EU TRAVEL JOURNAL - CENTRAL EUROPE (NOV 2015 - MAR 2016)

CENTRAL

EUROPE Winter Nov 2015 - Mar 2016

Sledging on

Jungfraw TM

+

Switzerland

Austria•Belgium•Italy•France•Germany Monaco•Netherlands•Great Britain

TRAVEL JOURNAL

ABOUT EU HOLIDAYS EU Holidays was founded by a group of experienced directors passionate about their work in the travel industry. They wanted to do something new that could better serve the travel needs of consumers, which is the main driving force behind the establishment of our travel agency.

VISION AND MISSION

PROGRESS AND MILESTONES

EU Holidays devotes our whole energy towards focusing on long haul package tours, which is our main differentiating factor from other travel agencies. We narrowed our attention to areas such as Europe, USA, Middle East and some of the more exotic locations as these are the leading travel destinations for locals in recent years. At EU Holidays, we want to establish our position as the leading professional agency that specializes in Europe and USA leisure travel package tours for the local market.

In EU Holidays, we want to take the hassle out of travelling, so as to let our customers fully experience their vacation without worrying over any details. Whether it is to relax and relieve stress, enjoy fun and exciting activities, explore new places, or learn and discover new knowledge, EU Holidays has a wide variety of itineraries that is sure to satisfy your travel needs. We want EU customers to have faith that each time they book with EU Holidays, they will be embarking on the best adventure of their lives.

At EU Holidays, we take pride in providing our customers with excellent service by undergoing professional training and motivation courses and workshops. EU customers can easily meet our friendly and reliable staff face-to-face at the various travel fairs, outdoor roadshows and events that we participate in.

Our staffs are all committed to go the extra mile to please our customers and give them their dream vacation.

Within five years of business operations, we have expanded EU Holidays and opened up three other subsidiary offices to focus on the various needs of our customers. The EU MICE office was set up in 2013 to cater for corporate travel with a focus on corporate meetings, conventions and events. In that same year, EU Asia was launched to cater for customers who are interested in travelling within Asia. In the following year, we opened up EU Vacations to serve the Malaysian market. In doing so, EU Holidays strives to constantly improve our products and services so that we can better serve our customers.

Despite being a young company, EU Holidays has gained significant recognition from both customers and industry professionals. Founded in late 2010, EU Holidays was voted Top MasterCard Supporter in NATAS Travel, from as early as 2012 for four consecutive years. After just two years in business, EU Holidays was presented with two valuable awards – the Asia Excellence Award 2013 and the Singapore Excellence Award 2013. During the later half of the year, we also received the Singapore Quality Brands 2014 award. Since 2012, EU Holidays was named the ‘Best Travel Agency for Europe and USA Tours’ as voted by readers of ESCAPE! travel magazine. For two years running since 2014, we have also been awarded with the Weekender Travellers’ Choice Award as No. 1 for Europe and USA tours, voted by their readers.

EUROPE

USA

ITINERARIES

6 12 18 22 26 30 34 38 42 48 52 56

13D Italy Switzerland France ECERPW

CONTENTS

11D Fairy Tale Germany Switzerland France ECSPSW

15D Europe Discovery ECDISA

11D Europe Highlights ECCHLA

13D Indulgence France ECFRWA

12D All-in-Europe Footprint ECCFPA

10D London Paris Brussels Amsterdam ECLPAA

10D Pure Alps Switzerland ECSWWW

6

10D Mamma Mia Italy ECCITA

11D South Italy, Sicily + Malta ECITSA

12D Romantic Italy + Monte Carlo ECITWA

12D Fall in Love with Europe ECFILA

FEATURES

4 9 10 11 16 17 46

Winter in Europe

Reasons, tips & tricks for a trip to Europe this Winter

Hotels

All the comforts you need for an indulgent restful stay

The Alps

Indulge in the most magnificent natural sights in Europe

Swiss Fondue

The bubbling goodness of this Swiss national dish

London

Why you need to be in London for its finest attractions

Amsterdam

A city jam packed with history, culture and festivals

Cinque Terre

46

56

PUBLISHING CONSULTANT Managing Publisher Executive Manager Admin Executive Writers Designers

Cecilia Woo Lilian Quek Melisah Roslan Cherlyn Ang, Angela Low, Nina Gee Ng Peiling, Syrus Kwan

EU Holidays Travel Journals are published by WWM PTE LTD for EU Holidays.

Cover image by 123RF/Alicephoto. Standing and walking stick figure images, cruise, high speed train vectors and maps used in this brochure are derived from originals designed by Freepik.

No part of this publication is to be reproduced, stored, transmitted, digitally or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher. The information contained herein is accurate at time of printing. Changes may have occurred since this magazine went to print. The publisher will not be held liable for any damages, loss, injury or inconvenience, arising in connection with the contents of the brochure.

The beauty of quaint villages on cliffs over the Ligurian sea

EU Holidays | Central Europe 1

EXTRA MILES, EXTRA SMILES KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

When it comes to travel, there is nobody more passionate and enthusiastic than the staff at EU Holidays. Our employee’s love and dedication for their jobs drive them to deliver quality services. They are trained to be caring and attentive to every detail of what the customer desires, providing the best support that caters to their individual needs.

DIVERSE CHOICES & OPTIONS EU Holidays is well-known for our ability to design different types of itinerary to cater to different clienteles. Each itinerary is specially personalised to fit every customer’s needs, wants and interests. The option to extend your stay can even be arranged for your itinerary. New itineraries are also launched on a regular basis because we believe in creating an original and exclusive experience for our customers. EU Holidays takes special effort to craft a wide variety of unique itineraries that customers can choose from. The range of itineraries vary from premium to cost saving, active to relaxing tours, and intensive coverage or country focus packages. We also work directly with our partners to provide our customers with special privileges and additional perks for their trips.

PHOTO: 123RF/KATI MOLIN

Our staff members are armed with vast travel knowledge and invaluable experience so as to assist our customers by giving the best advice to suit their needs. The company equips all staff with top quality and comprehensive in-house training, on-job training, and external courses lead by professionals in the field. These courses concentrate on providing our staff with the knowledge of giving the best travel experience in Europe and USA. This is an essential aspect of EU Holidays as we aim to give each and every customer an unforgettable holiday.

PASSION & LOVE

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INNOVATING TRENDSETTERS

EXCELLENT QUALITY MADE AFFORDABLE

REPUTATION AND AWARD WINNING

EU Holidays has always strived to stay ahead of the latest trends, especially for travel and technology. Our company was the first travel agency to introduce exclusive tours to the Norway Arctic Circle, and brought about the popular trend of travelling to Finland.

In order to provide our customers with unforgettable experiences when travelling with EU Holidays, we make the effort to reach out to organizations and companies overseas to obtain the best arrangements for activities and accommodations for our tour packages. For our Northern Europe tours, we have specially arranged for customers to stay in the newly launched and more spacious glass igloos in Finland. We are also the sole distributing partner for exclusive sledging activities on Mt. Bussalp for our Switzerland tours.

Quality should not be compromised for affordability. That is why here at EU Holidays, we believe in having the best of both worlds.

Our tour packages are customised to be the best value for your money. Offered at an attractive rate, our packages are packed with 4-5 star hotel stays, scrumptious meals, and an experience of a last time. EU Holidays is the only agency that offers you a night’s stay in a 5-star Hilton hotel on Venice islands as well as a 5-star Heritage hotel for your accommodation in Interlaken.

EU Holidays has the prestigious honour of receiving many awards such as the Asia Excellence Award 2013 and the Singapore Excellence Award 2013. Both ESCAPE! and Weekender travel magazines have also awarded EU Holidays as the No. 1 Reader’s Choice for Europe and USA tours. Our company has been recognized for our outstanding service, and also earned us a strong following of loyal customers.

WE’LL DO IT FOR YOU EU Holidays | Central Europe 3

WINTER IN EUROPE

I

f you are putting off your dream holiday to Europe in consideration of the costs, hesitate no further. Travelling to Europe is a lot cheaper in during the winter season, as hotels and attractions have off-season bargains.

Europe remains one of the most visited regions in the world.

Travelers flocking there during peak travel seasons – especially in summer – have to contend with huge crowds of visitors at popular attractions. In contrast, touring in the chilly season will give you more breathing room to explore Europe’s streets and landmarks when they are cleared of the hordes of tourists. Get greater, more spectacular, close-up views of popular attractions along with quaint and vivid photographs, crowd-free with a gorgeous sprinkling of frost doubling the memorableness of the trip.

Embrace the frosty weather and enjoy the special events and

4 Central Europe | EU Holidays

activities that are exclusive to the winter season in Europe. Winter sports are a must-have on a winter trip – take this opportunity to try skiing, snowboarding, sledding or ice-skating, just to name a few.

For our winter itineraries, we have arranged for an exclusive sledge run down the longest sledge course in Europe up on Mt. Bussalp with a spectacular view of the highest peaks in Switzerland.

Europe is also home to some of the most amazing Christmas markets and festivals, such as the Marche de Noel Christmas Market, where you can find merchants selling handcrafted gift items, Christmas cakes and biscuits, and last but not least, their special mulled wine. Indulge in the festive atmosphere with their beautiful Christmas decorations and illuminations up on display and local musical entertainment.

PHOTO: 123RF/RAWGROUP

Escape Singapore’s sweltering heat and jet off to Europe during their winter season, where you get to enjoy special perks despite the cold and wet weather

FEATURE GREAT BRITAIN NETHERLANDS BELGIUM

GERMANY

LUXEMBOURG

AUSTRIA

FRANCE

ITALY SWITZERLAND

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES REGIONS

PERIOD

TEMP °C

Northern Regions (Austria, Belgium, Germany, Great Britain Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland)

Nov-Dec

-12 to 6

Jan-Mar

-14 to 7

Southern Regions (Italy, Southern France)

Nov-Dec

-6 to 17

Jan-Mar

-8 to 16

WHAT TO WEAR

PROTECTING YOUR SKIN

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•

• •

• •

Wear thermals or multiple layers of clothes under a thick winter coat to protect yourself from the cold.

Choose waterproof coats to keep your body dry from the wet snow and retain body heat.

Accessories like earmuffs, gloves, mittens, hats, scarves and socks are necessary to keep the vulnerable areas of your body from the dangers of frostbite and hypothermia.

A thick, sturdy pair of boots is strongly recommended for safe trekking across the snow and ice.

Athletic shoes may also suffice in warmer winter weather, but do pair it with thick, high cut socks.

•

•

•

During winter in Europe, humidity levels are 20 per cent lower than that of Singapore, whereas in indoor areas humidity levels may drop up to 50 per cent lower as compared to Singapore due to the heating systems.

Do remember to moisturize your skin at intervals to shield it from the dry winter weather and prevent it from cracking. Apply lip balm regularly to keep your lips moisturized as well. This is to ensure maximum comfort during your winter trip.

The ozone layer which shields most of the sun’s rays is at its thinnest during winter, and snow and ice are able to reflect up to 80 per cent of UV rays, so sunblock is another essential item to bring along on your trip.

It is recommended that you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every 2-3 hours.

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ITALY SWITZERLAND FRANCE Revel in the rich history and culture Europe as you catch a glimpse of ancient Rome as you wander on the streets of Italy, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Switzerland, and bask in France’s art and culture.

VENICE, ITALY

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PHOTO: 123RF/JAKOBRADLGRUBER

TOUR CODE: ECERPW

HIGHLIGHTS ITALY

SWITZERLAND

ROME • Vatican City • St. Peter’s Basilica • Colosseum (Entrance included) • Roman Forum • Trevi Fountain SIENA • Chiantishire • Historic Centre PISA • Piazza del Miracoli • Leaning Tower of Pisa TUSCANY • Barberino Factory Outlet VENICE’S ISLANDS • St. Mark’s Square • Doge’s Palace • Bridge of Sighs • Glass blowing factory MILAN • Sforza Castle • Milan Cathedral • La Scala Opera House • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

SWISS RIVIERA • Montreux • Marché de Nöel Christmas Market INTERLAKEN • Lake Thun & the Alps • View overlooking the Jungfrau LUCERNE • Old Chapel Bridge • Old Town • Aion Rolling Ball Clock • Bucherer • Lion Monument • Overnight in Lorraine Region

GERMANY BADENWÜRTTEMBERG • Lake Titisee in Black Forest

GERMANY

2 Paris

FRANCE PARIS • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower (Entrance to 2nd level) • Galeries Lafayette RHÔNE-ALPES • Èvian-les-Bains

1

Lorraine Region

FRANCE

Lake Titisee

Interlaken Montreux

1

Meal Plan 10 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 6 Dinners

Specialities • 3-course Tuscan dinner with wine • 4-course Swiss fondue combo dinner • 3-course French dinner • 3-course German Pork Knuckle with Black Forest Cake

4-5★ HOTELS ROME Novotel TUSCANY Art Museo VENICE Hilton Molino Stucky MILAN Hilton/Radisson Blu FRENCH RIVIERA Hilton INTERLAKEN Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage LUCERNE Lakeside Hotel LORRAINE Novotel/Mercure PARIS Courtyard by Marriott/Novotel *Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

Lucerne

1

Èvian-les-Bains

1

1 Venice’s Islands

Milan

Pisa

Tuscany

1

Siena

Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

Rome

1

ITALY

EXCLUSIVE • Group sledging activity on the longest snow route on Mt. Bussalp in the Swiss Alps • Stay on Venice’s Islands DAY 1

SINGAPORE → ROME Meals on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to Rome.

DAY 2

ROME Lunch – Local Fare

DELICACIES

SWITZERLAND

1

Start the day with a visit to the Vatican City and feast your eyes upon St. Peter’s Basilica, a Catholic shrine renowned for its Renaissance architecture. Wonder at the magnificent sight of the Colosseum on a tour in the largest amphitheatre ever built with its capacity of up to 80,000. Pass by the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, with its archaic buildings and shrines including the ancient former royal residence.

Piazza Venezia is located a short walk away with a massive monument dedicated to the first King of Italy. Then, marvel at the masterpiece of Trevi Fountain, the city’s largest Baroque fountain.

declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stop by the Siena Cathedral, one of Italy’s top Gothic cathedrals decorated with intricate carvings and statues. Capture stunning photos at the Piazza del Campo, known for its architectural beauty as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares and visit the Palazzo del Comune, a Renaissance town hall. Finally, head into Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli to round up the day with their iconic attractions: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistery, and the Cathedral.

DAY 4

TUSCANY → VENICE’S ISLANDS Breakfast

DAY 3

Spend some time in shopping heaven at the Barberino Designer Outlet with over 100 brand boutiques selling everything from clothes and cosmetics to appliances and shoes. With great buys of up to 70% discount from prominent brands like Prada, D&G, Furla, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, no one is likely to leave empty-handed. Spend the night in a luxurious 5-star Hilton hotel on Venice’s Islands.

Breakfast, Tuscan Dinner with Wine

Note: A 2-way poterage service will be provided to Hilton Molino Stucky on Venice’s Islands.

ROME → SIENA → PISA → TUSCANY Escape from the city and make your way to the picturesque Medieval Village in Chiantishire, a delightful stretch of countryside located in Siena. Explore the winding streets in the historic centre of Siena, a well-preserved city that was

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13D10N ITALY SWITZERLAND FRANCE DAY 5

VENICE’S ISLANDS → MILAN Breakfast, Dinner – Local Fare

Board a unique water taxi that will take you to Venice’s city centre and set of on a tour of St. Mark’s Square and the famous St. Mark’s Basilica – nicknamed the ‘church of gold’ due to its opulent design and gold mosaics. Swing by the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, two of Venice’s main landmarks, for some momentous pictures.

Lastly, visit a glass blowing factory to learn more about the art of Murano glassmaking, an elite trade unique to Venice.

DAY 6

MILAN → ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS

SLEDGING ON MT. BUSSALP, SWITZERLAND

Breakfast, Lunch

The first stop of the day is the Sforza Castle, a fortress once home to noble lords of Milan.

Drop by the grandiose Milan Cathedral for shots of the elaborate Gothic exterior façade.

Next, take a shopping trip through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II leading to the Piazza della Scala where a statue monument of Leonardo da Vinci is located. Stop by the lavish La Scala Opera House for some pictures before we move on to Switzerland via the Great St. Bernard Tunnel. Enjoy the spectacular view of Mont Blanc and its surroundings as we make our way to Évianles-Bains, renowned for its Evian springs and source of the famous Evian mineral water.

