Explore the World 2020-21 USD by STA Travel Ltd

Our

S tory

S TA RTI N G TH E A DV ENTURE FOR M ORE TH A N 40 YE A RS

Yep, in 2019, we turned 40. We know, right? Exploring really is the elixir of life. Which means it was 40 years ago since our flare-wearing forefathers, inspired by their own far-flung adventures, founded STA Travel with one mission: to create affordable adventures for awesome humans. Since then, we’ve grown from two backpackers into the world’s largest student and youth travel company, helping travellers everywhere to discover the world. We’ve crossed borders to push boundaries, walked unfamiliar paths to find new friends, and got lost to discover the places we love. A lot may have changed over the years. (Google Maps has certainly helped, thank you Google + travel gods). But our philosophy never has. We’re still the only place to #StartTheAdventure. And now, with this brochure, it’s your turn.

W HAT ' S I N S I D E

02 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 26 28 32 34 62 64 65 66 67 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 85 88 90 91 94 99 100 101 105

Our story Why travel with us Get trip ready Find your travel style Who we travel with VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN Learn a language Internships in the UK & Ireland Volunteering EUROPE UK & Europe festivals & events Eurail Europe touring London Paris Amsterdam Berlin Barcelona & Madrid Rome Florence Venice Athens & the Greek Islands Scandinavia & Russia Reykjavík AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST Trek Kilimanjaro Egypt Israel Morocco ASIA Singapore Bangkok Thailand Myanmar

106 107 109 113 114 116 117 122 124 126 134 135 136 138 142 150 154 156 160 163 170 173 175 176 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 196

Cambodia Vietnam Bali Hong Kong China Korea Japan India Nepal AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Sydney Melbourne & beyond Queensland New Zealand LATIN AMERICA Inca Trail Cuzco & Machu Picchu Galápagos Islands Colombia Argentina, Brazil & Chile Costa Rica & Panama Mexico Cancún & the Yucatan NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN New York Las Vegas National Parks Los Angeles San Francisco Miami Dominican Republic & Bahamas Canada TERMS & CONDITIONS

WHY

T R AVE L EXPE RT S WE KNOW BECAUSE WE GO

Travellers themselves, our Travel Experts are all about sharing their adventures, so that you can start yours.

Us ? $49

FROM

W IT H

L E V A TR DEPOSIT Never miss out on the best deals. Book now pay later on flights, tours and beach trips.*

24/7 HELP

Wherever you are in the world, our STA Travel Cares team are online and on the phone 24/7 to help. FOLLOW FOR TRAVEL TIPS, TREATS AND TWEETS @STATravelCares

THE ORIGINAL

NOT J U S T FO R STUDENTS

We have airfares and adventures for everyone. For us, adventure isn't an age or a status, it's a mindset.

ROUND THE WORLD EXPERTS Experts in Round the World wizardry, we've worked with the world's leading and 5-star airlines for 40 years to create unique and flexible multi-stop routes that you won't find anywhere else.

S TU D EN T, TEACHER & U N D ER 31 D I S CO UNT S Talk thirty to me! Under 31s and teachers can now travel on many of our exclusive BlueTicket student fares.#

* Deposits start from $49 and are non-refundable, non-transferable and payable at the time of booking. Full payment is due 60 days prior to your scheduled departure. Not all products are eligible for deposit. Additional terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/book-now-pay-later-special.htm for more information # Proof of eligibility required (you may need to purchase an ISIC, ITIC or IYTC card, as applicable). Available on selected routes. Eligibility varies with each airline. Student age restriction may also apply. Additional terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/blue-ticket.htm for more information ^ Any difference in the fare and applicable taxes as a result of a change will still be payable. All date changes are subject to availability and ticket conditions. MultiFLEX passes do not cover the cancellation of tickets. Not all fares are eligible for MultiFLEX. Additional terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/multiflex-pass.htm for more information

making a STAnd.

RESPONSIBLE

Voluntourism

EXPLORING, NOT EXPLOITING

Making a STAnd to help make STA TRAVEL'S STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT a world of difference.

BOOK

It's a sad fact that WITH USoften well-intentioned volunteer projects can be mismanaged, exploiting communities rather than helping them.

24/7

From turtle conservation in Costa Rica to building homes in ON PHONE Nepal, we support more & than 50 projects in over 30 countries. LIVE CHAT Our Volunteering Codes of Conduct ensure that we only work with projects that can prove to have a lasting and positive ANIMAL WELFARE impact, meeting the local needs of communities through sustainability rather than dependency, as well as meeting the desires of travellers to make a genuine contribution. ADVENTURES We operate a comprehensive

We don’t support any activity that hurts or humiliates animals, and encourage our travellers to do the same. We were one of the first travel companies to make a stand on animal welfare, withdrawing products that go against our pioneering policy, including an outright ban on elephant riding, ostrich riding, captive whales and dolphins, Thailand’s Tiger Temple and Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls.

FLEXIBLE

For us, travel is about freedom and discovery. Our flexible deposits and MultiFLEX^ passes mean that if your plans change on the road, so can your flights, tours, accommodation and transport.

customer safety policy that not only keeps our travellers safe, but also helps to benefit the local suppliers we work with. If a property doesn’t meet our standards, we work with the owners so they can become compliant. This approach helps to raise the standards of health and safety globally, and boost their profitability locally.

WE’RE

YOUNG PEOPLE LIVING WITH CANCER

GLOBAL

eople Trusted by travellers since every hour.1979, we are the world's largest

student and youth travel company. With over 220 stores worldwide, ine teen from Auckland to Aberdeen, e world to we're never too far away.

vital funds. SUPPORTING TEEN CANCER CHARITIES

CUSTOMER SAFETY MATTERS

In the USA, eight young people are diagnosed with cancer every hour. We’ve joined forces with nine teen cancer charities around the world to help raise awareness and vital funds. You can help make a world of difference by adding just $2 to your booking. 100% of your donation will go to Teen Cancer America.

WORK & VOLUNTEER SPECIALISTS From working holidays to volunteer projects and language courses, we believe that travel has the power to expand minds, change thinking, and bring people and cultures closer together.

We only sell vetted volunteer projects, and currently support 50 projects in almost 40 countries. Our volunteering charter is designed to ensure that we only work with projects that have proven to have a lasting and positive impact, meeting the needs of local communities through sustainability rather than dependency, as well as meeting the desires of travellers to make a genuine contribution.

S T A

T R A V E L

SUSTAINABLE VOLUNTOURISM

Get trip

READ Our quick guide to staying safe, saving money and going green on your next adventure.

THE ESSENTIAL-LIST

INSURANCE On top of the cancellation, medical and luggage cover you’d expect from our travel insurance, you’ll also find some inclusions you wouldn’t. Our travellers aren’t ordinary, so our insurance cover isn't either.

VACCINATIONS Visit your doctor at least ten weeks before departure.

VISAS Our visa service is safe, speedy and free of boring embassy queues.

PASSPORT Check you have 6+ months validity left and enough pages for all those new stamps!

SAFETY Visit www.usa.gov for travel, cultural and safety advice for everywhere you're travelling to.

*You must be a full-time student (studying for a minimum of 12 weeks during one academic year), a full-time teacher (teaching for a minimum of 18 hours per week and one academic year) or under 31 to qualify for the corresponding ISIC, ITIC or IYTC product. Additional terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/discount-cards.htm for more information and the most up-to-date terms and conditions ◊ Deposits start from $49 and are non-refundable, non-transferable and payable at the time of booking. Full payment is due 60 days prior to your scheduled departure. Not all products are eligible for deposit. Additional terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/book-now-paylater-special.htm for more information ^ Any difference in the fare and applicable taxes as a result of a change will still be payable. All date changes are subject to availability and ticket conditions. MultiFLEX passes do not cover the cancellation of tickets. Not all fares are eligible for MultiFLEX. Additional terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/multiflex-pass.htm for more information ∞ Terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/small-group-adventures.htm / statravel.com/contiki-tours.htm for more information

STA TRAVEL DISCOUNT CARDS Discount cards rock our world. And if you're a student, under 31 or a teacher, they can rock yours, too.* C H O O S E YO U R C A R D: INTERNATIONAL STUDENT IDENTITY CARD ( F U LL T I M E S T U DE N T S )

You'll need: One passport sized photo, proof of age (driver's license, passport, birth certificate, 18+ card), proof of full-time education (official letter/ documentation from your place of study) INTERNATIONAL TEACHER IDENTITY CARD ( F U LL T I M E T E AC H E R S )

You'll need: One passport sized photo, proof of age (same as ISIC above), proof of full-time teaching status (official letter or documentation, from your place of study) INTERNATIONAL YOUTH TRAVEL CARD (ANYONE 30 YEARS OLD OR YOUNGER)

You'll need: One passport sized photo, Proof of age (same as ISIC above) All ISIC/ITIC/IYTC cards are valid for 12 months from date of issue.

SAVE MO N E Y BULK UP

STUDENT SWAG

First rule of flight club? Book early. Lock in the lowest airfares and best flight and tour availability with our deposit options from $49, paying the balance 60 days before you fly.◊

Save money by buying in bulk before you go. Our bedhopper passes, bus and rail passes will save you heaps over buying individual nights and journeys on the road. Plus, if your money starts to run out, you know you've got the essentials covered!

Get flight discounts with us, plus 150,000+ travel, clothing and lifestyle discounts at home and on the road with a student, under 31 or teacher ISIC, IYTC or ITIC card. Now available with a plastic-free virtual card in the ISIC app, from $20.*

FLEX IT Avoid change fees and stay flexible by adding a MultiFLEX pass to your flights. Any difference in the fare and applicable taxes as a result of a change will still be payable. Ask your Travel Expert for more details.^

> > >

BOOK EARLY

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS Take advantage of multi-trip offers and repeat booking discounts with some of our favourite suppliers, such as guaranteed 5% off Contiki repeat bookings and 10% off G Adventures repeat bookings exclusive to us. See pages 10 and 11.∞

TR A S H TA L K

As travellers and all-round awesome humans, it’s time to start thinking about what we take with us from our world, into theirs.

T R AV E L

STAnd up, go green, do good.

HOW YOU LIVE

Barbie was wrong, plastic is not fantastic. Download the Refill App to find and fill up your water bottle for free on the road, including at many STA Travel stores.

ingle use is no use. If one S person stopped buying a takeaway coffee cup every day for 40 years, it would save 24 trees. Take a collapsible coffee cup with you on your travels.

Keep it clean, beaches! 1 in 3 marine mammals have been found to be tangled up in marine litter. Join a beach clean or join one of our marine conservation projects or voluntours.

For more green travel tips, visit the STA Travel Blog.

FIND YO U R TRAV EL

NE WOLF LO

ST L

A T H

STYLE uit s o t s ip r t e v a h e W r. e ll e v a r t f o d in k y ever are? Not sure what you . Take our short quiz

A fearless solo and independent traveller. Prone to veering off the beaten path and agreeing to a parttime job herding goats. GO YOUR OWN WAY >> WORKING ABROAD

Live and work abroad with our job support and starter packs. INDEPENDENT TOUR

W H AT DO YOU LOV E

W HAT D O YO U WA N T F RO M

M OS T A BOUT TRAV EL?

YO UR NEX T T R I P ?

A Getting lost and finding your

A F reedom to travel on your own terms

way again

B Stepping out of your

B A chance to give back to the places you visit

comfort zone

Breaking away from routine

D Meeting new people

F lexibility. You don't want to be tied down to one plan

D B ig sights, big adventures, big laughs

ONE T HI NG YOU WON' T

Private tours and treks that can fit around your plans. FREESTYLE TRAVEL PASSES Save money with a rail or bus pass and get an epic view from A to B. SELF-DRIVE

We provide the route, the maps and the rooms, you hire the car. INDI

Our tailor made product, create your own bespoke and INDIvidual private itinerary with our INDI Tailor Made Experts.

T RAVE L WI THOUT

HOW D O YO U S E E YO U R S E LF

DAY TRIP

A A phone full of travel apps

O N T HE ROA D?

Find your feet or a tried-and-trusted stranger to jump out of a plane with.

and maps

B Re-usable everything C

An immortal portable charger

D A designated photographer

A I ndependent B Responsible

LEARN A SKILL

Become a skiing instructor, a game ranger or an English teacher with a certified course.

Commitment-phobe

D Easy-going

A 1 2 3

PLAYER

S T LY

D T E

C F LE OS

T LY

B TR E

T R A V E L

IAN TAR I X

S T A

GGER HU

A metaphorical hugger of trees, people and animals, and all-round good pal of the planet. You want to give back to the places you visit.

You don't know where you'll be tomorrow, let alone next month, so you want flexible schedules and open-dated trips.

An adventurous spirit, you like the safety net of travelling with likeminded people, only without all the planning and legwork.

MAKE A CHANGE >>

KEEP THE WORLD GUESSING >>

FIND YOUR CREW >>

VOLUNTEERING

FLEXIBLE

ADVENTURE TOURING

We support over 50 volunteering projects worldwide, all vetted to make sure you make a sustainable and meaningful contribution.

With our flexible range of flights, tours, hotels, hostels, bus and rail passes, you can now make flexible payments at home and have flexible dates on the road. So if your plans change, so can your trip.

Guided by locals, this is the opposite of following the crowd. Good things include local homestays, included activities, meals, guaranteed drinking partners, getting under the tourist radar and not getting lost.

FREESTYLE TRAVEL PASSES

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Travel with the security of knowing your transport is paid for, but with the freedom to hop on and oﬀ at your own pace.

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

VOLUNTOURING

Take part in one or multiple volunteering projects, and pair it up with a group tour with your fellow volunteers. ADVENTURE TOURING

Our suppliers care about the planet as much as we do. Look out for the Contiki Cares and G for Good logos on trips which visit projects that help provide education and a sustainable economy in local communities.

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s OVERLAND GROUP ADVENTURE ESCORTED ADVENTURE

CAMPERVAN HIRE

The ultimate in freedom and. independence, these trailer park travellers go round the outside.

LO O K O UT FO R T H E SE TAG S O N THE T RIPS I N T H IS B RO CH U R E

Who

W E T R AV E L W I T H We're all about partnering with likeminded suppliers who share our ethos and our love of exploring.

Champions of small group travel and worldly curators of some of our favourite adventures for over 20 years.

G FOR GOOD PROJECTS

LED BY LOCALS

THE RIPPLE SCORE

ADVENTURE BY NAME

LIFETIME DEPOSITS

G Adventures supports a number of community tourism projects to give back to the places they travel to and are a part of the tour experience.

All trips are led by certified local guides known as Chief Experience Officers, full of priceless insider knowledge and tips.

Each G Adventures tour has a Ripple Score, so you know exactly how much money goes back into the communities you visit.

... adventure by nature. With transport, some activities and accommodation included, you’ll have heaps of free time to do your own thing.

Cancelling or postponing? Put it towards another trip in the future – your deposit is protected for life.*

WH Y BOO K WI TH STA TRA VEL ?

TRIP STYLES

As their preferred Because G Adventures love us, too! exclusive to us. partner, we have access to offers

18-TO-THIRTYSOMETHINGS: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Light on frills, heavy on experience. JOURNEYS: More inclusions, Exclusive to 18-39s. deeper exploration and exclusive access. CLASSIC: Huge variety. Something for everyone, with free time built in. Plus MARINE, WELLNESS, RAIL and LOCAL LIVING. ACTIVE: Hiking tours with equipment and experts on-hand.

EXC LUS IVE 10% REP EAT DISC OUN

with us, we’ll give you If you book your G Adventures tour es booking. ntur Adve G 10% off your next FREE ISIC OR IYTC CAR D**

S T A

h discount card that helps What’s this? Only a student or yout e. Free when you book dwid you bag tons of discounts worl with us. trip es ntur your G Adve

T R A V E L

5% MUL TIPL E TRIP DISC OUN T*

ing some other trips soon, If you know you’re going to be book we’ll give you 5% discount. and y book three or more tours toda only $250!* You can also secure your trip from

* Repeat discount is not applicable to all tours, and only redeemable on completion of trip evaluation form. Three or more tours must be confirmed on the same day to redeem Multiple Trip Discount. Discounts cannot be combined. Additional terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/small-group-adventures.htm for more information ** Free discount card offer is for selected discount cards and is not available on all G Adventures tours (National Geographic tours are excluded). Additional offer terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/small-group-adventures.htm for more information. Eligibility requirements apply to discount cards. You must be a full-time student (studying for a minimum of 15 hours per week for 3 months), a full-time teacher or under 31 to qualify. Additional eligibility terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/discount-cards.htm for more information

Contiki live for taking young travellers to exciting parts of the globe, with tours strictly for 18 to 35-year-olds. Get ready to share your love of travel!

Contiki are committed to ethical, sustainable tourism. Wherever you are on Earth, you can rest assured you’ll be treading on it lightly.

THE BEST

AUTHENTIC LOCAL

SPECIAL

FLEX

TEAM

EXPERIENCES

STAYS

DEPOSIT

Trip Managers know their patch even better than Google Maps, so they’ll help you dive deep into to the local culture and avoid the tourist traps.

What you do is just as important as where you go. Contiki’s experiences include foodie odysseys, cultural deep-dives and wellness activities.

Where you sleep is part of the Contiki adventure. Think eco-friendly lodges in the Amazon and stays at one of Contiki’s ME to WE villages.

Changed your mind? Don’t panic! You never lose your Contiki deposit. Put it towards another trip in the future or gift it to a friend.^

TRIP STYLES DISCOVERER: Cover big ground with included experiences and comfy twin-share accommodation.

IN-DEPTH EXPLORER: Slower paced, longer stays and geared to get you living like a local.

ICONIC ESSENTIALS: Stretch your budget on big trips with icons and essential experiences included.

Plus, SKI & SNOWBOARD, SHORT TRIPS & FESTIVALS and SAILING.

WH Y BOO K WI TH STA TRA VEL ? can offer exclusive As Contiki’s preferred partners, we companies can’t. el trav r othe ts perks and discoun DEP OSIT S FRO M $20 0^

sits starting from Lock in your Contiki trip with depo ks before you go. wee 10 $200 and pay off the rest 5% DISCOUNT FOR STUDENTS AND

REPEAT TRAVELLERS^

Travelled with Contiki before? STA Travel! Here’s a 5% discount, exclusive to 5% MULTIPLE TRIP DISCOUNT^

both. Book two trips Can’t decide between two trips? Do the cheaper one. of 7 days or longer and get 5% off

^Terms and conditions apply. See statravel.com/contiki-tours.htm for more information or ask your Travel Expert †Travel pass only

We love Busabout's freestyle form of travel and unique hop-on hop-off coach network. Perfect for freedomloving globetrotters who want to retain some flexibility.

FLEXIBLE TRAVEL

EASY ARRIVALS

BUSABOUT ADVENTURES

Busabout’s hop-on hop-off coach network lets you decide where you go and how long for. They also let you change your plans as often as you like FOR FREE.†

Arriving at a new city can be overwhelming after a multicountry nap. Busabout offer door-to-door pick-ups and drop-offs at popular hostels, so you don’t have to think about finding your way.

On top of their coach networks, Busabout have curated islandhopping trips, in-depth tours and festival stays across the world, which you can enjoy on their own or as part of your hop-on hop-off trip.

CANADA

GERMANY FRANCE

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA SPAIN

SWITZERLAND

ITALY

GREECE NEPAL ISRAEL INDIA

MEXICO CUBA GUATEMALA

SRI LANKA

COSTA RICA GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS

MALDIVES

COLOMBIA KENYA

ECUADOR

TANZNIA SEYCHELLES

BRAZIL

PERU

BOLIVIA

ZIMBABWE MADAGASCAR

SOUTH AFRICA CHILE

ARGENTINA

MAURITIUS

WE LOVE >>>>> WORKING HOLIDAYS

Live and work in the UK or Ireland with our range of internships and working holiday programs. Work in hospitality, retail or admin. See more of Working Holidays on pages 16-17. JAPAN

LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE

CHINA

Boost your resume, get to travel and totally immerse yourself in a new culture with our standard and intensive language courses in Europe and South America. MYANMAR

See more of Learn a Language on pages 14-15.

LAOS

THAILAND

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

PHILIPPINES

WORK WITH CHILDREN MALAYSIA

Work with underprivileged children in Central and South America. Based at a school or day centre, you’ll play games and help with English lessons and homework.

BORNEO

INDONESIA FIJI AUSTRALIA

See more of Working with Children on page 22. LOOK AFTER ANIMALS

Care for friendly ellies in Thailand, help endangered turtles in Costa Rica or lend a hand at a big cat sanctuary in South Africa with our range of animal-based programs. See more of Looking After Animals on pages 20 & 23-25. NEW ZEALAND

CONSERVATION

Get stuck in with beach cleans, data collection, tree planting and recycling initiatives. You’ll also help spread the word to tourists and local communities. See more of Conservation on pages 20-21 & 23.

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

Language

LEARN

BACKPACKING THROUGH SOUTH AMERICA?

Schedule in some classes in Buenos Aires, Cuzco or Cartagena and get your holas and your una cerveza por favors in order. JETTING OFF TO ASIA?

Master the art of Japanese or Mandarin and you’ll be ordering sushi or dumplings like a pro in no time. ESCAPING TO EUROPE?

Everything’s sexier in Europe, including languages. Add some joie de vivre, la dolce vita or pura vida (that’s French, Italian or Spanish) to your repertoire and watch the admirers come running.

Recent studies show that people with more than one language in their worldly pockets are smarter and more creative than their monoglot pals. Our language study partner, Linguista, offers more than 260 schools worldwide and monitors their study programs in terms of quality, service, teaching and accommodation.

What can you expect? Lessons usually take up around 20 hours a week, plus a few more for homework (don’t complain, you can do it in the sun). Most schools are located close to the centre, so you can explore your new city while getting some lingo practice in. We hear pubs are a good place to start. And as most of our language students are independent travellers aged between 18 and 29, our bet is you’ll have plenty of people to practice with.

Which course? INTENSIVE: Ideal for beginners or those who want to improve your language skills significantly in a short period of time. Opt for a combination course for a mixture of class and one-to-one lessons. STANDARD: For people who want to brush up on their existing language skills or for beginners who want to fit in lessons VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

around the rest of their holiday, our standard courses offer the best for both. Whichever course you choose, you’ll get a certificate at the end to confirm your enrolment.

Where can you stay? SELF-CATERED APARTMENTS/ BOARDING HOUSES: Keep your independence and be the master of your own schedule. SHARED APARTMENTS: When you live with other students, you’re guaranteed a practice partner. Iron out your questionable grammar before unleashing it on to the city! HOST FAMILY: Possibly the best option in terms of putting what you learn into practice. Talking to them every day is practice in itself, and it’ll give your confidence a real boost.

LEARN SPANISH IN EUROPE

LEARN SPANISH IN SOUTH AMERICA

PRICE FR $440

PRICE FR $360

DURATION 7+ DAYS

LOCATION BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

7+ DAYS FR$440

Located close to Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya, this bohemian language school offers standard courses teaching 20 lessons per week. Stay in a homestay (half board) or shared apartment (self-catering) with other students. In your spare time, hit Barcelona's huge food market, opt to row a boat in the gorgeous Ciutadella park and wander the Gothic Quarter.

MADRID

7+ DAYS FR$440

Located in the Salamanca district, this school has 11 modern classrooms, a media centre and a library. Standard (25 lessons) or intensive (30 lessons) are available and you will stay in a selfcatering shared apartment. Spain's capital is a culture vulture's dream, with a rich history and host of museums and galleries explore. You won't get bored, that's for sure.

LOCATION QUITO, ECUADOR

BUENOS AIRES

7+ DAYS FR$590

Learn Spanish in the heart of Argentina's lively capital, Buenos Aires, on this awesome adventure. As a student here, you'll be based in small classes of 6-10 students; ideal for more one-onone time with tutors. Bed down in a homestay (minimum age 16 years old) or in an apartment (minimum age 18 years old) and enjoy plenty of practice time in both. Opt to pick up the pace with a Spanish and Tango combination course. 7+ DAYS FR$360

CUZCO

Practise your Español in Peru’s oldest city, filled with colonial buildings and cobbled streets, and surrounded by Andean peaks. Choose from standard or private courses, or opt for a combination course for the best of both worlds! You'll also get plenty of time out throughout - a chance to hike to Machu Picchu, maybe?

LEARN ITALIAN IN EUROPE

LEARN FRENCH IN EUROPE

PRICE FR $528

PRICE FR $622

ROME

DURATION 7+ DAYS

LOCATION CUZCO, PERU

7+ DAYS FR$528

PARIS

DURATION 7+ DAYS

LOCATION CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

7+ DAYS FR$816

Situated in the Old Town, a few steps from Piazza Navona, this school is in a prime location to give students a real feel for the city's rome-antic side. Classrooms are bright and spacious, and the school boasts a lounge area and computer room with free Wi-Fi. Choose from standard (20 lessons) or intensive (30 lessons) courses, and stay in a homestay with breakfast included or a single room in a shared self-catering apartment.

Ah Paris, with its world-class galleries and iconic monuments. Centrally-located, this school is recognised by two French universities. Pick from holiday (20 lessons), standard (26 lessons) and intensive (38 lessons) plus a stay in a homestay or student residence (with breakfast). During time off, practice your skills exploring the City of Light and see if you can order a bottle of vin or two.

FLORENCE

NICE

7+ DAYS FR$575

One of the world's most beautiful cities, Florence gives an idyllic backdrop to all your language swotting. This relaxed language school is located by the Basilica of Santa Croce in the city centre, close to a bunch of hangouts loved by young Florentines. The school has ten classrooms and offers standard (20 lessons) and intensive (30 lessons) courses, with homestay (half board) or selfcatered shared apartment accommodation options available.

7+ DAYS FR$622

You'll find plenty of sunshine, swanky bars and tree-lined promenades in the so-called Pearl of the Riviera. The internationally renowned language school is located in a villa just 600 metres from the beach and close to Nice University. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants nearby. Choose from standard (20 lessons) or intensive (30 lessons) courses and stay in homestay (half board) or a shared self-catered apartment.

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

BARCELONA

DURATION 7+ DAYS

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

IREL AND WORK

Work for up to a year in the land of unspoiled scenery, cultural festivals and glorious Guinness (Barack Obama certified), and enjoy step-by-step assistance along the way. We'll help you sort out your Irish visa and travel insurance, as well as chucking in three nights accommodation in Dublin, Cork or Galway to settle you right in.

What is it? Friendly locals, epic scenery and famously good craic; it’s hard not to love Ireland. Now you can work and travel to the Emerald Isle for up to a year on our Work Ireland program! Whether you choose to work in a cafe in Galway, an office in Dublin, a retail store in Cork, or anywhere in between, you’ll have the flexibility to explore everything Ireland has to offer. You’ll get assistance in obtaining the 12 month Irish Working Holiday Authorisation, pre-departure advice from our staff, as well as pre-arranged arrival accommodation. You’ll also get support throughout your time in Ireland. Win.

Who can apply? You must hold a valid passport with a minimum of 15 months remaining on it. You also must be aged 18-30 years old.

WHAT YOU GET $360

IN THE USA

Visa assistance for your Irish Working Holiday Authorisation (12 months) Work in Ireland Essentials Handbook – includes everything you need to know about living, working and traveling in Ireland

HOW TO APPLY - STEP ONE Register with your Travel Expert - STEP TWO Initial phone interview with BUNAC within two working days - STEP THREE Work with BUNAC on application and arrange visa - STEP FOUR Organise flights and travel insurance with travel expert

Great flight deals through STA Comprehensive travel insurance from BUNAC for your working holiday IN IRELAND

3 nights accommodation in Dublin, Cork or Galway Arrival orientation including information on finding employment and accommodation, resume format, tax and employment laws, mobile phones, SIM card and more Access to exclusive listings of jobs and employment contacts Postal Service - mail forwarding Monthly social events, access to social media groups, meal deals and tour discounts Recruitment assistance

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

D N A L E R I & K U

s p i h s n Inter

Internships are often regarded as the best way to maximize your employability and to bridge the gap between studying and the working world. These awesome programs give you the chance to set yourself apart in today’s job market by gaining work experience to show employers you are driven, cultured and can work effectively in an overseas environment.

What is it?

Who can apply?

These programs give you the opportunity to boost your resume by interning for up to six months in London or three months in Dublin. Our partners at BUNAC will help you out every step of the way, making sure that the process is as smooth as possible.

All nationalities can apply, but you must be a student or have your starting date within 12 months of graduation. BUNAC will sponsor you on a Government-authorised exchange Tier 5 visa for UK placements. Ireland visa requirements may differ, please ask your Travel Expert for more details.

Why intern abroad? As well as having a great time on an internship abroad, you’ll also: Receive invaluable, hands-on experience and get started on a career path Network and build contacts abroad Gain independence Boost your resume for future employers Get immersed into a new culture

Which city is for me?

WHAT YOU GET $1,600

Professional resume advice to maximize your potential to employers Pre-arranged professional internship to suit your skills and interests Dedicated support staff throughout the internship Welcome orientation in London or Dublin Monthly social events 24/7 support, including an emergency hotline Assistance with sourcing insurance, flights and accommodation via BUNAC

London and Dublin are both leading cities for international digital, creative and financial businesses. But which one is right for you? LONDON History, red buses, royal palaces, fabulous theatre productions and a huge diversity of culture. You can’t argue with that. DUBLIN It’s true that Guinness tastes best here. Also taking centre stage are Trinity College, Dublin Castle, great innovative theatres and a wildly diverse dining scene. CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

Volunteering WITH US

We want to explore, not exploit. That’s why we ensure that our partners’ volunteer programs are built ethically and sustainably.

WE ARE

Responsible You will only work on projects where there’s a genuine need for help, and where there are clear economic, social or environmental goals.

Where your money goes

ADMIN COSTS

for the boring stuff that gets you there

5 2 : gni t e kr a M

MARKETING

for spreading the word

1 : s t s oC gninnuR t c ej or P PROJECT RUNNING COSTS

says it on the tin

STAFF RECRUITMENT

for finding leaders and 0 4 : tn em tiur c eR f f a t S permanent staff

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT

for0funding 1 : tn efurther m p ol research e v e D t c e j or P and resource

VOLUNTEER FOOD & ACCOMMODATION

VOLUNTEER TRAINING

oi t a d omm o c cA & d o oF rfor e emeals tnul oand V hosts. By paying our own way, we support the local community, not burden them

We’re not just in line with ABTA’s Volunteer Tourism Guidelines, we helped write them! Check out our own pioneering animal welfare policy and our Statement of Commitment online.

5 2 : s t s oC nim dA

7 1 : gnini ar T r e e tnul oV

for your on-the-ground support

We care about the environment. Wherever we go, we don't just pick up after ourselves, we'll try to leave the place in a better state than we found it. All the projects we work with are built sustainably and responsibly. VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Focus on one project Stay locally and immerse yourself in the community Travel more independently

DO YOU WANT TO VOLUNTEER?

ombine a volunteering C experience with a group tour Gain a local perspective on the road Meet and travel with like-minded people

FAQs Any more questions? DO I NEED ANY QUALIFICATIONS?

What

KIND OF WORK DO YOU WANT TO DO?

Some may require a basic level of Spanish or a PADI diving qualification, but most just ask you to bring a can-do attitude and a willingness to get stuck in. Any special requirements will be noted on the projects in this brochure. HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE?

Work in rehabilitation centres, sanctuaries and game reserves.

Help with workshops and Improve living standards on English lessons at schools grassroots not-for-profit and day centres. projects.

