Chinese Whispers October 2015

Chinese Whispers O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

What’s new in 2016

New brochures, new tours, new destinations Incredible India Visit the most impressive sights of India in 2016 What's your style?

With so much to see and so many new ways to see it, we help you decide Magic Mornings Enjoy the sunrise over Halong Bay and Angkor Wat 48 hours in Chengdu Visit the Giant Pandas Faces & Places photo competition WINNER ANNOUNCED Classic Tours • Discovery Tours • Deluxe Tours • River Cruising • Private Tours • Tailor-Made Itineraries China • Vietnam • India • Cambodia • Laos • Japan • Thailand • Sri Lanka • Myanmar • Tibet • Mongolia • Bhutan Nepal • Sikkim • Hong Kong • Singapore • Borneo • Taiwan • South Korea • Maldives

Wendy’s Message I love this time of year – when I can show you what we have been working on behind the scenes: our new tours, new brochures, new touring styles, new website and much more.

This year we have a lot to tell you about which means this edition of Chinese Whispers is full of exciting news and stories.

To celebrate all that’s new at Wendy Wu Tours, including our 2016/17 brochures, you can save $200 per person on Discovery and Deluxe group tours as featured in our September supplement, providing you with even more value for your money. In times when the Australian Dollar is buying less, it’s reassuring to know that so much is included in your group tour price, from your international flights, to your entrance fees and tipping. Furthermore our Price Promise means you can book in complete confidence that you are paying the lowest price for your holiday.

We are always fine-tuning our tours based on feedback from our loyal customers – you.

So we are extremely excited to introduce a brand new concept for Wendy Wu Tours – our Discovery range of group tours. Soak in the culture and history while you immerse yourself in the destination and explore all those cultural and historical nooks and crannies at a slower pace. Take a look at page 9 to discover more.

With so much to see, and so many ways to see it, we hope you will join us on a new adventure through Asia soon.

Wendy Wu P.S. Be sure to request your copy of our new 2016/17 brochures!

Cover image: Baby Giant Panda, Chengdu

Wendy’s Tips for 2016 T I P #1 J O I N A C R U I S E THROUGH ASIA River cruising is an experience like no other. Rather than a single destination, you will experience a rolling ribbon of dramatic scenery, stunning countryside and enchanting people along the river banks. Join us on a cruise along one of the many waterways of Asia. Cruise through the dramatic three gorges on the Yangtze River, China, unwind on-board a river vessel on the Mekong Delta, Vietnam, or experience the Irrawaddy, Myanmar, from the comfort of your own cabin. Visit our website, or see our 2016 /17 brochures for more details.

T I P #2 E X P LO R E G A R D E N S BY T H E B AY, SINGAPORE One of the world’s top 10 indoor gardens and home to the world’s largest greenhouse, the spectacular cooled conservatories and ‘super trees’ are now an established part of Singapore. Gardens by the Bay is a must-visit attraction with 9 different gardens and flower displays to explore, there is always something new to see!

There are more than 100 hectares of exhibits – including a cloud forest, flower dome and sky walks that provided superb views.

Singapore stopovers start from $395 pp. twin share.

See our website for more details.

Pandaw river cruise, Myanmar

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Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

TIP #3 OVERNIGHT ON H A LO N G B AY, V I E T N A M Travel to Vietnam in 2016 and enjoy even more value for your money with all our Vietnam tours now including an overnight stay on Halong Bay. Watch the sunset over the limestone karst mountains rising from the beautiful emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

Then do it all again in the morning.

Vietnam Impressions, 9 days from $2,990 pp. twin share Vietnam Escape, 16 days from $3,980 pp. twin share Vietnam Panorama, 18 days from $3,980 pp. twin share Vietnam Highlights, 18 days from $3,980 pp. twin share

Halong Bay, Vietnam

WHAT’S

NEW?

2016 brochures out now plus new tours Just like each of our destinations, we know that every traveller is different, so we offer a variety of tour styles to cater to your preference.

Our Classic Tours are fully inclusive – a great way to explore all the highlights with everything taken care of, so all you have to do is soak it all in. For those wanting to travel with a little bit of extra comfort and style, try our Deluxe Tour range, including deluxe hotels and unique touring experiences. New for 2016 is our Discovery range, designed to let you further immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Asia.

