Prestige Escorted Group Tours by Travel Designers

ESCORTED gROup TOuRS 2019

Est. 1989

PRESTIGE Explore | Dream | Discover

or call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

For more details visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

Hello and welcome to Prestige i’m so delighted to show you our wonderful range of escorted group tours to some fascinating countries in Europe and further afield. When we set up Prestige Holidays back in 1989, i’d already been in the travel industry since leaving school and had witnessed first hand the rapid expansion of the sector. Those were exciting times, but all too soon the connection with the customer and pride in giving good service was in danger of being lost. that’s why we set up Prestige, with a mission to deliver service, value and our unparalleled expertise to our customers. Then, as now, we only offered destinations which we know intimately, and our passion was to ensure that our customers got the holiday they deserved. Good things rarely go out of fashion and i’m delighted to say that, more than a quarter of a century later, our business still firmly stands on those foundations. Our customers place great trust in us and continue to enjoy the treasures we find for them, time and time again. We are happy to stake our name on it, and offer our Prestige Pledge to hand-pick only those places that will make your holiday special. Within this brochure you’ll find some meticulously planned and unique itineraries showcasing some of world’s most interesting destinations. We offer extensive programmes in italy, Greece and eastern europe along with new tours to places such as Jordan, Morocco, Iran, China and South East Asia. Complimenting this is a range of opera inspired tours, casual cruises in Croatia and two very special iconic journeys. I struggle to pick my favourite. I hope you love them as much as I do! I take great pride in introducing you to all of my colleagues at Prestige. Our reservations team have a first-hand, in-depth knowledge of our destinations - like no other tour operator I know of. But please don’t just take my word for it, I encourage you to call us and discover this for yourselves. Best wishes

John dixon Managing director and fellow traveller

For more visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk ordetails call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

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thiNkiNG oF You... exceptional Value We won’t leave you wanting. our tours have exceptional inclusions for the price you pay, including a number of meals and all entrance fees. You’ll never get the shock of any hidden fees. small groups our tours have just 20 guests on average, with the maximum number usually capped at 26. We aim to provide a more intimate group feel; after all, travel is as much about the people you meet as the places you see. meticulous itineraries our itineraries are not copied, but created. every attention is paid to detail by experts in the region, and we aim to include experiences often overlooked. We select our suppliers carefully, and aim to create long-lasting relationships with people who understand our values. culinary delights We don’t just add half-board to your hotel. Gastronomy is as much part of the experience as the itinerary itself; we source local eateries to provide an authentic taste of the region. great staff We pride ourselves on our personal service. Not only do we design and co-ordinate the tours in these pages ourselves, but we also take reservations, meaning we are on-hand to help with any questions or preparation, however small. 100% financial security We are a fully-bonded aBta, atol, aito and iata member, so your money is safe with us. we listen We take our clients’ feedback seriously. our itineraries are constantly tweaked and amended to ensure we can always deliver the trip of a lifetime. Ba preferred partner as a preferred partner of British airways, we are able to offer you the very best prices, and that’s why the majority of our tours use their services.

For more details visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

cHooSing THE rigHT ToUr... R

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cultural

Discover some rich cultural treats. This category encompasses some specialist interest itineraries, all accompanied by guide lecturers to really understand the nitty-gritty. From the Palaces of South East Asia to our expanding Italian opera festival programme, you are sure to find something to whet your cultural appetite.

t A n c ie n world

natural Wonders Take a walk on the wild side. This selection of tours is inspired by nature, providing the opportunity to view, up close, some iconic species and national parks with the help of expert guides. Try china: The Wild Middle Kingdom and our enduringly popular Flora and Fauna in the Scillies departures.

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ancient World Whether you’re already familiar with a region or you’re a first-time visitor, these itineraries delve a little more into the fascinating histories of our selected areas. accompanied by guide lecturers, uncover the rich legacy of rome of the caesars, and discover the italy of the Etruscans.

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iconic Journey New for 2019. These rather special itineraries follow in the footsteps of specific characters, events or routes, accompanied by a leading guide lecturer to bring these stories to life. introducing: liberation Europe: 75th anniversary and lawrence of arabia’s War.

Tours with authentic, creative itineraries showcasing the highlights of your chosen location. Travel in shoulder season to avoid the crowds, and dine in carefully selected local eateries. new for 2019, look out for Morocco Explorer and Discover the Baltic States.

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HoW To BooK... call us on 01425 480 600 our small team has a comprehensive knowledge of our tours and a passion for making your trip perfect. They will answer any question you may have and help with any extras, from airport hotels and parking to advice on currency and visas. visit us online at WWW.toursPrestigeHolidays.co.uk although our tours cannot be booked online, our website features a wealth of information on each one, including detailed itineraries and booking forms. e-mail us at tours@PrestigeHolidays.co.uk Our inbox is carefully monitored, and if you would like any further information sent to you about a specific tour, we would be delighted to assist you. visit your local travel agent Your local travel agent will be happy to make all the necessary booking arrangements for you. We work with a large networks of agencies, from small professional independents to larger chains, and appreciate you may wish to use your favourite.

or call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

meet our tour managers Julia Berg

the travel bug grabbed Julia at an early age when she attended school in France from her home in sussex; the adventure of trains, boats, planes, and discovering new places has forever remained a passion. Her love affair with Croatia started in 1993 and has extended across the Balkans and Eastern Europe since, having escorted tours, celebrities and film crews. She speaks French, German, Spanish, Croatian (an ongoing work, being one of the world’s most difficult languages). Famous for finding “hidden secrets” on tours!

sHaron Kivity

Sharon (pronounced Sharòn) Kivity is British and has the good fortune to live in both the UK and Umbria. She has a first class degree in modern languages and subsequently gained a masters. sharon has worked as a tour manager for many years and is passionate about travel and in particular, sharing her love of italy with her guests on tour. When not escorting groups around italy and europe, she is usually found cooking for friends…then working it off by jogging and long walks. sharon loves classical music and in parallel to her career in tourism, used to run several arts festivals, including one dedicated to chamber music.

Brian lane

Brian is charismatic and full of life and has been leading tours to worldwide destinations for over 10 years. Bringing a professional but approachable manner to our tours, Brian is a firm favourite with our clients. His recent tours to Albania and Macedonia have become favourite locations for him. the archaeology, geography and history of this beautiful region are fascinating, and he is excited to see them develop as destinations of choice. in his spare time, Brian enjoys golf, walking with his dog, sasha, and asian cooking.

leonie loudon

leonie’s bubbly and affable character backed with over 10 years’ experience leading tours to numerous worldwide locations makes her a perfect choice for managing a number of our group tours in 2019. Fluent in Italian, Spanish and French and a qualified wine sommelier, she has led numerous wine themed tours backed with an understanding of the ancient world. Her good sense of humour and tenacious attitude are a real hit with our clients, and this is backed by the superb feedback she receives.

anne-marie mCdonagH

anne-marie who is originally from ireland has over 25 years experience in the tourist industry on Crete. after a holiday in Corfu as a teenager Anne-Marie decided that she wanted to live in Greece. However it was the beautiful island of Crete that finally stole her heart. she is passionate about its rich history, culture and customs and loves discovering and sharing its little hidden gems (just ask her about story of the old chimney in the village of Katalagari!). In her spare time Anne-Marie enjoys arts & crafts and walking.

alexander oliver

alexander studied ancient History at the university of exeter and has worked in the travel industry for 10 years. He has travelled extensively throughout europe, China, south-east asia and australasia, and spent a year living and working on the greek island of santorini. His favourite travel memory is either hiking the ruined Jiankou section of the great Wall of China, or visiting the bulletpocked Khmer temple at disputed border region of Preah vihear in northern Cambodia. He speaks greek to a moderate level.

susie reed

susie has been in the travel and hospitality business for most of her career, working within the hotel, airline, tour operating and event management industries both in the uK and overseas. she has lived in australia, greece, Canada and the usa. For the past 20 years she has been particularly involved in the incentive and group travel business, during which time she has held positions in sales/marketing and operations and has been responsible for developing, marketing and operating tailor-made incentive and group travel programmes overseas and in the uK. she has a great deal of experience in hosting high end travel events and is passionate about providing the best in hospitality and service levels.

Paul stratton

Paul is our expert on all things italy. He has over 30 years’ experience in providing the travel trade advice on italy as a destination, and has worked with Prestige for 12 years, creating a perfect product portfolio and exciting tour itineraries. With a home in lake garda, Paul’s love affair with italy started when he was only 16 when he took a train from london to Palermo, sicily, and he still recalls the assault on his senses when he arrived. a charismatic personality and dedication to impressing clients with his local knowledge, we are still trying to find a fault!

estHer unterWeger

Born in austria, esther studied Provincial archaeology and art History at the university of graz, austria. later, esther travelled to the uK to study maritime archaeology in southampton. esther has worked for various museums and universities in austria, england, spain, oman and Croatia, researching the cultural history, art, architecture and other material remnants of various cultures. Currently, she works for unesCo and the Kuratorium Pfahlbauten as an underwater archaeologist in austria to research neolithic lake dwellings.

For more details visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

Meet our Guide lecturers dr roderick Bailey

Dr Roderick Bailey is an historian at Oxford University and specialises in the study of the Second World War. His books include the Sunday Times top-ten bestseller, Forgotten Voices of D-Day, and he was an expert commentator in normandy during the BBC’s coverage of the 70th anniversary of the landings. Dr Bailey is also a research associate at the Imperial War Museum, a member of Council of the British School at Athens, and a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. Away from academia, he has worked extensively in post-conflict countries for the EU and OSCE as an official observer of international elections, and served with the British Army in Afghanistan.

diana BluMBerG

diana Blumberg is an archaeological scientist specialising in roman archaeology and the analysis of archaeological materials. she has excavated on a number of sites in Italy and the UK, including 11 field seasons in Pompeii. As well as a qualified school teacher, Diana has been a museum educator and a lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Winchester. As well as ancient Rome, Diana has a strong personal interest in the Etruscans. She has led walking tours in Rome, and her passion, enthusiasm and warm personality combined with her informal teaching style make her a true asset as a guide lecturer.

DAVID BROTHERSOn

David Brotherson is a PhD candidate with the Department of Archaeology at the University of Sydney. He is a member of the Greater Angkor Project, an international research programme headed by the University of Sydney in collaboration with Cambodia and France, investigating the development, daily life and eventual demise of Angkor. His research focuses on Angkor’s decline, studying the relationship between domestic ceramics, settlement patterning and international trade. David lives in Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to the temples of Angkor.

dr neil Faulkner

Dr neil Faulkner is an archaeologist, historian, and writer. He lectures widely in archaeology, ancient history, classical civilisation, modern history, and current affairs. He is the Editor of the popular magazine Military History Monthly and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London. neil is the director of several archaeological projects, including the Great Arab Revolt Project, which explored sites associated with Lawrence of Arabia’s campaigns in southern Jordan.

DR CHRISTInA HATzIMICHAEL-WHITLEy

Dr Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley studied Archaeology and Art History at Thessaloniki (BA), Toronto (MA) and Cambridge (PhD). She has been teaching at Cardiff University since 2008, including widely in Aegean prehistory, Greek art and religion, and classical archaeology. Christina has a sound grounding in archaeological fieldwork and has been the assistant director in the Praisos Project in Crete since 2006. She has been leading tours with her flamboyant and lively style since 2009, and helps to plans tours using her deep inside knowledge to ensure guests receive a taste of the local Greek culture. This also extends to the best local Greek cuisine, selecting lunch and dinner venues from some of her favourite dining experiences.

dr eireann Marshall

Dr Eireann Marshall is an honorary Research Fellow and Associate Lecturer at the Open University. She has recently embarked on a project in the frontiers of the Roman Empire with the University of Roehampton and has published several edited volumes, including Women’s contribution to classical civilisation and death and disease in the ancient city.

adrian MourBy

Adrian Mourby has worked as a BBC drama producer, opera producer and journalist, and for many years gave talks about opera on BBC Radio 3. He still regularly writes programme essays for numerous operatic societies. Adrian’s own productions have been predominantly of operas from the baroque repertoire, but he has a particular love of Italian opera. In 2007, the Torre del Lago Festival awarded him its Puccini Medal for his original work advancing Puccini scholarship. Adrian has had three novels published as well as two AA guide books and a book of humour based on his award-winning Radio 4 series Whatever Happened To? In 2017, Icon Books published two new titles by Adrian, Rooms of One’s Own and Rooms with a View.

JOHn OSBORnE

John Osborne graduated in Classics at Cambridge University and taught classical subjects for over thirty years at Marlborough College, where he was Senior Master. He worked for several years for the British Council in Iran and Turkey, which gave him a now longstanding interest in Islamic culture. John is a nADFAS-accredited lecturer and has lectured regularly for nADFAS (now the Arts Society) and other organizations at home and abroad since 2005. He has lectured on Ancient Rome and Islam at the University of Bath, and leads and lectures on specialist tours abroad to various countries, but in particular Iran and Bulgaria, for which he has a special enthusiasm.

Will WaGstaFF

Will Wagstaff is a leading ornithologist and naturalist, who has led tours in destinations from the Isles of Scilly all the way to the Falkland Islands. Will is the Scillies’ leading authority on birds, flowers and butterflies, and he can also talk on other aspects of island life, from archaeology to history to place names and shipwrecks, should the wildlife hide away. Will has held an active role in conservation work around the islands for the last 20 years and is an honorary president for the islands’ Bird Group. He has also appeared on TV’s Three Men in a Boat and Wild Britain and written the Bradt Travel Guide on the Falkland Islands.

or call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

For more details visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

ITalY I was lucky enough to be offered Italian at my school back in the 1970’s and never looked back! after a study trip to Perugia, I came back to the UK thinking I had been born in the wrong place... the glorious weather, the delicious food, the welcoming people, the beautiful architecture and addictive vibe of ‘la dolce vita’... yes, the Italian bug had bitten me! So, in 1978 I took a train to Sicily and spent the summer with what is now my ‘extended’ Sicilian family. This experience paved the way to a thirty year career and love affair with Italy. There are few places in the world that boast such a multi-dimensional offering within short distances. Incredible culture, ranging from the Greek to the Spanish dominations, amazing scenery from the stunning Dolomites to the sunflower filled rolling Tuscan hills, fascinating medieval towns and cities, beautiful coastline and islands... only unified 160 years ago, today Italy offers an enviable variety of attractions which makes each local area so unique. add to this an unparalleled spread of superb cuisine and wines and the overall combination becomes unbeatable! our Italian tours are carefully thought through to provide an authentic experience and a relaxed pace. Smaller-sized groups, accommodation reflecting the local culture, travelling outside of the peak season, and most importantly eating out in local traditional trattorie and restaurants! From the Etruscan delights of Tuscany, to the UNESco sights of Puglia and Sicily, you can be assured of an unforgettable holiday...

Paul Stratton italian specialist

or call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

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Wonders of sicily 1 0 dAY E s c o rt E d g ro u P to u r

sicily’s rich and colourful past has given rise to an incredible land of diversity and cultural treasures. Now in its fifth year, this is one of our flagship tours and is an enduringly popular way to discover Sicily for the first time.

Castellammare del Golfo • Erice • Segesta • Monreale • Palermo • Selinunte Agrigento • Naro • Modica • Scicli • Ibla di Ragusa • Ortigia (Siracusa) sicily is a beguiling land of contrasts. A pleasant year-round climate, friendly people, superb food and wine, stunning landscapes and a heady mix of cultural attractions - sicily has it all! upon arrival, although technically in italy, your senses tell you otherwise. this beautiful island’s rich and colourful past, colonized by the greeks, romans, Normans, and Moors, has given rise to an incredible land of diversity, from the fascinating souks of Palermo to the majestic greek temples of Agrigento and the Baroque treasures of the south east. during this ‘off the beaten track’ tour, visit and experience a range of greek, roman and Norman attractions intermingled with local flavour and colour, staying in parts of the more ‘authentic’ sicily, and dining out in local trattorie - meaning you will get a feel for the ‘real’ life on this bewitching island. Both the west and south/south east areas of sicily will be covered, avoiding the main tourist resorts on the island.

tour highlights • • • • •

Experience an authentic sicily, and immerse yourself in its culture Visit the unforgettable medieval Arabic hilltop town of Erice Explore the greek temple and amphitheatre of the ancient city, segesta View the Norman mosaics of Monreale Visit the greek sites of selinunte and the Valley of the temples

whAt’s iNcludEd • • • • • •

return flights from london gatwick to sicily 9 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, three lunches and eight evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y FAC t S Departure dates: 9 Apr & 5 Nov 2019 Price per person: £1,799 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Palermo. Inbound: Catania to London Gatwick. Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D) Arrival. Transfer to Castellammare del Golfo with a coffee stop en route. Light evening meal at a local trattoria. Overnight: Castellammare del Golfo

Afternoon visit to Scicli, featured in popular scenes from the detective series Montalbano. Overnight: Modica Day 8 (B, D) Depart to the nearby Baroque UNESCO town, Ibla di Ragusa, for a short guided tour.

Day 2 (B, D) Visit the medieval Arabic hilltop town, Erice. This afternoon, explore the Greek temple and amphitheatre at Segesta. Dinner in an authentic trattoria.

Dinner at the superb agriturismo, the Relais Torre Marabino, an ex-Norman fortress which produces its own organic fare and wines. Overnight: Modica

Overnight: Castellammare del Golfo

Day 9 (B, L)

Day 3 (B, D)

Morning visit to the Baroque peninsula of Ortigia for a guided walking tour. Afternoon at leisure.

A full day encompassing both Monreale and Palermo.

Overnight: Ortigia

Marvel at the gold leaf mosaics at Monreale, stroll through a typical Palermo street market, and visit the Palatine Chapel.

Day 10 (B) Departure.

This evening, enjoy a meal at Baglio Fontana, including a wine tasting and traditional meal, with an explanation of the tuna fishing industry in Sicily.

C L I E N T F E E D B AC k

Overnight: Castellammare del Golfo Day 4 (B, L, D)

“Outstanding in every respect. The thought behind each day’s programme was evident.”

Visit Selinunte, one of the largest and most impressive Greek archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Enjoy a long and leisurely seafood lunch at the fabulous Da Vittorio Ristorante, as seen on Sicily Unpacked and Rick Stein’s Great Mediterranean Escapes. This afternoon, take the coastal drive to Agrigento. Overnight: Agrigento

Mr and Mrs McLean, Cambridge Palermo

“Excellent value for money, very high standard of local food, real sense of Sicilian culture and history and attention paid to individual needs - a really wonderful holiday with a warm group feeling.”

Agrigento

Morning walking tour of the Valley of the Temples. Visit a working olive oil farm, including an olive oil tasting and lunch. Continue to the hilltop town of Naro, with its medieval castle and panoramic views. Overnight: Agrigento Day 6 (B, D) Guided tour of the Roman Villa del Casale. Continue to the Baroque south east for an early evening arrival at Modica. Overnight: Modica Day 7 (B, D) Leisurely guided walk around Modica. Free time for a snack lunch, and perhaps even a chocolate tasting.

Catania

Ms rowland, Swindon

Day 5 (B, L, D)

Castellammare del Golfo

Modica 20 km

1 Siracusa (Ortigia)

Words from your Tour Manager When I designed this tour, I wanted to give clients a truly authentic Sicilian experience. travelling off season, whilst the weather is still lovely, staying in places/areas that live year round with local inhabitants (not just tourists!). Having Sicily to ourselves - not having to fight off the crowds at the historical sites - but enjoying what is more like a private visit! Basing ourselves in areas of Sicily which are slightly more ‘off the beaten track’. And most importantly... hardly ever eating in hotels but experiencing Sicilian cuisine, life and culture in a fabulous myriad and variety of local trattorias! I love accompanying this tour - firstly because I am hugely passionate about this amazing island, but secondly to be given the opportunity to share my love of Sicily with others... please do join me!

Paul Stratton

OR call CALL Prestige PreStIGe Holidays HOLIDAyS on ON 01425 480 600 or

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Charming Puglia 8 dAY E s C o rt E d g ro u P to u r

the heel of italy’s ‘boot’, Puglia conjures words to mind such as authentic, undiscovered and even unpolished. however, Puglia is certainly starting to get noticed. A perfect combination of culture and historic sites.

Alberobello • Trani • Matera • Locorotondo • Ostuni • Valle D’Itria Polignano • Monopoli • Lecce Although still a largely unknown area of italy, Puglia is certainly on the up. it is one of the new chic and ‘off the beaten track’ destinations, and is growing in popularity fast, so this tour is an ideal way to see this stunning region before it becomes too prevalent on the tourist trail. Puglia has an excellent mixture of culture, history, climate, gastronomy, and a people known for their friendly nature and hospitality. immerse yourself in this captivating region of southern italy.

tour highlights

Visit a number of uNEsCo world heritage sites, including Matera and Alberobello, where you will experience staying in traditional accommodation of the region. we will also visit other surrounding highlights, like the seafront town of Monopoli and the Baroque treasures of lecce, including several hidden gems of roman remains. You will get a chance to sample some fantastic culinary delights in local trattorie and see first-hand local focaccia and mozzarella making. this tour will show you the real unspoilt and authentic italy, and reveal one of its best kept secrets!

• • • • • •

• Visit a lesser known region of italy and feel its true authentic flavour • stay in traditional accommodation in the uNEsCo town of Alberobello • Experience customary bread and mozarella making in delightful settings • Visit the uNEsCo town of Matera, famous for the cave dwellings of the sassi • Full day to lecce, the ‘Florence of the south’

whAt’s iNCludEd return British Airways flights from london gatwick to Bari 7 nights in charming accommodation daily breakfast, three lunches and five evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y FAc t S Departure dates: 22 Apr & 29 Oct 2019 Price per person: £1,595 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Bari Inbound: Bari to London Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U r i T i N E r A ry Day 1 (L, D)

Day 5 (B, D)

Arrival. Stop for an afternoon exploration of the fishing town of Trani, known as a crucial disembarkation port for the Crusades to the Holy Land. This harbourside setting hosts a seafood lunch before transferring to Alberobello to check-in to traditional accommodation.

depart to Locorotondo and the hilltop ‘white town’ of Ostuni in the Valle d’itria. Enjoy a short guided walk around its charming whitewashed historic centre whilst admiring the far-reaching views across to the sea. En route back to Alberobello, stop at a medieval masseria to sample some of the famous Puglian olive oil.

Overnight: Alberobello

Day 2 (B, L, D) Morning guided walk of the UNESCO town of Alberobello before transferring to the nearby and beautiful ‘Masseria Aglio-Piccolo’. This countryside location affords an opportunity to witness how local mozzarella and focaccia is produced, followed by a light lunch in the masseria itself.

Day 6 (B, L) Short drive to Polignano, a pretty Puglian village built on a promontory entirely surrounded by sea. Enjoy time exploring before continuing to Monopoli with its interesting churches, castle and harbourside.

Overnight: Alberobello

Day 3 (B)

Day 7 (B, D)

Free day at leisure for a chance to explore, discover, or simply sit and watch the world go by.

depart to the baroque treasure that is Lecce, known as the ‘Florence of the South’. Guided walk around this beautiful city with its vibrant historic centre teeming with street cafes and shops. The main sights include the basilica di Santa Croce and the breath-taking Piazza duomo, as well as the many hidden roman remains. The afternoon is at leisure.

Overnight: Alberobello Day 4 (B, D) Today offers a full day excursion to the stunning UNESCO town of Matera, used for the filming of Passion of the Christ and Ben Hur, amongst many other stories of the silver screen. The town boasts some captivating churches; however, the real highlight is the cave dwellings of the Sassi quarter where the local inhabitants lived and worked for their entire lives.

20 km

Overnight: Alberobello Day 8 (B) departure.

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Trani

bari Polignano Alberobello 7 Monopoli Ostuni Locorotondo Valle d’itria Matera Lecce

Overnight: Alberobello

Words from your Tour Manager

C L i E N T F E E d b AC k “Our tour leader, Sharon kivity, was excellent – helpful, pleasant and knowledgeable and it was a great experience to stay in a trullo.” Mr and Mrs clarke, Guildford “This was a holiday to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. We have visited many areas of italy over the years and this was one of the best holidays we have had. The tour totally exceeded our expectations.” Mr and Mrs Hunton, thirsk

P U G L I A

I am fascinated by Puglia’s history, which is inextricably linked with successive waves of invaders. they came because of Puglia’s strategic position and its remarkably fertile soil; indeed, for the romans, Puglia was the bread basket of its empire. this well paced tour is the perfect opportunity to explore Puglia’s rich heritage, its beautiful towns and villages and picturesque countryside. We also eat our way round the region, with some fabulous meals using local produce and washed down with good Puglian vino! Puglia was until recently a relatively unknown part of Italy but is fast becoming a fashionable destination, so this is the ideal time to explore it before it gets too well known. People here are remarkably welcoming and friendly, and for those with long memories and previous good experience of Italy, this region is still a gem of authenticity. Our lovely base is at Alberobello, and you will find within a day that people recognise and greet you as you stroll though the charming town. this tour is one of my all time favourites, and I am confident it will become one of yours too!

Sharon Kivity Or call CALL Prestige PreStIGe Holidays HOLIDAyS on On 01425 480 600 or

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CULTUR

Umbria: romans to renaissance 8 DAY E S C O RT E D G RO U P TO U R W I T H D R E I R E A N N M A R S H A L L

There are few regions in Italy more beautiful than Umbria, and few grapes as important as San Giovese. A world where Roman remains are interspersed among Renaissance gems.

