APRIL 2019
ESCAPE with
Safari into Asia
where to encounter incredible animals in the wild
MEKONG EXPLORERS
welcome aboard the Victoria Mekong
THE BIG INTERVIEW with Wendy Wu
OUR 20 GREATEST BUCKETLIST EXPERIENCES choose your next adventure
Welcome to ESCAPE! It’s our first issue of 2019, filled, as usual, with inspiring articles and all the latest news and offers from the Wendy Wu Tours team. It’s been a busy start to the year. We were very excited to win a few more awards for our cabinet, including Best Long Haul Specialist Operator at the prestigious Globe Awards and Best Holiday Company to East and Central Asia at the British Travel Awards. We’ve released our second South America brochure, a destination that’s going from strength to strength (we’ve even got an in-house South America tailormade specialist who can help you create your dream tour). We’ve also let the world know about our exciting Solo tours range; celebrated our 20th anniversary with a fabulous party; and launched our fantastic new venture with the cruise vessel Victoria Mekong! There’s even more to come, so keep an ear to the ground… Whether you’re still looking for your ideal 2019 holiday or are already thinking ahead to what adventures 2020 may hold, we hope you’ll find all the inspiration you need right here. Inside you’ll discover Asia’s top safari destinations, the joys of an Indian Wedding, the experiences that should be on everyone’s bucketlist, everything you need to know about the Victoria Mekong, the ultimate South America itinerary and much more! We hope you’ll enjoy reading the articles we’ve put together for you, and would love to hear any feedback or suggestions you have for this, and future issues. Contact us at magazine@wendywutours.co.uk.
HIGHLIGHTS IN THIS ISSUE OF ESCAPE...
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Head to Head
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The Big Interview
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6 of Asia’s Greatest Safari Experiences
Two of Japan’s biggest cities clash over culture, food and attractions Our very own Wendy Wu contemplates the essential questions Asia has an incredible wealth of wildlife just waiting to be spotted
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Travel Tales
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South America: the Ultimate Destination
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Mekong Explorers
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Our 20 Greatest Bucketlist Experiences
Southeast Asia specialist Megan explores the many wonders of Borneo Delve deeper into a continent bursting with adventure Welcome aboard our brand new cruise vessel, the Victoria Mekong Those unmissable activities and sights that everyone should do or see
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Best wishes, The Escape Team
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Cover Image: Ranthambhore National Park, India
A MESSAGE FROM THE ESCAPE TEAM
All holidays featured in this magazine are fully ABTA and ATOL protected and you will be provided with certification of this when you book. You’ll find further information about financial protections on our website. All prices listed are per person and based on two adults sharing standard accommodation and return flights from London Heathrow on selected departure dates. Prices correct as of 28 March 2019 and are subject to change. Booking conditions apply, please see our website for details – www.wendywutours.co.uk/help-and-advice/booking-conditions/
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WHAT’S NEW?
OUR EXPERTS BRING YOU THE LATEST NEWS FROM WENDY WU TOURS
Incredible offers During April, we’ve got a fantastic upgrade offer available when you book a 2019 tour to China, Japan, India or Southeast Asia – a Premium Economy upgrade for FREE! Turn the page to find out more.
THE VICTORIA MEKONG We’re working with the brand-new ship, Victoria Mekong, to bring you some fantastic new Vietnam and Cambodia itineraries that feature the most exciting cruise itineraries on the Mekong! Cruise to page 18 to find our launch offer.
2019 - 2020 SOUTH AMERICA BROCHURE We recently launched the new South America brochure, packed with fantastic tours to some extraordinary destinations. It includes our most ambitious tour to date ‘Ultimate South America’, an epic 28-day adventure through 5 countries! Samba over to page 16 for more.
TOTAL ECLIPSE We’re so excited to be able to offer some fantastic tour options around the Chile Eclipse on July 2nd! We’ve got a charter plane to fly you comfortably to the prime viewing spot AND eclipse expert Dr Stuart Clark to guide you through proceedings. Enlighten yourself on page 20.
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T H E A W A R D - W I N N I N G TO U R S P E C I A L I S T
u k r a a s s y e p a p s a on H
Celebrate the magical cherry blossoms with one of our incredible offers when you book a Wendy Wu tour
FREE return Premium Economy upgrade flying to Japan or China
FREE one-way Premium Economy upgrade flying to India or Southeast Asia
SAVING up to £800
SAVING up to £300
Hurry, offer ends 30 April!
CALL TO BOOK
0808 274 2958
OR VISIT
wendywutours.co.uk
Free upgrade on selected tours to China or Japan flying with Air China. Free one-way upgrade on selected tours to India flying with British Airways. Free one-way upgrade on selected tours to Southeast Asia flying with EVA Air. New bookings only. Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other offer excluding loyalty discount. Offers end 30 April 2019. Please visit www.wendywutours.co.uk for valid travel dates, departure airports and full terms and conditions.
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Celebrating 2 0 Years
As 2018 marked the 20th anniversary of Wendy Wu Tours in the UK, we thought it was the perfect excuse to throw a party! Hosted at City Hall, with views of Tower Bridge and the London skyline, Wendy and the team entertained some of our most travelled customers with bubbles, nibbles and a spot of South American dancing! Wendy reflected on the past 20 years, sharing memorable moments and achievements before giving the floor to two of our top travellers, Pauline Pink and Maureen Perry, to talk about their experiences on tour.