Wind down at the panoramic Lake Geneva and view the sprawling Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, the only vineyard that made it in to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

DAY 7

ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS → SWISS RIVIERA → MONTREUX → INTERLAKEN Breakfast, Dinner – Swiss Fondue Combo

Journey to Montreux and stop by the impressive 1000-year-old Chillon Castle for pictures. Enjoy Christmas shopping at the Montreux Marché de Nöel Christmas Market and immerse yourself in their festivities (only valid 20 Nov – 24 Dec 2015).

As night falls, enjoy a 4-course Swiss fondue combo dinner at the Swiss-themed Bebbis Restaurant in Interlaken.

through the various obstacle courses on the 7.6km long sledge run; the longest in Europe.

You may also wish to embark on an optional scenic railway trip to Kleine Scheidegg mountain pass, a famous ski resort area, to admire the passing scenic valleys and the Glacier Falls, as well as the iconic peaks of Mt. Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.

famed monument erected in honour of the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower for a panoramic view over Paris from the second level, then head over to the Galeries Lafayette – the biggest department store in Paris for souvenir shopping (subject to store’s operating hours).

DAY 9

DAY 11

Breakfast, Black Forest Lunch, Dinner – 3-course French Fare

Breakfast

LUCERNE → LORRAINE REGION Visit the Old Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden bridge in Switzerland decorated with old paintings under its roof. Enjoy a walking tour of Lucerne’s Old Town with its characteristic Renaissance architecture.

Here, you will find Bucherer, the largest duty-free store in Switzerland, and its famed attraction, the Aion Rolling Ball Clock.

Drop by the Lion Monument – a gift from France to Switzerland to commemorate the valour of the Swiss mercenary soldiers who lost their lives serving King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Then, cross the border over to the enchanting Black Forest in Germany and indulge in an authentic Black Forest lunch. Make your way to Lake Titisee to attend a demonstration on cuckoo-clock making.

PARIS

Enjoy a free day of leisure, shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure. You may wish to enjoy optional activities: a scenic Seine River cruise or a Moulin Rouge show.

DAY 12

PARIS → SINGAPORE

Breakfast, Meals on Board

Leisurely enjoy the rest of the day till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 13

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 10 DAY 8

INTERLAKEN → LUCERNE Breakfast

Prepare for a day filled with endless fun and activities as you board a specially designed Snow Bus for a comfortable ride up to Mt. Bussalp. Enjoy marvellous views of the Jungfrau’s snowy peaks as you sledge

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LORRAINE REGION → PARIS Breakfast, Lunch

Begin your Paris adventure with a guided tour of the city – take in the sights of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum with its iconic Louvre Pyramid, and the Palais Garnier Paris Opera House. Stop at the Arc de Triomphe, a

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Winter activities are subject to weather conditions.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

HOTELS

FEATURE

LINDNER GRAND HOTEL BEAU RIVAGE

INTERLAKEN, SWITZERLAND Situated on the banks of the river Aare in Interlaken, the Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage boasts picturesque views of the famous Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau peaks and the beautiful surrounding riverscape. A mere stone’s throw away from the city centre and the Interlaken OST railway station, the hotel is the perfect set-off point for your activities in the peaks due to its convenient location. Built more than 140 years ago, the Heritage Hotel has undergone a major facelift in recent years to provide all the modern comforts while still retaining its 1870s traditional elegance. Take your pick from 101 tastefully furnished guest rooms, some of which comes with an attached balcony or loggia with spectacular views. After an action-packed day in the mountains, unwind with a glass of wine and soothing piano accompaniment in the Le Vieux Rivage bar or awaken your tastebuds with the delights of Swiss cuisine in the La Bonne Fourchette restaurant. Guests can also opt to relax in the indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam bath, re-energize with a session in the gym or indulge in luxurious beauty and spa treatments. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi for all guests travelling as part of EU Holidays. www.lindner.de/en/LGHBR

ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS, FRANCE Sitting along the shores of Lake Geneva, the Hilton Évian-les-Bains hotel offers breathtaking views overlooking pristine waters backed by the dramatic peaks of the French Alps. Set in the heart of the city, the lakeside hotel is within walking distance to shops, restaurants and popular attractions, among which includes the springs of Évian-lesBains - source of the renowned Evian spring water, and the biggest theme casino in France. Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, expect spacious guest rooms offering views into the city, lakeside and alpine. Complementing your stay are a bar and two restaurants that serves up French and European delicacies, a unique Buddha-Bar Spa offering beauty treatments and massage as well as a fitness centre, indoor and outdoor pools catered for fans of exercise. www3.hilton.com/en

HILTON MOLINO STUCKY

VENICE’S ISLANDS, ITALY A hotel designed with convenience of its guests in mind, Hilton Molino Stucky is just five-minutes on shuttle boat rides to renowned historical sites for explorations of the renowned ‘Floating City’. Built in the epicentre of the scenic group of islands known as Giudecca, Hilton Molino Stucky offers the most stunning views of Venice and the Grand Canal from its 367 tastefully furnished guest rooms and suites. Retire from your odyssey in Venice to the comforts of its rooms and dine at its seven acclaimed bars and restaurants, including Aromi and its open-air feasts of the most delectable courses on a terrace by the gorgeous canal. Sip at cocktails over the spectacular view of Venice’s remarkable panorama at the Skyline Rooftop Bar, or luxuriate in the well-equipped wellness centre and bathe in their ornate Turkish bath. http://molinostuckyhilton.com/

EU Holidays | Central Europe 9

PHOTOS: LINDNER GRAND HOTEL BEAU RIVAGE, HILTON EVIAN-LES-BAINS, HILTON MOLINO STUCKY

HILTON

FEATURE

THE ALPS Indulge in the most magnificent natural sights in Europe

JUNGFRAU

T

he Alps is one of the largest, highest and most extensive mountain range systems in the world. It is located in south-central Europe and extends for approximately 1,200 kilometres starting from the coastline of southern France and continuing through northern Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Austria before turning southward down into Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Montenegro before ending in Albania. Most Alpine peaks range between 1,800 – 2,500 metres above sea level, but hundreds of the highest peaks in the Alps actually exceed altitudes of 4,000 metres, such as Mt. Blanc, Rosa and the Matterhorn.

MT. GRINDELWALD MATTERHORN, PENNINE ALPS, SWITZERLAND

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The Alps is also considered the birthplace of Alpine activities, such as hiking, climbing and mountaineering. During winter season, make a point to visit some of the Alpine resorts that offer activities such as skiing, skating, snowboarding, tobogganing and curling – these are guaranteed to be the best experience of your winter trip. Furthermore, enjoy an exclusive group sledging activity on the longest sledge route in Switzerland – a 7.6 kilometres run on Mt. Bussalp.

If you are not one for such exhilarating

activities, you can always opt for other more convenient and scenic ways to experience the Alpine peaks. There are cable cars, funiculars and trains that allow you to fully appreciate the beautiful sceneries while travelling up to the mountaintops in full comfort. One of the best known Alpine attraction is the scenic railway trip to Kleine Scheidegg mountain pass, a famous ski resort area, to admire the passing scenic valleys and the Glacier Falls, as well as the iconic peaks of Mt. Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.

PHOTOS: 123RF/EVA BOCEKOVA

KLEINE SCHEIDEGG

SWISS FONDUE

FEATURE

BOURGUIGNONNE MEAT FONDUE

PHOTOS: 123RF/MARIDAV, YASUHIRO AMANO, VALERIO PARDI

T

CHEESE FONDUE

ake a breather from the frigid wind and frost for the cosy indoors of quaint restaurants for a serving of world renowned Swiss fondue.

Traditionally prepared with high quality shredded cheeses – often, Emmentaler, Gruyère, Comté or a combination of them – over open flames on a chafing stand and served with freshly cut bread or meat cubes carefully speared on long-stemmed fondue forks, the mouthwatering fondue is meant to be enjoyed with a selection of warmed wines and tea. Some recipes demand the inclusion of kirsch – a fruit brandy made from morello cherries, or the host’s specialty mixes of chocolate and other delectable ingredients.

Aside from cheese-oriented pots, variations of the fondue are available in our itineraries. Relish in a dip of fruits in coated with smooth succulent chocolate

CHOCOLATE FONDUE

fondue, or crisp meat pieces, seasoned meatballs and potato cubes in bubbling Bourguignonne fondue pots of specially prepared spiced oil or broth.

Almost exclusively consumed in winter months by locals and highly prized as the country’s national dish, the Swiss cheese fondue is a must-have for any traveller to the land of chocolate and cheese. Do look out for this most savoury platter in the “Delicacies” section of our itineraries.

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FAIRY TALE GERMANY SWITZERLAND FRANCE Wake up to unbelievably gorgeous snowy landscapes in the wintry white wonderland of Switzerland, and re-discover the City of Light in its full winter glory when its streets and landmarks are blanketed with snow, reflecting sombre elegance in the dusky evening light.

NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE, BAVARIA, GERMANY

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PHOTO: 123RF/ANDREAS ZERNDL

TOUR CODE: ECSPSW

HIGHLIGHTS GERMANY BADENWÜRTTEMBERG • Lake Titisee in Black Forest FUSSEN • Neuschwanstein Castle (Entrance included)

SWITZERLAND SCHAFFHAUSEN • Rhine Falls LUCERNE • Old Chapel Bridge • Old Town • Aion Rolling Ball Clock • Lion Monument BERN • Zytglogge Clock Tower • Bear Pit • UNESCO World Heritage Old Town INTERLAKEN • Mt. Bussalp in the Swiss Alps • View overlooking the Jungfrau

SWISS RIVIERA • Montreux • Chillon Castle • Marché de Nöel Christmas Market

GERMANY

2 Paris

Lake Titisee

FRANCE RHÔNE-ALPES • Èvian-les-Bains • Yvoire • Overnight in Burgundy Region PARIS • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower (Entrance to 2nd level) • Galeries Lafayette

Burgundy 1

FRANCE

Bern

Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners

Specialities • 3-course German Pork Knuckle with Black Forest Cake • 4-course Swiss fondue combo dinner • 4-course French dinner

4-5★ HOTELS FUSSEN Sonne LUCERNE Lakeside Hotel INTERLAKEN Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS Hilton BURGUNDY Novotel/Holiday Inn PARIS Courtyard by Marriott/Novotel *Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

1

Montreux

1 2 Lucerne

Yvoire Geneva

1

EXCLUSIVE Group sledging activity on the longest snow route on Mt. Bussalp in the Swiss Alps

Schaffhausen

SWITZERLAND

Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

Èvian-les-Bains

in Black Forest and attend a cuckoo clock making demonstration in Titisee-Neustadt.

Enjoy their special delicacies such as the German Pork Knuckle and Black Forest Cake for lunch, before heading to Lucerne for your night’s stay at one of their popular lakeside hotels.

DAY 1

SINGAPORE → MUNICH Meals on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for Munich.

DAY 2

DELICACIES

Fussen Munich

Interlaken

MUNICH → FUSSEN Breakfast

Begin your orientation tour of Munich in its Old Town, where you will find the city’s top attractions such as the Marienplatz – home to the Old and New Town Halls, the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady whose twin towers are visible in Munich’s skyline, the majestic Residence Palace of Munich and many others, all within walking distance of each other. Thereafter, make your way to the town of Fussen to enter Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most popular of all palaces and castles in Europe. The castle was built as a place of retreat for the King Ludwig II, and became a medieval dream world filled with all of his longing and ideals.

DAY 3

FUSSEN → LAKE TITISEE → SCHAFFHAUSEN → LUCERNE

Lunch – 3-course German Pork Knuckle with Black Forest Cake

Get off to a great start with a visit to the largest waterfall in the whole of Europe – the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen, and let the scene of wild, churning waters mesmerize you. Then make your way to Lake Titisee

DAY 4

LUCERNE → BERN → INTERLAKEN

Breakfast, 4-course Swiss Fondue Dinner

Embark on a tour of Lucerne: visit the Old Chapel Bridge – the oldest wooden bridge in Switzerland, Old Town Lucerne with its unspoiled buildings covered with colourful murals and the Lion Monument. Then, proceed on to Bern for an orientation tour of the city – explore its UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town on foot and visit the Bear Pit, the astronomical clock tower Zytglogge and the Einstein House. As night falls, enjoy a 4-course Swiss fondue combo dinner at the famous Swiss-themed Bebbis Restaurant in Interlaken.

DAY 5

INTERLAKEN → MT. BUSSALP → INTERLAKEN Breakfast

Prepare for a day filled with endless fun and activities as you board a specially designed Snow Bus for a comfortable ride up to Mt. Bussalp. Enjoy marvellous views of the Jungfrau’s snowy peaks as you sledge through the various obstacle courses on the 7.6km long sledge run; the longest in Europe.

You may also wish to embark on an optional scenic railway trip to Kleine Scheidegg mountain pass, a famous ski resort area, to admire the passing scenic valleys and the Glacier Falls, as well as the iconic peaks of Mt. Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 13

11D8N FAIRY TALE GERMANY SWITZERLAND FRANCE

SLEDGING ON MT. BUSSALP

DAY 6

INTERLAKEN → MONTREUX → ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS Breakfast, Dinner

Journey to Montreux and stop by the impressive 1000-year-old Chillon Castle for some pictures. Enjoy Christmas shopping at the Montreux Marché de Nöel Christmas Market and immerse yourself in their festivities (only valid 20 Nov – 24 Dec 2015).

Then, go on a jaunt to Évian-les-Bains, renowned for its Evian springs and source of the famous Evian mineral water.

DAY 7

ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS → YVOIRE → GENEVA → BURGUNDY Breakfast, 4-course French Dinner

Start off with a tour of Yvoire, a medieval village located on the shore of Lake Geneva.

With 700 years of history, this hidden gem is one of France’s most beautiful villages and also ranked as one of the International Laureates of Floral Decorations. Next, take an excursion through Geneva, where you get to check out the World Health Organization headquarters, the International Labour Organization, the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations Office. Pay a visit to the Jet d’Eau, one of Geneva’s

14 Central Europe | EU Holidays

most prominent landmarks that is visible throughout the city and even from the air.

Drop by the L’horloge fleurie, a massive flower clock decorated by seasonal floral arrangements.

DAY 9

PARIS Breakfast

DAY 8

Enjoy a free day of leisure, shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure. You may wish to enjoy optional activities: a scenic Seine River cruise or a Moulin Rouge show.

Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 10

BURGUNDY → PARIS Begin your Paris adventure with a guided tour of the city – take in the sights of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum and its iconic Louvre Pyramid, and the Palais Garnier Paris Opera House. Stop at the Arc de Triomphe, a famed monument erected in honour of the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower for a panoramic view over Paris from the second level, then head over to the Galeries Lafayette – the biggest department store in Paris for souvenir shopping (subject to store’s operating hours).

Note: The Galeries Lafayette is closed on Sundays and on Christmas Day.

PARIS → SINGAPORE

Breakfast, Meals on Board

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 11

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Winter activities are subject to weather conditions.

• Hotel upgrades are subject to hotel room availability.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

FEATURE

LONDON The London theatre, the unique street shops and distinctive attractions are reasons why you need to visit this vibrant city.

L

16 Central Europe | EU Holidays

ADD ON FOR ECSPSW & ECERPW ONLY

4D2N LONDON EXTENSION 3★ HOTEL Ibis Earls Court or similar

DAY 1

DAY 3

Breakfast, Lunch

Breakfast, Meals on Board

PARIS → LONDON Make your way to London via Eurostar – a high speed train service that traverse the Channel Tunnel underneath the English Channel. Get a glimpse of the wonders of London through a guided tour – take in the sights of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, the Prime Minister’s Office at 10 Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, London Bridge and many other London attractions. Then, transfer back to your hotel in London.

LONDON → SINGAPORE Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 4

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 2

LONDON Breakfast

Enjoy a free day of leisure for some shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure.

You may wish to make an optional visit to the famous Madame Tussauds Wax Museum for a photo session with some of your favourite celebrities and icons, or simply shop in pleasure in Harrods, the largest departmental store in London.

Note: If a minimum group size of 15 is not met, the tour manager will not be following the group to London. Instead, the London tour will be conducted by a local guide.