Discovery Tours also give you the opportunity to take part in cultural and active experiences.

What’s your style? Turn to pages 8 & 9 and let us help you decide, or take a look at all the new tours and itineraries in our 2016/17 brochures, just released. Order your copy today.

Where in the world?

H A R B I N S N O W & I C E F E S T I VA L , C H I N A

January & February 2016 Discover all that Harbin has to offer this January & February with its spectacular ice and snow sculptures, carved into animals, plants and buildings.

Explore this northern city further and admire the unique Russian architecture and religious monuments.

H A R B I N S N O W & I C E F E S T I VA L S H O R T S TAY 3 days Beijing to Harbin to Beijing from $2,570 pp. twin share*

Grand Asia Princess Cruises Group Tour Embark on a 17 night voyage aboard the Sapphire Princess cruise ship, through Indochina, Japan and South Korea before disembarking in Beijing. Then spend 6 nights discovering the history and unique culture of China, before returning home.

Festival dates: 5th Jan to 25th Feb 2016 *Includes accommodation, some meals, transfers, local English speaking guides and return domestic flights from Beijing to Harbin.

H O L I F E S T I VA L , I N D I A

March 2016

26 days fully inclusive from $8,280 pp. twin share Departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per in 2016

The biggest festival in the Hindu calendar after Diwali, the Holi Festival celebrates the beginning of spring in India. Always celebrated after the full moon in March, the festival is renowned for its bright colours and water balloons.

Relax in the Maldives

H I G H L I G H T S O F I N D I A A N D N E PA L G R O U P TO U R 22 days fully inclusive from $8,140 pp. twin share

The Maldives is home to some of the best beaches in the world, and where you will find whiter-than-white sand and turquoise-blue water.

Some of the world’s most amazing diving and snorkelling can be found here and the luxurious resorts mean the Maldives are at the top of many travellers’ wish-lists.

The Maldives is the perfect holiday destination to add on to any tour of India or Sri Lanka.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort and Spa 5 nights from $1,640 pp. twin share including accommodation, return airport transfers and breakfast daily.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Departs 12th Mar 2016 See our website for more details.

LU N A R M O O N F E S T I VA L , H O I A N , V I E T N A M

Once a month in 2016 During the full moon, the streets of Hoi An are lit by traditional, handmade lanterns in various colours. Visitors will see local people dressed in traditional costume and on the banks of the River, young men and women exchange folk songs.

V I E T N A M AT A G L A N C E G R O U P TO U R 12 days fully inclusive from $3,350 pp. twin share Departing Syd & Mel Departs 19th Mar and 13th Jul 2016 See our website for more details about any of the tours featured. wendywutours.com.au

Chinese Whispers – October 2015

3

A message from our partners

Taj Mahal, Agra

Incredible India The sounds of bells, conch shells and religious chanting put you on a transcendental high.

The roar of the tiger and dance of the peacock form part of a truly mesmerising ambience.

Add to this colourful costumes, extravagant decorations, endless festivities, delicious cuisine, lilting music, folklore renditions and beautiful hand-crafted artefacts and you have the incredible wonderland that is India.

With so much to experience and so many wonderful places to visit, here we highlight the most impressive sights that are a must-see on any visit to India.

4

Call: 1300 798 118 and quote Chinese Whispers

e

Beaches of southern India

from across India to the ghats lining the banks, to wash away their sins and cremate their loved ones in the sacred waters. If you’re lucky you may witness the Puja ceremony of Ganga Aarti.

SOUTHERN INDIA The south is India as you've always imagined it – exotic, colourful, mysterious, spiritual and charismatic. It is home to pristine backwaters, sleepy fishing villages and tropical beaches, and offers up spectacular cuisine and the friendliest of people. It is very different from the north, providing stark contrasts between spices, food, cultures and climate.

Southern India’s long, wide beaches fringed with palm trees are the perfect place to relax and unwind after your tour of India.

With so much to explore, make 2016 the year you visit incredible India.