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It was wonderful to meet Wendy and to hear about her passion for her travel company. That passion is found in the organisation and itinerary of all her tours. It was evident from our experience and the travellers that spoke too and inspired us to book a tour to Laos. Barbara Fitzsimmons – Wendy Wu Tours customer.
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VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE GUIDE
As part of our 20th Anniversary celebrations, we’d love you to vote for your favourite WWT guide by telling us what made that guide so fantastic. The winning guide, with the most votes, will get an all-expenses paid trip to London! Simply visit this page www.wendywutours.co.uk/wendy-wu-20/ upload your photo or video and a message about your guide and it will appear on our fabulous mosaic photo wall.
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THE BIG INTERVIEW We put life’s essential questions to our very own Wendy Wu, to see what we could learn about her drive, her fears and her guilty pleasures! Where is your happy place? As I’m constantly on the go with my job, which is now more 24/7 than ever it’s important for me to really make the most of any free time that I have. When I’m able to steal those moments, I like nothing better than taking a long hike on the South Downs with my two sons. It pushes me and helps me to feel more grounded and at one with nature – such a wonderful feeling. If you could be remembered for one thing what would it be? That I had an infectious desire and hunger to learn, taking life fully by the reins to get everything I can out of it. There’s a saying my father taught me which I think of every day - life is like rowing a boat against the current and if you’re not moving forwards then you’re already going backwards. It compels me to give my best and do my best. Ultimately, I’d like people to be moved by this passion and use it as a motivator
to make positive changes in their own lives. If I’m remembered for this then I will have achieved my mission on this earth.
taken me out of my comfort zone and face to face with some of my weaknesses.
What is your greatest fear? Complacency and staying still! The world is constantly evolving and so is Wendy Wu Tours therefore I’m always checking myself to ensure I’m growing. Complacency stifles the soul, a position I never want to find myself in.
Where in the world do you return to time and time again? Without a doubt it has be China. There is so much to see, and China is forever evolving with more and more parts of the country becoming accessible. I always love to take the bullet train - riding on a state-of-the-art train on a high platform with the most beautiful views, all in pure comfort, is the best way to travel. What’s your guilty pleasure?
What lesson has been the hardest for you to learn? If you weren’t doing this job, what would your dream job be?
Being a better manager, which in my case means cultivating a better temperament and learning to appreciate, respect and above all, encouraging my team to bring out the best in them. In the past I would overlook my weaknesses and continue to thrive on my strengths, however I’ve recently had the good fortune to take on the role of interim managing director which has absolutely
I absolutely have my dream job but if I wasn’t doing this then I would be a fiction writer. Throughout my life and my travels, I’ve met such interesting and fascinating people and, in my mind, I’m always creating stories about their lives and what experiences might have brought them there.
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I’m a huge fan of ‘Carry On’ films. British comedy is so infectious, and it’s the perfect antidote to a busy and stressful day in the office. In business I’m always the consummate professional but when I get home and close my front door I can simply be me and devour my favourite comedies. My favourite Carry On film – Carry On Camping!
China is forever evolving with more and more parts of the country becoming accessible
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Two of Japan’s most iconic cities come face to face in a battle of culture, food and sights. Which one will you explore?
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KYOTO
OSAKA
HISTORY AND CULTURE Previously called ‘Kyo’, the city was renamed Kyoto in the 11th century when it became Japan’s capital. A well-known cultural centre, the city is home to 1,600 Buddhist temples and over 400 Shinto shrines. As well as the prominent religious focus in Kyoto, this city is also renowned for being the birthplace of many cultural traditions such as Geisha, tea ceremonies and Zen Buddhism – be sure to delve in and experience all that this wonderful city has to offer.
Osaka is the second largest metropolitan area in Japan and, although it boasts a thoroughly modern vibe, has over 1,400 years of history. Developing as an economic and trading hub after the city became a gateway for trading across Asia, Osaka is often called the ‘kitchen of the nation’ and food is a large part of the culture here. Buddhism has also played a prominent role in Osaka’s development with the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, Shitenno-ji, located in the city.
FOOD Kyoto is famous for its delicate and varied cuisine, particularly its tofu and vegetable broth, multi course ‘kaiseki’ fine dining and shojin ryori, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. The city has a rich culinary tradition after being the seat of the Emperor and the imperial court for over 1,000 years and offers traditional food as well as Japanese classics such as sushi, tempura and ramen. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Considered Japan’s top foodie destination and home to one of its biggest fish markets, Osaka is renowned for fresh and delicious sushi, a must try! Japan is also known for its wagyu beef and with the city of Kobe, home of the renowned Kobe beef, just 30 minutes outside of Osaka, delicious meat is plentiful. Udon noodles are a top choice if you’re veggie; served often with tofu, the noodles are an extremely popular eat in Osaka.