Spello • Gubbio • Montefalco • Bevagna • Assisi Torgiano • Perugia • Orvieto • Spoleto A chance to explore the history, art, architecture and cuisine of this lesser known area of Italy. Umbria is a hidden collection of small and picturesque medieval towns. With our expert academic guide Dr Eireann Marshall, explore this corner of Italy from its Roman past to the stunning churches that adorn every one of these intriguing towns. See incredible frescos at Cappella Baglioni, followed by a stroll through the bones of Gubbio’s Roman theatre. Visit the picturesque towns of Bevagna to admire Romanesque churches, and marvel at the architectural genius of Pozzo di San Patrizio. It is not all history, as you are also accompanied by a qualified sommelier who will indulge your tastes in viticulture at several different vineyards, including the wine of the famous family Montioni. What could be more desirable than culture and cuisine in what is often called ‘The Green Heart’ of Italy? Umbria really is crying out to be explored.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • • • • •

Make the gorgeous historical town of Spello your home for seven nights Appreciate the stunning artwork of the frescos of Cappella Baglioni Explore the walled capital Perugia, with a plethora of medieval gems Sample delectable wines from three of the most famous families in the region Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Dr Eireann Marshall

WHAT’S INCLUDED • • • • • •

Return British Airways flights from London Heathrow to Rome 7 nights’ accommodation in a good standard hotel Daily breakfast, three lunches and five evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport with English-speaking guides Services of a Prestige Holidays Tour Manager

FOR more MORE details DETAILS visit VISIT www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For

k e y FAc t S Departure dates: 23 Apr 2019 Price per person: £1,895 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Rome Inbound: Rome to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I n E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 7 (B, D)

Arrival. Transfer to Spello for check-in. After a chance to relax, take an exploratory walk around Spello.

Morning in spectacular Orvieto. Visit the Duomo and discover Signorelli’s famous frescoes, as well as seeing the incredible Pozzo di San Patrizio. This afternoon, appreciate the wines at the estate of Decugagno dei Barbi.

Overnight: Spello Day 2 (B, L D) Morning tour of Spello, including the Chiesa di Andrea and the Capella Baglioni. In Gubbio, visit the Roman theatre. Walk up to the Piazza Grande, admiring the Palazzo dei Consoli, before entering the museum to see the unique Iguvine Tablets. Overnight: Spello Day 3 (B, L D) After a morning visit to the Church of St Francis in Montefalco, meander to the picturesque vineyard of the Montioni family for a tour of the olive grove and vineyard, followed by a light lunch and wine tasting. Continue to the historic town of Bevagna to explore the Romanesque churches of San Michele and San Silvestre. Overnight: Spello Day 4 (B) Visit Assisi, strolling through the city to see Roman and Romanesque buildings and exploring the churches of Santa Chiara and San Francesco. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight: Spello

Day 8 (B) Departure.

I TA LY

Gubbio

“For the sake of a weathered gray city set high on a hill, To the northward I go.

Perugia Torgiano Bevagna

Where Umbria’s valley lies mile upon emerald mile, Outspread like a chart.

Orvieto

Assisi

7 Spello

Montefalco Spoleto

The wind in her steep, narrow streets is eternally chill, From the neighbouring snow. Rome

But linger who will in the lure of a southerly smile, Here is my heart.” Amelia Josephine Burr

20km

On Umbrian Wine

Day 5 (B, L D) Depart to Spoleto, taking in the Roman sights of the House of Vespaia Polla, the Roman theatre and the Duomo. Continue to Torgiano to sample world famous wines at the vineyards of the Lungarotti family. Overnight: Spello Day 6 (B) Visit Perugia, the capital of Umbria. Walk through the evocative Rocca Paolina, a veritable medieval Pompeii. Admire the Palazzo dei Priori and the Fontana Maggiore, before visiting the Renaissance Collegio del Cambio. This afternoon, explore the Etruscan, Roman and Renaissance gems of the city. Overnight: Spello

Overnight: Spello

So often overlooked and passed by in favour of neighbouring tuscany, both in terms of olives and wine grapes, Umbria makes highly drinkable whites and some ancient and highly distinctive, often sensational reds. trebbiano (known locally as Procanico) and grechetto are Umbria’s two most common white varieties, but others include canaiolo Bianca and Malvasia Bianca whilst Spoletino, an ancient Umbrian grape, related to trebbiano, is also worth seeking out. Orvieto DOc was for a while the best-known Umbrian wine, and it was the etruscans who first introduced viticulture here. From the middle ages until the 1950s, Orvieto was sought-after for a botrytized sweet wine, with the harvested grapes undergoing noble rot in tufa stone grottoes. nowadays you have wonderful dry whites from careful producers as well as some rather forgettable mass-produced table wine. In a small town just four miles southeast of Perugia there is the DOc of torgiano, with high quality reds and whites. In 1990 a tiny area was given DOcg status for the torgiano Rosso Riserva. Made from Sangiovese and canaiolo grapes with a minimum of three years ageing before release, this is a red wine to savour and keep, and almost synonymous with the name of the winemaker, Lungarotti, who put the DOcg on the map. Sagrantino is an indigenous red grape variety unique to the Montefalco region of south central Umbria. One of the most tannic grape varieties, it is robust, thick-skinned and ripens late and can make complex, exceptional wines. Long forgotten, though known of centuries before, it languished in obscurity before a chance discovery in a churchyard led to a revival due to the efforts of winemaker Marco caprai with the University of Milan in the 1980s and is now made by a handful of wineries. It goes perfectly with the local roast meat, game, truffle and cheeses. A lighter - and far more common, cheaper and often excellent - red is Rosso di Montefalco DOc, a blend of Sangiovese and Sagrantino, though it may include up to 15 percent of other red varieties such as Montepulciano, Merlot or cabernet Sauvignon.

Leonie Loudon

OR call CALL Prestige PReStIge Holidays HOLIDAyS on On 01425 480 600 or

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Rome of the CaesaRs 8 DaY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r w i t h D r N E i l Fau l k N E r

Come face-to-face with the all-powerful Caesars and their subjects in this exploration of the ancient city of rome.

Palatine Hill • Circus Maximus • Colosseum • Hadrian’s Villa • Ara Pacis Mausoleum of Augustus • Baths of Caracalla • Roman Catacombs • Cerveteri • Ostia uncover the real history of ancient rome, from the time of the republic to the rule of the almighty Caesars. although founded as a small fishing village on the River Tiber, Rome grew in importance throughout the ancient world until it became the hub of western civilization and a shining light of cultural development.

tour highlights

this journey of discovery takes our guests from famous wonders such as rome’s ancient Forum and the imposing Colosseum, to lesser known hidden gems such as hadrian’s Villa, and a visit to the ruins of rome’s port at ostia. these sites have been carefully selected to paint a vivid scene of life under the Caesars, and an insight into the nature of these great characters.

what’s iNCluDED

• • • • •

• • • • • •

stroll through the ruins of the ancient Forum of rome Marvel at the unprecedented construction that is the Colosseum Explore the ‘city of the dead’ at Cerveteri Enjoy the best italian cuisine that rome has to offer Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Dr Neil Faulkner

return British airways flights from london heathrow to rome 7 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, six lunches and five evening meals all excursions and entrance fees all overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

Dr Neil Faulkner is a research Fellow at Bristol university, the author of many works of historical literature, and makes regular appearances on television programmes. a specialist in roman history, there is no better accompanying academic guide to bring alive the vibrant rome of the Caesars.

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MorE details DEtails visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 14 May 2019 Price per person: £2,195 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Rome Inbound: Rome to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

To u R i T i n E R A Ry Day 1 (D) Arrival. Check-in at the hotel and take an orientation walk. Welcome drink and dinner.

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Rome Day 2 (B, L, D) Visit the Forum, packed with historic monuments, which was the centre of Rome’s political life for hundreds of years. Above it, on the Palatine Hill, were the palaces of the emperors. Just beyond lay the great edifices of public entertainment, the Circus Maximus and the Colosseum.

Visit a superbly well-preserved necropolis, where many of the tombs are decorated with vivid funerary frescoes. Returning to ostia, visit Portus, site of the monumental new harbour complex developed in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. Overnight: Ostia Day 8 (B, L)

Overnight: Rome

Explore the extensive remains of ostia, the port of Rome, situated at the mouth of the Tiber. See a complete ancient city, as extensive and wellpreserved as Pompeii.

Day 3 (B, L)

Departure.

Museum visit including one of the most important collections of ancient art in Rome. Then, descending the depths beneath the Church of San Clemente, view a Roman warehouse and temple to Mithras at ancient street level. Overnight: Rome Day 4 (B, L) Visit two spectacular luxury residences in the countryside near Rome. Hadrian’s Villa at Tivoli is a vast complex of buildings set in parkland. The Renaissance palace and gardens of the Villa d’Este - inspired by ancient Roman models - helps visualise the former grandeur of these retreats of the Roman elite. Overnight: Rome Day 5 (B, D) Visit the Pantheon, an architectural masterpiece possibly designed by the Emperor Hadrian himself, the Ara Pacis, one of the greatest artworks of the Augustan Age, the Mausoleum of Augustus, where the first emperor was buried, and the Palazzo Altemps, a Renaissance palace with one of the finest ancient sculpture collections in the city. Overnight: Rome

50km

I TA LY

- augustus, Roman emperor

Cerveteri

“Who on Earth is so careless or lazy that he would not wish to learn how and under what form of government almost all of the inhabited world was conquered and became subject to the rule of Rome in less than 53 years.”

Tivoli

5 Rome 2 ostia

- Polybius, Histories 1.1.5

Words from your Guide Lecturer

Day 6 (B, L, D) Final day in Rome, encompassing some of the monuments of the High and Late Empire, giving us a chance to reflect on the height, the decline, and the fall of Rome. Visit Trajan’s Markets and the Walls of Aurelian. Conclude with a visit to one of the many catacombs beyond the city walls. Overnight: Ostia

“i found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.”

the city of Rome was the heart of the greatest empire of antiquity. Its population reached a million in the 1st century aD, and wealth flooded in from an empire that extended from Britain to Syria, from the Danube to the Sahara. this wealth was invested in monumental architecture, the luxury living of the rich, and the ‘bread and circuses’ of the city mob. Dr neil Faulkner FSa, a Roman period specialist and author of Rome: empire of the eagles, will use the archaeological sites in and around Rome to provide a comprehensive introduction to the history and character of the city, the empire, and Roman civilisation as a whole. as well as visiting all the classic archaeological sites in the city itself - the Forum, the Palatine Hill, the colosseum, trajan’s Markets, the Pantheon, the Baths of caracalla, and many more - we will also visit three major sites outside the city. at cerveteri we will learn about the etruscan roots of Roman culture. at Ostia we will explore the port city at the mouth of the tiber that was essential to Rome’s infrastructure. and at tivoli we will discover the emperor Hadrian’s luxury palace complex. Finally, but not least, we will visit some of the finest collections of Roman art in the world - collections that will take us deep into the mindset of the ancient Roman elite.

Dr Neil Faulkner oR call CALL Prestige PReStIge Holidays HOLIDayS on On 01425 480 600 or

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In the Shadow of VeSuVIuS 8 DAY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r w i t h D i A N A B l u M B E r g

Experience life, both past and present, in the shadow of Vesuvius. Explore the remains of ancient cities and towns, and discover the impact of the volcano on the lives of Neapolitans today.

Naples • Cumae • Baiae • Pompeii • Herculaneum Pozzuoli • Oplontis • Ischia Few archaeological sites have captured the imagination quite like Pompeii. the vast ruins have captivated both serious history buffs and casual holidaymakers alike, attracting 2.5 million visitors annually. it is easy to become lost in this snapshot of roman life, which really only scrapes the surface of the archaeological remains in the shadow of Vesuvius.

tour highlights

Accompanied by guide lecturer Diana Blumberg, this eight-day tour provides you the opportunity to uncover the other sites in Campania, including herculaneum, a more intimate example of a roman town destroyed in the eruption of AD 79, and the sumptuous roman villa, oplontis.

whAt’s iNCluDED

Based in Naples for the duration, experience life in one of the oldest continuously inhabited urban areas in the world, exploring the most significant archaeological sites in the region, and even taking a ferry to the island of ischia. Naples’ historic centre is a designated uNEsCo world heritage site, and here is the opportunity to delve into its long history, visiting the National Archaeological Museum and even exploring the notorious catacombs.

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• • • • •

• • • • • •

Cross to the island of ischia Full day exploring the extensive remains of Pompeii Visit to the National Archaeological Museum Visits to both greek and roman excavations in the Bay of Naples Exclusive highlights from guide lecturer Diana Blumberg

return flights from london gatwick to Naples 7 nights’ accommodation in a good standard hotel Daily breakfast, five lunches and three evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 6 May 2019 Price per person: £1,999 Single supplement: £400 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Naples Inbound: Rome to Naples to Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO u R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 6 (B, L)

Arrival. Transfer to the hotel for a welcome drink. Time at leisure to explore the bustling city of Naples before dinner.

Depart to Pozzuoli to visit its amphitheatre, macellum, and the Rione Terra excavations (the oldest part of Pozzuoli). The apostle Paul stayed here for seven days on his journey to Rome, and the city is known for Caligula’s order to construct a floating bridge of trading vessels from here to Baiae, across which he proceeded to ride his horse! Return to Naples for the afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Naples Day 2 (B, L) Depart to Cumae, the first Greek colony on mainland Italy, founded in the 8th century BC. The city was peaceful under Roman rule until the end of the Roman Empire in the west, when it was repeatedly attacked by the Goths. After lunch, continue to the remains of Baiae, notorious for its wealthy residents’ hedonistic lifestyles and rife with corruption and scandal. Today concludes with a visit to the Aragonese Castle Museum. Overnight: Naples Day 3 (B, D) Spend a full day visiting the vast archaeological site of Pompeii, with free time for lunch at the site’s café. Pompeii was destroyed in the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79 and offers a snapshot of Roman life. The site wasn’t rediscovered until the 16th century and its preservation is remarkable due to its lack of air and moisture. Overnight: Naples Day 4 (B, L) Visit the best sites Naples has to offer, including its underground excavations. The Catacombs of San Gennaro are paleo-Christian burial and worship sites lying under a region of Naples nicknamed the ‘Valley of the Dead’. The National Archaeological Museum houses some spectacular artefacts from Pompeii and other sites visited throughout the tour. Evening at leisure.

Overnight: Naples Day 7 (B, L, D) Take the ferry to Ischia to visit important Greek and Roman excavations under Santa Restituta Church, which has a modest exterior but a rather lovely interior. Enjoy a more relaxed afternoon with lunch and a wine tasting. This evening, return to Naples for a special farewell dinner. Overnight: Naples Day 8 (B)

I TA LY

Departure.

“In the darkness you could hear the crying of women, the wailing of infants, and the shouting of men. Some prayed for help. Others wished for death. But still more imagined that there were no Gods left, and that the universe was plunged into eternal darkness.”

Cumae

Ischia

Pozzuoli Baiae

7 Naples Herculaneum Oplontis Pompeii

Pliny the younger

Overnight: Naples Day 5 (B, L)

5km

This morning, transfer to Herculaneum, a small yet astonishingly well preserved town with surviving organic material from Roman times - including wood. After lunch, continue to Oplontis, an ancient Roman site best known for its sumptuous villa. Both sites provide a more intimate understanding of the destructive eruption of Vesuvius. Overnight: Naples

Words from your Tour Manager I’m delighted to accompany Diana on this exploration of the most significant archaeological sites in the Bay of Naples. I first visited Pompeii as a young child and it was the spark of a long-term relationship with archaeology and the Romans. What a brilliant snapshot of life 2,000 years ago. It is, however, the lesser known Herculaneum which really excited me. Unlike Pompeii, the site’s closer proximity to Vesuvius means that organic materials such as wood and even skeletal remains have survived. I have subsequently visited both cities again, and I can honestly say that they are places I could happily lose myself in for hours on end, imagining the townscapes of ancient urban areas. Having excavated at Pompeii for 11 seasons, Diana is the perfect person to put these sites into the context of their time and explain their significance in the archaeological record. the opportunity to explore the bustling city of Naples and cross to Ischia for a wine tasting makes this a unique tour encompassing the best of the Gulf of Naples. We look forward to welcoming you on the tour and sharing our passion with you.

Ellie Spawton OR call CAll Prestige PReStIGe Holidays HOLIDayS on ON 01425 480 600 or

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Italy of the etruscans 8 DaY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r w i t h D i a n a B l u M B E r g

Venture through the ancient lands of Etruria, uncovering the history and culture of the Etruscan people who inhabited italy before the romans and gave tuscany its name.

Orvieto • Chiusi • Sarteano • Chianciano Terme • Vulci Tarquinia • Rome • Veii thoughts of italian ancient history are often synonymous with the romans, their power stretching across the Mediterranean for an extraordinary length of time. their monumental structures still impose over towns and cities, leaving a legacy few civilisations can compete with. But what about italy before rome? the Etruscans inhabited Etruria, a region roughly corresponding to modern tuscany, western umbria and northern lazio. they had a system of writing, their own religion, and their own culture and art-influences of which can be seen in the culture of ancient rome itself, which conquered Etruria in the 3rd century BC.

tour highlights • • • • •

Explore the archaeology of italy before rome spend four nights in orvieto, a major centre of Etruscan civilisation uncover the extensive Etruscan necropolis in Veii guided tours of rome’s Forum and Colosseum Exclusive highlights from guide lecturer Diana Blumberg

what’s inCluDED • • • • • •

return flights from london heathrow to rome 7 nights, accommodation in a good standard hotel Daily breakfast, four lunches and five evening meals all excursions and entrance fees all overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

often overlooked in studies of ancient history, this tour will unfold the mysteries of the intriguing Etruscan civilisation. guide lecturer Diana Blumberg will bring the story of the Etruscans to life, exploring stunning tombs and necropoleis, uncovering Etruscan foundations, and touching upon the relationship and conflict between Etruria and Rome.

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MorE details DEtails visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 21 Oct 2019 Price per person: £1,999 Single supplement: £350 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Rome Inbound: Rome to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R i T i N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 6 (B, L)

Arrival. Transfer to Orvieto (approx. 1h30), an ancient city populated since the Etruscan times and annexed by Rome in the 3rd century. Enjoy a welcome drink before a short orientation tour, and the afternoon at leisure to explore this dramatic cityscape.

Morning visit to Rome’s main sites, the Forum and Colosseum, to walk in awe amongst the monumental remains still standing after over 2,000 years. After lunch, explore the National Etruscan Museum before the afternoon at leisure to stroll through Rome’s streets; around every corner there is something to catch your attention.

Overnight: Orvieto Day 2 (B, D) Full day in Orvieto. Visit the Crocifisso del Tufo Necropolis, which dates to the 6th century BC and possesses a regular street grid reflecting that of living cities. The Belvedere temple podium can still be found here. Orvieto’s National Archaeological Museum - also a Renaissance cathedral - exhibits some of the finest Etruscan artefacts from recent excavations. Free time for lunch. Dinner in a local restaurant.

Overnight: Rome Day 7 (B, L, D) Visit Veii to see its city and temple remains, followed by Ceveteri’s necropolis. The annexation of Veii by the Romans marked the first in a series of attacks against Etruria, ultimately leading to its downfall. Return to Rome for a special farewell dinner. Overnight: Rome

Overnight: Orvieto

Day 8 (B)

Day 3 (B, L)

Departure.

Today, visit three towns settled in the times of the Etruscans: Chiusi, Sarteano and Chianciano Terme. Chiusi was one of the more powerful Etruscan cities before it came under Rome’s influence in the 3rd century; the labyrinth of Porsenna is a fascinating series of tunnels under the town used by both Etruscans and Romans for drainage. Sarteano has some significant Etruscan tombs, and Chianciano Terme has been renowned for its healing baths since Etruscan times. Overnight: Orvieto Day 4 (B, D) Full day visit to Vulci. The Vulci have long been acknowledged as master sculptors in bronze, and excavations have uncovered thousands of tombs. Explore the city’s Etruscan and Roman remains, including the tombs, Roman house and picturesque bridge (with Etruscan foundations), the Etruscan river quay, and a mithraeum. The mithraeum is a stunningly beautiful area; bask in the atmosphere here with some free time. Overnight: Orvieto Day 5 (B, L, D) En route to Rome, stop at Tarquinia to see its tombs and museum, and enjoy lunch. Tarquinia is known chiefly for its ancient Etruscan tombs and widespread necropoleis, for which it has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Overnight: Rome

Chiusi I TA LY

4 Orvieto Chianciano Terme Vulci

“But i want to give you a warning, Tullus. you know, you especially who are nearer to them, the greatness of the Etruscan State, which hems us both in; their immense strength by land, still more by sea.” Livy

Sarteano

Tarquinia

3 Rome 20km

Words from your Tour Manager to this day, the etruscans remain a mysterious people. their origins have been a matter of debate since antiquity, their language has never properly been deciphered, and some even argue that it was, in fact, they who laid the foundations of ancient Roman civilisation. Indeed, the etruscan kings are firmly included in Rome’s foundation myths, some even ruling over Rome itself. Diana, ever warm and engaging, has a personal interest in the etruscans, and this tour of tuscany incorporates them as its main focus, visiting some of the longest-inhabited cities and uncovering their etruscan origins and foundations. a highlight is sure to be Veii, a settlement north of Rome whose destruction marks the start of the Roman annexation of the etruscan lands. By the start of the 1st century Bc, etruria had been absorbed by Rome. exploration of the etruscans would be incomplete without looking too at Rome itself; Diana used to live in this city and will take us to the main sights, putting the Romans into the context of the etruscans. It’s always exciting to visit places with a different perspective, and Diana will reveal the secrets of tuscany on this unforgettable journey.

Ellie Spawton OR call CAll Prestige PReStIge Holidays HOLIDayS on On 01425 480 600 or

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Historical sicily 1 1 DaY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r W i t h D r E i r E a N N M a r s h a l l

Join Dr Eireann Marshall as she uncovers sicily’s long and intriguing history on a comprehensive tour perfect for new and seasoned visitors.

Palermo • Cefalu • Segesta • Monreale • Agrigento Taormina • Siracusa • Catania With the success of our flagship bi-annual ‘Wonders of Sicily’ tour, 2019 sees us introducing a new perspective on this beautiful island - a fantastic addition to our italian portfolio. accompanied by Dr Eireann Marshall, visit the most extraordinary historical sites sicily has to offer - from the Normano-arabic architecture of Cefalu and Palermo, and the Baroque treasures of the south-east, to the extensive ancient greek remains in the Valley of the temples and the Christian catacombs in siracusa. Dining in local trattorie allows you to sample sicily’s truly authentic wine and cuisine, and a wine tasting in the shadow of Mount Etna gives your tour Manager, sommelier leonie loudon the opportunity to share her expertise.

tour highlights • • • • •

Enjoy a wine tasting in the shadow of Mount Etna Visit Monreale’s cathedral, a uNEsCo World heritage site spend a full day uncovering the history of selinus Delve into the Christian catacombs of san giovanni Exclusive highlights from guide lecturer Dr Eireann Marshall

What’s iNCluDED • • • • • •

return flights from london gatwick to sicily 10 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, five lunches and four evening meals all excursions and entrance fees all overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

Whether this is your first excursion to Sicily or you’re a seasoned visitor, our historical sicily tour is sure to be an informative, engaging experience, which will provide you with a more in-depth knowledge of the island’s unique past.

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MorE details DEtails visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y FaC t S Departure dates: 3 Sep 2019 Price per person: £2,549 Single supplement: £475 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Palermo Inbound: Catania to London Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R i T i N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 9 (B, L)

Arrival. Transfer to the hotel for a welcome drink. Time at leisure before dinner.

Enjoy the morning at leisure before a wine tasting and lunch this afternoon in the shadow of Mount Etna.

Overnight: Palermo

Overnight: Taormina

Day 2 (B, D) Travel to the picturesque town of Cefalu and visit the Normano-Arabic cathedral and cloister. Time at leisure for lunch before returning to Palermo to visit the Normano-Arabic churches of La Martorana and San Cataldo, as well as the Palatine Chapel.

Day 10 (B, D) Morning visit to Catania, which has been shaped by centuries of volcanic eruptions. Visit the cathedral, Roman theatre and baths before returning to Taormina for a special farewell dinner.

Overnight: Palermo

Overnight: Taormina

Day 3 (B, L)

Day 11 (B)

Visit Segesta for its extraordinary temple and theatre in the morning. Continue to Monreale for lunch and to visit its Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Departure.

Day 4 (B, L) Transfer to Agrigento to spend a day exploring Selinunte. Stop at the Cava di Cusa to visit the unique quarries which provided the stone for the temples. Lunch on the beachfront before returning to explore the temples themselves. Overnight: Agrigento Day 5 (B, L) Full day in Agrigento, starting with the museum in the morning and finishing with the Valley of the Temples this afternoon. Overnight: Agrigento Day 6 (B, D) En route to Taormina, stop to visit the Villa Romana del Casale and an independent lunch. Evening arrival in Taormina, followed by dinner. Overnight: Taormina Day 7 (B) Full day in Taormina. This morning, visit the famous theatre with its views of Etna. Afternoon at leisure. Day 8 (B, L) Depart to Siracusa. Explore the Paolo Orsi archaeological museum and neighbouring Christian catacombs of San Giovanni. This afternoon, visit the famous Greek theatre. Overnight: Taormina

Segesta

Cefalu

Taormina

Monreale

5 Catania

2 Agrigento Siracusa 20 km

On Sicilian Wine

Overnight: Palermo

Overnight: Taormina

Palermo

along with the wines of Campania, where I lived for six years, Sicily and Sicilian wines are close to my heart. I first went to Sicily to update a guidebook and as I travelled around I became enamoured with all the exciting new grape varieties and flavours that matched so perfectly with the local cuisine and gave such a strong sense of place. My first taste of a white wine called Bianco d’alcamo (north western Sicily) stays with me. Made largely from the indigenous Catarratto grape, I first savoured it with local seafood in a tiny place called Scopello within the natural reserve dello Zingaro. the sheer beauty of the place, now a haven for nature though used for centuries to corral tuna around ancient stone tonnara, and a curve of coast, which Sicilian people marched to save from the mafia and mass construction, where you can walk and swim and do the dolce far niente is, for me, Sicily at its simple best. all around the coast and inland you discover new dishes, new grapes, new influences. When I think of my favourite food and wine memories, the sea is never far away. another is eating wonderfully sweet and sour caponata (a cold vegetable dish combining aubergine, tomato, onion, celery, olives and capers) on a beach with lightly-chilled nero d’avola (yes, not always a crime to cool red wine) watching a thunderstorm loom overhead on the headland crowned by one of the beautiful Greek temples at Selinunte. Sicilians are naturally proud of their unique cultural history, a land which has enjoyed and endured the influences of so many and so varying peoples, a legacy reflected in their character, customs, pioneering ways, their art and architecture, language and obviously, food and drink. etna, europe’s biggest active volcano, plays a key role on the island, but until relatively recently it was not renowned for its wine. It was, however, Sicily’s first DOC appellation and the growing areas on the north, east and south slopes have been regulated since 1968. Locals fought hard to save the area from the wine lake it had fallen into and restore the true quality and characteristics of local varieties: Carricante and Catarratto for the whites and nerello Mascalese and nerello Capuccio for the reds. now seriously sought after, prestigious winemakers from further afield vie to buy plots of land and it is often described as a new Burgundy. However, it’s the fortified wine Marsala we most often associate with Sicily, which owes its fame to a rather eccentric english trader and antiquarian called John Woodhouse and is made largely from another native variety, Grillo. then in terms of sweet wines, Sicily raises the stakes high: to match its army of desserts, cakes and sweetmeats, highlights are beautifully-made Malvasia from Lipari in the aeolian Islands or Muscat d’alessandria, known as zibibbo locally, from the dark vulcanic island of Pantelleria.