PHOTO: 123RF/SBORISOV

ondon – a thriving metropolis that is quite unlike anywhere else in the world. As the largest city in Europe, London is not only one of the oldest and top ranking financial centre in the world, but also the political, economic and cultural capital of the United Kingdom. With history stretching back over thousands of years, London perfectly captures the merging of the modern with historic with their iconic attractions and landmarks, among which include four UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, the Maritime Greenwich, the Tower of London and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, London is home to over 170 museums, including 11 national museums, and 857 art galleries, many of which offer free admission. Whatever your interest in art and history, you can be certain you will find a museum that caters to your taste.

Looking for something more eclectic? Just head to the streets – we recommend the Leake Street Tunnel in Waterloo – where you will find all sorts of street art and strike up conversations with the artists there.

Admirers of theatre, look no further than London’s best theatre scene in West End, where you can take your pick from the famous classic plays and musicals or brand new works.

Also named ‘the city of fog’, London is famous for its unpredictable weather, where rain and fog is common due to the humid weather. Learn from the locals and bring along a pair of sunglasses and umbrella in your bag, so that you can enjoy the city without the weather putting a damper on your plans. Embrace the wind, rain and fog as they add on a different enigmatic mood to the usual sights of London.

FEATURE

AMSTERDAM Despite its size, Amsterdam is a city jam packed with history, culture and festivals for everyone.

PHOTO: 123RF/ANATOLIY SAMARA

T

he largest city and capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, is almost like a world of its own. An exceptionally compact city that houses about 820,000 residents, the narrow streets bordered by an infinite array of gabled houses running along the canals form a relaxing and intimate atmosphere that is reminiscent of its 17th century history. This is a city that is best explored on foot, as most of the sites of interests are located within walking distance, or you may prefer to ride a bike (as the locals do) to places further out. One of Amsterdam’s greatest marvel is their complex canal networks that run through the whole city, which means that a canal cruise is a much better way to enjoy the hidden charms that Amsterdam has to offer, rather than a bus tour.

One of the main highlights of Amsterdam would be its world-class art museums, among them the Rijksmuseum with the famed Rembrandts, the Van Gogh Museum, the Hermitage Amsterdam and the Stedelijk Museum of modern art. The Anne Frank House is also a must-visit – bringing you back in time to the cramped two-room annex where the Frank family hid from the Nazis for two years during World War II. For the more adventurous soul, you may venture to the notorious Red Light District (locally known as De Wallen) – one of the oldest parts of Amsterdam – reputed for the legal sex and drugs. Stroll through the streets and you will find women sitting in the window parlours to lure business in, as well as a line-up of coffeeshops offering ‘soft’ drugs in the form of cannabis, all perfectly legal. Even if you are not interested in such vices, the Red Light District is also home to other unique and interesting shops and restaurants, as well as the city’s oldest Gothic church, Oude Kerk.

ADD ON FOR ECSPSW & ECERPW ONLY

4D2N BRUSSELS & AMSTERDAM EXTENSION 4★ HOTEL Park Plaza Schiphol or similar

DAY 1

PARIS → BRUSSELS → AMSTERDAM Breakfast, Lunch

Head to Brussels for a orientation tour and stop by the Atomium, an extraordinary structure that presents itself as a relic of the past with a futuristic edge, and the picturesque Royal Palace of Laeken.

Next, take a leisure jaunt through the La Grand-Place, a market square featuring architecture of an eclectic blend of Western artistic styles, which would lead you to the renowned Manneken Pis, a small sculpture depicting a naked boy urinating into a water fountain that represents the rebellious spirit of the city of Brussels. Thereafter, spend the rest of the afternoon for some shopping at leisure, but do not forget to pick up some Belgian chocolate as a sinful treat to reward yourself. Cross over to Amsterdam for your overnight stay.

barns, cottages and museums that is built in typical Dutch wooden architectural style. Watch how cheese and clog shoes are made in demonstrations by expert craftsmen skilled in these traditional Dutch crafts. After that, enjoy a guided tour of Amsterdam, which includes special highlights such as a cruise though Amsterdam’s famous canals and a trip to a diamond factory.

DAY 3

AMSTERDAM → SINGAPORE Breakfast, Meals on Board

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 4

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 2

AMSTERDAM Breakfast, Dinner

Start off with a stop at Zaanse Schans where you will be presented with an idyllic scene of traditional windmills,

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• Zaanse Schans will be replaced with Keukenhof Gardens during end March to early May.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 17

15D12N

EUROPE DISCOVERY Explore all the wonders of Europe as we bring you to the best places in the continent for picturesque landscape views, exquisite historical and religious architectural masterpieces, informative experiences of local trade and culture and best shopping bargains.

COLOSSEUM, ROME, ITALY

18 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/VARLIUXXX82

TOUR CODE: ECDISA

NETHERLANDS

HIGHLIGHTS ITALY

GERMANY

ROME • Vatican City • St. Peter’s Basilica • Colosseum (Entrance included) • Roman Forum • Trevi Fountain PISA • Piazza del Miracoli • Leaning Tower of Pisa FLORENCE • Piazza della Signoria VENICE • St. Mark’s Square • Doge’s Palace • Bridge of Sighs • Glass blowing factory

BADENWÜRTTEMBERG • Lake Titisee in Black Forest • Overnight in Rhineland COLOGNE

SWITZERLAND

BELGIUM

LUCERNE • Old Chapel Bridge • Lion Monument INTERLAKEN • View overlooking the Jungfrau SCHAFFHAUSEN • Rhine Falls ENGELBERG • Mt. Titlis

BRUSSELS • Atomium • Royal Palace of Brussels • La Grand-Place • Manneken Pis

AUSTRIA INNSBRUCK • Golden roof • Swarovski crystal shop SALZBURG • Mozart’s birthplace

Amsterdam

BELGIUM Paris

2

GERMANY

Brussels

Cologne 1

2

Lake Titisee Lucerne

FRANCE

NETHERLANDS

2

Heidelberg Schaffhausen Vaduz

1

AUSTRIA

Innsbruck

Interlaken

AMSTERDAM • The Dam • Basilica of St. Nicholas • Royal Palace of Amsterdam • Zaanse Schans • Diamond factory • River cruise

Salzburg

1

1

Pisa

Venice’s Islands Florence

1

ITALY Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2 3

1

Rome

SWITZERLAND

DELICACIES

Specialities

Meal Plan

• Tuscan dinner with wine • 4-course Swiss Fondue Dinner • Authentic Black Forest Lunch

12 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 7 Dinners

FRANCE PARIS • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower (Entrance to 2nd level) • Galeries Lafayette

4-5★ HOTELS ROME Holiday Inn FLORENCE Sheraton VENICE’S ISLANDS Hilton Molino Stucky SALZBURG Mercure LUCERNE Astoria INTERLAKEN Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage RHINELAND Holiday Inn AMSTERDAM Schipol Mercure PARIS Courtyard by Marriott *Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

DAY 1

SINGAPORE → ROME Meals on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to Rome.

DAY 2

ROME Meals on Board, Lunch, Dinner

Start the day with a visit to the Vatican City and feast your eyes upon St. Peter’s Basilica, a Catholic shrine renowned for its Renaissance architecture. Wonder at the sight of the Colosseum on a tour of the largest amphitheatre ever built with its capacity of up to 80,000. Pass by the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, with its archaic buildings and shrines including the ancient former royal residence. Piazza Venezia is located a short walk away with a massive monument dedicated to the first King of Italy. Then, marvel at the masterpiece of Trevi Fountain, the city’s largest Baroque fountain.

DAY 3

ROME → PISA → FLORENCE

Breakfast, Tuscan dinner with wine

Make your way to Pisa to view the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and the tilted bell

tower of the Cathedral of Pisa. Journey on to the centre of Italian Renaissance, the city of Florence. Here, you can pay a visit to the Baptistery of St. John, renowned for its three sets of large bronze doors with depictions of art. Then, drop by the Piazza della Signoria to check out their exquisite sculptures and spend time on the Ponte Vecchio, an old arch bridge with excellent views over the river and glittering jewellery shops along its length. Wind down in the evening with authentic Tuscan fare.

DAY 4

FLORENCE → VENICE’S ISLANDS Breakfast

Board a unique water taxi that will take you to Venice’s city centre and set of on a tour of St. Mark’s Square and the famous St. Mark’s Basilica – nicknamed the ‘church of gold’ due to its opulent design and gold mosaics. Swing by the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, two of Venice’s main landmarks, then visit a glass blowing factory to learn more about the art of Murano glassmaking. Spend the night in a luxurious 5-star Hilton hotel on Venice’s Islands.

Note: A 2-way poterage service will be provided to Hilton Molino Stucky on Venice’s Islands.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 19

15D12N EUROPE DISCOVERY idyllic scene of traditional windmills, barns, cottages and museums built in typical Dutch architectural style. Watch how cheese and clog shoes are made in demonstrations by expert craftsmen, then tour Amsterdam on a cruise though her famous canals and take a trip to a diamond factory.

DAY 12

SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

AMSTERDAM → BRUSSELS → PARIS Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8

Breakfast, Dinner

Breakfast

Traverse through the breath-taking Austrian Lake District and find your way to Salzburg, also known as the birthplace of Mozart. A stroll through the city would leave you in admiration of their dreamy spires, romantic gardens and intricate baroque architecture, all of which contributed to the city’s ranking on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and its feature in the musical ‘The Sound of Music’.

Bask in the nature of the Bernese Oberland region with its picture-perfect landscapes accentuated by countless mountain peaks and glistening lakes. Enjoy the rest of the day free at leisure for some shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure. You may wish to partake in an optional mountain railway trip to Jungfraujoch, the top of Europe.

VENICE → SALZBURG

INTERLAKEN

DAY 9

DAY 6

SALZBURG → INNSBRUCK → LUCERNE Breakfast

Take a journey back in time as you visit Innsbruck, a city rich in traditions, imperial architecture and colourful history. A mustvisit would be the Golden Roof located in Innsbruck’s Old Town, a three-storey balcony decorated with 2,657 gold-plated copper tiles. Stop by the largest Swarovski shop before continuing on a scenic drive to Lucerne via Vaduz, capital city of Liechtenstein. Take a tour of Old Town Lucerne with its unspoiled buildings covered with colourful murals. Here, you will also find Bucherer, the largest duty-free store in Switzerland and its famed attraction, the Aion Rolling Ball Clock. Later, drop by the Lion Monument – a gift from France to Switzerland to commemorate the valour of the Swiss mercenary soldiers who lost their lives while serving King Louis XVI during the French Revolution.

DAY 7

LUCERNE → ENGELBERG → MT. TITLIS → INTERLAKEN

Breakfast, Dinner – 4-course Swiss Fondue

Start the day with an exciting excursion to Engelberg, where you can board a cable car and ride up to the peak of Mt. Titlis to enjoy the breath-taking view of the snow-capped mountainscape. At midday, travel onward to Interlaken where you for a marvellous view of the Jungfrau snowy peaks.

20 Central Europe | EU Holidays

INTERLAKEN → SCHAFFHAUSEN → LAKE TITISEE → HEIDELBERG → RHINELAND Breakfast, Lunch – Black Forest special, Dinner

Set off to the largest waterfall in the whole of Europe – the wild, churning waters of the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen. Then, cross the border over to the enchanting Black Forest in Germany and indulge in an authentic Black Forest lunch. Then, make your way to Lake Titisee to attend a demonstration on the meticulous process of cuckoo-clock making. Transfer to the Rhineland region via Heidelberg for your overnight stay.

DAY 10

RHINELAND → COLOGNE → AMSTERDAM Breakfast

Brighten your morning with a visit to the Cologne Cathedral in Cologne, a gothic masterpiece that remains a physical testimony to the enduring strength and unwavering spirit of European Christianity.

Then, depart for the capital city of the Netherlands and embark on a walking tour to the Dam Square, the Basilica of St. Nicholas and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam.

DAY 11

AMSTERDAM Breakfast, Dinner

Begin the day with a visit to the Zaanse Schans where you will be presented with an

Head to Brussels for an orientation tour and take in the sights of the Royal Palace of Brussels and the Atomium – an extraordinary structure that presents itself as a relic of the past with a futuristic touch.

Next, take a jaunt through the La GrandPlace, a market square featuring architecture of an eclectic blend of Western artistic styles, which would lead you to the renowned Manneken Pis, a small sculpture depicting a naked boy urinating into a water fountain that represents the rebellious spirit of the city of Brussels. Carry on to Paris, the City of Light, where you may wish to enjoy an optional scenic Seine River cruise or a Moulin Rouge show.

DAY 13

PARIS

Breakfast, Chinese lunch

Begin your Paris adventure with a guided tour of the city – take in the sights of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum with its iconic Louvre Pyramid, and the Palais Garnier Paris Opera House. Stop at the Arc de Triomphe, a famed monument erected in honour of the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower for a panoramic view over Paris from the second level, then head over to the Galeries Lafayette – the biggest department store in Paris for souvenir shopping (subject to store’s operating hours).

DAY 14

PARIS → SINGAPORE

Breakfast, Meals on Board

Enjoy the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 15

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

PHOTO: 123RF/VYACHESLAV SHEVCHENKO

DAY 5

Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Up to the highest-altitude railway station in Europe 路 3454 m

Kleine Scheidegg

Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven

On the journey, this engineering masterpiece of the century, which celebrated its 100th birthday in 2012, awards simply stunning views from the middle of the famous Eiger North Wall.

A wonderworld of snow and ice.

Alpine Sensation

jungfrau.ch

Sphinx

top offers & more info at jungfrau.ch

11D8N

EUROPE HIGHLIGHTS TOUR CODE: ECCHLA

EIFFEL TOWER, PARIS, FRANCE

22 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/UNKNOWN1861

For travellers who are looking for a comprehensive expedition of central Europe with little time to spare, we bring you to the most charming locales under the cover of a dusting of snow and frost in six different countries over a span of 10 days.

HIGHLIGHTS

NETHERLANDS

ITALY

FRANCE

MILAN • Sforza Castle • Milan Cathedral • La Scala Opera House • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

PARIS • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower (Entrance to 2nd level) • Galeries Lafayette

SWITZERLAND LUCERNE • Old Chapel Bridge • Old Town • Aion Rolling Ball Clock • Bucherer • Lion Monument SCHAFFHAUSEN • Rhine Falls • Overnight in Lorraine Region

GERMANY

Amsterdam

BELGIUM Paris

2

GERMANY

Brussels

Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

Lake Titisee

2

Nancy

Schaffhausen

1

FRANCE

SWITZERLAND

2

Lucerne

Milan

BELGIUM BRUSSELS • Atomium • La Grand-Place • Manneken Pis

1

ITALY

Lugano

NETHERLANDS AMSTERDAM • Zaanse Schans • Diamond factory • River cruise

BADENWÜRTTEMBERG • Lake Titisee in Black Forest

DELICACIES Meal Plan 8 Breakfasts (buffet), 2 Lunches, 4 Dinners

Specialities • 3-course Italian dinner • 3-course German Pork Knuckle with Black Forest Cake • 4-course French dinner • 3-course Mussels Lunch

3/4★ HOTELS MILAN ATA Chain LUCERN Lakeside Hotel NANCY Ibis PARIS Mercure AMSTERDAM Ibis *Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

DAY 1

SINGAPORE → MILAN Meals on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and set-off to fashion capital, Milan.

houseware and accessories at discounts of 30 to 70 per cent. Retreat for the night in one of Lucerne Lake’s popular lakeside hotels.

DAY 4

DAY 2

MILAN Italian Dinner

The first stop of the day is the Sforza Castle, a fortress once home to noble lords of Milan.

Drop by the grandiose Milan Cathedral for shots of the elaborate Gothic exterior façade.

Take a shopping trip through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II leading to the Piazza della Scala where a statue of Leonardo da Vinci is located. Stop by the lavish La Scala Opera House for some pictures Thereafter, spend the rest of the afternoon shopping or sightseeing at leisure in Milan.

DAY 3

MILAN → LUGANO → LUCERNE

LUCERNE Breakfast – Buffet Style

Embark on a tour of Lucerne: visit the Old Chapel Bridge – the oldest wooden bridge in Switzerland, Old Town Lucerne with its unspoiled buildings covered with colourful murals and the Lion Monument. Thereafter, spend the rest of the afternoon for some shopping or sightseeing at leisure in this picturesque city. You may also wish to go on an optional trip to Mount Titlis to round up the day’s activities.