ATTRACTIONS One of the most iconic attractions in Kyoto is the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine; dedicated to the god of rice, the shrine comprises of 32,000 bright vermillion ‘torii’ or gates, a must visit! Kyoto is also home to Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Once the retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the building is now a Zen Buddhist Temple with gold leaf adorning the top two floors, a teahouse and beautifully tranquil gardens.
Osaka Castle is a must see when visiting this area. Recognised as the symbol of the city and one of the main attractions, this historical monument stands proudly in the centre of town. Make your way to the Dotonbori district, offering an abundance of restaurants, bars and entertainment for all and situated along the canal, this colourful neighbourhood is known as the heart of Osaka. Unwind with a gentle cruise along the delightful Yodogawa River, taking in the ambience of this diverse city.
CONCLUSION TAKE ME THERE Jewels of Japan 11 days fr £4,990pp
Together, Kyoto and Osaka present an abundance of culture and history to delve into, offering a real insight into Japan, its past, present and future. Both share passion and flare for delicious cuisine with such varied tastes and textures to try! It’s now up to you if you like the look of discovering authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto or a forward-looking modern-day Japan in Osaka. Why not head to both?
TAKE ME THERE Japan Uncovered 17 days fr £6,490pp
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Safari into Asia: 6 great wildlife destinations Going on safari is a lifelong dream for many and makes for a truly extraordinary adventure. To spot animals roaming freely in their natural habitat to the backdrop of awe-inspiring surroundings is an experience which can’t be beaten. When we think of heading on safari, Africa is the first destination that springs to mind, but did you know that Asia is home to incredible wildlife parks which make for unique and unforgettable safari experiences? Read on to discover our top 6…
Sri Lanka
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Forests, lush plains and lagoons make up Yala National Park, which is home to sloth bears, macaques, spotted deer and elephants. The park also has one of the highest densities of leopards in the world. While just two of the five park zones are open to the public, leaving much of the land to remain a natural habitat for the wildlife without intrusion, your chance of spotting these beautiful creatures is high, with animal sightings happening all year round. Take Me There: Highlights of Sri Lanka tour 15 days from £3,290pp
Cambodia
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Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains are the perfect escape for any animal-loving adventurer and are the stomping ground for elephants, tigers, clouded leopards, sun bears, gibbons and crocodiles. A land once plagued by deforestation and poaching, this beautiful destination is beginning to see a trickle of tourists thanks to the work of conservationists protecting the area. It is fast becoming a spectacular setting to spot incredible wildlife. Take Me There: Create your own itinerary with Wendy Wu Tailormade!
Indonesia
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With white sand beaches, striking landscapes and colourful coastlines, Indonesia is bursting with brilliant wildlife and magnificent natural wonders. Head to the beautiful islands that make up the world-renowned Komodo National Park where you can come face to face with the legendary Komodo Dragons! These ancient creatures share their land with wild horses, deer and monkeys. Beyond the pink sand beaches, the surrounding coral reefs are alive with dolphins, giant turtles, pygmy seahorses, mantas and sharks. For those feeling extra brave, swim in a pool of crystal clear water full of harmless jelly fish! Take Me There: Incredible Indonesia tour 16 days from £3,490pp
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4 Nepal One of the best national parks in Asia for spotting wildlife, Chitwan National Park houses over 500 species of bird as well as deer, monkeys, wild elephants, sloth bears and one-horned rhinos. Explore the landscapes by boat or jeep, choose to safari through the jungle, enjoy a nature walk or take an incredible canoe ride, where you may be lucky enough to watch the elephants bathing or spot the elusive Bengal tiger. Take Me There: Himalayan Adventure tour 21 days from £4,290pp
5 India Find yourself in the rolling landscapes of Ranthambore National Park, discovering Bengal tigers, sloth bears and leopards, amongst a backdrop of ancient temples, forts and pavilions nestled in lush greenery. Don’t forget to look up too, to spot the fluttering of brightly feathered birds and the russet red fur of a Giant Malabar squirrel as it leaps from tree to tree! A safari through this beautiful park is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. Take Me There: Highlights of India tour 18 days from £3,590pp
6 Thailand Thailand’s largest national park, Kaeng Krachan, makes for a beautiful setting to spot wildlife, with thick woods, waterfalls, tropical trees and spectacular views. The park’s fauna includes leopards, bears, stump-tailed macaques, deer, elephants, monkeys, wild dogs, tigers, over 300 types of butterfly and over 400 species of bird, which can be spotted soaring through the misty valleys. Take Me There: Create your own itinerary with Wendy Wu Tailormade!