Leonie Loudon

OR call CALL Prestige PreStIGe Holidays HOLIDayS on On 01425 480 600 or

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A Summer of ItAlIAn operA A S e L e c T I o n o F e S c o RT e d G Ro u P To u R S W I T h A d R I A n M o u R b y

Join guide lecturer Adrian Mourby on an exploration of Italian opera this summer in our ever-expanding programme.

Lucca and the Puccini Festival • Parma and the Verdi Festival Pesaro and the Rossini Festival “Summer, Italian opera and proscecco are the three essential elements of a perfect mix. Whether it’s Rossini’s joyous festival in the seaside resort of Pesaro, the stirring music of Verdi in Parma or the divine Puccini Festival on the shores of his lakeside home in Torre del Lago, these three festivals offer the opportunity to discover three great opera composers within their own landscapes. There is also superb food along the way (something Rossini and Puccini would have greatly enjoyed) and performances that even the demanding Giuseppe Verdi would have enjoyed. Most of all there is a unique sense of authenticity when you hear Italian opera performed by Italian singers in places each composer loved.“

Adrian Mourby - Tour Manager

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FoR more MoRe details deTAILS visit VISIT www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For

puccInI operA feStIvAl E s c o rt E D G ro U P to U r

A five day tour based in charming Lucca, the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini. Explore lucca and the surrounding areas associated with the composer’s life and works. Enriched with dining in local trattorie and two Puccini operas performed in the stunning lake-side theatre at torre del lago.

toUr hiGhliGhts • • • • • •

k e y Fac t s Jul / aug 2019 Max group size: 20 Flight information: outbound: london to Pisa inbound: Pisa to london Regional departures may be available upon request.

centrally located 4* hotel in lucca First sector seats for two opera performances Pre-register your details with us so we can keep a scenic boat trip on Massaciuccoli lake with you up to date. opera performances will be buffet dinner confirmed on release of the programme. Walking tours of lucca with a local guide Evening concert in the church of san Giovanni Exclusive insights into the life and works of Puccini

verDI operA feStIvAl E s c o rt E D G ro U P to U r

Each october, the city of Parma is dedicated to the music of Giuseppe Verdi. Discover the delights of the landscapes and flavours that inspired the great maestro’s memorable compositions.

toUr hiGhliGhts • • • • • •

Four nights’ accommodation in Parma First category seats for four opera performances Backstage tour of teatro regio Visit to a Parmigiano-reggiano farm with tasting Pre opera buffet dinner at caffe del teatro comprehensive programme of guided tours

k e y Fac t s oct 2019 Max group size: 20 Flight information: outbound: london to Pisa inbound: Pisa to london Regional departures may be available upon request.

Pre-register your details with us so we can keep you up to date. opera performances will be confirmed on release of the programme.

roSSInI operA feStIvAl E s c o rt E D G ro U P to U r

august in Pesaro is the time of the rossini opera Festival, celebrating the works of Gioachino Rossini in his birthplace. View two magnificent operas and discover the seaside resort of Pesaro as well as the highlights of Urbino and the breath-taking Bologna.

toUr hiGhliGhts • • • • •

see two opera performances in first-sector seats Visit the hilltop town of Urbino, a UNEsco World heritage site tour Bologna’s iconic theatre Explore rossini’s Pesaro Exclusive insights from guide lecturer adrian Mourby

k e y Fac t s aug 2019 Max group size: 20 Flight information: outbound: london to Bologna inbound: Bologna to london Regional departures may be available upon request.

Pre-register your details with us so we can keep you up to date. opera performances will be confirmed on release of the programme.

or call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

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GrEEcE & cYPrus

When my grandfather was stationed in Greece in the latter stages of World War 2, he met a Greek lady called alexandra, whom he was later to bring to England and marry. Despite being only a quarter Greek, it has run in my veins since I was born. I was christened in the orthodox church and have been lucky enough to visit this country at least once for every year I’ve been around. I took my love of the country further by studying ancient History at university and visiting as many archaeological sites as I could find. The country is roughly 80% mountains, boasts over 6000 islands and is synonymous with the ‘wine-dark’ sea. The people enjoy life, food and dancing. They love to sit around the village square (the men shifting their worry-beads or comboloi) and talk about politics or events in the community. Yet, in general, they are also the most welcoming and hospitable people you could ever meet. My auntie always told me a story of the first time she went to Greece, sitting at a public table, ordering a coffee and an ashtray for her cigarette. an old man brought her both. The old man sat and watched her enjoy the world go by. However, when my auntie asked to pay the bill, he seemed perplexed. ‘The bill? but this is my house!?’. This story for me sums up the Greek character nicely. Where else in the world would you receive such unquestioned hospitality? Greece is a relatively new country. Forged from wars of independence with the Turks in the early 19th century, she suffered heavily under the yoke of Nazi Germany during World War 2 and more recently has been associated with financial crisis. Yet she endures. Whether taking in an oracle with the spectacular views at Delphi, admiring the building programme of Pericles on the acropolis, pondering very ancient cultures of the Minoans at Knossos or the Myceneanes in the Peloponnese, Greece is a place of wonder, whose civilizations helped shape the western world as we know it. There is nothing better after a morning visit to some dusty, forgotten archaeological ruins, than sitting in a family-run taverna by the sea, eating seafood, and sipping village wine with the promise of a swim later that day. My heart always yearns for Greece.

Alexander Oliver greek specialist

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Dramatic PeloPonnese 1 0 DAY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r W i t h D r C h r i s t i n A h At z i M i C h A E l - W h i t l E Y

An all-encompassing exploration of Ancient greek culture and history throughout the Peloponnese.

Cape Sounion • Athens • Delphi • Olympia • Mystras • Monemvasia Nafplio • Mycenae • Epidaurus • Corinth the Peloponnese is a rugged and dramatic land, where the rough mountains and the wine-dark seas are in constant juxtaposition. the ‘island of Pelops’ was the hub of early Mycenaean civilization, played home to the famous spartans, and also gave birth to the modern olympic games. the people are friendly and proud of their heritage and traditions; they always wish you to sample the best of their cuisine - washed down, of course, with the local village wine.

tour highlights

During the 10 days of this tour, we will explore the ancient history and mythology of the lands of Attica and the Peloponnese, presented in a wonderfully all-encompassing style. guide lecturer Dr Christina hatzimichael-Whitley will take you to greece’s most impressive archaeological sites, including panoramic views at Cape sounion, oracles at the sanctuary of Delphi, running on the track at olympia, and impressive Byzantium towns at Mystras and Monemvasia. With meals at the best restaurants and tavernas handpicked by our team, you are sure to go to sleep every night sated not just by culinary delights but also by the events of the day.

• • • • • •

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• • • •

Admire the imposing temples of the Athenian Acropolis search for an oracle at the sanctuary of Delphi stroll through the deserted streets of the Byzantium ghost town of Mystras take in a performance of one of the great playwrights of Ancient greece in the original and atmospheric setting of Epidaurus theatre • Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Dr Christina hatzimichael-Whitley

WhAt’s inCluDED return British Airways flights from london heathrow to Athens 9 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, four lunches and four evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details DEtAils visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y FAc t S Departure dates: 23 Jun 2019 Price per person: £2,079 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Athens. Inbound: Athens to London Heathow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO u R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 8 (B)

Arrival. Check in before reconvening for a drive along the southern Attica coast road to visit the spectacular Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.

Return to Epidaurus to explore the site that hosted last night’s spectacle. In Nafplio, climb the Palamidi Castle via 999 carved stone steps (or take a taxi!) and marvel at the inspiring views across the Argolic Gulf.

Overnight: Athens Day 2 (B) Visit the Acropolis to see the main sights, including the Parthenon. Stroll down to the Temple of Hephaestus and continue to Syntagma Square to witness all the pomp and ceremony involved in the changing of the guard. Overnight: Athens Day 3 (B, L) Visit the archaeological museum and ancient sanctuary of Delphi. The site itself occupies the south-western slope of Mt. Parnassus and commands stunning views across the ruins and the valley below. Overnight: Delphi

Overnight: Nafplio Day 9 (B, D) Visit the Ancient City of Corinth that played home to both Greek and Roman populations and is famous for being the focus of St. Paul’s pious instructions. After lunch, return to Athens for the afternoon at leisure. Overnight: Athens Day 10 (B) Departure. G R E E C E

Delphi

C l I E N T f E E D B AC K

Day 4 (B, L, D) Stopping en route to marvel at the Rio–Antirrio Bridge, spend all afternoon exploring the birth place of the Olympic Games. Overnight: Olypmia

“This is the second small group tour we have been on with Prestige. We have thoroughly enjoyed both holidays.”

PEloPonnEsE

Olympia

Mr and Mrs Atienza, Bury St Edmunds

Day 5 (B, L, D)

Corinth

Athens

Mycenae

Nafplio

Visit the beautiful and eerie abandoned town of Mystras, still populated until the 1960’s, and once a scholarly centre of the Byzantine Empire. Overnight: Monemvasia Day 6 (B) This morning, explore the living museum that is Monemvasia. Afternoon at leisure.

“Our Tour Manager, Alex Oliver was excellent, totally professional throughout the tour and a great fellow traveller. We all enjoyed his company”

Epidaurus

Mystras

Monemvasia

Mr and Mrs Khan, Richmond

Overnight: Monemvasia

20 km

Day 7 (B, L) Visit Mycenae to see the fabled home of King Agamemnon and the hub of ‘Greek’ culture from 1600 to 1100 BCE. Continue to Epidaurus for the arguable highlight of the tour, a guaranteed seat on the stone steps of the theatre to witness an ancient Greek production in an original setting. Overnight: Nafplio

Words from your Tour Manager My love of the Peloponnese started as a very young boy when I was taken on family holidays to greece to see relatives who lived in both Attica and the Peloponnese itself. For me, it is the absolute hub of the culture and mythology that invokes the best imagery that one associates with the Ancient greek world. It is this fantasy coupled with incredible natural scenery and mouth-watering cuisine that makes this location the best place to share with others. I created the itinerary for this tour with the desire to tell an allencompassing tale of the history of this land, its people and culture. the sites included are amongst the most impressive and most important to this narrative, and what could be more of a highlight than taking in an original theatrical production in the wonderful setting of epidaurus. I was lucky enough to have previously experienced this spectacle when I was 15 years old; it has stayed with me since, and I relish the opportunity to experience it again.

Alexander Oliver

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Land of aLexander & aristotLe 8 DAY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r W i t h D r C h r i s t i n A h At z i M i C h A E l - W h i t l E Y

retrace the story of Alexander the great’s rise to power and his dominance over all he surveyed through the enchanting greek lands of Macedonia.

Thessaloniki • Edessa • Mount Olympus • Stageira • Amphipolis Kavala • Philippi • Thassos Explore the land and people that shaped Alexander the great and his Macedonian Kingdom that eventually went on to conquer huge areas of the known world until his death in BC 323. Enjoy four nights in one of the best hotels thessaloniki has to offer, followed by three nights in a comfortable sea-view hotel in the charismatic town of Kavala. trace the footsteps of Alexander & Aristotle at sites such as Pella, Vergina, Dion, stagira, Amphipolis and Philippi, as well as many other hidden gems.

tour highlights

it is not all history as we take in the natural beauty this area of greece is famous for, including tumbling waterfalls at Edessa and majestic peaks in the foothills of Mount olympus. to top this off, indulge in a little bit of your own Macedonian symposium by sampling the best wines this region has to offer.

• • • • • •

guide lecturer Dr Christina hatzimichael-Whitley is a native of Kavala and will relish the opportunity to introduce you to her homeland, including pointing out hidden gems and, of course, the best restaurants and tavernas in town.

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• Explore the extensive archaeological site of the once Macedonian capital, Pella • Marvel at the royal tombs and archaeological finds of Vergina • Visit the archaeological park at Dion under the shadow of Mount olympus • Visit stagira, the birthplace of Aristotle • Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Dr Christina hatzimichael-Whitley

WhAt’s inCluDED return flights from london gatwick to thessaloniki 7 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, four lunches and three evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac T S Departure dates: 27 May 2019 Price per person: £1,895 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Thessaloniki. Inbound: Thessaloniki to London Gatwick. Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO u R i T i n E R A Ry Day 1 (D) Arrival. Transfer to the hotel and check in. Time for an independent lunch before a walking tour of Thessaloniki to see its main sights, including the White Tower, Alexander the Great’s statue, and the Archaeological Museum.

Day 6 (B, D)

Overnight: Thessaloniki

Morning visit to nearby Philippi, conquered and renamed by Alexander’s father in 356 BC, to explore its archaeological site and museum. The city is also famous for being the site of the battle where Mark Anthony and Octavian defeated Caesar’s assassins, Brutus and Longinus.

Day 2 (B, L)

Overnight: Kavala

Explore the extensive ruins of Pella, once the capital of Alexander’s empire. Continue up the hills to visit Edessa, the ‘city of waters’ and allegedly the first capital of Macedonia.

Day 7 (B, L) Transfer to Thassos, colonised by the Phoenicians and later the Greeks, both drawn by its wealth of gold and marble. Explore the ruins of the ancient agora before visiting the archaeological museum of Limenas.

Overnight: Thessaloniki Day 3 (B, L) Visit the Royal Palace sites at Vergina, famous for the tombs of Macedonian nobles, and the theatre where Alexander’s father was assassinated. This afternoon, visit the renowned Boutari winery and enjoy a tasting before continuing to ‘Aristotle’s School’ to explore its ruins.

This afternoon, continue to Aliki Beach for a farewell lunch, followed by a chance to visit the ancient marble quarries. Return to Kavala by ferry for time at leisure. Overnight: Kavala Day 8 (B) Departure.

Overnight: Thessaloniki Day 4 (B, D) Drive south towards Mount Olympus, the ‘home of the gods’, and explore the archaeological park of Dion. Take a short drive to the rugged mountain town of Litochorio for a short walking tour and an independent lunch. Overnight: Thessaloniki Day 5 (B, L) Early departure towards the land of the Thracians to visit Stageira, the birthplace of Aristotle, which boasts some beautiful sea views. This afternoon, venture to Amphipolis with special access to the impressive gymnasium.

“My son ask for thyself another kingdom, for that which i leave is too small for thee.”

20 km

Pella Edessa

- Philip II of Macedon

G R E E C E

Kavala

4 Thessaloniki

Vergina

Stageira Thassos

Mount Olympus /Litochoro

Overnight: Kavala

Words from your Guide Lecturer

“it is best to rise from life as from a banquet, neither thirsty nor drunken.” - aristotle

Greek Macedonia is a land brimming with contrasts. From Mount Olympus, the abode of the ancient gods which looms over the sanctuary of Zeus at Dion, down to the shores of the aegean Sea where maritime paths took ancient Greeks to faraway lands. What could be more exciting than exploring the ancient burial grounds of the kings of Macedonia at Vergina, or taking a wander amongst the bustling streets of cosmopolitan Thessaloniki (the second largest city in Greece)? I grew up in kavala and I am a native of Greek Macedonia. as always, I relish the opportunity to introduce guests to a land that I love. We can walk together the ancient streets of Philippi and investigate the fashionable town of kavala. We will visit the beautiful pine-clad island of Thasos, the first toehold of Greeks and poets in the territory of the Thracian. This is a chance to experience together the rich and complex heritage, culture and traditional cuisine of Macedonia, at the same time, we will unravel the threads of ancient, Byzantine, Ottoman and modern history.

Dr Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley

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An IonIAn odyssey 9 DAY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r W i t h D r C h r i s t i N A h At Z i M i C h A E l - W h i t l E Y

these islands have been mentioned in the annals of history as far back as the world of homer’s odyssey and thucydides’ account of the Peloponnesian War. it is impossible not to fall in love with these jewels of the rich blue ionian sea.

Corfu Town • Angelokastro • Necromanteion • Nikopolis • Lefkada • Ithaca Melissani • Cave Argostoli • Asos • Zakynthos A unique approach to the exploration of some of the main greek islands the ionian sea has to offer. A winding journey from Corfu, the ionian mainland, lefkada, ithaca, Kefalonia and Zakynthos. this island-hopping adventure sees us touch upon the trials of one of greece’s most celebrated heroes, odysseus, as well as many other historical themes. Expertly guided by Dr Christina hatzimichael-Whitley, we include a visit to the gates of the underworld at Necromanteion, an appreciation of Mycenaean tombs and of course a visit to modern ithaca, fabled to be the lost adventurer’s home. We also take in other impressive sites at the sprawling ancient ruins of Nikopolis (founded by octavian in 28BC) as well as Venetian fortresses on Corfu and Kefalonia. these jewels in the deep-blue ionian sea offer up mysterious caves, enticing beaches and spectacular views. of course there will be plenty of excellent cuisine and local wine to make this tour as enticing as the call of the sirens.

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tour highlights • An island-hopping adventure in the footsteps of the world’s most tragic hero, odysseus • Wine-tasting and lunch at a renowned Corfu vineyard • Explore the river styx and the gates of the underworld at Necromanteion • spend several days on the relaxing island of ithaca • Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Dr Christina hatzimichael-Whitley

WhAt’s iNCluDED • • • • • •

British Airways flights from london heathrow to greece 8 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, five lunches and five evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y FaC t S Departure dates: 6 Sep 2019 Price per person: £1,995 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Corfu Inbound: Zakynthos to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (B, D)

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Arrival. Explore Corfu Old Town. Full of Venetian elegance and complimented by British pomp, the old town is a warren of winding lanes, often bursting with fine aromas from restaurants and music from lively bars.

Visit the Venetian castle of Agios Georgios. After lunch, drive to the charming bay of Assos for some sightseeing and perhaps a stroll to the Venetian fortress. Finally, transfer to the worldfamous Myrtos beach.

Overnight: Corfu

Overnight: Kefalonia

Day 2 (B, L)

Day 8 (B, D)

Perched atop a particularly precipitous rock is the atmospheric Byzantine castle of Angelokastro, which played a pivotal role during the Great siege of Corfu. Transfer to a local renowned vineyard to indulge in tasting both olive oil and wine.

Famed in the Odyssey for being the origin for a large number of Penelope’s suitors, arrive at Zakynthos. Embark on an excursion to the famous blue caves, followed by a chance to swim at the stunning ‘shipwreck beach’.

Overnight: Corfu

Overnight: Zakynthos

Day 3 (B, L)

Day 9 (B)

Skirting the Ionian coastline, arrive on the shores of the fabled River Styx to visit the Necromanteion, where Odysseus descended into the Underworld. After lunch, explore the sprawling ruins of the ancient city of Nikopolis, before continuing to Lefkada.

Departure.

2 Corfu Town

G R E E C E

Overnight: Lefkada Day 4 (B, L, D) Spend the afternoon in exploration of the northern part of Ithaca. The village of Stavros boasts a statue of Odysseus; from here, discover the intriguing open site known as ‘The School of Homer’. Overnight: Ithaca Day 5 (B, D) Visit the small but intriguing Archaeological Collection of Stavros. We then set out for exploration of the southern peninsula of Ithaca, including a visit to the island’s capital of Vathy before returning to the hotel for a free afternoon.

Nikopolis

Asos Argostoli

the Odyssey

2 Ithaca

Angelokastro Necromanteion

2 Kefalonia

1 Zakynthos 20km

Overnight: Ithaca Day 6 (B, L) Kefalonia is steeped in history and is eternally synonymous with the story of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. Visit the ruins of ancient Sami before going subterranean with visits to the Melissani and Drogarati caves. After lunch in Poros, visit the Mycenaean tomb just outside the village. Overnight: Kefalonia

1 Lefkada

“Tell me about a complicated man. Muse, tell me how he wandered and was lost when he had wrecked the holy town of Troy, and where he went, and who he met, the pain he suffered in the storms at sea.”

Words from your Tour Manager I have been coming to the Ionian Islands since I was a young man on family holidays in the early 90s, including Corfu, kefalonia and Zakynthos. More recently, my fiancée and I achieved a long-term ambition of ours to holiday on the serene island of Ithaca. What a treat that was! For me, Ithaca encapsulates how I feel about the Ionian Islands as a whole. although areas of these islands are tourist traps, around every corner and not too far away is a sleepy, rustic and authentic part of greece. these islands have a deep history and have been mentioned in the annals of history as far back as the world of Homer’s Odyssey or in thucydides’ account of the Peloponnesian War. It is impossible not to fall in love with these jewels of the rich blue Ionian Sea. Independent in culture and cuisine, I relish the opportunity to introduce this area of greece to our guests here at Prestige Holidays. the tour has an underlying theme of Odysseus’ journey and yearning to return to his homeland, but also we touch upon many other historical subjects, culture, folklore, and indulge in sampling fine cuisine and wines. I have worked with Dr. Hatzimichael-Whitley many times before; she is a wonderful guide for everything ancient greek and an enchanting travel companion.

Alexander Oliver OR call CALL Prestige PreStIge Holidays HOLIDayS on On 01425 480 600 or

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Cultures of Crete 8 DAY E s c o rt E D g ro u P to u r

this fascinating tour will give you an insight into the island’s rich history, from the ancient Minoans to World War 2, and everything in between.

Heraklion • Knossos Palace • Islet of Spinalonga • Phaistos • Matala • Chania WWII ‘Abduction Route’ • Omalos • Samaria Gorge • Rethymno City Although crete is part of greece, it is very much a land separated from its country not just by the Aegean sea, but also by a character, style and history unique to the island itself. crete was the centre of Minoan civilisation, its history encompassing legends which have been told throughout the centuries, including the tale of King Minos, theseus and the Minotaur. the island’s strategic position between east and west has played a significant role in its long history, control passing from the romans to the saracens, the Byzantines to the Venetians, the ottomans and, after a short period of independence, the germans. As such, crete’s culture is an intriguing amalgamation reflecting its unique and varied past. Our ‘Cultures of Crete’ tour will provide you with a true flavour of the ‘real’ crete. An in-depth look at the island’s cultural riches, the tour includes visits to some of its most striking sites and areas, as well as more ‘off the beaten track’ experiences. We will dine in traditional local eateries, soaking up the relaxed atmosphere enjoyed by the locals, who are full of stories to tell. We will learn about crete’s history throughout its various stages, from Minoan sites to the role of the island in World War ii, and how they each left their mark on crete’s captivating culture.

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tour highlights • • • • •

Explore the island’s capital, heraklion Visit the impressive ancient Minoan site of Knossos Enjoy a boat trip to the islet of spinalonga Drive down the WWii ‘Abduction route’ Plateau of omalos with the view of samaria gorge

WhAt’s incluDED • • • • • •

return British Airways flights from london gatwick to heraklion 7 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, three lunches and seven evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 6 Oct 2019 Price per person: £1,649 Single supplement: £250 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Heraklion. Inbound: Heraklion to London Gatwick. Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO u R I T I N e R A Ry Day 1 (L, D)

Day 6 (B, D)

Arrival. Check into the hotel before a guided tour of the city, including a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

City tour of Chania, the first capital of Crete. Afterwards, visit the orange-growing region of western Crete and the northern hills of the White Mountains before reaching the high plateau of Omalos and the famous Samaria Gorge.

Overnight: Heraklion Day 2 (B, L, D) Visit Knossos Palace for a guided tour to uncover some of the stories behind this Mycenean marvel. Continue to the villages of Archanes to see the Byzantine churches and the famed Villa Ariadne. This evening, indulge in a wine and olive oil tasting.

Overnight: Chania

Overnight: Heraklion

Day 8 (B)

Day 3 (B, D)

Departure.

A morning venture along the north-east coast through the Gorge at St George with spectacular views of its monastery. Take the boat across to the Islet of Spinalonga to visit its 15th century Venetian fortress. Overnight: Heraklion Day 4 (B, D) Full day visiting some of the most prominent archaeological sites the island has to offer. Start with the Minoan settlements of Phaistos and Agia Triada before continuing to Gortyna. This afternoon, transfer to the wonderful beach at Matala with its breath-taking view of the Libyan Sea. Overnight: Heraklion Day 5 (B, L, D) Follow the WWII ‘Abduction Route’ over the old mountain road to Rethymnon. Lunch at Anogia and accompanied by stories of its destruction by the Nazis, including the execution of 500 villagers.