For most projects, at least 18. However, we do have some that cater to 15-17-year-olds. Parental consent is needed for anyone under 18. WHAT EXTRAS DO I NEED TO THINK ABOUT?

Get stuck in with habitat conservation, data collection and animal tracking.

Develop teamwork skills and boost confidence among kids and communities.

Work with children, communities and local wildlife, all on one project.

Visa, visa, visa! Please check these requirements fully before you book. Some projects may demand background checks, especially if you’re going to be working with children, so you’ll need to allow 4-6 weeks for that to be carried out. HOW CAN MY TRAVEL EXPERT HELP?

How long DO YOU WANT TO GO FOR?

Projects can run for anything between ONE WEEK and SIX MONTHS.

Now what? Get browsing! This brochure shows off some of our bestselling projects, and our trusty Travel Experts have even more up their sleeves. They’re all about finding the right project for you, so book your appointment online today and get ready for your trip!

Aside from helping you find your ideal volunteering opportunity, our Travel Experts can also help you with everything from booking flights to finding the right travel insurance. Looking for tips on where to go next? They could talk about it for days.

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

How

NEED TO KNOWS

MEXICO VOLUNTOUR PRICE FR $1,350

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE MEXICO CITY - EL TUITO

PROJECT START DATE: Mondays (Jun-Aug) PROJECT LOCATION: El Tuito, Mexico GETTING THERE: Mexico City Airport pick-

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

up, bus transfers from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende, San Miguel de Allende to Guadalajara, Guadalajara to El Tuito, El Tuito to Campamento Tortuguero ACCOMMODATION : 3 or 4* hotels depending on package (8 nts), tents at Campamento Tortuguero (6 nts) MEALS : 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners (+2 breakfasts for hostels only) NOTE : This is an independent voluntour; basic Spanish recommended M EXICO

Campanmento Tortuguero

See top Mexican sites and help sea turtles get the best start in life - if they don’t deserve it after that danger-ridden clamber to the sea, we don’t know who does. Take part in night patrols, release young turtles into the sea, monitor the on-site hatchery, help with nest clean-ups and lend a hand with local tree planting and recycling initiatives. Non-work activities include a market tour of Mexico City to get your teeth into the city’s juiciest flavours, and a visit to the Teotihuacán pyramids.

El Tuito

San Miguel de Allende

Guadalajara

Mexico City

THE PROJECT A programme aimed at protecting El Tuito’s olive ridley sea turtle hatchlings from poaching, and encouraging residents and volunteers to keep the coasts plastic free.

Tour Code: MEXVOL

HIGHLIGHTS

SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION

TEOTIHUACÁN PYRAMIDS

Work at a project designed to monitor the local population of endangered sea turtles on the beach at El Tuito.

Head to the Valle de México for a walk around the awesome pyramids, part of what was once Mesoamerica’s greatest city.

NEED TO KNOWS

WILDLIFE EXPEDITION IN COSTA RICA PRICE FR $1,985

DURATION 2-12 WEEKS

LOCATION TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK

PROJECT START DATE: Selected Saturdays PROJECT LOCATION: Tortuguero National

Park, Costa Rica GETTING THERE: Return transfers from/ to San José’s Juan Santa Maria International Airport included (arrive 6-10pm the day before) ACCOMMODATION : Shared dorms (14+ nts) MEALS : 3 meals a day NOTE : Background check required; medical form required STAY LONGER: Fr $664 per fortnight

THE PROJECT

Picture this: a Caribbean sunrise as you walk the beaches of Tortuguero National Park collecting data on endangered sea turtle hatchlings. Be part of a huge push to protect the species by researching numbers and nesting sites, and help position and monitor camera traps for signs of the elusive jaguar. In the evenings, walk the beaches again to collect data on nesting mother sea turtles. You’ll see them in their trance-like state as you note their appearance, size and health.

CO S TA

R ICA

Tour Code: GVICOS

HIGHLIGHTS

Tortuguero N.P. San José

Tortuguero National Park is the only place in the world where the threatened jaguar is known to prey on the nesting (and endangered) sea turtle. GVI works with local organisations like Coastal Jaguar Conservation and Sea Turtle Conservancy, as well as Costa Rica’s environmental ministry, to conduct research on this unique interaction. In doing this, they contribute to the UN’s objective of preventing the extinction of threatened species.

ASK ABOUT INTERNSHIP OPTIONS

HABITAT CONSERVATION

JUNGLE STAY

Contribute to long-term conservation efforts to encourage sustainable populations of sea turtles and jaguars.

Stay at a remote research base in the middle of the jungle and spot sloths, monkeys and butterflies in their natural habitat.

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

COSTA RICA VOLUNTOUR PRICE FR $1,181

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE SAN JOSÉ - SAN JOSÉ

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

NEED TO KNOWS PROJECT START DATE: Sundays PROJECT LOCATION: Montezuma GETTING THERE: Airport transfer from/to San José airport and Montezuma included ACCOMMODATION : Volunteer guesthouse (6 nts), hostel or 3*-4* hotel depending on package (6 nts) MEALS : 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners NOTE : This is an independent voluntour. You will only have a guide during specified activities; ziplining tour included

THE PROJECT Run by ASVO, this project doesn’t just provide a safe haven for turtle hatchlings. It also focuses on preserving the surrounding region and developing environmental education in cooperation with communities, schools and universities.

Get some iconic hotspots under your belt and give back to Mother Nature along the way. Spend five days volunteering at a sea turtle conservation project on Playa Montezuma, then venture further afield to sample Costa Rica’s huge biodiversity with your head in the clouds (literally - there are 12 climatic zones here). Days 1-7 San José / Playa Montezuma (conservation project) Save San José for later, with just a quick overnight stop before you make your way to the bohemian beach of Montezuma on Day 2, located on the Nicoya peninsula. This is where the work starts as you join a conservation project that protects endangered olive ridley, leatherback and hawksbill turtles, as well as the Pacific black subspecies. Depending on the season (mid Jul-Jan is turtle season, but support is needed all year round to continue conservation efforts), you’ll help with beach patrols, vivero monitoring and other maintenance jobs, with the working day lasting between six and ten hours. The majority of the work will take place at night, and daytime activities will depend on the project’s needs and the weather. Accommodation will be in bunk beds across three dorms. (6B, 5L, 6D)

Days 8-10 La Fortuna

CO S TA

Travel to La Fortuna at the base of the Arenal Volcano, known for intrepid outdoor activities, impressive birdlife as well as its population of howler monkeys. Live your best Costa Rican life with waterfall swims and tropical hot springs, and visit a viewpoint of the immense 1,670-metre Arenal Volcano as well as the handicraft-canny town of Sarchí - home to the world’s largest ox cart, as we found out. Opt to spend Day 10 canyoning or braving Arenal’s hanging bridges. (B, D)

R ICA

La Fortuna Monteverde

Days 11-15 Monteverde Cloud Forest / San José Head inland towards the misty mountain air of Monteverde’s cloud forest where a local guide will teach you about the conservation efforts to protect this vital ecosystem, home to a massive 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles. Enjoy a guided sugar cane and coffee tour, check out the birds of the Cloud Forest Reserve and opt to cut through the canopy on a ziplining tour. On Day 14, transfer back to San José, where the trip ends the following morning. Opt to stay a bit longer or just get in some lastminute shopping at the Central Market before you head to your next destination. (B)

San José Playa Montezuma

Tour Code: SJOVOL

HIGHLIGHTS

SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION

MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST

BALDI HOT SPRINGS

OPTIONAL ZIPLINING

If you haven’t guessed by now, we’re big on keeping sea turtles safe. Help the cause on this renowned project based on Playa Montezuma.

Pintsized Costa Rica is home to a massive 6% of the world’s biodiversity, and this cloud forest is a huge part of that precious ecosystem.

What better backdrop than the Arenal Volcano for when you’re stewing in the region’s fruitful homegrown waters? Sit back, relax, try not to fall asleep.

A fantastic add-on that will let you see the cloud forest of Monteverde from a whole new perspective. Great for a quick adrenalin fix.

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

NEED TO KNOWS

TEACHING CHILDREN IN PERU PRICE FR $1,720

DURATION 14+ DAYS

LOCATION CUZCO

PROJECT START DATE: Selected Saturdays PROJECT LOCATION: Cuzco, Peru GETTING THERE: Arrival airport transfer included on previous Friday, 8am-11pm

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

ACCOMMODATION : Shared same-sex dorm with shared bathroom MEALS : 3 meals a day NOTE : Background check required; medical form required STAY LONGER: Fr $465 per fortnight

THE PROJECT PER U

Put on your change-maker hat and join the others in the primary schools of Cuzco. By supporting English education in Peru, you’ll help the children capitalise on their country’s growing tourism clout by improving their access to a variety of jobs and industries. Your role will be to support them during English and math lessons, making sure everything is in place for them to run effectively. In turn, you’ll gain hands-on teaching experience and receive practical mentorship from staff on the ground.

Cuzco

Tour Code: GVIPER

HIGHLIGHTS

ASK ABOUT INTERNSHIP OPTIONS

WORK IN THE COMMUNITY

FREE TIME

Work at local primary schools to support English and math lessons, and develop your leadership skills in the process.

Based in colonial Cuzco, you’re perfectly poised to take on nearby Machu Picchu or Manu National Park in your own time.

NEED TO KNOWS

FIGHT FOOD WASTE IN LISBON PRICE FR $820

DURATION 1-12 WEEKS

GVI works with a range of educational organisations in and around Cuzco, contributing to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal of promoting quality pre-primary and primary education. This programme also helps to provide productive employment for educators in Cuzco, who are traditionally overworked with little or no quality resources.

LOCATION LISBON, PORTUGAL

PROJECT START DATE: Selected Sundays PROJECT LOCATION: Lisbon, Portugal GETTING THERE: Arrival airport transfer

included at any time ACCOMMODATION : Shared dorm at a sustainable city-centre hostel (6+ nts) MEALS : 3 meals a day STAY LONGER: Fr $259 per week

THE PROJECT

PO RTUGAL

Work to fight food waste in one of Europe’s most underrated, and one of our absolute favourite cities. Join a network of centres that work to recover food from local restaurants, supermarkets and cafés, and pitch in with packaging, cleaning, sorting and storage tasks before redistributing it among local families, elderly and homeless people in need. Shifts are held in centres across the city with typical working hours between 6.30-9.30pm, leaving you with plenty of time during the day to explore the neighbourhoods.

Tour Code: FFWLIS

HIGHLIGHTS

Lisbon

M O RO CCO

REDUCE FOOD WASTE

FREE TIME

Help vulnerable people and encourage sustainability as you redistribute food from restaurants, cafés and markets.

With most shifts taking place in the evening, you’ll have the whole day to explore the city at your own leisure.

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Every day, over 3,000 people in Portugal are fed by a social institution that collects food from local restaurants, cafés and supermarkets that would otherwise be thrown away. This project works with a network of centres across Lisbon to recruit volunteers to help in the collection of food, and its redistribution to vulnerable members of the community, including families, the homeless and the elderly.

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS.

MARINE CONSERVATION IN BARCELONA (MARBCN) Help in efforts to clean up the oceans, collecting fishing debris and plastics from around the Catalonian coast in an effort to protect the region’s thriving marine life. 2-12 weeks, Fr $1,279

GREAT WHITE SHARKS & MARINE CONSERVATION PRICE FR $691

DURATION 45-87 DAYS

LOCATION CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

NEED TO KNOWS PROJECT START DATE: Mondays PROJECT LOCATION: Gansbaai, near Cape Agulhas (165km from Cape Town) GETTING THERE: Return transfers from Cape Town included

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

ACCOMMODATION : Volunteer centre with kitchen, entertainment area, free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool, or multi-share room in cottage with shared bathroom and kitchenette (7+ nts) MEALS : Breakfasts and lunches STAY LONGER: Fr $566 per fortnight

THE PROJECT S O UTH

Get up close to great white sharks and work alongside the marine biologists of Marine Dynamics Academy. Based in Gansbaai, the world’s great white shark capital, you’ll volunteer aboard a leading cage diving or whale watching vessel, assisting the crew and spreading the message about marine conservation to tourists. You’ll also get to do a few cage dives yourself! Other tasks include collecting data on beach clean-ups and helping at the African Penguin Sanctuary.

Cape Town

AFR ICA

Gansbaai

The Marine Dynamics Academy utilise the rise of eco tourism to further their marine research and conservation goals. Marine biologists are on board each vessel collecting daily observational data used to monitor and protect the Dyer Island ecosystem and the marine life off the Cape coast.

ASK ABOUT INTERNSHIP OPTIONS

Tour Code: CPTGWS

HIGHLIGHTS

SHARK CAGE DIVING

MARINE CONSERVATION

Work aboard a shark cage diving or whale watching vessel in the world’s great white shark capital, and take the plunge yourself.

Assist with invaluable marine research initiatives, including shark egg case collection and the unique fishing line bin project.

NEED TO KNOWS

PANTHERA LION SANCTUARY PRICE FR $1,444

DURATION 17 DAYS

Widen your career path with high-level academic and field-based skills training modules. Open to undergraduates and recent grads of biology and natural sciences.

LOCATION STANFORD (WESTERN CAPE)

PROJECT START DATE: Saturdays (arrive Thursday for orientation) PROJECT LOCATION: Stanford (approx. 140km east of Cape Town) GETTING THERE: Return transfers from/to Cape Town included ACCOMMODATION : Multi-share dorm in Cape Town (2 nts), multi-share dorm or double room in volunteer house (14 nts) MEALS : 16 breakfasts, 16 lunches NOTE : Your flight must leave after 4pm on your final day; medium level of fitness required STAY LONGER: Fr $611 per week

THE PROJECT S O UTH

Yes, that is a find-your-own-meat birthday cake and yes, we’ve also fallen into some sort of heart-eyes-emoji-like coma. Go behind the scenes at a renowned big cat sanctuary where daily tasks include caring for lions, leopards, jaguars and tigers, preparing food, helping out with enrichment programs, cleaning and maintaining enclosures and educating visitors about the sanctuary’s pioneering conservation work. Breakfast and lunch are included, and dinner time is when the braai comes out (optional).

Cape Town

AFR ICA

Stanford

Panthera’s main focus is on animal welfare and enrichment. They are a blueprint for how nonprofit sanctuaries can become self-sufficient, and aim to change breeding facilities into sustainable ethical projects.

Tour Code: SAVPAN

HIGHLIGHTS

BIG CAT CONSERVATION

ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME

Go behind the scenes at one of South Africa’s most renowned big cat sanctuaries, and help care for the planet’s most majestic animals.

See the enrichment programme in action, which works to emulate the natural challenges cats would face in the wild.

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

THAI ELEPHANT CONSERVATION DURATION 1-2 WEEKS

LOCATION MAE TAENG DISTRICT (CHIANG MAI), THAILAND

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

PRICE FR $513

NEED TO KNOWS PROJECT START DATE : Mondays PROJECT LOCATION : Mae Taeng District (60km north of Chiang Mai) GETTING THERE : Make your own way to the project office in Chiang Mai by 9am on Day 1. Return project transfers included ACCOMMODATION : Multi-share volunteer

huts (6 nts) MEALS : 3 meals a day (vegetarian only) NOTE : Reasonable level of fitness required STAY LONGER : Fr $513 per week

THE PROJECT

We were one of the first travel companies to put an outright ban on all elephant riding activities, and this park highlights the importance of taking those steps. The founder, Lek Chailert, cares for elephants rescued from cruel tourism and logging practices, winning herself the enviable title of Hero of the Planet. Be like Lek. Set in a valley surrounded by forested mountains, this project offers a peaceful home for more than 30 neglected and previously abused elephants. Working at this highly acclaimed conservation project, you’ll play an important role in caring for endangered Asian elephants. Volunteering activities may include preparing the food and feeding these majestic grey giants and assisting in the day-to-day maintenance of the park. Learn about how they choose their friends and interact, as well as educating yourself on the endemic problems elephants face today in Thailand. You’ll spend so much time working up close with them, you’ll eventually see them starting to recognise you - remember, elephants don’t forget!

MYANMAR

Tour Code: BKKELE

We only work with projects that put animal welfare first and Elephant Nature Park does just that. This high profile park rescues elephants from bad living conditions and harmful logging practices. And they’re so good at what they do, they’ve even made it to the big screen! Check out ‘Love & Bananas: An Elephant Story.’

Mae Taeng

THE LOWDOWN

Chiang Mai

• Care for previously neglected elephants in world-renowned Elephant Nature Park • Each day typically starts at 8am and finishes at 3pm • Maintain the grounds, care for the organic garden and prepare the elephants’ food • Opportunity to assist with stray dogs at the on-site rescue project • Share simple, comfy accommodation with up to four other volunteers • Daily feeding interactions are not guaranteed

HIGHLIGHTS

THAIL AN D

Bangkok CA MBO D IA

ELEPHANT CONSERVATION

WORK IN THE COMMUNITY

DOG RESCUE

LOCAL STAFF

Prepare food, feed them (possibly not a daily occurrence), watch them form familial bonds and observe them in their natural habitat.

Live alongside locals, animals and beautiful nature on this inspiring project, where elephants live alongside the villagers.

Stay for an extended period of time and you might get to help out at the on-site dog rescue, feeding and walking dogs that are in for treatment.

Staff and volunteers on this project often come from surrounding villages, giving you a great opportunity to get to know the culture.

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

ELEPHANTS & BEACHES PRICE FR $1,194

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE BANGKOK - BANGKOK

VOLUNTEER, WORK & LEARN

NEED TO KNOWS PROJECT START DATE : Selected Fridays PROJECT LOCATION : Chiang Mai, Thailand GETTING THERE : Arrival airport transfer from Bangkok Airport included (arrive 6am-10pm) ACCOMMODATION : Basic, shared mixed

dorms (14+ nts) MEALS : 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

THE PROJECT This project offers a space of cohabitation for elephants and for mahouts (elephant carers), and an alternative environment for domesticated elephants from harmful activities such as elephant riding. Volunteers can help to feed, bathe and harvest crops for the elephants, and learn all about local life.

From grey trunks to swimming trunks, this voluntour stretches from the northern highlands to the southern beaches of Krabi. Start off in the chaos of Bangkok’s sprawling markets and golden temples, before heading on to an elephant village, where locals and elephants live side by side. Mae Wang

Days 1-3 Bangkok / Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai

Transfer to your accommodation in Bangkok and get settled in with a round of evening drinks in the lively Khao San Road area. The next day you’ll get stuck right into Thai culture with a tour of Bangkok’s sights, including the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun and the Giant Golden Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho). Navigate the canals of the city on a classic longtail boat ride before heading out for drinks again that evening. Next day, it’s on to Chiang Mai where you’ll transfer to your volunteer house. (2B, D)

THAIL AND

Days 4-7 Chiang Mai

Bangkok

Transfer to the elephant home village to help care for the resident friendly giants. Daytime activities include bathing and feeding the elephants, learning how to make elephant vitamin tablets, and helping to harvest crops for them. Days 5-6 will serve as a contrast, as you’ll be trekking through the leafy jungle and hills of Chiang Mai. A free day on Day 7 will allow you to explore the city before heading to Krabi the next day. (3B, 3L, 2D)

Days 8-13 Krabi Swap trekking for beaching, as you’re on to Krabi now by plane. After a good night’s sleep, you’ll be whisked off in a private taxi to the village of Bor Thor to explore local mangrove forests by kayak. Enter into caves and admire cave drawings dating back 3,000 years. The next three days are yours for the taking, so go out and explore hidden bays and beaches or try out rock climbing. Spend Day 13 cruising on a boat trip, snorkelling around local islands.

Krabi

Days 14-15 Bangkok Set your alarms early as you’re back to Bangkok today, arriving mid-late evening. Make the most of your final night in the City of Angels. Feel the sensory overload of the sizzling food markets and have one last cocktail to toast your trip. Day 15 sadly marks the last day of your travels, so it’s time to head home.

Tour Code: ELEBEA

HIGHLIGHTS

BANGKOK

CARE FOR ELEPHANTS

JUNGLE TREKKING

KRABI

A buzzing capital city that has plenty to offer for energetic backpackers. Crazy nightlife, opulent temples and sumptuous street food.

A traditional homestay experience close to Chiang Mai will see you feeding and bathing elephants, and helping to plant their food crops.

During two days of trekking through the jungle and hills of Chiang Mai you’ll admire rice terraces and pass hilltribe communities.

Enjoy a healthy dose of detox in Krabi. Navigate twisting mangroves by kayak, wander ancient caves and explore hidden beaches and bays.

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

ICELAND

REYKJAVÍK

SWEDEN

NORWAY

BERGEN

OSLO

NORTH SEA

STOCKHOLM

DENMARK

EDINBURGH

COPENHAGEN

BELFAST IRELAND

DUBLIN

AMSTERDAM BRUSSELS

CARDIFF

BERLIN

NETHERLANDS

UNITED KINGDOM

GERMANY

BRUGES

LONDON

PRAGUE BELGIUM LUXEMBOURG

CZECH REPUBLIC

MUNICH

PARIS

THE BLACK FOREST VIENNA

ZURICH FRANCE

AUSTRIA

LAUTERBRUNNEN

BERN SWITZERLAND

ATLANTIC OCEAN

SLOVENIA

MILAN

VENICE

ZAGREB ITALIAN RIVIERA

TU CROATIA

BIARRITZ BILBAO

ANDORRA

SPLIT NICE

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

ROME

ITALY

BARCELONA PORTUGAL

MADRID IBIZA

LISBON

SPAIN

SEVILLE

MALTA

WE LOVE >>>>> LONDON, BABY

Samuel Johnson once said; “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life”. We couldn’t agree more. See more of the UK on pages 29, 31, 43 & 62-63. FINLAND

FRENCH WINE

They love their grape juice in France, and so do we. The country is rammed with wine bars and scenic vineyards, so it'll be wobbly legs all round.

HELSINKI ST. PETERSBURG BALTIC SEA TALINN

See more of France on pages 30-31, 34-35, & 64.

ESTONIA

RIGA

TAPAS

LATVIA

Salty Serrano ham, succulent croquettes and garlicky prawns are just some dishes that Spain gets just perfecto.

MOSCOW

LITHUANIA

See more of Spain on pages 29, 48-49 & 67.

RUSSIA

VILNIUS BELARUS

WARSAW

GAME OF THRONES

Travelling through Croatia is like being an extra in the epic fantasy. Dubrovnik was actually the stage for King's Landing.

POLAND

KRAKÓW

See more of Croatia on pages 28 & 54-56.

UKRAINE SLOVAKIA HALLSTATT

BUDAPEST CARINTHIA

HUNGARIAN BATHS

MOLDOVA

HUNGARY ROMANIA

USCANY

Budapest's natural hot springs, spas and bathhouses will leave you cleaner and shinier than you've ever been in your life. Let those worries melt away and... ahhh.

BUCHAREST

BELGRADE SERBIA

See more of Hungary on pages 28, 41-42 & 53.

BLACK SEA

MONTENEGRO

SOFIA

ALBANIA

GEORGIA

BULGARIA

EUROPE TURKEY

MACEDONIA

ISTANBUL TIRANA GREECE

THE GREEK ISLANDS

ATHENS

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

UK & EUROPE

EUROPE

Music Festivals The UK and Europe are known for throwing some epic parties when the sun's out (actually, even when it's not), with some pretty impressive guestlists to match. Pack your dry shampoo and get ready to join the great unwashed and the world's best artists in the moshpits of our favourite festivals. Oh, and those wristbands? We know you're cool, but showing them off all year? Kinda gross. ZIGET FESTIVAL S BUDAPEST

5-11 Aug

Now into its 28th year, Sziget keeps on getting bigger and better, attracting 400,000 fans (half of whom are from outside Hungary) to an island in the middle of the Danube. 2019 headliners included Foo Fighters, Ed Sheeran, Florence + The Machine and Post Malone, but Sziget isn't just about the music. Szitizens will stumble across trippy art installations, fizzy wine bars, geeky game tents, psychedelic chill-out gardens and much more. No need to rush either, you'll be here for three whole days! Psych yourself up for some festival madness with a tour around Europe's most vibrant cities. Start in über-cool Berlin, then make your way through Prague's beer gardens and Vienna's cafés. By the time you rock up to Budapest, you'll be ready to throw yourself in and party Sziget-style. 10 DAYS

$1,820

COCCSF

ULTRA FESTIVAL SPLIT

9 - 13 Jul

Ultra is a huge three-day festival which takes place on Croatia’s Dalmatian coastline in Split. Showcasing some of the biggest names in EDM, house and techno, it is one of the key events in Europe’s dance music calendar. Notorious DJs hit the stage while hypnotic light shows, explosive firework displays and ground-shaking bass add to the spectacle. The likes of David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia, Disclosure and Afrojack have all made an appearance. EDMlovers from around the world come flocking in their thousands clad in their country’s flags. This five-day bundle includes a three-day ticket to Ultra as well as four nights stay in a comfortable, centrally located hostel and an orientation walk of Split. 5 DAYS

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

$769

28-30 Aug

ISLE OF WIGHT

11-14 Jun

Reading & Leeds used to be exclusively for rock lovers but its rep has since changed, now also hosting a Radio 1Xtra and Dance stage. Hot up-and-coming acts can also be discovered with BBC Introducing. Find a cinema tent, silent discos and a comedy stage for extra kicks after all the music.

The launch party of the UK's major festival calendar! Forget the weather forecast (it's June and it's England) and welcome the summer with a field full of rock, pop, comedy and cabaret. Re-launched in 2002, they've since seen artists such as The Rolling Stones, Jay-Z and Fleetwood Mac.

FESTIVAL TICKET & CAMPING

27-30 Aug

PRIMAVERA SOUND

4-6 Jun

$263

CREAMFIELDS

The grandaddy of electronic music. Insane visuals, explosive pyros and the biggest house and trance artists: this is one of the world's most renowned EDM festivals. Now in 18 countries, from Malta to Mexico, this legendary festival started in the UK. And 2020 promises to be the biggest yet.

$192

This pumping festival takes place every spring in the city of Barcelona and boasts the greatest alternative and underground beats worldwide. Alongside class music, expect art exhibitions, secret performances, record fairs and foodie wonders. FESTIVAL TICKET ONLY

$224

$84

FESTIVAL TICKET & CAMPING

TOMORROWLAND

EUROPE

READING & LEEDS

17-19 & 24-26 Jul

The biggest electronic music festival in the world, and it definitely looks the part! Even before the music starts, the stage designs and firework displays will blow your mind. It's like the best adult playground in the world. A setting fit for EDM, house and techno royalty. FESTIVAL TICKET, CAMPING, CAMPING EQUIPMENT & SHUTTLE TRANSFERS

$1,252

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH *Rates are based on 2019 prices and are subject to change

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

UK & EUROPE

EUROPE

Special Events OKTOBERFEST CAMPING (FROM MUNICH)

18 & 21 Sep

4 DAYS

ST PATRICK'S DAY DUBLIN

4 DAYS

$376

24 Dec

Tour the city by night (look out for the glittering Eiffel Tower), soak up Paris' festive atmosphere by day, cruise the River Seine and tuck into a delicious French feast. Includes hotel accommodation for three nights, four meals and return coach/ferry transfers from London. 4 DAYS

$505

COWPXM

CHRISTMAS IN AMSTERDAM

$605

OKTOBERFEST HOSTEL (FROM LONDON) 17, 22, 26 & 30 Sep 24 Dec

$585

COWAXM

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Stay central and hit the main festival to enjoy countless beers and Bavarian fare aplenty in one of the many beer halls. Includes three nights of multi-share hostel accommodation and breakfast. Optional day trips and bike tours also available. 4 DAYS

Start the festivities with a walking tour of the Red Light District. Tuck into a feast on Christmas Day, then enjoy a free day to explore the city and its nightlife. Includes three nights of hostel accommodation, four meals and return coach/ferry transfers from London. 4 DAYS

OKTOBERFEST HOSTEL (FROM MUNICH) 18, 21, 24, 27 & 30 Sep

Kick the party off in the Marienplatz on an orientation tour. Indulge in wurst, pretzels and beer steins, plus pay a sobering visit to Dachau Concentration Camp. Includes five or six nights of hostel accommodation, return coach/ferry from London and more. 6 OR 7 DAYS

$809

COCCOF

HO STEL

Christmas crackers CHRISTMAS IN PARIS

$279

15 Mar

Experience St. Patrick's on its home turf. Hit the pubs of Temple Bar, enjoy a walking tour and visit the Guinness Storehouse before soaking up the atmosphere in the Fair City. Includes a three-night hostel stay (mixed dorm) and a craic-ing Paddy's Day party.

C A M P I NG

Get your bearings on an orientation walk of Munich followed by two days of Oktoberfest fun, or enjoy an optional trip to Neuschwanstein Castle. Includes three nights in a twin-share tent with airbed (bring your own sleeping bag), breakfasts and T-shirt.

EUROPE

LA TOMATINA FOOD FIGHTS & DELIGHTS 24 Aug Thousands of travellers flock to the Valencian town of Buñol every year to chuck hundreds of over-ripe tomatoes at each other while trying to grab a leg of ham from the top of a greased pole. This trip includes a guided walk of the pretty Old Quarter, and full participation in this gigantic food fight. Expect chaos, laughter and A LOT of mess. FR $499 GAESVV

4 DAYS

Where to welcome the New Year EDINBURGH HOGMANAY

29 Dec

Welcome the New Year with plenty of drinks and ceilidh dancing at Edinburgh's legendary Hogmanay street party. Includes four nights at a local hostel, street party ticket, a day trip to the Highlands and the optional 'Loony Dook' on New Year's Day! 5 DAYS

NEW YEAR IN LONDON

$578

30 Dec

See all that London has to offer with a sightseeing tour and an optional visit to the city's spectacular winter market-comefairground, Winter Wonderland. Party London style on NYE with fireworks and good company, then swap resolutions over sore heads and coffee. 4 DAYS

NEW YEAR IN AMSTERDAM

30 Dec

Arrive into the Dutch capital and sign up for an optional canal cruise to meet new friends before hitting the nightlife. Soak up awesome vibes as you welcome in the New Year. Includes hostel accommodation for three nights, four meals and return coach/ferry from London. 4 DAYS

$660

COWANY

NEW YEAR IN PARIS

$595

COWLNY

30 Dec

Explore the City of Light and see in the New Year with an awesome party. Cruise the River Seine on New Year's Day and enjoy an indulgent dinner. Includes accommodation for three nights in a hotel, four meals and return coach/ferry transfers from London. 4 DAYS

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

$665

COWPNY

l i a r Eu

EUROPE

PASSES

In st a gr a m m a b l e E u r o p e

Off the rails in Europe! Trains in Europe are reliable and comfortable, and whizz you across borders with little fuss. Booking individual journeys can get pricey, so organising a Eurail Pass before you go will make your vacation heaps cheaper. Under 28 years old? Then it’s cheaper still! Decide if you want to explore all of Europe or discover just one country in depth. With a Global Pass, you can visit any combination of countries in any order. See our favourite passes opposite.