Visit the city of Mumbai and explore the city that was once the gateway of India.

Sadhus, Varanasi

NORTHERN INDIA This part of India has all varieties of geography, from the regal mountain ranges to the sandy plains that stretch for miles and the dense green forests to the open expanses of snow.

Rising to about 1,200 metres, parts of northern India sit within the foothills of the mighty Himalayan Mountains.

Visit the capital of India, Delhi. The city is split into two areas: Old Delhi and New Delhi. In Old Delhi you will find the old city wall and a maze of small alleyways lined with legendary bazaars whose goods spill out onto the pavements.

New Delhi is characterised by the grandeur of 19th century buildings and wide, tree-lined boulevards.

Cruise on a converted rice barge, also known as a 'kettuvallam', along the palm-fringed waterways of Kerala for an unforgettable experience, passing ancient Chinese fishing nets, lush rice paddies, local villages, temples and coconut groves.

Journey to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ellora Caves, carved into the side of a basaltic hill. They comprise 34 monasteries and temples representing Buddhist, Hindu and Jain art and date back to the 4th and 5th centuries AD.

Take me there!

Southern India Delights

3,380

$

6 days from pp. twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Experience all that southern India has to offer, from the pristine backwaters and sleepy fishing villages to the tropical beaches.

Enticing India

Agra has a magnificent fort and is home to the building that so many people travel to India solely to see, the Taj Mahal.

7,980

$

22 days from pp. twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per

Explore colourful Rajasthan to marvel at the region’s diverse landscapes brimming with beauty. Travel across deserts, lakes and national parks.

Travel to Varanasi, a holy city which lies along the banks of the River Ganges. Pilgrims travel

Palace of the Winds, Jaipur

Take an unforgettable adventure through northern India, bursting with colourful characters, cultural wonders and intriguing history.

Rice barge, 'kettuvallam', Kerala backwaters

wendywutours.com.au

Chinese Whispers – October 2015

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In Search of

Buddha

Loyalty Rewards As loyal customers, we want to reward all the hard work that you do as a Wendy Wu ambassador. We want to recognise and thank you for telling your friends about us, for sharing your stories with your family, and for returning to travel with us year after year.

Here we outline the great benefits that you can enjoy in 2016.

In 2016 we have a fantastic new itinerary, with the inaugural departure hosted by our tour manager and Buddhism enthusiast, Christine Marshall.

Explore the life of Buddha in India and Nepal, including important locations from his life. From Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death you will have the opportunity to uncover more about the father of Buddhism.

LOYA LT Y D I S CO U N T If you are returning to travel with us, you will enjoy a loyalty discount on any fully inclusive group tour or deluxe holiday.

REFER A FRIEND Recommend us to your friends and we will send you a hamper filled with delicious treats as a special ‘thank you’ gift. Every time a new friend you have recommended books a Wendy Wu Tour and quotes your name, address and booking reference (at the time of booking) we will send a hamper, delivered straight to your door. You can refer as many friends as you like - there's no limit.

K E E P I N TO U C H Follow us, tweet, watch us on youtube or subscribe to our email newsletter.

Visit wendywutours.com.au

2nd group tour

SAVE $100 pp

3rd, 4th and 5th group tour

SAVE $200 pp

6th or more group tour

SAVE $300 pp

19 days fully inclusive From

7,480 pp. twin share

$

Departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Departs 15 Oct 2016 P R I C E I N C LU D E S : • International flights and current taxes • Domestic transportation • Accommodation • All meals • Touring with guides and entrance fees • Visa fees for Australian passport holders • Tipping (paid locally)

Return to Long Tan The Battle of Long Tan has made its mark in history as one of the most well-known Australian deployments. It saw over 100 ANZACs battle against the Viet Cong with a 1,500-2,000-strong force.

2016 marks 50 years since the battle on Vietnamese soil. In commemoration of these events, we invite you to return to Long Tan to honour those who fought and remember those who lost their lives.

Over 9 days, travel through southern Vietnam and on the 18th August, return to the iconic Long Tan battle site for a battle brief and memorial service that will coincide with the exact time of this major engagement 50 years ago.