Day 7 (B, D) Visit the Renaissance city of Rethymno and the impressive Preveli Monastery. Overnight: Chania

C L I e N T F e e D B AC K “This was the first tour we have travelled with Prestige and I hope it wont be the last. We would certainly recommend them.” Mr and Mrs Walton, Buckingham

Thank you Prestige. you produced a good ‘product’. you even made sure the weather on Crete was warm, sunny and dry for the whole week. The Crete tour was well organised and our Tour Manager was efficient and delightful”

20 km

Chania Omalos

Rethymno

Samaria

Mrs Welford, Great Cheverell

Preveli Matala

Heraklion 4 Knossos Archanes

Spinalonga Agios Nikolaos

Overnight: Chania

The Abduction Route “There is a kind of flame in Crete let us call it “soul” - something more powerful than either life or death. There is pride, obstinacy, valor, and together with these something else inexpressible and imponderable, something which makes you rejoice that you are a human being, and at the same time tremble.” n. kazantzakis

after the nazi invasion, crete was divided into three sections controlled respectively by German, Italian and Bulgarian forces. It didn’t take long for cretan resistance to develop, surprisingly backed by the commander of the 51st Italian infantry division. a plan developed to abduct the German commanding officer, General Friedrich-Wilhelm Muller. By the time allied troops had arrived from egypt, their target had been replaced by the not so infamous Major General Heinrich kreipe, creating uncertainty as to whether the abduction should still take place. But, the plans were set. the allied forces would set up a dummy German road block not far from the General’s villa base, wearing German uniform. When kreipe attempted to pass, they attacked the car and abducted him. the journey was fraught with danger, passing 22 German checkpoints and including a cat and mouse chase before eventually boarding an SBS manned boat at rodakino Beach. the mission concluded by landing in egypt and delivering kreipe to the allies, where he was interrogated and sent to a Prisoner of War camp in canada. this fascinating story is recounted in our cultures of crete tour.

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Cyprus HigHligHts 9 DaY E s c o rt E D g ro u P to u r

Explore the past remains, the present cultures, the deep mythology and the enduring political discord of this divided island.

Kyrenia • Salamis • Famagusta • Nicosia • Lefkara • Choirokitia • Polis Chrysochous Drousia • Paphos • Kourion • Limassol • Troodos Mountains cyprus is a stunningly beautiful island, scattered with historical sites from its ancient past, and reminders of its modern challenges. this special nine-day journey provides you with the opportunity to experience the past and present of this divided island. the Past: Visit the extensive archaeological remains of ancient cities, and admire the architectural legacy of mountaintop castles and Byzantine churches. Discover the island’s myths and folklore, with photo stops at the birthplace of aphrodite, and an excursion into the troodos mountains. the Present: cross the line of this divided island, exploring the cultures and the people from both the greek south and the turkish north. Experience demonstrations of local crafting, from silversmithing and embroidery to halloumi production.

tour highlights • Experience both sides of Nicosia, the divided capital • Explore the extensive roman ruins at salamis and Pahpos • immerse yourself in the mountainous landscape of troodos, complete with a wine tasting • Demonstrations of traditional silversmithing, embroidery and halloumi production

what’s iNcluDED • • • • • •

return flights from london heathrow to larnaca 8 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, two lunches and seven evening meals all excursions and entrance fees all overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

Your immersive journey is, of course, completed by offering the most authentic cypriot cuisine, coffee, and wine.

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MorE details DEtails visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 17 Oct 2019 Price per person: £1,849 Single supplement: £250 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Larnaca. Inbound: Larnaca to London Heathrow. Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R i T i N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 6 (B, D)

Arrival. Transfer to Kyrenia for dinner and overnight. The city is under de facto control of the Turkish North, and is noted for its historic harbour and castle.

Visit the Tombs of the Kings, a magnificent rock-cut necropolis and UNESCO site, followed by the Paphos Archaeological Park, which boasts four elaborate Roman villas with superbly preserved mosaic floors.

Overnight: Kyrenia Day 2 (B, D) Explore the ancient Roman city of Salamis, before continuing to Famagusta, known for its Venetian walls. Visit Othello’s Tower and Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, originally the Cathedral of St Nicholas and the largest medieval building in Famagusta.

En route to Limassol, explore the Roman and Byzantine remains of Kourion. Overnight: Limassol Day 7 (B, D) Depart to the Troodos Mountains. Visit St Nicholas of the Roof, a Byzantine painted church and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Drive outside Varosha, Famagusta’s ‘ghost town’, an entire city quarter abandoned during the Turkish invasion and where entry is still forbidden. This afternoon, visit Bellapais Abbey and Kyrenia’s famous castle.

Continue to Omodos village for a walking tour and wine tasting.

Overnight: Kyrenia Day 3 (B, D)

Visit Limassol’s medieval castle and museum before a walking tour in the historical centre.

Spend a day in Nicosia, one of the few physically divided capital cities in the world.

Afternoon at leisure before a special farewell meal this evening.

Visit Selimiye Cami, once a Roman Catholic cathedral and now a mosque, and Buyuk Han, a 16th century Ottoman inn. Enjoy a Cyprus coffee before crossing Ledra’s checkpoint on foot.

Overnight: Limassol

This afternoon, continue to St John’s Cathedral, take a photo stop at Famagusta gate, and visit the Archaeological Museum.

Overnight: Limassol Day 8 (B, D)

Day 9 (B) Visit St Lazaros, a ninth-century church boasting a unique Baroque woodcarving iconostasis. Departure. Kyrenia

Overnight: Nicosia Polis Chrysochous

Day 4 (B, L) Transfer to Lefkara, known for its silver and lace. Visit the 14th century Church of the Holy Cross, followed by a demonstration of the town’s silversmithing and lace embroidery. Continue to Choirokitia to watch the production of halloumi cheese, followed by an authentic Cypriot brunch. En route to Polis Chrysochous, stop at Petra tou Romiou, the birthplace of Aphrodite. Overnight: Polis Chrysochous Day 5 (B, L, D) Visit the Marion-Arsinoe Archaeological Museum. Continue to the Baths of Aphrodite at Akamas Peninsula, followed by time at leisure in Latchi harbour. Transfer to Drousia and enjoy a rich brunch buffet. Rerturn to Polis Chrysochous for an afternoon at leisure. Overnight: Polis Chrysochous

2 Troodos

2 Nicosia 1

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Choirokitia Limassol

Larnaca

Paphos Kourion

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A Divided Island cyprus became a protectorate of the British in 1878, and a full colony in 1925, established as a key military base for its colonial routes. In 1950, the Orthodox church organised a referendum on British rule, in which 95.7 per cent of greek cypriots voted for enosis, union with greece. this was a referendum boycotted by the turkish minority, and ignored by the British themselves. In 1955, eOka, the national Organisation of cypriot Fighters, began a more violent campaign of resistance to British rule, aiming to achieve enosis. the British were taken by surprise and reacted late; they introduced various emergency measures including detention without trial, the death sentence for bearing arms, and extreme press censorship. the violence between eOka and the British came to an end in 1959, when agreement was reached for cyprus to become an independent republic. Britain would retain two sovereign base areas at akrotiri and Dhekelia. In the following decades, cyprus was plagued with violence between the greek and turkish communities. In 1974, a greek military coup aiming to unite cyprus with greece led to a turkish invasion and the island’s physical division as seen today.

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For more details visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

EasTErn EuroPE IncludInG THE BalTIcs, Balkans and THE c auc asus I love these regions due to their amazing diversity of scenery, sights and history. Wandering through the rose valleys of Bulgaria or enjoying a boat trip across lake ohrid in Macedonia, it is hard to believe this is just three hours from london. Traditional cultures remain a part of life here, with music, theatre and dance. little has changed in centuries. What started my love affair with this region? It has always seemed different from the rest of Europe. Places still exist which bear little resemblance to modern Europe, and I felt that this made these countries â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;specialâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. People are generally friendly, the food and wine good, and it is easier to get around than you might imagine! Tours offered by Prestige Holidays include many local features as well as the more famous sightseeing opportunities, and are brought to life by some of the best local guides I have ever worked with. on the European continent, albania, Macedonia, Montenegro, Bulgaria and romania tell the story of invasions, battles and survival amid a background of mountains, rivers, valleys and exquisite towns and cities. cruises in croatia allow you to get close to the most beautiful coastline in Europe. Into the caucasus and central asia, the sights of Georgia and armenia reveal monasteries, churches and lakes with armeniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fascinating story from early christianity through the ottoman and Persian invasions.

Julia Berg regional specialist

or call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

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DISCOVER CROATIA s M A l l s h i P C r u i s e s O N - B OA r D e X C l u s i V e C h A rt e r s

small ship, casual cruising has to be the perfect way to explore picturesque coastal towns and some of the many stunning islands along the coast of Croatia.

Omis • Brac • Split • Sibenik • Vis • Hvar Korcula • Mljet • Slano • Dubrovnik Croatia has become an increasingly popular destination and has something for everyone: an impressive collection of uNesCO World heritage sites, medieval walled cities, churches and palaces, pure natural beauty of National Parks, crystal clear seas and pristine beaches, all to discover on your voyage.

On three evenings, dinner is served instead of lunch. A true highlight of small ship cruising is no overnight sailing. this gives guests ample opportunity to explore the port of call independently and to dine in a local restaurant or Konoba (tavern) and fully enjoy the evening ambience in cafes or bars close by.

Due to popular demand, Prestige holidays is offering three exclusively chartered seven-night voyages on a choice of two ships for 2019. the Ms Providenca was completely refurbished in 2018 and now displays a stylish, modern interior. she will sail round-trip from Dubrovnik on a Dalmatian highlights itinerary. the Ms Agape rose, a modern, sleek motor cruiser will sail from split to Dubrovnik on the highlights of the south Adriatic itinerary. As well as a Cruise Manager and attentive crew, you will be accompanied by a Prestige holidays tour Manager who will be on hand to ensure your holiday is completely care-free.

We have included two guided excursions to enhance your experience on each voyage. Additional optional walking tours and excursions are available to purchase to give you an insight into the history of the ports visited, which include several uNesCO World heritage sites along the route.

With a maximum of just 38 or 40 guests, both cruisers are ideally suited to explore ‘off the beaten track’ ports of call that big cruise ships are unable to visit. On-board, there are no strict dress codes, so kick off your shoes, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery and gentle pace. the casual feel is continued with plentiful breakfasts and light lunches served buffet style.

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Cruise highlights • • • •

ships exclusively chartered by Prestige holidays relaxed and casual - no dinner jackets or cocktail dresses required small, intimate motor cruisers visit ports not reached by large cruise ships Overnight mooring to enjoy the evening ambience and local dining options • two included excursions on each voyage

FOr more MOre details DetAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For

AbOuT yOuR ShIp WhaT’S incluDeD • Return flights from UK to Croatia regional airports may be available on request • 1 piece of hold baggage allowance • Overseas transfers from/to the airport and to/from the ship • 7 nights’ cruise on-board MS Providenca or MS agape rose in your chosen cabin category • Welcome drink and snack • Half board basis: Buffet breakfast and light buffet lunch (except on three days when dinner is included instead of lunch) • Complimentary ½ litre of water with lunch/dinner • Complimentary afternoon snack, plus fresh fruit and tea/coffee throughout the day • Free Wi-Fi on-board • Services of Cruise Manager and crew • Escorted by a Prestige Holidays Tour Manager • Excursion: by coach Skradin and Trogir (entrance to Krka National Park not included) • Exclusive included excursions: MS Providenca cetina river canyon boat trip and “Taste of Dalmatia” tour MS agape rose cetina river canyon boat trip and Vis island tour

ExClUdES: • Taxes & fees; €40.00 or Kuna equivalent (payable on-board in cash only)

MS Providenca

MS Agape Rose

• Personal expenditure

commissioned in 2014 and stylishly refurbished in 2018 the MS Providenca offers a classic style of sailing. The ship is 47m long, 9m wide with a cruising speed of 9 knots. The maximum capacity is 40 guests in 20 cabins across three decks.

MS agape rose was commissioned in June 2017. The ship is 48.5m in length, 8.5m wide, and has a cruising speed of 9 knots.

• Beverages and alcohol (other than above)

all cabins have en-suite bathrooms with shower and Wc, and are air-conditioned. an lcD TV, safe and hairdryer are fitted. The salon-restaurant is situated on the upper deck and can accommodate all guests in one sitting. There is a fully equipped bar and lcD TV. The aft of the ship has a shaded lounge area with club tables and sofas. The top sun deck offers ample space for relaxing with sun-loungers and a hot tub. complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the salon and at the rear of the ship.

She has capacity for just 38 guests - based on twin occupancy. She has19 en-suite cabins on the upper, main and lower decks, and all are fully air-conditioned. The hub of the ship is on the upper deck and houses a fully air-conditioned salon-restaurant that sits all guests at the same time with a fully equipped bar and lcD TV. The aft of the ship has a shaded lounge area with club tables and sofas. The top sun deck offers ample space for relaxing with sun-loungers and a hot tub.

• Tips & gratuities • Beach towel hire €5.00 per week • laundry service available at selected ports • Entrance to Krka and Mljet National Park and Ston ancient walls • Optional walking tours/package • Optional excursions

complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the salon and the aft of the ship.

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AdriAtic HigHligHts 8 DAy S A B OA R D M S AG A P E RO S E

An idyllic summertime sailing, meandering from Omis to Dubrovnik. Dramatic coastline and enchanting islands along the way showcase the region’s stunning beauty from the vantage point from your ship C R U I S E I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 5 (B, D)

Arrival. Embark the Agape Rose for seven nights’ sailing.

Hvar town has immense beauty that buzzes with vibrant energy in the summer sun. Join an optional walking tour around its ancient streets. Overnight in Korcula, the alleged birthplace of the renowned traveller Marco Polo. The island will charm you if you explore independently, or if you decide to join the optional guided tour of the old town.

Overnight: Omis Day 2 (B, L) Enjoy the included excursion along the Cetina River and through its magnificent canyon. Travelling by small boat, you will be up close to the dramatic canyon and experience exceptional beauty.

The Captain dines with guests on-board this evening.

Sail to Pucisca, nestled in a beautiful bay on the island of Brac. Upon arrival, join an optional visit to a nearby stonemasonry school to learn of the Brac limestone, and the centuries-old tradition of stonemasonry.

Overnight: Korcula

Free time in Split to enjoy the Old Town and familiarize yourself with the monumental Diocletian Palace built over 1700 years ago. Alternatively join an optional guided walking tour of Split.

Today, visit the Island of Mljet, home to the incredible National Park. Nature enthusiasts can walk, cycle here and even kayak to the small inlet in the middle of the lake independently, or join the optional excursion with a walk and boat trip to the inlet to see the charming 12th-century Monastery of St. Mary.

Overnight: Split Exclusive included excursion: Omis - Cetina River boat trip

K e y Fac t S Departure dates: 13 July 2019 Price per person: From £2,399 Based on lower deck twin occupancy Flight Information: Outbound: UK to Split Inbound: Dubrovnik to UK Regional departures available upon request.

Sibenik

10 km

Split

OmisC Brac Hvar

Vis

A coach tour to Skradin and Trogir. Visit the small town of Skradin, the guardian of the mouth of River Krka, and the gateway to its National Park, where you can enjoy free time. Continue to Trogir, a petite island bridged to the mainland. It is a perfect showcase of stunning architecture founded upon Greek and Roman heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival in Sibenik, join an optional walking tour, and pass by the Gothic-Renaissance Cathedral of St. James. Overnight: Sibenik Optional walking tour / package - Sibenik Day 4 (B, L) The Agape Rose navigates the narrow channel of St. Anthony out to the open seas and on to the Island of Vis. Vis was below the radar when the rest of Croatia opened up to tourism in the 1960s. There are still abandoned army bases across the island, and during World War 2. Vis was the base for Tito and his partisan movement against Germany. However, today you may recognize Vis as the stunning location for the film Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.

Optional walking tours / package Hvar and Korcula Day 6 (B, L)

Optional excursions: Mljet National Park and ‘Taste of Dalmatia’ Day 7 (B, L) Our final port of call is Dubrovnik. Glimpse its beauty from the sea as you sail beneath the mighty City Walls, before dropping anchor in the port of Gruz. Upon arrival, join the optional walking tour. Transfer to the Old Town, Pile Gate where you will explore this fascinating, world-renowned UNESCO Heritage Site with a guide. In the evening you are free to choose a quiet or bustling restaurant to dine and enjoy the night-time ambiance. Overnight: Dubrovnik Optional walking tour / package Dubrovnik - One way coach transfer from Dubrovnik port (Gruz) to the Old town Day 8 (B) Departure.

Overnight: Vis Exclusive included excursion: Vis Island Tour

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Korcula

MS Agape Rose Flight By Road

Overnight: Slano

Day 3 (B, D)

Mijet

Lunch on-board, and a swimming stop will be made en-route to Slano. From here, take the optional ‘Taste of Dalmatia’ tour, which includes a wine tasting experience.

Optional walking tours / package Pucisca - Stonemasonry School Split

FOR For MORE more DETAILS details VISIT visit www.tOUrSPreStIgehOLIDayS.cO.UK www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

Slano Dubrovnik

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8 DaY S a b Oa R D M S P ROv I D E N C a

Sail Croatia’s captivating coast. The crystal-clear waters of Croatia’s Adriatic Sea are graced with an archipelago of over a thousand beautiful islands swathed in fragrant pine groves, flowers and herbs.

K e y Fac t S Departure dates:

22 Jun 2019 14 Sep 2019 Price per person: From £2,199 Based on lower deck twin occupancy Flight Information: Outbound: UK to Dubrovnik. Inbound: Dubrovnik to UK. Regional departures available upon request.

C R U I S E I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 5 (B, D)

Arrival. Transfer to Dubrovnik (Gruz) harbour, and embark MS Providenca for seven nights’ sailing.

The next destination is Hvar, known for its splendid purple lavender fields, potent red wines and glitzy jet-set visitors. Its prime hotspot is the Old Town of Hvar. Join an optional walking tour and discover the history of the town and the island.

Overnight: Dubrovnik Day 2 (B, L) If this is your first visit to Dubrovnik or you are returning, you cannot fail to be awed by the beauty contained within the ancient walls. It is truly beguiling; explore the labyrinth of limestone streets and alleyways. En-route to Korcula, make a swimming stop off the Elaphite Islands. Upon arrival, join an optional walking tour of Korcula, a Venetian stronghold and the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo. Overnight: Korcula Optional walking tour / package - Korcula Day 3 (B, L) Breakfast is served with stunning views of the archipelago of Korcula, and followed by a scenic sail around the tips of Peljesac peninsula and Hvar Island. The ship continues onward to Pucisca, nestled in a beautiful bay on the island of Brac. Upon arrival, join an optional visit to a stonemasonry school nearby. The final port is Omis, located at the mouth of the Cetina River with a backdrop of massive gorges. From here, join our exclusive included boat trip along the scenic River. Overnight: Omis Exclusive included excursion: Omis - Cetina River boat trip Optional walking tour / package Pucisca - Stonemasonry School Day 4 (B, D) A coach tour to Skradin and Trogir. Visit the small town of Skradin, the guardian of the mouth of River Krka, and the gateway to its National Park, where you can enjoy free time. Continue to Trogir, a petite island bridged to the mainland. It is a perfect showcase of stunning architecture founded upon Greek and Roman heritage, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, we reach Split, another UNESCO listed site. Explore independently or join the optional walking tour to learn about Diocletian’s Palace. Overnight: Split

Take a swimming stop off the beautiful archipelago of Pakleni Otoci. Dinner in the company of the Captain served on-board.

10 km

Split

Omis C

Brac Hvar

Korcula Mljet MS Providenca Flight

Slano Dubrovnik

Overnight: Vela Luka, Korcula Island Optional walking tour / package - Hvar Day 6 (B, L) This morning, we cruise to the green island of Mljet, the home to a stunning National Park. Nature enthusiasts can hike, cycle and even kayak over to the small inlet in the middle of the lake, or join the optional excursion with some free time in the National Park. Spend the evening in the small settlement of Slano on the mainland, once adored by Dubrovnik sea captains. Why becomes selfevident as soon as you take your first stroll along the waterfront. Overnight: Slano Optional excursion - Mljet National Park Day 7 (B, L) Close to Slano, is the petite town of Ston, known for its 5km preserved walls, strong Dalmatian wine, ancient salt production and succulent oysters. Our exclusive included excursion the ‘The Taste of Dalmatia’ tour highlights some of these treasures. Make a swimming stop off Lopud Island as we return to Dubrovnik. This evening, you are free to explore Dubrovnik Old Town at leisure and choose a quiet or bustling restaurant to dine and enjoy the nighttime ambience. Overnight: Dubrovnik Exclusive included excursion: ‘Taste of Dalmatia’ Optional walking tour / package Dubrovnik - One way coach transfer from Dubrovnik port (Gruz) to the Old town Day 8 (B) Departure.

Optional walking tour / package - Split

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AlbAniA & MAcedoniA 1 1 dAY E s C o rt E d g ro u P to u r

step back in time as you explore rich cultural treasures of this intriguing corner of Europe. Albania and Macedonia make the perfect combination

Tirana • Kruja • Ohrid • Struga • Berat • Apollonia • Gjirokaster Saranda • Butrint • Durres do you remember when a visit to Eastern Europe felt different? there was a kind of frisson about countries where the feel of a former Communist ruled region remained in the air. Cities like Budapest and Prague still bore the hallmarks of their pasts. Cars were different, shops were different, restaurants were different, and international brands were thin on the ground. Albania possesses some of the most wonderful cultural heritage in Europe. the country was under Communist rule for 45 years, and within that time, there was an enforced period of atheism for some 24 years. 800,000 bunkers were built to protect the country from attack from ussr. Around 200,000 bunkers remain (some in surprising places), and goats graze among historic ruins where anywhere else they would be protected by security officials amid Do Not Touch signs. tirana, the capital, is a delightful time-warp itself with not a Burger King or Mcdonalds in sight; instead, there are local restaurants, individual boutique shops and a Communist style main square, containing possibly the biggest monuments of a national hero you may have ever seen!

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tour highlights • • • • •

Visit tirana, the capital of Albania Excursions to the uNEsCo listed Berat, onufri Museum, and Butrint travel through a section of the llogara National Park Wine tasing at the Cobo Winery Cross the border into Macedonia for a boat trip and a visit to its historical sites

WhAt’s iNCludEd • • • • • •

return flights from london gatwick to tirana 10 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, seven lunches and nine evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y Fac T S Departure dates: 17 May 2019 Price per person: £1,899 Single supplement: £175 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Tirana Inbound: Tirana to London Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 8 (B, L, D)

Arrival. Short orientation tour of Tirana before a welcome drink and dinner. Tirana’s cityscape is marked by the architecture of two totalitarian regimes: the fascist under Mussolini in World War II, and the communist, the latter symbolised by Skanderbeg Square.

Explore the UNESCO site of Gjirokaster, visiting the castle and museum, which has some interesting relics from the Cold War.

Overnight: Tirana

Depart for Saranda. Take a light lunch in a local restaurant, before continuing to Butrint. Overnight: Saranda Day 9 (B, L, D)

Day 2 (B, L, D) Depart to Kruja, the medieval capital of Albania. Visit the historical museum, Kruja Castle, and a bazaar. Overnight: Tirana Day 3 (B, L, D) Depart to the Macedonian town of Ohrid and take a late lunch. Guided tour of the UNESCO listed Old Town, including visits to two Orthodox churches. Overnight: Ohrid Day 4 (B) Enjoy a boat trip across Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s deepest and most ancient lakes which has a unique ecosystem of worldwide importance and over 200 endemic species. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in this scenic area. Overnight: Ohrid

Tour of Saranda, including the ruins of the biggest synagogue in the Balkans, and the castle of Ali Pasha. Continue to Durres, passing through parts of Llogara National Park, before a light lunch at Vlora. Overnight: Durres Day 10 (B, L, D) Explore Durres and visit the historic core of the town, including the second largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans. Return to Tirana, and enjoy a light lunch and short guided walk before time at leisure.

Kruja Durres 1

This evening, enjoy a rather special farewell meal. Overnight: Tirana Day 11 (B)

M AC A D O N I A

Struga

Tirana

2 Ohrid A L B A N I A

2 Berat

Departure.

Day 5 (B, L, D)

G R E E C E

Visit Sveti Naum and its impressive Orthodox cathedral. After a lunch stop in Struga, a delightful Macedonian town, continue to Berat.

1 Gjirokaster 1 Saranda

Overnight: Berat

100km

Day 6 (B, D) Start the day with a visit to the old town followed by time at leisure. This afternoon, visit the famous Cobo Winery for a tasting and snacks. Overnight: Berat Day 7 (B, L, D) Spend the morning in Berat. Visit the castle, the old town, and the Onufri Museum. After a lunch stop in Fier, continue to Apollonia to explore its archaeological sites, including the acropolis and temple ruins. This evening, transfer to Gjirokaster. Overnight: Gjirokaster

Words from your Tour Manager albania and Macedonia are intriguing countries, steeped in history ancient and modern, some quite dark. Both countries boast wonderful archaeological and world heritage sites demonstrating their varied and rich history. albania in the north, still very much undiscovered, and in the south, its capital Tirana, vibrant and fun with a growing student population. The beaches and coastline around Saranda developing into what will be a real tourist destination of choice in the future. evidence of albania’s communist past can be seen everywhere you travel, some of the buildings and structures recycled to suit modern day living, others left as a reminder of their communist past. I have always found albanians to be warm, friendly and welcoming. Fiercely patriotic and loyal to friends with a complete inability to plan, albanians don’t plan meetings because other things are sure to come up. Step over into Macedonia around Lake Ohrid and the changes are significant. Still, the evidence of their communist past can be seen all around, Tito’s summer palace on the shore of Lake Ohrid is beautiful against the surrounding hills and mountains. The history and religion of great interest, Macedonians can be seen visiting shrines and soaking up the culture alongside visitors and guests. you should visit now to see the real albania and Macedonia; I love the region and its people.

Brian Lane

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AlbAniA & Montenegro 1 0 dAY E s C o rt E d g ro u P to u r

delve deeper into Albania, tracing part of the Via Egnatia and exploring ancient illyrian settlements, complemented by a visit into neighbouring Montenegro.

