(ZAR) Topdeck | Europe Winter 19/20

2019-20

EPIC TRIPS FOR 18 TO 30 SOMETHINGS

Prices and itineraries valid from 18 January 2019 until 31 March 2020

Experience the magic of Europe's Christmas markets and winter festivals

WE ARE TOPDECK

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A COLLECTIVE OF EXPLORERS WHO ARE DEVOTED TO TRAVEL, WE STRIVE TO OPEN MINDS, SHIFT PERSPECTIVES, LEARN NEW THINGS AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE. OUR BUSINESS IS TO MAKE TRAVEL DREAMS A REALIT Y. OUR PASSION IS TO INSPIRE YOUNG PEOPLE THROUGH LIFE-CHANGING TRAVEL EXPERIENCES.

WHY TOPDECK?

HOW WE TRAVEL

TOPDECK EXPERIENCES

DELICIOUS FOOD

OUR CREW

VALUE FOR MONEY

CONNECT WITH US

FAQS

PICK YOUR STYLE

HOTEL TRIPS

EXPLORER TRIPS

HOSTEL PLUS TRIPS

LIMITED EDITION TRIPS

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We know what works. And we’re not afraid to shout about it.

We refuse to sacrifice quality, independence and freedom, and believe solo adventures should go hand in hand with unforgettable moments with like-minded travellers.

We offer variety, comfort and value for money, and promise a hassle-free holiday loaded with authentic local experiences.

We are lively, curious, knowledgeable and dedicated; driven by the desire to laugh and have fun.

We build the trips. You build the memories.

ARE YOU READY TO DISCOVER WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A #TOPDECKER? LET’S GO.

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03 CONTENTS

WHERE WE GO

WHERE WE GO

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43 Eu rope 4 DAY ICELAND EXPLORER • Visit Iceland’s incredible geysers, glaciers, waterfalls and fjords • Chase the beautiful natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights • Go for a dip in the otherworldly Blue Lagoon geothermal spa

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10 DAY BIG RED TO RED STAR • Wander Tallinn’s fairytale streets on a medieval walking tour • Discover Russia’s hidden stories with an expert local guide • See chandeliers and mosaics in Moscow’s metro stations

14 DAY WINTER BRITAIN & IRELAND • Visit the world-famous Guinness Storehouse in Dublin • Check out the unique rock formations of the Giant’s Causeway • Explore the historic cobbled streets in Edinburgh’s Old Town

18 DAY WINTER GETAWAY • Check out Rome’s big players – without the summer crowds • Lose yourself in the epic winter wonderland of the Swiss Alps • Wander Salzburg’s storybook Old Town with a hot choc in hand

28 DAY WINTER EXPEDITIONosy up in a hotel in the snow-covered Austrian Alps • Cosy up in a hotel in the snow-covered Austrian Alps • See beautiful Lake Bled in all its peaceful, wintry glory • Spend four whole weeks checking out awesome European cities

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WHERE WE GO

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WHY TOPDECK?

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WHY TOPDECK? Unique

Freedom

Our one-of-a-kind included and optional activities in both iconic hotspots and off-the-beaten-track places mean there’s never a dull moment on your trip of a lifetime.

We realise that everyone’s different – which is why our trips offer loads of free time to get out there and channel your inner explorer.

EXPERIENCES

TO EXPLORE

Passion

AND EXPERTISE With over 45 years in the travel industry, a team of passionate Crew and a collection of award-winning trips under our belt, you can be sure we know our stuff.

Lasting

Delicious FOOD

With visits to local restaurants and delicious foodie options on the menu, we’ll ensure your tummy is just as full as your passport.

Value

FOR MONEY From loads of inclusions to our No Tipping policy, we’ve got all the important stuff covered – meaning you have the best trip possible, completely hassle free.

FRIENDSHIPS

Memories fade but Facebook friends are forever. Hang out with other young explorers aged 18-39 and make friendships as warm and fuzzy as your winter jacket.

How We Travel From ferries to big comfy coaches, we’ll make sure the journey is just as fun as the adventure. Ready to make a move? Let’s go.

TOPDECK COACH • Comfy reclining seats, power points and free Wi-Fi (score!)

• The most social way to travel with your Topdeck crew • See the world from the best viewpoint ever

METRO

• Go underground with included Metro passes in some European cities • A super convenient and efficient way to get around • Travel like a local

OVERNIGHT TRAIN

• Watch some awesome Russian scenery whizz by outside the window

• Take the train from St Petersburg to Moscow on the Big Red to Red Star trip

FERRY • A nautical way to get from A to B

• Cosy up and catch some shut-eye before your next big adventure

• On-board bar and shops to keep you and your shipmates occupied • Great #views for those Insta pics

PLUS MUCH MORE That’s not all folks. On our Europe trips, we’ve got even more optional and included ways of getting around (which are pretty awesome if we do say so ourselves). From gondolas in Venice to bikes in Paris, cable cars in the Swiss Alps to canal boats in Amsterdam, don’t say we don’t spoil you.

HOW WE TRAVEL

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TOPDECK EXPERIENCES

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Top deck Exper iences We’ve packed loads of awesome optional and included activities into our trips.

Take a look at some of our faves.

OPTIONAL

HOP ON A DINNER CRUISE IN BUDAPEST

The best way to see Budapest’s treasure trove of awesome architecture, historic monuments and twinkling lights? From the water, obvs! Go all-out fancy as you hit the Danube on a boat cruise with your Topdeck trip mates – de-lish dinner included.

We’ll cheers to that!

SKI THE SLOPES IN AUSTRIA AND BULGARIA

Get ready for some après-ski in the winter playgrounds of Austria and Bulgaria. From adrenalin-raising skiing and snowboarding to people-watching in the chalet, epic experiences await. Live out all your winter dreams – we’re talking snow angels, mugs of hot chocolate and endless photo ops.

AUSTRIA & BULGARIA

Budapest, HUNGARY

OPTIONAL INCLUDED

VISIT SANTA IN LAPLAND

Hear the faint sound of jingling? Put on your cosiest Christmas jumper and prepare to get merry, ‘cos we’re off to the most festive place on Earth – Lapland! Crank the Xmasometer up to the max as you mess around in the snow, make friends with reindeer and pay a visit to the big man himself: SANTA.

INCLUDED

Lapland, FINLAND

CHASE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND

It’s time to grab your camera and warmest winter scarf – we’re chasing the most famous (and elusive) natural light show in Iceland. Northern Lights, we’re ready for ya! Plus you’ve got a group of Topdeckers to make the experience all the more fun.

Reykjavík, ICELAND

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INCLUDED

WALKING TOUR IN ROME

Rome, ITALY

Step back into an ancient world of emperors and gladiators on our walking tour of the Eternal City.

So much history awaits you in Rome (not to mention legendary pizza and gelato).

After you’ve loaded up on Italian carbs, tick off those major sights – from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain. Prepare to be amazed!

OPTIONAL

EXPLORE THE SWISS ALPS

There’s more on offer than just cheese and chocolate in the Swiss Alps. Ready for some epic views? Hop on the Jungfrau Railway and travel up to the highest station in Europe.

Expect incredible mountain landscapes, fairytale towns and snow. Lots of snow.

Swiss Alps, SWITZERLAND

OPTIONAL

OPTIONAL

CHECK OUT THE UNDERGROUND ART IN MOSCOW

Moscow’s metro system may be underground, but trust us – it’s about as far away from the dreary London tube as you can get. Decked out with mosaics, statues and chandeliers, the stations here can only be described as ridonculous. Join us on a tour and see for yourself!

Moscow, RUSSIA

JOURNEY THROUGH THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Feel like you’re heading to Hogwarts with your Topdeck family as you travel through the Scottish Highlands to Loch Ness. Expect movie-like landscapes, snow-capped mountains – and keep your eyes peeled for the mysterious Loch Ness monster.

Scottish Highlands, SCOTLAND

DELICIOUS FOOD

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Delicious Food That epic meal you ate on your trip of a lifetime?

That’s a memory that will stay with you forever. Dig in!

Share your fave foodie moments with us by using #TOPDECKEATS

GLÜHWEIN ACROSS EUROPE Glühwein isn’t just fun to say -­­ turns out it’s fun to drink, too! Fight off the chill and get your cosy on with a cup of the good stuff at traditional Christmas markets throughout Europe. Sweet, cinnamon-y and wine-y, this festive little tipple will be your new winter go-to.

Mmmm, warmth.

FONDUE SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND Get ready for the best cheesy creation ever. Yep, we’re talking about dipping and dunking your way through a warm pot of fondue. Just like those mountain views, cheese fondue in Switzerland can’t be beaten. We’re not even kidding.

DELICIOUS FOOD

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TRADITIONAL ROAST DINNER ENGLAND Have you even been to England if you haven’t had a traditional roast dinner? Head to a local pub on a Sunday and get ready to try roasted meat, potatoes, veggies and the only ‘pudding’ you’ll want covered in gravy.

You’ll soon see.

TRDELNÍK EASTERN EUROPE Eastern Europe is all about scoping out medieval architecture, wandering old towns and tracking down the best street food on offer. Top of our list? Trdelník, a sweet pastry coated in cinnamon and chocolatey goodness.

Are you ready for this?

MACARONS PARIS, FRANCE When visiting Paris, posting a pic of macarons on your Instagram is basically a rite of passage. All. Of. The. Colours! A true French delicacy, these meringue and almond-based sweet treats come in a huge variety of flavours. Lavender, chocolate, lemon, mint, caramel, rose... the list goes on (and on).

PORK KNUCKLE GERMAN BEER HALLS With more lederhosen and dirndls than you can shake a litre-sized beer at, think Oktoberfest, but all year round. Sound like your kinda vibe? Expect a traditional band, pork knuckle with crackling and guaranteed good times. Prost!

OUR CREW

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Ou r Crew Enthusiasm is infectious – and our on-road Crew have it by the bucketload. Passionate, knowledgeable and brimming with insider tips, our Trip Leaders and Drivers make the best travel pals ever.

Trip Leader Thanks to her Italian background, food lover Veronica has scoped out all the best places to taste Italy’s finest. With three seasons as a Topdeck Trip Leader under her belt, Veronica has some amazing local insights and loves visiting new travel destinations.

‘The best part about group travel is meeting incredible people whilst visiting some of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Together you share some once-in-a-lifetime experiences that won’t be forgotten!’

- Veronica, Trip Leader

TOPDECKTRAVEL

Want the inside story about life on the road with Topdeck?

Watch out for Crew takeovers on our Instagram and Snapchat channels!

TOPDECK.TRAVEL

‘Amazing experience. Organised tour with a highly knowledgeable tour guide and highly experienced driver. Would definitely recommend Topdeck!’

- Tahir

Trip Leader

Winter Express, P.51 Ru is a ‘glass half full’ kinda traveller who swapped her corporate job in New Zealand for life on the road as a Trip Leader. She always has a smile on her face and loves relaxing at the beach during her time off.

‘Highlights of my job include: watching people laugh and having a good time!

Except when they’re laughing at my accent every time I say Topdeck.’

- Ru, Trip Leader

‘Our Trip Leader was fantastic. So friendly, knowledgeable, adventurous and made everything exciting and the best that it could be.’

- Brittany

‘My Tour Leader was extremely informative, approachable and friendly and worked so well with the bus driver!

Definitely a trip I would relive again!’

- Olivia

Winter Getaway, P.56

Discover Winter, P.31

Driver

Slaven began working with Topdeck in 2013 – first, leading Topdeckers around the islands of his beautiful nation (Croatia!) as a Sailing Rep before he became a Driver.

‘Being a Driver is a dynamic job and never the same! The people you meet along the way make each trip a new, unforgettable adventure. My favourite Topdeck winter trip is the 28 Day Winter Expedition.’

- Slaven, Driver

OUR CREW

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VALUE FOR MONEY

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Value for Money Check out how you’ll get more bang for your buck with Topdeck.

NO HIDDEN COSTS

Our No Tipping policy means no hidden payments.

The result? More money for fun stuff.

UNLOCK THE HIGHLIGHTS We’ve done the haggling for you when it comes to landmarks, museums, food tours and more.

Go explore!

LOGISTICS: SORTED

Forget the faff.

We’ll get you from A to B in style and organise your accommodation.

Sorted!

INCLUDED MEALS

With plenty of included meals, you can look forward to lots of classic European food throughout your trip.

EXPERT GUIDES ON HAND

Our Trip Leaders and local guides have got all the insider info. Let the memory making begin...

MORE WAYS TO SAVE BOOK NOW

PAY IN

Secure your booking with a low R1,000 deposit

Pay the balance via instalments that best suit you

FREE

ROLLING

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SAVE UP TO

SAVE UP TO

SAVE UP TO

Make changes to your booking at no extra cost

Enjoy a flexible rolling deposit, should you change your mind

PAST PASSENGER MULTI-TRIP DISCOUNT FRIENDS DISCOUNT

Terms and conditions apply to our No Strings Guarantee and More Ways to Save. See page 73 for more information, or visit our website.

CONNECT WITH US

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Connect w ith Us Ready for your Topdeck trip? Not until you’ve downloaded the Topdeck app! With its easy-breezy functionality, travel tools and social media prowess, this little gem will be your new fave travel pal.

TRIP GROUP CHAT

Connect with your fellow Topdeckers before you depart and begin your magical friendship in the flash of a winking face emoji.

BUDGET TRACKER

Keep an eye on your holiday spending, leaving you with more FUN-ds to play with.

Think: elaborate feasts (not questionable supermarket sandwiches).

ITINERARY VIEWER

Get the lowdown on where you’ll be going and what activities you’ll be doing on each day of your trip with this handy little tool.

MAPS

CHECK-IN

...

Plug in all your vital deets and we’ll keep them safe for when you really need them. Making your life easier, one swipe at a time.

Navigate your way to meeting points and lesser-known local gems using pins dropped by your Trip Leader, seek out your own bucket list sites and take to the streets like a pro.

BOOKED YOUR TRIP? DOWNLOAD NOW Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and key in your booking reference to get started.

/TOPDECKTRAVEL

TOPDECKTRAVEL

/TOPDECKTRAVEL

TOPDECK.TRAVEL

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16 FAQS

FAQs HOW MUCH WILL I GET?

free time

All of our trips include both scheduled activities and free time. So, whether you want to spend some time making snow angels or head out on a hike, you’ll have plenty of time to do your own thing.

HOW DOES A SECTOR TRIP WORK?

HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING? Each person is allowed one item of standard size luggage plus a day pack.

The maximum weight of your main bag must not exceed 44lb/20kg – and the size for all bags must not exceed 70cm x 45cm x 25cm. Due to weight regulations for coaches in Europe, passengers with overweight luggage may be asked to offload the excess on the morning the trip departs (eek).

Please also note that small, hard suitcases can’t be taken on board as carry-on luggage – both for safety and comfort!

An example is the Winter Wonder trip, which starts and finishes in London.

This trip is split into two sectors: Parade to Piazzas (London to Rome) and Hadrian’s Path (Rome to London).

If you book onto the Parades to Piazzas trip, you’ll start in London with passengers who have booked the whole Winter Wonder trip – and finish when the trip gets to Rome.

Cocktails, mocktails, beer or water?

Your choice of beverage is completely up to you. While some passengers like to go out for a social drink, it’s not compulsory!

If you book onto the Hadrian’s Path trip, you’ll start in Rome and finish in London along with everyone on the Winter Wonder trip.

Got it? Great!

Look out for this icon throughout the brochure

DO YOU BOOK FLIGHTS?

WHAT VISAS DO I NEED?

Flights can only be booked for passengers residing in Australia and New Zealand.

The best place to find visa information is www.projectvisa.com.

Or, you can contact your local embassy.

CAN I PAY IN INSTALMENTS?

Outside of 42 days before your trip departs, you can pay in as many instalments as you like – just log in to your My Topdeck account on the website or reach out to your travel agent.

WHAT’S MY TOPDECK? Good question! It’s an online hub for your trip admin including personalised trip notes, itineraries and payments.

HOW MUCH WI-FI DO I GET ON THE COACH? Plenty! You’ll get 650 megabytes. The vast majority of our accommodation has Wi-Fi too. If you’re super keen to be online the whole time, here’s a tip for you – get a UK or European SIM card and put some money on it. Job done.

I CAN’T CHOOSE! CAN I DO MULTIPLE TRIPS? You sure can. And get this – by booking more than one trip, you’ll qualify for our multi-trip discount. Yesss!

Not only that, but lots of our trips are designed so that their departure and finish dates link together – so it’s super easy to keep the good times rolling.

CAN I CHARGE MY PHONE ON THE COACH? We have USB sockets on most coaches where you can charge your phone. #lifesaver

What’s the average age on a Topdeck trip?

The average age on most of our trips is 24-26, although this can vary depending on factors like trip style and destination.

HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING WITH ME? It varies! Obvs, there are loads of great souvenirs to be bought and an awesome social scene to get involved in (if that’s your thing). Heaps of your meals are also included, so this really just leaves a few meals and your personal spending to budget for.

Throughout the trip, your Trip Leader will also let you know about optional activities that you can do, such as gondola rides in Venice or excursions up the Jungfrau Mountain in Switzerland – so keep this in mind when budgeting too!

All Topdeck trips are designed for 18-39 year old travellers – so as long as you’re in this age bracket, you’ll fit right in!

I AM TRAVELLING WITH MY PARTNER AND WANT TO DO A HOSTEL PLUS TRIP. IS IT POSSIBLE TO UPGRADE TO A PRIVATE ROOM? Sorry, but it’s not possible to upgrade to a private room with this trip style. On Hostel Plus trips, we have male and female multi-share dorms. If you want to share a private room, we recommend having a look into our Hotel trips – then you can have a double or twin-share room.

HOW DO I GET TO THE STARTING LOCATION? You can find your starting location in your My Topdeck account on the website, or on the Topdeck app. Google Maps and public transport are your best friends!

How many pairs of undies do I need to bring?

x

Fan of hygiene? Bring a pair per day! Prefer the ‘lived in’ feel? Erm, you do you. If you’re going on a super long trip, bear in mind that you’ll have the opportunity to wash your unmentionables (and other clothes) throughout the journey. Now, enough underwear chat – you’re making us blush.

DO PEOPLE USUALLY TAKE AN UMBRELLA OR A RAINCOAT? We asked Nick from our Customer Service Team to field this one. He said: ‘My go to is rain coat, as I like the way it makes me feel – but I have friends who use umbrellas who say the same thing about them. Go with your heart.’

FAQS

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PICK YOUR ST YLE

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Pick You r Style Travelling your way has never been so easy. From hostels to hotels, our trip styles cater to pretty much everyone. Take your pick!

HOTEL Fit for couples and singles looking for that little bit extra, our Hotel trips are just the ticket for those who want more space to kick back and relax.

ACCOMMODATION 3+ STAR HOTELS

TRIP LENGTH 4-28 DAYS

ROOM T YPES SINGLE/TWIN/ DOUBLE/TRIPLE PAGE 20

SKI LODGE, ENGELBERG

HOTEL PARK, LJUBLJANA

HOTEL GRAND MEDITERRANEO, FLORENCE

MOXY HOTEL, GLASGOW

EXPLORER Our Explorer trips are designed to let you discover each region in depth with a small, close-knit group of like-minded travel mates.

ACCOMMODATION 3+ STAR HOTELS

TRIP LENGTH 7-14 DAYS

ROOM T YPES SINGLE/TWIN/DOUBLE/ TRIPLE/ MULTI-SHARE PAGE 36

PICK YOUR ST YLE

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HOSTEL PLUS Get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank. From modern hostels to cosy bungalows, our most social trip style has it all.

ACCOMMODATION HOSTELS/BUNGALOWS/HOTELS

TRIP LENGTH 7-24 DAYS

ROOM T YPES MULTI-SHARE DORMS

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GENERATOR, PARIS

WOMBAT’S HOSTEL, BERLIN

LIMITED EDITION From New Year’s Eve parties to Christmas markets, ski trips to visiting Santa in Lapland, these once-in-a-lifetime experiences are like nothing else.

ACCOMMODATION HOTELS/HOSTELS

TRIP LENGTH 4-14 DAYS

ROOM T YPES TWIN/DOUBLE/MULTI-SHARE

PAGE 62 SAFESTAY, EDINBURGH

WHAT DOES MULTI-SHARE MEAN? Multi-share means you’ll be sharing a dorm room with some of your fellow Topdeckers.

Rooms are split by gender, so it’ll be lads/ladies only!

ST CHRISTOPHER’S AT THE BAUHAUS, BRUGES

HOTEL

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CARDINAL HOTEL ST PETERS, ROME

Fit for couples and singles looking for that little bit extra, our Hotel trips are just the ticket for those who want more space to kick back and relax.

ACCOMMODATION 3+ STAR HOTELS

SKI LODGE, ENGELBERG

TRIP LENGTH 4-28 DAYS

ROOM TYPES

SINGLE/T WIN/DOUBLE/TRIPLE

HOTEL PARK, LJUBLJANA

HOTEL

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DAYS | TRIP NAME

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SECTOR

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| ICEL AND EXPLORER

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| PARADES TO PIAZZAS

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9 DAY

| HADRIAN'S PATH

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| ROMAN TRAIL

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| EASTERN JOURNEY

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1 6 DAY

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What are sectors?

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Sector trips offer you a great way to choose the departure city, set of experiences or journey length that best suits you.

A Sector trip is part of a larger journey, meaning your new friends might continue on after you leave, or you might be joining a trip already in progress.

Look out for this icon throughout the brochure FOSSHOTEL BARON, REYKJAVÍK

4 DAY | ICELAND EXPLORER

HOTEL

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REYKJAVÍK

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

START/FINISH

REYKJAVÍK

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MEALS

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DAY STOP

Gullfoss Falls

Reykjavík

Thingvellir National Park

ICELAND

Blue Lagoon

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: GULLFOSS FALLS, BLUE LAGOON, NORTHERN LIGHTS, REYKJAVÍK

TRIP CODE: EHICJJ S TA R T

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TRIP PRICE OF R15800 TRIP PRICE OF R17900 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R6319

4 DAYS FROM

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ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND. Welcome to the land of fire and ice! Trust us – with landscapes like this, Iceland might as well be on the moon. You’ll have to tear your eyes away from the scenery for now though, ‘cos you’ve got a date with your Trip Leader and fellow Topdeckers to get to! Make your own way to the hotel, then get ready to schmooze. Tonight, a nightlife tour of Reykjavík and a beer tasting are on the cards. What better way to start the trip with a bang? (D) DAY 2 REYKJAVÍK. OMG – we’re off to the legendary Blue Lagoon today! This place sounds like something from a Disney film and looks like something from outer space. The natural geothermal pools here are full of warm water – and today you’ll have the chance to swim around in them. In winter. Outside. Iceland, we love you! As if life couldn’t get any better, wait until tonight. What’s happening tonight, you ask? Only a mission to see the otherworldly Northern Lights!

Visibility can’t be guaranteed, but if you manage to nail that shot you’ll pretty much win at photography forever. (B) DAY 3 REYKJAVÍK. Today we’ll swap natural wonders for city life with a free day in über-cool Reykjavík.

Check out the views from the Hallgrímskirkja church, then hit up the half-submerged City Hall and grab a coffee with half of your body underwater. Surreal, huh? If you're a nature lover, don't miss the optional Golden Circle tour – this baby packs 300 kilometres of awesome Icelandic landscapes. See also: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Thingvellir National Park. Come nightfall, you can look forward to loads of foodie options. Anyone for smoked sheep head or rotten shark? No? Don’t worry – the world’s best hot dog stand is here for you if you’re not feeling adventurous. Oh, and one more thing: the best nightlife starts late. Like, midnight. Ready to bust some moves? (B)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 50 S P E R39 P E R R PE

DAY 4 REYKJAVÍK. Nooooo! It’s over already? Time to say goodbye. But don’t get too upset – you did tick off some epic bucket list items, after all... (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Visit the famous Blue Lagoon ++ Northern Lights tour

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 3 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D) ++ 3 nights in hotels (twin or double) ++ Awesome Trip Leader

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Trip to the famous Golden Circle START MEET BETWEEN 3-4PM IN REYKJAVÍK FINISH APPROXIMATELY 10AM IN REYKJAVÍK

LONDON

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Heidelberg 1 GERMANY

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Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

Florence ITALY

Verona

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VATICAN CITY

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Rome START

Rome

TRIP CODE: EHWWLR S TA R T

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JAN

10

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Driving tour of Paris ++ Local guide in Florence ++ Stay in the scenic Swiss Alps

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Traditional cabaret show in Paris ++ Guided tour of the Vatican City

JAN

G

TRIP CODE: EHWWRL S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 8

NOV

16

NOV

29

NOV

7

DEC

6

DEC

14

DEC

13

DEC

21

DEC

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS 7 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D) 7 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver ++ ++ ++ ++

START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN ROME

DAYS 1-2 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). (D) (B) DAYS 3-4 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. (B,D) (B) DAYS 6-8 FLORENCE TO ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. (B) (B) (B)

This is a sector of the 14 Day Winter Wonder trip (see p.29) and the 20 Day Discover Winter trip (see p.31). Visit our website for more information.

