Trujillo best represents the discovery of the Americas. Surrounding the 10th - 11th century Arab castles are numerous bastioned estates whose names bring to mind Pizarro, Orellano and Zúñiga. The number of estates and palaces huddled around the Plaza Mayor of Cáceres and its adjoining streets is so abundant that the visitor feels transported to times gone past.

Located within a walled Almohad Arab district are the Golfines, Toledo Moctezuma, Godoy Carvajal and other palaces. Along the heavily traveled Roman era Silver Route, arrive at the walled city of Plasencia. Walk along the narrow, winding streets around the lively Plaza Mayor and see the notable Mirabel and Carvajal palaces.

Discover the two most interesting Cathedrals of all that are hidden within each other. Return to Guadalupe for an overnight stay.

Day 5 Fátima This morning you depart for Fatima and witness the miraculous shrine. On May 13, 1917, a ten-year old child, Lúcia Santos and her younger cousins, siblings Jacinta and Francisco Marto, were

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tending sheep at a location known as the Cova da Iria near their home village of Fátima in Portugal. Lúcia described seeing a woman “brighter than the sun, shedding rays of light clearer and stronger than a crystal ball filled with the most sparkling water and pierced by the burning rays of the sun. Further appearances are reported to have taken place on the thirteenth day of the month in June and July. In these, the woman exhorted the children to do penance and to make sacrifices to save sinners. The children subsequently wore tight cords around their waists to cause pain, abstained from drinking water on hot days, and performed other works of penance.

Most importantly, Lúcia said that the lady had asked them to pray the rosary every day, repeating many times that the rosary was the key to personal and world peace. The appearance of the Virgin in 1917 transformed the small town of Fátima into the destination of the millions of believers who make the pilgrimage every year and gather on the great esplanade outside the great Neo-Baroque basilica with its colonnades and Chapel of Apparitions. In the afternoon, visit Valinhos and Aljustrel and spend the evening in Fatima.

Day 6 Fátima After breakfast, the day is yours free to spend at leisure to enjoy the spiritual activities in Fátima.

Day 7 Fátima Today you explore the monasteries of Portugal, Batalha and Alcobaca. Batalha is a Gothic Dominican monastery that was begun towards the end of the Gothic period and contains many Manuelino style elements. Its founding commemorates the victory over Castile in the neighboring Aljubarrota in 1385. The Cistercian monastery Alcobaça is the largest church in Portugal, which recalls another victory over the Arabs in 1147. Return to Fátima for an overnight stay.

Day 8 Lisbon After breakfast we travel to Lisbon and discover the different districts of Portugal’s capital, La Alfama, El Chiado and La Baixa with its urban development subsequent to the 1755 earthquake. Visit Belém with the Hieronymites Monastery -pantheon to both the Royal family and Vasco da Gama- in the Manuelino style from the early 16th century. Continue on to the Monument of the Discoveries where every step of the Portuguese history comes alive in our minds and can be easily understood. The evening is spent in Lisbon.

Day 9 Lisbon You are transferred to the Lisbon Portela Airport for your flight back home or to your next spiritual journey.

Exploring the rich history and culture of Spain and Portugal

Nights 9 Days

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Tanzania

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Tanzania Safari Adventure Day 1

A crafted, unforgettable experience

Welcome to Arusha Upon arrival, our representative welcomes you at the Kilimanjaro Airport and transfers you to your hotel or lodge. Rest and relax after your long flight and prepare for the exciting days ahead of you.

Day 2 Tarangire National Park Enjoy an early breakfast and depart for a game drive at Tarangire National Park, Tanzania’s third largest park. The park is known for its majestic baobab trees that dot the landscape, dwarfing the animals that feed beneath them. Witness herds of up to 300 elephants scratch the dry riverbed for underground streams, while migratory wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest and eland crowd the shrinking lagoons. A ‘picnic-style’ lunch is served before an encounter with 550 bird varieties in the afternoon.

Overnight at the lodge.