DAY 5

LUCERNE → SCHAFFHAUSEN → LAKE TITISEE → NANCY

Breakfast – Buffet Style, Dinner – Local Fare

Lunch – 3-course German Pork Knuckle with Black Forest Cake, French Dinner

Enjoy an orientation tour of Lugano, the largest town in the holiday region of Ticino offering a vast array of attractions including parks and flowers, museums, villas and Lombardy-styled buildings. Then, stop by the Foxtown Factory Stores for some luxury shopping with over 160 stores of the most prestigious brands of clothing, sportswear,

Set off to the largest waterfall in the whole of Europe – the wild, churning waters of the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen. Then make your way to Lake Titisee in Black Forest and attend a cuckoo clock making demonstration in Titisee-Neustadt. Enjoy their special delicacies such as German Pork Knuckle and Black Forest Cake.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 23

11D8N EUROPE HIGHLIGHTS

ZAANSE SCHANS, AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

DAY 6

NANCY → PARIS

Breakfast, Lunch – Chinese fare

Begin your Paris adventure with a guided tour of the city – take in the sights of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum and its iconic Louvre Pyramid, and the Palais Garnier Paris Opera House. Stop at the Arc de Triomphe, a famed monument erected in honour of the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower for a panoramic view over Paris from the second level, then head over to the Galeries Lafayette – the biggest department store in Paris for souvenir shopping (subject to store’s operating hours).

DAY 8

PARIS → BRUSSELS → AMSTERDAM Breakfast, Mussels Lunch

Head to Brussels for an orientation tour and take in the sights of the Royal Palace of Brussels and the Atomium – an extraordinary structure that presents itself as a relic of the past with a futuristic touch.

Next, take a jaunt through the La GrandPlace, a market square featuring architecture of an eclectic blend of Western artistic styles, which would lead you to the renowned Manneken Pis, a small sculpture depicting a naked boy urinating into a water fountain that represents the rebellious spirit of the city of Brussels. Continue on to Amsterdam for the night.

DAY 7

PARIS

expert craftsmen skilled in these traditional crafts. After that, tour Amsterdam on a cruise though her famous canals and take a trip to a diamond factory. You may also wish to make an optional visit to Volendam, a fishing town in North Holland famous for its traditional costumes and Dutch music scene.

DAY 10

AMSTERDAM → SINGAPORE Breakfast

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 11

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 9

Breakfast

AMSTERDAM

Enjoy a free day of leisure, shopping or sightseeing. You may wish to enjoy optional activities: a scenic Seine River cruise or a Moulin Rouge show.

Breakfast

24 Central Europe | EU Holidays

OLD CHAPEL BRIDGE, LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND

Begin the day with a visit to the Zaanse Schans where you will be presented with an idyllic scene of traditional windmills, barns, cottages and museums built in typical Dutch architectural style. Watch how cheese and clog shoes are made in demonstrations by

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Winter activities are subject to weather conditions.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

PHOTO: 123RF/ ALEXANDR TKACHUK, PLJVV, MANGANGANATH

MILAN CATHEDRAL, ITALY

Peak to Peak at 3,000 m.

www.glacier3000.ch

13D10N

INDULGENCE FRANCE Whether you are one for the bustling cities like Paris and Marseille, or prefer to relax in quiet countryside areas such as Loire Valley and Provence, spoil yourself for choice in France, a country brimming with food, culture, art and history that is bound to entice you.

MONT ST. MICHEL, FRANCE

26 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/VICHAYA KIATYING-ANGSULEE

TOUR CODE: ECFRWA

Mont St. Michel

HIGHLIGHTS FRANCE MONACO • St. Nicholas Cathedral • Opéra de Monte-Carlo AIX-EN-PROVENCE CANNES • Palais des Festivals et des Congrès • Promenade de la Croisette AVIGNON • Palais des Papes • Pont d’Avignon ARLES • Arles Amphitheatre • Church of St. Trophime CARCASSONNE • Medieval historic town LOURDES • Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

1

BORDEAUX • St. Emiliom vineyards LOIRE VALLEY • UNESCO World Heritage Site • Chateau d’Amboise • Chapel of Saint-Hubert SAINT-MALO • Château de Saint-Malo MONT ST. MICHEL • Norman Benedictine Abbey of St. Michel PARIS • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower (Entrance to 2nd level) • Galeries Lafayette

DELICACIES Meal Plan 10 Breakfasts, 8 Dinners

Specialities • Mont St-Michel Special Egg Omelet • Special French Duck cuisine from the region

1 Paris

2 Loire Valley

FRANCE

Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

Bordogne Valley

1 Biarrtiz

Bordeaux

Aix-en-Provence Avignon

1

Lourdes

1 1

Arles

Cannes

DAY 1

SINGAPORE → NICE Meals on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to the city of Nice.

DAY 2

NICE → MONACO → NICE Dinner

Depart for a scenic drive along the Mediterranean Coast to reach MonteCarlo in Monaco. Pay a visit to the St. Nicholas Cathedral and the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, an opera house built in a similar style to the Palais Garnier opera house in Paris under the same architect, Charles Garnier. Indulge in a panoramic view of the port and the Mediterranean from the Prince’s Palace of Monaco – the official residence of the Monaco royal family for 700 years. Travel back to Nice and retire for the night.

DAY 3

NICE B4 Plaza AIX-EN-PROVENCE Radisson Blu ARLES Mercure CARCASSONNE Trois Couronnes BIARRITZ Holiday Inn BORDEAUX Quality Suites LOIRE VALLEY Chateau Hotel (free upgrade 1N) SAINT-MALO Quality Hotel PARIS Novotel

Breakfast, Dinner

NICE → CANNES → AIX-EN-PROVENCE Start off the day with a trip to Cannes for an orientation tour of the city and visit the famous Palais des Festivals et des Congrès – the host site of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, and the Promenade de la Croisette. Then, proceed to AixEn-Provence, a city famed for its scenery due to surrounding picturesque villages and landscape made up by the SainteVictoire Mountain, the Durance Valley, the mountain ranges of Touloubre, Côtes and Trévaresse, and the Upper Valley of the Arc. You may also wish to make an optional visit to the nearby Marseille, a port city with bustling markets.

Monaco

1

1

Carcassonne

4★ HOTELS

*Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

Saint-Malo

Nice

DAY 4

AIX-EN-PROVENCE → AVIGNON → ARLES Breakfast, Dinner

Make your way to Avignon to visit the impressive Palais des Papes, the biggest Gothic palace in the whole of Europe. View the Pont d’Avignon medieval bridge on the bank of the River Rhone, which was abandoned in the midst of construction with only four surviving arches. Then, head to Arles and embark on a sightseeing tour of the city’s main attractions, which include the imposing Arles Amphitheatre and the Church of St. Trophime. You may wish to make an optional visit to Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge.

DAY 5

ARLES → CARCASSONNE Breakfast, Dinner

Travel back to the past in the historic town of Carcassonne, a medieval fortified settlement with massive defence walls encompassing the castle and surrounding buildings. Due to its exceptionally lengthy restoration works done by famous architect Viollet-le-Duc, the historic town of Carcassonne has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

DAY 6

CARCASSONNE → LOURDES → BIARRTIZ Breakfast, Dinner

Head to the Corbières region and wander through the winding acres of hills and landscapes of this quaint countryside. Trek past the ancient ruined Cathar castles as you move towards the Pyrenees and arrive in Lourdes. Visit the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a church erected directly above the grotto of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a popular holy

EU Holidays | Central Europe 27

13D10N INDULGENCE FRANCE

SANCTUARY OF OUR LADY, LOURDES, FRANCE

DAY 7

BIARRITZ → BORDEAUX

residence along with its gardens and collections of art, furniture and musical instruments are open for visitors’ viewing.

You can also get an inside look at Leonardo da Vinci’s life through his apartments here, as well as visit the Chapel of Saint-Hubert where he has been laid to rest. You may also wish to take an optional tour of one of the many castles in Loire Valley.

Breakfast, Dinner

Proceed to Bordeaux and enjoy an orientation tour of the ‘City of art and history’, renowned for its Gothic Cathédrale StAndré, art museums, 18th-century mansions and urban vineyards. This city was voted the 2015 European best destination by travellers.

DAY 8

BORDEAUX → DORDOGNE VALLEY → LOIRE VALLEY Breakfast, Dinner

Travel to Dordogne Valley and enjoy the passing countryside scenery as you head to the vineyards in St. Emilion, the oldest and largest wine producing region renowned for their wine. Embark on a wine-tasting tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn more about their wine-making procedures.

Then, journey on to Loire Valley for your night’s stay.

DAY 9

LOIRE VALLEY

DAY 10

LOIRE VALLEY → MONT ST. MICHEL → SAINT-MALO Breakfast, Dinner

Make a trip to Mont St. Michel in the morning, a small UNESCO World Heritage site located in an island off the coast of the Lower Normandy region in northern France. Visit the spectacular Norman Benedictine Abbey of St. Michel located at the peak of the island, which is surrounded by winding streets and monastic buildings.

Then, continue on to the ancient walled city of Saint-Malo, a port city that was once home to many interesting characters such as pirates and explorers and famous for its butter cookies. Get a look at the Saint-Malo Cathedral and the Château de Saint-Malo, originally a symbol of ducal and royal power which now houses a museum covering the long maritime history of Saint-Malo, the WWII Occupation as well as the destruction and reconstruction of the town.

Breakfast

Begin with a visit to the magnificent Chateau d’Amboise, yet another UNESCO Word Heritage Site which offers a panoramic view over Loire Valley. Once a favourite of the French kings, the royal

28 Central Europe | EU Holidays

DAY 11

SAINT-MALO → PARIS Breakfast

Travel south for your long awaited Paris adventure. First, set out on a guided tour

of the city – take in the sights of ChampsÉlysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum and its iconic Louvre Pyramid, and the Palais Garnier Paris Opera House.

Stop at the Arc de Triomphe for a photo with the famed monument erected in honour of the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars. Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower for a panoramic view over Paris from the second level.

Lastly, head over to the Galeries Lafayette – the biggest department store in Paris for some souvenir shopping (subject to store’s operating hours).

DAY 12

PARIS → SINGAPORE

Breakfast, Meals on Board

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 13

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Activities are subject to weather conditions.

• Mountain excursions are subjected to weather conditions and may be cancelled at short notice.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

PHOTO: 123RF/WORAKIT SIRIJINDA

pilgrimage site due the reputed healing powers of the Lourdes water. Continue on to Biarritz, a famous seaside destination where you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the coastline and fall asleep to the sounds of crashing waves.

12D9N

ALL-IN-EUROPE FOOTPRINT Take nothing but pictures; leave nothing but footprints; return with everlasting memories of this wonderous trip across Europe’s most lauded landmarks.

ROTAIR ROTATING CABLE CAR, MT. TITLIS, SWITZERLAND

30 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: ROTAIR

TOUR CODE: ECCFPA

GREAT BRITAIN

HIGHLIGHTS

London

GREAT BRITAIN

GERMANY

LONDON • Big Ben • Houses of Parliament • Buckingham Palace • Prime Minister’s Office at 10 Downing Street • Trafalgar Square • London Bridge DOVER • View of White Cliffs

BADENWÜRTTEMBERG • Titisee in Black Forest

FRANCE PARIS • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower • Galeries Lafayette COLMAR • Mini train tour • Christmas Markets

SWITZERLAND LUCERNE • Old Chapel Bridge • Old Town • Aion Rolling Ball Clock • Bucherer • Lion Monument • Mt. Titlis (Entrance Included)

1

Calais

Paris

ITALY MILAN • Sforza Castle • Milan Cathedral • La Scala Opera House • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II SIRMIONE • Rocca Scaligera VENICE • St. Mark’s Square • Doge’s Palace • Bridge of Sighs • Glass blowing factory PISA • Piazza del Miracoli • Leaning Tower of Pisa FLORENCE • Barberino Factory Outlet • Florence Cathedral • Piazza della Signoria • Ponte Vecchio ROME • Vatican City • St. Peter’s Basilica • Colosseum • Roman Forum • Trevi Fountain

Dover

GERMANY

2

FRANCE

Colmar

Lucerne Engelberg

Meal Plan

• LONDON Dover White Cliff • PARIS Seine River Cruise • COLMAR Mini Train tour • GERMANY Lake Titisee

DAY 1

SINGAPORE → LONDON This evening, assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for London, the capital city of the United Kingdom.

Tuscany

ITALY 1 Rome

• LUCERNE Mt. Titlis • MILAN Sirmione Castle visit • FLORENCE Barberino Factory Outlet

coastline, a spectacular natural feature that owes its unique colour to a rare, pure form of limestone that is similar to chalk. Once you arrive, make your way to Paris to rest and recharge for tomorrow’s adventure.

DAY 4

Meals on Board, Dinner – Fish and Chips

*Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

1

All the usual optional excursions are included in this tour package

Specialty Meals

LONDON Ibis Earls Court PARIS Ibis COLMAR Best Western LUCERNE Postillon MILAN UNA Hotel VENICE Best Western TUSCANY Art Miro ROME Eur Suite

1 Venice

NO OPTIONAL TOUR

DAY 2

3-4★ HOTELS

Sirmione Milan 1

Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by cruise Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

9 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners

• Fish and Chips • German Pork Knuckle with Black Forest Cake • Italian Pizza and Pasta

SWITZERLAND

1

Pisa

Meals on Board

DELICACIES

Lake Titisee

1

LONDON Embark on a guided city tour of London and take in the sights of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, the Prime Minister’s Office at 10 Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, London Bridge and many other London attractions. Enjoy an authentic fish and chips meal for dinner before retiring for the night.

DAY 3

LONDON → DOVER → CALAIS → PARIS

Breakfast, Dinner – Chinese Fare

Proceed to Dover, a major ferry port situated on the straits of Dover, to board a ferry that will take you to Calais in France. Along the way, admire the striking façade of the majestic White Cliffs along the English

PARIS Breakfast

Begin your Paris adventure with a guided tour of the city – take in the sights of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum and its iconic Louvre Pyramid, and the Palais Garnier Paris Opera House. Stop at the Arc de Triomphe for a photo with the famed monument erected in honour of the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars. Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower, and head over to the Galeries Lafayette – the biggest department store in Paris for some souvenir shopping (subject to store’s operating hours). End your day with a Seine River Cruise for a scenic view of Paris’s famous monuments.

Note: The Galeries Lafayette is closed on Sundays and on Christmas Day.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 31

12D9N ALL-IN-EUROPE FOOTPRINT DAY 5

PARIS → COLMAR

Breakfast, Lunch – French Fare

Make your way to the picturesque city of Colmar, situated in the heart of the idyllic Alsace region in northeast France. This quaint town is akin to a scene out of a storybook with its half-timbered houses, rustic canals and lush flora and fauna. Climb aboard an adorable mini train which will take you on an orientation tour along the narrow winding streets of the historic Old Town, littered with medieval houses dating back to the 16th and 17th century. Don’t miss a visit to the Colmar Christmas Markets during the festive season, where you can enjoy a multitude of exhibitions, concerts and performances under the Christmas illuminations as well as indulge in the culinary treats and sugary pleasures offered by the numerous specialist shops and stalls. *Note: The availability of the Colmar mini train tour is subject to weather conditions. The Colmar Christmas Markets are only open from 20th Nov – 31st Dec 2015.

DAY 6

COLMAR → LAKE TITISEE → LUCERNE

Breakfast, Lunch – German Pork Knuckle with Black Forest Cake

Cross over to Germany and head to Lake Titisee in Black Forest, where you’ll attend a cuckoo clock making demonstration in Titisee-Neustadt. Sample some ice wine along with their special delicacies German Pork Knuckle and Black Forest Cake for lunch, before heading to Lucerne Lake for your night’s stay at one of their popular lakeside hotels.

DAY 7

LUCERNE → MT. TITLIS → MILAN Breakfast, Lunch on Mt. Titlis

Start the day with an orientation tour of Lucerne, where your first stop will be the Old Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden bridge in Switzerland decorated with old paintings under its roof. Enjoy a stroll through the Old Town with its unspoiled buildings covered with colourful murals. Here, you will also find Bucherer, the largest duty-free store in Switzerland, as well as its famed attraction, the Aion Rolling Ball Clock.