DEC

G

31

JAN

8

FEB

27

DEC

4

JAN

G

7

FEB

15

FEB

21

FEB

29

FEB

6

MAR

14

MAR

2020 G

FINISH

28

10

JAN

18

JAN

17

JAN

25

JAN

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Guided tour of the Vatican City ++ Bike tour of Amsterdam

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS 8 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) 8 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver ++ ++ ++ ++

START FINISH

MEET AT 4PM IN ROME APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

DAY 1 ROME, ITALY. DAY 2 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. (B) DAY 3 ROME TO VENICE. (B,D) DAY 4 VENICE. (B) DAY 5 VENICE TO SALZBURG, AUSTRIA. (B) DAY 6 SALZBURG TO HEIDELBERG, GERMANY. (B) DAY 8 AMSTERDAM. (B,D) DAY 9 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. (B)

This is a sector of the 14 Day Winter Wonder trip. See p.29 or visit our website.

TRIP PRICE OF R23000

TRIP PRICE OF R20400

TRIP PRICE OF R24400

TRIP PRICE OF R21600

TRIP PRICE OF R25800

TRIP PRICE OF R22700

TRIP PRICE OF R27600

TRIP PRICE OF R24300

Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R6899

Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R6113

8 DAYS FROM

9 DAYS FROM

23000

S TA R T

DEC

DAY 7 HEIDELBERG TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. (B)

DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FLORENCE, ITALY. (B,D)

R

FINISH

20

FINISH

13

2020

VATICAN CITY

FINISH

15

2020

2

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 75 S P E R28 P E R R PE

20400

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 67 S P E R22 P E R R PE

HOTEL

8 D A Y | PA R A D E S T O P I A Z Z A S

24 HOTEL

10 D A Y | R O M A N T R A I L ROME

12

PRAGUE

YOUR ROUTE

5

MEALS

1 STOP & STAY

COUNTRIES

10 DAY | EASTERN JOURNEY

WI-FI

SECTOR

BUDAPEST

YOUR ROUTE

DAY STOP

13

BERLIN

MEALS

1 STOP & STAY

4

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

FINISH

Prague

FINISH

Berlin

CZECH REPUBLIC

2

GERMANY

2

Mauthausen

1

Vienna

AUSTRIA

2

Verona

2

AuschwitzBirkenau

HUNGARY

1

Venice

Dresden

Budapest

Lake Bled

Prague

Ljubljana

2

2

SLOVENIA

Kraków

1

POLAND

Český Krumlov

CZECH REPUBLIC

1

2

START

START

Rome

Budapest

ITALY

HUNGARY

TRIP CODE: EHWDRP S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 G

7

NOV

16

NOV

14

NOV

23

NOV

5

DEC

14

DEC

G

9

DEC

18

DEC

G

11

DEC

20

DEC

FINISH

13

DEC

22

DEC

19

DEC

28

DEC

26

DEC

4

JAN

S TA R T

JAN

11

JAN

9

JAN

18

JAN

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Visit Lake Bled ++ Visit former concentration camp Mauthausen

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Tickets to the Sound of Vienna Orchestra

TRIP CODE: EHWXHG

JAN

25

JAN

G

23

JAN

1

FEB

G

30

JAN

8

FEB

13

FEB

22

FEB

21

NOV

30

NOV

G

7

JAN

16

JAN

12

MAR

21

MAR

19

DEC

28

DEC

G

11

JAN

20

26

DEC

4

JAN

23

JAN

1

2020 2

FINISH

16

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 9 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D) ++ 9 nights in hotels (twin or double) ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver START MEET AT 3PM IN ROME FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN PRAGUE

S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH

S TA R T

2020

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Stay in World Heritage-listed Český Krumlov ++ Visit former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Third Reich walking tour of Berlin ++ Local beer tasting in Prague

FINISH

6

FEB

15

G

20

FEB

29

FEB FEB

JAN

G

5

MAR

14

MAR

FEB

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 9 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) ++ 9 nights in hotels (twin or double) ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver START MEET AT 6PM IN BUDAPEST FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN BERLIN

DAY 1 ROME, ITALY.

DAY 1 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. (D)

DAY 2 ROME TO VENICE. (B,D)

DAY 2 BUDAPEST. (B)

DAY 3 VENICE. (B)

DAY 3 BUDAPEST TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. (B)

DAY 4 VENICE TO LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA. (B)

DAY 4 KRAKÓW. (B)

DAY 5 LJUBLJANA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. (B,D)

DAY 5 KRAKÓW TO ČESKÝ KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC. (B,D)

DAY 6 BUDAPEST. (B)

DAY 6 ČESKÝ KRUMLOV TO PRAGUE. (B,D)

DAY 7 BUDAPEST TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA. (B)

DAY 7 PRAGUE. (B)

DAY 8 VIENNA TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. (B,D)

DAY 8 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. (B,D)

DAY 9 PRAGUE. (B)

DAY 9 BERLIN. (B)

DAY 10 PRAGUE. (B)

DAY 10 BERLIN. (B)

This is a sector of the 20 Day Discover Winter trip. See p.31 or visit our website.

This is a sector of the 28 Day Winter Expedition trip. See p.34 or visit our website.

TRIP PRICE OF R19800

TRIP PRICE OF R19800

TRIP PRICE OF R21100

TRIP PRICE OF R20900

TRIP PRICE OF R22300

TRIP PRICE OF R22000

TRIP PRICE OF R23900

TRIP PRICE OF R23500

Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R5939

Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R5939

10 DAYS FROM

10 DAYS FROM

19800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 80 S P E R19 P E R R PE

19800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 80 S P E R19 P E R R PE

10 D A Y | D E M O C R A C Y R O A D LONDON

13

MEALS

YOUR ROUTE

5

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

Berlin

Amsterdam

FINISH

London

ENGLAND

HOTEL

BUDAPEST

25

NETHERLANDS

GERMANY

2

2 Dresden Prague

2

CZECH REPUBLIC

Mauthausen

1 Vienna

2

AUSTRIA

START

Budapest

HUNGARY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BERLIN, AMSTERDAM

DAY 1 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Check out Buda Castle and the views from the Citadella before meeting your new Topdeck family later today. To help break the ice, we’ve got a tasty dinner lined up in a local restaurant.

Here’s to an awesome trip! (D) DAY 2 BUDAPEST. You’ve got a free day to do whatever you fancy. Grab a little ‘me time’ and indulge in a spa treatment at the Gellért Baths, visit the House of Terror Museum or hang with the hipsters at one of the city’s iconic ruin bars. (B) DAY 3 BUDAPEST TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA. Next stop: the City of Dreams, aka Vienna. Famous for its Baroque architecture, musical heritage and the wonder that is the apple strudel (YUM), it’s safe to say that there’s a lot to see here. Go! (B) DAY 4 VIENNA TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. First on the agenda: a sobering visit to Mauthausen, a former concentration camp complex during WWII. Then: hit up a street vendor and stock up on trdelník before a walking tour through the fairytale city of Prague. (B,D) DAY 5 PRAGUE. What’s it gonna be today – clockwatching in the Old Town Square, a wander through the Castle District or selfie time with the statues on Charles Bridge? Whatever you choose, make sure you have some time left to swing by the John Lennon Wall for that photo. (B) DAY 6 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. See ya later, Prague – time to move on to Berlin, where a driving tour awaits. We’ll tick off the likes of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate before tucking into an epic meal at the Hofbräuhaus. Prost!

(B,D) DAY 7 BERLIN. Today is all about you. Kick back with the locals in Kreuzberg, take a close-up look at some of the city’s monuments or let your tummy lead the way to the nearest currywurst stall. Tonight, get ready to go all-out grunge on an optional street art and nightlife tour. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Visit Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna Visit former concentration camp Mauthausen Dinner at Hofbräuhaus in Berlin Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

9 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) 9 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EHWDHL S TA R T 11

NOV

20

NOV

NOV

27

NOV

9

DEC

18

DEC

DAY 9 AMSTERDAM. Take in the wintry canal views on an optional bike ride, then cosy up with hot chocolate, poffertjes and stroopwafels. Tonight, prepare to get emotional as we round off the trip with a farewell dinner cruise. (B,D) DAY 10 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today it's back on the ferry to London. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later. (B) This is a sector of the 20 Day Discover Winter trip. See p.31 or visit our website.

FINISH

G

6

JAN

15

JAN

13

JAN

22

JAN

G

20

JAN

29

JAN

G

13

DEC

22

DEC

27

JAN

5

FEB

15

DEC

24

DEC

3

FEB

12

FEB

17

DEC

26

DEC

17

FEB

26

FEB

23

DEC

1

JAN

G

16

MAR

25

MAR

30

DEC

8

JAN

G

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R20800 TRIP PRICE OF R22000 TRIP PRICE OF R23100

++ Tickets to the Sound of Vienna Orchestra ++ Bike tour of Amsterdam

DAY 8 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. After an orientation tour, you’ll be free to get out there and do the Dam Square, the Royal Palace and the National Monument your way. Then: a cone of hot chips and mayo is calling your name… (B)

S TA R T

2020

18

TOP OPTIONALS

START MEET AT 6PM IN BUDAPEST FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R24700 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R6239

10 DAYS FROM

20800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 80 S P E R20 P E R R PE

10 D A Y | B I G R E D T O R E D S TA R

HOTEL

26

HELSINKI

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

MOSCOW

14

MEALS

3

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

DAY STOP

START

Helsinki FINLAND

1

2

St Petersburg RUSSIA

2

Tallinn ESTONIA

1

overnight train

3 FINISH

Moscow

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TALLINN, HELSINKI, MOSCOW

TRIP CODE: EHWBHM S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

7

DEC

16

DEC

23

DEC

1

JAN

G

11

JAN

20

JAN

8

FEB

17

FEB

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R25800 TRIP PRICE OF R27200 TRIP PRICE OF R28500 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R7739

10 DAYS FROM

25800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 HELSINKI, FINLAND. Visit the major sites and embrace Finnish tradition with a hearty salmon soup (lohikeitto). Or, try ice skating or foodie-stall hopping at Old Market Square before meeting your soon-to-be besties for a group dinner. (D) DAY 2 HELSINKI TO TALLINN, ESTONIA. Ferry it from Helsinki to the Silicon Valley on the Baltic Sea, where Skype was invented and kids start coding at six. Go exploring and check out the only surviving Gothic town hall in northern Europe. (B,D) DAY 3 TALLINN. Go all ‘knight in shining armour’ with a medieval tour of the city (horse not included), or go and see the super impressive Kadriorg Palace (optional). The palace is home to the Kadriorg Art Museum as well. Plenty to get your teeth into. (B) DAY 4 TALLINN TO ST PETERSBURG, RUSSIA. Russia is bigger than Pluto, so it’s understandable that today’s drive is pretty epic. Say Zdravstvujtye (zdrah-stvooy-tee = hello) as we arrive in St Petersburg in time to scope out the Venice of the North on a driving tour. The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is awesome in all its domed and glittery glory. (B,D) DAY 5 ST PETERSBURG. With three million items in the archives, the Hermitage Museum is your morning sorted. It has the largest collection of paintings in the world and guard cats that protect them from rodents. (B) DAY 6 ST PETERSBURG TO MOSCOW VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. Take in the city at your own pace today. Then, why not dial up your inner hipster with a visit to the city’s Street Art Museum? Later, it’s all aboard the night train to Moscow. Get cosy! (B)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 80 S P E R25 P E R R PE

DAY 7 MOSCOW. Bounce into Moscow this morning to roll with the billionaires. The city is home to the largest number of high-rollers in the world. We’ve got a driving tour to give you a good overview of the city. (B,D)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Visit the State Hermitage Museum ++ Guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 9 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) ++ 8 nights in hotels (twin or double), 1 night on an overnight train ++ Baltic Sea ferry ticket ++ Overnight train ticket ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Awesome Trip Leader

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Visit Kadriorg Palace ++ Guided tour of the Moscow Metro START MEET AT 2PM IN HELSINKI FINISH APPROXIMATELY 10AM IN MOSCOW

DAY 8 MOSCOW. Check out Red Square, then on to the Kremlin. Fact: The Kremlin was saved from WWII bombing by disguising it as a normal house. (B) DAY 9 MOSCOW. St Basil's Cathedral in winter blows all those Hans Christian Andersen fairytales out of the water. Gaze up at the onion domes, then go underground to check out some of the 196 beautiful metro stations (optional). Prep that Instagram of yours. (B,D) DAY 10 MOSCOW. Time to say poka (bye) after breakfast. We won’t blame you if you wanna stick around for more though. (B)

14 D A Y | C A E S A R ' S PAT H WAY LONDON

18

7

MEALS

YOUR ROUTE

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

WI-FI

HOTEL

ROME

27

SECTOR

DAY STOP

Berlin

Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS

GERMANY

2

2

FINISH

London

ENGLAND

Dresden Prague

2

CZECH REPUBLIC

Mauthausen

1 Vienna AUSTRIA 2 Budapest

Lake Bled

2

Verona

START

HUNGARY

1

Venice

Ljubljana

SLOVENIA

1

Rome ITALY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: LAKE BLED, BERLIN

DAY 1 ROME, ITALY. The Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon… they’re all here. And now you are too! Whizz around and tick off those bucket list sights before you meet the crew later today. This is gonna be awesome!

DAYS 2-3 ROME TO VENICE. Get ready to go all soppy over Juliet’s balcony in Verona before we say ciao to Venice. On day three, we’ll head out on a walking tour of the city’s greats (take a bow, St Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge) before cranking up the Venetian vibes with a gondola ride on the Grand Canal. (B,D) (B) DAY 4 VENICE TO LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA. Bye, Venice! We’ll make a very beautiful pit stop at the 100% Insta-worthy Lake Bled on our way to Ljubljana today. Then: get ready to warp back to the Middle Ages on a walking tour of Ljubljana Castle and Old Town. Awesome! (B) DAYS 5-6 LJUBLJANA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Feeling ‘Hungary’? You soon will be! On day five, we’ll roll into Budapest just in time for a wander to the Citadella, where the views are next level. On day six, you do you. Check out the Széchenyi Baths, visit Buda Castle or hang with the hipsters at a ruin bar – just make it count! (B,D) (B) DAY 7 BUDAPEST TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA. Next stop: the City of Dreams, aka Vienna. Famous for its Baroque architecture, musical heritage and the wonder that is apple strudel (YUM), it’s safe to say that there’s a lot to see here. (B) DAYS 8-9 VIENNA TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. First on the agenda: a sobering visit to Mauthausen, a former concentration camp complex during WWII. Then: hit up a street vendor and stock up on trdelník before a walking tour through the fairytale city of Prague. On day nine, make sure you swing by the John Lennon Wall for that photo. (B,D) (B) DAYS 10-11 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. See ya later, Prague – time to move on to Berlin, where a driving tour awaits. We’ll tick off the likes of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Dinner at Hofbräuhaus in Berlin ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

13 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) 13 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EHWDRL S TA R T 7

NOV

20

NOV

NOV

27

NOV

5

DEC

18

DEC

DAYS 12-13 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Amsterdam, we’re ready for you!

While we’re here, don’t forget to check out the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House (book these ones in advance!). On day 13, we’ll round off our trip in style: with a super emotional dinner cruise on the canal. (B) (B,D)

FINISH

G

2

JAN

15

JAN

9

JAN

22

JAN

G

16

JAN

29

JAN

G

9

DEC

22

DEC

23

JAN

5

FEB

11

DEC

24

DEC

30

JAN

12

FEB

13

DEC

26

DEC

13

FEB

26

FEB

19

DEC

1

JAN

G

12

MAR

25

MAR

26

DEC

8

JAN

G

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R29800 TRIP PRICE OF R31700

++ Tickets to the Sound of Vienna Orchestra ++ Street art and nightlife tour of Berlin

before tucking into an epic meal at the Hofbräuhaus.

On day eleven, go all-out grunge on an optional street art and nightlife tour. (B,D) (B)

S TA R T

2020

14

TOP OPTIONALS

START MEET AT 3PM IN ROME FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R33500 TRIP PRICE OF R35800 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R8939

14 DAYS FROM

29800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 14 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today it's back on the ferry to London. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later. (B) This is a sector of the 20 Day Discover Winter trip. See p.31 or visit our website.

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 29 S P E R21 P E R R PE

14 D A Y | W I N T E R S P R E E

HOTEL

28

MUNICH

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

18

LONDON

6

MEALS

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

Amsterdam

Berlin

NETHERLANDS FINISH

2

2

London

ENGLAND

Dresden

AuschwitzBirkenau

2 Prague 1

START

Munich

GERMANY

1

Český Krumlov

2 Kraków

CZECH REPUBLIC

POLAND

2 Lake Bled

Budapest

1

HUNGARY

Ljubljana SLOVENIA

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: KRAKÓW

TRIP CODE: EHWXUL S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

19

NOV

2

DEC

G

5

JAN

18

JAN

G

17

DEC

30

DEC

G

9

JAN

22

JAN

G

24

DEC

6

JAN

21

JAN

3

FEB

G

4

FEB

17

FEB

18

FEB

2

MAR

3

MAR

16

MAR

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R27800 TRIP PRICE OF R29700 TRIP PRICE OF R31600 TRIP PRICE OF R33800 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R8339

14 DAYS FROM

27800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 MUNICH, GERMANY. Welcome to Munich!

Have a wander around before meeting the group tonight. Be sure to get your hands on some beer this evening. Prost!

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 86 S P E R19 P E R R PE

DAY 2 MUNICH TO LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA. Kick things off in Ljubljana with a guided tour then make your way around Europe’s last undiscovered fairytale. (B)

DAY 3 LJUBLJANA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Haven’t heard of ruin bars yet? You’ll get to know them soon enough. Feel free to hit the town tonight for some signature European nightlife with a hipster twist. (B,D) DAY 4 BUDAPEST. Opt to visit the Széchenyi thermal baths. Relax and then get right back out there. We told you Budapest was a good time, right? (B) DAY 5 BUDAPEST TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. Take the scenic route through Slovakia to Kraków and then get your bearings on a walking tour. (B) DAY 6 KRAKÓW. Be sure to check out Kazimierz, the Old Jewish quarter. Labyrinthine streets, markets, bars and cafés – this is where the cool kids hang out. (B) DAY 7 KRAKÓW TO ČESKÝ KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC. Put things into perspective with a visit to the former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Then continue on with a night in World Heritagelisted Český Krumlov. (B,D) DAY 8 ČESKÝ KRUMLOV TO PRAGUE. Prague next.

Explore the city on foot, then find out why this city is known for its nightlife. (B,D) DAY 9 PRAGUE. Check out the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square or the Astronomical Clock on your free day. (B) DAY 10 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. See the phoenix-like city of Dresden – rising from war ashes and now a must-see. Then find out why everyone wants to be in Berlin, aka one of the coolest cities in Europe. (B,D) DAY 11 BERLIN. Take the optional Third Reich walking tour, stroll under the Brandenburg Gate and get a feel for the city. Hit the town tonight to see what all the fuss is about. (B) DAY 12 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Eat mayo-dipped fries, explore the city or wander the pretty canals. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Visit former concentration camp AuschwitzBirkenau ++ Stay in World Heritage-listed Český Krumlov ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

13 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) 13 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Third Reich walking tour in Berlin ++ Bike tour of Amsterdam START MEET AT 5PM IN MUNICH FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

DAY 13 AMSTERDAM. Visit the city by bike (optional) then do your own thing for the rest of the day. This evening, there’s a canal dinner cruise to round off the trip. All of the selfies! (B,D) DAY 14 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. The trip might be over but there’s always Facebook friends. (B) This is a sector of the 28 Day Winter Expedition trip.

See p.34 or visit our website.

14 D A Y | W I N T E R W O N D E R LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

18

MEALS

7

1 STOP & STAY

COUNTRIES

HOTEL

LONDON

29

WI-FI

DAY STOP

2 Amsterdam NETHERLANDS

START/FINISH

London

ENGLAND

1 Heidelberg GERMANY 2 Paris

Salzburg

FRANCE

1

AUSTRIA

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

2 Verona

Florence ITALY

2 Venice

1

Rome

2

VATICAN CITY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SWISS ALPS, PARIS

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Say au revoir to England and introduce yourself to French food and killer sights with a night driving tour and an included dinner. (D) DAY 2 PARIS. Make like a local and check out the Canal St Martin café scene. Or, tick off the must-see museums, from the Louvre to the Centre Pompidou.

Finish with: cabaret or a river cruise (optional). (B) DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. Gaze out of the window as we roll into the snow-capped Alps today. (B,D) DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. Jump on the revolving gondola to the top of Mt Titlis (optional) and test your pano photo skills. Head back down the mountain for snow angels and Swiss fondue. (B) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FLORENCE, ITALY. Onwards to beautiful Firenze: home of Tuscan cuisine and the real-life watercolour of the Arno River. The evening is yours to explore. (B,D) DAY 6 FLORENCE TO ROME. Check out the postcardperfect views in Florence with a local guide. Then it’s off to Rome. Anyone wanna see the Colosseum or the Pantheon? (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Gondola ride in Venice Local guide in Florence Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

13 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) 13 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossings Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EHWWLL S TA R T

START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

DAY 7 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Visit the Vatican (optional), then #livelikealocal. See: tiny wine bars, street markets, thin pizza dough and stylish Romans dressed to perfection. (B)

DAY 10 VENICE TO SALZBURG, AUSTRIA. Welcome to Salzburg. Enjoy a walking tour of Mozart’s birthplace, then play ‘I spy’ with Salzburg Castle overlooking the city. (B)

DAY 8 ROME TO VENICE. Ah, fair Verona. Channel Romeo and Juliet and re-enact the world’s most famous balcony scene. Then: get ready for island hopping, Venice-style. (B,D)

DAY 11 SALZBURG TO HEIDELBERG, GERMANY. Dial up the Disney with cobblestone streets and a fairytale castle. Heidelberg is also famous for its chocolate shops and cosy bars serving local beer. (B)

DAY 9 VENICE. It’s all about the gondola ride today.

Scope out Venice’s top sights at St Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge. Then, hang out with the locals at Cannaregio. (B)

DAY 12 HEIDELBERG TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Get your bearings on an orientation tour of this vibrant city before trying the local food. On the menu: fries with mayo, poffertjes and stroopwafels. (B)

S TA R T

FINISH 2020

3

NOV

16

NOV

24

NOV

7

DEC

1

DEC

14

DEC

G

5

JAN

18

12

JAN

25

JAN JAN

G

26

JAN

8

FEB FEB

8

DEC

21

DEC

2

FEB

15

15

DEC

28

DEC

G

16

FEB

29

FEB

22

DEC

4

JAN

G

1

MAR

14

MAR

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R35200 TRIP PRICE OF R36800 TRIP PRICE OF R38300

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Scenic excursion to Mt Titlis ++ Guided tour of the Vatican City ++ Bike tour of Amsterdam

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R41000 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R10559

14 DAYS FROM

35200

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 13 AMSTERDAM. Explore the scenic canals by bike (optional) then get your phone ready to capture everything at our farewell dinner cruise. (B,D) DAY 14 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today it's back on the ferry to London.