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CORNER Here at Wendy Wu Tours, our customers mean the world to us, so having your feedback is very important! We love hearing your travel tales and exciting experiences, they inspire us to create incredible trips over and over again. Andrew and Pat Frost travelled on their first Wendy Wu Tour – The Majestic Yangtze, which covers some of China’s most iconic sights. We asked Andrew and Pat to tell us a little bit about their trip, what they got up to and why they enjoyed it…
Discovering imperial riches in the Forbidden City
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Our brilliant tour manager Link had all our many questions about this area covered’
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OUTBOUND
CHINA
BEIJING (3N)
INBOUND (1N)
XIAN (2N)
YICHANG
YANGTZE CHONGQING RIVER CRUISE (4N)
WUHAN
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SHANGHAI (2N)
CHENGDU (1N)
The awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors
From: Andrew and Pat
Subject: Holiday to China
To: magazine@wendywutours.co.uk
Hi guys, what a start to the tour! Up and on the road by 9am for a full day of iconic Beijing sights – Tiananmen Square is huge and thronged with people, many of whom were queuing to see Mao Tse Tung in his mausoleum. We took a fascinating rickshaw ride through the Hutongs before our afternoon Tai Chi lesson in a beautiful park, a perfect way to wind down. Our brilliant tour manager Link had all our many questions about this area covered. WOW! The early start was well worth it as our group seemed to have the Great Wall to ourselves. The cable car ride to reach the access point of the wall through the quiet of the ethereal morning light was spectacular. We had plenty of time to wander and contemplate this wonder of the world; that’s another one off the bucket list! Nothing prepares you for the size and scale of the Terracotta Warriors, being able to see the exhibits in such detail is mind-blowing. The armour, the horses and the weaponry were just incredible. Oh, my word, PANDAS! What’s not to love? We could have stayed at the Panda Base all day. Lots of information was on offer and the photo opportunities were endless. Quite who was observing whom remains unknown! Our Yangtze River cruise was perfectly timed; the midpoint of our trip, we were ready to relax for a couple of days. The cruise was great, we were able to do as many of the optional excursions and activities as we wanted, and it also allowed the group to get together and compare notes about the trip so far. Such an interesting bunch of people too. We travelled to Shanghai, a long day but so well organised it was easy. We enjoyed a pleasant walk around the Bund and took a tour of the global financial hub looking at state of the art architecture. In the evening, we hopped on a Huangpu River cruise and it didn’t disappoint; Shanghai literally lights up at night.
China’s most celebrated bear
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Oh, my word, PANDAS! What’s not to love?
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With the exception of breakfast, we ate ‘local’ and it was a real treat. Some of the flavours and ingredients were so different to what we’d thought of as Chinese prior to our visit and everyone managed to find something to suit their palate. For us, and several the others in our group, this was the first escorted tour experience we’d had and if the superb organisation of this trip is an example of what to expect from other Wendy Wu tours, we’ll be back for more! Kindest regards Andrew and Pat
A local dumpling stall in Shanghai Walking on the Great Wall
TAKE ME THERE Majestic Yangtze 14 days fr £2,990pp Shanghai’s skyline
Explore the best of China, including the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors and the Giant Pandas.
Cruising the Shennong Stream, tributary of the Yangtze
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Borneo TRAVEL TALES
“ I was lucky enough to get to go on our Best of Borneo tour last year – the tour starts in Kuching, and travels across to Kota Kinabalu, with plenty of amazing places in between. I felt like it was the perfect balance of culture and nature.”
Megan, Product Executive
Pygmy elephant
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FOOD I had the opportunity to try so many local dishes, from the most amazing red snapper fish to delicious jungle ferns, tender bamboo steamed chicken, and mouth-watering curried pumpkin. One of my favourite meals on the whole tour, was when we dropped into a local café for a Sarawak laksa. I’ve craved another one ever since! With a coconut milk base, it’s a spicy noodle soup which combines tamarind paste, chilli, fresh lemongrass and local ginger – such incredible flavours! Served with vermicelli noodles, shredded chicken, prawns, tofu, bean sprouts, thin omelette strips and fresh lime, I can officially say there’s nothing else like it. I would go back to Borneo for another bowl in a heartbeat.
HEADHUNTERS
Sarawak laksa Iban Longhouse
WILDLIFE While on tour, I ended up making a list of all of the different animals I had seen since there were so many. It’s such a beautiful, naturally rich part of the world and some of the animals we saw were so colourful. Some of my favourite spots in the wild were a ruddy kingfisher, some otters, pygmy elephants and plenty of different kinds of geckos. Of course, the real winner was seeing orangutans at both the Semmengoh reserve and Sepilok centre. Our amazing guide, Selvam, taught us all about the methods they use to help save, rehabilitate and protect these beautiful apes in Malaysian Borneo. The sanctuaries are largely open spaces with feeding platforms for those who aren’t ready to forage for themselves, so you can’t guarantee that you’ll see any of the adorable natives, but we were lucky enough to see them both times and also some wild orangutans on our way to Sandakan!
Orangutan, Sepilok centre
Despite being called headhunters, they are incredibly friendly and enjoy sharing their culture. We were invited to toast to the spirits with rice wine by the Chief, before watching some traditional dance in full regalia, which is based on the movements of the rhinoceros hornbill.
I personally adored the sun bears and was overjoyed to get the chance to see one of Borneo’s most striking and well-known inhabitants, the rhinoceros hornbill, while cruising the Kinabatangan River.
MEGAN’S TOP TIPS • Don’t forget binoculars – a must-have for your Kinabatangan cruises • Walking sandals are the perfect jungle trekking shoes • Avoid man made fabrics! They do not work well with the humidity • Carry an umbrella/poncho ready for tropical downpours • Try the Sarawak laksa
On my trip, we were fortunate enough to travel by longboat to visit a traditional Iban Longhouse which is home to a community that still lives the traditional way – with less headhunting! It was very interesting to learn about how they have adapted to modern day society all the while sticking to the old values, residing all together in one large longhouse on stilts and largely living off the land in their small community.