Later, drop round to see the Lion Monument – a gift from France to Switzerland to commemorate the valour of the Swiss mercenary soldiers who lost their lives while serving King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. After which, head to Engelberg for an exciting excursion up to the peak of Mt. Titlis via the Rotair, where you will be

32 Central Europe | EU Holidays

treated to a 360-degree panoramic view of steep rock faces, deep crevasses and distant snow-covered mountain peaks as the gondola rotates its way up the summit.

Delight in a gratifying lunch among crystalclear glacier views atop Mt. Titlis, before descending and proceeding towards Milan to retire for the night.

DAY 8

MILAN → SIRMIONE → VENICE

Breakfast, Lunch – Italian Pasta & Pizza, Dinner

Follow a local tour guide to the first stop of your Milan tour – the Sforza Castle, a majestic fortress where noble lords of Milan used to reside. Drop by the grandiose Milan Cathedral for some shots of the elaborate Gothic exterior façade. Next, take a leisure stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some brief shopping, which will then lead you to Piazza della Scala – where a statue monument of Leonardo da Vinci is located. Stop by the lavish La Scala Opera House for some pictures before we move on to Sirmione, a pretty historical town perched on the shores of Lake Garda in northern Italy.

Commence on an orientation tour of the historical centre of Sirmione, and don’t miss a visit to the archaeological ruins of Villa Romana as well as the renowned fairytale castle Rocca Scaligera, which is defended by a herd of swans and ducks patrolling in its moat. As night falls, head to romantic city of Venice to stay for the night.

DAY 9

VENICE → TUSCANY

Breakfast, Dinner – Chinese Fare

Make your way to Venice’s city centre via a private water taxi, a unique yet effective mode of transport for a city built on water.

Then, set off on a guided tour around St. Mark’s Square and to the famous cathedral church St. Mark’s Basilica – nicknamed the ‘church of gold’ due to its opulent design and gold ground mosaics. Swing by the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, two of Venice’s main landmarks, for some breathtaking pictures to bring back as mementos.

Lastly, visit a glass blowing factory to learn more about the art of Murano glassmaking, an elite trade unique to Venice. Thereafter, stop by the Barberino Designer Outlet, where you will find everything from clothes and cosmetics to appliances and shoes at prices of up to 70% discount from prominent brands such as Prada, D&G, Furla, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Laurent and Calvin Klein.

DAY 10

TUSCANY → PISA → FLORENCE → ROME Breakfast, Lunch – Local Fare

Journey to Pisa for a visit to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, as well as the Baptistery and the Cathedral; the famous trio attractions situated in Piazza dei Miracoli, one of the finest architectural complexes in the world. Thereafter, travel to the centre of Italian Renaissance, the city of Florence. Here, you can pay a visit to the Baptistery of St. John, renowned for its three sets of large bronze doors with depictions of art. Then, drop by the Piazza della Signoria to check out their exquisite sculptures and spend some time dawdling on the Ponte Vecchio, an old arch bridge that not only has excellent views over the river but also glittering jewellery shops along its length for your enjoyment. Proceed on to Rome for your overnight stay.

DAY 11

ROME → SINGAPORE

Breakfast, Dinner – Chinese Fare, Meals on Board

Kick off the day with a trip to the Vatican City – a walled enclave within Rome and feast your eyes upon St. Peter’s Basilica, a Catholic shrine renowned for its Renaissance architecture. Later, be awed by the magnificent sight of the Colosseum, as you embark on a guided tour in the largest amphitheatre ever built that has a capacity of up to 80,000. Pass by the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, with its archaic buildings and shrines including the ancient former royal residence. Piazza Venezia is located a short walk away, where a massive monument dedicated to the first King of Italy dominates. Then, marvel at the masterpiece of Trevi Fountain, the city’s largest Baroque fountain. Indulge in a hearty meal of Chinese cuisine before you transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 12

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Winter activities are subject to weather conditions.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

10D7N

LONDON PARIS BRUSSELS AMSTERDAM Discover some of Europe’s grandest cities, from the art and cultural sites of London to the exquisite food and fashion in Paris, the fascinating old history of Brussels and the unique canal waterways that run through Amsterdam TOUR CODE: ECLPAA

HOUSE OR PARLIAMENT, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

34 Central Europe | EU Holidays

HIGHLIGHTS UNITED KINGDOM LONDON • Big Ben • Houses of Parliament • Buckingham Palace • Prime Minister’s Office • Trafalgar Square • London Bridge WILTSHIRE • Stonehenge BATH • Roman Baths

GREAT BRITAIN

BELGIUM BRUSSELS • Atomium • Royal Palace of Brussels • La Grand-Place • Manneken Pis

NETHERLANDS AMSTERDAM • Zaanse Schans • Diamond factory • Canal cruise

Bath London

2

Amsterdam

2

Brussels 1

Stonehenge

FRANCE

DELICACIES Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

Specialities • London Fish and Chips • 3-course French dinner • Belgium mussels

3-4★ HOTELS

2 Paris

DAY 1

DAY 4

Meals on Board

Breakfast, Dinner – French Fare

SINGAPORE → LONDON Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for London.

DAY 2

LONDON Lunch – London Fish and Chips

Embark on a guided city tour of London and take in the sights of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament otherwise known as the Palace of Winchester, Buckingham Palace, the Prime Minister’s Office at 10 Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, London Bridge and many other attractions. Enjoy a local fish and chips meal for lunch and spend the night in the capital city of the United Kingdom.

DAY 3

LONDON Ibis Earls Court PARIS Novotel BELGIUM Mercure AMSTERDAM Van Der Valk

PHOTO: 123RF/ANDREEA NICOLA

*Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

BELGIUM Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by High Speed Train Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2 3

FRANCE PARIS • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower (Entrance to 2nd level) • Galeries Lafayette

NETHERLANDS

LONDON → WILTSHIRE → BATH → LONDON

LONDON → PARIS

Make your way to Paris via Eurostar – a high speed train service that traverse the Channel Tunnel underneath the English Channel. Get a glimpse of the wonders of Paris through a guided tour – take in the sights of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum and its iconic Louvre Pyramid, and the Palais Garnier Paris Opera House. Stop at the Arc de Triomphe for a photo with the famed monument erected in honour of the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower for a panoramic view over Paris from the second level. Lastly, head over to the Galeries Lafayette – the biggest department store in Paris for some souvenir shopping (subject to store’s operating hours).

DAY 5

Breakfast, Dinner – Chinese dim sum

PARIS

Get ready for a full day of adventure to some of the best attractions and popular sights outside of London. Visit one of the best known wonders of the world – Stonehenge, and learn more about this mysterious ancient monument and its many rumoured myths and legends. Last but not least, make your way to the Georgian city of Bath and enjoy a panoramic tour, featuring the Roman Baths – a well preserved Roman historical site of a public bathing complex. Transfer back to London for the night.

Breakfast

Enjoy a free day of leisure for some shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure in Paris. You may wish to enjoy some optional activities, such as a scenic Seine River cruise or a Moulin Rouge show.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 35

10D7N LONDON PARIS BRUSSELS AMSTERDAM

TRAFALGAR SQUARE, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

CLOG SHOE MAKING DEMONSTRATION, ZAANSE SCHANS, NETHERLANDS

DAY 6

DAY 7

DAY 9

Breakfast, Dinner – Belgian Mussels

Breakfast, Dinner

Breakfast

PARIS → BRUSSELS

Head to Brussels for a guided orientation tour and stop by the Atomium, an extraordinary structure that presents itself as a relic of the past with a futuristic edge.

Drive by the picturesque Royal Palace of Laeken before arriving in the city to see the Royal Palace of Brussels. Next, take a leisure jaunt through the La Grand-Place, a market square featuring architecture of an eclectic blend of Western artistic styles, which would lead you to the renowned Manneken Pis, a small sculpture depicting a naked boy urinating into a water fountain that represents the rebellious spirit of the city of Brussels.

Thereafter, spend the rest of the afternoon for some shopping at leisure, but do not forget to pick up some Belgian chocolate as a sinful treat to reward yourself. You may also wish to make an optional visit to nearby city Bruges before you end the day.

36 Central Europe | EU Holidays

BRUSSELS → AMSTERDAM Cross over to Amsterdam and start off with a stop at Zaanse Schans where you will be presented with an idyllic scene of traditional windmills, barns, cottages and museums that is built in typical Dutch wooden architectural style. Watch how cheese and clog shoes are made in demonstrations by expert craftsmen skilled in these traditional Dutch crafts. After that, enjoy a guided tour of Amsterdam, which includes highlights such as a cruise though Amsterdam’s famous canals and a trip to a diamond factory.

AMSTERDAM → SINGAPORE Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 10

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 8

AMSTERDAM Breakfast

Enjoy a free day of leisure for some shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure, with the possibility of visiting the infamous red-light district in Amsterdam. You may also wish to make an optional visit to Volendam, a quaint fishing town in North Holland well known for its traditional costumes and vibrant Dutch music scene.

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Activities are subject to weather conditions.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

PHOTO: 123RF/SONGQUAN DENG, IGOR BANASZCZYK, TOSCA WEIJERS

MANNEKEN PIS, BRUSSELS, BELGIUM

TRAVEL WITH EASE OF MIND AIG lets you travel the world with ease of mind. Travel Guard is the name for all travel products and services marketed by AIG. We will take care of your travel needs while you explore the world in complete freedom.

Be it for a short business trip or an extended family holiday, we provide you with 24-hour worldwide comprehensive protection with our wide range of product benefits and services.

Special Features

24-Hr Medical Assistance

^Covers in the event of Natural Disasters

^Unlimited Emergency Medical Evacuation (Section 7)

^Fraudulent Credit Card Usage (Section 22)

Covers All Ages

^Disruption Benefits – Unused Entertainment Tickets/ Frequent Flyer Points (Section 37)

^Overseas Medical Expenses coverage up to S$2,000,000 (Section 1)

^Reimburses Emergency Telephone Charges incurred Overseas (Section 13)

Pays from the First Dollar

Covers Leisure Amateur Sports

^Covers Loss/ Delay of Baggage (Section 23, 25)

^Covers Replacement Cost of Lost Travel Documents (Section 26)

^Terms & conditions apply

22 Northern & Southern America | EU Holidays

10D7N

PURE ALPS SWITZERLAND A trip to pamper all your senses – travel to land-locked Switzerland that is defined by beautiful mountain regions and stunning wintry landscapes.

MT. MATTERHORN, SWITZERLAND

38 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/ THEYOK

TOUR CODE: ECSWWW

Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

HIGHLIGHTS ITALY MILAN • Sforza Castle • Milan Cathedral • La Scala Opera House • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

SWITZERLAND BELLINZONA • Castelgrande • Castello di Montebello • Castello di Sasso Corbaro LUGANO • Orientation tour GENEVA • World Health Organization HQ • International Labour Organization • International Committee of the Red Cross HQ • United Nations building • Jet d’Eau • Reformation Wall • L’horloge fleurie SWISS RIVIERA • Montreux • Marché de Nöel Christmas Market ZERMATT • Old part of the village

INTERLAKEN • Orientation tour with view of the Jungfrau GRINDELWALD • Mt. Bussalp BERN • Clock Tower Zytglogge • Bear Pit • UNESCO World Heritage Old Town LUCERNE • Old Chapel Bridge • Old Town • Aion Rolling Ball Clock • Lion Monument ZURICH • Overnight in a lakeside hotel ST. GALLEN • Orientation Tour

LIECHTENSTEIN VADUZ • Vaduz Castle • Cathedral of St. Florin

FRANCE CHAMONIX • Ascend Mont Blanc via cable car • Aiguille du Midi Skywalk RHÔNE-ALPES • Èvian-les-Bains • Yvoire

DELICACIES Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners

Specialities 4-course Swiss fondue combo dinner

3-5★ HOTELS

PHOTO: 123RF/ELENA DUVERNAY

ÈVIAN-LES-BAINS Hilton TASCH Elite INTERLAKEN Grand Lindner Beau Rivage LAKESIDE Meierhof Horgen *Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

zurich

Lucerne Montreux

St Gallen

2

Vaduz

Bern

Èvian-les-Bains

LIECHTENSTEIN SWITZERLAND

2 Interlaken

Yvoire 1

1

Chamonix

FRANCE

Bellinzona Lugano

Täsch

Zermatt

1

Milan

ITALY DAY 1

SINGAPORE → MILAN Meals on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to the fashion capital of Italy, Milan.

DAY 2

MILAN → BELLINZONA → LUGANO → MILAN

Meals on Board, Dinner – Chinese Fare

Start off the day by making your way to Bellinzona, the capital of Switzerland’s Ticino region. Begin your tour in the Old Town of this Italianate city brimming with charming merchants’ houses, stone gateways, alluring balconies with wrought iron railings and inn signs from a bygone era.

Also, don’t miss the impressive and majestic fortifications of castles Castelgrande, Castello di Montebello and Castello di Sasso Corbaro, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following that, proceed to Lugano for an orientation tour that covers a vast array of attractions including parks and flowers, museums, villas and Lombardy-styled buildings. Then, head back to Milan and embark on an exploration of the city led by a tour guide – see the majestic Sforza Castle, stop by the elaborate Gothic Milan Cathedral and the lavish La Scala Opera House for some pictures, and take a leisure stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Piazza della Scala – where a statue monument of Leonardo da Vinci is located.

DAY 3

MILAN → CHAMONIX → MONT BLANC → ÈVIAN-LES-BAINS Breakfast, Lunch – Western Fare

Journey to the famous ski village, Chamonix, and get to the Aiguille du Midi peak via

a cable car for a impressive view of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe. Embrace the magnificent views across the whole mountain range from 3842 metres above sea level. Take a “Step into the Void” on the Aiguille du Midi Skywalk for an arresting view down the highest attraction in Europe, and make sure to enter the glass room installation that allows for a thrilling experience of being suspended in air at a height of 1035 metres above the mountainside. Then, go on a jaunt to Èvian-les-Bains, which is renowned for its Evian springs and source of the famous Evian mineral water.

DAY 4

ÈVIAN-LES-BAINS → YVOIRE → GENEVA → MONTREUX → TASCH Breakfast, Dinner – Western Fare

Begin with a tour of Yvoire, a modest medieval village located on the shore of Lake Geneva. With 700 years of history, this hidden gem is not only classified as one of France’s most beautiful villages, but also ranked as one of the International Laureates of Floral Decorations. Next, commence on a guided excursion of Geneva, where you get to check out the World Health Organization headquarters, the International Labour Organization, the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations Office. Pay a visit to the Jet d’Eau and drop by the L’horloge fleurie, a massive clock decorated by seasonal floral arrangements. After that, head to Montreux for a visit to the Montreux Marché de Nöel Christmas Market, where you can do some shopping or immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit and festivities.

Proceed to Tasch for a good night’s rest. *Note: The Montreux Marché de Nöel Christmas Market is only available from 20 Nov – 24 Dec 2015.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 39

10D7N PURE ALPS SWITZERLAND

YVOIRE, SWITZERLAND

ZERMATT → INTERLAKEN

Glacier Falls, as well as the iconic peaks of Mt. Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.

Breakfast, Dinner – Swiss Fondue Combo

Zermatt – an old, idyllic village nestled in a deep valley enclosed between steeply scarped mountains and situated right at the foot of the Matterhorn, is your destination for this morning. A special, car-free place that is best explored on foot, Zermatt draws you in with its charming cobbled streets and lovely horse-drawn carriages – a scene straight out of a storybook. Explore the old part of the village, where you will find traditional barns, stores, stables and old houses constructed from larch timber with rock slab roofings and supported by stilts based on flat stone slabs. Then, enjoy some free time at leisure to explore Zermatt on your own.

Thereafter, make your way to Interlaken for an orientation tour of the scenic resort town that is presided over by the mighty Mt. Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. As night falls, indulge in a unique 4-course Swiss fondue combo dinner at the famous Swiss-themed Bebbis Restaurant.

DAY 6

INTERLAKEN → GRINDELWALD → INTERLAKEN Breakfast

Prepare for a day filled with endless fun and activities as you board a specially designed Snow Bus for a comfortable ride up to Mt. Bussalp. Enjoy marvellous views of the Jungfrau’s snowy peaks as you sledge through the various obstacle courses on the 7.6km long sledge run; the longest in Europe.