Say bye to your fellow Topdeckers and start planning the next adventure! (B)

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 15 S P E R25 P E R R PE

16 D A Y | T R A I L T O T H E A L P S

HOTEL

30

LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

MUNICH

20

MEALS

7

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

START

London

ENGLAND

FINISH

Munich

2

GERMANY

Paris

FRANCE

LIECHTENSTEIN

Swiss Alps

1

Austrian Alps

AUSTRIA

2

SWITZERLAND

Milan

Verona

1

ITALY

Pisa

2 Venice

2

Florence Orvieto Rome

VATICAN CITY

2

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MUNICH, SWISS ALPS, AUSTRIAN ALPS

DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. Prepare for Instagram paradise as we head into the fairytale landscapes of the Swiss Alps. (B,D)

TRIP CODE: EHWXLU S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 5

NOV

FINISH 2020

20

NOV

G

7

G

21 4 18

FEB

3

DEC

18

DEC

10

DEC

25

DEC

22

DEC

6

JAN

G

26

DEC

10

JAN

G

JAN

22

JAN

JAN

5

FEB

FEB

19

FEB

4

MAR

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R36900 TRIP PRICE OF R39000 TRIP PRICE OF R41000 TRIP PRICE OF R43900 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R11069

16 DAYS FROM

36900

R

DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. Jump on the revolving gondola to the top of Mt Titlis (optional) and test your pano photo skills. Then, head back down the mountain for snow angels and hot chocolate. (B) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO MILAN, ITALY VIA LIECHTENSTEIN. Strike a pose today as we roll on to the fashion capital of Italy via Liechtenstein. (B) DAY 6 MILAN TO FLORENCE. After THAT shot in Pisa we’re off to Florence. Cosy up, grab a double espresso and hit the streets for some exploring. (B,D) DAY 7 FLORENCE. Your mission tonight: track down the best steak in Florence. But first, we’ll explore the city on foot with a local Italian guide and check out the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo Cathedral and the Uffizi Gallery. (B) DAY 8 FLORENCE TO ROME. Rome, we’re coming for ya! Ready for the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain? They’re all here... (B)

ZAR PER PERSON

DAY 9 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Why not pay an optional visit to the Vatican City? Then, go pizza-hunting in Caesar’s backyard. (B)

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 10 ROME TO VENICE. Off to the home of more than 400 bridges and 118 islands. That’s right, Venice is next! (B,D)

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Say bonjour to Paris. Ease yourself in with a highlights tour and an included dinner.

Welcome to the trip! (D)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 07 S P E R23 P E R R PE

DAY 2 PARIS. Go on a bike ride around the top sights (optional), check out the cabaret in the Latin Quarter (optional) or channel your inner Amélie and go exploring. The city’s all yours today. (B)

DAY 11 VENICE. Burn off some of those calories by exploring the city on foot this morning. Then: cue singing men in water limos taking you down a labyrinth of canals. Viva Italia! (B) DAY 12 VENICE TO AUSTRIAN ALPS, AUSTRIA. Arrive at the home of carbs and adrenalin sports.

Tonight, we’ll kick off in style with tobogganing (optional). (B,D)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Driving tour of Paris ++ Local guide in Florence ++ Gondola ride in Venice

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

15 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) 15 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Traditional cabaret show in Paris ++ Scenic excursion to Mt Titlis START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN MUNICH

DAY 13 AUSTRIAN ALPS. Sing ‘Let It Go’, eat snow, ski down white slopes (optional) or just cosy up with a mug of hot chocolate and enjoy the views. (B) DAY 14 AUSTRIAN ALPS. Take two. Have you built a snowman yet? Go on! (B) DAY 15 AUSTRIAN ALPS TO MUNICH, GERMANY. There’s an early start for extra snow time this morning before heading to Munich for a walking tour.

(B) DAY 16 MUNICH. European winters are long, so the trip doesn’t need to end after breakfast. Group hug it out, then start planning your next adventure. (B) This is a sector of the 28 Day Winter Expedition trip.

See p.34 or visit our website.

20 D A Y | D I S C O V E R W I N T E R LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

27

10

MEALS

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

HOTEL

LONDON

31

WI-FI

DAY STOP

Berlin

Amsterdam

GERMANY

NETHERLANDS START/FINISH

2

2

London

ENGLAND

Dresden Prague

2 2

CZECH REPUBLIC

Mauthausen

FRANCE

2

AUSTRIA

Lake Bled

2 Verona

ITALY

HUNGARY

Vienna

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

Florence

Budapest

1

Paris

1 2 Venice

Ljubljana

SLOVENIA

1

Rome

2

VATICAN CITY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SWISS ALPS, LAKE BLED

DAYS 1-2 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Meet the crew, hop over the Channel and see Paris by night on a driving tour. On day two, go on an optional bike tour or go all-out glitzy on an optional trip to the cabaret. (D) (B) DAYS 3-4 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. Amazing views of the Swiss Alps, coming right up!

On day four, why not take the option to jump on the revolving gondola to the top of Mt Titlis? (B,D) (B) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FLORENCE, ITALY. Say hello to the birthplace of gelato! Tonight, feel free to tuck into Tuscan cuisine and carbs galore at dinner. (B,D) DAYS 6-7 FLORENCE TO ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Today we’ll take on walking tours of arty Florence and almighty Rome – you’ll learn enough about history to smash all future pub quizzes. Anyone for an optional Vatican City visit on day seven? (B) (B) DAYS 8-9 ROME TO VENICE. See Juliet’s balcony in Verona before we say ciao to Venice. On day nine, we’ll head out on a walking tour of the city’s greats before a gondola ride on the Grand Canal. (B,D) (B) DAY 10 VENICE TO LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA. We’re visiting 100% Insta-worthy Lake Bled on our way to Ljubljana today. Then: get ready for a walking tour of Ljubljana’s historic Old Town. (B) DAYS 11-12 LJUBLJANA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. We’ll roll into Budapest for next level views from the Citadella. On day 12, check out Széchenyi Baths, Buda Castle or hang with hipsters at a ruin bar. (B,D) (B) DAY 13 BUDAPEST TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA. Next: Vienna. Famous for its Baroque architecture, musical heritage and delicious apple strudel (YUM). (B) DAYS 14-15 VIENNA TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. First: a sobering visit to Mauthausen, a former concentration camp. Then: a walking tour through the fairytale city of Prague. You’ll love it here. (B,D) (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Visit former concentration camp Mauthausen Gondola ride in Venice Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

19 breakfasts (B), 8 dinners (D) 19 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossings Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EHWDLL S TA R T NOV

20

NOV

DAYS 18-19 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. When in Amsterdam, don’t forget to check out the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House (book these in advance!). On day 19, we’ve got a dinner cruise on the canal. (B) (B,D) DAY 20 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today it's back on the ferry to London. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later. (B)

DEC

G

8

NOV

27

NOV

29

NOV

18

DEC

G

3

DEC

22

DEC

G

5

DEC

24

DEC

7

DEC

26

DEC

13

DEC

1

JAN

G

20

DEC

8

JAN

G

FINISH 15

JAN

2020 3

JAN

22

JAN

10

JAN

29

JAN

17

JAN

5

FEB

24

JAN

12

FEB

7

FEB

26

FEB

6

MAR

25

MAR

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R44500 TRIP PRICE OF R47000

TOP OPTIONALS

DAYS 16-17 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. We’ll tick off the likes of the Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate on a driving tour before an epic meal at the Hofbräuhaus. On day 17, go grungy with an optional street art and nightlife tour. (B,D) (B)

S TA R T 27

1

TRIP PRICE OF R49400

++ Bike tour of Amsterdam ++ Scenic excursion to Mt Titlis START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R52900 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R13349

20 DAYS FROM

44500

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 25 S P E R22 P E R R PE

21 D A Y | W I N T E R PAT H WAY

HOTEL

32

ROME

27

LONDON

MEALS

9

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BUDAPEST, ROME, AMSTERDAM, LAKE BLED

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

storybook landscape with a mug of hot chocolate to warm you up. Either way, you’re winning at life. (B,D) (B) (B)

DAY STOP

Amsterdam

FINISH

London

ENGLAND

NETHERLANDS

Berlin

2

2 Dresden

2 1 Munich

GERMANY

1

DAY 8 AUSTRIAN ALPS TO MUNICH, GERMANY. There’s an early start for extra snow time this morning before heading to Munich for a walking tour.

Get to know the city where beer is king. (B) AuschwitzBirkenau Kraków Prague 2 POLAND Český Krumlov

CZECH REPUBLIC

Austrian Alps

2

AUSTRIA

Verona

Lake Bled

1

2

Budapest

HUNGARY

Ljubljana

Venice

SLOVENIA

DAY 9 MUNICH TO LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA. Give one last prost to Munich before we get to Ljubljana. Travel back to the Middle Ages with a visit to the Ljubljana Castle and Old Town. Tonight, the evening is all yours.

Hit up Metelkova Mesto for a tea or vino with a side of live music and underground art installations. (B) DAY 10 LJUBLJANA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Get a feel for Budapest on a driving tour taking in some of the big names: Andrássy Avenue, Heroes’ Square and Fisherman’s Bastion. Haven’t heard of ruin bars yet? You’ll get to know them soon enough. Feel free to hit the town tonight for some signature European nightlife with a hipster twist. (B,D) DAY 11 BUDAPEST. Opt to visit the Széchenyi thermal baths today. Relax and then get right back out there.

We told you Budapest was a good time, right? (B)

START

Rome ITALY

2

VATICAN CITY

DAY 1 ROME, ITALY. The Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain.

They’re all here. Fire up your Instagram for these must-sees. Yep, Rome is as epic as you imagined.

DAY 3 ROME TO VENICE. First, visit Juliet’s balcony in Verona to join the lovers leaving notes on the wall. Then: Venice. Home to the Grand Canal, pretty Venetian masks and over 400 bridges. (B,D)

DAY 2 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Rome is where the heart is. Visit the world’s smallest country aka Vatican City (optional), hang with the locals, or eat as much pizza and gelato as you can possibly handle. Question is, how many gelato flavours can you try during your time here? Challenge accepted! (B)

DAY 4 VENICE. Burn off some of those calories by exploring the city on foot this morning. Then cue singing men in water limos taking you down a labyrinth of canals. Viva Italia! (B) DAYS 5-7 VENICE TO AUSTRIAN ALPS, AUSTRIA. Austria is bound to impress. Have a go at skiing or snowboarding (optional). Or just take in the

DAY 12 BUDAPEST TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. Kraków’s up next on our Winter Pathway. Check out the largest medieval town square in Europe and loads more on a walking tour. Then, why not brush up on history at Wawel Castle or enjoy the views on the bank of the Wisla? (B) DAY 13 KRAKÓW. Be sure to check out Kazimierz, the Old Jewish quarter. Labyrinthine streets, markets, bars and cafés – this is where the cool kids hang out.

(B) DAY 14 KRAKÓW TO ČESKÝ KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC. Put things into perspective with a visit to the former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Then continue on with a night in World Heritagelisted Český Krumlov. (B,D)

HOTEL

33

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: LONDON, LAKE BLED, MULLED WINE

DAY 15 ČESKÝ KRUMLOV TO PRAGUE. Prague next.

Explore the city on foot, then find out why Prague is known for its nightlife. (B,D) DAY 16 PRAGUE. Check out the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square or the Astronomical Clock on your free day. And that’s just for starters. (B) DAY 17 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. See the phoenix-like city of Dresden – rising from war ashes and now a must-see. Then find out why everyone wants to be in Berlin, aka one of the coolest cities in Europe. We’ll get you started with a driving tour. (B,D) DAY 18 BERLIN. Almost too many choices on this free day. Do culture, do food, do history. Take the optional Third Reich walking tour, stroll under the Brandenburg Gate and get a feel for the city. Hit the town tonight to see what all the fuss is about. It’s awesome here, trust us. (B) DAY 19 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. We’re rocking Amsterdam this evening with a visit to the Dam Square and the Red Light District. After, explore the city some more or wander the pretty canal. (B) DAY 20 AMSTERDAM. Check out the sights and tone your legs this morning with an optional bike tour.

Later, you could also visit the Rijksmuseum or eat as many mayo-dipped fries as possible. This evening, get ready for a farewell dinner cruise. It’s gonna be emotional. (B,D) DAY 21 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. The trip’s over! Too soon to lock in a reunion? Never! (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Gondola ride in Venice Stay in World Heritage-listed Český Krumlov Stay in the scenic Austrian Alps Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

TRIP CODE: EHWXRL S TA R T

FINISH 2020

12

NOV

2

DEC

G

2

JAN

22

JAN

G

DEC

30

DEC

G

14

JAN

3

FEB

G

17

DEC

6

JAN

28

JAN

17

FEB

29

DEC

18

JAN

11

FEB

2

MAR

25

FEB

16

MAR

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R43700 TRIP PRICE OF R46200 TRIP PRICE OF R48600

TOP OPTIONALS

START MEET AT 4PM IN ROME FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

S TA R T

10

20 breakfasts (B), 7 dinners (D) 20 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

++ Guided tour of the Vatican City ++ Skiing in the Austrian Alps

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R52000 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R13109

21 DAYS FROM

43700

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

This is a sector of the 28 Day Winter Expedition trip.

See p.34 or visit our website.

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 81 S P E R20 P E R R PE

28 D A Y | W I N T E R E X P E D I T I O N

HOTEL

34

LONDON

37

LONDON

MEALS

12

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DRESDEN, FRENCH PASTRY, PARIS, BUDAPEST

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

Amsterdam

Berlin

NETHERLANDS START/FINISH

DAY 8 FLORENCE TO ROME. Rome, we’re coming for ya! Ready for the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain? They’re all here. (B)

2

2

London

ENGLAND

DAY 7 FLORENCE. Your mission tonight: track down the best steak in Florence. But first, we’ll explore the city on foot with a local Italian guide and check out top sights like the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo Cathedral and the Uffizi Gallery. (B)

DAY STOP

Dresden

2 Prague Munich

2

GERMANY

Paris

1

FRANCE

1

AuschwitzBirkenau

Český Krumlov

CZECH REPUBLIC

LIECHTENSTEIN Austrian

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

Alps

AUSTRIA

2

Milan

1

ITALY

Pisa

Verona

Lake Bled Ljubljana

1 2 Venice

2 Kraków

POLAND

Budapest 2 HUNGARY

SLOVENIA

DAY 10 ROME TO VENICE. Off to the home of more than 400 bridges and 118 islands. That’s right, it’s Venice next. (B,D) DAY 11 VENICE. Burn off some of those calories by exploring the city on foot this morning. Then cue singing men in water limos taking you down a labyrinth of canals. Viva Italia! (B) DAY 12 VENICE TO AUSTRIAN ALPS, AUSTRIA. Arrive at the home of carbs and adrenalin sports. Tonight we kick off in style with tobogganing (optional). (B,D)

2

Florence Orvieto Rome

DAY 9 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Why not pay an optional visit to the Vatican City? Then, go pizza-hunting in Caesar’s backyard. (B)

2

VATICAN CITY

DAY 13 AUSTRIAN ALPS. Sing ‘Let It Go’, eat snow, ski down white slopes (optional) or just cosy up with a mug of hot chocolate and enjoy the views. (B) DAY 14 AUSTRIAN ALPS. Take two. Have you built a snowman yet? Go on! (B)

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Say bonjour to Paris. Ease yourself in with a highlights tour and an included dinner.

Welcome to the trip! (D) DAY 2 PARIS. Go on a bike ride around the top sights (optional), check out the cabaret in the Latin Quarter (optional) or channel your inner Amélie and go exploring. The city’s all yours today. (B) DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. Prepare for Instagram paradise as we head into the fairytale landscapes of the Swiss Alps. (B,D)

DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. Today you could head up Mt Titlis for some pretty incredible views with your Topdeck crew (optional). Are you ready for this? (B) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO MILAN, ITALY VIA LIECHTENSTEIN. Strike a pose today as we roll on to the fashion capital of Italy via Liechtenstein. (B) DAY 6 MILAN TO FLORENCE. After THAT shot in Pisa we’re off to Florence. Cosy up, grab a double espresso and hit the streets for some exploring. (B,D)

DAY 15 AUSTRIAN ALPS TO MUNICH, GERMANY. There’s an early start for extra snow time this morning before heading to Munich for a walking tour. (B) DAY 16 MUNICH TO LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA. Kick things off in Ljubljana with a guided tour then explore your way around Europe’s last undiscovered fairytale. (B) DAY 17 LJUBLJANA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Haven’t heard of ruin bars yet? You’ll get to know them soon enough. Feel free to hit the town tonight

HOTEL

35

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MUNICH, SWISS ALPS, LAKE BLED

for some signature European nightlife with a hipster twist. (B,D)

DAY 18 BUDAPEST. Opt to visit the Széchenyi thermal baths today. Relax and then get right back out there.

We told you Budapest was a good time, right? (B) DAY 19 BUDAPEST TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. Two countries in one day? Easy. Take the scenic route through Slovakia to Kraków and then get your bearings on a walking tour. (B) DAY 20 KRAKÓW. Be sure to check out Kazimierz, the Old Jewish quarter. Labyrinthine streets, markets, bars and cafés – this is where the cool kids hang out. (B) DAY 21 KRAKÓW TO ČESKÝ KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC. Put things into perspective with a visit to the former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Then continue on with a night in World Heritagelisted Český Krumlov. (B,D) DAY 22 ČESKÝ KRUMLOV TO PRAGUE. Prague next.

Explore the city on foot, then find out why this city is known for its nightlife. (B,D) DAY 23 PRAGUE. Check out the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square or the Astronomical Clock on your free day. And that’s just for starters. (B) DAY 24 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. A quick stop in Dresden. Then, we’ve got a driving tour of Berlin aka the home of rave and currywurst. (B,D) DAY 25 BERLIN. Start off your day with a history lesson at the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie and the Reichstag building on an optional walking tour. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Gondola ride in Venice Local guide in Florence Stay in World Heritage-listed Český Krumlov Visit former concentration camp AuschwitzBirkenau ++ Stay in the scenic Swiss and Austrian Alps ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

TRIP CODE: EHWXLL S TA R T

27 breakfasts (B), 10 dinners (D) 27 nights in hotels (twin or double) English Channel crossings Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Snowboarding/skiing in the Austrian Alps ++ Bike tour of Amsterdam START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

advance). This evening, there’s a canal dinner cruise to round off the trip. All of the selfies! (B,D)

S TA R T

FINISH 2020

5

NOV

2

DEC

G

7

JAN

3

FEB

3

DEC

30

DEC

G

21

JAN

17

FEB

4

FEB

2

MAR

18

FEB

16

MAR

10

DEC

6

JAN

22

DEC

18

JAN

G

26

DEC

22

JAN

G

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R58400

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R61700 TRIP PRICE OF R64900 TRIP PRICE OF R69400 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R17519

28 DAYS FROM

58400

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 28 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. The trip might be over but there’s always round two. (B)

DAY 26 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Eat mayo-dipped fries, explore the city or wander the pretty canals. (B) DAY 27 AMSTERDAM. Explore the city by bike (optional) then do your own thing for the rest of the day. For a dose of history you could pay a visit to the Anne Frank House (just remember to book in

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 86 S P E R20 P E R R PE

EXPLORER

36

MOXY, GLASGOW

Our Explorer trips are designed to let you discover each region in depth with a small, close-knit group of like-minded travel mates.

ACCOMMODATION 3+ STAR HOTELS

THE CONNACHT HOTEL, GALWAY

TRIP LENGTH 7-14 DAYS

ROOM TYPES

SINGLE/T WIN/DOUBLE/TRIPLE

VILLA TORLONIA, ROME

EXPLORER

37

DAYS | TRIP NAME

PAGE

SECTOR

7 D AY

| BRITISH WINTER WARMER

38

•

8 D AY

| WINTER CELTIC TRAIL

39

•

11 D AY

| WINTER BRAVO ITALIA

40

14 D AY

| WINTER BRITAIN & IRELAND

41

What are sectors?

Sector trips offer you a great way to choose the departure city, set of experiences or journey length that best suits you.

A Sector trip is part of a larger journey, meaning your new friends might continue on after you leave, or you might be joining a trip already in progress.

Look out for this icon throughout STAY CENTRAL, EDINBURGH

the brochure

7 D A Y | B R I T I S H W I N T E R WA R M E R

EXPLORER

38

LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

GLASGOW

8

MEALS

2

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

Loch Ness

optional day trip

FINISH

Glasgow

Edinburgh

1

SCOTLAND

1 York 1 Liverpool Oxford START

London

ENGLAND

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EDINBURGH, EDINBURGH, LIVERPOOL

TRIP CODE: EXWULG S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

27

OCT

2

NOV

G

5

JAN

11

10

NOV

16

NOV

G

12

JAN

18

JAN

17

NOV

23

NOV

26

JAN

1

FEB

24

NOV

30

NOV

23

FEB

29

FEB

1

DEC

7

DEC

8

DEC

14

DEC

15

DEC

21

DEC

22

DEC

28

DEC

28

DEC

3

JAN

G

JAN

G= Guaranteed Departure

G

TRIP PRICE OF R14900 TRIP PRICE OF R16100 TRIP PRICE OF R17300 TRIP PRICE OF R18500 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R4469

7 DAYS FROM

14900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 LONDON TO LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND. Let the adventure begin! Visit Harry Potter-esque Oxford with its cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture.

We’ll head to Liverpool for a traditional roast dinner as we get to know the Liverpudlians and their love of The Beatles, footy and nightlife. (D) DAY 2 LIVERPOOL TO YORK. Arriving into York, we’ll scope out York Minster and learn about Viking and Roman history. Later, why not explore the historic walled town for a night to remember? (B) DAY 3 YORK TO EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND. Soak up Edinburgh’s old-world charm as we take you around on a walking tour ticking off some of the top sights.

Later, hit up the city for a local pub feast and take the chance to experience the buzzing bars with your crew on a nightlife tour (optional). (B,D) DAY 4 EDINBURGH. Get under the skin of Edinburgh today and find out why it's much more than its Gothic architecture. Head underground with a spooky tour. Did you just tap my shoulder? If you’re up for it this evening there’s a traditional song and dance performance to go and enjoy (optional). (B) DAY 5 EDINBURGH. We’re spoilt for choice today with a second day in the Scottish capital. Go Loch Ness Monster spotting up in the Scottish Highlands (did we mention the landscape here is unbelievably beautiful?) or check out the views from Arthur’s Seat (both optional). Or just simply stroll through the Old Town for your dose of UNESCO World Heritage amazingness. (B) DAY 6 EDINBURGH TO GLASGOW. You can’t do Scotland without whisky. There’s an optional whisky distillery tasting tour today if you’re up for trying the good stuff. Then, Glasgow beckons. We’ll show you around the city to get your bearings before you take on the nightlife. (B)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 29 S P E R21 P E R R PE

DAY 7 GLASGOW. Cue goodbyes: your trip may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean you have to leave just yet. Soak up Glasgow’s street art, fascinating museums and shopping arcades. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Traditional English Sunday roast in Liverpool ++ Walking tour of Edinburgh

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) 6 nights in hotels (twin or double) Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Nightlife tour of Edinburgh ++ Day trip to Loch Ness ++ Whisky distillery tour in Glasgow START MEET AT 7:30AM IN LONDON FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN GLASGOW

This is a sector of the 14 Day Winter Britain & Ireland trip.

See p.41 or visit our website.

8 D A Y | W I N T E R C E LT I C T R A I L LONDON

9

MEALS

YOUR ROUTE

4

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

Giant’s Causeway

1

Londonderry/Derry Galway

IRELAND

EXPLORER

BELFAST

39

START

Belfast

NORTHERN IRELAND

Newgrange

2

2 Dublin FINISH

Cardiff

WALES

London

2

ENGLAND

Bath

Stonehenge

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: GIANT'S CAUSEWAY, STONEHENGE

DAY 1 BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND. Hello, Belfast!

Hit up the Titanic Museum or hop on an optional Black Cab tour for tales of the city’s troubled past.

Tonight, explore the vibin’ Cathedral Quarter with your fellow Topdeckers. (D) DAY 2 BELFAST TO GALWAY, REPUBLIC OF IRELAND. Big Question. How did 40,000 hexagonal rock columns end up in the same place? Doesn’t matter – the Giant’s Causeway rocks (pun intended).

But in case you were interested, it’s actually the result of a volcanic eruption. Pretty cool, huh? We’ll arrive in Galway tonight, the city that inspired that ridiculously catchy song by Ed Sheeran. (B) DAY 3 GALWAY. A free day to explore in Galway.