Tirana • Kruja • Becici • Bay of Boka • Budva • Cetinje Shkoder • Lake Koman • Durres • Apollonia • Berat • Byllis We have introduced our guests to the rugged scenery and enticing cultural heritage of Albania for many years now, as well as neighbouring Montenegro, ‘jewel of the Balkans’. Now, we take you further ‘off the beaten track’ in an already ‘off the beaten track’ destination. Northern Albania has been largely overlooked, despite possessing some of its most incredible scenery and archaeological sites. shkoder is one of the most ancient towns in the country, and the imposing remains of rozafa Castle can be found here - once an illyrian stronghold, it is the Venetian fortifications which mostly remain. Trace the Via Egnatia, an important ancient roman road which connected durres to istanbul, visiting spectacular sites linked by this route, and even seeing some of the ancient road itself.

tour highlights • Visit rozafa Castle, an 2,400 year-old illyrian stronghold • trace part of the Via Egnatia, an important roman road connecting Albania and turkey • guided walking tour of medieval Kotor, a uNEsCo World heritage site • take a boat trip on lake Koman to view the magnificent scenery • sample authentic wine and cuisine from both Albania and Montenegro

WhAt’s iNCludEd • • • • • •

return flights from london gatwick to tirana 9 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, four lunches and daily evening meal All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

But why leave it at Albania? Cross the border into Montenegro and you will be treated to stunning scenery in national parks, medieval towns, and uNEsCo World heritage sites. this is truly a fantastic opportunity to uncover more of the secrets of the Balkans.

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For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y Fac T S Departure dates: 6 May 2019 Price per person: £1,949 Single supplement: £200 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Tirana Inbound: Tirana to London Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Arrival. Transfer to Kruja with a snack dinner en route.

Trace part of the route of the Via Egnatia, an ancient Roman road from the 2nd century BC that connected Rome with its eastern empire. Visit Rrogozhina, Ardenica’s Byzantine monastery, and Apollonia, a Greek colony dating back to the 6th century BC.

Overnight: Kruja Day 2 (B, D) Explore Kruja, the medieval capital of Albania. Visit the ethnographic museum, Kruja Castle, and the bazaar. This afternoon, continue to Lezha to visit the Mausoleum of Skanderbeg, before a wine tasting. Cross the border into Montenegro.

Continue to Berat, the city of one-thousand windows. Overnight: Berat Day 8 (B, D) Spend the morning in the UNESCO listed town, Berat, one of the oldest cities in Albania. The city comprises a unique style of architecture reflecting the influences of various civilisations through its history. It is often called the “town of a thousand windows” due to the large windows of the old decorated houses. Visit the castle, the old town, and the Onufri Museum.

Overnight: Becici Day 3 (B, D) Transfer to the Bay of Boka, stopping en route at Kotor. Explore the medieval old town, the cathedral and the maritime museum before taking a boat across to Sveti Dorde. Return to Becici for dinner.

This afternoon, continue to the ruins of Byllis, before finishing today in Bradashesh to see its Roman villa and bathhouse.

Overnight: Becici Day 4 (B, D) Morning walking tour of Budva’s old town, before continuing to Montenegro’s former capital, Cetinje. Transfer to Lovcen National Park for lunch and a short walk before continuing to Njegusi to sample locally produced cheese, smoked ham and honey wine.

Overnight: Tirana

Cetinje Becici 3 Budva

1 Shkoder

Full day exploring Tirana. Ascend Dajti Mountain by cable car and enjoy lunch accompanied by breath-taking panoramic views.

A L B A N I A

Tonight, there will be a rather special farewell dinner. Overnight: Tirana

Day 5 (B, L, D)

Day 10 (B)

Transfer to Lake Skadar and take a boat ride to Virpazar for lunch and time at leisure.

Departure.

1 Kruja Durres 1

2 Tirana

Ardenica

Cross back into Albania to Shkoder. Take a short walk in the historic centre before visiting the 2400 year old Rozafa Castle.

Apollonia 20km

1 Berat

Byllis

All Roads Lead to Rome

Day 6 (B, L, D) Boat trip across Lake Koman, one of the most scenic experiences in Europe. This afternoon, continue to Durres and visit its Roman amphitheatre and archaeological museum. Overnight: Durres

Bay of Boka

Day 9 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Becici

Overnight: Shkoder

M O N T E N E G RO

The Via egnatia was an important roman road constructed in the 2nd century Bc, connecting Dyrrachium (Durres) with Byzantium (Istanbul), through present-day albania, the republic of Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey, and covering a distance of around 696 miles. The Via egnatia was a lifeline connecting rome with the eastern parts of the empire. The road was used by Paul on his missionary journey as he travelled from Philippi to Thessalonika, and saw the armies of both caesar and Pompey march along it during the civil war. By the 5th century aD, the region’s instability meant the road had fallen into disuse. a contemporary historian noted that the western sections of the Via egnatia were in such a poor state, travellers could barely pass along it. In the later roman empire, the road was revived, and almost all trade between europe and Byzantium used the route. even the crusades saw armies travelling by land following the Via egnatia before arriving into constantinople and crossing into asia Minor. This tour to albania and Montenegro incorporates several key towns and sites along the Via egnatia, including Durres, rrogozhina, ardenia and apollonia, as well as a lesser explored roman villa and bath house in Bradashesh.

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Montenegro: Jewel of the Balkans 1 2 DAY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r

with breath-taking scenery and a rich cultural history, Montenegro still has that genuine ‘off the beaten track’ feel, just waiting to be explored.

Becici • Budva • Cetinje • Lovcen • Lake Skadar • Bay of Boka • Kotor Perast • Bar • Ulcinj • Kolashin • Dubrovnik You will often see Montenegro mentioned in lists of the ‘in’ destinations and “must see before you die”, and there is a reason for this - it is simply a stunning country, oozing with breath-taking scenery, a rich historical and cultural past, a fantastic climate, and the warmest of welcomes. Now is this the time to visit this captivating country before it heads into the inevitable mass tourism market like so many of its better-known neighbours. this meticulously planned tour will bring you the very best Montenegro has to offer, from the beautiful Adriatic coastline and the traditional mountaintop villages to the picture perfect bay and town at Kotor and lake skadar. Your tour finishes with a two night stop in the better known - but equally appealing - city of Dubrovnik.

tour highlights • • • • •

stay on the Adriatic coast at Becici Visit the old capital of Cetinje and lovcen National Park take a boat ride to Virpazar and see the Monastery of Brceli Visit the old towns of Kotor, Perast, Bar and ulcinj Experience the mountainous interior and the National Park of Durmitor

whAt’s iNCluDED • • • • • •

return flights from london gatwick to Dubrovnik 11 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, nine lunches and five evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

Now in its third year, our popular Montenegro tour books up quickly; be sure to enquire early.

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MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 25 Sep 2019 Price per person: £1,949 Single supplement: £275 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Dubrovnik. Inbound: Dubrovnik to London Gatwick. Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (L, D)

Day 8 (B, L, D)

Transfer to Becici. Short orientation tour around the old town of Budva and the afternoon at leisure. This evening, enjoy a welcome drink and dinner.

Drive to Plav, ending at the shores of Plavsko Lake. Visit the town’s old mosque and continue to Alipasha’s Springs. Today provides your first real glimpse into truly rural Montenegro.

Overnight: Becici

Overnight: Kolashin

Day 2 (B, L)

Day 9 (B, L, D)

Depart to Montenegro’s former capital, Cetinje for a guided walk, including a visit to the Palace of King Nicola.

Full day in Durmitor National Park, which has some of the most stunning scenery in the Balkans. It is also home to Europe’s deepest canyon.

Transfer to Lovcen National Park for lunch and a short walk before continuing to Njegusi, the birthplace of the Petrovic dynasty, to sample local produce.

Drive down the Susica Canyon, taking photo stops and visiting local villages along the way.

Overnight: Becici Day 3 (B, L) Transfer to Lake Skadar and explore the town of Rijeka Crnojevico. Take a boat ride to Virpazar to see the Brceli Monastery, and visit the local wine cellar at Kopitovic for lunch.

Overnight: Kolashin Day 10 (B, L, D) Transfer to Dubrovnik. En route, stop at Tivat for lunch and a short walk along the promenade to see its glitzy marina.

20 km

On arrival in Dubrovnik, enjoy a special farewell meal. Overnight: Dubrovnik Day 11 (B)

Overnight: Becici

DurmitOr NatiONaL ParK

Day at leisure.

Day 4 (B)

Overnight: Dubrovnik

Day at leisure.

3 Kolasin

Day 12 (B)

Overnight: Becici

Departure.

Day 5 (B, L)

2 Dubrovnik

Visit the abandoned town of Bar, ruined during an earthquake. Continue to Ulcinj, to an estuary of the Bojana River for lunch, followed by a short visit to Ulcinj’s Old Town. Overnight: Becici Day 7 (B, L, D) Transfer to Montenegro’s mountainous region, with a short stop en route at Monastery Moracha. After checking in to your hotel in the small town of Kolashin, take a short drive to the National Park Biogradska Gora for a gentle walk around Bogradsko Lake.

Plav

Njegusi Cetinje/Lovcen

LaKe Budva 6 SKaDar

Becici

Bar Ulcinj

Visit the lakeside town of Perast for lunch. Day 6 (B, L)

Perast Kotor

Transfer to the Bay of Boka, stopping en route at Kotor. Explore the medieval old town, the cathedral and the maritime museum before taking a boat across to the rather unusual Islet Gospa od Skrpjela. Overnight: Becici

M O N T E N E G RO

Montenegro’s Natural Wonders

aside from its obvious cultural and historical appeal, Montenegro is a country full of awe-inspiring scenery - from its rugged mountain ranges, glacial lakes, deep canyons and an array of flora and fauna. It is a nature lover’s paradise. this tour encompasses a good selection of these, starting with Lovcen national Park, located in the rocky Dinara alps and only an hour from kotor. Lovcen is home to Mount crna Gora, which is the origin for the name Montenegro, which simply translates as ‘Black Mountain’, referring to the dark colouration of the mountain when densely covered in forest. With over 1200 plant species, an abundance of bird life and mammal species including wolves and bears, there is plenty to keep your eyes peeled for. the tour also includes a full day at Durmitor national Park. Here you will be able to see tara river canyon, the deepest canyon in europe. the park is also home to 17 glacial lakes and Montenegro’s third highest peak - Bobotov kuk. as well as a huge variety of flora and fauna, the park has been under UneScO protection since 1980. also featured is the national park of Biogradska Gora (one of the last true virgin forests in europe), Susica canyon (a beautiful canyon with a very high population of brown bears), Lake Skadar (on the border with albania and the largest lake in Southern europe) and the Bay of Boka (an impossibly breath-taking bay on the adriatic Sea). Montenegro is surely one of the most naturally stunning countries in europe, if not the world.

Overnight: Kolashin

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Discover Bulgaria 8 daY E s C o rt E d g ro u P to u r

Cosmopolitan cities, beautiful mountain ranges and ancient roman theatres - all in the ancient and mysterious land of the thracians.

Sofia • Rila Monastery • Sandanski • Melnik • Bansko • Rhodope Mountains Bachkovo Monastery • Plovdiv • Starosel Explore one of the oldest inhabited regions of Europe. Wonderfully mysterious with epic mountain ranges, almost unfathomable cave systems and some fantastically cosmopolitan cities, Bulgaria has a deeply religious past, boasting no fewer than 120 monasteries, with the example at rila being the most architecturally striking. there are also stunning cathedrals and stark contrasting relics of a bygone soviet-Era. a land conquered by thracians, greeks, romans and turks, there is a plethora of historical treats to discover, none more so than the stunning 2000 year-old roman theatre at Plovdiv. Our journey from Sofia to Plovdiv will see you stay in the best 4 and 5-star hotels available, some inclusive of excellent spa facilities. We also include several wine tastings, one at Bulgaria’s smallest city, Melnik, reputed to be Winston Churchill’s favourite vintage, and another at starosel, known for the abundance of ancient neolithic and thracian sites. this fantastic voyage across the rhodope mountains will introduce you to a traditional way of life and stunning panoramas that will stay with you for a lifetime. now really is the time to discover Bulgaria.

2 50

tour highlights • take in the serenity of the surroundings of rila Monastery • Wine tasting in Melnik, reputed to be Winston Churchill’s favourite vintage • Enjoy stunning landscapes and an introduction to traditional lifestyles in the rhodope mountains • Enter the tomb of a thracian noble with excitement and trepidation • Marvel at the wonder that is Plovdiv’s ancient roman theatre

What’s inCludEd • • • • • •

return British airways flights from london heathrow to sofia 7 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, six lunches and five evening meals all excursions and entrance fees all overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details dEtails visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 7 July 2019 Price per person: £1,579 Single supplement: £200 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Sofia Inbound: Sofia to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A RY Day 1 (D)

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Arrival. Explore the numerous attractions of one of Europe’s most historic cities, Sophia. A plethora of churches is ready for a discerning eye to appreciate some truly unique architecture, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Visit Plovdiv, designated to be the European Capital of Culture for 2019. Enjoy a comprehensive tour of the city and bask in the atmosphere of the enchanting Roman theatre.

Overnight: Sofia

Day 8 (B)

Day 2 (B, L, D)

Departure.

Overnight: Plovdiv

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rila Monastery. Continue to the foot of the Pirin Mountains, where only 20km from the Greek border is the smart resort town of Sandanski. Overnight: Sananski Day 3 (B, L) Transfer to Melnik, Bulgaria’s smallest city. Visit the nearby Rozhen monastery, followed by a wine tasting. Proceed to Bansko, to walk around its old quarter.

“The Thracian people, like the bloodiest of the barbarians, being ever most murderous when it has nothing to fear” Thucydides History of the Peloponnesian War

Overnight: Bansko Day 4 (B, L, D) Visit the village of Dobarsko, famous for its 17th century church and noted for the abundance of original frescoes, some of which are interpreted as portraying Jesus in a rocket! In the afternoon, take the narrow-gorge railway to Belitza and enjoy a scenic journey through mountainous terrain. At Belitza, visit a conservation park for rescued bears, the largest sanctuary of its type in Europe. Overnight: Bansko Day 5 (B, L, D) Today’s journey passes through the villages of Leshten and Kovachevitsa. Continue along the picturesque route over the Rhodope Mountains before reaching one of its most famous landmarks, the Yagodinska cave, about 10km long with labyrinths and abysses inside. Overnight: Devin Day 6 (B, L) Continue your exploration of the mysterious Rhodope Mountains with a visit to Devil’s Throats cave, rumoured in myth to be where Orpheus descended into the underworld in search of his beloved Euredice. Continue visit Shiroka Laka and the magnificent Bachkovo monastery. Overnight: Plovdiv

“Bulgarians are strong and adamant people which had never been afraid of death. They are good-willing to their friends and fierce to their enemies, infinitely hospitable and they like to live in peace and accord with their neighbours.”

10km

Sofia

B U L G A R I A

Starosel

Hugas Indejedijan Armenian travel notes on the Balkans 17th-19th century

Rila Monastery

Sandanski 1

Bansko

Devin

2 Plovdiv Bachkovo Monastery

Meinek

Battleground of Empires In antiquity, Bulgaria was the battleground of numerous peoples, including the thracians, Persians, ‘celts’ and Macedonians, until it was conquered by the romans in 45 aD. the thracians were a tribal people who settled in Bulgaria sometime before the 12th century Bc. they were renowned for their spectacular metallurgy and for passing two cults into greek religion: Orphean and Dionysian. the achaemenids conquered Bulgaria in the 6th century Bc, and inspired thracian tribes to unite and form the Odrysian kingdom in the 5th century Bc. Philip of Macedon (father of alexander the great) transformed Bulgaria into a vassal state in the 4th century Bc and greatly weakened it, allowing the celtic tribes to attack in the 3rd century Bc. Bulgaria became a province of the roman empire in the 1st century aD. after a period of relative stability under the romans and the onset of christianity, during which the first christian monastery in europe was founded, Bulgaria came under Byzantine control after the fall of rome, and was subsequently invaded by the Slavs during the Byzantine/Persian wars, becoming a cultural hub. even after antiquity, Bulgaria was invaded again and again, including five centuries of Ottoman rule and a communist stint, until becoming a democracy in 1991.

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Discover romania’s Transylvania 1 0 DaY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r

this central region of romania is surrounded by breath-taking mountain scenery and dotted with medieval villages, painted monasteries, and some of the warmest hospitality in Europe.

Brasov • Bran Castle • Bucovina • Prejmer • Bicaz Canyon • Gura Humorului • Sighisoara Sibiu • Sinaia • Dealu Mare • Bucharest Ask anyone for their first image when you mention transylvania, and the obvious answer will be ‘Dracula’, made famous by Bram stoker’s novel. when you see Bran Castle for the first time, with its awe inspiring towers punctuating the mountainous skyline, it is easy to see why so many have linked this castle with the legend of Dracula, and furthermore to the once Prince of wallachia, Vlad the impaler - otherwise known as Vlad Dracula. this tour will uncover this story, but transylvania has so much more to offer, which is often overlooked. transylvania is home to some of Europe’s most impressive scenery and surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains where bears, wolves and lynxes still roam and impressive alpine flora puts on a dazzling display. Add to the mix an impressive collection of uNEsCo heritage sites, stunning painted monasteries, wine estates and plentiful museums - romania is a must see.

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tour highlights • • • • •

Visit Dracula’s transylvania and the impressive Bran Castle Marvel at romania’s famous painted monasteries Drive through the scenic slopes of the Carpathian Mountains Visit the fairytale uNEsCo walled town of sighisoara Explore romania’s capital city of Bucharest and see its mighty Palace of Parliament

what’s iNCluDED • • • • • •

return flights from london heathrow to Bucharest 9 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels Daily breakfast, three lunches and nine evening meals all excursions and entrance fees all overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details DEtails visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 20 Sep 2019 Price per person: £1,599 Single supplement: £250 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Bucharest Inbound: Bucharest to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

To u R i T i n E R a Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 7 (B, D)

Arrival. Transfer to Brasov (approx. 2h30) and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Full morning tour around the medieval citadel of Sighisoara and the traditional Saxon village of Viscri, one of the most beautiful in Transylvania. Continue to the mountain town of Sinaia.

Overnight: Brasov Day 2 (B, D) Spend the morning visiting Bran Castle and the enchanting city of Brasov, including a tour inside the first Romanian School of Schei, located in the historic part of the city. Overnight: Brasov Day 3 (B, L, D) Continue to Bucovina, the historical central region on the northern slopes of the Eastern Carpathians and the adjoining plains. Look at the fortified church in the commune of Prejmer, views of the Red Lake (Lacu Rosa) and the surrounding Bicaz Canyon - this is one of the country’s most spectacular drives. Overnight: Gura Humorului Day 4 (B, L, D) Romania is famous for its painted monasteries. Spend a full day admiring some of its most notable ones, namely the stunning orthodox monasteries of Moldovita and Sucevita and the famous Voronet which is often referred to as the ‘Sistine Chapel of the East’. Visit the Museum of Decorated Eggs in Vama - an age old Romanian Easter tradition. Overnight: Gura Humorului

Overnight: Sinaia Day 8 (B, D) Visit the castles of Peles and Pelisor. Both are impressive museums and the final resting place for numerous Romanian monarchs. This afternoon, continue to Dealu Mare, a region known for its wine production. Enjoy a wine tasting session and an early dinner in a local restaurant before continuing to Bucharest. Overnight: Bucharest Day 9 (B, D) Spend a full day exploring the capital city of Bucharest. Often overlooked by travellers in favour of the better known Eastern European cities, Bucharest has a lot to offer. One of the most iconic sites is its unimaginably large Palace of Parliament, the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. After seeing the city’s highlights, enjoy a delicious farewell meal. Overnight: Bucharest Day 10 (B) Departure.

100km

U K R A I N E

Gura Humorului 2 Bicaz

RO M A N I A

Sighisoara 2 Sibiu

2 Brasov Sinaia 1

2 Bucharest

Day 5 (B, L, D) Continue to the historic Transylvanian city of Sighisoara, located on the Tarnava Mare River, a UNESCO listed beautiful walled old town seemingly straight from the pages of a fairy tale story. En route to Sighisoara, stop at the city of Bistrita and visit the impressive Palace of Culture at Targu Mures. Overnight: Sighisoara Day 6 (B, D) Visit Biertan and Sibiu. Biertan is another UNESCO site and is one of the most important Saxon villages with fortified churches in Transylvania. It is actually made up of three separate villages, each with its own fortified church. Sibiu is regarded as the cultural capital of Transylvania, and known for its Germanic architecture in the old town, built by the Saxons in the 12th century. There is ample time for a guided walk around its medieval walls, towers, palace and cathedral.

B U L G A R I A

The Real Dracula “[Vlad] had a big copper cauldron built and put a lid made of wood with holes in it on top. He put the people in the cauldron and put their heads in the holes and fastened them there; then he filled it with water and set a fire under it and let the people cry their eyes out until they were boiled to death. and then he invented frightening, terrible, unheard of tortures.” Before writing his infamous gothic novel, Dracula, in 1897, whose legacy has inspired countless horror movies, tV shows and other blood-curdling tales of vampires, Bram Stoker spent seven years researching european folklore, including transylvanian superstitions of vampire myths. Many historians are convinced that the authoritarian ruler Vlad the Impaler, also known as the Prince of Wallachia, was the model for Stoker’s Dracula. Vlad the Impaler is renowned for his cruelty and brutality, famously dipping bread into buckets containing the blood drained from his victims, who were invited to his mansion before being impaled. the earliest german stories about him recounted that he had carried men, women and children from a Saxon village to Wallachia and had them impaled, and it is these stories, written by his enemies, which prevail.

Overnight: Sighisoara

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Discover the Baltic states 1 2 dAY E s C o rt E d g ro u P to u r

Known as the source of Europe’s amber trade (the ‘Amber road’), these gems of Vilnius, riga & Estonia are cultural jewels, polished and waiting to be discovered.

Vilnius • Trakai • Kernave • Klaipeda • Curonian Spit • Palanga Kuldiga • Riga • Sigulda • Aluksne • Tallinn three countries very unique in character and history make up the Baltic states. lands carpeted in vast swathes of lush green forest, shorelines awash with ancient amber, and a people that have endured many conflicts and crusades over hundreds of years. the countries of lithuania, latvia and Estonia were colonised by Vikings, were some of the last bastions of pagan religion in Europe (targeted by years of Christian crusades), and suffered heavily under both soviet and nazi rule. in the modern world, all three countries boast a high standard of living, beautiful archaeological sites and national parks, and also vibrant hubs of culture as their capital cities. this tour of the Baltics will take you from the imposing castle of trakai to the natural beauty of the Curonian spit, from stunning amber finds at Palanga to Viking burial sites in Grobina, from the latvian switzerland of sigulda and into Estonia. Join Prestige holidays on an exceptional adventure to uncover the Baltic states.

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tour highlights • • • • •

Explore the impressive 14th century castle at trakai lake A day trip along the natural wonder of the Curonian spit the incredible amber exhibition in Palanga A chance to explore and shop in riga’s old-town Visit all three capital cities of the Baltic states

whAt’s inCludEd • • • • • •

Flights from london gatwick to lithuania and back from Estonia 11 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, seven lunches and six evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y FAc T S Departure dates: 2 Aug 2019 Price per person: £2,325 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Vilnius Inbound: Tallinn to London Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

To u R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 8 (B, L, D)

Arrival. Walking exploration of vibrant Vilnius, including the nearby Amber Museum. Continue to Gediminas Tower before soaking up the sights of Cathedral Square.

A day of castles! An early jaunt to Sigulda; known as the Switzerland of Latvia, this town boasts some beautiful views including the impressive castle ruins. Continue to Cesis where to visit the 13th century castle.

Overnight Vilnius

Overnight Cesis

Day 2 (B, L) Early morning visit to the fantastic Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania before departing for the nearby town of Trakai to explore the stunning 14th century lake-castle. Also visit the Karaite Ethonographic Museum. Overnight Vilnius

Day 9 (B, L) Journey on the picturesque narrow gauge railway to Aluksne, in the Latvian highlands and nestled on the shores of an expansive lake. Cross the border into beautiful Estonia before arriving at Tartu. Overnight Tartu

Day 3 (B, L) Transfer to the fantastic archaeological site at Kernave and visit its impressive archaeological museum. Continue westwards to Lithuania’s second largest city, Kaunas, and explore its castle. Overnight Klaipeda Day 4 (B, D) Stroll around the historic city of Klaipeda, including the excellent Castle Museum and lunch in the beautiful open Theatre Square. This heart of the city has played home to both culture and villains alike, once hosting Adolf Hitler for a rally at the outbreak of World War 2.

Day 10 (B, L) Estonia’s second largest city sits on the banks of the River Emajogi, which connects the country’s two largest lakes. Enjoy a leisurely walking tour of Tartu’s sights, including the Museum of Classical Arts & Antiquities, the old town and the Toome Hill ruins of the old Dome Church. After lunch, visit the Estonian National Museum before continuing to Tallinn, the capital.

Day 5 (B, L, D)

Overnight Tallinn

Transfer to Palanga. Take a leisurely stroll through the local gardens before visiting the impressive Museum of Amber. Continue north and cross into Latvia. Visit Grobina, with a brief walk around its lake, ruins of the medieval castle, and Viking burial grounds.

Day 12 (B)

Day 6 (B, L, D) In Kuldiga, stroll through the historic town centre, boasting unique 17th - 18th century architecture. Soak up the wonderful vista of the River Venta and Europe’s widest natural rapid. Continue to the nation’s capital, Riga.

Walking tour of Riga’s historic old town with visits to St. Peter’s Church, Riga Cathedral, the ‘Three Brothers’ and the National Museum. Afternoon at leisure.

Tar tu 1

Kuldiga

Riga

L AT V I A

Liepaja

Departure.

1 Cesis Aluksne

Palanga

2 Klaipeda L I T H U A N I A

Trakai

2 Vilnius

The Amber Road

Overnight Liepaja

Day 7 (B)

E S TO N I A

Day 11 (B, D)

Overnight Klaipeda

Overnight Riga

2 Tallinn

Overnight Tallinn Tallinn is considered one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. Start in the picturesque old town, where the whole district dates back to the Middle Ages. The tour includes Toompea Castle, the 13th century Dome Church and many other sites of interest.

Take the ferry across to the Curonian Spit and travel down the spine of this unusual geographic feature to the charming sea-side town of Nida.