You may also wish to embark on an optional scenic railway trip to Kleine Scheidegg mountain pass, a famous ski resort area, to admire the passing scenic valleys and the

40 Central Europe | EU Holidays

DAY 7

INTERLAKEN → BERN → LUCERNE → ZURICH REGION Breakfast

Proceed to Bern, where you can enjoy an orientation tour of the city – explore its UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town on foot and visit the Bear Pit, the astronomical clock tower Zytglogge and the Einstein House. Next, travel to Lucerne and embark on a tour to visit the Old Chapel Bridge – the oldest wooden bridge in Switzerland, the Old Town with its unspoiled buildings covered with colourful murals and the Lion Monument. Retire for the night at a scenic lakeside resort in Zurich.

with impressive architecture and a variety of museums. View the statuesque Vaduz Castle, the neo-Gothic Cathedral of St. Florin and the Vaduz City Hall. Head back to your lakeside hotel to rest for the night.

DAY 9

ZURICH → SINGAPORE Breakfast, Meals on Board

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 10

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 8

ZURICH → ST. GALLEN → VADUZ → ZURICH Breakfast

Kick off the day with a trip down to St. Gallen – a charming, traffic-free metropolis situated in eastern Switzerland between Lake Constance and Appenzellerland. Make sure to visit their UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Abbey precinct with its famous Baroque cathedral and the Abbey Library, which is home to 170,000 old documents – some over a thousand years old – as well as Switzerland’s most beautiful Rococo hall. St. Gallen is also well-known for its exquisite oriels and the unique Stadtlounge, an art project that transformed the Bleicheli district into a massive recreation space drenched in red. After which, move along to Liechtenstein and enjoy a guided tour of its capital, Vaduz – a cultural treasure trove filled

Note: • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Winter activities are subject to weather conditions.

• Hotel upgrades are subject to hotel room availability.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

PHOTO: 123RF/AKULAMATIAU

DAY 5

for the

YO U ’ L L F I N D D E S I G N E R B R A N D S F O R 3 0 - 7 0 % L E S S AT M C A RT H U R G L E N D E S I G N E R O U T L E T S

AUSTRIA SWITZERLAND SLOVENIA

MILAN FRANCE

NOVENTA DI PIAVE VENICE

CROATIA

SERRAVALLE BARBERINO FLORENCE

ROME

Non-EU citizens can enjoy a tax refund on products purchased in our centres.

CASTEL ROMANO LA REGGIA NAPLES

10D7N

MAMMA MIA ITALY Often described as the world’s “living art gallery”, Italy is an exotic place with tangible and fascinating history, resplendent art and architectural masterpieces and countless antique treasures.

CINQUE TERRE, ITALIAN RIVIERA, ITALY

42 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/EMICRISTEA

TOUR CODE: ECCITA

HIGHLIGHTS ITALY MILAN • Sforza Castle • Milan Cathedral • La Scala Opera House • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II VENICE • St. Mark’s Square • Doge’s Palace • Bridge of Sighs • Glass blowing factory TUSCANY • Barberino Factory Outlet • Wine-tasting at Chianti vineyards

PISA • Piazza del Miracoli • Leaning Tower of Pisa CINQUE TERRE • Monterosso al Mare • Via dell’Amore Walk • Riomaggiore SIENA • Chiantishire ROME • Vatican City • St. Peter’s Basilica • Colosseum • Pantheon

ITALY

Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

1 1

La Spezia Cinque Terre

Milan

1

Venice Barberino Tuscany

2

Pisa

Rome

Siena

2

DELICACIES Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners

4★ HOTELS MILAN ATA VENICE B4 GENOA Holiday Inn TUSCANY Art Museo ROME Holiday Inn *Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, shopping or sightseeing in Milan before proceeding for dinner (pizza and pasta). You may wish to make an optional visit to Lake Como or the city of Lugano before you end your day.

DAY 3

MILAN → VENICE

prominent brands like Prada, D&G, Furla, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Laurent and Calvin Klein, no one is likely to leave empty-handed.

Drive through the coastal region of Western Tuscany and stop over at Pisa’s Piazza del Miracoli to round up the day with their iconic trio attractions: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistry and the Duomo. Head to the La Spezia region for your overnight stay.

Breakfast, Dinner – Chinese Fare DAY 1

SINGAPORE → MILAN Meals on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to the fashion capital of Italy, Milan.

DAY 2

MILAN Pizza and Pasta Dinner

Start off your day with an orientation tour around the city of Milan. Make your way to the Sforza Castle, a majestic fortress where noble lords of Milan used to reside.

Drop by the grandiose Milan Cathedral for shots of the elaborate Gothic exterior façade. Next, take a leisure stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some brief shopping, which will then lead you to Piazza della Scala – where a statue monument of Leonardo da Vinci is located.

Stop by the lavish La Scala Opera House for some pictures at one of the leading opera and ballet theatres in the world. Thereafter,

Make your way to the heart of Venice via a private water taxi, a unique and effective means of transport for a city built on water.

Then, set off on a guided tour around St. Mark’s Square and to the famous cathedral church St. Mark’s Basilica – nicknamed the ‘church of gold’ due to its opulent design and gold ground mosaics. Swing by the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, two of Venice’s main landmarks, for some breathtaking pictures to bring back as mementos.

Lastly, visit a glass blowing factory to learn more about the art of Murano glassmaking, an elite trade unique to Venice.

DAY 4

VENICE → BARBERINO → PISA → LA SPEZIA

Breakfast, Dinner – Local Fare

Spend the day in shopping heaven at the Barberino Designer Outlet with over 100 brand stores selling everything from clothes and cosmetics to appliances and shoes.

With great buys of up to 70% discount from

DAY 5

LA SPEZIA → CINQUE TERRE → TUSCANY Breakfast, Dinner – Chinese Fare

Brighten your morning by proceeding on to the main highlight of this trip, Cinque Terre – an enchanting cluster of villages perched on the rugged peaks along the Italian Riviera coastline. Begin with the Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages and embark on a boat tour (or train ride) to Manarola. Take a jaunt down the Via dell’Amore, otherwise known as the ‘Pathway of Love’, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and amorous grafitti along the path. Upon reaching the end of the path, you will find yourself in the village of Riomaggiore, boasting of romantic vistas over the Mediterranean Sea. Next, travel to Tuscany, often referred to as the birthplace of Italian Renaissance and the famous Chianti wine. You may wish to make an optional visit to Florence before you retire for the night.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 43

10D7N MAMMA MIA ITALY

ST. PETER’S BASILICA, VATICAN CITY, ROME, ITALY

DAY 6

DAY 7

DAY 9

Breakfast, Dinner – Local Fare

Breakfast, Dinner – Chinese Fare

Breakfast, Meals on Board

Escape from the city and make your way to the picturesque Medieval Village in Chiantishire, a delightful stretch of countryside located in Siena that is popular among the wealthy British. Explore the winding streets in the Historic Centre of Siena, a well-preserved city that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Stop by the Siena Cathedral, one of Italy’s top Gothic cathedrals decorated with intricate carvings and statues. Capture stunning photos at the Piazza del Campo; known for its architectural beauty as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, and visit Palazzo del Comune; a Renaissance structure otherwise known as the Town Hall. Then, visit one of the renowned Chianti vineyards in Central Tuscany and learn about Chianti wine-making, and a taste of one of the most famous and appreciated wines around the world. Proceed to Tuscany for the night.

44 Central Europe | EU Holidays

TUSCANY → ROME

Travel southwards to Rome and start off with a guided tour in the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built with a capacity of up to 80,000. Visit the Vatican City – a walled enclave within Rome and feast your eyes upon St. Peter’s Basilica, a Catholic shrine renowned for its Renaissance architecture.

View ‘The Pieta’, a magnificent work done by Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo, as well as other Italian works of art housed within the Basilica. Then, marvel at the masterpiece of the Trevi Fountain, the city’s largest Baroque fountain.

ROME → SINGAPORE

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 10

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 8

ROME Breakfast

Enjoy a free day of leisure for some shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure in Rome. You may wish to make an optional trip to Pompeii to enjoy a guided tour of its archaeological sites and find out how this ancient Roman civilization was buried following the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Explore the well-preserved city, including buildings, temples and other structures with their contents inside fully intact, as they offer you a glimpse of the fascinating day-to-day lives of the citizens during the ancient times.

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Activities are subject to weather conditions.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

PHOTO: 123RF/TOMAS1111

TUSCANY → SIENA

NEW N SIG DE TITLIS CLIFF WALK

RESTAURANTS

SNOW TUBING

TITLIS ROTAIR

ONE MOUNTAIN –�ALL�SEASONS Imagine a bright blue sky and the touch of sparkling fresh-fallen snow. Explore the world of eternal ice. Feel like an eagle and hover over stunning glacier crevasses.

Enjoy snow tubing at the Glacier Park. Mount TITLIS is a spot not to miss!

TITLIS GLACIER MOUNTAIN Discover the highest glacier mountain in the heart of Switzerland.

TITLIS ROTAIR NEW DESIGN! Ascend to a height of 10.000 feet in the world’s first revolving cable car.

ICE FLYER CHAIR LIFT Glide safely over stunning glacier crevasses.

STRASBOURG AMSTERDAM HAMBURG BASLE

LONDON

BRUSSELS PARIS

MUNICH

ZURICH

BERNE

Lucerne

STUTTGART

VIENNA

LUCERNE

ENGELBERG

GENEVA MARSEILLES BARCELONA

LUGANO MILAN ROME

WWW TITLIS CH

TITLIS GLACIER PARK Slide down the hill on a snow tube or a sledge.

TITLIS CLIFF WALK Enjoy the breathtaking view across snow-covered mountains and green valleys on the highest suspension bridge in Europe.

TITLIS SHOPPING Buy your gifts, chocolates and souvenirs at the highest located shop in Lake Lucerne Region.

TITLIS GLACIER MOUNTAIN WELCOME�TO�THE�HEART�OF�SWITZERLAND

TITLIS�CABLEWAYS��������������������������������� HOTELS�&�RESTAURANTS �����ENGELBERG SWITZERLAND�������������������������������� PHONE�������������������� TITLIS@TITLIS�CH��

CINQUE TERRE

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myriad of colours greet you at your first sight of Cinque Terre, a glorious cluster of villages precariously perched atop rocky cliffs overlooking the Liguran Sea. Made up of namely five villages – Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare, and together with the surrounding hillside and coastline, they are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Cinque Terre was carefully built upon terraces on the steep rugged cliffs over centuries, and due to its isolated location, the people’s main source of income came from fishing. If you ever wondered about the colourful buildings… well the reason behind that was so that the fishermen working at sea could identify their houses easily and check on their family. Before the advent of tourism in the 19th century which breathed life back into the area, Cinque Terre was actually declining into poverty due to increasing emigration of its people.

This utopian town is undoubtedly the best place to escape from the hurried, fast-paced city life for a few days of quiet and relaxation.

Cinque Terre remains a favourite destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering a soothing, laid back atmosphere that remains relatively unmarred by modernization and development. Even with the tourist hike to the area, the locals have chosen to limit vehicular access into Cinque Terre, but the five villages remain well-connected via footpaths, trains and boats. So take a gander along the traffic-free streets, stop by to make conversation with the charming locals or head near the sea for a breath of fresh, salty air – and embrace the lazy way of life.

PHOTO: 123RF/JAROSLAW PAWLAK

Discover the rugged beauty of the quaint villages perched on cliffs overlooking the Ligurian sea.

FEATURE

46 Central Europe | EU Holidays

Smart Seats with winged headrests.

That’s flying reimagined.

Isn’t it comforting to know that you can now enjoy so many little luxuries in Economy Class? Like the leather upholstered, winged headrest on our exclusive Economy Smart Seat.

Along with pillows, uniquely designed for longer flights.

And our new entertainment system not only looks better, it is actually ‘Live’ across 7 channels. It also sounds better, enjoyed through noise-cancelling headsets. Speaking of entertainment, we also provide a Flying Nanny to amuse the little ones, momentarily, when Mum and Dad need a break. Now that’s all class.

Flying Reimagined. etihad.com #Reimagined

11D8N

SOUTH ITALY, SICILY + MALTA Venture to the uncommon territories in Italy for an extraordinary escapade, where the wonders of nature and history will leave you exhilarated and inspired.

AZURE WINDOW, GOZO ISLAND, MALTA

48 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/LEONID TIT

TOUR CODE: ECITSA

HIGHLIGHTS

1

SOUTH ITALY

SICILY

ROME • Pantheon • Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) • Piazza Navona • Spanish Steps SORRENTO • Piazza Tasso • Chiesa di San Francesco • Via di San Cesareo CAPRI • Capri Village • Blue Grotto NAPLES • Triumphal Arch of the New Castle • St. Carlos Theatre • The Royal Palace • Galleria Umberto • Piazza Del Plebisito

PALERMO • Piazza Bellini • Church of the Immaculate Conception • The Cathedral MONREALE • Norman Cathedral AGRIGENTO • Valley of Temples TAORMINA • Greek-Roman Theatre • Corso Umberto I SYRACUSE • Shrine of Our Lady of Tears

Naples

1

Palermo

1 Catania

Agrigento

Syracuse

MALTA

SPECIAL Overnight ferry experience from Naples to Sicily

Meals on Board

*Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

Taormina

SICILY

Meal Plan

ROME Holiday Inn NAPLES Holiday Inn PALERMO Astoria Palace CATANIA Una Palace MALTA Golden Tulip

1

1

DAY 1

4★ HOTELS

ITALY

Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by cruise Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2 3

DELICACIES 8 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 4 Dinners

Sorrento

Capri

MALTA VALLETTA • Co-Cathedral of St. John • Upper Barrakka Gardens MDINA GOZO ISLAND • Azure Window • Calypso Cave • Ggantija Temples

Rome

SINGAPORE → ROME Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for the capital city of Italy, Rome.

DAY 2

ROME Dinner

Enjoy a novel side to Rome as you explore the more unconventional attractions. Marvel at the masterpiece of Trevi Fountain, the city’s largest Baroque fountain. Next, see the legendary Bocca della Verità, also known as the Mouth of Truth, and put your courage to the test by placing your hand in. Make sure to stop by the Piazza Navona, a veritable showcase of ornate fountains and baroque mansions, and view its main attraction – the Fountain of the Four Rivers. Last but not least, view the majestic Spanish Steps and the equally famous Barcaccia Fountain located at its foot.

3

DAY 3

ROME → SORRENTO Breakfast, Dinner

Start off with an orientation tour of Sorrento and visit its iconic attractions – Piazza Tasso square, Chiesa di San Francesco church and shopping street Via di San Cesareo.

You may also wish to make an optional trip to Pompeii to enjoy a guided tour of its archaeological sites and find out how this ancient Roman civilization was buried following the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.

Explore the well-preserved city, including buildings, temples and other structures with their contents inside fully intact, as they offer you a glimpse of the fascinating day-to-day lives of the citizens during the ancient times.

DAY 4

SORRENTO → CAPRI → NAPLES → SICILY Breakfast, Lunch

Explore the rugged beauty of the Isle of Capri through the city tour and their natural geological landscapes of caves, caverns, cliffs and peaks. Take a boat tour to check out the Blue Grotto, a renowned lagoon where the sunlight reflects off the limestone floor and walls, casting a brilliant shade of turquoise blue throughout the cave’s waters.

Thereafter, board on an overnight cruise which will take you to the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily Island.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 49

11D8N SOUTH ITALY, SICILY + MALTA

AGRIGENTO, SICILY

PALERMO Breakfast, Dinner

Depart for Palermo city and embark on a guided sightseeing tour, where you can take in the sights of Piazza Bellini, the bustling local market Mercato di Capo, the Church of the Immaculate Conception and its exquisite baroque architecture and the remarkable exterior of the Cathedral. Then, make your way to Monreale for a panoramic view at the Conca d’Oro and also drop by the Norman Cathedral for a view of their glorious gold mosaics.

DAY 6

PALERMO → AGRIGENTO → CATANIA Breakfast, Dinner

Go on a guided tour through the breathtaking Valley of the Temples in Agrigento; be awed by one of the most outstanding monuments of ancient Greek – a magnificent row of Doric temples supported by massive columns and pillars which opens up to the sky. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient Mediterranean city remains largely intact and well-preserved with 24 centuries of history.