Mekong Delta

Take me there!

Return to Long Tan

2,980

$

9 days from pp. twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd & Mel Experience southern Vietnam and a memorial service at the iconic Long Tan battle site.

Contact us for prices departing Bne, Adl, Cbr & Per Reunification Palace, Saigon

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Call: 1300 798 118 and quote Chinese Whispers

2016 at Wendy Wu! 4 different styles of touring:

584

departures

to Asia in 2016

21 years’ experience operating tours to Asia

All meals are included on Wendy Wu

Classic group tours

7 tours and new Classic 5 Over 20 new Discovery

tours in 2016

destinations

20

to choose

from

Enjoy our Grand Asia tour, which pairs a 17 night Princess Cruise with a tour of China's highlights

Extend your tour of India & Sri Lanka

Visit the Maldives International flights are included on all group tours

With so many options, take a look at our 2016/17 brochures

to help

you decide wendywutours.com.au

Chinese Whispers – October 2015

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Tour members, Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

What’s your style?

We know that every traveller is different, therefore we offer a variety of styles of touring to cater to your preference. Our Classic Tours offer a great way to explore all the highlights with everything taken care of. Our Deluxe Tours are perfect for those wanting to travel with extra comfort. Our brand new Discovery range is designed to let you further immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Asia and our independent travel and private tours are available for those wanting more flexibility and time. What’s your style? Let us help you decide…

I N D E P E N D E N T T R AV E L A N D P R I VAT E TO U R S If you are the type of person who enjoys the comfort and independence of travelling at your own pace, then our selection of independent travel packages and private tours are ideal for you.

Our short stays can be combined to design your very own bespoke itinerary, or you may choose to travel privately on one of our tried and tested group tour itineraries.

W H AT ’S I N C LU D E D I N YO U R I N D E P E N D E N T O R P R I VAT E TO U R ?

• Accommodation as chosen by you • Meals as chosen by you • All transportation and transfers • Your choice of many unique touring experiences • English speaking Local Guides and drivers

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Call: 1300 798 118 and quote Chinese Whispers

Tour members at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, China

F U L LY I N C LU S I V E C L A S S I C G R O U P TO U R S Ranging from 9 to 27 day tours taking in the main sights of your chosen destination, through to comprehensive itineraries exploring less-visited regions, our fully inclusive classic group tours are the best way to explore Asia, travelling with the assurance that all your arrangements are taken care of. Whether it’s the historical side of Beijing or the beauty of Halong Bay in Vietnam that you have longed to explore, our range of classic tours ensure you experience the absolute best of your chosen destination.

W H AT ’S I N C LU D E D I N YO U R C L A S S I C G R O U P TO U R ?

• Return international economy flights, taxes and current fuel surcharges (subject to change) • All accommodation • All meals (unless stated) • All transportation and transfers • All sightseeing and entrance fees • English speaking National Escort and Local Guides • Visa fees for Australian passport holders

Tour members at Flaming Cliffs, Mongolia

Staff member with locals

D I S CO V E RY G R O U P TO U R S Designed for those who wish to be further immersed in the authentic charm of Asia while taking in the classic sights. Trek along a remote section of the Great Wall of China, experience the magnificent Angkor Complex from the back of a rickshaw or take a jeep safari through villages in Rajasthan. Travelling in smaller groups of 20 or less, you will find yourself on an exciting journey of exploration and discovery.

W H AT ’S I N C LU D E D I N YO U R D I S CO V E RY TO U R ?

• Return international economy flights, taxes and current fuel surcharges (subject to change) • All accommodation • Most meals as stated • All transportation and transfers • Many unique cultural experiences • English speaking National Escort and Local Guides • Visa fees for Australian passport holders • Small group sizes

Cooking Demonstration

D E LU X E G R O U P TO U R S Meticulously designed with the more discerning traveller in mind, featuring unique and exclusive experiences which bring Asia to life. Gain a first-hand account of current excavation projects at the Terracotta Warriors, enjoy a cooking class in Hoi An or watch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal in India. After a day of inspiring touring, you will have the opportunity to indulge in some delectable dining experiences and stay in hand-picked hotels. You will also travel in smaller groups of 18 or less. These tours truly offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Asia in true comfort and style.