Day 3 Lake Manyara National Park Today embark on a full day Safari at Lake Manyara National Park, one of the most scenic parks you will see on your journey through Tanzania. The park is a bird lover’s haven with a variety of local species inhabiting the forest. Other animals that populate the park are zebra, wildebeest, waterbuck and warthog. You may also see the tree-climbing lions that find shelter in the branches of trees from the heat and biting flies. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 4 Lake Manyara- Ngorongoro Highlands This morning, after a short briefing at the lodge, you depart for Ngorongoro Conservation Area and hike up to the Empakaai Crater where locks of flamingoes can be spotted. Marvel at the spectacular view of the valley and the snow-capped peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Day 5 Ngorongoro Crater Continue your adventure this morning as your driver takes you to the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest unbroken caldera and the Eight Wonder of the World. The Crater is home to the rare Black Rhino and has its own Soda Lake. Due to the high concentration of wild animals in the crater you are likely to see the lions, elephants, zebras, hippos, flamingoes, jackals, rhinos, antelopes, many birds and other

species. Descend the 600m high crater walls where a picnic lunch is served and the rest of the afternoon is spent viewing the wildlife from the crater floor. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 6 Ngorongoro / Serengeti National Park After breakfast depart for Serengeti National Park stopping at Olduvai Gorge en route. Olduvai is the famous archeological site where the Leakey’s discovered remains of Australopithecus, Homo Habilis and Homo Erectus, bringing crucial understanding of the study of the evolution of human species. From Olduvai, proceed to the great Serengeti, the most famous wildlife sanctuary in the world.

Day 7 Serengeti National Park Today, continue your exploration of the famous Serengeti National Park. This park is undoubtedly the best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world, unparalleled for its natural beauty and scientific value.

With more than two million wildebeest, half a million Thomson’s gazelle, and a quarter of a million zebra, it has the greatest concentration of plains game in Africa.

Day 8 Serengeti National Park Enjoy your breakfast at the lodge followed by a morning game drive in the park. During the rainy months of November through May, you may see thousands of wildebeest and Burchell’s zebra as they congregate in the open grass plains. This area is the starting point for one of the great wonders of the world - the Serengeti Annual Migration. Return to your lodge for a sumptuous lunch and prepare for an afternoon game drive followed by dinner back at the lodge.

Day 9 Serengeti / Arusha This morning after breakfast, enjoy one final game drive before being transferred to Serenora Airstrip for your flight to Arusha.

Upon arrival, our representative meets and assists you at the airport and takes you to the Tanzanite museum where you will discover the gem, which is more rare than the diamonds and found only at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. If time permits, visit the Cultural Heritage Center before you are transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight back home.

Nights 9 Days

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Experience the Migration - The Greatest Show on Earth!

Tanzania

At the heart of the Serengeti ecosystem lies an ancient phenomenon that is the largest movement of wildlife on earth. In pursuit of food and water, over one and a half million wildebeest and half a million zebra and antelope migrate north from the Serengeti to the adjoining Masai Mara reserve in Kenya every year.

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Serengeti National Park

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June December - March: Southern and eastern Serengeti, Southern Loliondo.

April - May: Southern Plains to Moru Kopjes June - July: Central Serengeti to Western corridor August to October: Western corridor to Northern Serengeti

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Thailand

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Golden Triangle Day 1

Explore Bangkok and northern Thailand in one exciting week

Nights 7 Days

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Palace Tours Exotic Destination

Bangkok You are welcomed upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi International Airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the remainder of your afternoon at leisure, relaxing after your long flight or exploring the cosmopolitan city of Bangkok. This evening, you are treated to a delicious dinner with a classical Thai dance show..

Day 2 Bangkok Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, followed by a full day tour of Bangkok’s popular attractions. Your first stop is the Grand Palace, the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards, where you can explore the Coronation Hall, Funeral Hall, and Wat Phra Kaew, the temple containing the famous Emerald Buddha. Next, visit Wat Pho which is the oldest temple in Bangkok and houses the Reclining Buddha, a 45 meter-long statue which depicts Buddha entering Nirvana. Wat Pho is also “Thailand’s first university” and houses a wealth of art. Continue to Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the marble temple, which beautifully fuses Thai and European styles and features an Ubosot covered by Italian marble. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, board a long-tail boat and cruise along the canal to see Thai houses and typical rural life and also visit Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn.

Return to your hotel in Bangkok and stay overnight.

Day 3 Chiang Rai This morning after breakfast, transfer from your hotel in Bangkok to the domestic airport and board your flight to Chiang Rai. Check in to your hotel upon arrival and then enjoy a visit to the Yao and Akha hill tribe villages. Continue onwards to Mae Sai, the farthestnorth trading border between Thailand and Myanmar, and to the Golden Triangle area where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. Enjoy a trip to Chiang Saen, opposite to Laos, which is home to magnificent ruins and temples such as Wat Pa Sak with its well-preserved Lanna style ‘Prathat’. Lunch is served during your tour. Return to your hotel in Chiang Rai and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 4 Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai Embark on a delightful boat trip upstream on the Mekong River, called “Mae Nam Khong.” Visit a Karen hill tribe village en route and return to Chiang Rai via road, with lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue onwards to Chiang Mai by road, traversing the picturesque landscapes, mountains and valleys of North Thailand. Arrive in Chiang Mai and check in to your hotel. This evening, you are treated to a Khantoke dinner, served in the authentic Northern Thai Lanna style. Dinner is accompanied by several performances of local folk dances and music by different hill tribe groups.