50 Central Europe | EU Holidays

DAY 7

CATANIA → TAORMINA → SYRACUSE → MALTA Breakfast, Lunch

Brighten your morning with a visit to the charming hilltop town of Taormina that overlooks the Ionian Sea. Make your way to the Greek-Roman Theatre, whose damage during the wars afforded visitors a panoramic view of the seaside bays. Take a leisure stroll along the Corso Umberto I, the busy main street of Taormina where you can indulge in some shopping. Then, head to Syracuse to visit the sacred Shrine of Our Lady of Tears, within which you can find a small plaster image of the Madonna that was rumoured to have emanated tears in 1953. Proceed to Malta by ferry for your night’s stay.

DAY 9

MALTA → GOZO ISLAND → MALTA

Breakfast – Buffet Style

Board a ferry to the Gozo Island to visit its capital, Victoria. Visit iconic attractions such as the Azure Window, a towering limestone arch over the sea and the Calypso Cave, which according to Maltese tradition was where the nymph Calypso kept Odysseus as his prisoner. Move on to the Ggantija Temples, the oldest free standing structures dating back to 3600-3000 BC. DAY 10

MALTA → SINGAPORE Breakfast

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 8

DAY 11

Breakfast, Lunch

We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

MALTA → VALLETTA → MDINA → MALTA Jumpstart your day with a tour of capital city Valletta, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its long and eventful history.

Despite its small size, it is one of the densest historic areas, holding all 320 monuments from the numerous era of rulers. Enjoy a leisure walk to see the sights of the Co-Cathedral of St. John and the beautiful Upper Barrakka Gardens. Next, make a trip to Mdina and embark on a city tour of ‘the noble city’ with its impressive palaces and baroque architecture.

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Activities are subject to prevailing weather conditions.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

PHOTO: 123RF/EMICRISTEA

DAY 5

TRAVEL WITH EASE OF MIND AIG lets you travel the world with ease of mind. Travel Guard is the name for all travel products and services marketed by AIG. We will take care of your travel needs while you explore the world in complete freedom.

Be it for a short business trip or an extended family holiday, we provide you with 24-hour worldwide comprehensive protection with our wide range of product benefits and services.

Special Features

24-Hr Medical Assistance

^Covers in the event of Natural Disasters

^Unlimited Emergency Medical Evacuation (Section 7)

^Fraudulent Credit Card Usage (Section 22)

Covers All Ages

^Disruption Benefits – Unused Entertainment Tickets/ Frequent Flyer Points (Section 37)

^Overseas Medical Expenses coverage up to S$2,000,000 (Section 1)

^Reimburses Emergency Telephone Charges incurred Overseas (Section 13)

Pays from the First Dollar

Covers Leisure Amateur Sports

^Covers Loss/ Delay of Baggage (Section 23, 25)

^Covers Replacement Cost of Lost Travel Documents (Section 26)

^Terms & conditions apply

22 Northern & Southern America | EU Holidays

12D9N

ROMANTIC ITALY + MONTE CARLO Uncover the true essence of Europe as you drink in the breathtaking panoramas and resplendent cityscape presented to you from the Italian region.

CAPRI ISLAND, ITALY

52 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/LACHRIS77

TOUR CODE: ECITWA

Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by cruise Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

HIGHLIGHTS

FRANCE

MONACO MONTE CARLO • St. Nicholas Cathedral • Opéra de Monte-Carlo • Prince’s Palace of Monaco

ITALY CINQUE TERRE • Monterosso al Mare • Via dell’Amore Walk • Riomaggiore MILAN • Sforza Castle • Milan Cathedral • La Scala Opera House • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II VENICE • St. Mark’s Square • Doge’s Palace • Bridge of Sighs • Glass blowing factory PISA • Piazza del Miracoli • Leaning Tower of Pisa

SIENA • Chiantishire ASSISI • St. Francis Basilica NAPLES • Triumphal Arch of the New Castle • St. Carlos Theatre • The Royal Palace • Galleria Umberto • Piazza Del Plebisito CAPRI • Capri Village • Blue Grotto SORRENTO • Piazza Tasso • Chiesa di San Francesco • Via di San Cesareo POMPEII • Archaeological sites ROME • Vatican City • St. Peter’s Basilica • Colosseum • Pantheon

DELICACIES Meal Plan 9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 8 Dinners

4★ HOTELS GENOA Novotel MILAN Holiday Inn VENICE Crowne Plaza TUSCANY Art Museo ASSISI Fontebella NAPLES Novotel SORRENTO Central ROME Four Points Sheraton *Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

ITALY

Genoa Milan 1 Monaco

1

Venice

1 Cinque Terre Pisa

Tuscany

1

Siena Assisi

1

Nice

Naples

2 1

Rome

1

Pompeii

Capri Sorrento

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to the Mediterranean city of Nice.

the path. Upon reaching the end of the path, you will find yourself in the village of Riomaggiore, boasting of romantic vistas over the Mediterranean Sea. Next, travel to the fashion capital of Italy, Milan.

DAY 2

DAY 4

Dinner

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 1

SINGAPORE → NICE Meals on Board

NICE → MONACO → GENOA Depart for a scenic drive along the Mediterranean Coast to reach Monaco.

Stop in Monte Carlo and pay a visit to the St. Nicholas Cathedral and the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, an opera house built in a similar style to the Palais Garnier opera house in Paris under the same architect, Charles Garnier. Indulge in a panoramic view of the port and the Mediterranean from the Prince’s Palace of Monaco – the official residence of the Monaco royal family for 700 years. Cross over to Genoa for your overnight stay.

DAY 3

LA SPEZIA → CINQUE TERRE → MILAN Breakfast, Dinner

Brighten your morning by proceeding on to the main highlight of this trip, Cinque Terre – an enchanting cluster of villages perched on the rugged peaks along the Italian Riviera coastline. Begin with the Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages and embark on a boat tour (or train ride) to Manarola. Take a jaunt down the Via dell’Amore, otherwise known as the ‘Pathway of Love’, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and amorous grafitti along

MILAN → VENICE The first stop of the day is the Sforza Castle, a majestic fortress where noble lords of Milan used to reside. Drop by the grandiose Milan Cathedral for shots of the elaborate Gothic exterior façade. Next, take a leisure stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some brief shopping, which will then lead you to Piazza della Scala – where a statue monument of Leonardo da Vinci is located.

Stop by the lavish La Scala Opera House for some pictures before we break off for some leisure time. Thereafter, transfer to Venice and board a private water taxi to make your way to the heart of Venice. Then, set off on a guided tour around St. Mark’s Square and to the famous cathedral church St. Mark’s Basilica – nicknamed the ‘church of gold’ due to its opulent design and gold ground mosaics. Swing by the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, two of Venice’s main landmarks, for some breath-taking pictures to bring back as mementos. Lastly, visit a glass blowing factory to learn more about the art of Murano glassmaking, an elite trade unique to Venice. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure for some shopping and sightseeing in Venice before retiring for the night.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 53

12D9N ROMANTIC ITALY + MONTE CARLO

BLUE GROTTO, CAPRI, ITALY

DAY 5

DAY 7

DAY 10

Breakfast, Dinner

Breakfast, Dinner

Breakfast, Dinner

Drive through the coastal region of Western Tuscany and stop over at Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli to round up the day with their iconic trio attractions: the unique Leaning Tower of Pisa, the splendid Pisa Baptistry and the Duomo. Proceed to Tuscany for your overnight stay.

Journey to Naples today and embark on an orientation of the city – take in the sights of the majestic Castel Nuovo and its Triumphal Arch, the San Carlo Theatre, the Royal Palace of Naples, Galleria Umberto and the largest semicircular square in Naples, Piazza del Plebiscito.

DAY 6

DAY 8

Breakfast, Dinner

Breakfast, Lunch

Embark on a guided tour in the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built with a capacity of up to 80,000. Visit the Vatican City – a walled enclave within Rome and feast your eyes upon St. Peter’s Basilica, a Catholic shrine renowned for its Renaissance architecture. View ‘The Pieta’, a magnificent work done by Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo, as well as other Italian works of art housed within the Basilica. Then, marvel at the masterpiece of Trevi Fountain, the city’s largest Baroque fountain.

TUSCANY → SIENA → ASSISI Escape from the city and make your way to the picturesque Medieval Village in Chiantishire, a delightful stretch of countryside located in Siena that is popular among the wealthy British. Explore the winding streets in the Historic Centre of Siena, a well-preserved city that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Stop by the Siena Cathedral, one of Italy’s top Gothic cathedrals decorated with intricate carvings and statues. Capture stunning photos at the Piazza del Campo; known for its architectural beauty as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, and visit Palazzo del Comune; a Renaissance structure otherwise known as the Town Hall. Then, move on to Assisi, renowned for being the birthplace of religious founders St. Francis and St. Clare. Make a stop at the Basilica of St. Francis, a complex comprising of two churches, of which the Upper Basilica is more renowned for its sleek Gothic design and beautiful frescoes.

54 Central Europe | EU Holidays

ASSISI → NAPLES

NAPLES → CAPRI → SORRENTO Set across the Mediterranean Sea to the island of Capri, and take a boat tour to check out the Blue Grotto, a renowned lagoon where the sunlight reflects off the limestone floor and walls, casting a brilliant shade of turquoise blue throughout the cave’s waters. From Marina Grande, move to the town of Capri located just above the port.

Spend some time to explore this charming locale brimming with exclusive boutiques, restaurants and hotels. Then, board the hydrofoil boat and speed off to Sorrento. Go on an orientation tour of the town that begins from the Piazza Tasso and admire the works of the local craft tradition of wood inlay.

ROME

DAY 11

ROME → SINGAPORE

Breakfast, Meals on Board

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 12

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 9

SORRENTO → POMPEII → ROME Breakfast, Meals on Board

Get started with a visit to Pompeii to enjoy a guided tour of its archaeological sites and find out how this ancient Roman civilization was buried following the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Explore the well-preserved city, including buildings, temples and other structures with their contents inside fully intact, as they offer you a glimpse of the fascinating day-to-day lives of the citizens during the ancient times. Then, head to the city of Rome for the night.

Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Activities are subject to weather conditions.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

PHOTO: 123RF/ANTONIO GRAVANTE

VENICE → PISA → TUSCANY

13D10N

FALL IN LOVE WITH EUROPE Fall in love all over again with Europe as we bring you and your lover to the most romantic cities where passion abounds.

EIFFEL TOWER, PARIS, FRANCE

56 Central Europe | EU Holidays

PHOTO: 123RF/EKATERINA POKROVSKY

TOUR CODE: ECFILA

HIGHLIGHTS ITALY

SWITZERLAND

ROME • Vatican City • St. Peter’s Basilica • Colosseum • Roman Forum • Piazza Venezia VILLA D’ESTE POMPEII SIENA • Historic Centre • Siena Cathedral • Piazza del Campo • Palazzo del Comune PISA • Piazza del Miracoli • Leaning Tower of Pisa • Baptistery • Pisa Cathedral VENICE • St. Mark’s Square • Doge’s Palace • Bridge of Sighs • Glass blowing factory • Gondola ride • Overnight on Venice Island MILAN • Sforza Castle • Milan Cathedral

LUCERNE • Mt. Titlis (Entrance Included) SCHAFFHAUSEN • Rhine Falls

FRANCE

2 Paris

1

SWITZERLAND

Nancy Lucerne 2

GERMANY BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG • Titisee in Black Forest

1 Venice’s Islands

FRANCE

Milan

PARIS • Vintage car tour • Champs-Élysées • Arc de Triomphe • Place de la Concorde • Louvre Museum • Louvre Pyramid • Eiffel Tower (Entrance to 3rd level) OVERNIGHT IN NANCY

DELICACIES Meal Plan

Pisa

Tuscany

2

Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2

ITALY 2

Rome

EXCLUSIVE Open to 5-10 couples per tour group only, this luxurious group tour is tailored for lovers of Europe and offers plenty of free time for picture-perfect memories taken by a dedicated photographer who will accompany you on the trip.

10 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 6 Dinners

Specialty Meals Lunch at a Michelin 1-star Restaurant

DAY 1

SINGAPORE → ROME Meals on Board

4-5★ HOTELS

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to the capital city of Italy, Rome.

ROME Grand Hotel Palace TUSCANY Sheraton VENICE’S ISLANDS Hilton Hotel LUCERNE Radisson Blu NANCY Novotel Hotel PARIS Marriott

DAY 2

*Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.

ROME

of ancient Rome, with its clutter of archaic buildings and shrines – including the ancient former royal residence. Piazza Venezia is located a short walk away, where a massive monument dedicated to the first King of Italy dominates.

DAY 3

Lunch

ROME

Start the day with a visit to the Vatican City – a walled enclave within Rome and feast your eyes upon St. Peter’s Basilica, a Catholic shrine renowned for its Renaissance architecture. Later, be awed by the magnificent sight of the Colosseum, as you embark on a guided tour of the largest amphitheatre ever built that has a capacity of up to 80,000. Pass by the Roman Forum, known as the heart

Breakfast

Enjoy a free day of leisure for you to do some shopping or make up your own sightseeing itinerary. If you’re at a loss, why not take up an optional trip to Pompeii and explore its ancient archaeological sites, or join in on an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Villa d’Este, for its resplendent landscapes and gardens.

EU Holidays | Central Europe 57

13D10N FALL IN LOVE WITH EUROPE

GRAND CANAL, VENICE, ITALY

GALLERIA UMBERTO, NAPLES, ITALY GONDOLA RIDE IN VENICE, ITALY

ROME → SIENA → TUSCANY Breakfast, Dinner – Local Fare

Leave Rome and make your way to Siena, the embodiment of a medieval city. Explore the winding streets in the Historic Centre of Siena, a well-preserved city that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Stop by the Siena Cathedral, one of Italy’s top Gothic cathedrals decorated with intricate carvings and statues. Capture stunning photos at the Piazza del Campo; known for its architectural beauty as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, and visit Palazzo del Comune; a Renaissance structure otherwise known as the Town Hall.

58 Central Europe | EU Holidays

DAY 5

TUSCANY → PISA → BARBERINO → TUSCANY

Breakfast, Lunch – Michelin 1-star Restaurant

Depart for Pisa to view its iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, along with the Cathedral and Baptistery that make up the famous Piazza dei Miracoli. Continue on a tour around this Tuscan city, before heading to a Michelin 1-star restaurant for a gastronomic experience. Following that, treat yourself to a shopping spree at the Barberino Designer Outlet where you may find great buys of up to 70% discount from prominent brands like Prada, D&G, Furla, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Laurent, Calvin Klein and many more.

DAY 6

TUSCANY → VENICE’S ISLANDS Breakfast, Dinner – Local Fare

Board a unique water taxi that will take you to Venice’s city centre and set of on a tour of St. Mark’s Square and the famous St. Mark’s Basilica – nicknamed the ‘church of gold’ due to its opulent design and gold mosaics. Swing by the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, two of Venice’s main landmarks, then visit a glass blowing factory to learn more about the art of Murano glassmaking. Spend the night in a luxurious 5-star Hilton hotel on Venice’s Islands.

Note: A 2-way poterage service will be provided to Hilton Molino Stucky on Venice’s Islands.

PHOTOS: 123RF/IAKOV KALININ, ALEKSEY ARKHIPOV, JAROSLAW PAWLAK

DAY 4

SIENA, ITALY

DAY 7

VENICE’S ISLANDS → MILAN → LUCERNE Breakfast, Dinner – Local Fare

Journey on to Milan, where you’ll tour the grounds of the Sforza Castle, a majestic fortress where noble lords of Milan used to reside. Then, drop by the grandiose Milan Cathedral for some shots of the elaborate Gothic exterior façade. After which, travel to Lucerne to rest and recharge for the day.

DAY 8

LUCERNE → MT. TITLIS → LUCERNE Breakfast, Dinner – Local Fare

Start the day with an exciting excursion up to the peak of Mt. Titlis, where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountaintops and glittering landscapes.

During midday, enjoy some free time at leisure to explore some of the acclaimed glacier attractions before you head back to Lucerne for a spot of shopping.