TAKE ME THERE Best of Borneo 16 days fr £3,890pp Experience the many wonders of Borneo, from cosmopolitan cities to indigenous culture and orangutans to lush jungle landscapes
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Discover the lush tea plantations of
Sri Lanka
Highland tea plantations are one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular and striking features. Perfect for hiking or cooling down after the heat of the lowlands, there are plenty of tea factories to visit too, where you can learn all about the tea manufacturing process.
TAKE ME THERE Highlights of Sri Lanka 15 days fr ÂŁ3,290pp Marvel at magnificent temples, search for incredible wildlife and admire the beauty of the tea-filled highlands
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South America:
the Ultimate Destination! Our range of South America tours were already full of wonders and adventures, but our newest one, well, that’s our most epic to date! To celebrate the 28 day ‘Ultimate South America’, we’ve put together this handy selection of South America Top 5s. A continent packed with adventure, it’s home to the Amazon, mighty Iguacu, rugged Patagonia and a huge wealth of wildlife. There’s fantastic culture, from fascinating indigenous heritage and traditional tribal communities to rich colonial history. Not forgetting the great food and delicious wine too. South America is a continent just crying out to be explored!
OUR TOP 5 South American countries PERU Best known for the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu, Peru is home to some of South America’s richest indigenous heritage, but there is so much more to discover! Lima is a vibrant, modern city and a foodie heaven, whilst the colonial jewels of Arequipa, verdant rainforest of the Amazon and the spectacular Colca Canyon with its resident condors, to name a few, should all be on your bucketlist.
CHILE For a slither of a country clinging to the edge of the continent, Chile does nature on a grand scale! Stretching from the Atacama in the north to the glacier fields of the south, in between you’ll find lakes, volcanoes, mountains – vast tracts of untouched wilderness. But Chile isn’t just about the great outdoors – there’s sophisticated cities and lively seaside resorts to explore and delicious wine to sample too!
BOLIVIA A rugged and mysterious country, Bolivia remains delightfully but undeservedly off-the-beaten-track. Encompassing parts of both the Andes and the Amazon as well as the mind-bending Uyuni salt flats, Bolivia’s landscapes are incredibly diverse and a thrill to explore whilst, thanks to the continents highest concentration of indigenous people, there’s no better place to experience Pre-Colombian customs and traditions.
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ARGENTINA From the roaring waters of mighty Iguacu, down through the endless green pampas, past the winelands of the Andean foothills and the spectacular Lake District, finishing amongst the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of Patagonia, Argentina’s landscapes are vast, varied and never far from ‘wow’. And then there are the cities, unashamedly European-influenced hubs of culture, home to many of the friendly, feisty and passionate Argentinos.
BRAZIL Brazil is full of a seductive samba rhythm and incredible adventure; we defy you not to swing your hips as you explore this vast country, home to the world’s greatest collection of flora and fauna in the Amazon Rainforest and thrilling, effervescent cities including the ‘Marvellous City’, Rio! Oh, and once you’ve discovered it, find a spot on one of the many beautiful beaches, sip on a caipirinha, and relax.
OUR TOP 5 South American... EXPERIENCES • Taking the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu • Meeting the Uros people on Lake Titicaca • Exploring the Uyuni salt flats • Discovering the night skies of San Pedro de Atacama • Hearing the roar of Iguacu Falls
EXTENSIONS • Easter Island • Amazon Rainforest • Galapagos Islands • Brazil Beaches • Uruguay
DISHES • Empanadas • Feijoada • Ceviche • Steak
TAKE ME THERE Ultimate South America 28 days fr £6,990pp The best bits of Peru, Chile, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil on an epic adventure.
• Dulce de Leche
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MEKONG EXPLORERS The mighty River Mekong tumbles its way down from the dramatic heights of Tibet, through China, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, reaching the South China Sea through the bountiful beauty of the Mekong Delta. Its banks are home to those who live off or make their living from its precious waters – farmers, fishermen and hilltribe communities, an endless panorama of lush landscapes and local life. The best way to discover this authentic slice of Southeast Asia? A river cruise of course! The Victoria Mekong is the newest boat on the Mekong. Launching in December 2019, this four-star deluxe river vessel offers the most exciting cruise experience on the river. Sailing between Vietnam’s lush Mekong Delta and Cambodia’s charming capital Phnom Penh via a proudly off-the-beaten-track route, on the Victoria Mekong the shore excursions put you right in the heart of local life with plenty of opportunities to interact with local people and their culture.