50km

The Baltic region is home to the largest known deposit of amber, dating back to over 44 million years ago. A natural fossilized tree resin similar to sap, containing a high natural content of succinic acid, it comes in a variety of colours including white, green, pink, blue, and even black. It is most commonly associated with the amber colour form, which is most common. Amber is often worn as jewellery as it has apparent natural healing properties and is often used as a homeopathic anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. It has been estimated that the forests of this region created more than 100,000 tonnes of amber, and today, 90% comes from kaliningrad, who extract around 400 tonnes a year. Quite often, extracted amber contains the entombed remains of extinct flowers and insects in an almost pristine state. Sometimes dubbed the ‘gold of the north’, it was an important commodity in pre-16th century europe and the ‘Amber road’ was an ancient trade route running from the Baltic States to Southern europe. Today, amber is still in high demand and can fetch a high price, used mainly for fashion purposes. During our tour, you will have ample opportunity to view and purchase some of the region’s amber in numerous forms, and we will also visit the famous Pelanga Amber Museum in Lithuania.

Overnight Riga

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GeorGia & armenia explorer 1 1 dAY E s c o rt E d g ro u P to u r

From Yerevan to tbilisi, uncover the spirit of the wild caucasus and the people who have lived here for thousands of years on this in-depth journey.

Yerevan • Garni • Geghard • Agarak • Gyumri • Borjomi Svaneti • Mestia • Kutaisi • Tbilisi nestled between the Black sea and the caspian sea, the countries of the caucasus are home to Europe’s largest mountain, Elbrus, where the titan Prometheus was imprisoned by Zeus. standing at approximately 19,000 feet, this imposing dormant volcano looms over some of the oldest christian lands in the world. georgia & Armenia sit on a crossroad of christian and Muslim cultures and because of this, these highland countries have a long and bloody history of conflict. They boast dramatic alpine landscapes which hide equally dramatic stories, from ancient times all the way through to the collapse of the soviet union. our group has the chance to journey from one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, Yerevan, to vibrant tbilisi. Along the way, we will see such highlights as stunning frescoes in gelati monastery, the rugged landscape of Vardzia cave-monasteries, and a hellenistic temple at garni, to mention a few. A traditional way of life still pervades through the valleys of these countries and our group will have plenty of opportunities to admire the folk culture and cuisine hidden behind every mountain - and with one of the world’s oldest viticultures (dating back almost 8000 years), this cultural feast is likely to be washed down with a glass or two of fine wine.

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tour highlights • Explore the quirky centre of old town tbilisi, georgia’s charming and colourful capital • Enjoy serenity and wonderful frescoes at the monastery of gelati • Visit the impressive cave dwellings and monastery at 12th century Vardzia • take in the sights of Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities • View the breath-taking mountain backdrops including svaneti in georgia and Mt. Ararat in Armenia

whAt’s includEd • • • • • •

Flights from london gatwick to Armenia and returning from georgia 9 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, eight lunches and nine evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e Y Fac T S Departure dates: 10 Jun 2019 Price per person: £2,379 Single supplement: £350 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Yerevan Inbound: Tibilisi to London Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

To u R i T i N E R A RY Day 1 (D)

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Arrival. Transfer to Yerevan and enjoy a snack dinner at the hotel.

Visit the nearby Museum of History, which offers a small but intriguing exhibition of archaeology, ethnography and Christian art. Continue to the Becho Valley for a short walk followed by a family meal of traditional Svan cuisine, and visit an original 12th century Svan house.

Overnight: Yerevan Day 2 (B, L, D) Explore Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. Visit the main sites the city has to offer, including Matenadaran, which holds on of the world’s richest depositories of medieval manuscripts. Drive into the Kotaky Region with photo stops at some stunning sites. The Arch of Charents overlooks Yerevan and Mt Ararat. Garni is a Hellenistic temple, and Geghard is a rock-hewn monastery. Overnight: Yerevan

Overnight: Mestia Day 8 (B, L, D) Visit the scenic uNESCo site of the Gelati academy and monastery. Dating back to the 12th century, the monastery boasts some of the most stunning frescoes in all of Georgia. Overnight: Kutaisi Day 9 (B, L, D)

Day 3 (B, L) Drive to the region of Ararat to visit Khor Virap Monastery, from modern Armenia this is the closest point for viewing Biblical Mt. Ararat; the supposed resting place of Noah’s Ark. From here, continue to the region of Vayots Dzor, well known for its centuries old winemaking traditions where the village of Areni has become the flagship of Armenia’s burgeoning wine industry today Overnight: Yerevan Day 4 (B, L, D) Pass through scenic Ashtarak town for a coffee stop before continuing to mystical Agarak, its landscape dotted with large rock and stone carved complexes, the majority of which relate to early Bronze Age settlements. Stop at the funerary complex in Aghdzk before lunch. This afternoon, explore Gyumri, which possesses the largest collection of authentic 18-19th century Armenian architecture.

Photo stop at the monolith Katskhi Monastery before stopping in the famous mining town of Chiatura, one of the soviet era’s most industrial cities. Continue to the highland region of imereti to explore the heart of Georgia’s ancient viticulture in some 17th century wine cellars. Continue to Tbilisi.

Continue across the Javakheti Plateau to admire 6,000 year old megaliths, followed by migrating birds at Lake Apri. The arguable highlight of today is a visit to the impressive 12th century Vardzia cave settlement. Here, explore a warren of cave dwellings, monasteries and subterranean passageways which redolent of the past. Overnight: Borjomi Day 6 (B, L, D) Visit one of the last remaining qvevri makers, Zaliko Bojadze, continuing the traditions of crafting these amphora-esque gigantic clay vessels. Overnight: Mestia

Mestia

Overnight: Tbilisi Day 10 (B, D) Comprehensive city tour of Tbilisi, the charming and colourful capital of Georgia. After lunch in the renowned restaurant Littera (located in the iconic ‘Writer’s House’), spend the afternoon strolling through the city with visits to the Art Palace and the National Museum of History, which boasts a wonderful collection of golden artefacts from pre-Christian Georgia.

Kutaisi 1 G E o R G I A

Borjomi 1

2 Tbilisi

1 Gyumri A Z E R B A I J A N

A R m A N I A

T U R K E Y

Geghard

Yerevan Garni

Overnight: Tbilisi Day 11 (B) Departure.

Overnight: Gyumri Day 5 (B, L, D)

RU S S I A

50km

The Lone Monk One of the most iconic images of Georgia is the impressive natural limestone monolith of katshki Pillar, located in central Georgia near the town of chiatura. Standing at 40 metres high and overlooking the small river valley of katskhura, it is topped with the visible ruins of a small church dedicated to St Maximus, built between the 6th and 8th centuries aD. Believed to have been a sacred site for Pagans over 2,000 years ago, it represented a local god of fertility. With the arrival of christianity, it was used for christian hermits as a way of detaching themselves from the world and being closer to God. It was only as recent as 1944 that the pillar was properly surveyed, from which we have learnt a little more. Today, one lone hermit, 65 year old orthodox monk, Maxime Qavtaradze, lives on top of the pillar, who at first resorted to living in a fridge to seek refuge from the elements. However, since a recent renovation of a derelict chapel and the construction of a cottage, the monk has much better accommodation, albeit a very lonesome one. Whilst spending the majority of his time on the pillar, he receives daily provisions by supporters on the ground via a winch, and he also descends via a 131 foot iron ladder to pray at a small monastery at the base of the pillar at least twice a week.

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For more details visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

REST of ThE WoRLD Prestige Holidays has long been associated with providing exceptional holidays in Europe, and still does. However, over the past few years, we have also been taking our successful formula to places a bit further afield, and I am delighted to present our range of tours for 2019 that fall into the ‘rest of the world’ category. as the manager for our Tours department, it is overwhelming how the development and success of this programme has gone from strength to strength over the past few years, and it is exciting to be part of this. Escorted Group Tours is one of the fastest growing sectors in the travel industry, and we have been lucky to have been part of this success, doubling our passenger numbers in 2018 from the previous year. I am further thankful to be heading up a team of such enthusiastic people who are dedicated to putting together such unique and meticulously designed tours, which is always evident in the continued positive feedback we receive from our guests. For 2019, we have introduced some fabulous new touring destinations, including a superb journey through Indochina, an in depth tour of Morocco, an off the beaten track look at China, and a bucket list tour of Iran. We are also pleased to feature two very iconic journeys - one based around the adventures of lawrence of arabia in Jordan, and the other to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day along the liberation route through France, Holland, Belgium and luxembourg. although maybe slightly out of category, we have also included our Flora and Fauna tours in the magical Isles of Scilly, following its incredible success last year, and a Channel Islands Explorer tour to complete our ‘closer to Home’ offering. Join us in 2019 and let us take you on a memorable journey of exploration and showcase the world, Prestige style!

Lee Hamilton escorted tours Manager

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AL N AT U R RS E D N O W

Flora and Fauna oF the ScillieS 6 dAY E s c o rt E d g ro u P to u r W i t h W i l l WAg s tA F F

the isles of scilly is an idyllic archipelago of 50 islands located just 30 miles from the cornish coast. As well as a true step-back in time feeling, the islands boast an array of wildlife.

St Mary’s • Tresco • Bryher • St Martin’s

due to their unique geographical position just off the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly has an abundance of flora and fauna just waiting to be discovered - often species not seen anywhere else on the uK mainland. there are approximately 453 species of seabirds, waders and migrants which can be spotted throughout the year, including puffins, night herons, manx shearwaters and redstarts. spring is a particularly good time to spot birds in song displaying their breeding plumage and the arrival of the breeding puffin colonies. In autumn, you have a better chance of catching a rare species as they migrate through the islands. however, it is not all about birds; the islands host a huge variety of plants and flowers as well as seal colonies, and if you’re lucky, we may even spot a pod of dolphins on our ferry ride across from the mainland.

tour highlights • Visit the island of tresco and its stunning Abbey gardens • Full day excursion to the island of Bryher • Afternoon visit to st Martin’s to see some of the finest beaches in the world • Eastern isles Boat trip to look for colonies of grey seals • Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Will Wagstaff

WhAt’s includEd • • • • • •

return ferry on board the scillonian iii from Penzance 5 nights’ accommodation in a good standard hotel daily breakfast and evening meal All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

during this tour, stay on and explore st Mary’s, visit the islands of tresco, Bryher and st Martin’s, and take a boat trip to the uninhabited Eastern isles to catch sightings of the Atlantic grey seals. this tour is escorted by Will Wagstaff, the islands’ resident ornithologist and naturalist, who has been leading tours for over 25 years.

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For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y FAc t S Departure dates:

5 Apr, 17 & 25 May, 20 & 27 Sept 2019 From £1,399 £180 16

Price per person: Single supplement: Max group size: Sailing Information: Outbound: Penzance to St Mary’s. Inbound: St Mary’s to Penzance.

TO u R i T i n e R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 5 (B, D)

Arrival. After disembarking onto the island of St Mary’s, take a short orientation walk through Hugh Town. This delightful town is nestled between two sandy beaches and is an interesting place to explore with its independent shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs. Finish our walk at its impressive museum before dinner at one of the island’s best restaurants.

Depart this morning on the eastern isles Boat Trip in search of the Atlantic grey seal colonies and a variety of seabirds. This takes us to the edge of the archipelago where the calm waters merge with the strong currents of the Atlantic, before landing on St Martin’s, the archipelago’s northernmost island, boasting some of the finest sand beaches in the world.

Overnight: St Mary’s

Day 2 (B, D)

Day 6 (B)

Take the short ferry ride across to the privately owned island of Tresco and spend the morning exploring the inland pools and farm tracks, looking for wildlife. Look out for wildfowl dabbling in the pools and pipits bouncing amongst the gorse, or even a merlin darting overhead. After a leisurely lunch at the café, take a guided walk through one of the island’s most loved sites, Tresco Abbey Gardens - often referred to as “Perennial Kew without the glass”. This is a flora lover’s paradise and its sub-tropical gardens built in the 19th century around the remains of a Benedictine Abbey offer sheltered tree glades and sunny terraces with views out over the crystal blue waters. Keep an eye out for the stunningly attractive resident golden pheasant population! After returning to St Mary’s, enjoy dinner in the hotel’s delightful Spirit Restaurant.

Departure.

Overnight: St Mary’s Day 3 (B, D) This morning, embark on the Seabird Special Boat Trip, a two-hour cruise in search of sea bird colonies. Catch sight of razorbills, guillemots, gannets, shearwaters and with any luck the iconic puffin (only possible on the spring tour). The cruise will also give you a good insight into just how numerous the islands are, as we weave in amongst rocky outcrops and larger uninhabited islands. Return to St Mary’s for lunch, before a leisurely afternoon walk through some of the nature trails on the island.

From Penzance

C L i e n T F e e D B AC K “Brilliant! From start to finish it ticked all our boxes. Our tour manager was excellent and really took care of our group. Will Wagstaff was very knowledgeable. He had great local knowledge and ensured all of the group had good chances to see the wildlife. We thoroughly enjoyed our holiday and will definitely book another one with you very soon.”

ST MARTin’S BRyHeR TReSCO

SAMSOn ST MARyS

Mr and Mrs Cooper, Ipswich “This was one of the best holidays i have ever had. i would willingly travel with Prestige again”

5 Hugh Town

ST AGneS

1km

Mrs Shaw, Northampton

Words from your Guide Lecturer

Full day exploring the contrasting landscapes on Bryher, the smallest of the inhabited islands. From rugged granite shore lines to calm, glassy blue bays, walk along the coastline trails in search of birds, insects and flowers. With any luck, we might catch a distant glimpse of a seal breaking the waves, or a yellow wagtail bobbing across the grass or, with a bit of searching on hands and knees we may find the famous dwarf pansy. Our lunch stop today is at the award winning Hell Bay Hotel.

I first came to Scilly as a teenager on a family holiday. A few years later, I knew enough about how good the islands were for migrant birds and decided I wanted to see the whole autumn migration. I was supposed to be on Scilly for four months and am still here over thirty years later! It’s that addictive. Whatever the season, I am always watching the weather to see where the winds are coming from as that has a major influence on what birds one can see, whether from the continent or north America in the autumn, if one is very lucky. the terrific variation in the flora, particularly in the spring, brings many botanists to the islands as we have plants from all over the world as well as some rare native plants. It is this unpredictability that makes wildlife watching here such a pleasure, as one never knows what one will see as you step out the door. So whether it is watching the swallows flying by or a windblown vagrant resting in a sheltered spot or seeking out some of our scarce plants, there is always something to look for.

Overnight: St Mary’s

Will Wagstaff

Overnight: St Mary’s Day 4 (B, D)

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Channel Islands explorer 1 0 dAY E s c o rt E d g ro u P to u r

the channel islands are British-owned yet have a distinctly French feel, each offering a unique mix of historic sights, fabulous beaches and stunning scenery - this tour will enable you to see them all!

Jersey • Guernsey • Sark • Herm • Alderney

This definitive tour of the Channel Islands will showcase the main inhabited islands of Jersey, guernsey, sark, herm and an optional excursion to Alderney. discover their rich heritage which has shaped their unique identity, from the german occupation of World War two to the norman ownership in the late medieval period. May is a fantastic time to visit with a comfortable climate, normally a couple of degrees warmer than the mainland, and an array of springtime flora and fauna waiting to be discovered. start with the largest of the islands, Jersey before taking the ferry to guernsey to include trips to its smaller sister islands, herm and sark. there will also be an optional full day excursion by flight to the northernmost island of Alderney. Along the way, you will be treated to historical sites, wine estates, stunning gardens, the world renowned Jersey Zoo, and even try your hand at star-gazing in sark’s observatory. All this is complimented by the channel islands’ mouth-watering cuisine. this is sure to be a very special trip.

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tour highlights • • • • •

Visit and private talk at Jersey Zoo Wine tasting at la Mare Wine Estate, Jersey star gazing at sark observatory Walking tour of herm optional day excursion to Alderney

WhAt’s includEd • return ferry with condor from Poole, outbound to Jersey and return from guernsey • 9 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels • daily breakfast and seven evening meals • All excursions and entrance fees • All local transport and guides • services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

For MorE more dEtAils details Visit visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y fac t S Departure dates: 16 May 2019 Price per person: £1,999 Single supplement: £679 Max group size: 16 Sailing Information: Outbound: Poole to Jersey. Inbound: Guernsey to Poole.

TO u R I T I n E R A Ry Day 1 (D) Arrival. Transfer to the hotel before going to La Mare Wine Estate for a guided tour. Visit the vineyards, orchards, cognac distillery and the chocolate production kitchen, and taste many different products such as Jersey black butter, chocolates and of course, the wine! Dinner at the Pomme d’Or Hotel. Overnight: Jersey Day 2 (B, D)

Alderney must be booked at time of booking the tour to guarantee your place). Overnight: Guernsey Day 7 (B) Transfer to the tiny island of Herm, as if straight from the imagination of Enid Blyton, only a twenty minute ferry crossing away. Annette Henry leads a guided tour before stopping for lunch at a local eatery. After the return ferry to Guernsey, the evening will be at leisure.

Overnight: Guernsey Morning visit to Mont Orgueil, a medieval castle with spectacular views over Gorey. Free time to take Day 8 (B, D) lunch at leisure before an afternoon visit to Jersey Today, transfer to the island of Sark and arrive at the Zoo. Stocks Hotel, your home for the next two nights. Overnight: Jersey The afternoon is free to explore the island before dinner at the hotel. In the evening, walk across to Day 3 (B, D) the Observatory for a private viewing and a chance Today, visit the Jersey War Tunnels and uncover to see shooting stars and the Milky Way (weather the island’s dark past under the five-year German dependent). Occupation during World War Two. Discover for Overnight: Sark yourselves what it was like to live in this time of fear and uncertainty. Return to St Helier for the Day 9 (B, D) afternoon, free to explore more of the island at your own pace. Dinner at the Corbiere Phare, a fantastic After breakfast, enjoy a private guided tour of the owner’s gardens and permaculture by the restaurant overlooking the Corbiere Lighthouse, head gardener, Susan Fryer. The permaculture famous for its sunset. garden was created in 2013 in order to sustainably Overnight: Jersey grow vegetables and cut flowers for the hotel. The afternoon is free to explore more of Sark Day 4 (B, D) independently, before meeting back at the hotel for Today, transfer to Guernsey by Condor ferry. The our farewell dinner. afternoon is free to explore the capital of St Peter Overnight: Sark Port or make use of the hotel’s outdoor pool and terrace area. Dinner this evening is at the hotel’s Day 10 (B) Leopard Bar and Restaurant. Departure. Overnight: Guernsey

Alderney

F R A N C E

Guernsey

Herm

Sark

C H A N N E L I S L A N D S

Jersey

Day 5 (B, D) Following a short five minute walk, visit the award winning restored Victorian Candie Gardens, home to the oldest known heated glasshouse and a variety of plants from all over the globe. There is also a museum, art gallery and research library, where you will find a large collection on Guernsey’s history. Return on foot to the hotel for time for lunch (cost not included) before the afternoon visit to Victor Hugo’s Hauteville House. Overnight: Guernsey Day 6 (B) Take an optional day excursion to the quirky island of Alderney, by a 20 minute flight from Guernsey. Resident local guide Annette Henry brings the islands rich heritage to life, fondly referring to Alderney as the ‘Cinderella Island’, with her two bigger ‘ugly sisters’ Guernsey and Jersey. For those who would prefer to remain on Guernsey, tour manager will recommend alternative activities or places of interest. (Please note that this excursion to

10km

Words from our Channel Island Product Manager I think the channel Islands can often be over-looked as a holiday destination, with many opting for sunnier climes in far away places. However, I feel this is a travesty! My aim at Prestige is to showcase these fantastic islands exactly as they are, rich in heritage and with beaches to rival the caribbean, and thereby prove that your perfect getaway is closer to home than you may think. What I love about these islands is the dramatic change in landscape that you will find around every cove and turn; there is always something to see or do which will both surprise and delight everyone and every taste. Spot colonies of seals on a sea safari? check. Wander on a pure white beach made of seashell? check. Wake up in a luxury glamping pod to the sound of lemurs, flamingos and gibbons? check. Shop both boutique and high street Vat free? check. explore underground war bunkers and fortifications without the crowds? check. the list is endless. each island is also unique and distinct in its own right; I implore you to visit and discover their identities and nuances for yourselves!

Rachael Kellard

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Ic o n Ic ey Journ

Liberation europe: 75th anniversary 1 2 DAY E s C o rt E D g ro u P to u r w i t h D r ro D E r i C k B A i l E Y

“soldiers, sailors and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force: You are about to embark upon the great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. the eyes of the world are upon you.”

D-Day Museum • Caen, Pegasus Bridge • Longues Sur Mer • Saint Mere Eglise • Bergen Op Zoom Antwerp • Arnhem • Berg En Dal • Hotel Hartenstein • Bastogne • Chateau Clervaux At the beginning of June 1944, the nations of the world had been engulfed in a five-year conflict the likes of which had never been seen, a conflagration that had claimed millions of lives across scores of countries. nazi germany had dominated Europe for several years, but with the assembling of the largest armada in recorded history, the tide was about to turn. 2019 marks the 75th anniversary of the Allied liberation of Europe beginning with the D-Day invasions of normandy and occupied France. Prestige holidays offers this opportunity to join an all-encompassing telling of the events that transpired before, during and after D-Day, operation Market garden and the Battle of the Bulge. this is a telling not only of the major players and the soldiers, but also of the everyday people in these occupied countries, their resistance, and the hardships endured, all whilst yearning for liberty. we are lucky enough to be joined by Dr. roderick Bailey (historian, broadcaster and bestselling author) who will bring to life the intricacies of this not so distant history.

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tour highlights • Explore the remains of hitler’s sea-defences at longues sur Mer • A chance to view the recently discovered Maisy Batteries • An audience with sophie ter horst, whose mother acted as nurse to allied airman during Market garden • stay at luxembourg’s stunning Chateau urspelt • Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Dr roderick Bailey

whAt’s inCluDED • • • • • • • •

Coach transport from london to France return flight from luxembourg to london heathrow 11 nights in good standard accommodation Daily breakfast, lunches and evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager Complimentary copy of Dr roderick Bailey’s, Forgotten Voices of D-Day

MorE details DEtAils visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y FaC T S Departure dates: 11 May 2019 Price per person: £2,979 Single supplement: £300 Max group size: 26 Travel Information: Outbound: Ferry Portsmouth to Caen. Inbound: Luxembourg to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (L, D) Board the coach at Heathrow to visit Southwick House. Continue to the D-Day museum in Portsmouth. Enjoy a private visit followed by dinner before transferring to the ferry terminal for the overnight crossing to Caen. Overnight: Ferry Day 2 (B, L, D) Take in the views of the Normandy’s coast line and beaches, where thousands of troops arrived in landing craft almost 75 years ago. After disembarking, commence our sightseeing in the area, including a visit to Caen Cathedral as well as the famous Pegasus Bridge taken by the British 6th Airborne Division during the early hours of the D-Day landings. Overnight: Caen Day 3 (B, L, D) The Longues sur Mer coastal bunkers (part of Hitler’s ‘Atlantic Wall’) are a stark reminder of the length the Nazis went to in protecting their dominance of European territories. Pay your respect at the British Cemetery before visiting the Arromanches 360 experience, reliving the 100 days of the battle in and around Normandy through an audio visual presentation. Overnight: Caen

difficulties with which the Allies were faced. Stop at Overloon Museum, which has one of the largest collections of WWII vehicles in Europe. This evening, we are joined by Marcel Hoogenboom, Manager of Hotel Erika. He will share his moving story of his interest in WWII, as well as the unique role his family’s hotel played in the war. Overnight: Berg en Dal Day 8 (B, L, D) Visit John Frost Bridge, Hotel Hartenstein and the Arnhem Oosterbeek Cemetery to pay your respects to the many fallen soldiers fighting for the freedom of not just the Netherlands, but the whole of Europe.

Day 9 (B, L, D) Transfer to the Dutch National Liberation Museum in Groesbeek. The museum is near the German border and we take the opportunity to cross and uncover the Battle of the Reichswald, part of the Allied plan to break into Nazi Germany. Fierce battles resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, not only soldiers but also civilians.

Transfer to Saint Mere Eglise, made famous in the movie The Longest Day. This village was the scene of heavy fighting between the Germans and lightly armed US airborne troops. Visit the airborne museum and the church. Continue to Saint Come du Mont, where heavy fighting took place, before driving to Maisy Batteries, an extensive network of artillery batteries which have been opened to the public.

Travelling south, briefly stop in Wageningen at Hotel de Wereld where the German Commander of the Netherlands officially surrendered on 6 May 1945. Continue to the Belgian Ardennes where the Battle of the Bulge represented an unexpected and voracious counter attack by the German army in the winter of 1944.

Cross the border into the Netherlands to the pretty town of Bergen op Zoom, to put the lesser known Battle of the Scheldt into the context of the major battles of WWII. This evening, we are joined by local historian Robert Catsburg, who explains its significance. Overnight: Bergen op Zoom Day 6 (B, L, D) The Battle of the Scheldt was concerned with the unlocking of Antwerp, and today’s travels see us visiting various sites and museums connected with this historic city and her involvement in World War 2. Overnight: Bergen op Zoom Day 7 (B, L, D) Cross to the eastern part of the Netherlands and follow the route which was taken by the land forces as part of operation Market Garden. Continue north and learn about the logistical

Day 10 (B, L, D)

B E L G I U M

Crepon 3

Overnight: Berg en Dal

Day 5 (B, L, D)

Portsmouth

Visit the house of the ter Horst family, who risked their lives taking in injured Allied soldiers and tending to their wounds.

Day 4 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Caen

London Heathrow

Arnhem Bergen Op Zoom 3 Berg 2 En Dal Antwerp

Caen/ Pegasus Bridge

Clervaux F R A N C E 50km

Day 11 (B, L, D) Transfer to Bastogne, the epicentre of the Battle of the Bulge. Caught off guard, the predominantly American soldiers suffered large casualties but held their ground at Bastogne, which ultimately sealed the fate of Hitler’s last roll of the die. Visit the Bastogne War Museum as well as Easy Company’s fox holes, offering a sombre insight into trench warfare. This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner. Overnight: Clervaux Day 12 (B, L, D) Visit the grave of one of the war’s greatest personalities, General George S. Patton. Departure.