DAY 9

LUCERNE → LAKE TITISEE → NANCY Breakfast, Dinner – French Fare

PHOTO: 123RF/MANGANGANATH

Get your day off to a great start with a visit to the largest waterfall in the whole of Europe – the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen, and let the scenes of wild, churning waters mesmerize you. Thereafter, make your way to Lake

Titisee in Black Forest to attend a cuckoo clock making demonstration in TitiseeNeustadt. Proceed on to Nancy where you’ll stay for the night.

DAY 10

NANCY → PARIS

DAY 12

PARIS → SINGAPORE

Breakfast, Meals on Board

Today, you will have the entire morning to yourself with the choice to either sleep in or explore Paris on your own till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Breakfast, Dinner

Begin your long awaited Paris adventure with a guided tour aboard an authentic vintage car – dive into the atmosphere of Paris in the 60s and 70s and see the city from a whole new perspective. Take in the sights of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum and its iconic Louvre Pyramid, Palais Garnier Paris Opera House and last but not least, the Arc de Triomphe.

Visit the cultural icon of Paris – the Eiffel Tower, for a panoramic view over the city from the third level.

DAY 13

ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.

DAY 11

PARIS

Breakfast

Enjoy a free day of leisure, shopping or sightseeing at your pleasure. You may wish to enjoy optional activities: a scenic Seine River cruise or a Moulin Rouge show.

Note: • To ensure the best experience, each tour is conducted with 5-10 couples only.

• The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• Winter activities are subject to weather conditions.

• Hotel upgrades are subject to hotel room availability.

• During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.

OLD CHAPEL BRIDGE, LUCERNEV, SWITZERLAND

EU Holidays | Central Europe 59

EXTRA PAMPERING FROM EU HOLIDAYS

EU Holidays Premium Customers can enjoy complimentary access to the Luxurious Premier Lounges at Singapore Changi Airport

Premium customers of EU Holidays can now enjoy complimentary access to the comforts of the three SATS Premier Club lounges found across all three terminals at Singapore’s Changi Airport.

Providing the highest level of comfort and luxury in air travel, each lounge is aesthetically designed with a touch of class and equipped with modern conveniences to serve the evolving needs of our customers.

Highlights of the SATS lounges include: • Free flow of refreshments that include local signature “delights” and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages • Workstations with high-speed Internet connectivity and wireless access • Cable television with a wide variety of programmes, channels and movies.

• A wide selection of international magazines and newspapers.

• Private rest booths with state-of-the art massage chairs • Pleasant shower amenities

SATS Premier Lounge T1 #031-67, Departure Transit Hall, Level 3 Operation Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

SATS Premier Lounge T2 #036-114, Departure Transit Hall, Level 3 Operation Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

SATS Premier Lounge T1 #03-MS-04, Departure Transit Hall, Level 3 Operation Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Tour Booking Terms and Conditions You and your traveling companions are deemed to have read, understood and accepted the following terms and conditions.

EU Holidays Pte Ltd shall be referred to as “the Company” in the following.

1. RESERVATION, DEPOSIT & FULL PAYMENT 1.1 A deposit is required upon reservation. If your minimum deposit is less than the required amount, kindly top up the difference within the next two days.

Tour Type All Group Tour Packages (Except USA) USA & special departure Group Tour Packages Free & Easy Packages Tour organized by third parties (e.g. luxury cruise, overseas landoperator, airline etc.)

Deposit required per person S$500 S$1000 50% - 80% of total tour fare Amount per Terms & Conditions stipulated by principal suppliers

1.2 Payment of deposit does not constitute confirmation of the tour. All group tours are subjected to a minimum group size (as determined by the Company) in order for the confirmation to be effected and for the departure to be finalized.

1.3 Full payment is required no later than fourteen days prior to departure. In case of tours in peak season, full payment must be made one month before departure. If full payment is not received by the stipulated deadline, the Company reserves the right to forfeit the deposit and cancel the reservation. In such an event, the cancellation fee as stated below is payable by the Customer.

2. CANCELLATION BY THE CUSTOMER 2.1 Cancellation of booking must be made in writing or in person to avoid any misunderstanding.

2.2 The following cancellation charges applied once any group tour package booking is made:

No. of days between departure and receipt of cancellation notice 35 workings days or more 15-34 working days 08-14 working days 04-07 working days 03 working days and less

Cancellation fee per person All tours except those in peak season Tours in peak season 50% of deposit or S$250 whichever is higher Full deposit or S$500 whichever is higher Full deposit or S$500 whichever is higher 50% of tour fare or S$500 whichever is higher 50% of tour fare or S$500 whichever is higher 75% of tour fare or S$500 whichever is higher 75% of tour fare or S$500 whichever is higher Full tour fare Full tour fare Full tour fare

2.3 For tour products or individual components supplied by third parties, e.g. air ticket, hotel bookings, Cruises etc, cancellation fees under the terms and conditions of the respective third parties shall apply plus a minimum handling charge of S$50 per service per person.

3. CANCELLATION BY THE COMPANY 3.1 The Company acts as an agent for service suppliers. After deposit or full payment has been made, all arrangements are still subject to final confirmation by service suppliers. If due to some unforeseen circumstances the arrangement cannot be finalized and the reservation has to be cancelled, the Company will endeavour to notify the Customer at least one week before departure. At times due to low subscription for a group tour, the Company may choose to cancel the entire tour fourteen days prior to departure.

3.2 The Company may recommend alternative tours either to the same destination or other tours, based on the tour fare of that cancellation period. Should the customer decide not to accept the alternatives, a full refund on the amount paid by the customer will be made accordingly by the Company without further obligation.

3.3 The Customer shall receive the refund within four to six weeks upon the Company notifying the Customer of the cancellation.

3.4 The Company shall also not be held liable for any contingent costs incurred by the Customer arising from the cancellation.

4. REFUND POLICY 4.1 No refund will be made with respect to accommodation, meals, sightseeing tours or any other services included in the tour fare but not utilized by the Customer, either in part or full, or when the Customer amends, cancels or otherwise changes any arrangements after commencement of the tour.

4.2 All refund will be made within four to six weeks in a form of cheque. For credit card payment, refund will be made through the credit card company.

4.3 Air tickets with refund value will only be refunded to customers four to six weeks after the respective airlines have refunded to the Company. The standard processing period for air tickets refund varies from three to six months (subject to individual airlines).

4.4 During peak period, the refund process may be longer due to increase in transactions.

5. AMENDMENT TO BOOKINGS (REQUESTED BY PASSENGERS) 5.1 For any changes in departure date or tour type, cancellation charges apply as listed under section on “Cancellation by the Customer”.

5.2 For every request made regardless of whether any previous amendments was confirmed by airlines, hotel or otherwise, there will be a minimum fee of S$100 per person per amendment. This does not include any other charges imposed by the airlines, ground operator or hotel.

5.3 Any change made by the Customer to the existing booking must be in writing or in person at least fourteen days before the tour, after which strictly NO amendments allowed, or cancellation charge applies.

6. AMENDMENT TO TOUR ITINERARY BY COMPANY The Company makes reasonable effort to avoid changes in the itinerary. However, the Company reserves the right to make minor changes at any time due to unforeseen circumstances, especially during peak periods or in the event of other circumstances beyond our control.

7. EXTENSION OF STAY / DEVIATION 7.1 Extension of stay may be permitted at the end of tour, subject to the restriction of the air ticket, seat availability and hotel confirmation prior to the commencement of the tour. All requests must be made before issuance of air tickets. If the extension of stay / deviation is unable to be confirmed three weeks prior to the group’s departure date, the passenger is deemed to stick to the original tour schedule. In the event that the original schedule has been changed by the Company, any extra cost will be borne by the Customer.

7.2 Extension of stay / deviation will be at passenger’s own expenses and transfer to the airport will not be provided.

7.3 It is the Customer’s responsibility to hold firm confirmation of their return flight and to re-confirm their flight 72 hours prior to their return date.

7.4 The air ticket issued is a special ticket, restricted to specific airline only. It is non-negotiable, non-endorsable, nonreissuable, non- refundable & non-reroutable. Any alteration in routing or dates by the Customer is solely at his/her own risk. The Company and its associated agents will not be held responsible for any inconvenience caused and extra expenses incurred. No refunds will be made for any unused air ticket, accommodation, meals, or sightseeing in part or full.

8. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, TRAVEL INSURANCE & TRAVEL VOUCHERS 8.1 Passport and other Travel Documents It is Customer’s sole responsibility to ensure that he / she has a valid passport with minimum 6 months validity from the date of scheduled return to Singapore, as well as the necessary visas, vaccinations, health certificates and all necessary travel documents as required by various government authorities of the destinations of travel.

8.2 Visa 8.2.1 The Customer may seek advice from the Company on visa application; however it is Customer’s own responsibility to obtain a valid visa.

8.2.2 If for any reason, application for visa or exit permit is rejected, full refund less S$100 administrative fee (excluding visa application fees paid to the respective embassies) will be made if the result of the rejection is submitted to the Company at least 35 days prior to departure. If less than 35 days’ notice is given, relevant cancellation fee as stated under section “Cancellation by the Customer” will be applied.

8.2.3 In consideration for the interests of other passengers in the same group, the Company strongly discourage ALL passengers from applying Visa upon Arrival at destiny country. The Company takes no responsibility being unable to wait for the passengers who apply Visa upon Arrival at the Custom.

8.2.4 The Company will not be responsible for any expenses, reimbursement or refund of the tour fare if the Customer is deported or refused entry by immigration authorities on the tour for whatever reasons, including improper travel documents, quarantine, custom regulations, possession of unlawful items or irregularities that may cause harm or damage to person or property.

8.3 Travel Insurance 8.3.1 Arrangement of travel insurance coverage is strongly recommended with respect to unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellation, loss of deposit, baggage, personal accident, injury, illness, etc. Under no circumstances shall the Company be constructed as a carrier under a contract for safe carriage of the Customer or his / her baggage and other personal belongings.

8.3.2 The Company shall not be responsible for any loss or damage in relation to trip cancellation, loss of personal baggage, accidents, injuries and illness.

8.3.3 Should there be any amendment to the date and duration of travel, it is Customer’s responsibility to inform the travel insurance company to amend the date and duration of the insurance coverage.

8.3.4 The Company will be pleased to assist in the enquiries of any travel insurance and related matters.

8.4 Travel Vouchers The company issues travel vouchers from time to time as part of its promotional activities. The terms and conditions for the redemption of travel vouchers are clearly spelt out in the appropriate documents and shall be binding on the Customer.

9. GENERAL MATTERS RELATING TO TOURS 9.1 Accommodation Accommodation is as specified in the tour brochure / itinerary / tour booking form. In the event the specified accommodation is not available, every effort will be made to scout for an alternative in another accommodation of similar standard. Accommodation for adults is based on twin- share, double or triple-share bedrooms. Please note that the third bed usually will be a “roll-away” bed. Single room occupancy is at additional cost.

9.2 Baggage The Customer is allowed check-in baggage not exceeding 20 kilograms. Only one piece of hand luggage not exceeding 7 kilograms is allowed on board the aircraft. Excess baggage must be paid directly by the Customer.

9.3 Meals Meals, including meals on board flights, are as indicated in the tour brochure / itinerary / tour booking form. If meals on board are not served due to whatever reasons, there shall be no refund or replacement.

9.4 Seat Rotation For the convenience of all members of the group, passengers may be requested to rotate their seating arrangements on the coach during the period of the tour. Please cooperate when requested upon to do so by the tour manager / tour leader / guide.

9.5 Special Request If there are any requests regarding special meals, dietary requirements, adjoining rooms, flight seating arrangement and so on, please inform the Company upon booking. However, such requests are strictly subject to confirmation and availability by the airlines/hotels.

10. PRICING POLICIES 10.1 Tour Fare Includes Return economy class group tour air ticket, local transport, accommodation, admission fees, meals and sightseeing programme as stipulated in the tour brochure / itinerary / tour booking form.

10.2 Tour Fare Excludes Airport taxes, airport security taxes, airline insurance surcharges, fuel taxes, visa fees, travel insurance, customs user fees as specified by the airline and airport authorities; local transfer not stated in the itinerary (e.g. free & easy, deviation), laundry, excess baggage charges, beverages, room services, gratuities to drivers and tour managers / local guides and tips to hotel porters (if any); and personal expenses. Please refer to the Company for visa fees, gratuities to drivers and tour managers / local guides, and tips to hotel porters.

10.3 Child Fare Child fare is applicable to children below 12 years old on the scheduled date of departure from Singapore. The child fare is based on a twin-sharing accommodation with two adults and no additional bed will be provided. A surcharge will be imposed where an extra bed is required for the child or where the child occupies a room with only one adult.

10.4 Mode of Payment Payment may be made in cash, by NETS, cheques or credit cards. Cheques will only be accepted if presented to the Company at least seven working days before scheduled tour departure. Credit card payment may incur additional surcharge for special promotion packages, you may refer to our staff for confirmation.

11. RESPONSIBILITY 11.1 The Company acts as agent for the carriers, transportation companies, hotels and other principals of the tour packages.

The Company accepts no responsibility for any injuries, losses, damages, accidents, delays, theft, quarantine, customs regulations, strikes, weather hazards, political unrest, changes in itineraries, deportation or refusal of entry by Immigration Authorities resulting from improper travel documents, possession of unlawful items or irregularities that may be caused to person or property. Any losses and/or expenses incurred are the responsibility of the passenger. All proper travel documentation is the sole responsibility of the Customer.

11.2 The failure of the Customer to follow reasonable instructions including but not limited to check-in and check-out places or times or other cause and the losses and/or expenses resulting therefore shall be borne by the Customer.

11.3 The Company reserves the right to: 11.3.1 Alter tour itineraries, travel arrangements, accommodation due to unforeseen changes.

11.3.2 Cancel any reservations prior to departure for reasons including but not limited to the insufficient number of participants. The Company will recommend alternative tours, preferably to the same destination or to other destination. Should the Customer decided not to accept the alternatives, the deposit or tour fare to be refunded without further obligation on the part of the Company, upon Customer’s surrender to the Company of all documents issued by the Company for the purpose of the tour package.

11.3.3 Require any individual to withdraw from the tour if it is deemed that his/her behaviour is detrimental to or incompatible with the health, safety, interests, harmony and welfare of the other tour participants and the tour group as a whole. Under such circumstances, the Company shall be under no liability thereafter to any such person.

11.3.4 To specify the language in which the tour guide will conduct commentary in.

11.4 No tour guides, tour managers, tour leaders or other employees or agents of the Company are authorized to commit the Company to any liability and the Company shall not be bound by any statement or representation unless it is in writing and signed by a Management Executive of the Company.

11.5 The Company reserve the right to take photographs and films of the passenger while on tour with the Company, to be used for brochures advertising or publicity material without obtaining any further consent from the passenger.

11.6 All tour fares for the respective tour packages are correct at the time of reservation. The Company reserves the right to revise the tour fares and to determine the date of commencement of such revised tour fares.

12. COMPLAINT & CLAIM Any complaint / claim have to be made in writing within 7 days from the date of return. No responsibility is accepted in respect of any complaints / claims, which are made after 7 days of return.

13. MISCELLANEOUS The Company reserves the right to change, amend, insert or delete any Tour Booking Terms and Conditions containing in this document, as the case may be, without prior notice. The Tour Booking Terms and Conditions complement those terms and conditions contained in the relevant documents provided by third party service providers such as airline or cruise tickets, hotel check-ins etc.

EXPLORE OUR ENTIRE SERIES

Please approach our friendly staff at any of our sales counters for a copy of these Travel Journals, or visit our website to view the digital version.

BOOK A TRIP WITH

EU HOLIDAYS CONTACT US

VISIT US

Tel: +65 6535 8535 Fax: +65 6307 7060 Email: enquiry@euholidays.com.sg Web: www.euholidays.com.sg

EU Holidays Pte Ltd

Chinatown Point 133 New Bridge Road #03-11/12/13/14/16A/18 Singapore 059413 Mon to Sat: 10am – 8.30pm Sun & PH: 11am – 7pm

EU MICE Pte Ltd

Fook Hai Building 150 South Bridge Road #01-21 Singapore 058727 Tel: 6307 7099 Mon to Sat: 9am – 6pm Sun & PH: Closed

EU Asia Holidays Pte Ltd Chinatown Point 133 New Bridge Road #03-12 Singapore 059413 Tel: 6307 7878 Mon to Sat: 10am – 8.30pm Sun & PH: 11am – 7pm