A trip around Europe wouldn’t be the same without a few envy-inducing Insta posts to make all your mates back home a bit jealous. This snap-happy sample itinerary takes you to some of the most aesthetically pleasing places and best selfie spots in the continent. STOP 1

Paris, France

Just a 2hr 15min Eurostar journey from London, picture-perfect Paris, with its lamp-lit bridges, iconic monuments and tres chic boutiques, is a photographer’s dream. Be sure to snap Rue Crémieux, the city’s most colourful street. STOP 2

Strasboug, France

No need to slap a filter on it, storybook Strasbourg delivers all the ‘grammable goods. Blending German and French influences, its narrow streets, half-timbered houses and Gothic cathedral look like they belong on a movie set. STOP 3

Konstanz, Germany

Make sure your phone is fully charged as there’s plenty to Insta here. This alleywoven town greets scenery-seekers with stunning views of Lake Constance. Work those angles in the historical Niederburg neighbourhood. STOP 4

Zurich, Switzerland

One of the world’s most liveable cities, Zurich seamlessly blends the slick world of banking with a cool, alternative vibe. Treat your camera to panoramic views of the Swiss Alps from the top of Mt. Rigi. STOP 5

Tirano, Italy

Sleepy Tirano is the terminus for one of Europe’s most scenic railway routes. Take your camera on a hike through vineyards and alpine landscapes. STOP 6

Milan, Italy

You’ll have sore thumbs from all the captioning, while your followers will have sore thumbs from all the liking. Strike a pose in the fashion capital’s stylish Quadrilatero della Moda neighbourhood or head to Navigli district and watch the sun set over the canal. STOP 7

Geneva, Switzerland

Your followers will be double-tapping the heart button when they see snaps of lakeside Geneva. For something a little different, take a picture of the Broken Chair, an unusual piece of artwork in the city centre.

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FINLAND NORWAY

SWEDEN ESTONIA

Did you know? DENMARK

LITHUANIA

The Interrail Greek Island pass lets you hop around 28 gorgeous Greek Islands from $85

IRELAND POLAND

NETHERLANDS

EUROPE

GREAT BRITAIN

GREECE

GERMANY BELGIUM LUXEMBOURG

E M ATC H T H TO CO LO U R S T H E P R IC E W G R ID B E L O

CZECH REPUBLIC SLOVAKIA AUSTRIA HUNGARY

SWITZERLAND

FRANCE

SLOVENIA

ROMANIA CROATIA

ITALY

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA*

SERBIA BULGARIA

MONTENEGRO* NORTH MACEDONIA

PORTUGAL

SPAIN GREECE TURKEY

RAIL PLANNER APP

One-Count ry P a s s e s

Glo b a l P a sse s

See the best one country has to offer

Explore 31 countries at your own pace

Youth Std. class

Youth 1st class

Adult Std. class

Global Pass options

Youth Std. class

Youth 1st class

Adult Std. class

LEVEL A

Fr $208

Fr $257

Fr $241

5 days travel within 15 days

Fr $266

Fr $354

LEVEL B

Fr $186

Fr $228

Fr $213

7 days travel within 1 month

Fr $315

Fr $421

Fr $418

LEVEL C

Fr $160

Fr $196

Fr $183

10 days travel within 2 months

Fr $378

Fr $504

LEVEL D

Fr $131

Fr $162

Fr $152

15 continuous days of travel

Fr $417

Fr $556

LEVEL E

Fr $101

Fr $122

Fr $115

15 days travel within 2 months

Fr $465

Fr $619

LEVEL F

Fr $63

Fr $78

Fr $73

22 continuous days of travel

Fr $489

Fr $650

GREEK ISLAND PASS

Fr $85

N/A

1 month continuous travel

Fr $632

Fr $842

One-Country Pass options

Please note: * Conditions Apply. Youth prices apply if under 28 years old. When travelling on selected trains (e.g. high-speed or overnight services, peak departures & scenic journeys), advance bookings and/or compulsory seat reservations may be necessary and do sometimes attract a nominal charge.

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Make seat reservations via the app with Eurostar, Thalys, TGV and Trenitalia. See train timetables for the whole of the Eurail network; PLUS, you can filter out trains that require reservations. And hey guys, this all works offline!

PASS OR TICKET? - INDIVIDUAL TICKETS Great if you are making one to two specific journeys. Booking these in advance can save you a few bucks.

- RAIL PASSES Usually work out cheaper than multiple tickets - especially if you're not planning your route in advance. They also allow travel on both peak and off-peak trains saving you even more money!

EUROPEAN HORIZON EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE LONDON OR AMSTERDAM - PARIS OR LONDON

EUROPE

PRICE FR $1,925

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Iconic Essentials AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

SPECIAL STAY

PRIVATE BOAT RIDE

AMSTERDAM CITY

Spend the night in the mountains in an exclusive Austrian gasthof.

Glide along Venice’s canals, past gilded buildings and floating islands.

A real charmer thanks to its canals, bikes and amazing art galleries.

Jul

Aug

Sep

01 05 08 14 17

06 10 15 22 26

02 11 14 19 21

09 16 18 20

Dec

Jun

08 13 17 25 29

Nov

May

03 07 08 14 28

Oct

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver, exclusive on-site teams at Special Stays

20 28 29 21 24 25 27 28

DAYS 1-2 London / Amsterdam / Rhine Valley Start in London and sail via Calais to the Dutch capital of Amsterdam, famous for its free spirit, bicycle-friendly streets and Red Light District. The coffee shops and red-hued windows are still part of the district’s attraction, but so are the trendy bars popping up in between. Explore canals, museums and boutiques the next day before following the Rhine River to the Rhine Valley, home to a fairytale castle and the world’s largest free-hanging cuckoo clock. (B, 2D)

DAYS 3-4 Rhine Valley / Munich / Austrian Tyrol Head south to Munich today, the proud host of Oktoberfest. The Bavarian capital is a pro at blending traditional culture with an enviable modern lifestyle. Walk the city’s Old Town and don’t miss Marienplatz’s Glockenspiel, a Gothic clock complete with 32 dancing figures and 43 chiming bells. Next up, Austria, and an exclusive Austrian gasthof (guesthouse) in the mountains where you’ll get the chance to take part in optional activities like paragliding. (2B, D)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Traditional beer hall visit in Munich •S pecial Stay in an Austrian gasthof • Private boat ride in Venice • Paris by Night sightseeing tour • French perfumery visit

DAYS 5-6 Austrian Tyrol / Venice / Swiss Alps Pass castles, vineyards and orchards as you travel through the Brenner Pass to Italy. What better way to see Venice than by private boat through the canals? The Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark’s Square are impressive architectural feats. With all that gold, exactly how are the islands still afloat? On Day 6, it’s back to the Alps. See Lake Como, then follow the trail of clanging cow bells to Interlaken, the adventure capital of Europe. (2B)

DAYS 7-8 Swiss Alps / Paris Re-charge your batteries (and your camera) in a stunning Alpine setting. For something a little different, opt to take the cog train to the top of a Swiss mountain and Europe’s highest railway station. In the morning, journey to Paris through the wine region of Burgundy. Tonight, see the Eiffel Tower and Champs Elysées all lit up on a Paris by Night tour. (2B, 2D)

U. K .

DAYS 9-10 Paris / London

London

Indulge in Paris’ sophisticated charms (and countless baguettes) as you discover world-class museums, celebrated cuisines and the fashionable Rue de Rivoli. You’ll also have time to visit a French perfumery before a last night with your group. On Day 10, take an included transfer to Charles de Gaulle Airport or back to London. (2B)

Tour Code: COCCEH

T H E N E T H E R L A N D S

Amsterdam

G E R M A N Y

Rhine Valley Valley of the Somme

Paris F R A N C E

Burgundy Region Swiss Alps

S W I T Z E R L A N D

Munich AUSTRIA Tyrol Brenner Pass Lake Como Venice

S PA I N

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Austrian gasthof (1 nt), hotels (3 nts), hostels (5 nts)

9 breakfasts, 5 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging, ferry, airport transfer

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

I TA LY

EUROPEAN HIGHLIGHTS EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $2,815

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE LONDON OR PARIS - AMSTERDAM OR LONDON

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Iconic Essentials AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

SPECIAL STAY

PARIS BY NIGHT

FLORENCE

Sample local wine before spending the night at a16th-century château in the Beaujolais region.

Discover why Paris is called the City of Light on this guided Paris By Night tour.

A Renaissance masterpiece in itself, this is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Dec

10 12 15 17

Nov

05 11 18 25 30

Oct

Sep

02 05 02 02 07 08 04 04 24 17 06 07 24 12 12 16 14 20 18 23 21 24 25 27 28 30 30

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver, local guides, exclusive on-site teams at Special Stays

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

DAYS 1-2 London / Paris From London, take a ferry across the Channel and start making your way to Paris past infamous WWI battlefields. On your first evening in the City of Light, see the most popular sights - including the Eiffel Tower and Champs Élysées - illuminated by night. The next day, make the most of the Parisian café culture, feign artistic knowledge at the Louvre and browse the boutiques of the Latin Quarter. (B, D)

DAYS 3-4 Beaujolais Wine Region / Riviera Heading south, stop at the UNESCO-listed Palace of Fontainebleau, once the residence of Napoleon and King Louis VII. Continue through Burgundy’s wine country, passing by Chablis and Beaujolais vineyards. Your home for the night will be a 16th-century château where you’ll counter the journey with a wine tasting session (because life is all about balance). The next day, travel to the glamorous Riviera. (2B, D)

• Paris by Night tour • Special Stay at 16th-century French château with wine tasting & yoga • Guided tour of Florence • Dachau Concentration Camp visit • Edam bike tour with visits to cheese farm & clog makers

DAYS 5-6 Monte Carlo / Pisa / Florence Your journey continues down the Cote d’Azur. Do as the locals do and browse markets and upscale boutiques or lunch at a chic brasserie. Tonight, mingle with the rich and famous at the Monte Carlo Casino. On Day 6, stop for a selfie at the Leaning Tower of Pisa on your way to Italy’s Renaissance masterpiece, Florence. (2B)

DAYS 7-10 Rome / Venice / Munich Very few cities are as easy on the eye as Firenze. Enjoy a guided walking tour, then head to Rome to see world-famous historic sites. Day 9 takes you to enchanting Venice where The Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Square are waiting to be explored. The following day, cross the Alps to Munich; home to the Glockenspiel, Marienplatz Square and Oktoberfest. (4B) U. K .

DAYS 11-14 Rhine Valley / Amsterdam / London After a sobering visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, travel to the picturesque Rhine Valley where a lesson in crafting beer steins takes up your second day in Germany. Next up is the Netherlands and the canallined streets of Amsterdam. Spend Day 12 cycling around Edam’s windmill-scattered countryside, stopping at a cheese farm and clog maker’s house. Take an included transfer back to London on Day 14. (4B, 2D)

Tour Code: COCCPE

T H E N E T H E R L A N D S

Edam

London

Amsterdam G E R M A N Y

Rhine Valley Fontainebleau

Paris

Dachau Munich

Beaujolais Region Château de Cruix S PA I N

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

French château (1 nt), hotels (5 nts), hostel (7 nts)

13 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging, ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

F R A N C E

Venice I TA LY

Pisa

Riviera Monaco

Florence

Rome/ Vatican City

EASTERN ROCKER PRICE FR $1,215

TRIP STYLE: Iconic Essentials AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE LONDON OR AMSTERDAM - VIENNA

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Berlin sightseeing tour, Prague walking tour, see Sedluc Ossuary (the Bone Church) in Kutna Hora

EUROPE

DEPARTS: Fri & selected Sun (Jan-Feb, MayJul, Oct, Jan21), selected Fri (Mar-Apr, AugSep, Feb21-Mar21), various dates (Dec)

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAY 1 London / Amsterdam

DAYS 5-6 Berlin / Dresden / Prague

Cross the Channel from the White Cliffs of Dover to Belgium and up to the colourful city of Amsterdam. Weave through gable houses and canal-lined streets by night after dinner with your group. (D)

As you venture south towards Prague, stop off to admire the rebuilt Baroque architecture of Dresden. Get acquainted with Prague’s medieval streets, daunting Gothic architecture and tasty beer. (2B)

DAYS 2-4 Amsterdam / Berlin

DAYS 7-8 Prague / Vienna

With another free day in Amsterdam, don’t miss the arty neighbourhood of Jordaan or the quirky shopping streets of Haarlemmerstraat. On Day 3, motor down the autobahn to Berlin. After your night out, learn about Germany’s darker past and be inspired by Berlin’s creative scene, not missing the graffiticovered Berlin Wall. You’ll also see Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag. (3B, D)

Travel through the Czech countryside to Austria and its capital, Vienna. See the magnificent Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and drive along the historic Ring Road. Your trip concludes on Day 8, but if you’re not ready to go home, why not continue to Rome on the nine-day Eastern Trail trip? Please ask your Travel Expert for more details. (2B)

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hostels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging, ferry

WESTERN ROCKER

Berlin

Amsterdam

London

Dresden

G E R M A N Y

Prague

Tour Code: COCCLV/COWWLV

ACCOMMODATION

PRICE FR $1,185

Edam U. K

Kutná Hora

Vienna

TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE ROME - LONDON

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Leather craft demo, Paris by Night tour, Champagne & escargot tasting, visits to Leaning Tower of Pisa, a watch shop, chocolate shop & French perfumery DEPARTS: Selected Mon, Wed & Sat (MarDec), Selected Sun, Tue & Sat (Jan21-Mar21)

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAYS 1-3 Rome / Florence

DAYS 6-8 Paris / London

Ready, steady, Rome! Your first day in Italy will be a whirl of pasta, Vespas and ancient monuments. If time allows, opt to see the Colosseum before meeting the rest of your group tonight. From one historic heavyweight to another, Florence and all its Renaissance masterpieces are up next. Learn why the city is famous for its leather craft with a how-to demonstration. (2B, 2D)

Today, cross into France and travel through the pretty wine-producing region of Burgundy to the City of Light. Croissant in one hand, cappuccino in the other - this should be your signature look for the next few days as you wander Paris’ beautiful lamp-lit streets. Your Trip Manager will fill you in on the city’s secrets then, to celebrate your first night here, pop the champagne and experiment with escargot. On Day 7, visit a traditional French perfumery and later on, opt for a Parisian dinner followed by a cabaret show. Your trip ends on the morning of Day 8. Say au revoir to your travelling companions or, alternatively, take a complimentary transfer back to central London. (3B, D)

DAYS 4-5 Swiss Alps Once you’ve had your fill of world-class art and tasty Tuscan cuisine, head for the hills (well, mountains actually). Day 4 takes you to the Swiss Alps via the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Spend two days drinking in fresh alpine air, hot chocolate and views of snow-capped peaks. You’ll also get to visit a watch shop. (2B, 2D)

U. K

London Paris

Tour Code: COCCRT/COWWRT F R A N C E

Swiss Alps I TA LY

Florence

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share same-sex rooms in Hotels/Hostels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 5 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Rome

WESTERN QUEST PRICE FR $1,155

TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE LONDON - BARCELONA

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Expert Trip Manager, driver,

local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 53, INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Paris by Night tour, walking tour of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, see Sagrada Familia DEPARTS: Selected Tuesdays, Thursdays and

Saturdays

EUROPE

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAYS 1-2 London / Paris Think just over a week isn’t enough time to get a good look at Europe? This tour will prove you wrong! Ferry across the English Channel to France, arriving in time for an exclusive Paris by Night tour. Day 2, enjoy a spot of window shopping, pore over masterpieces at the Louvre and admire the Eiffel Tower while juggling coffee and crêpes. That night, opt for a traditional dinner and Cabaret show with a glass of champers. C’est parfait. (B)

DAYS 3-5 Bordeaux / San Sebastian Rumour has it that Bordeaux has been producing wine for over 2000 years. That’s a long time, which means they must know what they’re doing. But it’s not just the wine that’s lured us here - it’s a pretty place to boot! Next day, head to Spain via the fishing village of

Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Take a refreshing dip before moving on to the tapas-loving town of San Sebastian. Here, you can Basque in the sun on the beach and get stuck into the pintxos scene. Spend Day 6 exploring Parte Vieja, Playa de la Concha and Centro Romántico. (3B, 2D) U. K

DAYS 6-8 Barcelona

London

After a brief stop in Zaragoza, famous for its multidomed Basílica del Pilar, continue on to the intoxicating city of Barcelona. Expect astonishing Gaudí architecture, delicious tapas restaurants, fab nightlife and, of course, the beach. Day 7, take a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter and marvel at Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia. Day 8 marks your last day, so bid your farewells! (3B, D)

Paris

F R A N C E

Tour Code: COCCWQM/COWWWQ

Bordeaux San Sebastian

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels/Hostels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 3 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging

QUEST TO ROME PRICE FR $2,225

Barcelona

S PA I N

TRIP STYLE: Iconic Essentials AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 16 DAYS

ROUTE LONDON OR PARIS - ROME

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager and driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Paris by Night tour, walking tour of Florence & Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, Cinque Terre train ride, boat trip to Capri (summer only) DEPARTS: 2-4 departures per month (JanApr), 6-9 departures per month (May-Aug), 3-5 departures per month (Sep-Dec), 2-3 departures per month (Jan21-Mar21)

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAYS 1-5 London / Paris / Bordeaux / San Sebastián

DAYS 9-11 Nice / Cinque Terre / Florence

Meet your group in London or Paris and start your trip with Champagne, escargot and a Paris by Night sightseeing tour. Continue the wine theme on Day 3 in picturesque Bordeaux before heading to sunny San Sebastián, famed for its food scene and one of Europe’s best inner-city beaches, Playa de la Concha. (4B, 2D)

DAYS 6-8 Barcelona / Nice Set off in search of spicy Barcelona on Day 6. With it’s Gaudí-influenced skyline and raucous nightlife, this is one of our favourite European spots. It’s back over the French border on Day 8 as you travel through rustic Provence, along the Côte d’Azur to the French Riviera. (3B, D)

Time to whip out your fanciest flip flops as you saunter around Nice’s very nice boutiques and try your luck at the Monte Carlo Casino. On Day 10, cross into Italy and spend the night at a cliffside town in the Cinque Terre before heading south to art-filled Florence via the Leaning Tower of Pisa. (3B)

DAYS 12-16 Sorrento / Rome Day 12 takes you to the Amalfi Coast and the small resort town of Sorrento. See Capri (summer only), stroll through pretty piazzas and visit nearby Pompeii en route to Rome. Two nights in the Eternal City will see you indulging on gelato and exploring ancient sites. (5B, D)

U N I T ED KI N GDOM

London Paris F RAN CE

Cinque Bordeaux Terre Florence Nice

Tour Code: COCCQRM/COWWQR

San Sebastián SPAI N

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hotels and hostels (15 nts)

15 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging, ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Rome

Barcelona

Sorrento I TALY

MEDITERRANEAN QUEST PRICE FR $1,265

TRIP STYLE: Iconic Essentials AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE BARCELONA - ROME

DURATION 9 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver, GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visit to Monterosso town, train ride along the Cinque Terre, guided walking tour of Florence, boat trip to Capri (summer only)

EUROPE

DEPARTS: Thursdays (year-round), other selected dates throughout the year

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAYS 1-2 Barcelona / Nice

DAYS 4-6 Florence / Sorrento

Home of Gaudí, sangria and year-round sunshine, Barcelona is where your journey begins. Meet your new travel buds on Day 1 then hit the road. Drive through Provence and follow the rugged coastline of the Côte d’Azur until you reach the beachfront city of Nice. Browse high-end boutiques and roll the dice at the Monte Carlo Casino. (B, D)

Day 4 takes you to Renaissance Florence with a sneaky side trip to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Discover the sights of the Tuscan capital on a guided tour and get the lowdown on the city’s leather craft heritage with a demo. A small resort with a big reputation, Sorrento is a seaside stunner and the next stop. Cruise over to celeb-studded Capri on Day 6 (summer only). (3B)

DAY 3 Cinque Terre

DAYS 7-9 Rome

Today, swap the glamour of the French Riviera for the rustic charm of the Cinque Terre, a collection of pastel-painted fishing villages clinging to the cliffs. Armed with your rail pass, take the train through a series of coastal tunnels and absorb the rugged beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B)

Pass the ruins of Pompeii en route to Rome. The next two nights are filled with ancient wonders and pretty piazzas with foodie interludes of pizza, pasta and gelato. Depart at any time on Day 9. (3B, D)

F R A N C E

I TA LY

Cinque Terre Florence Nice

Tour Code: COCCMQM/CCWWMQ Rome Barcelona

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hotels or hostels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging

EUROPEAN MAGIC PRICE FR $1,569

Sorrento

TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE LONDON OR AMSTERDAM - PARIS OR LONDON

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Locally guided bike tour of Munich (summer departures only), Private motorboat to the historic islands of Venice, ]’exclusive Paris by Night tour DEPARTS: Sat (Apr-Sep), selected Sun, Fri & Tue (Oct-Dec), selected Fri (Jan-Mar31) MY OWN ROOM: Fr $455

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAYS 1-2 London / Amsterdam / Frankfurt

DAYS 6-9 Lucerne / Paris / London

Join the team in London or, if you’re already on the other side of the Channel, head straight to Amsterdam. See the city’s canals and gable houses illuminated on an optional canal cruise, then cross into Germany the next day. (B, D)

Today, catch a glimpse of Lake Como as you head over the border into Switzerland. Continue on to lakeside Lucerne, famous for its wooden bridges, cobbled lanes and chocolate. Once you’ve eaten ALL the chocolate, pass by the vineyards of Burgundy towards the so-called City of Light. Stick to that brief with an illuminated Paris by Night tour, and see the French capital’s most impressive buildings and landmarks lit up after dark. With an included visit to Montmartre on Day 8, the rest of the day is free for you to see the city on your own terms. On Day 9, take a morning transfer to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport or a complimentary transfer back to London. (4B, D)

DAYS 3-5 Munich / Venice From Frankfurt, head to Munich. The city is known as the home of Oktoberfest, so it would be a crime not to slurp a local brew at a traditional Bavarian beer hall. On Day 4, wind through the Bavarian Alps to Italy, stopping in Innsbruck to see the famous Golden Roof. The next two nights are spent in Venice. There’s a good reason it’s nicknamed the Floating City - it’s basically an island held up by wooden sticks, which is impressive given the amount of palaces and churches heaped on top! (3B)

Tour Code: COBBHH/COWWHH

U. K

London

Amsterdam G E R M A N Y

Frankfurt

Paris

Munich Lucerne

Innsbruck

F R A N C E

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin or triple-share hotels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging, ferry

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

I TA LY

Venice

EUROPEAN DISCOVERY EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 12 DAYS

PRICE FR $1,995

ROUTE LONDON OR AMSTERDAM - PARIS OR LONDON

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

MUNICH

VENICE

FLORENCE

Clink your steins and say “Prost!” at one of the city’s traditional Bavarian beer halls.

Take a traditional Motoscafo across the iconic lagoon to the island of Venice.

This enchanting Italian city welcomes you with gourmet Tuscan cuisine and world-class art.

DAYS 1-3 London / Amsterdam / Rhine Valley / Munich Leave the White Cliffs of Dover for the illuminated canals of Amsterdam where you can enjoy an optional cruise before heading to the infamous Red Light District. Travel to Amsterdam’s museum quarter then hop on the bus along the Rhine and stop for an optional wine tasting. Day 3, you’re off to Munich, the Bavarian capital and home to the world-famous Oktoberfest. Opt for a bike tour and sample some traditional Bavarian food. (2B, 2D)

DAYS 4-5 Austrian Tyrol / Venice Drive through alpine scenery to an adventure resort in the Austrian Tyrol, home to meadows and grazing pastures in the summer and ski resorts in the winter. Overnight here, then the mountainous and ridiculously photogenic Innsbruck awaits a visit before crossing the Brenner Pass into Italy. The first stop in this boot-shaped country is Venice, where you’ll venture through cobblestone streets and follow the charming canal network over 400 bridges! (2B, D)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver

25 08 06 03 01 05 02 07 09 04 02 01 01 15 08 05 03 07 03 14 16 07 04 08 08 22 13 10 06 12 09 19 23 10 11 15 15 29 20 12 08 19 16 26 30 12 18 22 27 15 10 26 18 14 25 29 17 13 28 21 16 19 15 23 18 22 22 25 26 24 29 28 28 26 31 30 30 29

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $550

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Private boat tour through Venice • Walking tour of Venice • Gelato in Rome • Special access Rome sightseeing tour • Leather craft demonstration in Florence • French perfumery visit

DAYS 6-7 Rome Wind through the Apennine Mountains to the Italian capital of Rome, home to iconic sights such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and St. Peter’s Basilica, and take an optional locally guided tour of the Vatican Museum. Lose yourself in the city’s streets surrounded by monuments, fountains and pizzerias aplenty. (2B)

DAYS 8-9 Florence / Lucerne Today, travel to the Renaissance city of Florence, spy the scene-stealing Duomo and learn about Florence’s cultural beginnings from a local guide. You can also indulge in an authentic feast in the heart of the Tuscan hills. On Day 9, approach the Swiss city of Lucerne, which boasts a lakeside setting perfect for an optional cruise (in summer). (2B)

T H E N E T H E R L A N D S U. K .

DAYS 10-12 Paris / London Drive through the Burgundy wine region to Paris. Snap the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe before unwinding in a bohemian café in the Marais or Bastille district. Day 11, get busy exploring the city’s patisseries and museums. On your last night on tour, why not treat yourself to an optional cabaret, complete with can-can girls, dinner and Champagne? Transfer to Charles de Gaulle Airport or take a complimentary transfer to London on Day 12. (3B, D)

Tour Code: COBBHD/COWWHW

Amsterdam

London

G E R M A NY

Rhine Valley Munich

Paris F R A N C E

C ZEC H R E P.

Lucerne

S W I T Z E R L A N D

Tyrol / Innsbruck Venice

S PA I N

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin or triple-share hotels (11 nts)

11 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging, ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Florence Rome

ITALY

EUROPEAN TRAIL: CAPITALS & CAFÉS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 26 DAYS

ROUTE LONDON - LONDON

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

PRICE FR $4,899

LES APP

, LY

EUROPE

T H E N ET HER L A ND S G E R MA N Y U. K.

Berlin

Amsterdam

London Bruges

PO L AND

BE LG I U M

Prague

Kraków

CZ ECH R E PU B L IC

Paris Vienna F RA N C E AU S T R I A

Interlaken S W IT ZERL A N D

Ljubljana Venice

Milan

Budapest HUNGARY

S LOVEN IA

Florence

ITAL Y

I TA LY

VENICE,

Rome

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 10 NOTE: If you’re short on time, this tour can also be done in smaller modules

12 17 07 05 09 06 04 26 31 21 12 23 20 28 26 30

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

• Picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower • Pilsner beer hall visit in Prague • Bike tour around Berlin • Orientation walks in Interlaken, Venice, Vienna, Budapest, Kraków, Prague, Berlin and Bruges • G for Good Nem Adom Fel Café, Budapest • G for Good Migrantour in Rome

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Rome to London: Cobblestones & Cuisine (20 days, Rome - London) (GAEIRS) Fr $3,599 Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas (10 days, Barcelona - Lisbon) (GAESBM) Fr $1,349 Rome to Lisbon: Coasts & Countryside (16 days, Rome - Lisbon) (GAEIRM) Fr $2,499

HIGHLIGHTS

ROME

BRUGES

We could go straight in for a ‘when in Rome’ cliché (we probably have already), but let’s talk about how historic and architecturally grand this city is instead.

Welcome to Belgium’s most-loved town, complete with romantic laneways and great examples of Flemish art.

EUROPE

PARIS Très magnifique! Not only a city of inescapable romance, Paris is a world capital relishing in artistic, cultural and culinary delights.

This whistlestop adventure doesn’t slow for stragglers. This is an epic trip that ticks off the busy streets of London and Paris, the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps, takes a quick peek behind the Iron Curtain and parties hard in Amsterdam. DAYS 1-2 London / Paris

DAYS 14-16 Budapest

Touch down in London town and join your group on the Eurostar to Paris. The next day, feast on an included picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower. Take to the River Seine by boat, browse the romantic lanes of Montmartre and visit the Dalí museum. (L)

Start your Budapest adventure with a walk through the culture-rich capital, followed by free time to see the beautiful Parliament building or the famous thermal baths. The next day, opt to head to Memento Park, the Museum of Terror or the Buda Castle. Day 16, visit a G for Good café then take the overnight train to Kraków.

DAYS 3-5 Interlaken Set your sights on the Swiss adventure playground of Interlaken. This traditional resort town is located in the mountainous Bernese Oberland region, nestled between the emerald green waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Explore a glacier and go swimming in a lake, or try hang gliding, white water rafting or rock climbing.

DAYS 6-7 Rome

Welcome to the once-royal capital of Kraków. Take in the Gothic and Renaissance architecture on a city walk and, the next day, make use of some free time. Visit sobering Auschwitz, travel to the old salt mines or stay in the city to explore the Jewish Quarter. The following day, take a train to Prague.

DAYS 18-19 Prague

Travel to Rome via Milan and take your time to get to know the historic city with an orientation walk. Check out the famous sights of the Roman Empire, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum. The Vatican City is especially worth a visit (the Sistine Chapel in particular), and make time for pizza. Always pizza.

Enjoy an orientation walk around town and soak up the buoyant atmosphere of an authentic beer hall. This is one of Europe’s cheapest cities to satisfy your beer cravings in, so make the most of it. The next day, visit St. Vitus’ Cathedral, wander the cobblestone streets, and explore the beautiful alleys and courtyards.

DAYS 8-9 Florence

DAYS 20-24 Berlin / Amsterdam

End your stay in Rome with a G for Good migrantled walking tour of the city then continue on to Renaissance beauty, Florence. Make your way through cobbled streets to see the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. Stroll to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views over Florence, and get an iced coffee along the River Arno. Opt to visit UNESCOlisted Siena on a day trip.

DAYS 10-11 Venice / Ljubljana A scenic train ride takes you to the famous Floating City of Venice. Wind your way through its labyrinth of canals or hop on a gondola ride under ancient bridges. Then, set off for Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana. Opt to visit the famed Lake Bled, or sip a cold beer in the outdoor cafés lining the Ljubljana River. MILAN, ITALY

DAYS 17 Kraków

DAYS 12-13 Vienna Board the train again, this time to the capital of Austria, Vienna. Check out grand buildings and palaces, wander the gardens and museums and marvel at the priceless jewels housed in the Kaiserliche Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasury). Hop from boutique to boutique if you fancy a touch of shopping and opt to see the Lipizzaner ‘dancing’ horses.

This morning, catch a train to Germany and tick some sights off, including the Berlin Wall, Alexanderplatz, the Jewish Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and the Reichstag. Day 22, pedal around on an included bike tour of the city and join the raving frenzy by night. Day 23, it’s off to Amsterdam! Opt for a hop-on hop-off canal boat tour or explore the city like a local (by bike). Pop into the famous cafés and sample some local hops at a local brewery. Don’t miss Anne Frank’s House and the city’s famous Red Light District.

DAYS 25-26 Bruges / London Travel to the cobbled lanes and dreamy canals of the Belgian city of Bruges. Choose to visit a local brewery and treat yourself to an all-but-guaranteed fantastic pint. Take the bus along the last leg towards London’s world-famous Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey before the tour ends on Day 26.

Tour Code: GAEEET

MIGRANTOUR ROME THIS PROJECT SUPPORTS: MIGRANTS & REFUGEES This projects provides economic opportunity for migrants and refugees arriving in Rome. In turn, they give visitors a real insight into Roman city life.