En route, visit the American Cemetery at Margraten, one of the largest in Europe and a poignant sight to behold. Overnight: Clervaux

Words from your Guide Lecturer’ In this anniversary year, 75 years on from the normandy landings, we’ll be following in the footsteps of Dwight eisenhower’s allied armies as they fought their way across Western europe in the final months of the Second World War. This is a unique tour, and I’m really looking forward to it. What’s especially exciting for me is the journey that we’re taking, the progression from one landmark battle to the next. We begin by embarking at Portsmouth and crossing the Channel by sea, and we go ashore to visit the landing beaches and drop zones, including key targets like Pegasus Bridge, nearly 75 years to the day that the allies landed for real. We then move on to Belgium, the netherlands and Luxembourg, through the bloody battlegrounds of arnhem, the Scheldt and the ardennes, to the bitter fighting at Bastogne and finally the rhine. along the way, we’ll be visiting not only key sites but also hidden corners of the campaign, to submerge ourselves in the experiences of the soldiers, sailors and airmen who fought and died to liberate europe.

Dr. Roderick Bailey

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Moorish AndAluciA 8 dAY E s C o rt E d g ro u P to u r

Explore the dramatic cultural highlights of Andalucia, focusing on the Moorish influences of three major cities: granada, Cordoba and seville.

Frigiliana • Salobrena • Granada (Alhambra Palace) • Cordoba • Seville

new for our 2019 portfolio, this eight-day tour explores the dramatic highlights of southern Spain, focusing on the influence of Moorish culture and architecture. For eight hundred years, Andalucia stood at the crossroads between Christianity and islam. What remains today is an amalgamation of two religions and two cultures, forming something unique - and rather stunning. From architecture and culture to cuisine, this is an unforgettable blend just waiting to be explored. spend your days discovering the best granada, Cordoba and seville have to offer - as well as trips to two typical Andalucian hilltop towns, and a tour of the vast ruins of Medina Azahara. You even have the opportunity to cross the incredible Alhambra off your bucket list.

tour highlights • • • • •

Explore the Moorish influences of Andalucian culture Visit the Alhambra palace complex, perched dramatically on a hilltop guided tour of Cordoba’s iconic mosque Wander the vast ruins of Medina Azahara Enjoy authentic Andalucian cuisine

WhAt’s inCludEd • • • • • •

return flights from london gatwick to spain 7 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, three lunches and four evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

no Prestige tour is complete without indulging in delicious authentic cuisine, and, of course, wine - this eight-day adventure is sure to leave your taste buds tingling with its culinary delights.

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k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 11 Nov 2019 Price per person: £1,799 Single supplement: £200 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Malaga. Inbound: Seville to London Gatwick. Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 6 (B, L)

Arrival. Transfer to Granada. En route, stop at Frigiliana and Salobrena, two traditional Andalucian hilltop towns. The former possesses an old district inhabited by the Moors before and after the Reconquista; the latter boasts a 10th century Moorish castle.

Transfer to Seville, the capital and largest city of Andalucia, and enjoy a short orientation tour and lunch before the afternoon at leisure to see how the Moorish architecture has permeated the modern style of the city.

Overnight: Granada

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Day 2 (B, D)

Morning visit to Seville’s stunning Gothic cathedral before lunch. Afternoon visit to two UNESCO sites: the Alcazar, and the Giralda, a 12th century bell tower of the cathedral originally built as a minaret for the city’s mosque.

Full day in Granada, including a visit to the iconic Alhambra, a palace and fortress complex built on the remains of Roman fortifications. After the Reconquista, the Alhambra became the royal court of Ferdinand and Isabella, and the palaces were partially altered into the Renaissance style. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been used as a filming location for popular TV and film, including Game of Thrones. Other sights include the Palace of Charles V, a stunning Renaissance building with an inner circular patio which has no precedent, and the Generalife, the summer palace of the rulers of Granada.

Overnight: Seville

The tour concludes this evening with a special farewell dinner. Overnight: Seville Day 8 (B) Departure.

Overnight: Granada Day 3 (B) Morning walk through the Albaycin district which retains the winding streets and architecture of its Moorish past, including a visit to El Banuelo, the 11th century Arab baths. This district was the birthplace of many revolts against the caliphate, and after the Reconquista, it lost its splendour and was later depopulated. The district is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2 Seville

“Through the waters of Granada, only sighs can row.”

Overnight: Granada Day 4 (B, L) Depart to Cordoba, originally a Roman settlement but colonised by the Muslim armies in the 8th century. Explore the Great Mosque, which had a cathedral constructed within after the Reconquista. This afternoon, sit back and relax with a wine tasting and lunch, before the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight: Cordoba Day 5 (B, D) Visit the vast ruins of the 10th century Medina Azahara, once a fortified medieval palacecity which flourished for 80 years, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afternoon visit to the Alcazar, a Moorish palace that later served as the primary residence of Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon. Overnight: Cordoba

Cordoba

A n dA l u c i A

3 Granada Frigiliana Salobrena

Federico García Lorca 50 km

The Essence of Spain andalucia often acts as a synonym for Spain as a whole: a sun filled, fiesta-loving land of guitar melodies, reckless bullfighters and gipsy singers wailing sad laments. this description might sound stereotypical and overly romantic, however it carries an element of truth. Despite andalucia’s modernization, it remains a spirited and passionate place where the atmosphere and its people envelop you when you least expect. andalucia is a cultural marinade. For eight centuries, the region sat between two faiths and ideologies: christianity and Islam. ancient mosques transformed into churches, cuisine became infused with North african spices, hammams and teterias (tea houses) evoked the Moorish lifestyle, and a chain of white towns appeared which dominated the arid landscape from Granada albayzin to the hilltops of cadiz. to me, one of the most intriguing and mysterious attractions is the notion of Duende, the elusive spirit link to flamenco. the word Duende translates as a moment of heightened emotion that takes you out of yourself, and it can be soulfully evoked in andalucia if you mingle in the right places. the colours, the smells, the sounds, the people... andalucia tiene algo especial!

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Morocco ExplorEr 1 1 DAY E S C O RT E D G RO U P TO U R

Starting in Marrakech and finishing in Casablanca, uncover the extraordinary highlights of Morocco, from its bustling souks to its mountainous interior.

Marrakech • Atlas Mountains • Ait Benhaddou • Ouarzazate • Skoura Erfoud • Fes • Volubilis • Meknes • Casablanca If you’ve ever dreamed of uncovering the highlights of Morocco, now’s your chance. This eleven-day tour is designed to showcase the best the ‘gateway to Africa’ has to offer, from its bustling souks and cities to its spectacular mountainous interior - with great food and a unique cultural heritage in between. Morocco’s scenery has inspired the imagination and been used in countless film and TV productions, including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Mission Impossible and Game of Thrones, and a tour through the rugged Atlas Mountains gives you a glimpse into why this region has been selected again and again including Morocco’s own film studios at Ouarzazate. Not only will you tour the Moroccan highlights during the day, but spending eight nights in riads and kasbahs provides you the opportunity to experience Moroccan splendour in traditional accommodation. Two nights in Casablanca completes the tour, with a rather special farewell meal in the famous Rick’s Café a highlight in itself.

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TOUR hiGhliGhTS • • • • •

Explore the highlights of Morocco on this comprehensive journey Visit two UNESCO World heritage Sites: Ait Benhaddou and Volubilis Tours of Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca (and more!) Stay in an eclectic mix of riads, kasbahs and a hotel Enjoy authentic Moroccan wine and cuisine, including a meal at Rick’s Café

WhAT’S iNClUDED • • • • • •

Return flights from london Gatwick to Morocco 10 nights’ accommodation in good standard htoels Daily breakfast, five lunches and nine evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides Services of a Prestige holidays Tour Manager

FOR For MORE more DETAilS details ViSiT visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

k e y FaC t S Departure dates: 12 Nov 2019 Price per person: £1,999 Single supplement: £450 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Gatwick to Marrakech Inbound: Casablanca to London Gatwick Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO U R I T I N E R A RY Day 1 (D)

Day 8 (B, D)

Arrival. Short orientation walking tour before a welcome drink and dinner.

Day trip to the extensive Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and often considered the capital of ancient Mauretania. The city had a number of monumental public buildings, and its prosperity was primarily from olive growing. Volubilis fell to local tribes in the late 3rd century and was never retaken by Rome due to its remoteness.

Overnight: Marrakech Day 2 (B, L, D) Spend a full day touring Marrakech, seeing its main sights including the iconic Koutoubia mosque, often symbolising Marrakech, the Bahia Palace, intended to be the greatest palace of its time, and a visit to the souks and the bustling main square.

Overnight: Fes Day 9 (B, D) Depart to Casablanca. En route, visit Meknes for a walking tour of its main sites and time for lunch.

Overnight: Marrakech Day 3 (B, L) Second day in Marrakech, exploring some of the city’s lesser known gems, including the 16th century Saadian Tombs, the Ben Youssef Madrasa (the largest Islamic college in Morocco), and the ruins of the 16th century El Badi Palace, a lavish display of some of the best craftsmanship of the Saadian period. Overnight: Marrakech Day 4 (B, L, D) Depart through the scenic Atlas Mountains, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ait Benhaddou, featured in popular film and TV including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Continue to Ouarzazate, the ‘doors of the desert’, and visit its studios, which were used in Lawrence of Arabia - and more.

Overnight: Casablanca Day 10 (B, D) Full day exploring Casablanca’s main sites, including the stunning Hassan II Mosque, situated on a promontory on the Atlantic Ocean and the largest mosque in Morocco. Tonight, enjoy a rather special farewell meal at the famous Rick’s Café, designed to recreate the bar made famous by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in the 1942 movie classic named after the city. Overnight: Casablanca

Fes

3 Meknes

Casablanca

Day 11 (B) Departure.

M O RO C C O

3 Marrakech

Overnight: Skoura Day 5 (B, L, D)

“If Aphrodite chills at home in Cyprus for most of the year, then Fez must be the goddess’s playground.”

Continue to Erfoud, an oasis in the Sahara Desert, via Todgha Gorge, a series of stunning canyons in the Atlas Mountains.

raquel Cepeda

Overnight: Erfoud

Atlas Mountains Ait Benhaddou

Erfoud

1 Skoura

Ouarzazate

100km

Day 6 (B, L, D) Today sees a long journey of approx. 6 hours departing to Fes. Drive through the great oasis of Rachdia and enjoy lunch in Midelt. The journey is broken up further with a coffee stop in Ifran. In Fes, check-in and enjoy dinner. Overnight: Fes Day 7 (B, D) Spend a full day in Fes, exploring its souks, medersas and foundouks, seeing its city walls, and soaking in the atmosphere. Overnight: Fes

The Mosque on the Water “I wish Casablanca to be endowed with a large, fine building of which it can be proud until the end of time... I want to build this mosque on the water, because God’s throne is on the water. therefore, the faithful who go there to pray, to praise the creator on firm soil, can contemplate God’s sky and ocean.” - Hassan II the rather impressive Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is the largest mosque in Morocco, the second largest in africa, and the fifth largest in the world. Its minaret is the word’s tallest at 689 ft. the mosque stands on a promontory looking over the atlantic Ocean, allowing worshippers to pray over the sea. the mosque also boasts a library said to be the “most comprehensive in the Islamic world”. the flamboyant construction commemorates the former king’s 60th birthday, and showcases the very best of Moroccan craftsmanship: hand-carved stone and wood, intricate marble flooring and inlay and gilded cedar ceilings. this is a feast for the senses and an exquisite, breath-taking landmark in a city inseparable from the 1942 film of the same name.

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Jordan ExplorEr 1 0 DAY E s c o rt E D g ro u P to u r

Explore the sweeping red backdrops of Jordan, the land that captivated t.E. lawrence.

Amman • Umm Qais • Jerash • Al Kharaneh • Qasr Amra • Qasr Al-Azraq • Kerak • Petra Wadi Rum • Madaba • Dead Sea the iconic image of Jordan is that of the monumental architecture at Petra, described by Burgon in the 19th century as a “rose-red city, half as old as time”. Yet Petra is not the only gem Jordan has to offer. often viewed as a haven in an area of conflict, positioned at the crossroads between Asia, Africa and Europe, Jordan is characterised by its welcoming locals, a plethora of World heritage sites, and stunning desert landscapes. this tour will uncover Jordan’s rich heritage, allowing you to explore various aspects of its archaeological remains, from the Nabateans and romans, through to early islam and the crusades. You will explore the greco-roman ruins of Jerash, the ‘Pompeii of the East’, and marvel at the crusader castle, Kerak, as well as spotting the traces of early christianity in Madaba and enjoying a dip in the Dead sea. the tour will uncover Jordan from north to south, taking you along the King’s highway, the ancient trading route, all the way to the striking landscape of Wadi rum; a day trip to the desert castles of the east completes this once in a lifetime tour.

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tour highlights • • • • •

spend a full day at Petra, the monumental Nabatean city Visit Jerash, ‘Pompeii of the East’ Explore the ancient and modern parts of the capital, Amman Float in the Dead sea Enjoy a 4x4 tour in the enchanting Wadi rum landscape

WhAt’s iNcluDED • • • • • •

return flights from london heathrow to Amman 9 nights in good standard accommodation Daily breakfast, three lunches and eight evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y FAc t S Departure dates: 10 Sep 2019 Price per person: £2,199 Single supplement: £375 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Amman Inbound: Amman to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

To U R i T i N E R A Ry Day 1 (D)

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Arrival. Transfer to the hotel in Amman for dinner and overnight. Amman’s earliest settlement was Neolithic, but the city itself was once known as Philadelphia, a city of the Decapolis, a group of ten city-states in the Middle East linked together by their Hellenistic origins and culture.

This morning, explore Beida (‘little Petra’), a smaller Nabatean site renowned for one of its surviving frescoes. Continue to the desert landscape of Wadi Rum for a 4x4 tour until sunset. Drink a cup of traditional Bedouin tea before transferring to your desert ‘camp’. A highlight in itself, stay in the camp’s luxury ‘Martian Dome’ with all the amenities of a hotel.

Overnight: Amman Day 2 (B, D) Visit the ruins of Amman’s Roman theatre, the Citadel, and the Umayyad palace before time at leisure for self-exploration. This evening, enjoy a wine-tasting experience and welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant. Overnight: Amman Day 3 (B, D) Today, visit two more cities which were once part of the Decapolis. Depart to Hellenistic city Um Qais, enjoying its spectacular views over the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee. Proceed to the Greco-Roman city of Jerash, the ‘Pompeii of the East’, to explore its monumental remains and iconic oval forum. Despite being part of the Decapolis, both cities have extraordinary differences, and here we see the contrast between the black basalt construction of Um Qais, and the Roman baroque architectural flourishes of Jerash.

Overnight: Wadi Rum Day 8 (B, L) En route to the Dead Sea, stop at Madaba, the ‘city of mosaics’. Tour the archaeological park, and visit a school for the restoration and conservation of ancient mosaics. Continue to Mount Nebo, one of Jordan’s holiest sites, featuring ruins from the 4th to the 7th century. Overnight: Dead Sea Day 9 (B, D)

Umm Qais

Enjoy time at leisure, floating in the Dead Sea or making use of the hotel’s spa facilities. Afternoon transfer to Amman for a rather special farewell dinner.

5 Amman 1 Dead Sea

Overnight: Amman

Kerak

Day 10 (B)

j o R dA n

I S R A E L

Departure.

Overnight: Amman

Jerash

Day 4 (B, L, D) Visit the east of Jordan, exploring some of its lesser known but equally stunning desert castles on a full-day loop, to admire the architecture of the Umayyads and their extraordinary frescoes. Overnight: Amman

“Jordan has a strange, haunting beauty and a sense of timelessness. Dotted with the ruins of empires once great, it is the last resort of yesterday in the world of tomorrow. i love every inch of it.” king Hussein

Day 5 (B, D) Depart through the meandering King’s Highway, once part of the Silk Road and still bearing the marks of ancient use. The journey takes you via Wadi Mujib, a deep valley offering one of Jordan’s most breath-taking views. Stop at Kerak to visit its Crusader castle. Continue to Petra for dinner and overnight. Overnight: Petra Day 6 (B, D) Full day at the Nabatean city of Petra, the most iconic site in Jordan that has captured the imagination of countless writers and visitors. See the treasury and learn about the Nabatean people who occupied Jordan and made Petra their capital before they were annexed by the Romans.

2 Petra

1 Wadi Rum 50km

Petra: Wonder of the World the nabateans were an Arab people who inhabited northern Arabia and the southern Levant; it is the iconic city of Petra that symbolises the nabateans like nothing else. Settled as early as 9,000 Bc, Petra is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, and is featured on many a bucket list. the city became the capital of the nabatean kingdom in the 4th century Bc. Petra was later annexed by the romans and continued to thrive until an earthquake in 363 AD destroyed much of the city. Several churches were constructed by the Byzantines, but the city continued to decline. By the middle of the 7th century, Petra was largely deserted and became lost to all but the local Bedouin. Petra was ‘rediscovered’ in 1812 by Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, who adopted Arabian costume and an Arabic name throughout his travels in Syria to hide his european identity. “Whether or not I have discovered the remains of the capital of Arabia Petraea, I leave to the decision of greek scholars.” - Johann Ludwig Burckhardt t.e. Lawrence later visited Petra during his time in Jordan, including leading a revolt of Arabs against the Ottoman regime. Petra was designated a UneScO World Heritage Site in 1985.

Overnight: Petra

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Ic o n Ic ey Journ

Lawrence of arabia’s war 1 0 DAY E s c o rt E D g ro u P to u r W i t h D r N E i l FAu l k N E r

Delve into the history of the Arab revolt, following in the footsteps of t.E. lawrence.

Amman • Umm el-Jimal • Shobek • Petra • Aqaba Wadi Rum • Kerak • Dead Sea the sweeping red backdrops of Jordan have captured the imagination of countless people, with the iconic photo of Petra’s treasury ubiquitous in any travel publication. Peppered with crusader castles and extensive roman ruins, few people choose to venture off the tourist trail. this is an opportunity to do so, allowing you to follow in the footsteps of t.E. lawrence. Accompanied by Dr Neil Faulkner, military archaeologist, director of the great Arab revolt Project, and author of Lawrence of Arabia’s War: The Arabs, the British and the remaking of the Middle East in WWI, delve into the history of the Arab revolt. Armed with your copy of Seven Pillars of Wisdom, trace lawrence’s journey through his own words. Visit forts, battlefields and ruined cities, and uncover their lengthy stories from the romans to the crusades.

tour highlights • • • • •

Full day visit to Petra, one of the ‘wonders of the world’ travel to lesser-known sites for a fully immersive journey Follow in the footsteps of t.E. lawrence during the Arab revolt 4x4 tours into Wadi rum, the filming location of Lawrence of Arabia Exclusive insights from guide lecturer Dr Neil Faulkner

WhAt’s iNcluDED • • • • • • •

return flights from london heathrow to Amman 9 nights in good standard accommodation Daily breakfast, eight lunches and six evening meals All excursions, entrance fees and visa copies of Lawrence of Arabia’s War and Seven Pillars of Wisdom All overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

of course, no journey to Jordan would be complete without a visit to the monumental Nabatean ruins of Petra, and this tour provides you ample time to explore this “rose-red city, half as old as time”.

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MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y FAc t S Departure dates: 2 Nov 2019 Price per person: £2,899 Single supplement: £400 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Amman. Inbound: Amman to London Heathrow. Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO u R i T i n e R A Ry Day 1 (D) Arrival. Transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Overnight: Amman Day 2 (B, L, D) An introduction to the background of the Arab Revolt.

Depart to Wadi Rum to explore the desert landscape, where much of David Lean’s Lawrence of Arabia was filmed. The Mudawwara Redoubts were attacked repeatedly by Anglo-Arab forces and finally captured in August 1918. This evening, transfer to your luxury desert ‘camp’ for dinner and overnight. Overnight: Wadi Rum

This morning, visit Amman’s Railway Museum, a converted station and once part of the Hijaz Railway. Continue to Qasr Al-Azraq, a large fortress in eastern Jordan and the base of T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt.

Day 7 (B, L, D)

This afternoon, visit the ruins of the Roman and Byzantine frontier town Umm el-Jimal, where Lawrence staged his first attack on the Ottomanheld Damascus.

Overnight: Wadi Rum

Today, use off-road vehicles to explore three Ottoman counterinsurgency sites: a fortified station, a hilltop redoubt, and a regional command-and-control centre.

Overnight: Amman Day 3 (B, L) Visit the 16th century Al-Qatrana Ottoman fort and early 20th century Ottoman station south of Amman. Continue to the site of the Battle of Tafila, where the Allied and Arab forces defeated the 1,000-strong Ottoman army. This afternoon, travel along the King’s Highway to explore the 12th century Shobek Crusader Castle.

Day 8 (B, L, D) Our third and final day on the railway war focuses on one particular military operation in April 1918, tracking the detailed description in Seven Pillars of Wisdom. Visit Tooth Hill Camp, where Lawrence stayed in December 1917 and April 1918. Continue to Tel Shahm Fort and Siddons Ridge, attacked by Arab irregulars and British Special Forces in April 1918.

Jerash

2 Amman

Overnight: Wadi Rum Day 9 (B, L)

Overnight: Petra

En route to the Dead Sea for an evening of relaxation, stop at Kerak’s Crusader castle, a 12th century fort, followed by Machaerus fortified palace and zealot stronghold.

Day 4 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Dead Sea

Spend a full day at the Nabatean city of Petra, the most iconic site in Jordan that has captured the imagination of countless writers and visitors, including Lawrence himself.

Day 10 (B) Departure.

1 Dead Sea Kerak j o R dA n

I S R A E L

2 Petra E g y p t

Aqaba 1

Overnight: Petra

3 Wadi Rum 50km

Day 5 (B, L) Depart to the site of the Battle of Abu al-Lissan, where Lawrence participated in a charge of 450 cavalry and camel-men. Continue to Kithara Fort, one of three guarding the Wadi Itm on the road to Aqaba. After lunch, visit the main historic monuments in Aqaba. Its fortress saw a great victory during the Arab Revolt, and Lawrence travelled from here to Cairo to inform General Allenby; its capture allowed the British to supply the Arab forces. Overnight: Aqaba Day 6 (B, L, D) The first of three days looking at the railway war between the Ottoman garrison and counterinsurgency forces on one side, and the Arab guerrilla and British special-forces operations on the other.

Words from your Guide Lecturer Jordan lies at the heart of the modern Middle east, yet has remained stable, friendly, and welcoming. It is located where Bedouin nomad interacts with Levantine peasant, where rival civilisations and empires have clashed over thousands of years. the result is a landscape rich in both battlefields, fortifications, and military history, and also in the architectural monuments of diverse past cultures. this tour explores four periods of conflict and change - under the roman and Byzantine empires, at the time of the crusades, during Lawrence of Arabia’s campaigns in 1916-18, and in the century since the Western powers imposed a ‘peace to end all peace’ at the end of the First World War. the tour is led by Dr Neil Faulkner FSA, who has been travelling to the Middle east for 20 years, was the joint director of the great Arab revolt Project, and is the author, among many other books, of Lawrence of Arabia’s War. this will ensure, in addition to visits to Jordan’s classic archaeological sites, exclusive access to numerous remote desert locations to see the fortified stations, hilltop redoubts, and abandoned campsites of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’s War’. With Lawrence’s great memoir Seven Pillars of Wisdom in hand, we will track the raids, ambushes, and battles in a way that has never previously been possible.

Dr Neil Faulkner

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CULTUR

Iran: a PersIan sPrIng 1 5 daY E s c o rt E d g ro u P to u r w i t h J o h n o s B o r n E

iran is a beguiling country and home to unique historical and archaeological sites, along with some of the most welcoming locals you could ever meet.

Shiraz • Persepolis • Kerman • Rayan • Mahan Yazd • Meybod • Abyaneh • Isfahan iran has had long and distinctive periods of civilization: the era of cyrus, darius and Xerxes, the Persian kings who made such an impact upon Biblical and classical greek history; the Parthians and sassanians, who earned the continued respect of the mighty roman empire; the successive dynasties who ruled after the islamic conquest in 641 ad, including the Mongols, tamberlaine and shah abbas, who turned Isfahan into a brilliant capital city; and, finally, the monarchies of the 19th and 20th century, which has seen the overthrow of the Qajar and the Pahlavi dynasties, and the resurgence of shia islam as a political force. Our tour will start in Shiraz and finish in Isfahan. We visit the palace of the great Kings destroyed by alexander the great at Persepolis, where the magnificent ruins include finely sculptured reliefs, and their spectacular tombs hewn into the cliffs nearby at naqsh-e-rustam. we stay in the lovely city of shiraz, famous for its gardens and its lyric poets, Hafiz and Saadi, buried there. We travel to Kerman and on to the desert city of Yazd, with its fine mosque, and the Zoroastrian fire temple and ‘towers of silence’ outside Yazd. we spend three full days in isfahan, the city which is ‘half the world’, according to the iranians, to enjoy the splendour of its tiled mosques and painted palaces, and the lively, colourful bazaars, with their traditional trades and crafts.

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tour highlights • Explore the heartland of Persian culture, shiraz • Marvel at ancient relics, colourful mosques and atmospheric bazaars • Visit the desert city of Yazd with its stunning mosque • tour of one of the world’s greatest archaelogical sites, Persepolis • Exclusive insights from guide lecturer John osborne

what’s includEd • • • • •

return flight from london heathrow to shiraz via istanbul 14 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels daily breakfast, lunch and evening meal all excursions and entrance fees (please note: visa not included) all overseas transport and English-speaking guides

MorE details dEtails visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y FAc t S Departure dates: 11 Apr 2019 Price per person: £3,838 Single supplement: £620 Max group size: 26 Flight Information: Outbound: Heathrow to Shiraz via Istanbul. Inbound: Shiraz to Heathrow via Istanbul. Regional departures may be available upon request.