SHIP FACILITIES • 33 spacious cabins with private bathroom and balcony space • Two luxurious VIP suites • Sundeck • Bar and restaurant • Cocktail pool • Spa with massage service • Lounge bar • Games room
LIFE ON THE VICTORIA MEKONG A cruise on the Victoria Mekong is all about giving you an authentic look at daily life on the Mekong, and the rich culture of both Vietnam and Cambodia. During the cruise you will experience: • Traditional music and dance performances • Lectures, cooking classes and cocktail competitions 18 ESCAPE | Call us on 0808 274 2958
• Visits to local cottage industries such as incense-making and net weaving • Floating market experience by traditional sampan • Admire a colourful Cao Dai temple • Tour a local silk village We’ve taken the Victoria Mekong’s innovative 3- and 4-night cruise itineraries and built six brand new tours around them – each the perfect showcase for the treasures of this magical region. Our itineraries range from introductory tours to the wonders of southern Vietnam and Cambodia to an in-depth journey through Indochina. You’ll find two on the opposite page, whilst the other four are waiting to be discovered on our website.
VICTORIA MEKONG LAUNCH OFFER! Book any of our six tours featuring the Victoria Mekong and we’ll upgrade you to an Upper Deck cabin for free, saving up to £120 per person. Book by 31st May 2019. Conditions apply: see website for details.
MEKONG EXPLORER 22 days from £4,190pp TOUR HIGHLIGHTS A cyclo tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter Practice Tai Chi on Halong Bay A royal dining experience in Hue Stroll across the breathtaking ‘Golden Bridge’ of Danang Learn ancient farming techniques in Hoi An A sunset cruise on the moat of Angkor Thom A night at Cambodia’s famous Phare Circus Local market visit and cooking class
CLASSIC MEKONG 17 days from £3,690pp TOUR HIGHLIGHTS A sunset cruise on the moat of Angkor Thom Cambodia Living Arts tour with cultural guide Saigon ‘dining in the dark’ experience Learn ancient farming techniques in Hoi An A cyclo tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter Practice Tai Chi on Halong Bay Enjoy the Quintessence of Tonkin show
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Total Eclipse
The universe has long held sway over the human imagination. It’s this eternal intrigue, hand in hand with the fact that many of us can no longer experience the wonders of space from our own homes thanks to light pollution (and here in the UK cloud cover!), that has pushed us to head to faraway lands to find the perfect conditions to discover the skies. It’s becoming a very popular holiday pastime!
This year, on 2 July, the universe is stepping up a gear with a galactic spectacular – a total solar eclipse. Fully visible in just a small strip of the Pacific Ocean, Chile and Argentina, a prime viewing spot is Chile’s northern Elqui region, a place known for its supreme star-gazing credentials and home to many international observatories. In the middle of Chile’s winter, the eclipse will occur just before sunset when astronomers and enthusiasts alike will be gathering to witness this magical event. Chile’s northern Elqui region also happens to be a wine region and home of local tipple ‘pisco’ – it would be rude not to sample a glass or two while waiting for the main event!
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Have you always wanted to witness a total solar eclipse? Look no further! We’re taking travellers to northern Chile to experience this phenomenal event on a range of tours, each including: • Eclipse expert, Dr Stuart Clark • A charter flight to reach the viewing point in comfort • Eclipse glasses and refreshments • Chilean winery tour There are also options to explore more of South America, including Buenos Aires, the Atacama Desert, Rio de Janeiro and Machu Picchu.
TAKE ME THERE Total Eclipse 17 days fr £6,490pp One of five spectacular Eclipse tours that include the eclipse and exploring South America!
20 EXPERIENCES THAT SHOULD BE ON YOUR BUCKETLIST 20 Enjoy Naadam Festival (Mongolia)
19 Experience a traditional Indian wedding (India)
The Naadam Festival is an incredible combination of arts and sports involving three main elements – wrestling, horseracing and archery. Mongolia and the Naadam Festival – 23 days from £5,690pp
Vibrant, extravagant, full of rich heritage and age-old traditions - an Indian wedding is sure to be an event you never forget! An Indian Wedding – 9 days from £2,990pp
16 Meet the Snow Monkeys (Japan)
18 Explore Bagan’s Temples (Burma)
17 Stand in awe of the Taj Mahal (India)
Wander the mesmerising landscapes, passing amongst beautiful temples, before boarding a local ox cart to explore deeper into the plains. Hidden Treasures of Burma – 17 days from £3,390pp
No Asia bucketlist would be complete without the majestic Taj Mahal, one of the most recognisable buildings in the world. Indian Adventure – 16 days from £2,890pp
View the cheeky Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, of Jigokudani bathing in their hot spring pool! Sapporo & Snow Monkeys – 11 days from £4,990pp
14 Take the Toy Train to Shimla (India) The Kalka-Shimla toy train snakes into the foothills of the Himalayas and is often described as one of the most beautiful railways in the world. Northern India Discovery – 16 days from £2,990pp
15 Cruise Halong Bay (Vietnam) Explore the ethereal beauty of Halong Bay by boat to see why so many visitors are drawn here. Vibrant Vietnam – 15 days from £2,690pp
12 Join the monks in Koyasan for morning service (Japan) Spend the night in a Japanese temple and rise early to join the monks for their daily service – hearing them chant is incredibly inspiring. Trails of Japan – 13 days from £5,490pp