Grab yourself some fish and chips in a cosy pub and team up with a beer. Aside from scoping out the street performers, there’s also an option to go and check out the Cliffs of Moher. The definition of rugged Irish coastline, this place is like something out of a movie. (B) DAY 4 GALWAY TO DUBLIN. Take in the scenery on our drive to Dublin, including a visit to the ancient site, Newgrange. This place is older than both Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids. Wow! Tonight, an Irish show after dinner is your chance to taste Irish traditions (optional). If that’s not your thing, soak up the atmosphere in one of Dublin’s pubs. (B) DAY 5 DUBLIN. Check out either side of the River Liffey with a walking tour of Dublin. Get your photo ops at Trinity College and Dublin Castle before a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. After grabbing a pint of Dublin’s finest, we’ll take in next-level views of the city from the Guinness Skybar. (B) DAY 6 DUBLIN TO CARDIFF, WALES. We’ll catch the ferry and roll into Cardiff to find out how many Welsh words you can learn in one night. (B) DAY 7 CARDIFF. Your day, your way. Do culture at Cardiff Castle or watch a rugby match. There’s also Cardiff Market and Cardiff Bay to explore. Oh, and

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Visit the Giant’s Causeway Guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse Visit Stonehenge Visit prehistoric Newgrange

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

7 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) 7 nights in hotels (twin or double) Irish Sea ferry crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EXWUBL S TA R T

DAY 8 CARDIFF TO LONDON, ENGLAND. All good things must come to an end. But not before we visit historic Bath and embrace the mystery surrounding those iconic stones at Stonehenge. Then: the final leg. We're off to London town for teary goodbyes.

Who wants to go again? (B)

FINISH 2020

2

NOV

9

NOV

G

3

JAN

10

JAN

NOV

23

NOV

G

11

JAN

18

JAN

23

NOV

30

NOV

18

JAN

25

JAN

30

NOV

7

DEC

1

FEB

8

FEB

29

FEB

7

MAR

7

DEC

14

DEC

14

DEC

21

DEC

21

DEC

28

DEC

28

DEC

4

JAN

G

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R20500 TRIP PRICE OF R21600 TRIP PRICE OF R22700

++ Visit the Cliffs of Moher ++ Irish night in Dublin

lots and lots of pubs. Tonight, it’s our farewell dinner.

Time to get all the group selfies in! (B,D)

S TA R T

16

TOP OPTIONALS

START MEET AT 3PM IN BELFAST FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R24300 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R6149

8 DAYS FROM

20500

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

This is a sector of the 14 Day Winter Britain & Ireland trip.

See p.41 or visit our website.

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 63 S P E R25 P E R R PE

11 D A Y | W I N T E R B R AV O I TA L I A

EXPLORER

40

ROME

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

1

Milan

ROME

15

MEALS

3

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

DAY STOP

2 Venice Maranello Florence

Pisa

2

San Marino

1 Assisi

Orvieto

2

VATICAN CITY

START/FINISH

Rome ITALY

2 Sorrento

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: VENICE, FLORENCE, ROME, MILAN

TRIP CODE: EXWIRR S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

3

NOV

13

NOV

1

DEC

11

DEC

19 G

JAN

29

JAN

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R28900 TRIP PRICE OF R30100 TRIP PRICE OF R31300 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R8669

11 DAYS FROM

28900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAYS 1-2 ROME, ITALY INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Topdeckers, meet Rome! First things first: we’ve got a date (well, a walking tour). We guarantee it’ll be love at first sight as we take you around to see the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the mighty Colosseum. On day two, why not soak up some more history on an optional visit to the Vatican City? The Sistine Chapel is definitely one for the bucket list.

Don’t forget to say hey to the pope! (D) (B) DAYS 3-4 ROME TO SORRENTO. Ciao Roma, hello Amalfi Coast. This place is made of 100% Pinterest board material – and literary geniuses like Dickens, Nietzsche and Goethe rated it too. On day four, kick back at the seaside or hop on an optional day trip to the ancient city of Pompeii, which was coated in lava when Vesuvius erupted (wayyyy back in 79 AD).

Archaeology = totally awesome. Later, carb up at a restaurant of your choice. Pro tip: follow the sound of live music... (B,D) (B) DAY 5 SORRENTO TO ASSISI. Next stop: the hillside town of Assisi. Here, we’ll meet a local guide and get the lowdown on how the Basilica of St Francis was built without cranes – and just how that roof was painted. Epic! After learning some cold hard #facts, we’ll head out for dinner somewhere local. (B,D) DAYS 6-7 ASSISI TO VENICE INCLUDING SAN MARINO VISIT. First today: we’ll check out the views from San Marino castle AND go full throttle at the Ferrari Museum. Car geeks, rejoice! Later on, we’ll arrive in Venice: the city of canals and picture-perfect bridges. And on day seven? We’ll get to know the floating city a little better on a walking tour. Oh – and there’s a gondola ride to get excited about, too. Don’t say we don’t spoil you! (B,D) (B)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 28 S P E R26 P E R R PE

DAY 8 VENICE TO MILAN. Dust off (and maybe iron) those glad rags today. Milan is Italy’s fashion capital, and the residents know it. Think: €3,000 kneehigh boots and tailored coats. Just saying! Tonight, you’ll be free to explore the city your way. Don’t forget to check out The Last Supper – it’s a Da Vinci masterpiece. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Gondola ride in Venice Wine tasting in Tuscany Visit the Ferrari Museum Local guides in Assisi and Florence

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

10 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) 10 nights in hotels (twin or double) Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Guided tour of historic Pompeii ++ Guided tour of the Vatican City START MEET AT 3PM IN ROME FINISH APPROXIMATELY 4PM IN ROME

DAYS 9-10 MILAN TO FLORENCE. Take the only photo you’ll ever need in Pisa (hello, Leaning Tower), then it’s back on the coach for a journey through Tuscany – with a fancy wine tasting included. Then: we’ll make a beeline for beautiful Florence (the home of gelato, no less). On day ten, a super knowledgeable local guide will take us for a whirl around the city before we sit down to one last Italian feast together.

Get ready to hug it out! (B) (B,D) DAY 11 FLORENCE TO ROME. We’ll come full circle today as we head back to the capital to say goodbye.

But wait! There’s one last stop at Orvieto on the way. Anyone game for a wild boar panini? That’ll be a yes! (B)

14 D A Y | W I N T E R B R I TA I N & I R E L A N D LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

17

MEALS

1 STOP & STAY

5

COUNTRIES

EXPLORER

LONDON

41

WI-FI

DAY STOP

Loch Ness

optional day trip

Glasgow Giant’s Causeway

1

Londonderry/Derry Galway

IRELAND

2

Edinburgh

1

SCOTLAND

Belfast

NORTHERN IRELAND

1 York

1 Liverpool

2 Dublin

Oxford Cardiff

WALES

START/FINISH

London

2 Bath

ENGLAND

Stonehenge

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BATH, EDINBURGH

DAY 1 LONDON TO LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND. Begin your adventure with Harry Potter-esque Oxford.

Soak up the Gothic spires and medieval vibes before we head to buzzing Liverpool for a traditional roast dinner. (D) DAY 2 LIVERPOOL TO YORK. Arriving into York, we’ll check out the magnificent York Minster. Later, why not explore the historic walled town for a night to remember? (B) DAY 3 YORK TO EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND. Soak up Edinburgh’s old-world charm, enjoy a local pub feast and take on an optional nightlife tour with your crew.

(B,D)

DAY 4 EDINBURGH. Get under the skin of Edinburgh today and find out why it's much more than its Gothic architecture. Head underground with a spooky tour. (B) DAY 5 EDINBURGH. We’re spoilt today with another full day in the capital. Go Loch Ness Monster searching (optional) in the Scottish Highlands or check out Princes Street Gardens or Arthur’s Seat. (B) DAY 6 EDINBURGH TO GLASGOW. You can’t do Scotland without whisky. Cue a whisky tasting tour (optional), then Glasgow’s nightlife beckons. (B) DAY 7 GLASGOW TO BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND. Ferry over to Belfast. Hit up the Titanic Museum or hop on an optional Black Cab tour for tales of the city’s troubled past. Tonight, explore the vibin’ Cathedral Quarter. (B,D) DAY 8 BELFAST TO GALWAY, REPUBLIC OF IRELAND. Big Question. How did 40,000 hexagonal rock columns end up in the same place? Doesn’t matter – the Giant’s Causeway rocks (pun intended).

We’ll arrive in Galway tonight. (B) DAY 9 GALWAY. A free day in Galway. Grab yourself some fish and chips and a beer from the local pub before strolling past the buskers on Shop Street. Don’t forget to check out the Cliffs of Moher (optional) and get ready to sing Ed Sheeran all day. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Traditional English Sunday roast in Liverpool Visit the Giant’s Causeway Guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse Visit Stonehenge Visit prehistoric Newgrange

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

13 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) 13 nights in hotels (twin or double) Irish Sea ferry crossings Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EXWULL S TA R T

START MEET AT 7:30AM IN LONDON FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON

DAY 10 GALWAY TO DUBLIN. Enjoy the scenery on our drive to Dublin, including a visit to the prehistoric site, Newgrange. Tonight, an optional Irish show after dinner is your chance to taste the local traditions. (B)

S TA R T

FINISH 2020

27

OCT

9

NOV

G

5

JAN

18

10

NOV

23

NOV

G

12

JAN

25

JAN

17

NOV

30

NOV

26

JAN

8

FEB

24

NOV

7

DEC

23

FEB

7

MAR

1

DEC

14

DEC

8

DEC

21

DEC

15

DEC

28

DEC

22

DEC

4

JAN

28

DEC

10

JAN

G

JAN

G= Guaranteed Departure

G

TRIP PRICE OF R33200 TRIP PRICE OF R35100 TRIP PRICE OF R36900

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Nightlife tour of Edinburgh ++ Day trip to Loch Ness ++ Visit the Cliffs of Moher

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R39500 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R9959

14 DAYS FROM

33200

R

ZAR PER PERSON

DAY 11 DUBLIN. Get your bearings on either side of the River Liffey with a walking tour. Then, visit the Guinness Storehouse and take in next-level views of the city from the Guinness Skybar. (B)

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 12 DUBLIN TO CARDIFF, WALES. Ferry across to postcard-perfect Wales and roll into the capital, Cardiff. (B)

DAY 14 CARDIFF TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today, we stop off in Roman-influenced Bath and mystical Stonehenge before London calls us back. Who wants to go again? (B)

DAY 13 CARDIFF. Do culture at Cardiff Castle or watch a rugby match. Tonight, it’s our last dinner with the group. (B,D)

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 72 S P E R23 P E R R PE

HOSTEL PLUS

42

BALMERS HOSTEL, INTERLAKEN

Get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank. From modern hostels to cosy bungalows, our most social trip style has it all.

ACCOMMODATION HOSTELS/ BUNGALOWS/HOTELS

ST CHRISTOPHER'S, PARIS

TRIP LENGTH 7-24 DAYS

ROOM TYPES

MULTI-SHARE DORMS

WOMBAT'S CITY HOSTEL, MUNICH

HOSTEL PLUS

43

DAYS | TRIP NAME

PAGE

SECTOR

7 D AY

| SOUTHERN RUNNER

44

•

7 D AY

| SPIRES IN THE SNOW

44

•

7 D AY

| WINTER WALTZ

45

•

8 D AY

| WINTER SCANDI EXPRESS

46

9 D AY

| EASTERN LIGHTS

47

9 D AY

| NORTHERN DIRECTIONS

48

•

9 D AY

| MARCH ON ROME

48

•

10 D AY

| WINTER ESCAPE

49

•

10 D AY

| WESTERN RUNNER

50

•

11 D AY

| WINTER EXPRESS

51

11 D AY

| VENTURE TO VENICE

52

•

16 D AY

| WESTERN CORNERS

53

•

18 D AY

| WINTER RHAPSODY

54

•

18 D AY

| WINTER GETAWAY

56

24 D AY

| WESTERN COMPASS

58

24 D AY

| WINTER SPIRIT

60

What are sectors?

Sector trips offer you a great way to choose the departure city, set of experiences or journey length that best suits you.

A Sector trip is part of a larger journey, meaning your new friends might continue on after you leave, or you might be joining a trip already in progress

Look out for this icon throughout GENERATOR HOSTEL, COPENHAGEN

the brochure

HOSTEL PLUS

44

7 DAY | SOUTHERN RUNNER LONDON

8

MADRID

YOUR ROUTE

2

MEALS

1 STOP & STAY

COUNTRIES

7 DAY | SPIRES IN THE SNOW

WI-FI

SECTOR

BUDAPEST

YOUR ROUTE

DAY STOP

8

PRAGUE

MEALS

1 STOP & STAY

3

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

START

London

ENGLAND

Auschwitz-Birkenau

2

2 Paris FRANCE

2 Kraków POLAND

FINISH

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

Loire Valley

2

2 Bordeaux

START

1

Budapest

Bilbao

HUNGARY

SPAIN

1 Madrid FINISH

TRIP CODE: EEWMLM S TA R T

TRIP CODE: EEWSHP

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 20

OCT

26

OCT

17

NOV

23

NOV

G

FINISH

16

DEC

22

DEC

28

DEC

3

JAN

2020

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Driving tour of Paris ++ Bordeaux winery experience

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Seine river cruise in Paris ++ Visit Château de Chambord

S TA R T G

FINISH

12

JAN

18

JAN

9

FEB

15

FEB

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) ++ 4 nights in hostels, 2 nights in hotel upgrades ++ English Channel crossing ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN MADRID

S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 13

NOV

19

NOV

27

NOV

3

DEC

4

DEC

10

DEC

G

FINISH

S TA R T

DEC

2

JAN

29

JAN

4

FEB

29

DEC

4

JAN

5

FEB

11

FEB

12

FEB

18

FEB

26

FEB

3

MAR

18

MAR

24

MAR

1

APR

7

APR

2020 G

2

JAN

8

JAN

6

DEC

12

DEC

4

JAN

10

JAN

11

DEC

17

DEC

10

JAN

16

JAN

18

DEC

24

DEC

12

JAN

18

JAN

22

DEC

28

DEC

17

JAN

23

JAN

24

DEC

30

DEC

22

JAN

28

JAN

G

FINISH

27

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Visit former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau ++ Walking tour of Prague

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Dinner cruise on the Danube river in Budapest

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). (D)

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) ++ 6 nights in hostels ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

START MEET AT 6PM IN BUDAPEST FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN PRAGUE

DAY 2 PARIS. (B) DAY 3 PARIS TO BORDEAUX. (B) DAY 4 BORDEAUX. (B)

DAY 1 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. (D)

DAY 5 BORDEAUX TO BILBAO, SPAIN. (B)

DAY 2 BUDAPEST. (B)

DAY 6 BILBAO TO MADRID. (B,D)

DAY 3 BUDAPEST TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. (B)

DAY 7 MADRID. (B)

DAY 4 KRAKÓW. (B) DAY 5 KRAKÓW TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. (B,D)

This is a sector of the 24 Day Western Compass trip. See p.58 or visit our website.

TRIP PRICE OF R12600

DAY 6 PRAGUE. (B) DAY 7 PRAGUE. (B)

This is a sector of the 24 Day Winter Spirit trip. See p.60 or visit our website.

TRIP PRICE OF R13300 TRIP PRICE OF R14000

TRIP PRICE OF R11300

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

TRIP PRICE OF R11900

7 DAYS FROM

TRIP PRICE OF R12500

12600

R

TRIP PRICE OF R13400

ZAR PER PERSON

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

7 DAYS FROM

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 00 S P E R18 P E R R PE

11300

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 15 S P E R16 P E R R PE

7 D A Y | W I N T E R WA LT Z LONDON

9

3

MEALS

YOUR ROUTE

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

WI-FI

HOSTEL PLUS

PRAGUE

45

SECTOR

DAY STOP Berlin

Amsterdam

FINISH

GERMANY

NETHERLANDS

London

ENGLAND

2

2 Dresden

2 START

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: PRAGUE, BERLIN, AMSTERDAM

DAY 1 PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. Kick off your trip with a bang and go exploring the beautiful city of Prague. You’ve got the Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock and a bunch of cobblestone streets to investigate. Meet the rest of your Topdeck group this evening over dinner. Cheers! (D) DAY 2 PRAGUE. Old school vs. new school on this free day. Think Charles Bridge vs. John Lennon Wall. While you’re here, don’t miss the Castle District views and try some local beers. Trdelník (cake) is always a good idea too. (B) DAY 3 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. See the phoenix-like city of Dresden – rising from war ashes and now a must-see destination. Then find out why everyone wants to be in Berlin, aka one of the coolest cities in Europe. Hint: it might have something to do with the artists and creatives that live here. Get a lay of the land on a driving tour and take notes of where you want to go and explore some more tomorrow.

(B,D) DAY 4 BERLIN. So many choices on this free day. Get those exploring shoes on. You’ve got culture, yummy food and an unparalleled history to dive into. It’s all here. Also: find out why Berlin’s nightlife is some of the best in Europe. Seriously. You’ll wanna come back soon and do it all again. (B) DAY 5 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. We’re rocking Amsterdam this evening with a visit to Dam Square and the area most well-known for its bright lights. Yep, welcome to the Red Light District.

Get your bearings on a walking tour and gear up for your free day in the city tomorrow. It’s gonna be a big one. (B) DAY 6 AMSTERDAM. Check out the sights and tone your legs this morning with an optional bike tour.

You’ll be looking like a local in no time as you weave in and out of the cute streets. Later, you could also stroll along the canal, visit the Rijksmuseum or eat as many mayo-dipped fries as possible. Tonight, we’ve got a farewell dinner cruise. (B,D)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Driving tour of Berlin ++ Walking tour of the restored city of Dresden ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

6 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D) 6 nights in hostels English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EEWSPL S TA R T 17

NOV

23

NOV

1

DEC

7

DEC

8

DEC

14

DEC

10

DEC

16

DEC

G

G

FINISH

JAN

14

JAN

14

JAN

20

JAN

16

JAN

22

JAN

21

JAN

27

JAN

26

JAN

1

FEB

15

DEC

21

DEC

2

FEB

8

FEB

DEC

28

DEC

9

FEB

15

FEB

26

DEC

1

JAN

16

FEB

22

FEB

28

DEC

3

JAN

1

MAR

7

MAR

31

DEC

6

JAN

22

MAR

28

MAR

5

APR

11

APR

G

2020 2

JAN

8

JAN

6

JAN

12

JAN

TOP OPTIONALS

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R12500 TRIP PRICE OF R13200

START MEET AT 5PM IN PRAGUE FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

This is a sector of the 24 Day Winter Spirit trip. See p.60 or visit our website.

S TA R T 8

22

++ Third Reich walking tour of Berlin ++ Bike tour of Amsterdam

DAY 7 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Take all the final selfies before the trip ends back in London.

Who wants to go again? (B)

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R13900 TRIP PRICE OF R14900 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

7 DAYS FROM

12500

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 86 S P E R17 P E R R PE

8 DAY | WINTER SCANDI EXPRESS

HOSTEL PLUS

46

COPENHAGEN

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

COPENHAGEN

11

MEALS

3

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

DAY STOP

Oslo

NORWAY

2 Stockholm SWEDEN

START/FINISH

Copenhagen DENMARK

1

1

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: CINNAMON ROLL, OSLO, STOCKHOLM, COPENHAGEN

TRIP CODE: EEWJCC S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

30

NOV

7

DEC

G

11

JAN

18

JAN

14

DEC

21

DEC

G

25

JAN

1

FEB

28

DEC

4

JAN

8

FEB

15

FEB

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R13800 TRIP PRICE OF R14700 TRIP PRICE OF R15500 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

8 DAYS FROM

13800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 COPENHAGEN, DENMARK. Before meeting your fellow Topdeckers for dinner tonight, spend the day exploring Copenhagen. You’ll soon find out why the city keeps popping up among the top most liveable cities in the world. Take a stroll along the canal to see the brightly-coloured townhouses, get your thrills at the Tivoli Gardens amusement park and go say hi to The Little Mermaid statue. (D)

++ Walking tour of Oslo ++ Walking tour of Stockholm ++ Driving tour of Copenhagen

DAY 2 COPENHAGEN TO OSLO, NORWAY. Today we’re heading north. Oslo, we’re coming for ya! Make sure you grab a window seat and check out those views on the way. Once we get to Oslo, get your bearings on a walking tour and take notes of what you wanna come back and explore on your free days here. (B,D)

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

DAY 3 OSLO. The first of two whole days in Oslo. Want some inspiration for things to do? How about taking the optional visits to the seafaring-themed Viking Ship Museum, Kon-Tiki Museum or Fram Polar Ship? Or, get your ski on at a nearby resort and shred some powder (optional). See you on the slopes! (B) DAY 4 OSLO. More time to explore Oslo today!

Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, make sure you get involved in a spot of skiing (optional). Not your thing? You can always cosy up in the chalets with a mug of hot chocolate and have an ultimate people watching day. (B) DAY 5 OSLO TO STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. You know it for the IKEA hotdogs and meatballs (plus ridiculously good-looking people), but Sweden’s capital also punches way above its weight in terms of design, fashion and multicultural vibes. Get excited for tomorrow’s exploring as you share a dinner with your travel pals tonight. (B,D)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 25 S P E R17 P E R R PE

DAY 6 STOCKHOLM. Get to know Stockholm today on a walking tour. Then, head on over to the maritime Vasa Museum or learn all about the Nobel Prizegiving on a guided tour of Stockholm City Hall, aka the venue of the Nobel Prize banquet (both optional).

Pretty cool huh? (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)

MORE INCLUSIONS 7 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) 7 nights in hostels Øresund Bridge crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Visit The Viking Ship Museum ++ Skiing in Norway ++ Guided tour of Stockholm City Hall START MEET AT 4PM IN COPENHAGEN FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN COPENHAGEN

DAY 7 STOCKHOLM TO COPENHAGEN, DENMARK. Back down south today as we travel to Copenhagen.

Get ready for more gorgeous views playing out of your window: we’re talking about beautiful lakes and forests. Postcard-perfect or what? We’ll sit down to a group dinner this evening after a driving tour of Copenhagen. (B,D) DAY 8 COPENHAGEN. We’re saying bye after breakfast but why not stick around a little longer and see what else Copenhagen has to offer? You won’t be short of stuff to do, we can be sure of that much! (B)

9 DAY | EASTERN LIGHTS BUDAPEST

12

MEALS

5

COUNTRIES

HOSTEL PLUS

PRAGUE

47

WI-FI

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY STOP

START

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

2

2 Kraków POLAND

AuschwitzBirkenau

Vienna

AUSTRIA

1

1

Bratislava

SLOVAKIA

2 FINISH

Budapest

HUNGARY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: KRAKÓW, BUDAPEST, VIENNA

DAY 1 PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. Welcome to Prague! This is one pretty city with plenty to keep you occupied. From the Astronomical Clock to the Castle District and the awesome statue-lined wonder that is Charles Bridge, there’s almost TOO much to see. Get out there and explore! (D) DAY 2 PRAGUE. Oh hello, free day in Prague. Swing by the John Lennon Wall for a profile pic to remember, try trdelník (warm, sugary pastry goodness) or simply kick back and indulge in a local beer or two. Well, it is the festive season, after all... (B,D) DAY 3 PRAGUE TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. Wawel Castle could only be built after a cobbler’s apprentice did the impossible: he slayed a dragon. A city with history like that needs to be explored. Don’t sweat it, we’ll take you through the Old Town and the largest medieval market square in Europe to get you started. (B) DAY 4 KRAKÓW. Look up! St Mary’s near the main square is beautiful. Just wait ‘til you get inside. Want more from your free day here? Why not cruise around the hipster Jewish quarter, visit Schindler’s Factory or dig in to a plate of pierogi? These dumplinglike pieces of deliciousness will have you applying for your Polish passport, stat. (B,D) DAY 5 KRAKÓW TO BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA. We’ll pay a visit to the former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau today. Take the time to reflect en route to Slovakia, where a guided tour of Bratislava awaits. Then, the evening is all yours. Don’t miss the buzzing bar and café scene while you’re here! (B) DAY 6 BRATISLAVA TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA. Mozart, Beethoven and Freud called Vienna home and they left a huge impression on the world. Visit a wiener kaffeehaus (coffee house) before getting ‘Bach’ on track with a performance by a Viennese chamber orchestra (optional). But first, a driving tour. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Visit former concentration camp AuschwitzBirkenau ++ Entry to Széchenyi thermal baths

TRIP CODE: EEELPB S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 12

NOV

20

NOV

3

DEC

11

DEC

G

FINISH

14

DEC

22

DEC

24

DEC

1

JAN

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

TRIP PRICE OF R14300

8 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) 8 nights in hostels Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP PRICE OF R15100 TRIP PRICE OF R15900 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Tickets to the Sound of Vienna Orchestra START MEET AT 1PM IN PRAGUE FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN BUDAPEST

DAY 7 VIENNA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Swap the classical music for the chance to gorge on goulash and langos. New Year’s resolutions haven’t started yet, so no diet excuses here! Get your bearings on a driving tour and settle in. You’re in Budapest, baby!