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostels or hotels (24 nts), sleeper train (1 nts)

1 lunch

Train, public bus, metro, ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

LONDON TO ROME: PICNICS & PIZZA PRICE FR $1,549

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE LONDON - ROME

DURATION 7 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 10 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower, orientation walk in Interlaken & Rome

LES APP

06 04 13 20 27

Dec

Sep

02 09 23 30

Nov

Aug

05 12 19 26

Oct

Jul

May

Jun

, LY

12 03 07 26 10 14 17 21 24 28 31

Apr

Mar

Feb

E PA SE

ILI

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-2 London / Paris After meeting up in London, carry on to Paris aboard the Eurostar. Wind your way through patisseries and cafés, then tuck into a picnic lunch with views of the Eiffel Tower. Spend the rest of the day in true Parisian style and opt for a sightseeing cruise along the Seine or browse the artisan lanes of Montmartre. After a bit of art? Check out the famous Louvre Museum or the must-see Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former train station and displaying some of the world’s most revered Impressionist art. (L)

DAYS 3-5 Interlaken Head into Switzerland to enjoy the alpine adventure playground of Interlaken. If you’ve ever wanted to try paragliding, white water rafting, glacier exploring or

rock climbing, this is the place to do it. The views are phenomenal, and the twin valleys of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen are totally Instagram worthy. You’ll have another guided walk on Day 5, so take time out at a nearby lake, perfectly clear and as serene as they come.

DAYS 6-7 Rome Travel to Rome via Milan and take a guided stroll through the Eternal City. For the rest of your afternoon, check out sights like the Colosseum and Roman Forum, then head to the Art Nouveau district for a little architecture appreciation. Alternatively, take this time to indulge in Italian cuisine paired with an iced Aperol Spritz or wine. The trip ends on Day 7.

U. K

London

Paris

Tour Code: GAEELR

F R A N C E

Interlaken S W I T Z E R L A N D

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostel/hotel (5 nts), simple hotel (1 nt)

1 lunch

Train, public bus, metro

EUROPE BY RAIL WITH THE GLACIER EXPRESS PRICE FR $2,999

DURATION 12 DAYS

ROUTE PARIS - BUDAPEST

Milan

Rome

I TA LY

TRIP STYLE: Rail AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Orientation walks in Budapest, Lausanne, Paris, Vienna, Salzburg, The Glacier Express train, TGV train, G for Good Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar DEPARTS: Selected Wednesdays (May-Oct)

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $919 - WE LOVE -

ILI

EUROPE

ELIGIB

GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Paris / Lausanne

DAYS 7-9 Salzburg

Where better to start your Europe rail journey than in romantic Paris? Meet on Day 1 and spend the following day at leisure, with time to visit some of the city’s museums, patisseries, cafés and sidewalk bars. On Day 3, take a morning TGV to Lausanne, Switzerland and enjoy a free afternoon in town. (2B)

Austria’s musical capital is brimming with history and character. While you’re here, opt to visit the nearby salt mines or follow in Fraulein Maria’s footsteps on a ‘Sound of Music’ tour. If you ever wanted to run up hills singing ‘The Hills are Alive,’ the time is now. (2B)

DAYS 4-7 Zermatt / Chur / Munich Head deeper into the Swiss countryside with a train journey to the alpine village of Zermatt and opt to hike the nearby mountains. On Day 5, board the famous Glacier Express for a picturesque ride through the Alps towards Chur. Overnight here before making your way to Munich the next day. Explore the home of Oktoberfest and kick back with a German beer. (4B)

DAYS 10-12 Vienna / Budapest Travel to Vienna and opt to visit the opera house, join a city tour or visit the museums. Tonight, stay at one of G for Good’s hotels (Magdas Hotel) that provides migrants with employment opportunities. On Day 11, reach Budapest for a G for Good café visit and a taste of the ruin bars before the end of the trip on Day 12. (3B)

Tour Code: GAEFBR

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels/pensions (11 nts)

11 breakfasts

Train, subway

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

G E R M A N Y

Paris Vienna

Munich F R A N C E

Chur

Lausanne Zermatt

Salzburg

Budapest

ENGLAND & SCOTLAND EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $1,560

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE LONDON - GLASGOW

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager & Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

Aug

03 03 15 05 03 06 07 22 12 10 10 29 19 13 26 20 24 27

Dec

Jul 02 09 13 16 23 27 30

Nov

Jun 01 04 11 15 18 22 25 29

Oct

May 04 07 14 18 21 28

Sep

Apr

26 02 09 16 23 31

Mar

Feb

Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2020:

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $425

LAKE DISTRICT

LOCH NESS

YORK

The Lake District is UNESCO-listed and the UK’s most popular National Park with unique hill-farming.

Scientist are trying their best to kill the dream, but we’re not having it! Take to the lake on a boat cruise.

Step back in time in one of England’s most picturesque cities with a guided tour of York.

DAYS 1-2 London / Liverpool / York You’ve got the best of London’s iconic sights to see on Day 1, followed by a trip to Liverpool for a taste of Beatlemania. Tick off sights including the Cavern Club, which gave The Beatles their first stage, and the Fab Four’s childhood homes. You’ll also find galleries and museums here to rival those in London, as well as Albert Dock, part of Liverpool’s UNESCO portfolio. Continue through the rolling hills to York, where delicious regional specialities are on offer for dinner and the brave can get their spooks on with an optional ghost tour of the city. (B, 2D)

DAYS 3-5 York / Lake District / Edinburgh It’s off to one of the country’s most picturesque areas, the Lake District. Here, you’ll visit Bowness on the shores of Lake Windermere for the chance to opt in for some good ol’ country activities such as a high ropes course and archery (summer only). On Day 4, stop at Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans at the outer limit of their Empire, before crossing into Scotland at Gretna Green. See Edinburgh’s historic sights by coach, and spend the following day exploring its beautiful architecture (and the night testing out the bar scene). (3B, D)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Guided Beatles Magic Mystery Tour • Boat cruise on Loch Ness • Guided tour of York • Driving city tour in Edinburgh to see Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace & the Royal Mile • Entry to Gretna Green Museum • See Eilean Donan Castle • See Stirling Castle & the William Wallace Monument

DAYS 6-7 Edinburgh / St. Andrews / Scottish Highlands / Isle of Skye / West Highlands After a brief stop at the student town of St. Andrews (also famous for having one of the world’s oldest golf courses), hit the road and make for the dramatic peaks of the Scottish Highlands. Home to Britain’s largest national park, the wild landscapes will prove to be the Scotland of your imagination. Here, you’ll also stop by the mysterious Loch Ness. It’s a good idea to get your keenest eye on if you hope to spot Nessie in her natural habitat! Travel over to the Isle of Skye for a scene of moors, mountains, lochs and sea cliffs, plus the gorgeous Fairy Pools. Pay a visit to the colourful seaside town of Portree, then hop back on the mainland, travel past Eilean Donan Castle and, if the weather’s being kind, get a glimpse of the UK’s highest peak, Ben Nevis. (2B, D)

DAYS 8-9 West Highlands / Stirling / Glasgow Visit Stirling to see the impressive William Wallace Monument before reaching Glasgow, the UK’s third-largest city and home to a burgeoning bar and music scene. The trip ends on Day 9 with the opportunity to stay on in Glasgow or opt to hop on a train back to London as an additional supplement. (2B)

Tour Code: COBBBR/COWWBR

S COT L A N D

Loch Ness Isle of Skye

Scottish Highlands

West Highlands Stirling

Glasgow

St. Andrews Edinburgh Gretna Green Lake District York Liverpool

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging

London E N G L A ND

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

SKYE HIGH PRICE (STUDENT / ADULT) FR $209 / FR $328

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Local guide/driver

DURATION 3 DAYS

(100% Scottish!)

ROUTE EDINBURGH - EDINBURGH

GROUP SIZE: Avg 28 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Dunkeld Cathedral, Glencoe, Loch Ness & whisky distillery visit

EUROPE

DEPARTS: Fri and selected Thu (Jan-Feb), Mon, Fri and selected Wed & Sat (Mar-Jun), Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat (Jul-Sep), Mon, Fri & selected Sun (Oct-Dec), Fri & selected Mon & Sat (Jan21-Mar21)

ESCORTED ADVENTURE

DAY 1 Edinburgh / Loch Ness Set off from Scotland’s capital Edinburgh and cross over the Firth of Forth Bridge as you journey north to Macbeth Country, Dunkeld. Try a dram of the ‘water of life’ on a Highland whisky distillery tour, then delve further into the heartland towards Loch Ness. This deep loch stretches for 23 miles between Inverness and Fort Augustus and its cold waters have been extensively explored in search of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.

DAY 2 Isle of Skye Today, explore the Isle of Skye and its myriad of Celtic myths, Viking legends and fairy tales. The largest and most northerly island of the Inner Hebrides is sure to captivate you, from the brooding hills and rugged cliffs to a wonderfully weathered coastline. It’s then back to

the mainland past the photogenic Eilean Donan Castle. Heard of it? It’s been used in numerous film and TV productions, including ‘The Wicker Man’, ‘The World Is Not Enough’, ‘Elizabeth: The Golden Age’ and ‘Highlander’.

DAY 3 Loch Ness / Glencoe / Edinburgh Follow the length of Loch Ness, then leave the Great Glen and pass underneath the shadow of Ben Nevis as you make your way south to Glencoe, which you might recognise as a backdrop from both ‘James Bond’ and the ‘Harry Potter’ films. Continue to pass by Stirling, the scene of some of Scotland’s bloodiest battles during the Wars of Independence. Listen to tales of the warrior William Wallace (aka ‘Braveheart’) and Robert the Bruce before returning to the capital for a night on the town.

Tour Code: BU

SCOTL A N D

Isle of Skye Loch Ness Kyleakin Glencoe

Ben Nevis Dunkeld

Oban

Edinburgh

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostel (2 nts). Private upgrades available.

Not included

Modern coach

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP PRICE FR $1,536

DEPARTS: Daily

DURATION 9 DAYS

INCLUSIONS: One-way ferry crossing for 1 car/4WD (including 2 full-paying passengers) from Ullapool to Stornoway and from Tarbert to Uig

ROUTE EDINBURGH - EDINBURGH

NOTE: Car hire not included. Option to extend/change your route available

ROUTE

SELF-DRIVE

DAYS 1-3 Edinburgh / Dundee / Inverness

DAYS 6-7 Isle of Skye / Glencoe

Pick up your car in Edinburgh (note that car hire is not included) and hit the road to Dundee. Head to Inverness on Day 2 and pass by some well-known whisky distilleries on the way (a fun stop for all non-drivers and a source of envy for everyone else). In the city, visit the old Victorian Market, and take a trip to Loch Ness on Day 3. (3B)

Drive to the village of Tarbert and ferry over to the Isle of Skye. Come to shore at Uig on the west coast of the Trotternish peninsula. Make use of the island’s walking trails or take a wild swim in the Fairy Pools of Glenbrittle. On Day 7, travel to the brooding Glencoe and opt to visit the Folk Museum or the Kinlochlaich House Garden. (2B)

DAYS 4-5 Stornoway

DAYS 8-9 Stirling / Edinburgh

It’s a face full of nature on your way to Stornoway as you drive through the mountainous Highlands. Take a scenic stop at the Rogie Falls or pull up at Corrieshalloch Gorge before arriving at Ullapool for a ferry to Stornoway. Next day, visit the Isle of Lewis’ Iron Age and Viking structures before bedding down in Stornoway for a second night. (2B)

On the way to Loch Lomond, visit the castle at Inverary then take a cruise on the Loch for stunning countryside views. Continue on to Stirling to visit the museums and the National Wallace Monument. After one final night here, drive back to Edinburgh to return your car. (B)

Tour Code: TAIACT

Edinburgh Dundee (113 km) Inverness (220 km) Stornoway (90 km) Skye (56 km) Glencoe (224 km) Stirling (161 km) Edinburgh (48 km)

S COT L A ND

Stornaway

Isle of Skye

Glencoe

Inverness

Dundee Stirling

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

Standard/superior hotels in Dundee (1 nt), Inverness (2 nts), Stornoway (2 nts), Skye (1 nt), Glencoe (1 nt), Stirling (1 nt)

8 breakfasts

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Edinburgh

HIGHLAND FLING ESCORTED ADVENTURE

PRICE (STUDENT / ADULT) FR $473 / FR $486

DURATION 5 DAYS

ROUTE EDINBURGH - EDINBURGH

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Local guide/driver

(100% Scottish!)

GLENCOE

SCOTTISH CEILIDH

WHISKY DISTILLERY

For almost 70 years, this dramatic region of the Scottish Highlands has attracted big film makers.

Learn how to do the Flying Scotsman and Circle Waltz during a traditional ceilidh group dance.

An enviable national drink, learn how Scottish whisky is made and have a dram straight from the source.

DAY 1 Edinburgh / Oban Starting in the Scottish capital, journey into the Scottish Highlands on Day 1. Pass Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument and the medieval stronghold of Doune Castle - a backdrop for ‘Game of Thrones’. Next, visit a Highland whisky distillery for a dram of the ‘water of life’ and head on to the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, also the setting of the historic 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. Oh, and did you remember to pack your kilt? You’ll be ending the day in a traditional Scottish Ceilidh dance.

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

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Jun

May

Apr

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Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP SIZE: Avg 28

02 03 02 06 04 01 04 01 07 05 02 07 02 01 01 06 10 09 13 11 08 06 03 14 12 09 14 04 08 08 13 17 16 20 18 15 11 08 21 19 23 11 15 15 20 24 23 27 25 22 13 10 28 26 18 22 22 27 30 29 18 15 25 29 20 17 25 22 27 24 31

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Culloden Battlefield • Clava Cairns • Hermitage Forest • Whisky distillery visit

DAY 2 Oban / Isle of Skye Passing Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, you’ll traverse the rugged terrain of the Highlands, taking in views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument, built in memory of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s campaign to claim the Scottish throne back in 1745. Potterheads can jump aboard the Hogwart’s Express (summer only), or stay in the coach and watch the world go by on the Road to the Isles. Continue to the Isle of Skye, the second-largest of Scottish islands that’s perhaps most famous for its stretching scenic landscapes.

DAYS 3-4 Isle of Skye / Loch Ness

EILEAN DONAN CASTLE, SCOTLAND

Hear stories of Celtic myths, Viking legends, faeries and clans while taking in the best of what Isle of Skye’s natural scenery has to offer. Later on, it’s back to the mainland via Eilean Donan Castle for a night on the banks of the famous Loch Ness. Day 4, visit HAGGiS Grove (selected departures), where you can do your bit for Scotland and plant a tree in aid of the Trees for Life charity. By doing this, you’ll help to restore the ancient Caledonian Forest. Try your hand monster spotting as you pass the famous Loch Ness and the ruins of Urquhart Castle and journey through the lonely Culloden Battlefield that inspired the hit series, ‘Outlander’.

DAY 5 Loch Ness / Edinburgh Journey back to Scotland’s capital today, passing the Commando Memorial, the forests and the salmon-packed rivers of Perthshire. Travel through the heart of Macbeth Country and explore Dunkeld Cathedral and the woods and waterfalls of the Hermitage. Your trip ends back in historical beauty Edinburgh, where you’ll be returning at around 5pm via UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge.

Tour Code: BU

S COT L A N D

Isle of Skye Loch Ness Kyleakin Glencoe

Ben Nevis Dunkeld

Oban

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostel (4 nts). Private upgrades available.

Not included

Modern coach

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Edinburgh

HIGHLIGHTS OF IRELAND PRICE FR $2,199

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE DUBLIN - BELFAST

DURATION 9 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Office

(CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Cliffs of Moher & Giant’s Causeway visits, Ring of Kerry, excursion, Old Bushmills Distillery Tour

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

ILI

Apr

Mar

Feb

GE 10

25 02 11 04 08 12 03 16 27 11 22 19

E PA

ELIGIB

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $899

DAYS 1-4 Dublin / Killarney Once founded by Vikings as the Norse Kingdom of Dublin, today this Irish capital is a thriving modern city blending heritage and whole lot of character. Meet your group here, engage in some local craic and head to Temple Bar by eve. Spend some time in Killarney on Day 3, exploring the town or nearby national park, then see the famous Ring of Kerry on Day 4. (3B)

DAYS 5-6 Killarney / Galway City Set off for Ireland’s west coast and reach the vibrant Galway City, dotted with brightly painted pubs and flamboyant street buskers. Take in the city’s bohemian atmosphere as you hop on a guided walking tour then, on Day 6, travel to the Cliffs of Moher for a nature

break. Absorb the tranquility with a hike over the grassy cliffs and enjoy views of the rippling blue ocean below you. Returning to Galway in the evening, you’ll have a blast bouncing between the city’s cranking bars and pubs. Did someone say two euro drinks? (2B) Giant’s Causeway

DAYS 7-9 Galway City / Belfast

Derry

On Day 7, Belfast calls with a lunch stop in the historic city of Derry and a visit to the Dark Hedges en route. You’ll have the next couple of days to uncover every nook and cranny of Belfast, from the exciting Titanic Quarter to the nearby natural phenomenon, Giant’s Causeway, and even a distillery visit. Your tour ends here. (3B, L)

Belfast

Galway

Tour Code: GAEQDB

Killarney

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels/guesthouses (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Private vehicle

IRELAND PRICE FR $1,525

Dublin

I R E L A N D

Cliffs of Moher

Cork

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE DUBLIN - DUBLIN

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager & Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visits to Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher & Giant’s Causeway, guided tour of Belfast, LegenDerry walking tour

Sep

05 09 12 19

03 07 10 17

04 07 11 14

01 23 06 04 04 30 13 11 11 20 25 15 27

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $395

DAYS 1-2 Dublin / Kilkenny / Cork

DAYS 5-6 Derry / Belfast

Cram in as much sightseeing as you can muster in lovely Dublin before meeting up with your group. From here, it’s south to Cork - Ireland’s second city - and stop for lunch, with an optional bike ride in Kilkenny on the way. Once you’ve arrived, don’t miss a night out in some of the city’s famous bars and pubs. The craic is mighty. (B, 2D)

Cross over to Derry and opt to tour the Bogside Artists’ famous Murals before billowing on to Belfast. Pay a visit to the Giant’s Causeway - a volcanic collection of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns - and opt to visit the Titanic Museum or Botanic Gardens in your free time. Belfast is also the official home of ‘Game of Thrones’, so if you’re a fan, make sure to visit some of the 25 filming locations, all within easy reach of the city. (2B, D)

DAYS 3-4 Blarney / Cliffs of Moher / Galway Leaving Cork, kiss the Blarney Stone and call by the dramatic Cliffs of Moher en route to Galway. Explore this quintessential Irish town where the Irish language can still be heard. In summer you have the option to sail over to the untamed landscapes of the Aran Islands and discover their mythical appeal. (2B, D)

N O RT H E R N I R E L A N D

Giant’s Causeway Derry Belfast

DAYS 7-8 Dublin Head back to Dublin and choose to enjoy your last night together with a traditional evening before your magical Irish adventure comes to an end. (2B)

Tour Code: COBBIR/COWWIR

Dublin

Galway Cliffs of Moher

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Dec

Aug

01 08 12 15

Nov

Jul

03 10 17 24

Oct

Jun

Mar

May

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

Apr

- WE LOVE -

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

EUROPE

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

Blarney Castle

Kilkenny

Cork

I R E L A N D

SOUTHERN ROCKER PRICE (STUDENT / ADULT) FR $279 / FR $286

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Guide/driver (100% Irish!)

DURATION 3 DAYS

ROUTE DUBLIN - DUBLIN

GROUP SIZE: Avg 25 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Cliffs of Moher entry Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

03 14 27 03 01 05 03 07 04 02 06 04 15 12 05 17 28 10 08 12 10 14 11 09 20 29 26 26 31 17 15 19 17 21 18 16 24 22 26 24 28 25 23 29 31 30

EUROPE

ESCORTED ADVENTURE

DAY 1 Dublin / Cashel / Blarney / Killarney Leaving Dublin, pass through the lush scenery of County Wicklow en route to Cashel. Slap bang in the middle of town lies the famous Rock of Cashel, where you stop for a picture before heading down into County Cork. Choose to see Blarney Castle and don’t forget to kiss the famous Blarney Stone if you want to be blessed with the gift of the gab! Journey on to Killarney, the gateway to some impressive mountain scenery, lakes and waterfalls. In the evening, see if the Blarney Stone has worked and get chatting to some locals in the pub.

DAY 2 Killarney / Dingle Peninsula / Ennis Approach Dingle Peninsula, known for its great beaches and some of the best surfing in Ireland. Dingle is full of old village pubs so grab a snug and order yourself a

Guinness. It’s also home to a thriving Gaelic-speaking community. From here, cross the Shannon River and head to Ennis for a night of traditional Irish music. (B)

DUBLIN, IRELAND

DAY 3 Cliffs of Moher / Galway / Dublin Hold onto your hats this morning, it gets pretty blustery at the Cliffs of Moher. Used as a filming C Olocation U N T R YforN A M E ‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince’, it makes for a great stopping point. En route to Galway, City exploreName the eerie lunar landscape of the Burren. Then, enjoy free time to see the highlights of Galway City, known for its student population, bohemian vibe and summertime street entertainers. Say your goodbyes as it’s time to head back to Dublin for the end of your tour. (B)

I R E L A N D

Galway Cliffs of Moher Ennis

Tour Code: BU

Cashel

Dingle

Blarney

Killarney

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostel (2 nts). Private upgrades available

2 breakfasts

Modern coach

GIANT’S ROCKER PRICE (STUDENT / ADULT) FR $510 / FR $522

Dublin

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Guide/driver (100% Irish!)

DURATION 5 DAYS

ROUTE DUBLIN - DUBLIN

GROUP SIZE: Avg 25 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway visitor centre entry

ESCORTED ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Dublin / Belfast / Carrick-a-Rede / Ballintoy / Derry / Galway From Dublin, head over the border to Belfast, and opt for a Black Cab Tour with a local at the wheel. Learn about The Troubles and explore the city’s political murals then, continue along the Antrim coast and take a (wobbly) stroll on the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, high above the Atlantic Ocean. Follow the footsteps of giants on the amazing natural wonder that is the Giant’s Causeway. The medieval city of Derry is next up as you uncover the city’s harrowing and bloody history on a walk through both past and present. Day 3, leave the North and travel through wild and rugged Connemara towards the culture capital of Ireland, Galway. Take advantage of the city’s homely pubs with Irish folk music gigs and Guinness aplenty. (2B)

Dec

Nov

04 06 11 13 18 20 25 27

Oct

Jul

01 06 08 13 15 20 22 27 29

Sep

Jun

02 09 16 18 23 25 30

Aug

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

01 05 03 12 08 19 10 15 17 22 24 29 31

DAY 4 Inis Mór (Aran Islands) Ferry to the largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mór, an island with over 3,000 miles of stone walls. Jump on a bike, hire a horse and cart, or stroll by foot to explore the island; it’s a real off-the-map experience! Return to Galway for the night for some pub time. (B)

N O RT H E R N I R E L A N D

Ballintoy Giant’s Causeway Derry

DAY 5 Galway / Dublin After a morning in the mythical Burren, Ireland’s limestone ‘lunar landscape’ and said to be home to fairies and leprechauns, approach the Cliffs of Moher. Take in the dramatic scenery then cross the peat bogs of central Ireland to Dublin. The trip ends here, but why not stay on if you wish to see more of this lively city? (B)

Tour Code: BU

Belfast

Connemara Inis Mór

Galway

Dublin

Cliffs of Moher

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostel (4 nts). Private upgrades available

4 breakfasts

Modern coach, ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

I R E L A N D

BEST OF NORTHERN SPAIN PRICE FR $1,699

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE BARCELONA - MADRID

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Orientation walks of Barcelona & Madrid, San Sebastián day trip, rural farmhouse stay, Rioja region wine tasting

ILI

LES APP

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

GE 10

18 09 06 04 01 12 03 07 25 16 13 18 15 19 10 23 20 26 17

E PA

ELIGIB

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE MY OWN ROOM: Fr $469

DAYS 1-3 Barcelona / Pyrénées Mountains

DAY 5 San Sebastián / Bilbao

Spain’s provinces are fiercely proud of their own individual culture and heritage, and none more vocal than Catalonia. You’ll notice many independence flags on your way to meeting your group this evening in Barcelona. Take an orientation walk of the city’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas before heading into the Pyrénées Mountains for a two-night stay in a converted farmhouse, a casa rural. Here, eat home-cooked meals and embark on optional hikes. (2B, 2D)

The nearby coastal town of San Sebastián is calling, and she has an optional pintxos tapas tour waiting for you. If you’re looking to just chill, why not Basque in the sunshine at the Playa de la Concha Beach? Head back to Bilbao to doze off for the night. (B)

DAY 4 Pyrénées Mountains / Bilbao Travel to Bilbao, situated in the sleek Basque region of Spain. That afternoon, you’re free to opt for a visit of the Guggenheim Museum or climb the Mallona Stairs to Parque Etxebarria for glistening views over the city. (B)

F R A N C E

San Sebastián

DAYS 6-8 Logroño / Madrid

Bilbao

The wildly underrated city of Logroño is at the heart of the Rioja wine-producing region. Sample the region’s local vintages in a wine tasting session, toasting with your group as you near the end of your tour. Finish off with Madrid for an orientation walk and a free afternoon in Spain’s capital city. Depart on Day 8. (2B)

Pyrénées

Logroño

Barcelona Madrid

Tour Code: GAESNS

S PA I N

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (5 nts), casa rural (2 nts)

6 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Public bus

ULTIMATE IBERIAN ADVENTURE PRICE FR $1,389

DURATION 15 DAYS

Walk the Camino de Santiago 8 days (GAESCS) Fr $1,249

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Guide and driver

ROUTE BARCELONA - BARCELONA

GROUP SIZE: Avg 25 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Walking tours with local guides in Seville and the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Sintra visit

30 12 04 08 05 20 11 22 27 18 25

ESCORTED ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-4 Barcelona / Madrid / Porto Depart Barcelona and say hola to Madrid, a culture vulture’s dream. Hit the city’s sights on an included orientation walk and chill out in the bohemian Malasaña district for evening drinks. Next, it’s on to the student Mecca of Salamanca with a stop en route to Avila. In laid-back Porto, an orientation walk along the Douro River gives you some direction of how to spend your time. (3B)

DAYS 5-9 Lisbon / Lagos Pop by Sintra on your way to Lisbon. For the next few days, the capital implores you to gorge yourself on pastries and discover the nightlife. Day 8, don your shades as it’s time for Lagos, one of Europe’s sunniest cities. Go swimming, meander the Old Town or see the Ponta da Piedade lighthouse for fantastic sunset. (5B)

DAYS 10-15 Seville / Granada / Valencia / Barcelona Say adiós to Lagos and drive on to Seville with a walking tour on arrival through the city's winding alleys and squares. Day 11, leave Seville for Granada, squeezing in a stop to Plaza España and Ronda. You might find yourself over the next few days sampling tapas, witnessing an optional Flamenco show (in a cave!) and soaking up history on a guided walk of the Alhambra Palace. Day 13, Valencia flaunts her stuff as you encounter the historic Old Town and sample local paella before a night out in the Ruzafa district. Cruise on to Barcelona, home to the incredible Gaudí masterpiece, La Sagrada Família, and a myriad of cutesy cafés. The tour finishes on Day 15. (6B)

Tour Code: BU

F R A N C E

S PA I N

Porto Salamanca

Madrid Lisbon Seville Lagos

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Mixed dorm in hostels (14 nts). Twin-share upgrade available

14 breakfasts

Air con coach

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Barcelona

Valencia

Granada

M O RO CCO

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

EUROPE

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

FIESTAS & SIESTAS EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 12 DAYS

PRICE FR $1,785

ROUTE BARCELONA - MADRID

EUROPE

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager and Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

12 09 05 04 01 26 23 21 18 15

09 21

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

BILBAO Check out Bilbao's unique Guggenheim Museum, and tuck in to a Basque-style dinner.

Apr

SALAMANCA An astronaut and a dragon eating ice cream are carved into the cathedral of this university town.

Mar

SPECIAL STAY Take to the Castillian countryside and bag yourself a room in a 15thcentury castle.

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

NEED TO KNOWS

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $619

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

DAYS 1-3 Barcelona / Pamplona Land in sexy Barcelona, home to weird and wonderful Gaudí architecture, delicious tapas and cocktail bar-clad beaches. Get to know your group and hit the town to experience Barca’s notorious nightlife. The next day is a city tour covering everything from the Gothic Quarter to the Las Ramblas district. Sign up for a traditional Flamenco show to spice up your dinner (hips don’t lie, really). Day 3 takes you to Pamplona where you spend the night. The town is famous for its immense cathedral and controversial bull-running festival. (2B, D)

DAYS 4-6 Bilbao / Salamanca / Porto Venture on to the bohemian town of Bilbao and make a stop en route at Spain’s foodie capital, San Sebastián. Bilbao is home to the architectural haven of the Guggenheim Museum, so be sure to stop by to get your art fix. The student mecca of Salamanca awaits on Day 5. It’s UNESCO-listed for a reason folks, with its golden, intricate architecture and rich history. Take yourself on a walk past the Casa de las Conchas, decorated with over 400 shells, and the late-Gothic Cathedral Nueva. The next day, it’s time to say adiós to Spain and olá to Porto, a hippy hangout and foodie heaven, where you settle in with a traditional dinner. (3B, 2D)

• Barcelona Gothic Quarter tour • Basque-style dinner in Bilbao • Locally guided tour of Madrid's Royal Palace • Visit Aveiro, Portugal's 'mini Venice' • Special Stay at 15th-century castle

DAYS 7-9 Porto / Lisbon Spoil yourself with a full day of exploring Porto on Day 7. Stroll along the Douro River, take in the colourful views of this coastal city and journey on to Lisbon. You have one little stop to do first at the multicoloured wooden row boat town of Aveiro. Touch down in the mosaic-tiled streets of Lisbon, stock up on indulgent custard tarts (famous here, guys) and wander the trendy streets of Alfama. This sought-after city will absolutely charm you. If time allows, take a trip to Sintra, a restort town nestled in the mountains. (3B, D)

DAYS 10-12 Madrid

Bilbao

Madrid time! Embark on an included alternative guided city tour, then opt for a visit to the Valley of the Fallen where the tomb of Franco lies. In your free time, explore the trendy Malasaña district or see if you can spot any rainbows at the Crystal Palace of Buen Retiro Park. Build up an appetite for your farewell dinner (at extra cost), before heading home the following day after breakfast. (3B, D)

Tour Code: COBBFS/COWWFS

San Sebastián

Pamplona Zaragoza

Porto Aveiro

Lisbon

Salamanca

Madrid

Barcelona

S PA I N

P O RT U G A L

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin or triple-share in hotels (11 nts)

11 breakfasts, 5 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

HIGHLIGHTS OF ITALY PRICE FR $1,799

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE MILAN - ROME

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Orientation walk in Milan, Venice, and Rome, Piazzale Michelangelo walk, Pisa visit, traditional Roman meal

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

ILI

Apr

Mar

GE 10

19 03 07 12 02 13 11 08 24 14 16 20 25 21 30 27

E PA

ELIGIB

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAY 1 Milan

DAYS 4-5 Florence

While you’re free to arrive in Milan at any time today before your welcome meeting, we recommend getting here early to explore as much as you can. Feast like a Milanese. Forget pizza and pasta, hearty meat dishes and risotto are where it’s at. Buon appetito!