W H AT ’S I N C LU D E D I N YO U R D E LU X E TO U R ?

• Return international economy flights, taxes and current fuel surcharges (subject to change) • All accommodation • Most meals as stated • All transportation and transfers • All sightseeing and entrance fees including unique experiences • English speaking National Escort and Local Guides • Visa fees for Australian passport holders • Small group sizes wendywutours.com.au

Chinese Whispers – October 2015

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Take me there!

Angkor to the Bay

4,560

$

16 days from pp. twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd & Mel Take a voyage of discovery from the breathtaking majesty of the temples of Angkor, through to the spectacular natural grandeur of Halong Bay.

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Call: 1300 798 118 and quote Chinese Whispers

Magic mornings: Angkor and Halong Bay

By Adam Ford Asia is a busy place so finding a little ‘me time’ can be tricky. But on a recent visit to Cambodia and Vietnam with Wendy Wu Tours, Adam Ford managed a couple of early morning moments to himself at two of Indochina’s most popular tourist sites.

I grimace a little as I set my alarm for our early start tomorrow. I’m so not a morning person - especially on holiday. But then, this will be no ordinary morning. Tomorrow we get to experience the age-old splendour of one of the world’s largest and most extraordinary religious sites – the heart and soul of Cambodia – Angkor.

So, an early start it is.

Angkor is actually a series of temple complexes and our visit begins at the temple of Ta Prohm.

Nowhere is it clearer how the Angkor site was literally swallowed up and hidden by the jungle for so many centuries. Giant tree roots encircle whole sections of the temple. This is one of the best-known parts of Angkor, thanks largely to the movie Tomb Raider and Angelina Jolie – and it actually does look a lot like a movie set!

While debate rages over whether Angkor was actually ever ‘lost’, it certainly only came to the attention of the western world around the mid 19th century. Today a million visitors each year make their way to the sprawling site from nearby Siem Reap. Angkor was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992 and is now thought to have originally covered around 1,000 square kilometres. It was constructed by Khmer King Suryavarman ll in the 12th century as a Hindu place of worship, but later became a Buddhist centre.

Sunrise is one of the most popular times to visit Angkor and most early risers head straight for the main temple complex of Angkor Wat. There are only a handful of people at Ta Prohm when we arrive and I’m so glad we’ve started our day here. We almost have the site to ourselves! There’s a quiet, gentle stillness in the air as I come across a lone Buddhist monk crouched in one of the temple alcoves, praying silently. I stand watching for a moment or two, completely spellbound by the experience.

Later we make our way to majestic Angkor Wat, with its central tower topped with the five distinctive conical spires. It’s breathtaking.

The climb to the top of the central tower is

very steep, but well worth it for the spectacular views across the site. There are lots of stairs, so a good pair of walking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat are essential items of kit for any visit.

Fast forward a week or so, and I rise early a second time on this trip. But this time there’s no alarm to wake me, just the gentle rocking of our traditional junk boat floating on the tranquil waters of Halong Bay in north-eastern Vietnam. I make my way up on deck. Wow. No visit to Vietnam would be complete without a visit to Halong Bay. There are some 3,000 limestone islands and rock formations that rise majestically from the waters of the bay.

This morning we’re surrounded by towering escarpments. The water is a deep bluey green and the rocky outcrops and soaring peaks are tinged with pink in the watery early morning sunshine. It’s truly stunning. The only sound on deck is the distant chatting of the crew in the galley as the preparation of breakfast gets underway.

Curiously, until not so long ago these boats were traditional brown Chinese junks with those distinctive batwing sails. For some reason someone decided they needed a makeover and the junks have all been painted white. Consequently they now look a little like Mississippi River boats with Chinese sails.

Charming nonetheless.

There are lots of highlights of our cruise on the bay, including visits to a floating fishing village and the Thien Cung Cave complex. But for me this magical morning moment is incredibly special. I spend maybe 15 minutes enjoying the quiet stillness before the rest of the boat starts to stir.

Sometimes early starts are worth it, even on holiday.