(B)

9 DAYS FROM

14300

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 8 BUDAPEST. Széchenyi thermal baths in winter?

Ahhh yeah! Relax and unwind here on your free day.

Later, grab your fellow Topdeckers, put on a woolly hat and grab your cameras. Tonight, there’s a de-lish group dinner to look forward to. (B,D) DAY 9 BUDAPEST. Time to go home. Or not! Did we mention it’s ski season and the Alps are right around the corner? (B)

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 89 S P E R15 P E R R PE

48 HOSTEL PLUS

9 DAY | NORTHERN DIRECTIONS ROME

12

LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

4

MEALS

1 STOP & STAY

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

9 DAY | MARCH ON ROME

SECTOR

LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

DAY STOP

Amsterdam

1 STOP & STAY

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

START

ENGLAND

2

London

ENGLAND

4

MEALS

London

NETHERLANDS

FINISH

12

ROME

1

2

Luxembourg City

Paris

LUXEMBOURG

FRANCE

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

2 2 Verona

Florence

2 Venice

ITALY

2

Pisa

Orvieto

START

Rome ITALY

FINISH

Rome

1

TRIP CODE: EEWMRL S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T 31

NOV

12

NOV

2

DEC

10

DEC

VATICAN CITY

TRIP CODE: EEWSLR

2019 4

2

DEC

G

FINISH 8

JAN

2020 12

JAN

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Walking tour of Rome ++ Try traditional Swiss fondue ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Skydiving in the Swiss Alps

20

JAN

S TA R T G

FINISH

27

JAN

4

FEB

24

FEB

3

MAR

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 8 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) ++ 7 nights in hostels, 1 night in a bungalow ++ English Channel crossing ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver START

MEET AT 3PM IN ROME APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON FINISH (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

DAY 1 ROME, ITALY. DAY 2 ROME. (B,D)

S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 31

OCT

8

NOV

14

NOV

22

NOV

21

NOV

29

NOV

23

NOV

1

DEC

28

NOV

6

DEC

5

DEC

13

DEC

9

DEC

17

DEC

11

DEC

19

DEC

G

G

FINISH

FINISH

DEC

22

DEC

16

JAN

24

16

DEC

24

DEC

23

JAN

31

JAN

20

DEC

28

DEC

30

JAN

7

FEB

22

DEC

30

DEC

13

FEB

21

FEB

28

DEC

5

JAN

5

MAR

13

MAR

30

DEC

7

JAN

19

MAR

27

MAR

2020 G

S TA R T

14

4

JAN

12

JAN

9

JAN

17

JAN

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Driving tour of Paris ++ Local guide in Florence

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Traditional cabaret show in Paris ++ Skydiving in the Swiss Alps

G

JAN

G= Guaranteed Departure

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 8 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) ++ 4 nights in hostels, 4 nights in bungalows ++ English Channel crossing ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN ROME

DAY 3 ROME TO VENICE. (B) DAY 4 VENICE TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. (B,D) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS. (B,D)

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). (D)

DAY 6 SWISS ALPS TO LUXEMBOURG CITY, LUXEMBOURG. (B)

DAY 2 PARIS. (B)

DAY 7 LUXEMBOURG CITY TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. (B)

DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. (B,D)

DAY 8 AMSTERDAM. (B,D)

DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. (B,D)

DAY 9 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. (B)

DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FLORENCE, ITALY. (B,D) DAY 6 FLORENCE. (B)

This is a sector of the 24 Day Western Compass trip. See p.58 or visit our website.

DAYS 7-9 FLORENCE TO ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. (B) (B) (B)

This is a sector of the 24 Day Winter Spirit trip. See p.60 or visit our website.

TRIP PRICE OF R17600 TRIP PRICE OF R18500

TRIP PRICE OF R17300

TRIP PRICE OF R19300

TRIP PRICE OF R18300

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

TRIP PRICE OF R19300

9 DAYS FROM

TRIP PRICE OF R20700

17600

R

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

ZAR PER PERSON

9 DAYS FROM

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 56 S P E R19 P E R R PE

17300

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 23 S P E R19 P E R R PE

10 D A Y | W I N T E R E S C A P E LONDON

13

5

MEALS

YOUR ROUTE

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

WI-FI

HOSTEL PLUS

VENICE

49

SECTOR

DAY STOP

Berlin

Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS

GERMANY

2

2

FINISH

London

ENGLAND

Dresden Prague

2

CZECH REPUBLIC

Mauthausen Salzburg AUSTRIA

1

2 START

Venice ITALY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BERLIN, SALZBURG

DAY 1 VENICE, ITALY. Today’s the day your epic trip begins! Join the rest of the crew this evening and get to know your fellow Topdeckers. Say cheers over dinner together and get ready for some exploring tomorrow. (D) DAY 2 VENICE. With so much to see in the floating city of Venice, let us help you tick off some of the best bits with a walking tour. When you stroll past the Grand Canal and St Mark’s Square, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set. Then: hop on the optional gondola ride for stunning views. (B) DAY 3 VENICE TO SALZBURG, AUSTRIA. Music lovers, this is your city! Get your bearings on a walking tour of Salzburg’s cobblestone streets, where you’ll spot Mozart’s birthplace and The Sound of Music film locations. With snow-capped mountains providing the backdrop, you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard. (B) DAY 4 SALZBURG TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. It’s a sobering start to the day with a visit to the former concentration camp Mauthausen. Next up, Prague – where Gothic architecture reigns supreme. (B,D) DAY 5 PRAGUE. An unexpected foodie paradise. Go beyond the beer and check out the foodie treats on offer in the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’. Get your hands around some mulled wine or hot chocolate at Old Town Square and get those festive vibes flowing. (B) DAY 6 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. Off to Berlin via Dresden. Berlin’s fascinating history awaits with a driving tour hitting up all the favourites. We’re talking about the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building. (B,D) DAY 7 BERLIN. Make a visit to hipster-chic Neukölln, Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg for more döner kebabs and currywurst than your Instagram can handle.

There’s also a history walking tour today (optional) and some pretty famous nightlife on the cards tonight (optional). (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Vaporetto ride in Venice ++ Visit former concentration camp Mauthausen ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

9 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) 9 nights in hostels English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EEWGVL S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

G

20

OCT

29

OCT

7

JAN

16

JAN

17

NOV

26

NOV

12

JAN

21

JAN

1

DEC

10

DEC

19

JAN

28

JAN

8

DEC

17

DEC

26

JAN

4

FEB FEB

G

12

DEC

21

DEC

2

FEB

11

14

DEC

23

DEC

9

FEB

18

FEB

23

DEC

1

JAN

G

23

FEB

3

MAR

28

DEC

6

JAN

G

15

MAR

24

MAR

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R15800

TOP OPTIONALS

TRIP PRICE OF R16900

++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Third Reich walking tour of Berlin

TRIP PRICE OF R18000

START MEET AT 6PM IN VENICE FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

TRIP PRICE OF R19300 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

DAY 8 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Get your bearings on an orientation tour of the vibrant capital and see the sights including Dam Square, the Royal Palace and National Monument.

After you scope out the famous Red Light District, end the night with a cone of hot chips with mayo.

Mmm. (B) DAY 9 AMSTERDAM. Take to two wheels to explore the canal-lined city on an optional bike tour. Then it’s time to get ready for our farewell dinner cruise. Take allll the selfies before it’s too late! (B,D) DAY 10 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today the trip ends. But it’s never too soon to start planning your next adventure. (B)

This is a sector of the 18 Day Winter Getaway trip. See p.56 or visit our website.

10 DAYS FROM

15800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 80 S P E R15 P E R R PE

10 D A Y | W E S T E R N R U N N E R

HOSTEL PLUS

50

MADRID

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

ROME

MEALS

4

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP Marseille FRANCE

2

Florence 2 ITALY

1 Rome FINISH

2

Barcelona

1

11

1 Valencia

Madrid SPAIN START

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MADRID, BARCELONA, FLORENCE

try the delicious rice-y stuff the way it’s supposed to taste. Mmmm. (B)

TRIP CODE: EEWMMR S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

26

OCT

4

NOV

23

NOV

2

DEC

22

DEC

31

DEC

G G

3

JAN

12

18

JAN

27

JAN JAN

15

FEB

24

FEB

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R16800 TRIP PRICE OF R17900 TRIP PRICE OF R18900 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

10 DAYS FROM

16800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 MADRID, SPAIN. Hola, Madrid! Before you meet up with the gang this afternoon, make sure you check out the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum and the botanical gardens. And after the sun sets?

Well, there’s plenty of time for a sangria or two in Malasaña or Chueca...

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 80 S P E R16 P E R R PE

DAY 2 MADRID TO VALENCIA. Today we’ll make a beeline for the coast on our way to Valencia, where an epic walking tour awaits. Did we mention this place is the home of paella?

Our suggestion for tonight: hit up a traditional Spanish restaurant and

DAY 3 VALENCIA TO BARCELONA. Oh hey, Barça!

Trust us when we say that this place is BIG. Don’t worry, though – we’ll help you get your bearings on a driving tour before an optional flamenco show tonight. Get your castanets ready. Olé! (B,D) DAY 4 BARCELONA. Ready to see what Barcelona has to offer? Yeah, you are! Make sure you tick off the likes of the Sagrada Família, Gothic Quarter and Mt Tibidabo today – and after a solid day of exploring, get pumped for the city’s epic nightlife. (B) DAY 5 BARCELONA TO MARSEILLE, FRANCE. Today we’ll shine the spotlight on Marseille, a city with a pretty boat-lined quayside, buckets of history and some damn fine architecture to boot. Top tip: try the bouillabaisse. (B) DAY 6 MARSEILLE. Your second day in Marseille is yours to spend however you please, so don’t just sit there – go exploring! Our must-dos? Take a stroll along La Canebière, taste some of the local seafood and watch the sun set over the Vieux Port.

Magnifique! (B) DAY 7 MARSEILLE TO FLORENCE, ITALY. Italy, you’re up! Today we’ll make tracks to Florence: a city with over 1,800 restaurants, more culture than you can shake a sculpture at and the world’s best gelato (hands down). THIS is where your Italian dreams come true. (B,D) DAY 8 FLORENCE. Today, we’ll pace it around town on a walking tour of Florence’s greats. Think: the Insta-worthy Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral and that famous naked statue you may have heard about.

Stop it David, you’re making us blush... (B) DAY 9 FLORENCE TO ROME. OMG. Today is gonna be huge! Get excited, ‘cos our legendary Rome walking tour will very likely help you tick off a life goal or two. Highlights: gazing up at the historic Pantheon, throwing coins into the glittering Trevi Fountain and

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Local guide in Florence ++ Walking tour of Rome

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 9 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) ++ 6 nights in hostels, 2 nights in hotel upgrades, 1 night in a bungalow ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Flamenco show in Barcelona ++ Guided tour of the Vatican City START MEET AT 2PM IN MADRID FINISH APPROXIMATELY 12PM IN ROME

coming face to face with the almighty Colosseum.

Best. Day. Ever. (B)

DAY 10 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. If you’re up for an early start, why not head out on an optional trip to the world’s smallest country (and home of the pope) this morning? After that, our trip will come to a close. Noooo! (B)

This is a sector of the 24 Day Western Compass trip.

See p.58 or visit our website.

11 D A Y | W I N T E R E X P R E S S 16

LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

5

MEALS

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

HOSTEL PLUS

LONDON

51

WI-FI

DAY STOP

Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS START/FINISH

2

London

ENGLAND

1 Rhine Valley

2 1 Munich GERMANY

Paris

FRANCE

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

2 2

Venice ITALY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: PARIS, SWISS ALPS

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Paris in winter = what dreams are made of. First things first: tuck into dinner before a driving tour of the city’s epic sights and twinkly lights.

Trust us, your first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower will be emosh! (D) DAY 2 PARIS. You’ve got a free day in Paris. Sacré bleu! Take to two wheels on an optional bike tour, go see the landmarks up close or simply stock up on colourful macarons. Then: anyone for an optional cabaret show or Seine river cruise? (B) DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. There’s a heck of a lot of #nofilter going on today – so prep that Instagram feed of yours! With snow-capped peaks, crisp mountain air and cute little chocolatebox houses, this place has to be seen to believed. And did we mention the food? (B,D) DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. Wanna take the wow-factor option? Then hop on a train and head up the Jungfrau mountain today. It’s the highest railway station in Europe and the views are what can only be described as ridonculous. You’ll see! (B,D) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO VENICE, ITALY. Next up: the one, the only... Venice! Get excited, ‘cos this place really is as pretty as those Google image searches would suggest. Inside tip: the best local haunts are the ones hidden off the beaten track. Get out there and explore! (B,D) DAY 6 VENICE. Get to know Venice a little better on a walking tour, then see the city from the best angle possible (a vaporetto on the Grand Canal). Ahhhh – this is what public transport should be like! If you fancy it, you can also hop on an optional gondola ride for the full Venice experience. (B) DAY 7 VENICE TO MUNICH, GERMANY. Oh hi, Munich!

This city is world-famous for its beer (Oktoberfest, anyone?), so it’d be a shame not to drink some.

Get your fill of the good stuff at a classic German Wirtshaus (pub restaurant) during your free time this evening. Prost! (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Vaporetto ride in Venice Stay in the scenic Rhine Valley Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

10 breakfasts (B), 6 dinners (D) 10 nights in hostels English Channel crossings Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EEWNLL S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

G

24

OCT

3

NOV

2

JAN

12

JAN

7

NOV

17

NOV

9

JAN

19

JAN

14

NOV

24

NOV

16

JAN

26

JAN

18

JAN

28

JAN

23

JAN

2

FEB FEB

G

21

NOV

1

DEC

28

NOV

8

DEC

5

DEC

15

DEC

30

JAN

9

7

DEC

17

DEC

13

FEB

23

FEB

12

DEC

22

DEC

20

FEB

1

MAR

20

DEC

30

DEC

G

5

MAR

15

MAR

28

DEC

7

JAN

G

19

MAR

29

MAR

G

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R19700

TOP OPTIONALS

TRIP PRICE OF R20800

++ Traditional cabaret show in Paris ++ Skydiving in the Swiss Alps

TRIP PRICE OF R21900

START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

DAY 8 MUNICH TO RHINE VALLEY. Well, there aren’t too many grapes on the vine at this time of year, but it doesn’t matter – the Rhine Valley is still stunning in winter. Anyone for a glass of white? (B,D) DAY 9 RHINE VALLEY TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Welcome to the city of tulips, clogs, windmills... and a certain district you may have heard about. Yep, this is Amsterdam! Top tip: grab a cone of chips and mayo tonight to fight off that winter chill.

Yummy and practical. (B) DAY 10 AMSTERDAM. Fact: Amsterdam is the best city to explore on two wheels – not only for the cool factor, but also because there are no hills. At all! After an optional bike tour, it’s time to raise a toast to our last evening together on a farewell dinner cruise.

(B,D)

TRIP PRICE OF R23400 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

11 DAYS FROM

19700

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 11 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Wave goodbye to the ‘Dam before we hop on the coach back to London Town. (B)

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 91 S P E R17 P E R R PE

11 D A Y | V E N T U R E T O V E N I C E

HOSTEL PLUS

52

LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

VENICE

15

MEALS

4

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

DAY STOP

START

London

ENGLAND

2 Paris

FRANCE

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

2 Verona

Florence

2

Pisa

FINISH

2 Venice ITALY

Orvieto Rome

2

VATICAN CITY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ROME, PARIS, FLORENCE

TRIP CODE: EEWGLV S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

G

12

OCT

22

OCT

4

JAN

14

JAN

9

NOV

19

NOV

11

JAN

21

JAN

23

NOV

3

DEC

18

JAN

28

JAN

30

NOV

10

DEC

25

JAN

4

FEB

4

DEC

14

DEC

1

FEB

11

FEB

15

FEB

25

FEB

7

MAR

17

MAR

G

6

DEC

16

DEC

15

DEC

25

DEC

G

20

DEC

30

DEC

G

30

DEC

9

JAN

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R19900 TRIP PRICE OF R21200 TRIP PRICE OF R22400 TRIP PRICE OF R24000 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

11 DAYS FROM

19900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 10 S P E R18 P E R R PE

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). So long London, bonjour France! Tonight we’ll taste French cuisine with an included dinner and see the most iconic sights on a driving tour of Paris. Ooh là là!

Welcome to Europe’s most romantic city. (D) DAY 2 PARIS. Live it up like a local on your free day in

Paris. Browse atmospheric bookshops in Le Marais, drink espresso in the 10th arrondissement or explore the streets on an optional bike tour. Plus, don’t miss out on the chance to see a traditional cabaret show or to go on a Seine river cruise this evening (both optional). (B)

DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. With sceneries like this, it’s all #NoFilter today. You’ll be glued to the windows of the coach as mountains and picture-perfect villages roll on by. Yes, places like this really do exist outside of fairy tales. (B,D) DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. Opt in for a ride up to Europe’s highest railway station, Jungfrau, for ultimate bragging rights. Did someone say snow?! On a clear day, the views up here are absolutely unbelievable. If that’s not enough, there’s always skydiving (optional) over the mountains. Eeek. (B,D) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FLORENCE, ITALY. We’ll stop in Pisa to snap THAT pic with The Leaning Tower of Pisa before kicking it to Florence. The glittering Ponte Vecchio is a real-life work of art when the bridge is lit up at night. (B,D) DAY 6 FLORENCE. Welcome to the historic city that looks like an open-air museum. Prepare to be wowed when a local guide takes you through the cobblestone streets, the Uffizi Gallery and the Cathedral. Evening plans? Head to Piazzale Michelangelo for next-level city views and group selfies at sunset. (B) DAY 7 FLORENCE TO ROME. We’ll make a stop at picturesque Orvieto to take in views of the rolling Italian hils. When in Rome, our walking tour will cover all the greats: the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. Tonight, load up on carbs in the home of spaghetti carbonara. Trust us, you’ve earned it. (B) DAY 8 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. An optional visit to Vatican City is on the cards for today.

For the world’s smallest country, its art collection sure packs a punch. Later, anyone up for pizza and red wine in Piazza Navona? (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Try traditional Swiss fondue Vaporetto ride in Venice Local guide in Florence

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

10 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) 6 nights in hostels, 4 nights in bungalows English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Guided tour of the Vatican City START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN VENICE

DAY 9 ROME TO VENICE. Ah, fair Verona. Sigh over love-struck Juliet’s balcony before we roll on to Venice. Cameras at the ready! (B,D) DAY 10 VENICE. With so much to see in Venice, let us help you tick off some of the best bits. Our walking tour of the floating city will take you past the Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square and Bridge of Sighs. But, for the real experience (and best photo angle) hop on the optional gondola ride. You’ll never want to travel by car again! (B) DAY 11 VENICE. Say bye to the gang after breakfast today, but keep on exploring. There’s so much to see in Venice, from the Doge’s Palace to the pastelcoloured streets of Burano island. (B) This is a sector of the 18 Day Winter Getaway trip. See p.56 or visit our website.

16 D A Y | W E S T E R N C O R N E R S ROME

19

MEALS

YOUR ROUTE

4

COUNTRIES

1 STOP & STAY

WI-FI

HOSTEL PLUS

LONDON

53

SECTOR

DAY STOP

START

London

ENGLAND

Paris 2 FRANCE

Loire Valley

2 Bordeaux

Florence ITALY

Marseille

2

2

1 Bilbao SPAIN

2 Madrid

Rome

2 Barcelona

1

FINISH

VATICAN CITY

1 Valencia

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: CHÂTEAU DE CHAMBORD, PIZZA

DAYS 1-2 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Topdeckers, meet Paris! What better way to kick things off than with a jam-packed city driving tour? On day two, there’s a free day to get stuck into. Try to stay calm as you hit the streets, either by foot or on an optional bike tour. Then: how about an optional Seine river cruise or cabaret show?

Ooh là là! (D) (B) DAYS 3-4 PARIS TO BORDEAUX. Next up: Bordeaux, where half the city is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and vineyards reign supreme. That’s right – we’re entering wine country! On day four we’ll show you around the city’s most picturesque streets, with special stops at the Cathédrale St-André, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Jardin Public along the way.

(B) (B) DAY 5 BORDEAUX TO BILBAO, SPAIN. After a super Frenchy wine tasting at the Château du Taillan estate, we’ll cross the border into Spain and roll on to Bilbao – the home of the titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum. (B) DAYS 6-7 BILBAO TO MADRID. Bye, Bilbao! Today we’re swapping you out for Madrid, a city that’s famed for its artistic pedigree, culinary treats and buzzing nightlife. Soak up the sights as we swing by El Retiro park, the Gran Vía and the Plaza de España on a driving tour. So. Much. To. See. (B,D) (B) DAY 8 MADRID TO VALENCIA. Today we’ll make a beeline for the coast on our way to Valencia, where an epic walking tour awaits. Our suggestion for tonight: hit up a traditional Spanish restaurant and try paella the way it’s supposed to taste. Mmmm. (B) DAYS 9-10 VALENCIA TO BARCELONA. Oh hey, Barça! Trust us when we say that this place is BIG. Don’t worry, though – we’ll help you get your bearings on a driving tour before an optional flamenco show.

On day ten, tick off the likes of the Sagrada Família, Gothic Quarter and Mt Tibidabo. (B,D) (B) DAYS 11-12 BARCELONA TO MARSEILLE, FRANCE. France, we meet again! This time, we’ll shine the

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Visit the Loire Valley Bordeaux winery experience Local guide in Florence Walking tour of Rome

TRIP CODE: EEWMLR S TA R T

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Traditional cabaret show in Paris ++ Visit Château de Chambord START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 12PM IN ROME

spotlight on Marseille – a city with a pretty boat-lined quayside, buckets of history and some damn fine architecture to boot. Top tip: try the bouillabaisse.

(B) (B)

DAYS 13-14 MARSEILLE TO FLORENCE, ITALY. Italy, you’re up! We’re making tracks to Florence: a city with over 1,800 restaurants, more culture than you can shake a sculpture at and the world’s best gelato (hands down). On day 14, we’ll pace it around town on a walking tour of the city’s greats. (B,D) (B) DAY 15 FLORENCE TO ROME. OMG. Today is gonna be huge! Get excited, ‘cos our legendary Rome walking tour will very likely help you tick off a life goal or two. Highlights: gazing up at the historic Pantheon, throwing coins into the glittering Trevi Fountain and

S TA R T

FINISH 2020

20

OCT

4

NOV

17

NOV

2

DEC

16

DEC

31

DEC

28

DEC

12

JAN

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 15 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) ++ 10 nights in hostels, 4 nights in hotel upgrades, 1 night in a bungalow ++ English Channel crossing ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

FINISH 2019 G G

12

JAN

27

JAN

9

FEB

24

FEB

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R27700 TRIP PRICE OF R29300 TRIP PRICE OF R30800 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

16 DAYS FROM

27700

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

coming face to face with the almighty Colosseum.

Best. Day. Ever. (B)

DAY 16 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. If you’re up for an early start, why not head out on an optional trip to the world’s smallest country (and home of the pope) this morning? After that, our trip will come to a close. Noooo! (B) This is a sector of the 24 Day Western Compass trip. See p.58 or visit our website.