All your time here is spent at leisure and boy, there’s a lot to get through. This is possibly one of the world’s most impressive Renaissance cities, so wander around the Uffizi Gallery, see the statue of David or head over to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views over the city. Don’t leave without consuming your weight in gelato. (2B)

DAYS 2-3 Milan / Venice Take an orientation walk of the city first thing on Day 2 before enjoying some free time. Opt to see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper before taking the train to Venice this afternoon. Start Day 3 with an orientation tour of Venice, a city of marble palaces built on a lagoon. Stroll over bridges and canals and visit the Palazzo Ducale and Basilica di San Marco. (2B)

Milan

Venice

DAYS 6-8 Pisa / Rome En route to Rome, pose next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Just a little more to the left, now move your hand higher. Perfect! Explore the Eternal City on Day 7 and get a taste of Italy with a traditional Roman meal. The trip ends after breakfast on Day 8. (3B, D)

I TA LY

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Bus, train

ICONIC ITALY

Florence

Pisa

Tour Code: GAEIMR

ACCOMMODATION

PRICE FR $4,349

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $479

Rome

TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE VENICE - ROME

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer,

local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 10 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Sorrento lemon farm visit and limoncello tasting, agriturismo lunch, orientation walks in Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome, Amalfi Walk of the Gods hike

25 09 20 04 01 12 10 07 23 18 15 26

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,299

DAYS 1-3 Venice / Cinque Terre

DAYS 7-9 Naples / Sorrento

Arrive in Venice at any time on Day 1. Next morning, take an orientation walk through the city’s local markets and neighbourhoods. Opt to visit museums, the Doge’s Palace or take a gondola ride. On Day 3, head to Cinque Terre, one of the most beautiful areas of the Mediterranean. Visit Monterosso al Mare, a charming village nestled in the hillside and enjoy a free afternoon. (2B)

Catch the train to Naples with the option to enjoy a meal in the birthplace of pizza. Day 8 begins with an excursion to the ruins of ancient Pompeii with an archaeologist. Continue by private bus to Sorrento. Enjoy a free day here and choose to visit the nearby island of Capri. (3B)

DAYS 4-6 Florence / Naples Travel to the Tuscan capital of Florence. Take an orientation walk through the lively yet ancient streets and enjoy an included aperitivo (pre-dinner alcoholic beverage) experience at a local bar. Enjoy free time on Days 5 and 6 and opt to visit the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio or take an excursion to Pisa. (3B)

Venice

DAYS 10-14 Amalfi / Rome Visit an organic lemon farm to see how limoncello is made then travel to the Amalfi Coast for a homegrown lunch at a local agriturismo. Hike the Walk of the Gods on Day 11 and journey to Rome the next morning. Take an orientation walk before opting to visit the Colosseum or Vatican during free time. Depart on Day 14. (5B, L)

Tour Code: GAEITNG

Cinque Terre

Florence

Rome I TA LY

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotel (13 nts)

13 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Train, private minibus, boat

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Naples Sorrento Amalfi Coast

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

EUROPE

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

ITALIAN ADVENTURE PRICE FR $409

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Guide and driver

ROUTE ROME - ROME

DURATION 3 DAYS

GROUP SIZE: Avg 25 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Entry and guided tour in Pompei, orientation walk in Sorrento, boat trip to Capri, guided drive of Amalfi coast DEPARTS: Selected Mondays and Fridays

(May-Sept)

EUROPE

ESCORTED ADVENTURE

DAY 1 Rome / Pompeii / Sorrento

DAY 3 Amalfi Coast / Rome

Leave Rome and travel to one of Europe’s most compelling archaeological sites, Pompeii. After, wind along the scenic Amalfi Coast through a succession of villages to Sorrento, your base for the next two nights. Dip in the pool before making your way into town for an orientation walk and an optional meal at a traditional restaurant. Later, go seek out a few cocktails at some local bars.

Make the most of your final day driving the spectacular Amalfi coastline, past celebrity homes and the sun-drenched village of Positano, with relaxed stops in Ravello and Amalfi Town. For a true taste of the Italian south, sit on the beach with a fresh panino and eat the best cakes ever at the local bakeries. Make sure to get a photo of the Amalfi Cathedral, a truly stunning example of medieval architecture nestled between the historic buildings of the main piazza. In the afternoon, return to the Eternal City where the trip concludes. Local traffic conditions mean we can’t guarantee the return time so we recommend you book your onward travel for the day after your trip ends.

DAY 2 Capri Island / Sorrento Get a taste of la dolce vita as you jump on a local boat and head to glitzy Capri for the day. The island is a celeb favourite, so keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the rich and famous. Indulge on gelato or sip espresso in the main square, the perfect place to people watch.

POMPEII, ITALY

I TA LY

Rome

Tour Code: BU

Sorrento Isle of Capri

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share tent cabins (2 nts). Upgrade available

Not included

Modern air con coach, ferry

MILAN & LAKE COMO

Pompeii Amalfi Coast / Ravello

LET’S GO SOUTH

PRICE

DURATION

ROUTE

PRICE

DURATION

ROUTE

FR $218

3 DAYS

MILAN - MILAN

FR $829

7 DAYS

ROME - ROME

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

Combine fashionable Milan with the towns surrounding Lake Como on a three-day trip. In Milan, pass by the intricate Duomo, La Scala Opera House and a medieval castle on a walking tour before finishing up with an aperitivo in the popular area of Navigli. On Day 2, travel to Como by train then take a ferry across the lake to the village of Bellagio. Soak up some of the best views in the region before cruising over to Varenna for old fisherman’s houses and amazing gelato. Return to Milan that evening and depart on Day 3.

See the very best sights of Italy in just one week with this whirlwind tour, whisking you off to Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Naples, Pompeii, Positano and the Isle of Capri. Local guides will provide you with all of the inside secrets and top tips, while highlights include a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Rome, guided walks of Sorrento and Naples, entry to Pompeii and a boat trip to the Isle of Capri. Cap it all off with stunning scenery, countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites and delicious local food.

INCLUSIONS

Departs: Saturdays Age Group: Exclusively for 18-39s Accommodation: Bed in shared dorm or a private double/twin room (2 nts) Meals: Not included Transport: Return train to Como Includes: English-speaking tour guide, Orientation walks in Milan & Como, boat tour on Lake Como Tour Code: MILLAK

Departs: Mondays (Apr-Sep) Age Group: Exclusively for 18-39s Accommodation: Hostels in Rome (3 nts), shared cabin in Sorrento camping village (3 nts). Private upgrades available Meals: 2 dinners Transport: Private van/coach to Amalfi coast, boat ride to Capri Includes: Englishspeaking guide, guided tours, orientation walks Tour Code: ROMSOU

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

SIMPLY ITALY EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 12 DAYS

ROUTE ROME - ROME

- WE LOVE -

EUROPE

PRICE FR $1,799

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

28 25 09 06 04 01 01 17 21 05 09 16 13 11 08 05 24 18 25 23 16 14 15 12 26 30 20 18 22 26 23 25 29 27

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $695

VENICE

FLORENCE

CINQUE TERRE

Glide through the character-filled canals of the Floating City on a private boat cruise.

Feast on amazing art, tasty Tuscan cuisine and creamy gelato in Renaissance Firenze.

These Lego-like cliffs make up one stunning coastline, with views and food to match.

DAYS 1-3 Rome / Sorrento / Capri Check into your Rome hotel and get to know your group over dinner. On Day 2, opt to swing by the Pope’s house on a guided tour of the Vatican before travelling to the holiday resort of Sorrento, passing by Mt. Vesuvius on the way. Arrive on the Amalfi Coast and sip a sunset drink overlooking the Bay of Naples. Capri is a perennial favourite with the rich and glamorous, and Day 3 is the day to grab a slice of the action for yourself. Take a boat over to the island and prepare to be dazzled. In winter, visit Positano instead. (2B, 2D)

DAYS 4-5 Florence Leaving the southern coast behind, make your way through rural Umbria and the vineyards of Tuscany until you find Renaissance Florence. On Day 5, ogle the city’s famous sites on a guided tour that takes in the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery and Piazza della Signoria. Enjoy an optional Tuscan meal this evening. (2B, D)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Sightseeing tour of Rome • Guided tour of Vatican Museum & St. Peter’s Basilica • Day trip to Capri (summer only) • Guided walking tour and leather craft demo in Florence • Private motorboat tour through the canals of Venice • Wine tasting in Tuscany • Full-day train ticket in Cinque Terre

DAYS 6-7 Verona / Venice Stop in Verona to see Romeo and Juliet’s balcony and the Roman Arena, then continue on to the City of Canals. It’s an early start on Day 7 as you discover Venice’s historic buildings, art-filled palaces, story book bridges and hidden lanes. Your day of sightseeing will be topped off with an included private boat cruise to the islands. (2B)

DAYS 8-9 Lake Como / Milan / La Spezia (Cinque Terre) From the Floating City to the fashion capital, make your way to Milan and stop on the shores of Lake Como en route. As you wander past ancient churches, galleries and squares, you’ll discover that high-end shopping isn’t all this glamorous hotspot has to offer. On Day 9, travel the cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre. This UNESCO-listed region is one of the country’s crowning glories, and your full-day train ticket gives you access to the hiking trails. (2B)

DAYS 10-12 Pisa / Rome After an obligatory photo stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, pull up to the Chianti Region for a local wine tasting (our kind of truck stop). Back in Rome, there’s still plenty to see, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon. You’ll be glad(iator) you came back... The trip ends after breakfast on Day 12. (3B)

Tour Code: COBBSY/COWWSY

Lake Como Milan Cinque Terre

Verona

Venice

La Spezia Pisa

Florence

Chianti Region

I TA LY

Rome Vatican City Naples Isle of Capri

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin or triple-share hotels (11 nts)

11 breakfasts, 3 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Pompeii Sorrento

EASTERN ROAD EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $2,685

DURATION 13 DAYS

ROUTE BERLIN - WARSAW OR BERLIN

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager & Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

CHAPEL OF BONES Either the stuff of nightmares or the coolest thing you’ve ever seen. The chandelier is especially chilling.

Apr

HOT SPRINGS Soak in the blue, thermal waters of Budapest after a long day. Nudity is no longer accepted - bummer.

Mar

THE BERLIN WALL Europe’s most provocative canvas, what once was grey now bursts with colour and political messages.

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS

18 02 13 04 08 05 16 20 18 15 12 30 25 29

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $759

DAYS 1-4 Berlin / Dresden / Prague Get a taste of Berlin when you arrive, then hit the ground running the next day as you soak up commemorative artwork on the Berlin Wall’s East Side Gallery, visit Checkpoint Charlie, explore the inner-city Tiergarten and Brandenburg Gate. The city is home to legendary nightclubs, so don’t leave without getting stuck in. Stop in Dresden, also known as the Florence of the North, on your way south to Prague. Once in Prague, a bike tour of the city will overload you with sights of this timeless city. With the evening to yourself, you’re free to stroll across Charles Bridge to explore Hradcany Castle and St. Vitus’ Cathedral, or bag yourself a spot on Wenceslas Square for some people-watching. (3B, 2D)

DAYS 5-8 Kutná Hora / Vienna / Budapest In the Czech countryside lies the small town of Kutná Hora, home to the haunting Sedlec Ossuary. Stop at this chapel made of human bones on your way to the Habsburg Palaces of Vienna. Day 6 is yours to stuff yourself silly with strudel, scream yourself hoarse on rides at Prater Park or take in an optional Mozart concert in the evening. Cross the Hungarian border on Day 7 to Budapest for views of St. Matthias Church, the Chain Bridge and Hungary’s beautiful parliament building. During your free day, walk around historic Buda and modern-day Pest, then opt to reward weary feet at one of the city’s hot springs. (4B)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Prague bike ride with local expert • Tours of Auschwitz concentration camp, Kraków & Warsaw • Visits to Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Vienna, Budapest & Banská Bystrica

DAYS 9-10 Banská Bystrica / Kraków Stop in Banska Bystrica to see the sombre black obelisk, a war monument in the town square. On Day 10, stretch your legs in Kraków, where you can browse medieval shopping arcades and fill yourself with pierogis. A guided tour digs a little deeper by introducing you to the Cathedral and Royal Castle on Wawel Hill. Alternatively, choose to explore outside of the city centre with an optional guided tour of the nearby salt mines. (2B, D)

DAYS 11-13 Auschwitz / Warsaw / Berlin En route to Warsaw, stop at the World War II concentration camp of Auschwitz. On Day 12, get to know this phoenix city with a guided tour of the Old Town, the Royal Palace and Warsaw’s Jewish Ghetto. To get off the beaten path, check out Galeria Forty/Forty, a hidden art gallery in an abandoned fort. The trip ends after breakfast on your last day. You can stay in Warsaw or take the free transfer back to Berlin. (3B, D)

Berlin Warsaw G E R M A N Y

P O L A N D

Dresden

Tour Code: COBBRH

Prague

Kutná Hora

Auschwitz Kraków

C Z EC H R E P.

Banská Bystrica

S LOVA K I A

Vienna

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (12 nts)

12 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Air con coach

AU S T R I A

Budapest H U N G A RY

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

ADRIATIC UNEARTHED EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE ROME - ROME

- WE LOVE -

EUROPE

PRICE FR $3,145

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager & Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

HIGHLIGHTS

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

22 05 03 07 11 19 10 14 26 17 28 24

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,055

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL ACCESS TOUR OF ROME

ISLAND ESCAPE TO CORFU

PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Tick off those famed sites including Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.

This island off Greece’s north west coast is filled with natural beauty.

This set of interconnected lakes is hidden deep in Croatian woodlands.

• Locally guided walking tour of Florence and Dubrovnik • Entry to Plitvice Lakes National Park • Guided tour of Pompeii • Private boat ride through Venice

DAYS 1-3 Rome / Florence Go on, reach for that last slice of pizza. Take that extra scoop of gelato. It’s Rome time. Meet your group here in Italy’s historic capital and soak up the cultural delights of this city. See St. Peter’s Square and the Castel Sant’Angelo, and opt to visit the Colosseum. Leaving Rome, wind through the rolling hills and terraced vineyards of Umbria to the Renaissance city of Florence. This romantic, art-filled haven never fails to impress! On your arrival, you’ll be treated to a walking tour of the city’s striking buildings and art galleries. (2B, D)

DAYS 4-6 Florence / Venice / Ljubljana / Plitvice Lakes Swap the charms of arty Florence for the floating gondolas of Venice, where you’ll spend the night. Slovenia calls the next day, with an optional stop at the Postojna Caves en route. The capital Ljubljana is known for its green credentials as one of Europe’s most environmentally-friendly hubs, so be sure to have a little wander through this park-filled city. On Day 6, visit Croatia’s UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes (there’s a whole 16 of them) and relax by the waterfalls. (3B, D)

DAYS 7-9 Plitvice Lakes / Split / Dubrovnik / Tirana After that serene interlude, amp it up a notch on arrival into Split’s beachside party scene and spend the night bar and club-hopping. Opt for a typical Croatian feast and then, on Day 8, take the scenic route to Dubrovnik where you’ll be able to see the walled town (a filming location for ‘Game of Thrones’). This city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason, with a rich history to uncover. Then, head into Albania and journey to capital Tirana. (3B, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Shorten your trip Adriatic Horizon (8 days, Rome - Split) (COBBAH) Adriatic Spirit (8 days, Split - Rome) (COBBAS)

Fr $1,875

Fr $1,915

DAYS 10-15 Tirana / Corfu / Port of Bari / Amalfi Coast / Rome Dreaming of an island escape? Corfu’s your answer on Days 10 and 11. Get stuck into a whole host of watersports, soak up the sun and generally just relax. Your tummy will be grumbling for a taste of traditional Greek food, so dine in one of the many restaurants for an Ionian dinner of tzatziki, feta, souvlaki and perhaps some more tzatziki. For a stunning sunset, head to the Monastery of Panagia Palaiokastritsa. Granted, it’s touristy, but the view is worth it, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Once you’ve had enough of the beach, hop aboard an overnight ferry on Day 12 back to Italy to the Port of Bari and the Amalfi Coast. Plus, culture vultures will be delighted to know that entry to Pompeii is already covered! On Day 14, head north past Mt. Vesuvius back to Rome, where your trip ends Day 15. (6B, D)

Ljubljana Venice

Plitvice Lakes

I TA LY

Florence

Tour Code: COBBAUM

I TA LY

C ROAT I A

Rome

Split Dubrovnik Bari

Salerno / Amalfi Coast

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (13 nts), ferry (1 nt)

14 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Air con coach with Wi-Fi and power points for charging, ferry crossings

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Tirana

Corfu

BEST OF THE BALKANS EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $2,855

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE SPLIT - SPLIT

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager & driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

HIGHLIGHTS

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

05 03 07 11 19 10 14 26 17 21 24 28 31

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $955

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES THE BRIDGE OF MOSTAR

PLITVICE LAKES

DIOCLETIAN’S PALACE

A fine example of Balkan Islamic design that’s seen a thing or two, and been rebuilt a few times as well.

Pools on pools on pools. Tiered swimming holes are connected by hundreds of waterfalls.

This Roman ruin is hotly contested to be the best in shape in Europe. She doesn’t look a day over 1,800.

DAYS 1-3 Split / Dubrovnik

• Walking tours of Dubrovnik & Sarajevo • Driving city tour of Budapest • Visits to Split, Dubrovnik, Budva, Mostar, Belgrade, Ljubljana, Plitvice Lakes & Zadar

Check into your Split hotel and get to know your travel pals over dinner. A visit to Diocletian’s Palace makes the most of your free morning before driving down the Dalmatian coastline to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik. Feast on the sights that give the city its title as the Pearl of the Adriatic on a locally guided walking tour. (2B, D)

DAYS 4-6 Dubrovnik / Budva Start your scenic drive along the fjords of southern Europe towards Montenegro, stopping en route in the fortified town of Kotor. The coastal town of Budva is where you spend Day 5 either in the Old Town or at the nearby beaches to swim in fantastic turquoise waters. Cross into Bosnia and admire the famous town of Mostar. (3B, 3D)

DAYS 7-9 Sarajevo / Belgrade / Budapest Sarajevo is a city of diversity and tolerance, rising up from a difficult past to celebrate the peaceful coexistence of Christians, Muslims and Jews. You can find many beautiful places of worship in the city, most notably the Ottomanbuilt Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. Find your feet on a locally guided tour. Bašcaršija, the Old Town, is awash with bazaars, restaurants (try cevapi) and cool bars. Day 8, make your way to the Serbian capital. Visit Belgrade’s Old Town and opt to soak up festive vibes at one of the city’s bars. Cross into Hungary on Day 9 and head to Budapest. (3B)

DAYS 10-12 Budapest / Ljubljana / Plitvice Lakes

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Best of the Balkans (15 days, Budapest - Budapest) (COBBBB) Fr $2,855 Shorten your trip Balkans Discovery (11 days, Split - Budapest) (COBBCB) Fr $2,409

Explore both sides of the Danube on a driving tour, visiting Buda, Pest, the Royal Palace, the Church of St. Matthias, the Chain Bridge and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Launch into the city’s heavenly thermal baths and the array of museums and galleries peppered around the city. It’s always hard to leave Budapest, but day 11 takes you to the vibrant student city of Ljubljana in Slovenia, home to a hilltop castle and a colourful Old Town. The pristine lakes and waterfalls of Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO-listed site, is a prime spot to cool off and get back to nature on Day 12. (3B, 2D)

DAYS 13-15 Plitvice Lakes / Zadar / Split

Budapest H U N G A RY

S LOV E N I A

Make your way to Zadar and visit the Sea Organ, a system of pipes and whistles built into stone steps by the sea that sing when the waves push air through them. The journey back to Split starts on Day 14. On your last night, head to the sparkling waterfront for one last hurrah! You depart after breakfast on Day 15. (3B)

Ljubljana C ROAT I A

Tour Code: COBBCH

Plitvice Lakes B O S N I A & H E R Z EG OV I N A

Zadar

Sarajevo

Split ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (14 nts)

14 breakfasts, 6 dinners

Air con coach

S E R B I A

Mostar

Dubrovnik Kotor M O N T E N EG RO

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Belgrade

Budva

SAILING CROATIA SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE DUBROVNIK - SPLIT

EUROPE

PRICE FR $1,429

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Marine AGE GROUP: Min 16 GROUP LEADER: Skipper/Chief experience

GROUP SIZE: Max 8

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

Officer (CEO)

NOTE: The trip is not fixed. Destinations are picked according to the wishes of the group, with guidance from the skipper

ILI

LES APP

, LY

REMOTE VIS

GLAMOROUS HVAR

BACK STREET’S BRAC

Covered in vineyards and film set of ‘Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again’.

Like Cannes and Monaco’s little cousin, it’s indulgent yet relaxed.

A triangle of sand juts into the ocean and is dotted with sunbathers.

DAYS 1-8 Dubrovnik / Adriatic Sea / Split There’s no fixed route on this one-way cruise along Croatia’s craggy Adriatic shoreline. It all depends on the interests and wishes of the group along with the guidance of the resident expert, the yacht’s skipper. Possible stops may include the popular islands of Hvar, Korcula and Ploce, the more remote island of Vis, or coastal towns along the mainland. Your home for the week will be a 15-metre (52ft) sailing yacht, which you share with a maximum of eight guests in four twin-share cabins with shared bathroom facilities. The tour runs in both directions between the coastal towns of Split and Dubrovnik. Please note the itinerary may change due to inclement weather conditions. Possible ports of call:

Mljet Famous for hiking, cycling, swimming and stunning scenery, the island of Mljet is where it was reputed Odysseus stayed for seven years. You can enjoy a guided tour of the national park or a swim in one of the saltwater lakes.

Korcula Said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo in 1254, Korcula Town will soon lure you in. Gothic St. Mark’s Cathedral is a popular highlight, but a lot of this town’s charm comes from wandering among its red roof houses and narrow streets.

Ploce Disembark at this bustling town on the mainland of Croatia, where the streets are packed with wonderful shopping opportunities, or get out of town and laze about for a while at one of the many beautiful beaches nearby.

Aug

Sep

01 08 13 15 22 27 29

05 03 10 06 12 08 19 22 24 26

Dec

Jul 02 04 11 16 18 25 30

Nov

Jun 04 06 13 16 18 20 27

Oct

May

25 02 07 09 16 21 23 26 30

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2020:

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Sailing the Dalmatian Coast • Snorkelling equipment available • Visits to Dubrovnik and Split

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Croatia & The Balkans (15 days, Budapest - Split) (GAECVD) Go in reverse Sailing Croatia (8 days, Split - Dubrovnik) (GAECVS)

Fr $2,249

Fr $1,429

Hvar Hvar is a popular choice with the rich and famous, as you might be able to guess judging by the expensive pleasure yachts you’ll see moored in the marina at Hvar Town. This stylish island is also a paradise for hedonistic nightlife.

Brac

Split

Brac is the perfect place to while away a sunny afternoon on the beach, breaking only to take regular dips in the crystal-clear water. Indulge in a beachside barbecue accompanied by wines sourced direct from the vineyards.

B O S N I A & H E R Z EG OV I N A

Tour Code: GAECVD

Vis

Brac Hvar

Korcula

Ploce Mljet

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Yachts (7 nts) – equipped with 4 twin-share cabins, 3 bathrooms and 2 showers

Basic items on board will be covered by a food kitty of about USD $80 per person

Sailing yacht

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

C ROAT I A

Dubrovnik

GREEK SAILING PRICE FR $1,585

TRIP STYLE: Sailing AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE ATHENS - ATHENS

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Dedicated on-board skipper GROUP SIZE: Max 8 per boat INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: On-board snorkels, goggles & stand-up paddleboards, ferries between the islands

DAYS 5-6 Poros / Aegina

Board your yacht and get your Greek on with a voyage through the islands, starting with unspoilt Perdika. Swim in sparkling waters, then it’s off to Hydra. This island got its name from the Greek word for water, a reference to its natural springs. Cars aren’t allowed here, so expect to see donkeys as the main mode of transport. (B)

Today, anchor at Dhokos and Kounoupi islets on your way to Poros, where you can hop between the bars and tavernas. On Day 6, sail to the main port on the island of Aegina, popular for its fresh seafood, pistachio nuts and tiny 13th-century Byzantine chapel. (2B)

On Day 3, you’ll reach the Peloponnese Coast and the port of Plaka. Cobblestone streets lined with tiny shops crammed with handmade jewellery and ceramics give this spot a vintage feel. Pick up a souvenir, then it’s back to the islands with a visit to sophisticated Spetses. Here, you’ll find Neoclassical houses, horsedrawn carts, smart cafés and an open-air cinema. (2B)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

DAYS 7-8 Athens Athens

Sail back towards Athens and round off the day with a stop at the resort town of Kalamaki, characterised by its sandy shores and calm, shallow waters. Lower the anchor in Athens and enjoy the evening at leisure. Head to a cosy wine bar or grab a meze dinner before the tour comes to an end on Day 8. (2B)

Aegina Poros

Tour Code: COCCGS

Spetses Plaka (Leonidas)

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share berths with bathrooms on a sailing yacht (7 nts)

7 breakfasts

Traditional sailing yacht

MYKONOS & SANTORINI ISLAND HOPPING PRICE FR $1,000

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,425

DAYS 1-2 Athens / Hydra

DAYS 3-4 Plaka / Spetses

22 05 03 07 04 29 12 10 14 11 19 17 21 18 26 24 28 31

EUROPE

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

DURATION 7 DAYS

ROUTE ATHENS - ATHENS

Hydra

G R E EC E

AGE GROUP: Min 18 HIGHLIGHTS: Party on Paradise beach, free time in Mykonos, swim at a black-sand beach, taste Greek cuisine & watch a magnificent Skaros sunset DEPARTS: Daily (Apr-Oct)

INDEPENDENT TOUR

DAYS 1-3 Athens / Mykonos Make your own way to Athens’ Piraeus Port for your ferry to Mykonos. Upon arrival, get out and explore the island’s boutiques, restaurants, bars and beaches on your own. For those up for a party, make sure you head to Paradise Beach for world-famous DJs. Next day enjoy a free day to sample traditional Greek cuisine, go scuba diving or explore Delos Island. You have one more free day on Day 3, so why not make the most of the nightlife?

DAYS 4-5 Mykonos / Santorini Hop aboard your ferry to Santorini, one of Greece’s most popular islands (for good reason!). Think white-washed buildings, stunning views, world-famous sunsets and unforgettable beaches. Settle in on your first day, then enjoy the next day at leisure. Go swimming at a

black-sand beach, get a taste for Greek cuisine and fresh seafood, or go on a boat trip to see the volcanic caldera. Definitely check out the magnificent sunset from Skaros, a rocky headland in Imerovigli, and hit the lively bars.

MYKONOS, GREECE

DAYS 6-7 Santorini / Athens Make the most of your last full day in Santorini, top up your tan, amble through the villages of Fira and Oia, and have one last sunset overlooking the volcanic caldera. Don’t forget to try the local Santorini salad (a twist on the traditional Greek salad with capers and anchovies yum). You can now go to sleep with your heart and belly full. Next morning, transfer back to port and grab the ferry back to Athens, where your trip ends.

Athens Mykonos

Tour Code: BEBEMSAD

G R E EC E

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Choose from dorm hostels or 2*, 3* or 4* hotels (6 nts)

6 breakfasts (3* and 4* packages only)

Ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Santorini

THE BEST OF TURKEY PRICE FR $1,099

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Any age

ROUTE ISTANBUL - ISTANBUL

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 10

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Istanbul / Gallipoli / Çanakkale / Troy / Ayvalik Meet up with your group in thriving Istanbul then set off for an early start on Day 2, travelling to the WWI battlefield site of Gallipoli for a guided visit to ANZAC Cove and the war cemeteries. Later, make your way to the seaport town of Çanakkale and relax by the harbour. Day 3 calls for a visit to the ancient ruins of Troy and your chance to get a selfie with the Trojan Horse before winding up in Ayvalik. This city offers lovely old Ottoman architecture, cobbled streets and an attractive harbour. Here, visit çöp(m)adam, a G for Good handicraft project addressing the issues of women’s employment and the importance of recycling, then opt for a boat cruise and bed down in a converted Ottoman-style mansion. (2B)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

GE 10

21 18 16 13 11 08 05 03 23 30 20 25 19 17 27

E PA

ELIGIB

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $139

DAYS 4-5 Ayvalik / Ephesus / Selçuk Following free time in Ayvalik, travel to Selçuk - your base for exploring the ruins of ancient Ephesus. Choose to see the picturesque village of Sirince, the grand St. John’s Basilica or the magnificent Mosque of Isa Bey. (2B)

Istanbul

DAYS 6-8 Pamukkale / Istanbul The white cliffs of Pamukkale (pictured above) will be yours to uncover on Day 6. Soak in the thermal springs and hop to the nearby ancient site of Hierapolis, built originally by the Romans as an elegant spa resort. Board a flight to Istanbul and stroll around the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace and Aya Sofia before R&R time in a traditional hammam. The tour ends on Day 8. (3B)

Gallipoli Çanakkale / Troy Ayvalik T U R K E Y

Tour Code: GAETBT

Selçuk / Ephesus Pamukkale

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts

Private air con van, plane

TURKISH SAILING PRICE FR $1,155

TRIP STYLE: Sailing AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE BODRUM - BODRUM

GROUP LEADER: Captain and boat crew GROUP SIZE: Max 20 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Stay and play on a traditional Turkish gulet with large decks and outdoor areas for relaxing

07 04 14 11 21 18 28

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $399

DAYS 1-4 Bodrum / Orak Island / Çökertme / Seven Islands / English Harbour All aboard the traditional Turkish-style wooden gulet! This boat is your home for the next seven nights, so get ready for a taste of that sailor life. Hop aboard in Bodrum and set sail for sleepy Orak Island the next day. Enjoy a delicious lunch on deck, then take in the coastline as you head to the little fishing town of Çökertme. On Day 3, take to the crystal-clear waters of Çamli Koy en route to Seven Islands. Here, you’ll be free to roam the forests and swim with sea critters, followed by a night in Küfre where you can hike up a hill for sunset views. English Harbour is calling on Day 4, with most of your day spent swimming and lapping up your surroundings. Alternatively, opt for a day trip to Dalyan. (3B, 3L, 4D)

DAYS 5-8 Cleopatra Island / Ballisu / Longoz / Kisebuku / Pabucburnu / Yaliciftlik Bay / Bodrum On Day 5, the sandy shores of Cleopatra Island await. This small slice of paradise offers white sand and azure waters, supposedly once enjoyed by Cleopatra herself. Continue to Ballisu for a barbecue and a night under the stars. With wild pirate antics set for the night ahead, relax the next day in the village of Mazi. On Day 7, discover Pabucburnu and Yaliciftlik Bay, or head ashore for an optional village tour, then cruise back to Bodrum. It’s a well-known party town and the coastline is quite idyllic, so there’s plenty to see before your tour ends on Day 8. (4B, 3L, 3D)

Tour Code: COBBTS

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Traditional Turkish gulet (two-person cabin with en suite). Single cabins available at a supplement.

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners, 6 afternoon teas

Turkish gulet

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

T U RKE Y

English Harbour Pabucburnu Bodrum Çökertme Orak Island Cleopatra Island

Ballisu Kisenbuku

Dec

Nov

03 10 17 24 31

Oct

05 12 19 26

Sep

Jul

01 08 15 22 29

Aug

Jun

Apr

Mar

May

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

EUROPE

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

Jan 21

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Converted Ottoman mansion stay, Pamukkale visit, G for Good visit to çöp(m)adam in Ayvalik

TURKEY: COASTLINES & KEBABS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

PRICE FR $1,069

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE ISTANBUL - ISTANBUL

GE 10

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB T

LES APP

, LY

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 12

27 10 08 05 03 07 11 02 17 31 21 25 09

CAPPADOCIA

PAMUKKALE

OLYMPOS

A landscape of craters, canyons and chimneys, Cappadocia will make you feel like you’re on another planet.

This UNESCO-listed site is another surreal phenomenon giving off strong otherwordly vibes.

A favourite on the once famed hippy trail, this is now where backpackers come to chill out.