13 Witness a Total Solar Eclipse (Chile) A total solar eclipse is a spectacular phenomenon to behold and, on 2 July 2019, you can witness this natural wonder from Chile’s dramatic Elqui Region. Eclipse Tour – 7 days from £3,790pp
11 Visit the ancient Uros people (Peru) Living on islands made of reeds that float around Lake Titicaca, visiting the Uros people and learning about their history is a remarkable experience. Best of Peru & Colombia – 19 days from £4,390pp
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10 Gaze on mighty Mt Everest (Tibet) The majestic Mt Everest and the surrounding sky-scraping peaks of the Himalayan massif loom over the landscapes of southern Tibet. Ever present on the horizon as you journey through the harsh but beautiful landscapes, there are always rewarding views to capture. Himalayan Adventure – 21 days from £4,290pp
9 See the Giant Pandas of Chengdu (China) No visit to China is complete without a trip to the Chengdu Panda Reserve. Here you can spot the adorable giant pandas and their cubs munching on bamboo, playing and climbing trees. In Pursuit of Pandas – 9 days from £1,990pp
8 Discover Angkor by Tuk Tuk (Vietnam & Cambodia) What better way to see the glorious Angkor temple complex than from the back of a traditional tuk tuk? Explore Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm and all the wonders in between, ending your ride with incredible sunset views. Vietnam & Cambodia Discovery – 21 days from £3,590pp
7 Spot the orangutans in Borneo (Borneo) Visiting the orangutans in the wild, as they play and swing among the treetops, is one of the world’s greatest wildlife experiences and should be added to any animal lover’s bucketlist. Best of Borneo – 16 days from £3,890pp
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6 Safari in Sri Lanka (Sri Lanka) Spotting leopards, elephants and bears in their natural habitat against a beautiful backdrop of Sri Lanka makes for a brilliant adventure. Head to page 8 to see just why a Sri Lanka safari is so special. Highlights of Sri Lanka – 15 days from £3,290pp
5 Explore Zhangjiajie Avatar Mountains (China)
4 Explore the Silk Road city of Samarkand (Uzbekistan)
The pillar-like quartzite-sandstone formations that make up Zhangjiajie National Park emerging from mist and lush greenery is entirely otherworldly – it’s no wonder that the park inspired the setting for the movie Avatar. Dreams of Nature – 22 days from £3,490pp
Magnificently depicted by poets and historians for centuries, the ancient city of Samarkand boasts sublime architecture, unique monuments and incredible culture, making it an inspiring and striking place to explore. Road to Samarkand – 22 days from £4,490pp
3 Hike the base of Mt Fuji (Japan) An iconic symbol of Japan, people come from all over the world to gaze at Mount Fuji. Make your way through alpine forests, meadows and around lakes, stopping to admire upon the peak towering above you. A Week in Japan – 8 days from £3,790pp
1 Journey along the Great Wall of China (China) To walk along one of the greatest wonders of the world and take in the remarkable sight of the Great Wall snaking through the awe-inspiring landscape is a truly unbeatable experience. China Explorer – 15 days from £3,390pp
2 Ride the train to Machu Picchu (Peru) Embark on an unforgettable voyage weaving through Jurassic Park-like scenery and breathtaking landscapes as you make your way to Machu Picchu. The train boasts panoramic windows so you can enjoy the striking views. Panoramic Peru – 15 days from £3,690pp
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Our Guide to
Delhi street food
Stepping into any Indian city is an assault on the senses and Delhi is no exception. A cacophony of noise awaits with car and motorcycle horns and the shouts of street-hawkers and their indiscernible dialect. Scents of a thousand spices waft through the air drawing you in closer to local street food which is never far from the eye. Fresh, simple, but complex flavours combine to give any visitor a gastronomic experience to remember. With an abundance of choice amid such sensory overload, finding the perfect street food option can be a daunting experience for the uninitiated. Our quick guide below picks out some of our favourites as well as looking at some top tips to make your culinary adventure one to remember.
FOR BREAKFAST No trip to New Delhi is complete without sampling a delicious paratha. Whilst eaten any time of day, a paratha is best enjoyed for breakfast. An egg paratha doused liberally with desi ghee, a slightly indulgent clarified butter, provides a perfect start to a full day of touring ahead.
FOR MEAT-EATERS
TAKE ME THERE Inspiring India 14 days fr £2,290pp Discover the classic sights of the Golden Triangle plus the tigers of Ranthambore National Park.
Whilst traditional Indian cuisine favours a vegetarian approach, meat-eaters are easily catered for with a wide selection of kathi rolls, shawarma and kebab options – perfect for the hungry carnivore. Chicken, covered in spices and cooked in a tandoor, wrapped in a chapati with a fresh salad and a cooling raita sauce is something dreams are made of.
FOR VEGETARIANS Vegetarians are spoilt for choice
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walking through New Delhi with an abundance of tasty offerings at every corner, from potato (aloo), cauliflower (gobi) and paneer (cheese) to choose from. But the real local highlight is chhole bhatoore, a fragrant, highly spiced chickpea dish which is often accompanied by an onion salad, chutney and paratha.
TO DRINK Taking on board plenty of fluid serves two purposes on trips to India ensuring that you are fully hydrated and to cleanse the palate after meals and snacks. There is no greater cleanser of the palate and all-round refresher than a typical lassi. A yogurtbased drink spiced with rosewater is a cooling and tasty accompaniment to any meal – at any time of day.