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 32 S P E R17 P E R R PE

18 D A Y | W I N T E R R H A P S O D Y

HOSTEL PLUS

54

ROME

22

LONDON

MEALS

9

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

SECTOR

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: VENICE, PRAGUE, BUDAPEST, ROME

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY 5 VENICE TO SALZBURG, AUSTRIA. Introducing old-world charm at its best. Salzburg looks like something straight out of a fairytale and should totally be up there on your Europe bucket list. Trust us, it’s postcard-perfect. (B)

DAY STOP

London

ENGLAND

DAY 6 SALZBURG. Spend the day in strudel heaven or go high energy with an opportunity to ski or snowboard (optional). See you on the slopes. (B)

Berlin

Amsterdam

FINISH

GERMANY

NETHERLANDS

2

2 Dresden

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

Auschwitz-Birkenau

2

2 Kraków

Vienna Salzburg AUSTRIA

POLAND

1

2

Bratislava

SLOVAKIA

2 Budapest HUNGARY

Verona

2 Venice

START

Rome ITALY

DAY 1 ROME. The Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain. They’re all here. Fire up your Instagram for these must-sees.

Yep, it’s as epic as you thought here.

DAY 2 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Rome is where the heart is. Visit the world’s smallest country, aka Vatican City (optional), hang with the locals, or eat as much pizza and gelato as you can possibly handle. Question is, how many gelato flavours can you try during your time here? Challenge accepted! (B)

2

VATICAN CITY

DAY 3 ROME TO VENICE. Verona today = Romeo + Juliet 4EVA. Take a look at that famous balcony from Shakespeare’s play while you’re in this pretty city.

After channeling your inner romantic, we’re off to Venice where public transport by boat is totally the norm. (B,D) DAY 4 VENICE. The best way to explore? Hop on a gondola (optional) for the full experience. You can also get involved in a walking tour taking in the greats such as the Grand Canal, St Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge. Then, a vaporetto ride awaits. Let’s go! (B)

DAY 7 SALZBURG TO VIENNA. Welcome to Vienna – the home of Freud and free association. Don’t miss the chance to see the Sound of Vienna Orchestra perform while you’re here (optional). (B) DAY 8 VIENNA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. When you’re in Bratislava, make sure you statue spot as we check out the city on foot. Fuel up on dinner once you get into Budapest. Then, you could always go and check out the nightlife that makes this place so famous. We’ll see ya on the dancefloor! (B,D) DAY 9 BUDAPEST. Make the most of your free day today. Why not hang with the hipsters in a ruin bar?

If you wanna take it easy instead, be sure to visit the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. There’s a river cruise tonight if you want it (optional). (B) DAY 10 BUDAPEST TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. The best winter food in Europe. Fact. Get your bearings on a walking tour then go back to check out your fave spots for yourself. (B) DAY 11 KRAKÓW. Learn about Kraków’s WWII history at the museum in Schindler’s Factory, check out St Mary’s or just people watch with a hot chocolate.

Either way, you’re winning at life. (B) DAY 12 KRAKÓW TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. Auschwitz-Birkenau puts things in perspective today before we arrive in Prague for a walking tour. Get acquainted with this awesome city. (B,D)

HOSTEL PLUS

55

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BUDAPEST, SALZBURG, BRATISLAVA

DAY 13 PRAGUE. Old school vs. new school on this free day. Think Charles Bridge vs. John Lennon Wall.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Castle District views and try some local beers. Trdelník is always a good idea too. (B) DAY 14 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. See the phoenix-like city of Dresden – rising from war ashes and now a must-see. Then find out why everyone wants to be in Berlin, aka one of the coolest cities in Europe. Hint: it might have something to do with the artists and creatives that live here. (B,D) DAY 15 BERLIN. Almost too many choices on this free day. Do culture, do food, do history. It’s all here. Also: nightlife. (B) DAY 16 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. We’re rocking Amsterdam this evening with a visit to the Dam Square and the Red Light District. (B) DAY 17 AMSTERDAM. Check out the sights and tone your legs this morning with an optional bike tour.

Later, you could also stroll along the canal, visit the Rijksmuseum or eat as many mayo-dipped fries as possible. This evening, get ready for a farewell dinner cruise. It’s gonna be emotional. (B,D) DAY 18 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Take all the final selfies before the trip ends back in London. Who wants to go again? (B) This is a sector of the 24 Day Winter Spirit trip. See p.60 or visit our website.

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Vaporetto ride in Venice ++ Guided tour of former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

17 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) 15 nights in hostels, 2 nights in bungalows English Channel crossing Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EEWSRL S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

FINISH 2020

6

NOV

23

NOV

20

NOV

7

DEC

27

NOV

14

DEC

29

NOV

16

DEC

G

G

3

JAN

20

JAN

5

JAN

22

JAN

10

JAN

27

JAN

15

JAN

1

FEB

4

DEC

21

DEC

22

JAN

8

FEB

11

DEC

28

DEC

29

JAN

15

FEB

15

DEC

1

JAN

5

FEB

22

FEB

17

DEC

3

JAN

19

FEB

7

MAR

G

20

DEC

6

JAN

11

MAR

28

MAR

22

DEC

8

JAN

25

MAR

11

APR

26

DEC

12

JAN

28

DEC

14

JAN

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R29300

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Tickets to the Sound of Vienna Orchestra

TRIP PRICE OF R31000 TRIP PRICE OF R32600

START MEET AT 3PM IN ROME FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

TRIP PRICE OF R34900 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

18 DAYS FROM

29300

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 28 S P E R16 P E R R PE

18 D A Y | W I N T E R G E TAWAY

HOSTEL PLUS

56

LONDON

25

LONDON

MEALS

8

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MACARONS, SALZBURG, SWISS ALPS, ROME

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. Take a ride up to Europe’s highest railway station, Jungfrau, for ultimate bragging rights (optional). On a clear day, the mountain views up here are unbelievable. Snow angels, Swiss hot chocolate and potato rösti are on the agenda this afternoon. (B,D)

DAY STOP

Berlin

Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS

GERMANY

2

2

START/FINISH

London

ENGLAND

Dresden

2 2

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

Mauthausen Salzburg

Paris

AUSTRIA

FRANCE

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

2 Verona

Pisa

DAY 2 PARIS. A free day in the French capital means living it up like a local. From visiting world-famous art museums to scoping out Montmartre views and

2 Venice

Florence 2 ITALY

Orvieto Rome

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Brush up on your bonjours – you’ve made it to Paris! Get excited to taste delicious French food at our included dinner and see the City of Light at its best on a driving tour by night. You’ll play landmark bingo with the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. (D)

1

2

VATICAN CITY

trying macarons in every flavour, Parisian life has its perks. Don’t miss out on the chance for a traditional cabaret show or a Seine river cruise this evening (both optional). (B)

DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. Today we’ll drive through more breathtaking valleys and picture-perfect villages than you can poke a fondue stick at. With snow-capped mountain scenery like this, it’s all #nofilter today. (B,D)

DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FLORENCE, ITALY. Say hello to Italy: the birthplace of gelato! We’ll make a stop in Pisa en route to Florence. Get creative when you snap THAT pic with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. (B,D) DAY 6 FLORENCE. Explore the city with a local guide who’ll share Medici family secrets and show you the best angles to take a selfie with the Ponte Vecchio.

In your free time, people watch in piazzas, explore the Uffizi Gallery and scope out the famous Duomo.

Then: delish Tuscan cuisine awaits. (B) DAY 7 FLORENCE TO ROME. We’ll make a stop in hilltop Orvieto for epic views of the Italian countryside. The eternal city is on our horizon today, where we’ll make like an emperor and take on a walking tour of the biggest players in Rome. The Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum = next level amazing. (B) DAY 8 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Take the option to visit the Vatican City (aka the world’s smallest country), then Rome is yours. Did we mention you're in Disneyland for foodies? Have fun!

(B) DAY 9 ROME TO VENICE. Ah, fair Verona. Sigh over Juliet’s balcony, then we’re going island hopping, Venice-style. (B,D) DAY 10 VENICE. With so much to see in the floating city of Venice, let us help you tick off some of the best bits with a walking tour. When you walk past the Grand Canal and St Mark’s Square, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set. Then: hop on the optional gondola ride for the most stunning city views. (B)

HOSTEL PLUS

57

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BERLIN, PARIS, BUDAPEST

DAY 11 VENICE TO SALZBURG, AUSTRIA. Music lovers, this is your city! Get your bearings on a walking tour of Salzburg’s cobblestone streets, where you’ll spot Mozart’s birthplace and The Sound of Music film locations. Treat yourself to coffee and a slice of Sachertorte (Austria’s famous cake). (B) DAY 12 SALZBURG TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. It’s a sobering start to the day with a visit to former concentration camp Mauthausen. Next up, a walking tour of Prague that promises beautiful Old Town views, the Gothic Charles Bridge and the largest ancient castle in the world. (B,D) DAY 13 PRAGUE. Seek out the vibrant John Lennon Wall or get a taste of the quirky local culture at a marionette puppet opera (you gotta see it to believe it). After your action-packed day, eat a hearty roast pork dish or Czech savoury pancakes and sip the local beer. Really. Good. Beer. (B) DAY 14 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. Off to Berlin via Dresden, home to elegant architecture rebuilt after WWII. Then, Berlin history awaits with a driving tour hitting up all the highlights: the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building. (B,D) DAY 15 BERLIN. Make a visit to hipster-chic Neukölln, Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg for more döner kebabs and currywurst than your Instagram can handle.

There’s also a history walking tour today (optional) and some pretty famous nightlife on the cards tonight (optional). (B) DAY 16 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Get your bearings on an orientation tour of Amsterdam and see the sights including Dam Square, the Royal Palace and National Monument. After you scope out the famous Red Light District, end the night with a cone of hot chips with mayo. Mmm. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Vaporetto ride in Venice Local guide in Florence Visit former concentration camp Mauthausen Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

17 breakfasts (B), 8 dinners (D) 13 nights in hostels, 4 nights in bungalows English Channel crossings Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EEWGLL S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 G

12

OCT

29

OCT

4

JAN

21

9

NOV

26

NOV

11

JAN

28

JAN

23

NOV

10

DEC

18

JAN

4

FEB

30

NOV

17

DEC

25

JAN

11

FEB

4

DEC

21

DEC

1

FEB

18

FEB

6

DEC

23

DEC

15

FEB

3

MAR

7

MAR

24

MAR

G

15

DEC

1

JAN

G

20

DEC

6

JAN

G

30

DEC

16

JAN

TRIP PRICE OF R29800 TRIP PRICE OF R32200

TOP OPTIONALS

TRIP PRICE OF R34500 TRIP PRICE OF R36900

DAY 17 AMSTERDAM. Amster-DAM it's going to be a good day! Hop on a bike tour to explore the canallined city (optional). Then: phones at the ready for our farewell dinner cruise. (B,D) DAY 18 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today it's back on the ferry as we journey back to London and say our goodbyes. Who’s keen for sorting another trip to Europe? Sign us up! (B)

JAN

G= Guaranteed Departure

++ Gondola ride in Venice ++ Street art and nightlife tour of Berlin START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

FINISH 2020

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

18 DAYS FROM

29800

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 56 S P E R16 P E R R PE

24 D A Y | W E S T E R N C O M PA S S

HOSTEL PLUS

58

LONDON

31

LONDON

MEALS

7

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: HOT CHOCOLATE, GELATO, AMSTERDAM, SWISS ALPS

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAYS 6-7 BILBAO TO MADRID. Bye, Bilbao! Today we’re swapping you out for Madrid, a city that’s famed for its artistic pedigree, culinary treats and buzzing nightlife. Soak up the sights as we swing by El Retiro park, the Gran Vía and the Plaza de España on a driving tour. So. Much. To. See. (B,D) (B)

DAY STOP

Amsterdam

START/FINISH

NETHERLANDS

2

London

ENGLAND

DAY 8 MADRID TO VALENCIA. Today we’ll make a beeline for the coast on our way to Valencia, where an epic walking tour awaits. Our suggestion for tonight: hit up a traditional Spanish restaurant and try paella the way it’s supposed to taste. Mmmm. (B)

City 1 Luxembourg LUXEMBOURG

2 Paris

FRANCE

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

2

Loire Valley

2 Verona

2 Bordeaux 2

1

2 Madrid

ITALY

2

Marseille

Bilbao SPAIN

Florence

2 Venice

2 Barcelona

Rome

2

VATICAN CITY

1 Valencia

DAYS 1-2 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). Topdeckers, meet Paris! What better way to kick things off than with a jam-packed city driving tour? On day two, there’s a free day to get stuck into. Try to stay calm as you hit the streets, either by foot or on an optional bike tour. Then: how about an optional Seine river cruise or cabaret show?

Ooh là là! (D) (B) DAYS 3-4 PARIS TO BORDEAUX. Next up: Bordeaux, where half the city is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and vineyards reign supreme. That’s right – we’re entering wine country! On day four we’ll show you

around the city’s most picturesque streets, with special stops at the Cathédrale St-André, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Jardin Public along the way.

(B) (B)

DAY 5 BORDEAUX TO BILBAO, SPAIN. After a super Frenchy wine tasting at the Château du Taillan estate, we’ll cross the border into Spain and roll on to Bilbao – the home of the titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum. (B)

DAYS 9-10 VALENCIA TO BARCELONA. Oh hey, Barça! Trust us when we say that this place is BIG. Don’t worry, though – we’ll help you get your bearings on a driving tour before an optional flamenco show.

On day ten, tick off the likes of the Sagrada Família, Gothic Quarter and Mt Tibidabo. (B,D) (B) DAYS 11-12 BARCELONA TO MARSEILLE, FRANCE. France, we meet again! This time, we’ll shine the spotlight on Marseille – a city with a pretty boat-lined quayside, buckets of history and some damn fine architecture to boot. Top tip: try the bouillabaisse.

(B) (B) DAYS 13-14 MARSEILLE TO FLORENCE, ITALY. Italy, you’re up! We’re making tracks to Florence: a city with over 1,800 restaurants, more culture than you can shake a sculpture at and the world’s best gelato (hands down). On day 14, we’ll pace it around town on a walking tour of the city’s greats. (B,D) (B) DAYS 15-16 FLORENCE TO ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY. OMG. Get excited for our legendary Rome walking tour! Highlights: gazing up at the historic Pantheon, throwing coins into the glittering Trevi Fountain and coming face to face with the almighty Colosseum. If you’re up for an early start on day 16, why not head out on an optional trip to the Vatican City? (B) (B) DAYS 17-18 ROME TO VENICE. After channeling your inner romantic at Juliet’s love notes wall in Verona, we’re off to oh-so-pretty Venice. The best way to

HOSTEL PLUS

59

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ROME, PARIS

explore? Get lost. Get found. Repeat. Just make sure you do find St Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge and the Doge’s Palace. That, and get yourself on a gondola ride (optional). (B,D) (B)

DAYS 19-20 VENICE TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. Off to the Swiss Alps, where the air is clear, the views are like something out of a fairytale and the snow is as white as… well, snow. Craving more altitude? Head to the ‘Top of Europe’, Jungfrau, on an optional rail journey. (B,D) (B,D) DAY 21 SWISS ALPS TO LUXEMBOURG CITY, LUXEMBOURG. What’s upppp, Luxembourg City? This place may be small, but it sure as heck packs a lot of restaurants, museums and galleries. We’ve only got one day to check them out, so hop to it! (B) DAYS 22-23 LUXEMBOURG TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Welcome to Europe’s most infamous city. First things first: get the obvious out of the way (Red Light District, anyone?), then dial up the emotion on a farewell dinner cruise on day 23. Cue all of the hugs. (B) (B,D) DAY 24 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. One more breakfast, then it’s back to London we go (sob).

Too early to book the next trip? (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Driving tour of Paris Bordeaux winery experience Local guide in Florence Walking tour of Rome Try traditional Swiss fondue Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

TRIP CODE: EEWMLL S TA R T

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Flamenco show in Barcelona ++ Visit Château de Chambord START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

S TA R T

FINISH 2020

20

OCT

12

NOV

17

NOV

10

DEC

16

DEC

8

JAN

28

DEC

20

JAN

G G

12

JAN

4

FEB

9

FEB

3

MAR

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R39900

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 23 breakfasts (B), 8 dinners (D) ++ 17 nights in hostels, 4 nights in hotel upgrades, 2 nights in bungalows ++ English Channel crossings ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R41900 TRIP PRICE OF R43900 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

24 DAYS FROM

39900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 63 S P E R16 P E R R PE

24 D A Y | W I N T E R S P I R I T

HOSTEL PLUS

60

LONDON

32

LONDON

MEALS

11

COUNTRIES

WI-FI

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BUDAPEST, HOT CHIPS, SWISS ALPS, KRAKÓW

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FLORENCE, ITALY. Get back to city life today in beautiful Florence – stopping in Pisa for THAT shot first, of course. (B,D)

DAY STOP

GERMANY

NETHERLANDS

START/FINISH

2

2

London

ENGLAND

DAY 6 FLORENCE. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city’s greats this morning. Think: Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral and that famous naked guy, David. (B)

Berlin

Amsterdam

Dresden Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

Auschwitz-Birkenau Kraków

2

2

2

Vienna Salzburg

Paris

FRANCE

POLAND

Swiss Alps

AUSTRIA

2

1 Bratislava

SLOVAKIA

SWITZERLAND

2 Budapest HUNGARY

2 Verona

Pisa

2 Venice

Florence 2 ITALY

Orvieto Rome

2

VATICAN CITY

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO PARIS, FRANCE (OR JOIN IN PARIS). First day. First item off the list? A city driving tour and included dinner. Keep your eyes peeled for the Arc de Triomphe, the Palais Garnier and that really famous tower. (D)

DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND. Au revoir, Paris – it’s been a blast. Next up, Lauterbrunnen. If you haven’t seen this place in winter, you’re in for a real treat. #NoFilter needed.

(B,D)

DAY 2 PARIS. Explore the city’s hidden gems on your free day. Tonight, join us at a cabaret (optional), sail the Seine by night (optional) or soak up some jazz at a café in the 10th arrondissement. (B)

DAY 4 SWISS ALPS. We’re all about Jungfrau today, aka ‘The Top of Europe’. Ride the rail (optional) or soak up the scenery at ground level. Whatever you choose, the mountains and crisp air here will make you feel alive. (B,D)

DAY 7 FLORENCE TO ROME. A city under a city as we visit Orvieto en route to Rome. Then fire up Instagram for a walking tour of the must-sees. It’s as epic as you thought here. (B) DAY 8 ROME INCLUDING VATICAN CITY VISIT. Rome is where the heart is. Visit the world’s smallest country, aka Vatican City (optional), hang with the locals, or eat as much pizza and gelato as you can possibly handle. (B) DAY 9 ROME TO VENICE. Verona today = Romeo + Juliet 4EVA. After channeling your inner romantic, we’re off to Venice where public transport by boat is totally the norm. (B,D) DAY 10 VENICE. The best way to explore? Hop on a gondola (optional) for the full experience. You can also get involved in a walking tour taking in the greats. Then, a vaporetto ride awaits. (B) DAY 11 VENICE TO SALZBURG, AUSTRIA. Introducing old-world charm at its best. Salzburg looks like something straight out of a fairytale and should totally be up there on your Europe bucket list. Trust us. (B) DAY 12 SALZBURG. Spend the day in strudel heaven or go high energy with an opportunity to ski or snowboard (optional). See you on the slopes. (B) DAY 13 SALZBURG TO VIENNA. Welcome to Vienna – the home of Freud and free association. Go! (B) DAY 14 VIENNA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. When we’re in Bratislava, make sure you statue spot as we check out the city on foot. Then we’re off to Budapest.

The nightlife here really is THAT good. (B,D)

HOSTEL PLUS

61

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TRDELNÍK, PARIS, FLORENCE

DAY 15 BUDAPEST. Make the most of your free day today. Why not hang with the hipsters in a ruin bar? Later, be sure to go for dinner on a river cruise tonight (optional). (B) DAY 16 BUDAPEST TO KRAKÓW, POLAND. The best winter food in Europe. Fact. Get your bearings on a walking tour then go back to check out your fave spots for yourself. (B) DAY 17 KRAKÓW. Learn about Kraków’s WWII history at the museum in Schindler’s Factory, check out St Mary’s or just people watch with a hot chocolate. (B) DAY 18 KRAKÓW TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC. Auschwitz-Birkenau puts things in perspective today before we arrive in Prague for a walking tour. (B,D) DAY 19 PRAGUE. Old school vs. new school on this free day. Think Charles Bridge vs. John Lennon Wall.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Castle District views and try some local beers. Trdelník is always a good idea too. (B) DAY 20 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY. See the phoenix-like city of Dresden – rising from war ashes and now a must-see. Then find out why everyone wants to be in Berlin, aka one of the coolest cities in Europe. (B,D) DAY 21 BERLIN. Almost too many choices on this free day. Do culture, do food, do history. It’s all here. Also: nightlife. (B) DAY 22 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. We’re rocking Amsterdam this evening with a visit to the Dam Square and the Red Light District. (B) DAY 23 AMSTERDAM. Check out the sights and tone your legs this morning with an optional bike tour.

Later, you could also stroll along the canal, visit the Rijksmuseum or eat as many mayo-dipped fries as possible. This evening, get ready for a farewell dinner cruise. It’s gonna be emotional. (B,D)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Driving tour of Paris ++ Vaporetto ride in Venice ++ Visit former concentration camp AuschwitzBirkenau ++ Local guide in Florence ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 23 breakfasts (B), 9 dinners (D) ++ 19 nights in hostels, 4 nights in bungalows at European campsites ++ English Channel crossings ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TRIP CODE: EEWSLL S TA R T 31

OCT

23

NOV

G

FINISH

DEC

20

JAN

30

DEC

22

JAN

4

JAN

27

JAN

9

JAN

1

FEB

G

2020

14

NOV

7

DEC

NOV

14

DEC

23

NOV

16

DEC

28

NOV

21

DEC

16

JAN

8

FEB

5

DEC

28

DEC

23

JAN

15

FEB

9

DEC

1

JAN

30

JAN

22

FEB

11

DEC

3

JAN

13

FEB

7

MAR

14

DEC

6

JAN

5

MAR

28

MAR

16

DEC

8

JAN

19

MAR

11

APR

20

DEC

12

JAN

22

DEC

14

JAN

G

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

TRIP PRICE OF R38900 TRIP PRICE OF R41200

TOP OPTIONALS

DAY 24 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Take all the final selfies before the trip ends back in London. Who wants to go again? (B)

S TA R T 28

21

TRIP PRICE OF R43500

++ Skiing in Salzburg ++ Tickets to the Sound of Vienna Orchestra START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON (OR 5PM IN PARIS) FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON (OR 10AM IN AMSTERDAM)

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R46500 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

24 DAYS FROM

38900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 21 S P E R16 P E R R PE

LIMITED EDITION

62

HOGMANAY, EDINBURGH

From New Year's Eve parties to Christmas markets, ski trips to visiting Santa in Lapland, these once-in-a-lifetime experiences are like nothing else.

ACCOMMODATION HOTELS/HOSTELS

CHRISTMAS MARKET, BRUGES

TRIP LENGTH 4-14 DAYS

ROOM TYPES

SINGLE/T WIN/DOUBLE/ TRIPLE/MULTI-SHARE

SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE, LAPLAND

LIMITED EDITION

63

DAYS | TRIP NAME

CHRISTMAS MARKET, EDINBURGH

PAGE

4 D AY

| BRUGES CHRISTMAS

64

4 D AY

| AMSTERDAM NEW YEAR

64

4 D AY

| EDINBURGH NEW YEAR - HOGMANAY

65

5 D AY

| EDINBURGH NEW YEAR - HOGMANAY

65

4 D AY

| ST PATRICK'S DAY

66

4 D AY

| THE L APL AND EXPRESS

67

8 D AY

| TRAIL TO THE BALKAN SLOPES

68

10 D AY

| BALKAN ADVENTURER

69

14 D AY

| BALKANS & SKI

70

IMPROVED ITINERARY

LIMITED EDITION

64

4 DAY | BRUGES CHRISTMAS LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

LONDON

1 STOP & STAY

4

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

4 DAY | AMSTERDAM NEW YEAR

WI-FI

AMSTERDAM

5

1

MEALS

COUNTRY

DAY STOP

START/FINISH

London

Bruges

ENGLAND

BELGIUM

Brussels

TRIP CODE: ELCBLL

TRIP CODE: ELNAAA

S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

FINISH

2019 24

DEC

27

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Walking tour of Bruges ++ Walking tour of Brussels ++ Christmas lunch START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON

2019 DEC

29

MORE INCLUSIONS 3 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L) 3 nights in a hostel English Channel crossings Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver ++ ++ ++ ++

DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO BRUGES, BELGIUM. Meet the crew and hop on over to Bruges. Complete with cobblestone streets and charming canals, this magical Belgian city is a traveller’s favourite – and you're about to find out why!