DAYS 1-2 Istanbul Welcome to Turkey’s most magical city, where years of history meets some of the world’s best and most intense nightlife. It’s a place where mosques and covered bazaars collide with super clubs and classy cocktail bars, and everything in between. Wind through the markets or feast on Turkish cuisine, then take a night bus to Cappadocia. (B)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $109

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Orientation walk of Istanbul • Overnight boat trip with dinner on the Aegean Sea

DAYS 3-5 Cappadocia Cappadocia is a city formed millions of years ago by a series of volcanic eruptions, creating the magical fairy chimneys you see on all those world-famous postcard pictures. Here, you’ll explore the wonders that make Cappadocia such a must-see. Opt for a home cooked dinner and optional hot-air balloon ride before setting off for Antalya. (3B)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

DAYS 6-9 Olympos / Kekova / Fethiye Travel to the village of Olympos on the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Kick back on the beach, then set off on an evening walk to see the flames of Mt. Olympos at night. On Day 7, board your boat at the beautiful coastal village of Kekova for a relaxing mini-cruise (weather permitting) on the Aegean Sea. Enjoy a freshly cooked dinner aboard then, on Day 8, continue exploring the coast and into the port town of Fethiye. Why not take advantage of your free time with a boat trip to the nearby islands, a hike to Ölü Deniz lagoon or a visit to Butterfly Valley? (4B, D)

DAYS 10-12 Pamukkale / Ephesus / Selçuk In Pamukkale, opt to explore the famous whitewashed calcium terraces of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit ancient Hierapolis. With Greco-Roman ruins aplenty, as well as thermal spas and temple ruins, you’ll never be short of things to do here. Continue to Selçuk and opt to check out the well-preserved Roman ruins of Ephesus, its museum and the magnificent façade of the Library of Celsus. You can also have a wander to St. John’s Basilica, as well as the picturesque village of Sirince where you can sample some delicious Turkish food and wine. (3B)

Absolute Turkey (15 days, Istanbul - Istanbul) (GAETAT) Turkey Multisport (10 days, Istanbul - Göreme) (GAETIG)

Fr $1,499

Fr $1,129

Istanbul

DAYS 13-15 Troy / Çanakkale / Istanbul From the harbour town of Çanakkale, opt to visit the ruined city of Troy and Gallipoli to learn about this important WWI battle site. Return to the big city for one last night out, then depart on Day 15. (3B)

Tour Code: GAETTO

Gallipoli Troy / Çanakkale

T U R K E Y

Pergamum Selçuk / Ephesus

Dalyan

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (11 nts), overnight bus (2 nts), multi-share boat (1 nt, replaced by hotel Mar-Apr)

14 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Public bus, boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Cappadocia

Pamukkale

Kekova

Olympos

BEST OF ICELAND SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 7 DAYS

ROUTE REYKJAVÍK - REYKJAVÍK

- WE LOVE -

EUROPE

PRICE FR $2,499

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

02 09 10 17 24 30 31

06 07 13 15 20 21 28

04 05 08 11 17 22 26

01 02 05 10 17 22 28

02 05 06 13 14 21 27

03 04 10 11

Dec

Jun

11 12 19 25 26

Nov

May

Mar

, LY

Jan

LES APP

Apr

HIGHLIGHTS

Feb

ILI

Max 16, Avg 12

DEPARTURES 2020:

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP SIZE:

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $939

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON

REYNISFJARA BEACH

Visit Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Hot Springs and Þingvellir National Park.

Spot seals floating the day away on these ice floes.

It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise along this moody stretch of black sand.

DAYS 1-3 Reykjavík / Akureyri / Lake Mývatn / Borgarfjörður Drop in any time to the world’s most northerly capital, Reykjavík. Drive towards the compact city of Akureyri the next morning, stopping for lunch at a local cantina on the way. The best way to prepare for your whale watching cruise is by wandering around the flower-lined streets. Eyjafjörður is the top spot for catching pics of bottlenose whales, humpbacks and minke whales. On Day 3, make the short journey to Goðafoss Waterfall, one of the most spectacular splashy things in Iceland! Then it’s off to Lake Mývatn, the dark lava fields and the bubbling mud pools of Dimmuborgir and Námaskarð. End the day with a trip to the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss, and then bed down in Borgarfjörður in a local guesthouse. (2B)

• Visits to The Golden Circle (Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Hot Springs & Þingvellir N.P.), Goðafoss Waterfall, Mývatn Lake, Dimmuborgir, Námaskarð, Dettifoss Waterfall, Vatnajökull Glacier, Jokulsarlon Glacier lagoon, Reynisfjara beach & Seljalandsfoss Waterfall • G for Good visit to Solheimar Ecovillage

DAYS 4-5 Borgarfjörður / Höfn / Vík Leave beautiful Borgarfjörður and head to Höfn, stopping at Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest ice cap in Europe, en route. This beautiful journey takes you through the magnificent eastern fjords along the way. Day 5, you can watch seals sunning themselves on the ice of the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon or opt for a boat cruise. Then continue to Skaftafell National Park for an optional glacier hike en route to the small community of Vík. Make sure you’ve packed your camera if you’re going hiking - the views are pretty damn spectacular! (2B)

DAY 6 Vík / Golden Circle / Reykjavík First up today is the dramatic black-sand beach of Reynisfjara. Bird watchers should keep an eye out for puffins, fulmars and guillemots nesting here. Continue along the Golden Circle to Drumbo and stop at the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss along the way. The day winds down with the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, the hot springs of Geysir and the fascinating tectonic plate geology of Þingvellir National Park. Then, pay a visit to the G for Good Solheimar Ecovillage, a sustainable community of over 100 people dedicated to helping people with disabilities. Scooch on back to creative Reykjavík. (B)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Go along the west coast Iceland Winter (7 days, Reykjavík - Reykjavík) (GAELWR)

Fr $2,249

DAY 7 Reykjavík Sadly, today is the end of your tour and you’re free to depart at any time. If you’ve got time to spare, it’s worth sticking around here. Reykjavík has great nightlife and plenty to see. Check out the famous Blue Lagoon, the Harpa Concert Hall and even the Icelandic Phallological Museum. (B)

Akureyri

Tour Code: GAELBI

Borgarfjörður Lake Mývatn

IC E L AN D

Golden Circle

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Standard hotels (5 nts), guesthouse (1 nt)

6 breakfasts

Private minivan/bus

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Reykjavík

Höfn

Vík

SCANDINAVIA EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $2,655

DURATION 12 DAYS

ROUTE COPENHAGEN - HELSINKI

EUROPE

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

Dec

Nov

03 05 10 12 17 19 24

Oct

Jul

05 12 19 26 28

Sep

Jun

08 15 22 29

Aug

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2020:

07 04 14 21 28

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES OVERNIGHT BALTIC CRUISE

GEIRANGER FJORD CRUISE

STOCKHOLM METRO ART

Bed down on the water as you travel from Stockholm to Helsinki.

Let your jaws unhinge as you enter the epic fjord on an included cruise.

Commuter envy is real as the city’s stations are a work of art.

DAYS 1-3 Copenhagen / Oslo Meet your team in Copenhagen. The best icebreaker is checking out vibrant Nyhavn together on Day 2 and swinging by the Little Mermaid monument, the Town Hall and the Royal Palace. Feeling adventurous? Test out the vibes in the hippy commune of Christiania and get your ride on in the evening at the Tivoli Amusement Park, one of the world’s oldest themeparks. Waltz over on Day 3 to Norway’s capital of Oslo to check out the Gustav Vigeland Sculpture Park. (2B, D)

• Peterhot Palace gardens and fountains • Cruise the Geiranger Fjord • Visit to Oslo’s sculpture park • Orientation tour of Oslo & Stockholm • Visits to Copenhagen, Voss, Gjøvik, Hardangervidda Plateau, Voss & Lom, Lillehammer, Helsinki

DAYS 4-5 Oslo / Voss Kick start your morning with an orientation tour of this harbourside city, then check out one of Oslo’s many museums. If you’re looking to get active, make sure you try your hand cycling on one of the city’s bikes. The next day has scenery spotting on the agenda as you cross the rugged landscapes of the Hardangervidda Plateau en route to Voss. (2B)

DAYS 6-7 Voss / Geiranger Fjord / Lillehammer / Gjøvik Norway’s scenery is mind-blowing as you pass mountains, fjords and glaciers on your way to Geiranger. Spot the incredible Bøyabreen Glacier, drive past Sognefjord - the longest and most spectacular of Norway’s fjords - and opt to go for a hike in Geiranger. Cruise along the serene Geiranger Fjord by boat, then head to the town of Lom to see one of the country’s few remaining medieval stave churches. Continue on to the Olympic lakeside town of Lillehammer, where you can opt for a blood-pumping bobsled ride. Next stop on the agenda; the charming town of Gjøvik. (2B, D)

DAYS 8-10 Gjøvik / Stockholm The route to Stockholm is paved with unspoilt forests and lakes - keep your eyes peeled for bears, wolves and moose along the way. Take a chance on an optional guided tour of the ABBA Museum, then the rest of the day is yours to hang out in the city. The Vasa warship museum - one of Stockholm’s main draws, showcasing the world’s most intact 17th-century ship - and the Skansen open-air museum will satisfy your history fix. Don’t miss the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace before catching an overnight ferry to Helsinki on Day 10. (3B)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Russia Plus (14 days, Stockholm-Warsaw) (COCCRS)

Geiranger Fjord

Fr $2,655

S W E D E N

Gjøvik

DAYS 11-12 Helsinki

Voss

Dock into the quirky Finnish capital this morning. After visiting the Senate Square and the Uspenski Cathedral, use your free time to get a little steamy in a sauna. So what if it’s summer? Depart any time on Day 12. (2B)

N O RWAY

Helsinki

Oslo Stockholm

Tour Code: COCCSH

D E N M A R K Copenhagen

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Quad-share hotels/hostels (10 nts), quad-share Baltic cruise (1 nt)

11 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Air con coach, ferry

Copenhagen

Optional Start

Berlin G E R M A N Y

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

LONDON FAN CY A FEW BRIT NEY S?

EUROPE

(Spears = beers; a great addition to the Cockney slang dictionary, we think you’ll agree). Quick wit, sarcasm, Big Ben, the odd Royal, pubs aplenty and high teas. That’s London, baby! Act the tourist and tick off historic landmarks en route from one boozer to the next, stroll through the Royal Parks or amble through the tatty but achingly cool East End. Swap galleries for street art, vinyl and vintage on Brick Lane then head to hipster Shoreditch and play spot the man bun.

- TOP SELLER SHOESTRING

CLINK 78

$25 $78

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

RUSHMORE LONDON

$104 $74

ROOM ONLY

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Central location in London’s King’s Cross, just minutes

LOCATION: Close to the museums of South Kensington and a

from the tube station and St. Pancras International.

two-minute walk from Earl’s Court underground station.

VIBE: Think old courthouse (where The Clash once stood trial)

VIBE: A Victorian townhouse with 22 individually designed rooms,

turned funky youth hostel and reformed prison cells for rooms!

all with en suites, in the heart of classy west London.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms • Personal lockers •

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Flat-screen TV •

Bar • Shared kitchen • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception • 10 minutes’ walk to King’s Cross and St. Pancras stations

Restaurant • Bar • Lounge • Conservatory • Laundry • Safety deposit box at front desk • 24-hour reception

LONCLI

LONRUS

- TOP SELLER APARTMENT

HYDE PARK EXECUTIVE FR$98 FR$49 APARTMENTS

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

GLAMPACKER

POINT A LIVERPOOL STREET

$81 $41

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

CLASS ACT

MAMA SHELTER

$151 $76

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Close to Bayswater, Notting

LOCATION: In London’s hip East End, just

LOCATION: Not far from the railway

Hill and Queensway tubes, plus Hyde Park.

by Shoreditch High Street and Brick Lane.

arches bars of Bethnal Green.

VIBE: Beautiful Victorian exterior and

VIBE: Super slick London hotel with all the

VIBE: A home away from home in east

simple yet stylish interiors.

comfort essentials.

London with above or underground rooms.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private apartments and

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Flatscreen

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Films on

suites • Oak wood flooring • Kitchenette • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

TV • In-room safe • Snack bar • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

demand • In-room safe • Minibar • Bar (great cocktails) • Restaurant

EHLON1

EXLON6

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

LONMAM

THE LONDON PASS

$96

1-6 DAYS

INCLUSIONS

FULL DAY

Explore Windsor Castle, an official residence of The Queen, before moving on to discover the ancient monument of Stonehenge. The stones all come from Wales, but how is anyone’s guess. Then, it’s off to Bath, once the playground of 18th-century aristocrats and now a vibrant city. All in all, an impressive day’s sightseeing. INCLUSIONS

Departs: Daily Meals: Not included Transport: Transport option available. Ask for details Includes: Access to 80+ attractions, hop-on hop-off bus pass, guidebook, discounts and fast-track at selected attractions Tour Code: LONLON

Departs: Daily Meals: Packed lunch included Transport: All transport included Includes: Entry to Windsor Castle, Roman Baths, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, St. George’s Chapel and Stonehenge included Tour Code: LONWBS

LONDON EXPLORER PRICE FR $249

$143

DURATION 3 OR 4 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Short Trips AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE LONDON - LONDON

GROUP LEADER: Unescorted INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: 3-Choice London Explorer Pass, day trip to Windsor, Bath & Stonehenge (4-day option only) ACCOMMODATION: Royal National Hotel (single, twin or triple-share, 2 or 4 nts) MEALS: 2 or 3 breakfasts DEPARTS: Daily SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

England’s crazy capital can be a bit confusing if you’re new in town. Skip the days of fumbling with maps, catching wrong trains and accidentally eating at all the wrong places with this nifty two or three-night explorer bundle, complete with awesome accommodation. On top of daily breakfasts, you’ll also get a 3-Choice London Explorer Pass for entry into three out of 25 of London’s top attractions. The four-day option also includes a day trip to Windsor, Bath and Stonehenge. Tour Code: COM3LPR/COM5LPR

BIG BUS TOURS PRICE FR $35

DURATION FULL DAY

AGE GROUP: All ages GROUP LEADER: Bus driver, local guide

ROUTE LONDON - LONDON

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Big Bus ticket, guided walking tour, one-way river cruise between Westminster and the Tower of London MEALS: Not included DEPARTS: Daily

See London’s biggest attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, from an open-top bus. This classic one-day ticket includes a guided walking tour as well as a single river cruise between Westminster and the Tower of London. There are over 40 conveniently located stops around the city, plus you can explore at your own pace thanks to the flexible hop-on hop-off pass.

Tour Code: LONBIG/LONBIG2

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

EUROPE

Get a hold of a one, two, three or six-day pass for access to over 80 of London’s most famous attractions, museums and historical buildings. Avoid the queues and be privy to special discounts (up to 65%) at restaurants, theatres and shops. You can also choose a transport option to make things even easier.

WINDSOR, BATH & STONEHENGE

PARIS FEE L THE LOU VRE

EUROPE

The City of Light has been a favourite with loved-up beaus for a while now. But there’s always a way to get around those smooching couples clogging up the Eiffel Tower queue (if you don’t know what we’re talking about, it’s probably you - please move). It goes without saying that culture is practically on tap, but there are some corking festivals to go with it. Summer brings the Fête de la Musique and man-made beaches along the Seine.

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR PARIS

$42 $55

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

HOTEL VICTORIA

$96 $54

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Situated 15 minutes away from Gare du Nord and close

LOCATION: Situated in the lively 9th arrondissement, this hotel is

to Canal St. Martin. The views of Sacre Coeur are a 30-minute stroll.

only two kilometres from the Moulin Rouge and Palais Royal.

VIBE: This once-derelict building is now home to stylish rooms and

VIBE: Think modern elegance, block colours and peaceful rooms.

a lively atmosphere. A rooftop terrace puts this hostel a step above.

The perfect place to relax in the midst of the action.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed or female-only dorms • Private rooms •

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Flatscreen TV • Luggage storage •

Lockers • Basement bar with DJs • Rooftop terrace • Restaurant • Moroccan-style Lounge area • Laundry • 24-hour reception

Daily housekeeping • Lift • Lounge area • Small patio-style garden • Parking available • 24-hour reception

THPAGE

PARGAR

THE PARIS PASS

$164

2-6 DAYS

A-LIST

AMASTAN PARIS

$248 $137

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Just off of Champs-Élysées, the neighbourhood is home

to the Arc de Triomphe, Pont Alexandre II and world-class shopping. VIBE: This clean-cut boutique hotel is modern and minimalist.

There’s even a small gallery space for temporary art exhibitions. HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Bar •

Garden • Art gallery space • Terrace • Lift • Luggage storage • 24hour reception • Shuttle service to/from airport THPAR2

See Paris’ top sights at your own pace with this awesome pass giving you entry to over 60 attractions. Paris is home to so many galleries and museums that you’ll be spoilt for choice. It includes unlimited metro travel, a complimentary guide book, a one-day hop-on hop-off bus tour plus a wine tasting experience. Choose from two, four or six days to make the most of your trip. INCLUSIONS

Departs: Daily Transport: Unlimited metro travel, hop-on-hop-off bus Tour Code: PARPAS

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

AMSTERDAM AMS TER -DAYUM MM N

EUROPE

The cool kid of Europe, Amsterdam has culture and quirk in equal measure. Alongside red light districts, Heineken breweries and a wealth of cafés, there are also bikes galore, more canals than Venice, beautiful parks and thousands of museums documenting everything from sex to Anne Frank. And all those houseboats on the canals? They’re home to shops, museums and there’s even one dedicated to cats! A ‘Dam treat we say...

- TOP SELLER SHOESTRING

HANS BRINKER HOSTEL

$27 $37

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

GLAMPACKER

CLINK NOORD

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

$39 $52

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Nestled between the canals of Amsterdam, an easy

LOCATION: Situated in the super cool, up-and-coming Noord

ten-minute walk to the infamous Red Light District.

district, a free, five-minute ferry from Amsterdam Centraal Station.

VIBE: Funky hostel with affordable rooms and a social atmosphere.

VIBE: Live music and DJs, communal areas and a library make this

Get to know other travellers over a happy hour beer in the cool bar.

former 1920s laboratory a great place to meet fellow travellers.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms • All rooms en suite •

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed and female-only dorms • Private rooms • Air

Bar • Basement club • Restaurant • Café • Garden • Dining room • TV lounge • Lift • Luggage storage • Laundry • 24-hour reception

con • Bar • Restaurant • Café • Common room • Shared kitchen • Library • Lift • Lockers • Laundry • 24-hour reception

AMSHAN

AMSNOO

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

HOTEL NOT HOTEL

$65 $33

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

NADIA HOTEL

ROOM ONLY

$98 $63

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Perched just off of Kinkerstraat, an area known for its

LOCATION: Situated beside Keizergracht Canal, just a few

trendy restaurants and shops. Vondelpark is a 20-minute walk away.

minutes’ walk from the Anne Frank House and Dam Square.

VIBE: A room is not a room - it's an exhibition art space made

VIBE: Once an art gallery, the Nadia is now a friendly family-run

by Collaboration-O that you happen to sleep in. Seriously artsy.

hotel that holds the warm charm of a rustic village lost in time.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Private and shared bathrooms

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • In-room safe • TV • Laundry • Free

• Bar • Outdoor terrace• Room service • Library • Bike rental • 24-hour reception • Parking available

welcome drink on arrival • ATM • Daily housekeeping • Bike rental (at extra cost) • 24-hour reception

EXAMS4

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

AMSNAD

BERLIN LEA RNI NG THE BER -LIN GO

EUROPE

Another perpetual topper of the Europe cool list, Berlin is sure making up for lost time. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the city has grown into a quirky, artistic and rebellious player on the world stage. Famed for its cool bars, boutiques and galleries (not forgetting its ruthless nightlife) it’s also a historical heavyweight where sobering memorials and museums take centre stage. Chow down on currywurst and don your explorer’s hat.

SHOESTRING/GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR MITTE AND PRENZLAUER BERG

$18 $35

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

SHOESTRING

PLUS BERLIN

$27 $46

FR FR

ROOM ONLY

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Two properties! One in Mitte, right at the heart of the

LOCATION: Friedrichshain, Berlin’s artsy district. Only a three-

city. The other in Prenzlauer Berg, in trendsetter East Berlin.

minute walk to the East Side Gallery and Berlin’s best dance clubs.

VIBE: Generator Mitte soaks up the artsy atmosphere of nearby

VIBE: Modern hostel-come-hotel in an historic school building.

Hackescher Markt. For Prenzlauer Berg, think edgy party spot.

The social atmosphere makes it great for meeting other travellers.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms • Personal lockers •

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed or female-only dorms • Private rooms • Bar

Common room • Outdoor terrace • Bar • Restaurant • Barbecue area • Café • ATM • 24-hour reception

• Restaurant • Indoor pool • Sauna • Outdoor terrace • Free yoga (Thursdays) • Games room • ATM • Bike rental

EXMITT / EHPREN

BERLIN PASS

BERPLU

$117

2-3 DAYS

WITHLOCALS: BIKE THE BERLIN WALL

$33

HALF DAY

CLASS ACT

HOTEL INDIGO BERLIN FR$118 FR$59 ALEXANDERPLATZ

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: The trendy Mitte District, a ten-

minute walk from Alexanderplatz Square. VIBE: Expect boutique-style rooms and

fancy toiletries. Travel-size you say... HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con •

Rain shower • Bar • Restaurant • Outdoor terrace • Gym • Luggage storage

Available as a two or three-day option, this pass gives you access to the whole city without spending an extra penny. With access to over 50 attractions including the Jewish Museum, the Neue National Gallery and the Berlin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, you can also opt to add on unlimited use of public transport between Zones A, B and C.

Berlin is chock-a-block full of history and nowhere is this more evident than along the route of the famous Berlin Wall. Bike past the spots that East Berliners tried to use to escape, and stop off at the terrifying Kieler Eck command tower, the Ghost Station, the Holocaust Museum and the iconic Brandenburg Gate.

BERPAS

BERWALL

EHBER4

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

BARCELONA & THE BEACHES TOO GAU DÍ TO BE TRU E?

EUROPE

Spain’s most prosperous region, Catalonia is currently paving its way towards total independence. Whether it comes, we’ll have to wait and see. But with Barca on the map, we’re not betting against its potential! As Las Ramblas oozes with sangria, mojitos and mouthwatering tapas, Gaudí’s fabled architecture sets the city’s skyline apart from any other. With this much on, it’s sure to keep you welloiled from morning ‘til… well, the next morning.

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR BARCELONA

$28 $51

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

CLASS ACT

ACTA MIMIC

$67 $34

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: The trendy Gràcia district, less than 20 minutes’ walk

LOCATION: Just off of Las Ramblas, a stroll by the ocean is minutes

from La Sagrada Família and Gaudí’s iconic Casa Batlló apartments.

away. Good transport connections make all of Barca accessible.

VIBE: An eclectic mix of designs (think concrete floors, oversized

VIBE: Style is subjective, so pick from room themes such as 19th-

birdcages, hundreds of lanterns), topped off with lots of orange.

century France, backstage cabaret, 60s USA and African savannah.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed and female-only dorms • Private rooms •

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Restaurant • Terrace •

Lockers • Bar • Café • Rooftop terrace • Shared TV lounge • Games room • Bicycle rental • 24-hour reception

Lounge • Rooftop solarium • 24-hour reception • Lift • Parking available • Electric bicycles for rent

EHBCN6

EHBCN3

WITHLOCALS: BARCELONA’S FR$55 HALF DAY FAVOURITE FOOD TOUR

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR MADRID, MADRID

$31 $62

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

Lick the plate clean on this trip around the foodie scene of Barcelona with ten delicious tastings from carefully selected hosts, showcasing authentic and unique Spanish flavours. Start your journey at a local bar with creamy croquetas and Iberian ham before moving on to the drinks and the churros. Bring an appetite! BCNFAV

CLASS ACT

CORTEZO HOTEL, MADRID

$80 $69

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: In the middle of everything,

LOCATION: In the heart of the city, mere

just off Grand Via (aka Spanish Broadway).

metres from Puerta del Sol.

VIBE: A backpacker favourite thanks to its

VIBE: A relaxed hotel with a rooftop

cool rooftop bar and spacious social areas.

terrace offering incredible city views.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Shared

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Suites • Air

dorms • Air con • Bar • Restaurant • Café • Rooftop terrace • Luggage storage

con • In-room safe • Rooftop terrace • Bar • Gym • Laundry • Luggage storage

EXMAGE

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

EHMAD2

S T A T R A V E L

EUROPE

Italy LOCAL LIVING

GE 10

TAKE IT SLOW

ILI

You won't move around much on a Local Living trip, but considering the possible settings - Tuscany, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, to name just a few why would you want to?! The centrepiece of each trip is a charming and unique home base, carefully selected to provide you with a relaxed atmosphere and an authentic feel for the region you're in. These aren't hotels. We're talking Italian agriturismos, medieval houses and organic lemon farms. Best of all? You'll only have to unpack once!

ELIGIB

U ni que Ac c om m o d ati o n

E PA

V E L T R A

Forget about the jetset mentality for just a second. Local Living trips are designed for travellers who don't want to rush around Europe at breakneck speed, ticking off sights and countries from a checklist. Local Living trips are for those who prefer to slip slowly into a destination and let it seep under their skin. These trips open up some of Europe's most memorable places, allowing you to stay among the locals, set your own agenda and be a part of everyday life in your new favourite place.

S T A

Taki ng i t Slo w

When you're always on the move, there's little time to really get to know a place. Local Living holidays are designed to do just that. Staying in authentic country homes, farmhouses, agriturismos and characterful apartments, you'll get close to the land and its people while discovering the local culture through daily activities like hiking, cycling, vineyard visits, language classes or cooking demos. Instead of living out of a suitcase, you'll actually get to unpack! You'll also have full control of your timetable, but with the added safety blanket bonus of a local Chief Experience Officer. RU

LES APP

, LY

Yo ur Ne w B e st Fr ie n d

Fo o d & D in in g

Just like on a regular tour with G Adventures you'll benefit from having a CEO (that's a Chief Experience Officer) to help with any questions you might have. He or she will know your chosen region inside out and can help with translations, bike rental, restaurant recommendations, day trips and just about anything else you need.

Your CEO will equip you with a starter kit of breakfast essentials and local delicacies when you arrive. Dine in, dine out, it's up to you. On almost every trip you'll also have the chance to sit down to a delicious feature meal experience with a local guest.

C o m p l e t e ly Fl e x ib l e Local Living trips are intentionally kept loose and open. Your CEO will have a cheat sheet of ideas, sights, sporting activities and local markets (and will know how to get you to each place), but essentially you're free to do as much or as little as you want.

UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION

FLEXIBLE

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER

FOOD & DINING

$1,749

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

7 DAYS

E PA Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

After a G for Good migrant-led tour of Naples and a trip to Pompeii, transfer to the Amalfi Coast where you’ll spend six nights at a converted 16th-century monastery, surrounded by lemon groves and vineyards. During your stay, hike scenic coastal paths, tuck into tasty home-cooked meals and learn how to make authentic pizza. INCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS

Departs: Selected Sat (Apr-Oct) Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt), agriturismo (6 nts) Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners Activities: G for Good Migrantour walk, Pompeii guided tour, Naples orientation walk, Amalfi and Ravello visits, pre-dinner cooking demos Tour Code: GAEIAL

Departs: Selected Sundays Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt), agriturismo (5 nts) Meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners Activities: G for Good Migrantour walk, Pompeii guided tour, Walk of the Gods hike, Naples orientation walk, limoncello and mozzarella-making Tour Code: GAEIAW

TUSCANY SAN GIMIGNANO LOCAL LIVING

COASTAL TUSCANY LOCAL LIVING

LES APP

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Centred in medieval San Gimignano, this experience places you in the heart of Tuscany. Whip up authentic Italian dishes during a cooking class, sample local wine and devour a traditional meal cooked by your charming host, Ugo. Work off all that deliciousness with countryside strolls and sightseeing in Rome, Siena and Florence. INCLUSIONS

7 DAYS

E PA Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Spend a week living the Italian dream at a Tuscan villa in Capalbio, a well-preserved medieval town on the coast. You’ll get to sample the region’s liquors and olive oil, visit historic villages and whip up traditional cuisine in a cooking class. If that doesn’t get you feeling like a local, then you can opt to go snorkelling, hiking or cycling. INCLUSIONS

Departs: Selected Sun (May-Sep) Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt), apartment in local home (5 nts) Meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 dinners Activities: Wine tasting, cooking class, San Gimignano wall walk, countryside walk, day trips to Siena & Florence, orientation walks in Rome, San Gimignano & Siena Tour Code: GAEIGL

Departs: Selected Sat (May-Sep) Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt), agriturismo/ guesthouse (5 nts) Meals: 6 breakfasts, 3 dinners Activities: G for Good Migrantour walk in Rome, olive oil tasting, Tuscan cooking class and liquor tasting, Capalbio orientation walk, Monte Argentario day trip Tour Code: GAEIRC

SORRENTO LOCAL LIVING PRICE FR $1,799

$1,129

, LY

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

7 DAYS

GE 10

$1,349

DURATION 7 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Local Living AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE NAPLES - NAPLES

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer

(CEO), local guide GROUP SIZE: Max 12, Avg 8

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Migrantour walk, agriturismo tour, pizza and limoncellomaking demos, Pompeii guided tour, Walk of the Gods hike, Isle of Capri visit, Naples and Sorrento orientation walks, scenic boat ride

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Your home for the week is an organic lemon farm in Sorrento, where you’ll enjoy homecooked organic dinners, sweeping sea views and a tour of its lemon groves. Visit the starstudded Isle of Capri, learn how to cook Italy’s most famous dish with a pizza-making demo and hike the Walk of the Gods trail to the coastal towns of Positano and Praiano, returning via a scenic boat trip. Also on the itinerary is a G for Good Migrantour walk in Naples, a trip to the ruins of Pompeii and limoncello tasting. You know, to take the edge off.

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel (1 nt),

agriturismo (5 nts) MEALS: 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners DEPARTS: Selected Sundays (Apr-Oct)

Tour Code: GAEISO

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

EUROPE

Transfer from Naples to your agriturismo in the picturesque village of Furore, high in the hills above the Amalfi Coast. Live like one of the locals, enjoying pre-dinner cooking demos and delicious homemade meals. Tour the ruins of Pompeii, cruise along the coast from Positano to Amalfi and hike mountain trails. Bellissimo!

$1,599

E PA SE

LES APP

ILI

AMALFI COAST WINTER LOCAL LIVING

ELIGIB

GE 10

8 DAYS

GE 10

AMALFI COAST LOCAL LIVING

ROME ROA MIN G IN ROM E

EUROPE

Italy’s delectable capital has some pretty tasty ingredients for a city getaway, from a past steeped in history and mythology to ancient ruins, tasty food and worldclass art. There are pizzerias and gelaterias aplenty (and pretty much all worth it), marble sculptures, soaring basilicas and Baroque churches, plus The Vatican is just a stone’s throw away. Lap up the seductive city with a peoplewatching session in one of the sun-soaked piazzas.

ROCK SOLID

NARDIZZI ROME

$52 $26

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

PALLADIUM PALACE

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Central spot just 15 minutes from Termini Station,

$96 $57

LOCATION: Close to Termini Station, and within walking distance

and the top attractions, the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.

to the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps.

VIBE: A small hotel with comfy rooms. No frills, but everything

VIBE: Simple interior but everything you need for a comfy stay.

you need, plus a terrace complete with a bar - salute!