Adam Ford is host of Tour the World on Network Ten – www.tourtheworld.com.au - and editor of The Big Bus tour and travel guide www.thebigbus.com.au. wendywutours.com.au

Chinese Whispers – October 2015

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Faces & Places

Photo competition

WINNER

THE WINNER IS‌ D N A

We are delighted to showcase the winning photo from our recent Faces & Places photo competition.

There are clearly some very talented photographers amongst you and the winner has won a $400 Paxtons voucher.

Congratulations to Helen Martin from the ACT, who took this magnificent shot of locals in Vietnam whilst on a Wendy Wu Tour. She has truly captured the moment and the culture of Vietnam and this image will feature in our Vietnam 2016/17 brochure.

Look out for any future competitions in the next issue of Chinese Whispers or keep up-to-date via Facebook and Twitter.

Helen Fletcher, Girls selling gifts, Cambodia H I G H LY CO M M E N D E D

H I G H LY CO M M E N D E D

Pauline Monaghan, Locals walking in Sapa, Vietnam

H I G H LY CO M M E N D E D

Llewenna Butt , Big Buddha in Thimpu, Bhutan 12

Call: 1300 798 118 and quote Chinese Whispers

O U R P H OTO G R A P HY T I P S For some of us, taking photos while enjoying a holiday is second nature. However, for others it can be quite a daunting task.

For those who lack confidence, here are our top travel photography tips.

B E P R E PA R E D Before you head off on your trip, remember to check your memory card is ready with lots of space, you have packed your charger and that your camera has been charged since the last time you used it!

O B S E R V E, A P P R O AC H A N D B E F R I E N D LY It’s only natural that you will want to take photos of people; however it’s important to be polite and ask their permission first.

Approach with your camera away, have a chat and mention you are taking photos and then ask for their permission before taking their photo.

Helen Martin, Locals in rice fields, Vietnam

Kids are fantastic photo subjects and a great trick to remember is to take a photo and show it to them afterwards. Often enough they’ll laugh and play up to the camera, creating an even better photo than the first.

A P P LY T H E R U L E O F T H I R D S The rule of thirds will help you create well balanced and dynamic photos. Look through your camera screen and imagine it’s divided into nine equal segments. The rule of thirds suggests the most important elements in your scene should be positioned along these lines or at the points where they intersect.

H I G H LY CO M M E N D E D

B E O N T H E LO O KO U T F O R E YE C A N DY We’re referring to patterns, repetitions and leading lines. Symmetry and patterns, both natural and man-made, are everywhere and they make great, eye-catching photos. Leading lines lead the eye into the photo and often end at one of the four intersections we mentioned above.

RISE AND SHINE ‘Golden hour’ occurs during the first hour of sunrise and sunset every day, providing photographers with beautiful light. Pay attention to the time of sunrise and sunset while you’re travelling.

For more photography tips, take a look at our blog: wendywutours.com.au/blog Sean Dargaville, Tiananmen Square, Beijing wendywutours.com.au

Chinese Whispers – October 2015

13

Bian Lian (Face changing) performance, Chengdu

48 hours in Chengdu Remarkable and unique, Chengdu is the relaxed and cheery capital of Sichuan Province and the gateway to China’s western hinterlands.

Surrounded by dramatic mountains, bamboo forests and fertile valleys, the city is famous for incredible cuisine, the welcoming local people and China’s most adorable citizens, the Giant Pandas.

The town has a history dating back over 1,700 years and has retained the charms of the Qing dynasty, with cobbled streets, temples and wooden buildings along its curving alleys.

Here’s how to spend the perfect 48 hours...

Huanglongxi, Chengdu

Day 1 MORNING You’ll need an early start to catch Chengdu’s best-loved residents at their hungriest and most active. Head out to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these adorable animals in an environment similar to their natural habitat, where they will munch through up to 20 kilos of bamboo a day. Visit in autumn or winter and you may see tiny newborns in the nursery. Next, head over to see their mischievous cousins, the Red Pandas, clambering amongst tree branches and bushes.

P I T S TO P Stroll down Jinli Street, a pedestrianised road in the old city lined with antique shops, bars and cafes. Stop at one of the snack stalls to sample skewers of spicy chicken, duck or vegetables.