DAYS 2-3 BRUGES. Wake up – you're in a winter wonderland! After breakfast, cram in some festive market buys or take a stroll down the medieval streets.

Then: warm up with a hearty Christmas lunch. On day three, it's over to Brussels for a walking tour! (B,L) (B) DAY 4 BRUGES TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Today we'll say bye-bye Bruges, and hello London. Facebook friends? (B)

DEC

1

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Walking tour of Amsterdam ++ Canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam ++ New Year's Eve dinner and celebrations

JAN

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 3 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) ++ 3 nights in a hostel ++ Awesome Trip Leader START MEET AT 3PM IN AMSTERDAM FINISH APPROXIMATELY 10AM IN AMSTERDAM

DAY 1 LONDON TO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS. Cue red lights, mayo-dipped fries and more cheese than you dare to imagine! Next stop: Amsterdam.

DAYS 2-3 AMSTERDAM. Roll out of bed, hit the streets and soak up all those Dutch vibes. Later today, we've got a dinner cruise on the canal to look forward to – and tomorrow, it's time for the main event! Check out the fireworks from Dam Square, then get ready to party all night, Amsterdam-style. (B,D) (B,D) DAY 4 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Back to London we go! Anyone for a snooze along the way? (B)

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

4 DAYS FROM

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

4900

R

4 DAYS FROM

5300

R

ZAR PER PERSON

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 25 S P E R13 P E R R PE

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 25 S P E R12 P E R R PE

5 DAY | EDINBURGH NEW YEAR

(HOGMANAY)

EDINBURGH

3

1

MEALS

(HOGMANAY)

COUNTRY

LONDON

YOUR ROUTE

LONDON

1 STOP & STAY

4

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

WI-FI

DAY STOP

Edinburgh

SCOTLAND

4

START/FINISH

London

ENGLAND

TRIP CODE: ELNEEE

TRIP CODE: ELNELL

S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

FINISH

2019 30

DEC

2019

2

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Hogmanay street party and torchlight procession ++ Walking tour of Edinburgh

JAN

29

MORE INCLUSIONS

START MEET AT 1PM IN EDINBURGH FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN EDINBURGH

TOP OPTIONALS

++ Hogmanay street party and torchlight procession ++ Walking tour of Edinburgh ++ Transport and ticket for the Loony Dook event

JAN

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 4 breakfasts (B) ++ 4 nights in a hostel ++ Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ++ Awesome Trip Leader and Driver START MEET AT 6AM IN LONDON FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9PM IN LONDON

TOP OPTIONALS

DAYS 1-4 EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND. Think: festively-lit streets full of happy punters, incredible live bands and one of the world’s most spectacular fireworks displays. Then: add a flurry of traditional dancing and more kilts than you can poke a bagpipe at. Yep – this is Hogmanay! Join us as we take on this legendary New Year's Eve party in true Topdeck style. (B) (B) (B)

++ Pub crawl in Edinburgh ++ Visit Stirling Castle DAY 1 LONDON, ENGLAND TO EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND. This. Is. It! Time to meet your fellow Topdeckers and jump on the coach to Edinburgh – where an optional pub crawl awaits.

DAYS 2-4 EDINBURGH. On day two, we'll kick things off with a walking tour – and when night falls, we'll get goosebumpy with a super magical torchlight procession.

And on day three? It's New Year's Eve, baby! Gear up for the ultimate street party (with the awesome Edinburgh Castle as the backdrop). Anyone for a dip in the freezing River Forth at the Loony Dook event on day four? (B) (B) (B)

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

4 DAYS FROM

4800

2

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)

++ 3 breakfasts (B) ++ 3 nights in a hostel ++ Awesome Trip Leader

++ Pub crawl in Edinburgh

R

DEC

ZAR PER PERSON

DAY 5 EDINBURGH TO LONDON, ENGLAND. Cue teary goodbyes – we're outta here after breakfast. See you next year? (B)

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

5 DAYS FROM M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 25 S P E R12 P E R R PE

8900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 80 S P E R17 P E R R PE

65 LIMITED EDITION

4 DAY | EDINBURGH NEW YEAR

4 D A Y | S T PAT R I C K ' S D AY

LIMITED EDITION

66

DUBLIN

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

3

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

DAY STOP

Dublin

IRELAND

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DUBLIN, ST PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATIONS, DUBLIN

TRIP CODE: ELPDDD S TA R T

FINISH 2019

15

MAR

18

MAR

G

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

4 DAYS FROM

5900

R

ZAR PER PERSON All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 DUBLIN, REPUBLIC OF IRELAND. Let the good vibes roll in Dublin when you meet the gang at your accommodation this afternoon and get into the festive spirit. Tonight: say cheers to your upcoming St Patrick’s Day adventure and get to know your fellow Topdeckers. This one’s gonna be pretty epic.

DAY 2 DUBLIN. Get your bearings with a walking tour of Dublin’s famous sights before finishing at the world famous Guinness Storehouse. We'll learn the stories of brewing this precious drop before sampling a pint in the Guinness Skybar, offering incredible 360-degree views of the city. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Get a dose of culture at some of the museums and galleries or shop 'til your heart's content on Grafton Street. Sports fans, pay a visit to Croke Park – it’s home to the Irish sports of hurling and Gaelic football. Warm up for tomorrow's celebrations with a visit to the bars, pubs and clubs of the buzzing Temple Bar district. (B) DAY 3 DUBLIN. Today’s the day we've all been waiting for! Get fuelled up with breakfast, dress up in emerald green and then head into the heart of the celebrations to secure a spot for the St Patrick's Day Parade. Get ready for it – the marching bands and vibin’ atmosphere in the streets will have you singing and dancing with the locals in no time. Tonight, keep going into the wee hours as we continue the celebrations. Who needs sleep anyway? (B) DAY 4 DUBLIN. The trip finishes this morning after you have breakfast and say bye to your brand new Topdecker buddies. Ready to start planning round two? Or ya know, just stick around in Dublin for a few extra nights to tick off the city’s attractions on both sides of the River Liffey. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Walking tour of Dublin ++ Guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse ++ St Patrick's Day parade and celebrations

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++

3 breakfasts (B) 3 nights in hostels Commemorative T-shirt Awesome Trip Leader

START MEET AT 2PM IN DUBLIN FINISH APPROXIMATELY 10AM IN DUBLIN

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 75 S P E R14 P E R R PE

4 DAY | THE LAPLAND EXPRESS 4

MEALS

1

LIMITED EDITION

ROVANIEMI

67

COUNTRY

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY STOP

START/FINISH

Rovaniemi FINLAND

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: NORTHERN LIGHTS FROM ROVANIEMI, SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE

DAY 1 ROVANIEMI, FINLAND. Welcome to Rovaniemi, the real-life snow globe in the heart of Finnish Lapland. This winter dreamland is known around the world as the home of Santa Claus. Later, feast on a welcome dinner with your new Topdeck buds and get excited for the Arctic Circle awesomeness ahead of you. Try and contain your excitement, k? (D) DAY 2 ROVANIEMI. SNOW DAY! Today, this winter wonderland is yours to explore. Your storybook dreams are about to come true with a visit to a reindeer farm and the Santa Claus Village. Get pumped for a meet and greet with Santa himself (optional). Bring your wishlist with you and let’s find out if you’ve been good this year. After, meet us for a snowball fight. It’s onnnn! (B) DAY 3 ROVANIEMI. Feel the hype, today’s gonna be big. Grab your snowshoes for a hike or zoom across the snow on the back of a husky sled (optional). Talk about bucket list items. Tonight, top off your last day in Lapland with the best light show on earth. If conditions are right, you’ll catch the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) dancing among the stars. This natural phenomenon is so beautiful, you’ll probably cry. Seriously. Enjoy! (B) DAY 4 ROVANIEMI. Sneak in a cheeky snow angel while you can because today we say heippa (goodbye) after breakfast. But this doesn’t have to be the end.

We won’t blame you for sticking around a little longer because, well, this place is pretty epic. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Visit the Santa Claus Village

TRIP CODE: ELLERR S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 3 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D) ++ 3 nights in hotels (twin or double) ++ Awesome Trip Leader

21

NOV

24

NOV

2

JAN

5

12

DEC

15

DEC

16

JAN

19

JAN

30

JAN

2

FEB

13

FEB

16

FEB

TOP OPTIONALS

JAN

TRIP PRICE OF R10700

++ Search for the Northern Lights ++ Visit a husky farm ++ Go husky sledding START MEET BETWEEN 3-4PM IN ROVANIEMI FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN ROVANIEMI

FINISH 2020

TRIP PRICE OF R11299 TRIP PRICE OF R11900 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R3209

4 DAYS FROM

10700

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 75 S P E R26 P E R R PE

8 DAY | TRAIL TO THE BALKAN SLOPES

LIMITED EDITION

68

BUDAPEST

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

SOFIA

10

MEALS

3

COUNTRIES

SECTOR

DAY STOP

1 START

Budapest

HUNGARY

1

Timisoara ROMANIA

2 Bucharest

FINISH

Sofia

BULGARIA

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ALEXANDER NEVSKY CATHEDRAL, ROMANIA, BULGARIA

TRIP CODE: ELBSHS S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 19

DEC

26

FINISH 2020

DEC

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

3

JAN

10

17

JAN

24

JAN JAN

31

JAN

7

FEB

TRIP PRICE OF R13400 TRIP PRICE OF R14200 TRIP PRICE OF R14900 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R4019

8 DAYS FROM

13400

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. YES! You’re in Budapest, baby! Ready for a wintry Balkan adventure?

Good news – you’ve come to the right place. Meet your Topdeck trip mates at dinner tonight and gear up for an awesome couple of weeks. Excitement levels: 1000/10. (D) DAY 2 BUDAPEST TO ROMANIA. Next stop, Timisoara. Quick fact: some call it ‘Little Vienna’.

Today we’ll get the lay of the land on a walking tour before hitting up the Old Town neighbourhood. Don't miss the Romanian Orthodox Cathedral – especially after dark. (B) DAYS 3-4 TIMISOARA TO BUCHAREST. Oh hey there, Bucharest! We’ll introduce you to the Romanian capital with not one, but TWO tours on day three (one on foot, and one by coach). Day four is a free day. Our suggestions? The Palace of Parliament (it’s pretty big – you can’t miss it), the Cismigiu Gardens (if the lake is frozen over, get your skates on) and the Bucharest Arc de Triomphe. So. Much. To. See! (B,D) (B) DAYS 5-7 BUCHAREST TO SOFIA, BULGARIA. First up: a pit stop in Veliko Tarnovo (home of the Tsarevets Fortress). Then, we’ll move on to Bulgaria’s gem of a capital city: Sofia. After making friends with the city on a walking tour on day five, days six and seven will be yours to do exactly as you please. Spend your time exploring (hot tip: the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must-see), or try one of our ah-mazing optionals. What’s it gonna be? Optional skiing at Borovets Ski Resort, an optional scenic air lift ride and hike to the Seven Rila Lakes on Rila Mountain, or an optional visit to the beautiful Rila Monastery? Talk about spoilt for choice! (B,D) (B) (B) DAY 8 SOFIA. This trip ends here! Say goodbye over breakfast. We won’t blame you if you wanna stick around and explore some more, though... (B)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 75 S P E R16 P E R R PE

This is a sector of the 14 Day Balkans & Ski trip. See p.70 or visit our website.

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Driving and walking tours of Bucharest ++ Walking tour of Sofia

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

7 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D) 7 nights in hotels (twin or double) Modern air-conditioned coach Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Skiing in Bulgaria ++ Visit Rila Monastery ++ Open air lift ride and hike to the Seven Rila Lakes START MEET AT 4PM IN BUDAPEST FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN SOFIA

10 D A Y | B A L K A N A D V E N T U R E R BUDAPEST

13

MEALS

5

COUNTRIES

LIMITED EDITION

SOFIA

69

SECTOR

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY STOP

1 FINISH

Budapest

HUNGARY

2

2 Plitvice Lakes CROATIA

Belgrade SERBIA

1

Sarajevo

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

START

Sofia

BULGARIA

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: PLITVICE LAKES

DAY 1 SOFIA, BULGARIA. Are you ready for this?

Your Balkan Adventurer trip starts here! Tick off the must-sees (hello, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral) before meeting the Topdeck crew later today. With a welcome dinner included, you’ll all be best Balkan buds in no time. (D) DAYS 2-3 SOFIA. Incredible news: days two and three will be yours to do exactly as you please. Spend your time exploring the city centre, or try one of our ahmazing optionals. What’s it gonna be? Optional skiing at Borovets Ski Resort, an optional scenic air lift ride and hike to the Seven Rila Lakes on Rila Mountain, or an optional visit to the beautiful Rila Monastery? Talk about spoilt for choice! (B) (B) DAYS 4-5 SOFIA TO BELGRADE, SERBIA. Serbia, here we come! Curl up on the coach as we cruise into Belgrade. When we arrive, we’ll show you how to explore the city like a pro. And on day five? Sleep in or get up early, it’s all on you. Why not take a trip along the banks of the Danube to the Old Town district?

There’s plenty to explore here, from Prince Michael Street to Skadarlija and Republic Square. (B,D) (B) DAY 6 BELGRADE TO SARAJEVO, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA. This morning we’ll pay a sobering visit to the Srebrenica Memorial (which honours the victims of the 1995 genocide) before we move on to Sarajevo. Here, we’ll follow our local guide and learn all about the city’s war-torn past. Tonight, discuss everything you’ve learned over dinner. This one’s on us. (B,D) DAYS 7-8 SARAJEVO TO PLITVICE LAKES, CROATIA. Get excited – on day seven, we’ll make our way to one of the most beautiful parts of Eastern Europe.

Yep, we’re looking at you, Plitvice Lakes National Park!

In the right conditions, the park’s waterfalls freeze over and the trees get covered in a blanket of snow, turning it into a real-life winter wonderland. You’ve got two days to spend here, so make the most of those amazing photo opportunities while you can!

(B) (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Entry to Plitvice Lakes National Park ++ Visit the Srebrenica Memorial

TRIP CODE: ELBSSH S TA R T 23

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

DAYS 9-10 PLITVICE LAKES TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Take one last longing look at Plitvice Lakes before we hit the road to Budapest. There’s just enough time for one last driving tour on day nine before we wrap up the trip with a farewell dinner.

When day ten comes, it’s Splitsville. Quick, let’s be Facebook friends! (B,D) (B)

DEC

1

FINISH 2020

JAN

G

7

JAN

16

21

JAN

30

JAN JAN

4

FEB

13

FEB

TRIP PRICE OF R17900 TRIP PRICE OF R18900

TOP OPTIONALS

START MEET AT 4PM IN SOFIA FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN BUDAPEST

S TA R T

G= Guaranteed Departure

9 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) 9 nights in hotels (twin or double) Modern air-conditioned coach Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

++ Skiing in Bulgaria ++ Visit Rila Monastery ++ Open air lift ride and hike to the Seven Rila Lakes

FINISH 2019

TRIP PRICE OF R19900 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R5369

10 DAYS FROM

17900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

This is a sector of the 14 Day Balkans & Ski trip. See p.70 or visit our website.

M RO Y F ZAR N A O D R 90 S P E R17 P E R R PE

14 D A Y | B A L K A N S & S K I

LIMITED EDITION

70

BUDAPEST

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

BUDAPEST

19

MEALS

6

COUNTRIES

DAY STOP

1

1

START/FINISH

Budapest

HUNGARY

1

2

2 Plitvice Lakes CROATIA

Timisoara ROMANIA

Belgrade

1

2

SERBIA

Bucharest

Sarajevo

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Sofia

BULGARIA

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BELGRADE, SKIING IN BOROVETS, PLITVICE LAKES

TRIP CODE: ELBSHH S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2019 19

DEC

1

FINISH 2020

JAN

G

G= Guaranteed Departure

3

JAN

16

17

JAN

30

JAN JAN

31

JAN

13

FEB

TRIP PRICE OF R24200 TRIP PRICE OF R25600 TRIP PRICE OF R26900 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra R7259

14 DAYS FROM

24200

R

ZAR PER PERSON

All items listed in the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included in the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional and may cost extra (but are too awesome to miss out).

DAY 1 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. YES! You’re in Budapest, baby! Ready for a wintry Balkan adventure? Good news – you’ve come to the right place. Meet your Topdeck trip mates at dinner tonight and gear up for an awesome couple of weeks.

Excitement levels: 1000/10. (D)

M RO Y F AR DA Z ON R 29 S P E R17 P E R R PE

DAY 2 BUDAPEST TO TIMISOARA, ROMANIA. Next stop, Timisoara. Quick fact: some call it ‘Little Vienna’. Today we’ll get the lay of the land on a walking tour before hitting up the Old Town neighbourhood. Don't miss the Romanian Orthodox Cathedral – especially after dark. (B)

DAYS 3-4 TIMISOARA TO BUCHAREST. Oh hey there, Bucharest! We’ll introduce you to the Romanian capital with not one, but TWO tours on day three (one on foot, and one by coach). Day four is a free day. Our suggestions? The Palace of Parliament (it’s pretty big – you can’t miss it), the Cismigiu Gardens (if the lake is frozen over, get your skates on) and the Bucharest Arc de Triomphe. So. Much. To. See! (B,D) (B) DAYS 5-7 BUCHAREST TO SOFIA, BULGARIA. First up: a pit stop in Veliko Tarnovo (home of the Tsarevets Fortress). Then, we’ll move on to Bulgaria’s gem of a capital city: Sofia. After making friends with the city on a walking tour on day five, days six and seven will be yours to do exactly as you please. Spend your time exploring (hot tip: the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must-see), or try one of our ah-mazing optionals. What’s it gonna be? Optional skiing at Borovets Ski Resort, an optional scenic air lift ride and hike to the Seven Rila Lakes on Rila Mountain, or an optional visit to the beautiful Rila Monastery? Talk about spoilt for choice! (B,D) (B) (B) DAYS 8-9 SOFIA TO BELGRADE, SERBIA. Serbia, here we come! Curl up on the coach as we cruise into Belgrade. When we arrive, we’ll show you how to explore the city like a pro. And on day nine? Sleep in or get up early, it’s all on you. Why not take a trip along the banks of the Danube to the Old Town district? There’s plenty to explore here, from Prince Michael Street to Skadarlija and Republic Square.

(B,D) (B) DAY 10 BELGRADE TO SARAJEVO, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA. This morning we’ll pay a sobering visit to the Srebrenica Memorial (which honours the victims of the 1995 genocide) before we move on to Sarajevo. Here, we’ll follow our local guide and learn all about the city’s war-torn past. Tonight, discuss everything you’ve learned over dinner. This one’s on us. (B,D)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Entry to Plitvice Lakes National Park ++ Visit the Srebrenica Memorial

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

13 breakfasts (B), 6 dinners (D) 13 nights in hotels (twin or double) Modern air-conditioned coach Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader and Driver

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Skiing in Bulgaria ++ Visit Rila Monastery ++ Open air lift ride and hike to the Seven Rila Lakes START MEET AT 4PM IN BUDAPEST FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN BUDAPEST

DAYS 11-12 SARAJEVO TO PLITVICE LAKES, CROATIA. Get excited – on day 11, we’ll make our way to one of the most beautiful parts of Eastern Europe.

Yep, we’re looking at you, Plitvice Lakes National Park!

In the right conditions, the park’s waterfalls freeze over and the trees get covered in a blanket of snow, turning it into a real-life winter wonderland. You’ve got two days to spend here, so make the most of those amazing photo opportunities while you can!

(B) (B)

DAYS 13-14 PLITVICE LAKES TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Take one last longing look at Plitvice Lakes before we hit the road to Budapest. There’s just enough time for one last driving tour on day 13 before we wrap up the trip with a farewell dinner.

When day 14 comes, it’s Splitsville. Quick, let’s be Facebook friends! (B,D) (B)

SHORT BREAKS

SHORT BREAKS

71

Whether you’re en route to your next fabulous destination, looking to explore a city more in depth or simply have some time to kill pre or post adventure, these city escapes are where it’s at. Expect bucket loads of free time and heaps of Instagram-worthy moments.

3 OR 4 DAY

3 OR 4 DAY

D U B A I S H O RT BR E A K

A B U D H A B I SH O R T B R E A K

TRIP CODE: MBDSDD/MBDLDD

TRIP CODE: MBASAA/MBALAA

Glittery, futuristic and springing out of the desert, Dubai has it all: from the

The capital of the UAE is a must-visit. Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,

Burj Khalifa-dominated skyline to rolling desert dunes and the man-made

see artistic wonders in the newly opened Louvre Abu Dhabi and explore Yas Island.

island of Palm Jumeirah. There’s even a snow-filled shopping mall – yes, really.

Don't miss a trip to Ferrari World or Warner Bros World while you're here!

3 D AY SH O R T B R E A K

4 D AY SH O R T B R E A K

3 D AY SH O R T B R E A K

4 D AY SH O R T B R E A K

++ ++ ++ ++ ++

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

++ 2 breakfasts ++ 2 nights in a hotel ++ Half-day city tour of Abu Dhabi (Available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays) ++ Meet and greet service ++ Return airport transfers

++ 3 breakfasts ++ 3 nights in a hotel ++ Half-day city tour of Abu Dhabi (Available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays) ++ Meet and greet service ++ Return airport transfers

4* HOTEL T WIN FROM

4* HOTEL T WIN FROM

INCLUSIONS

2 breakfasts 2 nights in a hotel Half-day city tour of Dubai Meet and greet service Return airport transfers

3* HOTEL T WIN FROM

3900

R

ZAR PER PERSON

4* HOTEL T WIN FROM

4600

R

ZAR PER PERSON

INCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS

3 breakfasts, 1 dinner in the desert 3 nights in a hotel Half-day city tour of Dubai 4x4 desert safari Meet and greet service Return airport transfers

3* HOTEL T WIN FROM

SINGLE FROM

6500

6900

R

R

ZAR PER PERSON

4* HOTEL T WIN FROM

SINGLE FROM

7300

7100

R

R

ZAR PER PERSON

INCLUSIONS

SINGLE FROM

10400

R

SINGLE FROM

11100

R

3700

R

ZAR PER PERSON

SINGLE FROM

5700

R

4600

R

ZAR PER PERSON

SINGLE FROM

7400

R

4 DAY

LONDON SHORT BREAK

LONDON PRE & POST

TRIP CODE: EBLELL/EBLHLL

Learn your Leicester Square from your Piccadilly Circus as you surf the

Need somewhere to bed down before your trip – or fancy sticking

famous underground and experience #Londonlife on this short break.

around in London Town when you’re back? No worries. We’ll hook you

Enjoy every moment, one cheesy bucket list item at a time.

up! With hotel or hostel accommodation to match your budget, it’s your trip, your way.

INCLUSIONS ++ 3 breakfasts ++ 3 nights in hostels or hotels ++ 24-hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Pass

++ 3 day London Underground and bus pass (Zones 1 and 2)

4 D AY S H O RT B R E A K DORM FROM

4500

R

ZAR per person

T WIN/DOUBLE FROM

5600

R

ZAR per person

SINGLE FROM

7839

R

ZAR per person

DORM FROM

759

R

ZAR per person

T WIN/DOUBLE FROM

1019

R

ZAR per person

SINGLE FROM

1598

R

ZAR per person

FOLLOW US /TOPDECKTRAVEL

TOPDECKTRAVEL

/TOPDECKTRAVEL

TOPDECK.TRAVEL

TOPDECKTRAVEL

BOOKING CONDITIONS Top Deck Tours Ltd, company number 04905253, 109 Power Road, London, W4 5PY, UK

Locally Operated Trips

The following trips are operated by the corresponding local operater as principle: The Lapland Express & Big Red to Red Star operated by Baltic Blues. Iceland Explorer operated by GJ travel.

Early payment

5% off if you pay in full more than six months prior to departure date.

Friends

4-6 together

5% off

7-9 together

7.5% off

10+ together

10% off

73

All passengers must be booked on the same trip/departure, prior to the departure date of the trip to qualify.

Multi-trip

2 trip multi

5% off cheapest trip

3 trip multi

7.5% off cheapest and 5% off second cheapest

4+ multi

10% off cheapest, 7.5% off second cheapest and 5% off third and additional trips

All passengers must be booked prior to the departure date of the first trip to qualify for discount. Discount applies to additional trips booked & is applied to the trip with the lowest trip value.