Don’t forget to enjoy a drink on the rooftop bar.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Satellite

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Soundproof rooms • Satellite TV

TV • Daily housekeeping • Bar • Terrace • Central location • Tour desk • 24-hour reception STAY 3 PAY 2: SELECTED DATES (BLACKOUT DATES APPLY). PLEASE ASK YOUR TRAVEL EXPERT FOR MORE DETAILS

• Air con • Rooftop Bar • Gym • Sauna • Express check-in/checkout • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception ROMPAL

ROMNAR

NAPLES & POMPEII FROM ROME

$117

FULL DAY

WITHLOCALS: HIGHLIGHTS FR$24 & HIDDEN GEMS OF ROME HALF DAY

GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR ROME

$36 $49

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: In the Esquilino District, a

short walk from the Colosseum. VIBE: Topping the backpackers’ best-of list,

this is one of the coolest hostels around. HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private

rooms • Air con • Bar • Lounge • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

Foodies and history buffs listen up. This day trip includes a visit to Pompeii’s ruins and a walking tour of Naples, home of the pizza. Learn about the volcanic eruption that destroyed the UNESCO-listed site, then explore Naples’ narrow streets and fresco-filled museums. You’ll also enjoy an authentic lunch of (you guessed it) pizza! ROMNPR

THROME

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

It’s easy to get caught up in touristy Rome, so why not see it with a local? This tour combines the popular with the one-offs. See the Campo di Fiori Market, visit the city’s oldest bakery, a century-old bookshop, a hidden church and a street so small it’s not even marked on the maps. Plus, food tastings are all included! ROMHID

FLORENCE AND THE FLY ING MAC HIN E

SHOESTRING

PLUS FLORENCE, FLORENCE

$24 $36

DORM

TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

KURSAAL & AUSONIA, FLORENCE

ROOM ONLY

$65 $36

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

EUROPE

A tempting antipasti of art and culture, Firenze is your ticket to a Renaissance throwback. Once home to the likes of Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Donatello (Raphael was in Rome, busy ruining our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles joke), there are plenty of masterpieces knocking about. Spend time in the monumental Uffizi Gallery, head to the Duomo cathedral then cool off with a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio. Gelato in-hand, obviously.

ROCK SOLID

CORONA D’ITALIA, FLORENCE

$80 $46

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Less than 15 minutes’ walk

LOCATION: Just a few steps from the

LOCATION: 200 metres from Santa Maria

from the city’s main train station.

Mercato Centrale and Piazza del Duomo.

Novella Station, a short walk to the Uffizi.

VIBE: Social atmosphere with plenty to

VIBE: A homely spot with simple rooms, a

VIBE: 19th-century palazzo decorated with

keep you busy between sightseeing trips.

cosy atmosphere and welcoming staff.

Florentine terracotta and Tuscan marble.

HIGHLIGHTS: Shared dorms • Private

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con •

rooms • Indoor pool • Outdoor pool • Bar • Restaurant • Terrace • Gym • Spa • Sauna

Bar • Breakfast room • Library • Laundry • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

In-room safe • Bar • Lounge • Laundry • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

25% DISCOUNT: 4JAN20-27DEC20 (5 NIGHT MINIMUM STAY)

FLRPEL

FLRKUR

GRAPE ESCAPE

STAY 4 PAY 3: SELECTED DATES

FLRCOR

$150

FULL DAY

A-LIST

HOTEL HOME FLORENCE

$237 $103

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: In the highly social Santa Croce

area overlooking the Arno. VIBE: A boutique hotel and a vision of

white and gold. No. Dirty. Shoes. HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Balconies •

Air con • In-room safe • Outdoor terrace • Luggage storage • Daily housekeeping EHFLR1

Get grape-savvy with two tasting sessions in the Chianti countryside. Try seven types of wine, local truffle oil and balsamic vinegar on guided vineyard and cellar tours, and learn how to recognise different flavours like a true connoisseur. Cleanse your palate with some world-class gelato at medieval San Gimignano. FLRGRA

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

VENICE GON DOL A WIT H THE WIN D

EUROPE

For a city held above water by wooden sticks, Venice is doing pretty well for itself. Expect to see striped gondoliers gliding past gold-covered basilicas and ornately decorated bridges. There’s also high fashion, fine dining, street performers and the biannual international arts festival, the Biennale. Aside from Piazza San Marco’s evident pomp, smaller piazzas provide welcome respite from the crowds. Good coffee included.

GLAMPACKER

ANDA HOSTEL, VENICE

$19 $82

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR VENICE, VENICE

$25 $87

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

PANTALON HOTEL, VENICE

$77 $54

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Set in Mestre, the urban area

LOCATION: The island of Giudecca, minutes

LOCATION: In the Dorsoduro District, near

of mainland Venice, and close to the station.

from St. Mark’s Square by water bus.

to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

VIBE: New, spacious and clean hostel,

VIBE: Housed riverside in a 200-year-old

VIBE: The rooftop terrace of this charming

featuring cool industrial-style interiors.

Venetian Palazzo.

hotel offers views of the Basilica dei Frari.

HIGHLIGHTS: Dorms • Private rooms

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed or female-only dorms

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con

• Air con • Lockers • Terrace • Bar • Shared kitchen • Library • TV lounge

• Private rooms • Air con • Restaurant • Bar • Lockers • Luggage storage

• Rooftop terrace • Luggage storage • Concierge service • 24-hour reception

VENAND

THVEGE

STAY 4 PAY 3: 02JAN20–06JAN20, 07FEB20–13FEB20, 26FEB20–31MAR20, 01JUL20–31AUG20. BOOK BY 31OCT20

ISLAND HOPPING PRIVATE TOUR

$75 $44

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

JOLLY CAMPING IN TOWN, VENICE

$17 $20

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Only a short walk from Saint

LOCATION: Nine kilometres outside Venice,

Mark’s Square over a cute canal.

a ten-minute bus ride from Piazzale Roma.

VIBE: Charming Venetian residence that

VIBE: Easy-going campsite with space to

once belonged to an aristocratic family.

sunbathe, swim and socialise.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air Con

HIGHLIGHTS: Dorms • Bungalows or

• Soundproofed rooms • Bar • Terrace • Tour desk • 24-hour reception

mobile homes • Air con • Outdoor pool • Bar • Restaurant • Nightclub

EHVCE1

$86

FULL DAY

SHOESTRING

CLASS ACT

CA’ DEI CONTI HOTEL, VENICE

VCEPAN

STAY 4 PAY 3: 04JAN20–20FEB20, 24FEB20–09APR20, 13APR20–28MAY20, 01OCT20–28DEC20

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

VCEJOL

Visit three small islands located near Venice on a half-day tour led by your own private guide. Discover the natural beauty and artisan traditions of Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano as you cruise between the islands and visit fisherman towns, a glassmaking studio, and picturesque destinations such as Santa Caterina’s Church. VIVCE2

ATHENS & THE GREEK ISLANDS GO BIG OR GO HOM ER

GLAMPACKER

ATHENSTYLE HOSTEL, ATHENS

$30 $62

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

CLASS ACT

FRESH HOTEL, ATHENS

ROOM ONLY

$126 $76

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

EUROPE

Athens has seen its fair share of transformations over the years, and not all of them have been of the shiny, glamorous kind. But thanks to the 2004 Olympics, 21st-century Athens ouzos charm. Packed with museums and ancient sites, there’s plenty to Greek out over. For a tahini bit of paradise, make for the islands. You won’t have time to see them all (there’s over 6,000), but you’re sure to get your fill of cheese, olive oil, wine, sunshine, whitewashed fishing villages, and did we mention cheese?

CLASS ACT

ACHILLEAS HOTEL, ATHENS

$110 $94

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Located in the Psiri District,

LOCATION: Five minutes’ walk from both

LOCATION: In the heart of Athens just a

just beneath the mighty Acropolis.

tram and metro stations in Psiri District.

few steps from Syntagma Square.

VIBE: Environmentally friendly hostel with

VIBE: A design-led hotel with sleek,

VIBE: Think relaxation in sleek rooms and

Acropolis views from the rooftop bar.

colourful interiors and a fab rooftop pool.

all-new renovations giving it a fresh feel.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Restaurant

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Flatscreen

rooms • Lockers • Rooftop terrace • Bar • Restaurant • Games room • Art exhibition

• Bar • Rooftop pool (seasonal) • Terrace • Sauna • Gym • Bike hire

TV • Buffet breakfast • Bar • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

ATHSTY

ATHFRE

ATHACH

ROCK SOLID

NEW HAROULA HOTEL, SANTORINI

$138 $78

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

ARTEMIS HOTEL, MYKONOS

$90 $57

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: In Fira, just metres from the main square. And don’t be

LOCATION: Situated right next to the beach in the village of Agios

fooled! It may seem quiet, but it’s walking distance from the clubs.

Stefanos with restaurants and shops nearby.

VIBE: Traditionally styled hotel with an outdoor pool surrounded

VIBE: Combining Greek hospitality with traditional decor, this

by bougainvilleas - the epitome of Santorini. Get the best of both worlds with peaceful surroundings and handy access to the nightlife.

quaint family-run hotel features an outdoor breakfast and bar area with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Private balconies • Air con

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms with balcony • Air con • Satellite TV

• Outdoor pool (seasonal) • Pool bar • TV Lounge • Garden • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception • Free off-site parking

• Terrace • Coffee shop • Bar • Snack bar • Beach • Umbrellas and sun beds (extra charge) • ATM THOULA

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

JMKART

SCANDINAVIA & RUSSIA ABS OLU TELY SCA NDI -LO US

EUROPE

From frozen wastelands to urban capitals, the Scandi lands are home to Europe’s most content people. Meet indigenous reindeer herders in Sweden, soak up the midnight sun in Finnish saunas and cross fortress-like fjords in Norway. Sitting to the east is the gargantuan land mass of Russia. History buffs should make Moscow their first stop, while St. Petersburg’s extravagant churches, palaces and museums make it a cultural mecca.

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR COPENHAGEN

$35 $55

DORM

TWIN/ DOUBLE

GLAMPACKER

GENERATOR STOCKHOLM

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

$26 $46

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Right in the centre of the city, just off the cobbled

LOCATION: Located on Torsgatan, just 500 metres from Central

Kongens Nytorv Square and near the bars on Nyhavn.

Station and the city centre.

VIBE: Fun accommodation with six floors of playful interiors and a

VIBE: Relatively new on the scene, with plenty of artistic spaces

funky outdoor terrace. Game of boules anyone?

and social hangouts to appeal to both locals and travellers.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms • Bar • Restaurant •

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms • Personal lockers •

Café • Lounge • Large outdoor terrace • Petanque court • Chill-out areas • Stylish Scandinavian interiors

Bar • Restaurant • Café • Lounge • Live music • Laundry • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

EXCOGE

EHSTGE

A-LIST

CLASS ACT

SAGA POSHTEL, OSLO

$49 $51

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

HOTEL METROPOL, MOSCOW

$314 $159

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

CLASS ACT

DOMINA HOTEL, ST PETERSBURG

$174 $87

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: In the heart of Oslo with bars

LOCATION: A quick walk to the Red Square,

LOCATION: Facing the Moika River, a two-

and landmarks on the doorstep.

Kremlin and Bolshoi Theatre.

minute walk from St. Isaac’s Cathedral

VIBE: The clue is in the name! A chic lobby

VIBE: A renowned Moscow hotel, offering

VIBE: Straight out of a Wes Anderson film,

gives way to minimalist dorms and rooms.

sumptuous rooms and a top-end restaurant.

bursting colour and antique-style furniture.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • In-room

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-

rooms • Shared kitchen • Restaurant • TV lounge • Laundry • 24-hour reception

safe • Bar • Restaurant • Pool • Sauna • Gym • Beauty salon • 24-hour front desk

room safe • Bar • Restaurant • Gym • Spa • 24-hour room service • Free parking

10% PERCENT OFF AT ATTACHED RESTAURANT

EHMOW1

EHVCE1

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

EXSTP1

REYKJAVÍK COLOUR & CON TRA STS

GLAMPACKER

KEX HOSTEL, REYKJAVÍK

$50 $58

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

EUROPE

Flooded with 22 hours of light every day during summer and just a few hours in winter, the impulsive soul of quirky and effervescent Reykjavík is one you’ll want to visit again and again. Gawp at the swirling shades of cloudy green that dance through the sky on a Winter evening (also known as the Aurora Borealis), bathe in one of its geothermal pools and hit a Friday night runtur (bar crawl) around some of its notorious nightclubs. Skál!

APARTMENT

APARTMENT K, REYKJAVÍK

ROOM ONLY

$185 $93

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Minutes from the famous Sun Voyager statue and

LOCATION: On the fringe of the trendy 101 district, just off from

Harpa Concert Hall on foot, with gorgeous views across the bay.

Laugavegur, Reykjavík's main shopping street.

VIBE: Hipster, social hostel housed in an old biscuit factory (Kex

VIBE: Screams millennial hipster to a tee and we love it. Spacious

is Icelandic for biscuit) with craft beer and jazz nights regularly.

enough for socialising, with great self-catering facilities.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed or female-only dorms • Private rooms •

HIGHLIGHTS: Apartments • Air con • Fully-equipped kitchen • 24-

Gastro pub • Shared kitchen • Heated outdoor patio • Lounge • Gym • Bike rental • Beauty salon • Library • Laundry

hour reception • Car and bike rental • Luggage storage • Laundry • Airport shuttle • Express check-in and check-out

EXREK3

BLUE LAGOON

$160

HALF DAY

No visit to Iceland would be complete without a trip to famous geothermal spa; the Blue Lagoon. Set in a lava field (this is Iceland after all), melt away your stress in the milky blue/green waters or under a waterfall. Admission, return transfers, silica mud mask and algae mask, one drink and the use of a towel are included. REKBLC

GOLDEN CIRCLE

EXREK2

$100

FULL DAY

Pack a stash of ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ and get ready to feel the full force of nature. From the gushing Strokkur geyser, travel on to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall and Þingvellir National Park, where the tectonic plates are ripping apart at a rate of centimetres a year. Round off your tour with a visit to the idyllic Friðheimar farm. REKGOC

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

WHALE WATCHING

$125

HALF DAY

Get up close and personal with the largest animals on earth on this unmissable Icelandic experience. With a success rate of 92%, chances are you’ll be rewarded with sightings of the minke whales common to the area. No two trips are the same, and if you’re lucky, you may also spot pods of orcas, dolphins and humpback whales. REKWHA

LEBANON MOROCCO

IRAQ

TUNISIA

MARRAKECH

JORDAN

CAIRO

WESTERN SAHARA

IRAN

ISRAEL

ALGERIA

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES QATAR

VALLEY OF THE KINGS

LIBYA

LUXOR

SAUDI ARABIA

EGYPT

MAURITANIA

OMAN MALI NIGER

DAKAR THE GAMBIA

SUDAN

BURKINA FASO GUINEA

GUINEA-BISSAU

CONAKRY

NIGERIA

DJIBOUTI

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

GHANA

MONROVIA ABIDJAN

CAMEROON

TOGO

DIRE DAWA

ADDIS ABABA

KUMASI LIBERIA

GONDAR

BENIN CÔTE D’IVOIRE

SIERRA LEONE

YEMEN

ERITREA

CHAD

SENEGAL

ETHIOPIA

SOUTH SUDAN

SOMALIA UGANDA

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

GABON

KENYA

KAMPALA

NAIROBI

RWANDA

MT. KILIMANJARO

BURUNDI

CONGO

ARUSHA TANZANIA

SEYCHELLES

ZANZIBAR DAR ES SALAAM

SOUTH LUANGWA N.P.

ANGOLA

MOZAMBIQUE ZAMBIA MALAWI

LUSAKA VICTORIA FALLS

CHOBE N.P.

SWAKOPMUND

ANTANANARIVO

OKAVANGO DELTA

NAMIBIA

WINDHOEK

BOTSWANA

KRUGER N.P. MAPUTO JOHANNESBURG

FISH RIVER CANYON

LESOTHO

DURBAN SOUTH AFRICA

CAPE TOWN

MADAGASCAR

ZIMBABWE

PORT ELIZABETH

SWAZILAND

MAURITIUS REUNION

WE LOVE >>>>> KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA

Home to over 12,000 elephants, 27,000 buffalo and 1,000 leopards, Kruger is one of the world's most loved game reserves. See more of Kruger National Park on pages 80, 82 & 83.

BEACHES, ZANZIBAR MALDIVES

Pole pole, meaning ‘slowly’ in Swahili, isn’t just a saying, it’s a way of life in this blissed-out island paradise. See more of Zanzibar on pages 84.

MAASAI CULTURE, KENYA

Despite western cultural influences, the Maasai people have managed to hold on to their traditional ways of life. See more of Kenya on pages 84.

PENGUIN COLONY, SOUTH AFRICA

The world-famous Boulders Penguin Colony is home to a whopping 3,000 African waddlers, a short distance from seaside Simons Town. See more of South Africa on pages 7879, 81-83.

SAND DUNES, NAMIBIA

The Namibian National anthem translates as Land of the Brave. An ode to all those who go sandboarding? We think so. See more of Namibia on pages 78 & 81.

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

CAPE & DUNES SOUTHBOUND: DESERT CAMPING & SAFARI DRIVES SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE WINDHOEK - CAPE TOWN

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

PRICE FR $1,849

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg 18

E PA

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

, LY

Apr

LES APP

Mar

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

ILI

Feb

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

04 01 07 04 02 13 04 01 05 03 07 12 02 11 08 14 18 09 20 18 15 12 17 14 26 09 25 22 21 25 16 27 25 29 19 24 28 16 29 28 23 31 23 30

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $179

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

NAMIB DESERT

CAPE TOWN

Characterised by a salt pan so large it can be seen from space, Etosha is a hub for wildlife enthusiasts.

This serene red desert stretches out so vast, it’ll make you feel like you’re the last one left on earth.

Not only a thriving capital and seaside hotspot, Cape Town is home to a colony of penguin species!

DAYS 1-4 Windhoek / Waterberg Plateau / Etosha National Park

• Big 5 safari in Etosha National Park • Entry to Sossusvlei dunes, Fish River Canyon and Spitzkoppe • Damaraland Living Museum visit • G for Good Penduka Village Restaurant • G for Good !Khwa ttu San Culture Centre

Meet the group in Windhoek, then it’s off to the G for Good Penduka Village Restaurant and Shop. This initiative employs local vulnerable women, helping them develop skills in textiles, beading and pottery. After picking up a handmade craft, continue to Waterberg Plateau and opt to tackle an afternoon hike. Leave for Etosha National Park on Day 3 to enjoy a natural wonderland of waterholes, salt pans and 114 species of mammals (Big 5, too!). You might even spot a protruding horn from afar... Etosha has the most black rhino in the world! (3B, 3L, 3D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

DAYS 5-7 Spitzkoppe / Swakopmund Have a curiosity for geological phenomenons? You’ll love Spitzkoppe’s dramatic rock formations. On Day 8, travel south to the granite peaks of Spitzkoppe and explore the winding walking trails. After dusting off those hiking boots, it’s time to visit the coastal region of Swakopmund and get involved in some adrenalin-inducing activities such as sandboarding or skydiving. This quaint seaside city was actually founded by German settlers, so expect to see some German influence over rows of pastel-coloured buildings. (2B, 2L, D)

DAYS 8-10 Namib Desert / Fish River Canyon On Day 8, set off for the edge of the Namib Desert - speculated to be the world’s oldest desert - where you’ll camp overnight under the glistening night sky. The following day will see a day full of desert exploration, travelling to the Sesriem Canyon and tall red dunes of Sossusvlei. Snag your photo op atop the burning red Dune 45, a star dune named so as it is located 45 kilometres from the nearby settlement of Sesriem. Then, travel to Fish River Canyon on Day 10 and marvel at the world’s second-biggest canyon in all its glory. (3B, 3L, 3D)

Reverse your trip Cape & Dunes Northbound: Wildlife & Starry Night Skies (13 days, Cape Town - Windhoek) (GADADO) Fr $1,749 Extend your trip Southern Africa Northbound: Dunes, Deltas & Falls (21 days, Cape Town - Livingstone) (GADCF) Fr $2,849

DAYS 11-14 Orange River / Cederberg / Cape Town Cross the border into South Africa to your campsite at the scenic Orange River. Contrary to the popular belief, this river is not actually named after the stunning colour of the water that glows during sunset... it was actually a Dutch navigator who named the river after the Dutch prince, William of Orange. Feeling relaxed after a peaceful canoe ride, travel along the Western Cape the next day and enjoy some beautiful passing scenery of rooibos tea plantations. Continue to Cape Town with a stop at the G for Good Khwa ttu San Culture Centre to learn about its community sustainability programme, and head out for a final night with your group. (4B, 3L, 2D)

Tour Code: GADNDO

A N G O L A

Etosha N.P. Spitzkoppe Swakopmund

Waterberg Plateau

Windhoek

Namib Desert Fish River Canyon Orange River

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Participation camping (8 nts), permanent tented camp (1 nt), multi-share guesthouse (2 nts), bush camping (1 nt), multi-share hostel (1 nt)

12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners

Overland adventure vehicle

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Cederberg

Cape Town

S O U T H A F R I C A

DELTA & FALLS EASTBOUND: BAOBAB TREES & RIVER VIEWS PRICE FR $1,349

ROUTE WINDHOEK - VICTORIA FALLS

DURATION 9 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: 2 Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) as head guide/cook and driver, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg 18

GE 10

DEPARTS: Selected Fridays MY OWN ROOM: Fr $159

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB T

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Wilderness camping & mokoro in the Okavango Delta, free time in Victoria Falls, Dqae Qare San Lodge and Camp, Lusumpuko Women’s Club Lunch, meet with San Bushmen in the Kalahari Desert

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-2 Windhoek / D’Kar

DAYS 5-6 Gweta / Chobe National Park

If you’re already in the area, you will have explored the Namibian capital before your group meeting in the evening of Day 1. The next day, cross the Botswana border at Ghanzi into the Kalahari Desert. Walk with a local San Bushman, opt to learn the indigenous tribe’s wilderness survival skills and bed down at the G for Good Dqae Qare San Lodge. (B, L, D)

Continue to Gweta, near the fascinating Makgadikgadi salt pans, and set up camp under big baobab trees. The pan is a habitat for migrating animals, including wildebeest and zebra. Travel onward to Chobe National Park for an optional open vehicle game drive or boat cruise to see elephants, hippos and crocs. (2B, 2L, D)

DAYS 3-4 Maun / Okavango Delta Spending a night in the town of Maun, you have the opportunity to take a flight over the Okavango Delta. Venture on through the world’s largest inland delta to your remote bush camp. Experience traditional mokoro (dug-out canoe) excursions and fantastic game viewing in this pristine wilderness area. (2B, 2L, D)

Z A M B I A A N G O L A

Victoria Falls

DAYS 7-9 Victoria Falls Have lunch at the G for Good Lusumpuko Women’s Club, a project that helps women with employment and skill development. Cross the Zambezi by ferry into Zimbabwe to witness Victoria Falls. Opt to try white water rafting or canoeing before your departure on Day 9. (2B, L)

Tour Code: GADNFO

Chobe N.P. Okavango Delta Maun N A M I B I A

Gweta

D’Kar

Windhoek B OT S WA N A

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Participation camping (6 nts), bush camp (1 nt), permanent camp (1 nt)

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners

Overland adventure vehicle, safari vehicle, mokoro

MOZAMBIQUE, KRUGER & SWAZI DISCOVERER PRICE FR $2,749

DURATION 13 DAYS

ROUTE JOHANNESBURG - JOHANNESBURG

S O U T H

A F R I C A Okavango Delta Flight Half Day

Fr $120

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)/driver, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 9, Avg 7 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Wildlife walk in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, entry to Bazaruto National Park, traditional dhow safari, Kruger National Park safari DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $599

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Johannesburg / Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary / Maputo After meeting up with the group in Jo’burg, make your first border crossing into enigmatic eSwatini (Swaziland) on Day 2. Search for the Big 5 on a safari drive through Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, then make your second crossing into Mozambique, capital to the Maputo. (2B)

DAYS 4-7 Inhambane / Vilanculos Inhambane, one of Mozambique’s most charming towns, is also your gateway to the beach of Praia do Tofo. Spend the day swimming, surfing, snorkelling or diving and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. From here, gear up for a full-day drive to yet another beach-happy spot in Vilanculos. (4B, L, D)

DAYS 8-10 Bazaruto Island / Xai-Xai

Bazaruto National Park isn’t just known for being a stunner, but also for its flamingos, dolphins and turtles. Get in some seaside camping on an overnight excursion, hike the dunes and explore the aqua reefs of Bazaruto Island. Next up on Day 9, it’s off to Xai-Xai Beach (pronounced ‘shy shy’), close to Limpopo River. (3B, L)

DAYS 11-13 Greater Kruger Area / Johannesburg On the last stretch, Kruger National Park calls for what promises to be an unforgettable safari experience. Keep an eye out for elephants, lions, cheetahs and giraffes, then travel back to Johannesburg on Day 13. (3B, 2D)

Tour Code: GADSMZ

Z I M BA B W E

Bazaruto N.P. Vilanculos M OZ A M B I Q U E

Inhambane

Kruger N.P.

Xai-Xai

Johannesburg

Maputo

E S WAT I N I Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (3 nts), twin or multi-share chalets/bungalows (8 nts), camping (1 nt)

12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Private bus, dhow boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

S O U T H A F R I C A

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

BOTSWANA AND FALLS OVERLAND: WILDLIFE WALKS & SAFARI DRIVES PRICE FR $1,289

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE JOHANNESBURG - VICTORIA FALLS

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: 2 Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) as head cook/driver, local guides

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visit to Lusumpuko Women’s Club, Okavango Delta bush camping & wildlife walk, Khama Rhino Sanctuary drive, mokoro ride DEPARTS:

Selected Saturdays

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $119

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39S)

DAYS 1-2 Johannesburg / Serowe

DAYS 5-6 Gweta / Chobe National Park

Rapidly changing Jo’burg is the vibrant heart of South Africa and where you’ll meet your new group. Hop over the border into Botswana on Day 2 and continue to your campsite at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, a communitybased initiative that protects 30 white and four black rhinos. See some of the sanctuary’s critically endangered residents and camp under starry skies. (B, L, D)

Venture back through reed-lined channels, then journey to Gweta where you’ll camp under the ancient baobab trees. Next up is Chobe National Park, home to one of the world’s largest herds of elephants. As well as these mighty pachyderms, numerous predators and hundreds of bird species are present. (2B, 2L, D)

DAYS 3-4 Maun / Okavango Delta Make for Maun today, opting for a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta’s sprawling grassy plains and swamps. After a guided wildlife walk on Day 4, glide through the watery wilderness by mokoro, keeping an eye out for crocs and hippos, then spend the evening singing and dancing around the campfire with the locals. (2B, 2L, D)

Z A M B I A

Victoria Falls Okavango Delta

DAYS 7-8 Victoria Falls

Maun

Cross into Zimbabwe for lunch at the G for Good Lusumpuko Women’s Club, then travel to Victoria Falls where you’ll get up close (and a little wet) to the ‘smoke that thunders’. Opt to go white water rafting on the Zambezi River before your tour ends on Day 8. (B, L)

Chobe N.P. Z I M BA B W E

Gweta Khama Rhino Sanctuary

B OT S WA N A

S O U T H A F R I C A

Tour Code: GADAJL

Johannesburg

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Participation camping (5 nts), bush camp (1 nt), simple hotel (1 nt)

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners

Overland adventure vehicle, safari vehicle, mokoro

Victoria Falls River Rafting Half Day

PRICE FR $1,229

DURATION 8 DAYS

Fr $130

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

KRUGER, FALLS & ZIMBABWE: MINERAL POOLS & NATIONAL PARKS

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE VICTORIA FALLS - JOHANNESBURG

GROUP LEADER: 2 Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) as head guide & driver, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg 18 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Big 5 safari in Kruger National Park, guided rhino walk and open-vehicle safari in Matobo National Park, traditional dinner and local dancing DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $119

ILI

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg 18

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1 Victoria Falls

DAYS 4-7 Tshipise / Kruger National Park

If you’re ahead of schedule and already set up in Victoria Falls, opt to continue your own explorations of the world’s largest (and likely loudest) waterfall. The more adventurous can tackle white water rafting down the Zambezi or sign up for a bungy jump.

Travel south into the South African wilderness. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers wildlife experiences that rank among the best in Africa (and possibly the world). Search for lions, elephants and rhinos on your full-day safari and make the most of your campsite’s hot springs. Head back to Johannesburg on Day 7 after another safari drive in the big purple Lando. (4B, 4L, 3D)

DAYS 2-3 Matobo National Park Continue on to Zimbabwe’s number one wildlife park, the UNESCO-listed Matobo National Park. This 44,500-hectare park hosts one of the world’s largest population of white rhino. It’s also known for unusual granite formations and a collection of ancient rock paintings. Here, walk with the rare white rhinos and hop on an open-vehicle game drive. (2B, 2L, 2D)

A N G O L A Z A M B I A

Victoria Falls Z I M BA B W E

DAYS 8 Johannesburg Your last day is spent in the city Johannesburg, so be sure to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, say your goodbyes and start planning your next adventure. (B)

Matobo N.P. B OT S WA N A

Tour Code: GADZKF Kruger N.P.

Johannesburg

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Participation camping (6 nts), simple hotel (1 nt)

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners

Overland adventure vehicle, 4WD

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

S O U T H A F R I C A

CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS ADVENTURE SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

PRICE FR $4,199

DURATION 18 DAYS

ROUTE CAPE TOWN - VICTORIA FALLS

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)/driver, local guides

ILI

LES APP

Mar 21

Feb 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

01 05 04 08 13 03 07 19 16 21 04 09 13 03 10 15 19 25 29 20 17 08 26 23 28 25 30 20 24 24 29 15 30 22

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

Jan 21

GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 14

, LY

HIGHLIGHTS

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $559

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

FISH RIVER CANYON

KALAHARI DESERT

OKAVANGO DELTA

Africa’s largest canyon boasts phenomenal landscapes that you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.

Learn the survival secrets of the San Bushmen (indigenous African hunter-gatherer groups).

Drift along the lily-covered waters of Okavango Delta’s wildlife-rich swamps in a traditional mokoro.