AFTERNOON Drinking tea is central to life in China and nowhere is this more evident than in Chengdu.

The locals take it seriously and there is a wellestablished tea-drinking etiquette. Stop in a tea house to sample Longjing Tea and then stroll through Du Fu Cottage grounds, home to the famous 8th century poet.

Day 2 MORNING Travel to Leshan (about 1.45 hour drive from Chengdu) to visit the Grand Buddha. Located in a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is the world’s largest stone-carved Buddhist statue.

The Buddha is over 71m tall and wide enough for more than 100 people to sit between its feet.

AFTERNOON Visit Huanglongxi on your way back to the city.

TOP CHENGDU EXPERIENCES

AFTER DARK Visit Shu Jiu Xiang to sample Chengdu’s most famous and delicious dish - the Sichuan Hot Pot, accompanied by dumplings and mapo doufu (chili-tofu). Later venture to the Sichuan Opera and be amazed by the face-changing art of Bian Lian.

Take me there!

In Pursuit of Pandas S P E C I A L C H R I S T M A S D E PA R T U R E 2 0 1 5

4,360

$

11 days from pp. twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Walk on the Great Wall on Christmas Day and visit the Giant Pandas on New Year’s Eve on this special Christmas departure.

Prefer to travel in 2016?

T R Y O U R M A J E S T I C YA N G T Z E G R O U P TO U R

4,480

$

See Chengdu’s best-loved residents, the Giant Pandas 14

Take a trip to the ancient Grand Buddha in Leshan

Call: 1300 798 118 and quote Chinese Whispers

Sample local spicy Sichuan cuisine

14 days from pp. twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Explore the majestic Yangtze River, visit the Giant Pandas in Chengdu, walk along the Great Wall of China and experience the Terracotta Warriors in Xian.

Early Birds to Europe PLUS a superb cruise offer…

Singapore Airlines Holidays offer independent holidays that take in the energetic and vibrant city of Singapore, explore a wide range of short stays, stopovers and resort holidays across the Singapore Airlines and SilkAir network.

2016 Early Bird Flights to Europe

European early bird fares will be available in September for travel in 2016!

We can provide competitive fares packaged with excellent value stopovers in Singapore and car hire in Europe.

Keep an eye on our website for the latest updates.

Amazing view from Park Guell, Barcelona

Beautiful day at the Eiffel Tower, Paris

Cruise Singapore to Sydney with Star Cruises

As the flagship of Star Cruises’ Asian fleet, SuperStar Virgo features a wide range of entertainment options, luxury duty free shopping and restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. Enjoy a 17 night cruise on board SuperStar Virgo as she sails from Singapore to Sydney.

SY D / M E L /BN E /A D L

I T INE RARY DATE

DAY

20-Nov-15

Fri

ACTIVITY

Depart Australia & fly to Singapore – transfer & overnight

21-Nov-15

Sat

Enjoy a day in Singapore

22-Nov-15

Sun

Depart Singapore

23-Nov-15

Mon

Day at sea

24-Nov-15

Tue

Tanjung Priok (Jakarta, Indonesia)

25-Nov-15

Wed

Cruising Krakatoa (Indonesia)

26-Nov-15

Thu

Day at sea

27-Nov-15

Fri

Day at sea

28-Nov-15

Sat

Geraldton

29-Nov-15

Sun

Fremantle

30-Nov-15

Mon

Albany

1-Dec-15

Tue

Day at sea

2-Dec-15

Wed

Day at sea

3-Dec-15

Thu

Adelaide

4-Dec-15

Fri

Day at sea

5-Dec-15

Sat

Melbourne

6-Dec-15

Sun

Melbourne

7-Dec-15

Mon

Tasmania

8-Dec-15

Tue

Day at sea

9-Dec-15

Wed

Disembark Sydney

CABIN

TWIN SHARE PRICE

Window Stateroom

From $4,810

Balcony Stateroom

From $5,270

Prices are per person twin share.

Single supplement on request.

For more cruise itinerary options please contact our reservations department.