Past passenger

5% off - we will need to be able to verify that you have previously been on one of our trips.

All discounts apply to the trip price only and do not apply to any flights, visitor taxes, short breaks, stopovers, gap year trips, pre & post accommodation or transfers. Only two applicable and valid discounts can be combined to a maximum discount of 15% off the trip price.

Deposit

R500 per person payable at time of booking, for all Short Breaks, Stopover packages, Christmas packages, New Years Eve packages and Limited Edition trips excluding Balkan & Ski ELBSHH, Balkan Adventurer ELBSSH, Trail to the Balkan Slopes ELBSHS, The Lapland Express ELLERR R1000 per person, payable at the time of booking, for all other trips and Limited Edition's Balkan & Ski ELBSHH, Balkan Adventurer ELBSSH, Trail to the Balkan Slopes ELBSHS, The Lapland Express ELLERR.

Rolling Deposit

If you cancel your trip more than six weeks before the departure date you may request in writing at the time of cancellation that we provide you with a rolling deposit voucher for use against a future trip. The value and currency of the rolling deposit will be the value and currency of the original deposit paid. The rolling deposit cannot be redeemed by re-booking the same trip for the same departure date originally booked. The voucher must be redeemed within two years from the date of first cancellation. The rolling deposit can be transferred to a friend but cannot be transferred a second time.

The passenger must be between 18 to 39 years old to travel. Only one voucher per person per trip is permitted. If redeeming against a trip with a higher deposit the balance will be payable at the time of booking. Rolling deposits cannot be redeemed or refunded for cash.

If you cancel your trip within six weeks or less of the departure date you will forfeit your deposit and you will need to pay our applicable cancellation fee. Rolling deposit vouchers are not available for cancellations within six weeks of the departure date.

Change and Cancellation Fees

Days before departure

Change and Cancellation Fee (% of trip price)

Pre/post accommodation

Transfers

Over 42

Nil (changes)

Nil

Nil

Deposit (cancellations) 42-29

40%

40%

Nil

28-14

60%

60%

Nil

13-7

80%

100%

100%

6-3

90%

100%

100%

2-0

100%

100%

100%

Flight Change and Cancellation Fee

Any airline charges + fare & tax difference (which could be up to the full value of the ticket)

Governing law and jurisdiction

These booking conditions are governed by the laws of England. Any dispute in relation to these booking conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England.

Brochure Validity Date

Prices quoted in our brochures are calculated on costs and exchange rates at 1st November 2018

Your contract will be with us as tour operator, unless you have booked a Locally Operated Trip, in which case your contract for tour services will be with the relevant Local Operator specified in the reference table above and will be subject to that Local Operator's terms and conditions, in addition to the booking conditions set out below. For any Locally Operated Trip, the Local Operator will also be identified on your itinerary or travel documents and their respective terms and conditions will be available directly on their websites or by contacting them. Should we book a flight on your behalf it will be subject to the conditions of the respective airline, including but not limited to deposit/full payment and cancellation terms.

Please read all booking conditions carefully. You must not make any booking unless you understand and agree with these booking conditions and any additional terms and conditions as indicated above and/or at the time of booking.

Our trips are designed strictly for young people between the ages of 18 to 39 years (with the exception of Gap Year trips, which are restricted to people between the ages of 17 to 20 years).

Bookings can be made through your local travel agent or directly with us and must be secured with a deposit of the amount shown above. A contract between you and us (or between you and the relevant Local Operator) will exist as soon as: (i) we issue an invoice in response to your request for a booking; and (ii) your deposit is paid to us or your travel agent. If your booking is made through a travel agent, we will address all correspondence to that agent.

PRICE & PAYMENT The deposit is non-refundable unless we cancel your trip. The balance of your trip must be paid no later than 42 days prior to your trip departure date. If you do not pay within this period we may cancel your booking and your deposit will be forfeited. Full payment is required if you make a booking within 42 days of the departure date. If your booking is a special offer we may require full payment (including any pre and post accommodation and sundry service charges) by such earlier time as specified in the offer Prices quoted in our brochures are calculated on costs and exchange rates as at the Brochure Validity Date. These prices may increase or decrease. We may alter prices and other particulars contained in our brochures and on our website at any time. Before you make a booking we will provide you with details of the current price of your chosen trip.

Offered discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. All discounts apply to the trip price only and do not apply to any flights, visitor taxes, adventure passes, gorilla permit, short breaks, stopovers, day trips, ski trips, gap year trips, pre & post accommodation or transfers. Only two applicable and valid discounts can be combined to a maximum discount of 15% off the trip price (note: for Asia trips, only two applicable and valid discounts can be combined to a maximum discount of 10% off the trip price).

After you have booked, changes to (i) the price of fuel; (ii) the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports; and (iii) exchange rates, mean that the price of your trip may change. There will be no change within 20 days of your departure. We will absorb any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your trip. However, we may charge you for the amount over and above that. If this results in an increase equivalent to more than 8% of the price of your trip, you will have the option of accepting a change to another trip (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. Should the price of your trip go down due to the cost changes mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you. We will deduct from this refund our administrative expenses incurred. Please note that trips arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your trip due to contractual and other protection in place.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Please ensure you carefully read your invoice, tickets and all other documents we send to you as soon as you receive them and contact us or your travel agent immediately if any information appears to be incorrect. We will not accept any liability if you fail to notify us of any inaccuracy in any document within 14 days of us sending them to you or the travel agent. You are responsible for ensuring that you have the correct and valid travel documents including passports, visas and vaccination certificates. We strongly recommend that you verify current documentation requirements with your travel agent or us. Please note requirements change and you must check with your consulate for the most up to date information, including but not limited to visa requirements for the countries visited on your trip. Passports must have an expiry date of at least six months after completion of the trip.

unforeseen alterations to public transport schedules, changes to immigration, labour and free-movement laws resulting from BREXIT, rescheduling of aircraft or boats and similar events). If this happens we will offer you a refund of all money paid or, if available, alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). A material modification is one that has a serious impact on your trip and includes a change of departure date, departure point or airport, or change of departure time of more than twelve hours, which would cause substantial inconvenience to you.

A change of accommodation, or transport method/style is not a material modification.

We may alter or substitute the type or size of vehicle, or method/style of transport mentioned in the brochure, depending on the number of passengers carried, which can vary from trip to trip. Normally the maximum group size is between 36 and 48 passengers. In certain countries there are strict laws governing drivers' hours and this may necessitate utilising public transport in some cities.

We may require a minimum number of participants for certain trips. In the event that insufficient bookings have been made as at 42 days prior to departure, we may cancel the scheduled trip, whereupon all money paid by you for your trip will be refunded and no further compensation will be paid.

OUR LIABILITY TO YOU FOR TOPDECK OPERATED TRIPS If the trip does not materially comply with the description in the brochure, we may compensate you to a maximum value equal to the price of the trip. We will only be liable to pay the maximum amount of compensation where there has been a total failure of consideration for your payment.

We will not be liable where any failure in the performance or provision of your trip is due to: (i) your acts or omissions or the acts or omissions of another member in your group; (ii) any third party not connected with the provision of your travel arrangements or (iii) unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances.

Our liability will in all cases be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to relevant international conventions, including the Carriage by Air Conventions (within the meaning given in section 1(5) of the Carriage by Air Act 1961), the Athens Convention of 1974 on the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea and the Convention of 1980 concerning International Carriage by Rail.

We will not be responsible for any loss or damage sustained by you as a result of a contravention of any law or regulation of any of the countries visited while on the trip.

OUR LIABILITY TO YOU FOR LOCALLY OPERATED TRIPS If your trip is a Locally Operated Trip our obligation to you is to (and you expressly authorise us to) make trip bookings on your behalf with reasonable skill and care and to arrange a contract between you and the relevant Local Operator. We exercise care in the selection of reputable Local Operators but we have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties. All bookings are made on your behalf subject to these and all other terms and conditions, including any conditions of carriage and limitations of liability imposed by the Local Operator. Your legal rights in connection with such trips are solely against the Local Operator and are not against us, except to the extent a problem is caused by fault on our part.

SEATBELTS You must wear a seatbelt at all times whilst you are in any vehicle. Neither we nor any Local Operator will be liable for any injury, death or claim howsoever arising from any accident if you have failed to comply with this requirement.

FLEXIBILITY DURING TRIP Your booking is accepted on the condition that you understand, and take responsibility for, the risks inherent in adventure travel. Every effort will be made to operate all trips featured in this brochure but there may be a necessity to vary the itinerary from that stated in the brochure, and delays may occur for a variety of reasons beyond our control.

The need for a flexible attitude to this type of travel is important. All decisions relating to a trip itinerary will be taken by the Trip Leader, as appointed by us in the interest of the group as a whole. Please note that due to public holidays some sights or activities may not be available on a particular trip. No refund will be made for services which for whatever reason are not used by you once the trip has departed.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS

IF YOU CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR BOOKING If you want to change or cancel any aspect of your booking including but not limited to a change to a trip of shorter duration or different departure date you must notify us in writing. We will do our best to accommodate your requested change, but it may not always be possible. We will not charge a fee for changes requested more than 42 days before departure except where we incur a cost from a supplier, in which case we will advise you of the relevant fee. All change/cancellation fees must be paid within seven days of the invoice date or on the date of departure, whichever is the sooner.

You may make a request to transfer your booking to another person who satisfies all the conditions applicable to the trip. A transfer request must be made in writing not less than 7 days prior to departure and must include proof of acceptance of the transfer by the new traveller. Both you and the new traveller will remain jointly liable and responsible for the additional costs involved, which will include our Booking Transfer Administration Fee as well as any other applicable travel service provider’s charges. Please note that some airlines may refuse such requests and treat the transfer as a cancellation and rebooking.

CANCELLATION OR MODIFICATION BY US Every effort will be made to operate all trips as advertised but it must be remembered that our trips are planned up to eighteen months in advance. In the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances we may be required to cancel or materially modify your trip. In these booking conditions "unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances" means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken (including, but not limited to, war, threat of war, riot, civil disturbances, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or other disaster (such as volcanic ash or hurricanes), nuclear incident, fire, adverse weather conditions (actual or threatened, including snow and fog), closed or congested airports or ports, unavoidable technical problems with transport,

Neither we nor our employees, agents and contractors make any representation or warranty in relation to implied or explicit suggestions or recommendations of services, activities and events not highlighted as included in a trip. You are responsible for all risks associated with the transportation to/from, and your participation in, or visitation to, any place, activity or excursion not listed as an inclusion.

During your trip you may be offered the chance to purchase various optional excursions and activities. We do not own, operate or control any of the companies or individuals which provide the optional activities or excursions. Some of the optional activities and excursions, such as canyoning, are inherently dangerous and risky. If you want to take part in such optional activities or excursions you must be fit enough to do so and must follow all reasonable instructions. The standards of health and safety which will be adopted by the company or the individual providing the optional activity or excursion will be those of the country where the optional activity or excursion takes place. Please note that these standards may not be the same as you would find in your home country. If you wish to book any optional excursion or activity, you may do so subject to the operator’s terms and conditions. Your contract will be with the operator of the activity or excursion and will be governed by local law. We act only as their agent. We accept no liability for any act or omission of any operator or operator’s employees, agents or sub-contractors or any losses (whether direct or indirect and howsoever caused) arising therefrom.

DIETARY, HEALTH AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENT You must clearly state all your dietary requirements at the time of booking. We cannot guarantee that special dietary requirements can be met and we cannot take responsibility for any such requirements not being fulfilled.

Walking is a fundamental part of our trips and many of our trips may not be suitable for people with reduced mobility. If you have a medical condition or require special

arrangements that may affect your trip, we ask that you inform us in writing at the time of booking. If we cannot reasonably accommodate your particular needs we may decline the booking or ask for you to be accompanied by a person who is able to provide full assistance to you throughout your trip.

YOUR LIABILITY TO US You will not be permitted to embark or continue on the trip if your mental or physical condition is, in the reasonable opinion of our representative, such as to render you incapable of caring for yourself, or where you become objectionable to other passengers, or you become a hazard to yourself or other passengers. We will not be responsible for expenses resulting in you being precluded from completing the trip for any reason, nor will we refund you any part of your trip cost. In all cases we will notify you of the reasons why we have taken this action. We will have no obligation to arrange for your return to the point of the trip departure if your condition manifests itself after the trip departure.

Further, if the trip involves travel by air, the captain of your aircraft can refuse to allow you to fly on the aircraft if he believes that you could be dangerous or disruptive to other passengers on the flight.

You agree to indemnify us in full against all losses (direct and indirect and howsoever caused) arising from any third-party actions taken against us for loss or damage caused by you or arising from your participation on the trip.

INSURANCE & CLAIMS You must take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel on your trip. Your insurance protection must include cover for cancellation, medical and repatriation expenses, personal injury and accident, death, and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability insurance. Evidence of such insurances must be produced to us on request and normally on day one of your trip. Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive.

If you make a claim against us you agree to assign to us or our insurers any rights to take action against any third party supplier/tour operator or any other person or party that may have been wholly or partly responsible for the claim or who we reasonably consider should be a party to the action. You must co-operate fully with us should we or our insurers wish to enforce those rights which have been assigned to us. If you make a claim against us which is covered by your insurance policy, you agree to pursue the claim through your insurer either in addition to, or in substitution for, your claim against us (if any). We agree to indemnify you in respect of reasonable expenses incurred in successfully pursuing such a claim and acknowledge that any settlement made by the insurer shall not prejudice your rights against us.

TRAVEL ADVICE We recommend that you visit your government's travel advice website prior to the commencement of travel. In the UK, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office issues travel advice and warnings at fco.gov.uk. The Australian government provides an equivalent service at smartraveller.gov.au.

COMPLAINTS In the event of any dissatisfaction with the accommodation or any other service provided by us, you must report it immediately to the Trip Leader so that action can be taken to remedy the problem. Failure to immediately notify the Trip Leader of any problem may result in your claim for compensation from us being denied or reduced. Any complaint made to us following the conclusion of the trip should be made in writing within 28 days of completion of the trip. In the event that you do not notify us in writing within 28 days, our ability to investigate the complaint may be prejudiced. In the UK, we can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com.

DATA PROTECTION We are committed to protecting your personal information and agree to process your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Notice, which is available online at www.topdeck.travel/privacy. In order to make your booking and ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly, we need to use the information you provide and pass it on to other relevant suppliers who are responsible for parts of your travel arrangements.

In many cases this will include transferring your data to overseas recipients (including to recipients outside of the European Union). Personal information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law.

SMOKING We enforce a non-smoking policy on our coaches (although we make frequent stops for breaks) and in most of our accommodation.

LUGGAGE There are strict weight limits for coaches when fully loaded. You are only entitled to have one piece of main luggage of standard size (see the pre-departure information or our website for size limits) and not weighing more than 20kg (or 15kg for Outback trips). In addition you may bring a sleeping bag, as required on specific trips, and a daypack.

PUBLISHING CONSENT You acknowledge and agree that our future advertising and publicity material may include statements made by passengers, or their photographs, and you consent to such use of your comments or photographic/video likeness.

WI-FI We will endeavor to deliver Wi-Fi connection as stated on relevant trips to the best of our ability. This service is subject to availability and may not be available on some peak season departures or in the event of technical issues.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Topdeck's Details

4 DAY ICELAND EXPLORER

MAPS

74

REYKJAVÍK

EHICJJ

REYKJAVÍK

10 DAY BIG RED TO RED STAR

P.22

HELSINKI

EUROPE

EHWBHM

MOSCOW

LONDON

EHWWLL

LONDON

P.29

2 Amsterdam NETHERLANDS

START/FINISH

London

ENGLAND START

Helsinki FINLAND

WINTER

1 START/FINISH

2 Paris

Salzburg

FRANCE

1

Thingvellir National Park

ICELAND

1 Heidelberg GERMANY

2

Tallinn ESTONIA

Gullfoss Falls

Reykjavík

St Petersburg RUSSIA

2

AUSTRIA

overnight train

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

Blue Lagoon

HOTEL

14 DAY WINTER WONDER

P.26

2 Verona

3

EXPLORER

Florence

FINISH

Moscow

ITALY

LIMITED EDITION

DAYS TRIP NAME 8 PARADES TO PIAZZAS 9 HADRIAN'S PATH

20 DAY DISCOVER WINTER LONDON

EHWDLL

LONDON

EHWXLL P.34

Amsterdam

Berlin

NETHERLANDS

GERMANY

START/FINISH

2

2

ENGLAND

ENGLAND

2

2

London

Dresden

Dresden Prague

2 2

Mauthausen

FRANCE

1

Lake Bled

Florence ITALY

1 2 Venice

STARTS LONDON ROME BUDAPEST ROME

11 DAY WINTER BRAVO ITALIA ROME

ROME

P.40

GERMANY

1

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

Ljubljana

SLOVENIA

Alps

AUSTRIA

2

Milan

ITALY

2 Kraków

POLAND

CZECH REPUBLIC

1

Verona

Lake Bled Ljubljana

1 2 Venice

Budapest 2 HUNGARY

SLOVENIA

2

Florence

2

Orvieto Rome

VATICAN CITY

P. 23 24 25 27

CODE EHWDLR EHWDRP EHWDHL EHWDRL

DAYS 10 14 16 21

TRIP NAME EASTERN JOURNEY WINTER SPREE TRAIL TO THE ALPS WINTER PATHWAY

14 DAY WINTER BRITAIN & IRELAND LONDON

1

AuschwitzBirkenau Prague Český Krumlov

LIECHTENSTEIN Austrian

Pisa

ENDS ROME PRAGUE LONDON LONDON

EXWIRR

2 Paris

1

Rome

TRIP NAME PARADES TO PIAZZAS ROMAN TRAIL DEMOCRACY ROAD CAESAR'S PATHWAY

Munich

FRANCE

2

AUSTRIA

Verona

DAYS 8 10 10 14

Budapest

HUNGARY

Vienna

Swiss Alps

SWITZERLAND

2

2

CZECH REPUBLIC

Paris

ENDS P. CODE ROME 23 EHW WLR LONDON 23 EHW WRL

LONDON

Berlin

Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS

London

LONDON

VATICAN CITY

2

28 DAY WINTER EXPEDITION

P.31

START/FINISH

STARTS LONDON ROME

2 Venice

1

Rome

HOSTEL PLUS

1

STARTS BUDAPEST MUNICH LONDON ROME

EXWULL

LONDON

P.41

2

VATICAN CITY

ENDS BERLIN LONDON MUNICH LONDON

P. 24 28 30 32

CODE EHW XHG EHW XUL EHW XLU EHW XRL

8 DAY WINTER SCANDI EXPRESS COPENHAGEN

EEWJCC

COPENHAGEN

P.56

Loch Ness

optional day trip

Milan

1

2 Venice Maranello Florence

Pisa

2

San Marino

1 Assisi

Orvieto

2

VATICAN CITY

START/FINISH

Rome ITALY

Glasgow Giant’s Causeway

1

Londonderry/Derry Galway

IRELAND

2

Oslo

Edinburgh

1

SCOTLAND

NORWAY

2

Belfast

NORTHERN IRELAND

Stockholm

1 York

SWEDEN

1 Liverpool

2 Dublin

START/FINISH

Copenhagen

Oxford

2 Sorrento Cardiff

WALES

DAYS TRIP NAME 7 BRITISH WINTER WARMER 8 WINTER CELTIC TRAIL

STARTS LONDON BELFAST

DENMARK

START/FINISH

London

2 Bath

ENGLAND

Stonehenge ENDS GLASGOW LONDON

P. 38 39

CODE EX WULG EX WUBL

1

1

PRAGUE

11 DAY WINTER EXPRESS

EEELPB

BUDAPEST

P.47

LONDON

EEWNLL

LONDON

P.51

18 DAY WINTER GETAWAY LONDON

EEWGLL

LONDON

P.56 Berlin

Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS

GERMANY

2

2

START/FINISH

London

ENGLAND

Dresden Amsterdam

START

NETHERLANDS

Prague

START/FINISH

2

ENGLAND

Krakรณw 2 POLAND

AuschwitzBirkenau

Vienna

AUSTRIA

1

2

2

London

CZECH REPUBLIC

Mauthausen

Swiss Alps

FRANCE

2

Swiss Alps

2 Verona

2

Budapest

Venice

DAYS TRIP NAME 10 WINTER ESCAPE 11 VENTURE TO VENICE

EEWMLL

LONDON

P.58

STARTS VENICE LONDON

START/FINISH

LONDON

ENDS LONDON VENICE

P. 49 52

EEWSLL P.60 Berlin

Amsterdam

GERMANY

NETHERLANDS

START/FINISH

2

2

2

London

ENGLAND

Dresden City 1 Luxembourg LUXEMBOURG

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

2 Paris

FRANCE

Swiss Alps

2

2

1 SPAIN

Madrid

DAYS 7 9 10 16

TRIP NAME SOUTHERN RUNNER NORTHERN DIRECTIONS WESTERN RUNNER WESTERN CORNERS

ITALY

LONDON

Swiss Alps

2

AUSTRIA

1 Bratislava

SLOVAKIA

SWITZERLAND

2 Venice

2 Budapest HUNGARY

2 Verona

2

Rome

2 Barcelona

2

VATICAN CITY

2 Venice

ELCBLL

LONDON

P.64

Florence 2 ITALY

Pisa

Orvieto Rome

1 Valencia

STARTS LONDON ROME MADRID LONDON

4 DAY BRUGES CHRISTMAS

Salzburg

Paris

Florence

POLAND

Marseille

Bilbao

2

2

Vienna

FRANCE

2 Verona

2 Bordeaux

Auschwitz-Birkenau Krakรณw

2

2

SWITZERLAND

Loire Valley

CODE EEWGVL EEWGLV

LONDON

NETHERLANDS

London

VATICAN CITY

2

24 DAY WINTER SPIRIT

Amsterdam

ENGLAND

ITALY

Orvieto Rome

ITALY

24 DAY WESTERN COMPASS

Florence

2

Pisa

2

HUNGARY

LONDON

2 Venice

SWITZERLAND

FINISH

1

AUSTRIA

SWITZERLAND

1 Munich GERMANY

Paris

SLOVAKIA

Salzburg

Paris

FRANCE

2

Bratislava

1

2

1 Rhine Valley

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

ENDS MADRID LONDON ROME ROME

P. 44 48 50 53

CODE EEWMLM EEWMRL EEWMMR EEWMLR

4 DAY AMSTERDAM NEW YEAR

ELNAAA

AMSTERDAM P.64

DAYS 7 7 9 18

TRIP NAME SPIRES IN THE SNOW WINTER WALTZ MARCH ON ROME WINTER RHAPSODY

STARTS BUDAPEST PRAGUE LONDON ROME

4 DAY EDINBURGH NEW YEAR

ELNEEE

EDINBURGH P.65

VATICAN CITY

2

ENDS PRAGUE LONDON ROME LONDON

P. 44 45 48 54

CODE EEWSHP EEWSPL EEWSLR EEWSRL

5 DAY EDINBURGH NEW YEAR LONDON

ELNELL

LONDON

P.65

Edinburgh

SCOTLAND

4

START/FINISH

START/FINISH

London

ENGLAND

Bruges

BELGIUM

Amsterdam

START/FINISH

Edinburgh

NETHERLANDS

SCOTLAND

Brussels START/FINISH

London

ENGLAND

4 DAY ST PATRICK'S DAY

ELPDDD

DUBLIN P.66

4 DAY THE LAPLAND EXPRESS

ELLERR

ROVANIEMI P.67

14 DAY BALKANS & SKI BUDAPEST

ELBSHH

BUDAPEST

P.70

1

1

START/FINISH

Budapest

HUNGARY START/FINISH

Dublin

IRELAND

Rovaniemi FINLAND

2

2 Plitvice Lakes CROATIA

1

Timisoara ROMANIA

Belgrade

1

2

SERBIA

Bucharest

Sarajevo

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Sofia

BULGARIA DAYS TRIP NAME 8 TRAIL TO THE BALKAN SLOPES 10 BALK AN ADVENTURER

STARTS BUDAPEST SOFIA

ENDS SOFIA BUDAPEST

P. 68 69

CODE ELBSHS ELBSSH

75 MAPS

9 DAY EASTERN LIGHTS

ZA R

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