Day 5

Chiang Mai Visit Doi Suthep, the famous mountain of Chiang Mai where a panoramic view of the city can be seen from here at 3,500 feet above sea level. While here, take the cable car up to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, the most sacred temple which contains a holy relic of the Lord Buddha. Within the temple are pagodas, statues, bells and shrines, with aspects drawing from both Buddhism and Hinduism.

Later today, visit the workshops of the local craftsmen in the San Kamphaeng area to see how paper parasols and lacquer ware are made. You may also see Thai silk and cotton being woven on handlooms, and factories that specialize in bronze ware, silverware, rattan furniture and jade cutting. Return to your hotel in Chiang Mai and spend the rest of the day as you wish.

Day 6 Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai Depart the hotel and drive to Chiang Dao to visit the Mae Ping Elephant Camp. Here, you can see an elephant performance and enjoy a 30-minute elephant ride through the jungle. Other activities that may be undertaken are bamboo rafting and oxcart riding.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant. Enjoy a visit to an orchid and butterfly farm before returning to Chiang Mai later this afternoon.

Day 7 Chiang Mai, Bangkok Bid farewell to Chiang Mai this morning after breakfast as you transfer to the airport. Board your departure flight back to Bangkok, or fly to Phuket and continue your Thailand adventure for a few more days in paradise.

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Enchanting Escape to Phuket Day 1

Phuket You are welcomed by our representative upon arrival at Phuket Airport and transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is yours at leisure before it is time for tonight’s trip to Phuket FantaSea, located in Kamala at the northern part of the island. This unique cultural theme park is complete with carnival games, handicrafts, shopping and a modern theater. Enjoy dinner followed by the extraordinary show and experience entertainment through history, culture, and folk dance with the wonders of cutting edge technology and special effects.

Day 2 Phuket After breakfast at the hotel, you are met and transferred to the pier at Boat Lagoon. Join a speedboat for your full day excursion to the Phi Phi Islands. Your first stop is Camel Rock to admire the beautiful scenery, and then arrive at Phi Phi Leh to explore the fantastic landscape of Maya Bay, and enjoy snorkeling amidst colorful fishes and the plentiful coral reef. Discover Loh Samah, Pileh cove, Viking Cave and Wang Long, followed by a trip to Monkey Beach to either snorkel or feed the monkeys. A delicious lunch is served at a beachside restaurant. Spend the rest of your day enjoying sea sport activities, explore the fantastic marine life while snorkeling at Hin Klang (south-west of Bamboo Island), and relax on the white sandy beaches at Khai Nai Island. At around 16:30, rejoin the speedboat and head back to Phuket where you are met upon arrival at the pier and transferred to your hotel.

Day 3 Phuket Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and take the following half-day tour either in the morning or afternoon. Embark on a

scenic drive on the island’s gently sweeping bays of golden sand that Phuket is famed for, and stop at a viewpoint overlooking this breathtaking panorama. The beautiful peninsula adjacent to the famous Promthep Cape is an ideal place to view the sunset. A highlight of your day is a visit to Chalong Temple, the largest and most ornate of the island’s temples, where you can see the cast statue of Luang Pho Saem who assisted Phuket’s inhabitants in quelling the Angyee or Chinese coolie rebellions in 1879 during the reign of King Rama V. Visit a cashew nut factory before returning to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours at leisure.

Day 4 Ao Phang Nga National Park, Phuket Depart your hotel after breakfast and transfer to the pier for a delightful long-tail boat ride in and around Phang Nga Bay, part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park. The spectacular scenery includes a mangrove forest, Khao Majoo and the limestone caves at Tham Lod. Also visit Khao Ping Kan and Khao Tapoo, better known as “James Bond Island” for its appearance in the film The Man with the Golden Gun. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at the fishing village on Koh Panyee. On the way back, visit a cashew nut factory and return to the hotel later in the afternoon.

Day 5 Phuket Check out of your hotel this morning after breakfast and transfer to Phuket Airport for your departure flight home or to your next exotic destination.

Thailand

Treat yourself to five days in paradise on an exotic journey to Phuket!

Nights 5 Days Kaeo Yai Island Phromthep Cape and

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