AMAZING INCLUDED VALUE: • One way Economy Class flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines and current airline fuel surcharge taxes (subject to change) • 2 nights pre-cruise accommodation at the York Hotel in Superior Room including Breakfast

Singapore Skyline

• Private transfers from Changi airport to hotel and from your hotel to Singapore port • 17 nights’ accommodation on board the SuperStar Virgo • Port Charges and Taxes • Choice between a Fully Inclusive Dining or Beverage Package for your cruise

SuperStar Virgo

T E R M S & CONDI TI ONS: Singapore Airlines Holidays is operated by Wendy Wu Tours Pty Ltd. This literature was correct at printing on 27 August 2015. Prices are per person twin share based on two people sharing a twin room/cabin. Flights in Economy Class with Singapore Airlines departing; SYD, MEL, BNE, ADL and PER. Airline fuel surcharge included and subject to change. Due to flight schedules, passengers may be required to stop overnight in Singapore at an additional cost. All packages are subject to air and land availability and prices are subject to specific airfare class.

Surcharges will apply once airfare class is sold out. Pre-cruise accommodation is based on the York Hotel Singapore and is subject to availability. Passengers must make their own arrangements at the conclusion of the cruise in Sydney. Please see our full terms and conditions at www.siaholidays.com.au/terms. ATAS10517.

Call 1300 728 998 singaporeairlinesholidays.com.au Or see your local travel agent

Why book with Wendy Wu Tours 21 years’ operating tours to Asia knowledge and expertise Unrivalled

range of Fully Inclusive Classic Tours, Discovery Tours, Comprehensive

Deluxe Tours, private and tailor-made holidays inclusive prices with no hidden extras Fully

epic journeys and unique, rarely visited destinations Exciting

National Escorts and Local Guides Expert

hotels and comfortable transportation Quality

1300 798 118

wendywutours.com.au info@wendywutours.com.au or contact your local travel agent Wendy Wu Tours Level 6, 20 Hunter Street Sydney NSW 2000

2016/17 brochures available to order now!

CONDITIONS: Customers booking holidays from this literature will be bound by our full booking conditions which, together with the booking form, can be found online at wendywutours.com.au or in any of our brochures. Tour prices are per person twin share. Additional departures may be available with seasonal surcharges. Airline fuel surcharge and tipping is included and subject to change. Tours are subject to availability and prices are subject to specific airfare class. Surcharges will apply once airfare class is sold out.

Due to airline schedules, some passengers may require a stopover or pre/post tour accommodation at an additional cost. Refer to specific tour for details which can be found on our website. Tours flying Vietnam Airlines: passengers departing Canberra, Adelaide and Brisbane will fly with QANTAS or Virgin Australia to connect with Vietnam Airlines departing Sydney or Melbourne. Availability and pricing correct at time of printing 20 August 2015. Tour details, itineraries and booking conditions are specified in the Wendy Wu Tours brochures or at wendywutours.com.au. $200 saving: Saving of $200 per person is applicable to selected Discovery and Deluxe tours and departures as indicated in our September supplement. Offer valid for new bookings made before 31 October 2015 and cannot be used in in conjunction with any other offer. Not valid for land only arrangements. Savings are not included in the prices featured in the supplement.

Loyalty discount: Our loyalty discount does not apply to tailor-made itineraries, independent travel, special groups, or to our Simply range of tours.

Refer a friend conditions: To be eligible for the ‘refer a friend’ offer you must have a current or previously deposited Wendy Wu Tours booking. One hamper per new booking will be distributed. The referee must quote your full name, booking number and address at the time of their booking. Your hamper will be distributed upon receipt of their deposit. Your friend must be a new customer who has not previously booked with Wendy Wu Tours. We will contact you to arrange delivery of your hamper. Hampers will be delivered at the start of the calendar month. We regret we cannot apply this offer retrospectively.

China • Vietnam • India • Cambodia • Laos • Japan • Thailand • Sri Lanka • Nepal • Myanmar Tibet • Mongolia • Bhutan • Sikkim • Hong Kong • Singapore • Borneo • Taiwan • South Korea • Maldives

ATAS: A10517