FOR A SWEET TOOTH Delicately spiced food is not reserved solely for savoury courses, but dessert too is equally a celebratory affair. Try a delicious jalebi, a deep-fried batter soaked in syrup or kulfi, ice cream which comes in multitudes of exotic flavours; mango, pomegranate, paan and tamarind to name just a few.
Chongqing Sprawling along the banks of the Yangtze River, Chongqing is one of the world’s largest cities and one of its most innovative. Long a major river port, an industrial hub and, for a short period, China’s capital, Chongqing is best known as the gateway to the Three Gorges, a place to embark or disembark a Yangtze cruise. In recent years, however, old industrial sites have been re-imagined, state-of-the-art architecture has risen skywards, and the visitors have flooded in. Here’s why…
FOOD Once part of Sichuan, famous for its delicious, spicy food, Chongqing kept close ties with its former province and has become a culinary destination in its own right. The city is particularly famous for ‘Chongqing hotpot’, so much so that there are thousands of restaurants serving it! In recent years, guidelines have been published on how it should be prepared and served, so you can be safe in the knowledge that you are eating something authentic. Other must-try dishes include spicy dandan noodles, mapo tofu and spicy lotus root.
CULTURE AND ATTRACTIONS An ancient town swallowed by Chongqing’s urban sprawl, Ciqikou’s charming and remarkable intact old streets are a delight to explore. A bustling market and port town during the Ming and Qing dynasties, today it’s a vibrant place full of little shops, cafes and food stalls. For a spot of culture in the heart of the city, the Three Gorges Museum, housed in one of the city’s landmark buildings, and the Yangtze River Cableway are popular attractions, whilst ‘Eling Park and Maoer’ Creation & Art Park are fantastic examples of
how to turn out-of-date industry into bustling public spaces. You can also meet China’s most famous bears here; the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo has several resident bears who live in a spacious enclosure designed to look like their natural habitat. On the outskirts of the city you’ll find the incredible Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to ancient Buddhist carvings and sculptures. A bit further afield, but a worthy visit, is the Wulong Scenic Area, an area of spectacular karst landscapes that includes natural bridges, caves and dramatic gorges.
TAKE ME THERE Wonders of China 16 days fr £3,290pp Alternatively, take your time exploring Chongqing on a tailormade China tour.
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Weddings offer a fascinating and fun window into other cultures, none more so than an Indian wedding! Big, bold and beautiful, the celebration is a three-day affair, full of customs and traditions, all focused on the happiness, harmony and prosperity of the bride and groom. Here’s what to expect:
MEHNDI
A pre-wedding ritual, the mehndi ceremony is a private ceremony for the bride and the female members of her and the groom’s family. Usually taking place the day before the wedding itself, it centres around the bride as she receives her ‘adornments’ for the wedding day. This is done with mehndi, or henna, used to decorate her hands and feet. Tradition says that the deeper the colours of the bride’s henna, the happier the marriage will be. The intricate designs symbolise blessings, luck, joy and love.
SANGEET
Another part of the pre-wedding festivities, the sangeet is a celebration of the couple and the bonding of their families. An all-out party, the families come together for the first time to dance,
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sing and eat the night away! There are usually dance performances by family members, choreographed routines to traditional songs and a few Bollywood numbers, before the dance floor opens for everyone to bust some moves. The energy levels are kept high by a huge array of delicious food and, depending on the couple’s religious beliefs, alcohol.
members of her family. The wedding ceremony itself includes being physically bound together during ‘raksha bandhan’, and the ‘saptapadi’, taking seven steps around a holy fire; Hindu couples can choose whether to exchange rings. The bride and groom then greet all the guests and receive their blessings before processing out of the ceremony.
THE CEREMONY
Lavish and full of beautiful rituals, the ceremony will be unlike anything you’ve witnessed before. The groom has his own procession, parading up to the ‘mandap’ where he greets his parents and the bride’s parents, who all then remove their shoes and enter the sacred space to await the bride. The bride arrives with bridesmaids and flower girls, escorted or carried by senior male
TAKE ME THERE An Indian Wedding 9 days fr £2,990pp Explore India and be a guest at an Indian wedding, including the sangeet and the ceremony!
OUR TRAVEL APP REVIEWS There are a lot of things you’ll need to think about before you go on holiday, as well as whilst you’re there. We’ve found some very handy apps that may just help you plan, pack and price things up.
Pack Point Never forget your jacket, umbrella, shorts or sandals again! PackPoint builds your packing list according to your itinerary so you have everything you need for your trip. Start packing now www.packpnt.com
Duolingo The most popular language-learning platform worldwide, with over 300 million learners. Track your progress, earn rewards, and join the world’s largest community of language learners at www.duolingo.com
XE Currency Need to calculate currencies on-the-go? With the XE Currency App, you can access live exchange rates and calculate prices on your smartphone or tablet. Get spending! www.xe.com
Foursquare Find the best restaurants, bars and more. Foursquare City Guide will lead you to the perfect spot, anywhere in the world. Take a look! www.foursquare.com
Polarsteps Polarsteps automatically tracks your route and places you’ve visited while you are travelling. Just carry your phone in your pocket and the app creates your own beautiful travel journal. www.polarsteps.com
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