To u R i T i N E R A RY Day 1 (D) Arrival. Transfer to the hotel.

Day 9 (B, L, D) Transfer to the small town of Meybod, to visit its pottery factory, the old citadel, and a traditional pigeon tower.

Overnight: Shiraz Day 2 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Yazd

Enjoy some much needed rest time before enjoying your first glimpse of Shiraz in the afternoon.

Day 10 (B, L, D) A whole day’s drive to isfahan via Nain to visit the early Friday Mosque and the traditional Pirnia House.

Overnight: Shiraz Day 3 (B, L, D) Visit three of Shiraz’s famous gardens, including the tombs of Saadi and Hafez and the Baghe-Eram, before exploring the citadel, colourful bazaar, the Narenjestan and the fine Nasir-olMolk mosque and bath house, which now houses an interesting ethnographic museum. Overnight: Shiraz Day 4 (B, L, D) Full day excursion to visit the substantial remains of the great palace of the Persian kings at Persepolis and their royal tombs at Naqshe-Rustam. Lunch nearby before looking at the Sassanian reliefs on the rocks. Overnight: Shiraz

Overnight: Isfahan Day 11 (B, L, D) Spend the next four days exploring the treasures of isfahan, including the Friday mosque, the Armenian Cathedral and Museum and an array of 17th century buildings from the period of the Savafid monarchy. See impressive bridges, the palace of Chehel Situn and Ali Kapu, the imam and Sheikh Lotfullah Mosques, and the great bazaar. There is also ample time for independent exploration. During our time in isfahan, take a day to visit the traditional mountain village of Abyaneh and the small town of Natana. Overnight: Isfahan Day 12 (B,L, D)

Day 5 (B, L, D) Make the long drive across the desert to Kerman, stopping at the Sassanian Palace at Sarvestan and the ancient Friday mosque in Neiriz.

As above. Overnight: Isfahan Day 13 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Kerman

As above.

Day 6 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Isfahan

Visit the well-preserved ruins of the old citadel of Rayan and continue to the shrine of Nimatollah at Mahan, a place of great calm and beauty along with the lovely gardens of Shehzadeh.

Day 14 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Kerman

Day 15 (B)

Day 7 (B, L, D)

Departure.

Morning visit to the Friday mosque in Kerman, followed by a walk through its lively bazaar. Continue to Yazd, stopping en route at the restored Zeir-o-Din caravanserai.

As above.

Yazd

Overnight: Isfahan

2 Kerman

Shiraz

200km

Rome’s Greatest Rivals

Overnight: Yazd Day 8 (B, L, D) Walk through the lanes of the old city in Yazd and visit the Friday mosque and the so-called ‘Alexander’s Prison’. See the Zoroastrian temple and the ‘Towers of Silence’, a Hennah factory, and the water museum. Overnight: Yazd

I R A N

Abyaneh isfahan 5 Meybod

the Sassanian empire was the last kingdom in Persia before the rise of Islam, ruling between the 3rd and 7th centuries AD. One of the leading world powers, they were arch-rivals of rome in late antiquity for over 400 years. the Sassanian empire is widely regarded as the most significant of Iran’s historical periods. Much of what is now regarded as Islamic culture in art, architecture and music throughout the world was directly influenced by the Sassanids. the last of the Sassanid-Byzantine wars during the 7th century, which included the Siege of constantinople in 626, resulted in both sides exhausting their human and material resources. In turn, the Sassanians were vulnerable to the emergence of the Islamic rashidun caliphate, whose forces invaded both empires shortly after, conquering Persia and many of Byzantium’s territories in the Middle east and north Africa.

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AL N AT U R Rs WoNde

China: The Wild Middle KingdoM 1 5 daY E s C o rt E d g ro u P to u r

an in-depth discovery of the mysterious Middle Kingdom. Explore the history, impressive engineering feats and vast national parks that make up the living juxtaposition that is China

Beijing • Mutianyu • Xi’an • The Terracotta Warriors • Taiping National Park • Chongqing Zhangjiajie Forest Park • Shanghai the Chinese call their home Zhongguo; it literally translates as the ‘Middle Kingdom’. a vast land with a population of roughly 1.3 billion people, China is home to one of the world’s oldest civilisations, with human habitation dating back over 1.2 million years. the testaments to the ingenuity and greatness of the achievements of the Chinese can be found in all corners of their world, from the vast undertaking that is the great Wall, stretching almost fifteen thousand miles, to the incredible funerary display that is the terracotta Warriors, thousands of individually carved soldiers to guard the Emperor Qin shi huang in the after realm. in partnership with this rich and compelling history, we invite our group to explore some of the most impressive landscapes and national parks China has to offer. standing in the midst of colossal sandstone monoliths in Zhangjiajie Forest Park is a simply unforgettable experience, as is the chance to watch the gorges go by and the stars at night on a Yangtze river cruise. The tour finishes in Shanghai, a showpiece of China’s recently booming economy and a wonder of the modern world.

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tour highlights • stroll through the gardens of Beijing’s imperial Forbidden City • Visit a lesser known section of the great Wall of China, arguably the world’s most impressive engineering feat • Enter the tomb of Emperor Qin shi huang and walk amongst the terracotta Warriors • Cruise down the Yangtze river for three days, passing through impressive gorges • Explore the breath-taking walks along rivers and atop mountains in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a real garden of Eden

What’s iNCludEd • • • • • •

return flights from london heathrow to China 13 nights in good standard accommodation daily breakfast, twelve lunches and twelve evening meals all excursions and entrance fees all overseas transport and English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

MorE details dEtails visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 20 Oct 2019 Price per person: £4,795 Single supplement: £700 Max group size: 20 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Beijing Inbound: Shanghai to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO u R i T i N E R A RY Day 1 Overnight: Flight

in the afternoon, take a shore excursion to visit the impressive Shibaozhai Pagoda, before returning to the vessel for the Captain’s Welcome Dinner.

Day 2 (D)

Overnight: Yangtze River

Arrival. Transfer to the hotel for an early-check in and a day at leisure. Optional afternoon visits to the Temple of Heaven Park and the Summer Palace.

Day 9 (B, L, D)

Overnight flight from London Heathrow.

Overnight: Beijing Day 3 (B, L, D) Walking tour of Tiananmen Square, seeing the main sights including the Northern Gate and the Great Hall of the People. Discover the Forbidden City, seat of the dragon-throned emperor for over 600 years, followed by a walk through Jingshan Park.

Continue cruising down the scenic Yangtze River, taking shore excursions to the White Emperor City and the Goddess Stream. Explore the ‘Lesser Three Gorges’, each offering their own distinct charm. Overnight: Yangtze River

Day 4 (B, L, D) One cannot visit China without appreciating Qang-Qeng (colloquially known as the Great Wall of China). Spend a full day visiting one of the lesser known regions of the mega structure, Mutianyu. Overnight: Beijing Day 5 (B, L, D)

After an early morning visit to the Three Gorges Dam, an incredible engineering feat, continue to downtown Yichang.

On arrival at Zhangjiajie, transfer to the hotel before visiting the breath-taking forest park for a full day, including the world’s tallest elevator, the park’s colossal stones, and the world’s longest and highest glass bridge.

Return to the National Park for a relaxed morning stroll along Suo Stream. Afternoon at leisure before transferring to Zhangjiajie airport for flights to Shanghai.

Day 6 (B, L) Full day exploring the natural wonders of Xi’an’s nearby national park, Taiping. The forest park houses over 30 species that fall under national protection, such as golden snub-nosed monkeys, takins, and syrmaticus Mikado.

Xian 2 Chongqing

3 NiGHTS YANGTZEE RiVER CRuiSE

3 Shanghai

1 1 Zhangjiajie

THREE GORGES DAM 1 NiGHT SLEEPER TRAiN

400km

Day 11 (B, L, D)

Day 12 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Xi’an

Overnight: Soft-Sleeper Train

Overnight: Zhangjiajie

Catch the bullet train to Xi’an. Afternoon visit to the Terracotta Warriors - a testament to mankind’s artistic ingenuity.

GREAT WALL OF CHiNA

Day 10 (B, L, D)

From here, take an overnight train to Zhangjiajie City in a 1st class soft-sleeper cabin.

Overnight: Beijing

Beijing

Overnight: Shanghai

Day 13 (B, L, D) Take in all the main sites of Shanghai, including a walk along the Bund, a visit to the World Financial Centre (The Bottle-Opener), followed by an afternoon visit to the Yu Garden for some exploration and shopping. Afternoon at leisure before a special farewell dinner. Overnight: Shanghai Day 14 (B, L, D) Day at leisure to explore, relax or shop. Optional visit to the famous Water Town in the morning. Overnight: Shanghai Day 15 (B) Departure.

Overnight: Xi’an Day 7 (B, L, D) Take the bullet train to Chongqing. On arrival, take a whistle-stop tour of the main sights, including the ancient quarter of Ciqikou, and the incredibly scenic Hong Ya Dong. After dinner, embark on-board for the beginning of the Yangtze River cruise Overnight: Yangtze River Day 8 (B, L, D) Enjoy a leisurely morning on board our cruise ship as we meander down the legendary Yangtze.

Words from your Tour Designer around the last months of 2011 and the beginning of 2012, I began to become a bit of a Sinophile (a lover of chinese culture). I was attending evening classes in the Mandarin language and had become a little obsessed with watching a programme on the television called ‘Wild china’. On this programme was a place that I had never heard of called Zhangjiajie. translating as the ‘Zhang Family Homeland’ and having the honour of being china’s first national Park, I became desperate to visit this natural wonder. It is a marvel of hundreds of limestone columns that stretch from the dense forest floor into the clouds above, complimented by an abundance of strange and wonderful wildlife. I began to save, and in 2012 I got to visit this fascinating land and the memories of my visit will stay with me my whole life. china is often synonymous with pollution; however the air at Zhangjiajie is so crisp and fresh, you would bottle it if you could. and as for the views, well, you’ll just have to experience that yourself, as words do this garden of eden very little in the way of justice. Zhangjiajie should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Alexander Oliver OR call CALL Prestige PreStIge Holidays HOLIDayS on On 01425 480 600 or

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CULTUR

Royal Palaces of south east asia 1 6 DAY E s c o rt E D g ro u P to u r w i t h DAV i D B rot h E r s o n

circumnavigate three of the most stunning countries that south-East Asia has to offer. together we unearth the mysteries of these ancient kingdoms, their characters, and the palaces that they built.

Hanoi • Thang Long Citadel • Lan Ha Bay • Hue • Forbidden Purple City • Hoi An • Siem Reap Ankor Wat • Ankor Thom • Bayon • Luang Prabang • Khuang Si Waterfalls Very few areas of the world are still as shrouded in mystery and intrigue as the countries of south-East Asia. Despite a huge increase of tourism over the last few decades, the lands of Vietnam, cambodia and laos still cannot fail to entice those of an explorer’s nature to come and try to unearth the essence of what makes this world so alluring. south-East Asia has played host to some of the world’s most aloof and captivating civilizations, from the champa to the Khmer, from lan Xang kingdom to the tran dynasty.

tour highlights

Visit the hub of these cultures, both ancient and modern, and pry into the character of these people. A journey across the indochina Peninsula, starting from hanoi (the 1,000 year-old capital of Vietnam) to the natural wonder of lan ha Bay (a lesser visited part of Halong Bay), from the magnificent temples of Ankor in cambodia to the royal palaces of luang Prabang in laos.

• • • • • •

• Experience hanoi’s bustling streets, one of Asia’s most atmospheric capitals • Visit the royal monuments of hue • Discover luang Prabang’s royal and most beautiful temples • Marvel at the incredible architecture of the temples of Angkor • Exclusive insights from guide lecturer David Brotherson

whAt’s incluDED return flights from london heathrow to hanoi 13 nights in good standard accommodation Daily breakfast, seven lunches and seven evening meals All excursions and entrance fees All overseas transport with English-speaking guides services of a Prestige holidays tour Manager

Expertly guided by David Brotherson we are offered his insights into the old kingdoms of south-East Asia, and also an introduction to a plethora of cultural highlights.

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MorE details DEtAils visit Visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk For more

k e y Fac t S Departure dates: 10 Nov 2019 Price per person: £4,579 Single supplement: £700 Max group size: 20 Flight Information: Outbound: London Heathrow to Hanoi Inbound: Hanoi to London Heathrow Regional departures may be available upon request.

TO u R I T I N E R A Ry Day 1

Day 9 (B, D)

Day 15 (B)

Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Hanoi

Drive through the breath-taking countryside and discover My Son Sanctuary. Afternoon at leisure followed by flights to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Visit a local village before arriving at Khuang Si waterfalls. Departure.

Overnight: Flight Day 2 (B, L, D)

Overnight: Hoi An

Arrival. Hanoi is a bustling city of a thousand years of Day 10 (B, L) history. Explore the Old Quarter and stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, taking in the day-to-day life of the Visit the temples of the Angkor complex in people. chronological order from 9th to 11th century. Overnight: Hanoi

Overnight: Siem Reap

Day 3 (B)

Day 11 (B, D)

Morning visit to the National Museum of Vietnam History, a huge collection of artefacts and exhibitions. Enjoy a walking tour of its most stunning buildings, including the Hanoi Opera House. This afternoon, visit President Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the 11th century Temple of Literature.

Today is dedicated to the most beautiful temples of the Angkor complex, built from the 12th to 13th century, including the famous Angkor Wat. Relax in the evening with an Apsara performance.

Overnight: Hanoi

Overnight: Flight Day 16 Arrival at London Heathrow.

Overnight: Siem Reap Day 12 (B, D) Morning visit to the Angkor National Museum. Continue to Wat Bo before transferring to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang.

Day 4 (B, L, D)

Cruise around the scenic Lan Ha Bay. Explore astonishing hidden lagoons, floating villages, and even Overnight: Luang Prabang a chance to swim at the foot of verdant stone giants. Day 13 (B, L) Overnight: Lan Ha Bay Presentation from a former uNESCO consultant on Day 5 (B, L) the historical and architectural background of Luang Slowly cruise back through the majestic karst peeks Prabang before visiting its National Mueum and before returning to Hanoi. After some free time in some of its most beautiful temples. the city, board the overnight sleeper train to Hue. Overnight: Luang Prabang Overnight: Train Day 14 (B, L) Day 6 (B, D) Embark on the Mekong Kingdom Cruise, stopping Embark upon a boat trip on the Perfume River, at the remote island shrine of Wat Done Khoun a place of inspiration for numerous Vietnamese Nelemith. Today also includes a visit to the famous writers, musicians and artists. Visit the Thien Mu Pak Ou Caves. pagoda, Hue’s symbolic and best preserved religious Overnight: Luang Prabang monument. This afternoon, discover the Imperial City of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Hanoi

1 Lan Ha Bay

Luang Prabang L AO S

3 Hue 1 Hoi An

T H A I L A N D

Siem Reap C O L U M B I A V I E T N A M

100km

Overnight: Hue Day 7 (B, L)

Words from your Guide Lecturer

Visit the Royal tomb of Emperor Ming Man, followed by a stop at the Tu Hieu pagoda, a Confucian temple. Afternoon visit to Thuy Bieu village. Overnight: Hue Day 8 (B, D) Morning drive to Hoi An, passing over the panoramic Hai Van Pass. Stop en-route in Danang to visit the Cham Museum. This afternoon, explore of the streets of ancient Hoi An and sharpen your culinary skills during a private cookery class. Overnight: Hue

come and experience the cultural heritage of Southeast asia as we explore the lands of the former French Protectorate of Indochina. Join us as we cover more than 1000 years of history and take in the most spectacular temples and palaces in asia, all recognised as UNeScO World Heritage Sites. One of the world’s most culturally diverse regions, you will love the people of the timeless lands of Indochina. In cambodia we see angkor Wat, truly one of the wonders of the world. Staggering in scale, the massive temple complex of angkor will astound you, and must be seen to be believed.Vietnam is an utter delight, from the bustling colonial precincts of Hanoi to the idyllic streets of the port town Hoi an, as are the Imperial citadel of Hue and the ancient cham shrines of My Son. We finish up along the banks of the Mekong in the highlands of Laos, where we stroll around the enchanting streets of Luang Prabang. I’ve lived and worked in cambodia for the best part of a decade, a chapter of my life that began with a holiday to angkor. I’m confident you’ll find this trip a life changing experience too.

David Brotherson OR call CALL Prestige PreStIge Holidays HOLIDayS on ON 01425 480 600 or

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#Worldrediscovered

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KeeP In ToucH loyalty scHeme

our loyalty scheme is having a makeover. We want to show our appreciation to the number of guests who travel with us time and time again, which is why we’re introducing the Prestige Passport. Please ask our team for more information and how to apply for yours.

PHoto comPetition

We love looking at our clients’ photos. For this reason, every tour departure has its own competition with the chance to win a £50 voucher of your choice. Details of the competition will be sent in your tour programmes.

new website

our brand new escorted tours website is coming soon. Watch this space!

mailing list

To stay up-to-date with any news, discounts or special offers, make sure you’ve signed up to our mailing list. We send updates to your inbox no more than once a week, and we promise we won’t overload you.

travel lounge

our Travel lounge on ringwood High Street is open. If you’re local or travelling through the area, please pop in for a cup of tea or coffee, and our team will offer you a wealth of knowledge to ensure your holiday experience not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

MeeT THe TeaM lee Hamilton

alexander oliver

della avis-Harries

ellie sPawton

Escorted Tours Manager lee joined Prestige Holidays in 2014 and brings with him almost 18 years’ experience in the travel industry. He is passionate about travel and likes to combine this where possible with his love of wildlife. He has in-depth knowledge of south-east asia, australia, central america, east africa and europe.

Escorted Tours Consultant Della joined in november 2014. She has a varied and diverse travel background from coach touring holidays, cruise consultant, group tour operations, escorting, plus sales and marketing. She has travelled extensively within europe (on various cruise ships) and visited new Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, canada, Mexico, the caribbean and the u.S.a.

Escorted Tours Consultant alexander studied ancient History at the university of exeter and has worked most of his career in the travel industry. He has travelled all over europe, china, south-east asia and australasia. alex spent a year living and working in Greece on the island of Santorini.

Escorted Tours Consultant ellie joined Prestige Holidays in 2017 after graduating with a degree in archaeology and History from the university of Southampton, with focus on roman urbanism in the Middle east. She has excavated at sites in rome and Israel, and specialises in travel to the Middle east and north africa.

or call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480 600

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Explore, Dream, Discover... 82

For more details visit www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk

est. 1989

PRESTIGE Your holiday. our speciality.

Holidays within this brochure are operated by atkins Travel limited trading as ‘Prestige Holidays’, a fully bonded tour operator. Our flight based holidays provide full financial protection by way of our Air Travel organiser’s licence number (aTol) 2509 issued by the civil aviation authority, Gatwick airport South, West Sussex, rH6 0Yr, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email:claims@caa.co.uk. When you buy an ATOL protected flight inclusive tour from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. For more information about aTol go to: www.caa. co.uk. atkins Travel ltd is a member of aBTa, where a flight is not included you are protected by means of a bond held by aBTa, The Travel association, 30 Park Street, london, SE1 9EQ, www.abta.com. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the caa or aBTa will ensure you are not stranded abroad or will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. The contact details for atkins Travel limited are 1 Fridays court, High Street, ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 1JA (‘the Company’s Office’), Email: tours@ prestigeholidays.co.uk. Telephone: 01425 480 600. our office hours are 09:00 – 17:30 weekdays, 09:00 – 17:00 on Saturdays. For a copy of our full Terms and conditions please ask prior to booking. all prices are based on two people sharing a hotel room. For cruise bookings the fare is based on the lowest cabins category and will increase for higher grades and depending on your chosen flights. Single rooms may be capacity restricted and a supplement will apply – please call for rates. Prices, availability and inclusions are correct at the time of going to press and can be changed at any time, without notice, prior to booking. BOOKING PROCEDURE a completed booking form is required. our standard deposit is £350.00 per person, however, on occasions we may require a higher or a lower amount, and this will be advised at the time of booking. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. • Cheque made payable to “Prestige Holidays” • Bank transfer - A/C Name - Atkins Travel t/a Prestige Holidays, A/C No. 50129194 A/C Sort Code. 20-53-79 • Credit or debit card (no fee, American Express not accepted) by calling our team on 01425 480 600. • Or see your Travel Agent. a provisional booking may be made by telephone but must be confirmed with a completed booking form and deposit within one week. Upon receipt of your completed booking form and deposit we will send you a confirmation invoice and ATOL certificate (where applicable). approximately 2 weeks prior to the tour departure we will send you the final tour programme and all necessary travel documents.

FINAL PAYMENT Final balance payment is due 10 weeks prior to the tour departure and will be detailed on your confirmation invoice. If you make your booking within 8 weeks of departure, full payment will be required immediately. Please note: payment reminders are not sent. If we do not receive your final balance payment by the due date given, we reserve the right to cancel your holiday. all deposit and part payments are non-refundable. MINIMUM NUMBERS our average group size is 20 passengers, however, the maximum will be no higher than 26. For a tour to operate, we require a minimum number of participants. If for any reason we do not meet this minimum the tour may be cancelled, but we will endeavour to inform you no later than 8 weeks prior. at this point you will be offered a full refund or the option to rebook on an alternative tour. TOUR ALTERATION From time to time it may be necessary for us to make minor alterations to a tour, whether it is using a different hotel, flights or change to an excursion. Whilst most of these changes are only made to further improve our product some may be forced changes that are out of our control. CANCELLATION BY YOU We sincerely hope you will not have to cancel, but we understand unforeseen circumstances can cause problems. cancellation fees vary from tour to tour and you will be given details of these at the time of booking. our general conditions are: • Cancel more than 70 days prior to tour: loss of deposit • Cancel between 31 - 70 days prior: 50% cancellation charge • Cancel between 15 - 30 days prior: 95% cancellation charge • Cancel between 1 - 14 days of departure: 100% cancellation charge FITNESS a tour is a tour; it is not a relaxing holiday, and because of this, there is very limited free time, as the schedules are normally quite busy. If you prefer not to join in any of the sightseeing, visits or meals, of course you may do so. Please advise your tour manager in advance if you will not be with the group at any time. You will also need to arrange your own transport (own cost) to the collective departure point of the coach for our onward travel. Taxis are available via all hotel receptions. The majority of our tours involve a significant amount of walking, often over uneven ground, cobbled streets, hillsides or steps. You should be prepared to walk at a reasonable pace for up to two hours at a time and additionally be able to stand unaided during site visits. Prestige Holidays treats their guests comfort as a priority so if any of the above sounds too challenging, this tour may not be for you, as the smooth operation

of the tour and participants’ enjoyment could be compromised. If in doubt please call us on 01425 480 600 and we will be happy to discuss this with you in more depth. DECLARATIONS BY YOU If you have any medical condition or mobility issue that could impact your comfort during the tour, you must declare this on your booking form at the time of booking so we can assess your suitability for the itinerary. We also must be advised of any change in condition or mobility as it occurs. Your comfort and safety is absolutely paramount and if we feel we are unable to properly accommodate your needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking either at the initial booking stage or if your situation changes prior to travel. on certain occasions we may ask you to complete a medical form which will need to be signed by your doctor but we will advise you of this. If you fail to declare a condition or disability to Prestige Holidays which compromises either your or other travellers’ safety or comfort during the tour you may be asked by the Tour Manager to not partake in the activities or curtail your trip and return home (at your own expense) SPECIAL REQUESTS We will endeavour to arrange any reasonable special request where possible but this can not always be guaranteed. Please ensure you detail all requests on your booking form. any additional requests must be received in writing at least 8 weeks prior to the tour departure date. ACCOMMODATION We hand pick all our hotels to ensure they are of a good standard which will never be less than a 3-star equivalent. Please bear in mind not all countries operate on the same star-rating system and a 3-star in the UK could be noticeably different to a 3-star in albania. We will advise you in the tour itinerary of the proposed hotels but reserve the right to change these due to operational reasons prior to the tour. We will make every effort to advise you of this in advance. alternatives will always be of a similar standard. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Please ensure you travel with a passport of at least six months remaining validity beyond your return date. It is your sole responsibility to ensure you are in possession of all necessary travel documents prior to departure. Please remember to carry your EHIc card if travelling within Europe. We are happy to give advice where we can. INSURANCE We strongly recommend you take out adequate travel insurance that meets your particular needs and that of the cost you are paying. You must advise us of these details on your booking form and take your policy documents with you. We reserve the right to cancel your booking if you do not travel with adequate cover.

data ProteCtion

tHe aito QUality CHarter

To process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements we and your travel agent need to use the information you provide (such as name, address, passport information, email address, mobile number any special needs/dietary requirements, etc.).

Prestige Holidays is a member of the association of Independent Tour operators. The association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. Prestige Holidays abides by the association’s code of conduct and adheres to the aITo Quality charter which can be viewed on www.aito.co.uk. Visit the website to find out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.

We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect your information. We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels, transport companies, etc. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them, or as required by law. additionally, where your holiday is outside the European Economic area, controls on data protection in your destination may not be as stringent as the legal requirements in this country. We will only pass on your information to providers/suppliers responsible for the provision of your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant providers/suppliers. Please note where information is also held by your travel agent, this is subject to your agent’s own data protection policy. We will hold your information, where collected by us, and may use it to inform you of offers in the future or to send you brochures. If you do not wish to receive such approaches in the future, please tell us.

THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS THE QUALITY ALTERNATIVE. The air holiday packages and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the civil aviation authority. 2509 our aTol number is 2509. Please see our booking conditions for more information.

our full privacy policy can be found on our website.

100% FinanCial ProteCtion

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Prestige Holidays 1 Fridays Court, High Street Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 1JA

Escorted Group Tours Portfolio: 01425 480 600 Email: tours@prestigeholidays.co.uk www.toursprestigeholidays.co.uk Reservations: 01425 480 400 Fax: 01425 470 139 Email: enquiries@prestigeholidays.co.uk www.prestigeholidays.co.uk Ticketing/Admin: 01425 470 448 Canada Portfolio: 01502 567 222 Email: canada@prestigeholidays.co.uk www.prestigecanada.co.uk

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