• Entry to Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei Dunes and Sesriem Canyon • Etosha National Park wildlife safari • Excursion to Okavango Delta • Ai-Ais Hot Springs visit • !Khwa ttu San Culture Centre • Penduka Village Restaurant and Shop • Traditional dinner

DAYS 1-4 Cape Town / Lambert’s Bay / Orange River / Fish River Canyon / Ai-Ais Discover the busy streets of Cape Town before meeting your group. Head north to Lambert’s Bay, stopping en route at the G for Good !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, an initiative that supports the local community and trains San students for a seven-month hospitality programme. Lambert’s Bay is a picturesque coastal town where you can opt to visit Bird Island, home to penguins and blue-eyed gannets at certain times of year. Cross into Namibia and settle in by the banks of the Orange River. Transfer to Fish River Canyon and take in the scenery, followed by a relaxation session in the healing waters of Ai-Ais hot springs. (3B)

DAYS 5-8 Namib Desert / Swakopmund Travel north to Sossusvlei, a natural wonderland of geological formations, including the world’s highest sand dunes. Opt to climb the famous Dune 45 and visit the 14-kilometre long Sesriem Canyon; invisible from even a short distance away yet home to a variety of birdlife. Pass by burnt orange landscapes as you travel to Swakopmund, where activities such as sandboarding, dolphin cruises, quad biking and skydiving are on offer. (3B, 2D)

DAYS 9-12 Etosha National Park / Windhoek / Kalahari Desert Undoubtedly one of Africa’s best places for wildlife spotting, game drives in Etosha National Park offer excellent opportunities to spot elephants, lions and antelope. Day 11, head through the countryside to Namibia’s small, friendly capital Windhoek, and visit the G for Good Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop. This project helps vulnerable women to secure employment opportunities, and contracts over 300 women annually for handicraft creation. Explore the Kalahari Desert on Day 12 and learn some crucial survival skills from a local San Bushman. Before turning in at the G for Good Dqae Qare San Lodge, enjoy a traditional dance demonstration. (B, L, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Okavango Delta Flight (Half day) Fr $120 Shorten your trip Cape and Namibia Adventure (12 days, Cape Town - Windhoek) (GADACD) Fr $2,199 Reverse your trip Dunes, Deltas & Falls Discoverer (18 days, Victoria Falls - Cape Town) (GADZDD) Fr $4,099

DAYS 13-18 Maun / Okavango Delta / Nata Area / Chobe National Park / Victoria Falls Arrive in Maun and opt to take a flight over the delta. Travel by mokoro into the Okavango Delta where you’ll enjoy game walks, birding and a sunset boat cruise along the serene, swampy waters. After a stop at Nata, journey on to Chobe National Park, home to Southern Africa’s largest elephant population. Opt for a sunset boat cruise or game drive to see those lovable big ears in real life. During the final days of the tour, cross the Zambezi by ferry to Victoria Falls and opt for a rafting, canoeing or scenic flight experience. (6B, L, 2D) Tour Code: GADAFD

Z A M B I A

Okavango Victoria Falls N A M I B I A Delta Chobe N.P. Etosha N.P. Maun Nata Ghanzi Swakopmund BOTSWANA Windhoek Namib Desert Fish River Canyon Gariep River

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (6 nts), lodge/chalet (5 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), basic camping (1 nt), participation camping (4 nts)

13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners

Air con touring vehicle, safari vehicle, mokoro

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Lambert’s Bay

S O U T H A F R I C A

Cape Town

CAPE, SAFARI AND FALLS EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 11 DAYS

ROUTE CAPE TOWN - VICTORIA FALLS

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

PRICE FR $2,535

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

GROUP SIZE: Max 26

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager & local guides

11 01 07 04 02 06 04 01 05 03 07 05 02 06 06 18 08 14 11 09 13 11 08 12 12 14 12 09 13 13 25 15 21 18 16 20 18 15 19 17 21 19 16 20 20 22 28 25 23 27 25 22 26 24 28 26 23 27 29 30 29 31 30

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $515

SPECIAL STAY

VICTORIA FALLS

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Camp in the bush of Chobe National Park in an exclusive campsite with your own guides, cooks and bonfire.

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, these falls are a phenomenon you won’t forget.

The size of a small country, this world-famous game reserve is home to Africa’s iconic Big 5.

DAYS 1-4 Cape Town / Kruger National Park Welcome to colourful Cape Town! Meet your Trip Manager and head out with your group for dinner. It’s a full day of sightseeing the following day, starting with a cable car ride up Table Mountain for panoramic city views before hopping on a tour of Cape Town. Day 3, enjoy a full day of excursions. Opt to drive along the cliffs of Chapman’s Peak down to Africa’s tip, waddle with penguins at Boulders Beach and enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting in the Cape Winelands. Fly to Johannesburg and journey on to the acclaimed Kruger National Park. (3B, 2D)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Table Mountain Cable Car • Safari in Kruger National Park and Chobe National Park • Victoria Falls tour • All national park fees

DAYS 5-7 Kruger National Park / Victoria Falls Set your alarm for sunrise; the perfect time to see some of Africa’s elusive predators finishing their nightly hunts. Keep your eyes peeled for lurking wildlife during your first morning safari. At midday, head out on an afternoon drive - cooler temperatures means more active wildlife! The safari continues the next day before you head back to Johannesburg on Day 7 for your flight to Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls. Here, opt to walk along the world’s largest waterfalls and enjoy an afternoon filled with adrenalin-fuelled activities. Those seeking a thrill can opt to jump, swing or zipline over the Zambezi River. There’s also an included sunset cruise on the Zambezi. (3B, L, D)

DAYS 8-9 Victoria Falls / Chobe National Park Max out your time in Victoria Falls with optional activities like rafting down the Zambezi (one of the world’s best white water rafting rivers), bungy jumping off the bridge or taking a scenic helicopter flight over the falls. The next day, travel to Botswana and Chobe National Park. Driving along the Chobe River is a guaranteed wildlife hotspot, as this park is home to the world’s largest elephant population. Feel at one with the African wilderness with a night under starry skies, camping in the middle of the bush, after a delicious meal al fresco. As you’re dozing off, you may hear a distant wheezing hyena or the sound of growling lions. (2B, D)

DAYS 10-11 Chobe National Park / Victoria Falls Rise and shine for a morning safari before checking into your lodge. Spend the rest of the day lounging around the pool before your final evening. Hop on a sunset cruise on the Chobe River, where you can spy happy hippos and basking crocs by the watering holes. The tour wraps up back at Victoria Falls. (2B)

Tour Code: COCEBBSA

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip East Africa Safari 12 days (Nairobi - Arusha) (COCEBBEA) Victoria Falls Chobe N.P.

Z I M BA B W E

B OT S WA N A

Kruger N.P. Johannesburg

S O U T H A F R I C A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (4 nts), twin-share African lodges (5 nts), luxury safari camping (1 nt)

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

Air con coach, minivan, 4WD safari vehicle, 2 internal flights

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Fr $4,035

Z A M B I A

Cape Town

EXPLORE SOUTHERN AFRICA PRICE FR $3,899

TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE CAPE TOWN - VICTORIA FALLS

DURATION 12 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides, rangers GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 14

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Entry to Victoria Falls, Kruger National Park safari, Carnivore Conservation Experience, traditional South African Braai, Karongwe Private Reserve Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

06 05 04 01 04 03 01 03 02 05 02 09 04 01 08 15 17 09 06 11 10 08 08 09 14 11 14 11 08 10 20 19 16 20 13 15 13 10 19 19 18 19 18 15 17 22 24 23 25 23 17 15 19 23 21 23 21 27 17 22 27 29 25 27 22 29 24 30 26 30 30 30 27 31

DAYS 1-3 Cape Town

DAYS 7-8 Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Start in Cape Town and visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden - named one of the top gardens in the world by National Geographic Traveler magazine. Continue to Cape Point to see penguins at Boulders Beach and, on Day 3, enjoy a day of leisure with optional activities such as a visit to Table Mountain or a Stellenbosch wine tour. (2B)

Head to a private nature reserve in the Greater Kruger area to meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Metapopulation Project. This National Geographic-sponsored project is part of the Big Cats initiative and helps protect cheetahs and other carnivores. Enjoy safari drives the next day in search of the Big 5. (2B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 4-6 Johannesburg / Kruger N.P.

DAYS 9-12 Johannesburg / Victoria Falls

Fly to Johannesburg, then visit Soweto, the former home of Nelson Mandela, and enjoy a South African braai (BBQ) for dinner. Hit the Panorama Route to Kruger National Park and, the following day, safari through Kruger to take in views of abundant wildlife including elephants, lions and giraffes. (3B, 3D)

Head back to Jo’burg, then fly to Zimbabwe and visit local markets, followed by a family dinner. After learning about the Zimbabwe culture, tour Victoria Falls and spend free time rafting or enjoying a helicopter ride over the falls. Your tour ends on Day 12. (4B, 2D)

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $919

Victoria Falls Kruger N.P.

Johannesburg

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Cape Town

Tour Code: GADSLNG

OUT H ... LIKE THAT? TRYASTHIS FR ICA

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (5 nts), guesthouse (2 nts), comfortable safari camp (2 nts), comfortable tent/chalet (2 nts)

11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners

Air con touring vehicle, open safari vehicle, plane

GARDEN ROUTE & ADDO ADVENTURE PRICE FR $641

DURATION 4, 5, 6 OR 7 DAYS

ROUTE CAPE TOWN - CAPE TOWN

Explore Kruger & Victoria Falls (9 days, Johannesburg-Victoria Falls) (GADSUNG) Fr $3,199

TRIP STYLE: Small Group Adventure AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Qualified guide GROUP SIZE: Min 3, Max 14 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Local wine tasting, Cango Caves adventure tour, hiking, game viewing safari, canoeing & penguin viewing DEPARTS:

Monday

Itinerary can also be done in different order. Please ask your Travel Expert NOTE:

DAY 1 Cape Town / Cape Agulhas

DAY 4 Tsitsikamma / Addo Elephant N.P.

Leave Cape Town and wind along the coast to Cape Agulhas. En route, see a colony of African penguins in Betty’s Bay and explore the seaside town of Hermanus, famous for sightings of southern right whales. (D)

It’s on to Tsitsikamma today, stopping to see the world’s highest bungy jump bridge. Opt to take the 216-metre plunge, then calm your nerves with a gentle hike. (B, D)

DAY 2 Route 62 / Oudtshoorn Hit South Africa’s longest wine route to Oudtshoorn. After sampling the local vino, venture into the Cango Caves where you ‘can go’ on a guided adventure tour. (B, D)

DAY 3 Knysna / Sedgefield Head to the Outeniqua Mountains today to explore Wilderness National Park, aptly named due to its forests, lakes and wetlands. Paddle up the Touw River and hike to a waterfall, then meander around Knysna. (B, D)

DAY 5 Addo Elephant N.P. / Wilderness Spend the morning game viewing in the Addo Elephant National Park, home to more than 600 elephants as well as lions, buffaloes and zebras. Overnight in Wilderness. S O U T H

DAY 6 Mossel Bay / Cape Town

A F R I C A

After some welcome beach time in Mossel Bay, hike the rugged St. Blaize Trail before returning to Cape Town. (B) Tour Code: CPTGAA (4 days)/CPTGR4 (5 days)/

CPTRAA (6 days)/CPTSAF (7 days)

Cape Town Hermanus

Oudtshoorn

Mossel Bay

Addo Sedgefield Elephant N.P.

Knysna Tsitsikamma N.P.

Cape Agulhas

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hostels or guesthouses, dorms with shared facilities/private rooms (5 nts)

4 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Return transfers, air con minibus

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Wilderness

KENYA CAMPING SAFARI PRICE FR $2,289

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE NAIROBI - NAIROBI

DURATION 9 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), certified driver/guide, camp crew GROUP SIZE: Max 14, Avg 10

LES APP

, LY

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

21 12 09 06 04 22 20 08 12 05 28 26 23 20 27 15 19 22

E PA

12 09 01

ILI

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

ELIGIB

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $119

DAYS 1-3 Nairobi / Samburu Game Reserve

DAYS 6-7 Maasai Mara

Leave Kenya’s capital and head for the countryside on Day 2, passing Mt. Kenya - Africa’s second-highest mountain - en route to Samburu National Reserve. The Ewaso Ngiro River slices through the bone-dry park and acts as a magnet for thirsty elephants, zebras, giraffes and lions. See if you can spot some of these animals on game drives. You’ll also meet the semi-nomadic Samburu tribesfolk on a village visit. (2B, 2L, 2D)

No visit to Kenya would be complete without a trip to U G A N DA the Maasai Mara. The migrating herds of wildebeests and zebras are one of its most impressive sights, but the endless plains and kaleidoscope of natural colours are pretty hard to beat. Join numerous game drives or opt to see the savannah from a hot-air balloon. (2B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 4-5 Lake Nakuru National Park Famed for its flamingo-lined lake and forest-clad escarpments, Lake Nakuru is a must on any safari itinerary. Look out for critically endangered black rhino. These shy animals are hard to spot (surprising given their size), so let’s hope luck is on your side. (2B, 2L, 2D)

Samburu Reserve

DAYS 8-9 Nairobi K E N YA

After a morning game drive on Day 8, continue through the Great Rift Valley to Café Ubuntu for lunch. This G for Good project provides over 400 sustainable jobs for mothers of children with disabilities. Return to Nairobi where the trip finishes on Day 9. (2B, L)

Lake Nakuru N.P.

Tour Code: GADKWA

Nairobi

Maasai Mara Reserve TA N Z A N I A

CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels (2 nts), full-service camping (4 nts), permanent tented camp (2 nts)

8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners

7-seater 4WD vehicle

NAIROBI TO ZANZIBAR: SERENGETI & SUNSETS PRICE FR $1,999

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE NAIROBI - STONE TOWN

Maasai Mara Balloon Safari Half day

Fr $40

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), driver, certified safari guides, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 20, Avg 17 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G For Good visit to Mto wa Mbu, safaris in Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town walk

- WE LOVE -

E PA

ELIGIB

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39S)

DAYS 1-2 Nairobi / Arusha

DAYS 5-6 Arusha / Dar es Salaam

Rich in art, culture and history with some of the world’s most celebrated nature parks nearby, Nairobi is the perfect starting point to this adventure-filled tour. Leave Kenya’s hub city on Day 2 and cross the border to Arusha, dubbed Tanzania’s safari capital. (B)

Venture inside the crater for a final game drive the next morning. En route to Arusha, visit the G for Good Mto wa Mbu village initiative for a cultural walk and traditional lunch. The final leg of the tour swaps the savannah for the sandy shores of the Indian Ocean coast. (3B, L, D)

DAYS 3-4 Serengeti N.P. / Ngorongoro Crater

DAYS 7-10 Zanzibar

Grab your binoculars and search the grassy plains of the Serengeti for the famous Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhino). The epic views and animal encounters don’t stop when you reach the Ngorongoro Crater on Day 4. Camp under starry skies on the rim of the ancient volcano and drift off to the sounds of the night. Is that a grunting gnu or someone snoring? (2B, 2L, 2D)

Ferry over to Zanzibar and explore the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town on an orientation walk. You’ll pinch yourself when you see the pristine beaches and sparkling turquoise waters of Jambiani, but you are awake. Spend the next two days swimming, snorkelling or relaxing in paradise. One cocktail or two? (3B)

Tour Code: GADKSZ

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visit to Café Ubuntu, safaris in Samburu N.P., Lake Nakuru N.P. & Maasai Mara, Samburu village visit

03 07 06 10 01 05 03 07 04 02 13 11 08 17 28 27 24 22 26 17 21 18 16 27 18 22 31 24 28 30 25 31

K E N YA

Serengeti N.P. Ngorongoro Crater

Nairobi Arusha

Zanzibar

TA N Z A N I A

Dar es Salaam

CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP...

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotel (2 nts), full-service camping (2 nts), multi-share hostels (5 nts)

9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Shuttle, 4WD, tuk tuk, ferry, minibus

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Serengeti Balloon Safari Half day

Fr $579

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

Trek Kilimanjaro

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WILL THE ALTITUDE AFFECT ME?

WHAT WILL I EAT?

WHERE WILL I SLEEP?

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?

The air at the summit contains about half of the breathable oxygen most of us are used to at sea level. Everyone will handle the high altitude and thinner air differently, which is why your leader will try to keep the ascent slow and steady.

You’ll need energy to make that push to the top, and your camp cooks will make sure there’s plenty of healthy, quality food on hand. What's more, the equipment and supplies (including fresh produce) will be carried for you!

On all G Adventures treks, excluding the Marangu Route where you’ll stay in mountain huts, you’ll get stuck in with full-service camping. Apart from a sleeping bag and pillow (which can be rented), you won’t need to bring anything.

The main reason people fail to reach the summit is due to altitude sickness rather than a lack of strength or stamina. That said, it's easier the fitter you are. However, there’s no need to go overboard with fitness preparations.

UHURU PEAK 5,895m

Route behind mountain

MTI MKUBWA CAMP 2,750m

SHIRA CAMP 1 3,500m

SHIRA CAMP 2 3,850m

KARANGA CAMP 4,000m

MAWENZI TARN 4,310m

BARFU CAMP 4,600m

BARRANCO CAMP 3,950m

LODOROSSI GATE 2,250m

MACHAME CAMP 3,000m

MAWENZI 5,149m

KIBO HUT & CAMP/ SCHOOL HUT 4,700m

HOROMBO HUT 3,720m

MWEKA CAMP 3,100m

KIKELEWA CAVE 3,600m

LEMOSHO

MANDARA HUT 2,720m

SIMBA CAMP 2,600m

MACHAME GATE 1,800m

RONGAI GATE 1,990m

MWEKA GATE 1,650m

MACHAME VILLAGE 1,500m

RONGAI MWEKA VILLAGE 1,480m

MARANGU GATE 1,800m

MARANGU

MACHAME

MACHAME ROUTE Moshi

Moshi

Selected Sat, Wed and Mon

MARANGU ROUTE Moshi

Moshi

Selected Sundays

HIGHLIGHTS

HIGHLIGHTS • Catch views of Kibo peak • Six days on Mt. Kilimanjaro

GADTM8

E PA

• See forests and moorlands • Quickest route to take

Trip Style: Active Service Level: Camping Physical Grading: 5 Age Group: Min 12 Accommodation: Simple hotels (2 nts), full-service camping (5 nts) Transport: Minibus, trekking Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $7095 for meals Group Leader: Certified mountain guide, local rep, cook, porters Group Size: Max 12, Avg 10 FR $2,899 8 DAYS

E PA

, LY

LES APP

ILI

• Summit success rate of 95% • G for Good Moshi Mamas visit

ELIGIB

GE 10

Affectionately called the Coca-Cola route due to its popularity, Marangu covers forests, moorlands, rocky ravines and The Saddle, a high-altitude desert, on its way to Kibo Hut. This is the most popular trail and is well maintained throughout, but due to the quick ascent, the success rate is not as high as the other routes (but still 80%!). Keep an eye out for monkeys at lower altitudes.

GE 10

Known as the Whiskey Route, the Machame path leads you through the forests on the slopes of Kili, up over rocky terrain and onto high alpine deserts with striking views of hanging glaciers and the mighty Kibo massif. On your way to the summit at 5,895m, catch fantastic views of the surrounding peaks, the Breach Wall and the snow-covered Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Easy as pie, right?

LES APP

, LY

• Summit success rate of 80% • G for Good Moshi Mamas visit

Trip Style: Active Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 5 Age Group: Min 12 Accommodation: Simple hotels (2 nts), mountain huts (4 nts) Transport: Minibus, trekking Meals: 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $70-95 for meals Group Leader: Certified mountain guide, local rep, cook, porters Group Size: Max 12, Avg 10 FR $2,699 8 DAYS

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

GADTKM

TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERIENCE PRICE FR $3,999

TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE ARUSHA - ARUSHA

DURATION 7 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), certified driver/guide

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visits to Clean Cookstoves Project and Mto wa Mbu village, Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre lecture, safaris in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge Museum entrance

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DEPARTURES 2020/21: 7-10 departures per month (Jan, Jul-Oct, Dec20-Feb21), 2-5 departures per month (Feb-Jun, Nov, Mar21) MY OWN ROOM: Fr $419

DAYS 1-2 Arusha / Lake Manyara N.P.

DAYS 4-5 Serengeti / Ngorongoro Crater

Arrive in Arusha at any time on Day 1. Visit the G for Good Mto wa Mbu Village for a guided cultural walk and traditional lunch with a local family on Day 2. Continue to your camp in Lake Manyara National Park, which has unobstructed views of the Rift Valley Escarpment. Embark on an afternoon wildlife safari an search out the famed tree-climbing lions. (B, L, D)

Embark on morning and afternoon safaris in a 4WD that features a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife observation. U G A N DA Visit the Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre and enjoy a lecture by one of the researchers. Opt to take a sunrise balloon safari. Continue viewing wildlife on the drive to your tented camp at the Ngorongoro Crater. (2B, 2L, 2D)

DAY 3 Serengeti National Park Visit a Maasai village and learn about the G for Good Clean Cookstoves Project. Meet the women that have been trained as stove engineers and get your hands dirty by helping build a stove in a bomba (traditional home). After, stop at Olduvai Gorge Museum before continuing to the Serengeti National Park. (B, L, D)

DAYS 6-7 Arusha On Day 6, depart early into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a wildlife safari and a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, drive to Arusha. Depart at any time on Day 7. (2B, L)

Tour Code: GADTTNG

K E N YA

Serengeti N.P. Olduvai Gorge Ngorongoro Crater

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (2 nts), safari lodge (1 nt), tented camp (3 nts)

6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners

7-seat safari vehicle

CULTURE & WILDLIFE OF UGANDA & RWANDA PRICE FR $3,549

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE KAMPALA - KIGALI

Arusha

Lake Manyara N.P. TA N Z A N I A

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)/driver, gorilla trackers, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 12, Avg 8

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visit to Nyamirambo Women’s Centre, guest farm stay near Kibale N.P., chimpanzee trek, Bigodi Community lunch, Queen Elizabeth N.P. safari, guided gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable N.P., visit to Kigali Genocide Museum, all permits & park fees

ILI

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

GROUP SIZE: Max 6, Avg 5

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Kampala / Fort Portal

DAYS 6-7 Bwindi Impenetrable N.P.

After a night in Uganda’s capital, travel to Fort Portal on Day 2. As the name suggests, it’s a great portal to some of the country’s best nature reserves, including Kibale Forest National Park. Spend the night on a local farm listening to the sounds of monkeys and birds. (B, L, D)

The ominous-sounding Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (aka The Place of Darkness) will be your base for the next few days. You might think it’s the setting for a horror film, but it’s actually the scene of something far less scary: rare mountain gorillas. Meeting these gentle giants, with their human-like expressions, is a bucket list moment and worth the trek through dense jungle. (2B)

DAYS 3-5 Kibale N.P. / Queen Elizabeth N.P. On Day 3, spot chimps and rare red colobus monkeys while trekking through tropical rainforest, then tuck into a traditional lunch at the Bigodi Community. Next up, it’s Queen Elizabeth National Park which is inhabited by 96 species of mammals, such as hippos, elephants, lions, leopards and hyenas. Look out for these animals during two days of game drives, and opt for a cruise along the Kazinga Channel. (3B, 2L, 3D)

DAY 8 Kigali Learn about Rwanda’s dark past at Kigali’s genocide museum, then end on a lighter note with lunch at the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre. This G for Good project provides education to disadvantaged women. (B, L)

Tour Code: GADURU

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Selected Fri & Sat (Jan20), Selected Sat (Feb20-Mar21)

U G A N DA

Fort Portal Queen Elizabeth N.P.

Kibale N.P.

Kampala Bwindi Impenetrable N.P.

Kigali RWA N DA

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Standard hotel (1 nt), furnished tents (6 nts)

7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Private van

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Customise your trip T A N Z A N I A Jinja River Rafting

Fr $140

EGYPT & JORDAN ADVENTURE SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

PRICE FR $2,399

DURATION 17 DAYS

ROUTE CAIRO - AMMAN

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 10

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: Fridays and Sundays

HIGHLIGHTS

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $489

ILI

LES APP

, LY

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

PYRAMIDS OF GIZA

PETRA

NILE RIVER CRUISE

These are what you came for, right? Super close to Cairo’s city centre, these are about 5,000 years old.

Carved into red stone, the best view of the Rose City is found by climbing up to the local monastery.

That’s not a log... it’s a crocodile! Fortunately, your felucca will sail you to temples in safety.

• Tour of Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Edfu and Kom Ombo temples, Colossi of Memnon, Shobak and Karak castles, Madaba mosaics, Petra, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar & Egyptian Museum • Beach time at Red Sea & the Dead Sea • Local meals in Nubian village, Luxor & Bedouin overnight camp • Felucca overnight sailing & Wadi Rum jeep excursions • Temple of Hatshepsut & Valley of the Kings guided visit & donkey ride

DAYS 1-4 Cairo/ Aswan Arrive at Egypt’s capital and rest before being welcomed by the ancient Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum the next day. After snoozing on a sleeper train to Aswan, wake up to wander the souks along the Nile’s banks. During the afternoon, a felucca boat escorts you to a Nubian village. Tuck into a tasty home cooked dinner with a local family and opt to visit the temples of Abu Simbel. (3B, 2D)

DAYS 5-8 Aswan / Nile River / Kom Ombo / Luxor/ Cairo

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

Your felucca spends a day cruising down the Nile, where you also bed down in the evening. En route to Luxor, pop into Kom Obu Temple and the Temple of Edfu. Climb up on a donkey on Day 7 and gallop, or rather trot, to Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut. Before your overnight train to Cairo, eat lunch with a local family on the west bank of the Nile. Once you return to the capital, a guided tour whisks you though the fantastic stalls in the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. (4B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 9-12 Nuweiba / Aqaba / Wadi Rum In Nuweiba, pick between snorkelling in the Red Sea or watching the waves from the beach. Depending on whether you’re keen to relax or get active, a free day in Nuweiba or an excursion to Mt. Sinai awAït on Day 10. Hop a ferry to Aqaba, Jordan and kick off with a 4WD excursion before a traditional dinner and overnight stay at a bedouin desert camp in Wadi Rum where local bedouins are dressed as soldiers while playing drums and... bagpipes?! (4B, D)

Customise your trip Hot Air Balloon Ride over Wadi Rum For an airborne view of the sunrise over the mountains of Wadi Rum. Fr $185 Temple of Abu Simbel See the imperial might of Ramses II at one of Egypt’s snazziest temples. Fr $125 Jerash

DAYS 13-17 Wadi Musa / Petra / Madaba / Amman As you make your way to Wadi Musa, get a taste for what’s in store with Siq al-Barid (Little Petra) before arriving at the real deal. Think of Little Petra as basically the Shia LaBouff to Petra’s Harrison Ford. Petra is just one structure of the ancient Rose City, making up just 15% of it, with the rest still lying underground. For amazing views of the lost city that you won’t have to share with crowds, camels and donkeys, hike up to the Monastery. Visit Shobak and Karak castles, Mt. Nebo and finish the day with a guided tour of the Madaba mosaics. In Amman opt to float in the Dead Sea and then explore the sights of the city before going home. (5B) Tour Code: GADPJA

Dead Sea

Amman Karak J O R DA N

Cairo

Petra

EG YPT

Aqaba

Wadi Rum

SAU D I A R A B I A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (12 nts), desert camping (1 nt), sleeper train (2 nts), felucca (1 nt)

16 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners

Air con van, train, felucca, plane, 4WD, ferry, donkey

Luxor

Aswan

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

EGYPT ON A SHOESTRING PRICE FR $799

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE CAIRO - CAIRO

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Certified Egyptologist as Chief Experience Officer (CEO)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Guided tour of the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Orientation walk though Cairo’s Khan el-Khalili bazaar, felucca overnight sailing excursion, Kom Ombo Temple

GE 10

DEPARTS: Fridays and selected Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat & Sun (Jan-Dec20), Fridays and selected Wed & Sat (Jan21-Mar21)

E PA

ELIGIB T

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $399

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES (18-39 s )

DAYS 1-2 Cairo

DAYS 5-6 River Nile / Luxor

Meet the rest of your group in Cairo and see the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. The Sphinx itself is also widely accepted to be the oldest monumental sculpture in human history - so she’s doing pretty well, considering. Wander the narrow alleys of the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, taking time to hit a shisha café before jumping on an overnight sleeper train to Aswan. (B, D)

Return to your felucca and spend a day and night floating down the longest river in the world. Varied architecture lines the banks of your journey, so try not to nap through the whole thing. Back on dry land, head to the well-preserved temples of Karnak and Kom Ombo. (2B, L, D)

DAYS 3-4 Aswan With a free morning to explore this distinctly African city, stroll along the souk or join a tour. In the evening, a traditional felucca cruises you to a Nubian village on the banks of the Nile for a home cooked dinner. On Day 4, opt to visit the temple complex of Abu Simbel or take it easy as you scout out the city further. (2B, D)

Cairo

DAYS 7-8 Luxor / Cairo With free time in Luxor, you can grab last mouthfuls of all your new Egyptian favourites, walk among the tall sandstone pillars of the Luxor temple, or cross the river to the Valley of the Kings. Finish your tour by boarding an overnight train to Cairo. (2B, D)

Luxor

Tour Code: GADPGE

EG YPT

Aswan

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels (4 nts), sleeper train (2 nts), felucca (1 nt)

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

Private air con van, train, felucca

BEST OF EGYPT PRICE FR $1,049

S U DA N Temple of Abu Simbel Half day

Fr $125

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE CAIRO - CAIRO

GROUP LEADER: Certified Egyptologist as Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx guided tour, Egyptian Museum tour, felucca overnight sailing excursion, Karnak & Kom Ombo temples tour, Temple of Hatshepsut & Valley of the Kings visit, Colossi of Memnon visit.

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $329

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: Fridays and Sundays

ILI

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

L LES APP

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Cairo

DAY 5 River Nile / Felucca

Welcome to Cairo! Spend the next couple of days delving into this chaotic but exciting city. Go on a guided tour of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, and another through the Egyptian Museum. An overnight train whisks you away to Aswan. (B, D)

Time to sail the mighty Nile! At 6,853 kilometres, it’s widely regarded as the longest river in the world and flows through 11 countries, primarily Egypt and Sudan. Board a traditional felucca for a day out on the water and a night under the stars. (B, L, D)

DAYS 3-4 Aswan

DAYS 6-8 Kom Ombo / Luxor / Cairo

Take things down a notch in Aswan, located on the banks of the Nile. In the evening, join a local family for a home-cooked dinner in a nearby Nubian village. On Day 4, spend your free time exploring Aswan. The Old Market, which sells anything from peanuts to henna powder, is a great place to start. You may also choose to visit the temples of Abu Simbel as well. (2B, D)

Step off the felucca and visit the Graeco-Roman Kom Ombo Temple and Luxor, often referred to as the world’s best open-air museum. Hit up Colossi of Memnon, Valley of the Kings and the Temples of Hatshepsut. Soak up those last moments in Luxor before flying back to Cairo where the tour ends. (3B, L)

Cairo

Luxor

Tour Code: GADPBE EG YPT

Aswan

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (5 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), felucca (1 nt)

7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Air con van, train, felucca, plane

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

S U DA N Best of Egypt, Jordan and Israel 22 days (GADPCT) Fr $4,449

EGYPT AND THE NILE EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 8 DAYS

PRICE FR $1,389

ROUTE CAIRO - AMMAN

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

NEED TO KNOWS AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 53

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer

09 15 10 08 08 03 14 11 16 13 18 08 05 05 24 22 19 17 28 25 30 27 25 22 19 31

SPECIAL STAY

LUXOR

RED SEA CRUISE

Cruise the Nile on a traditional felucca and spend three nights on a cruise boat with an on-board pool.

Considered one of the world’s best open-air museums, Luxor is crammed with temples and artefacts.

Take to the ocean for snorkelling, sun worshipping and cooling sundowners.

DAYS 1-2 Cairo A hotel transfer picks you up from the airport and takes you straight to your Cairo hotel where you’ll meet your fellow travellers. Start Day 2 with a visit to the Egyptian Museum, home to actual mummies as well as the exquisite jewels that were raided from their tombs (hope the curse was worth it, lads). Feast your eyes on the Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza, the lone survivors of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. Later that evening, bed down on an overnight train south to Aswan. (B, D)

DAYS 3-4 Aswan Nile Cruise Pull into Egypt’s ancient southern frontier town, Aswan, with its enchanting temples and brightly coloured Nubian houses. Opt to take a tour of the city to see the Unfinished Obelisk - weighing in at an impressive 1,168 tonnes - before jumping aboard a traditional felucca boat. Retire on a luxury cruise boat for your first of three nights cruising down the river and make good use of your on-board pool. After passing the Arabian Desert on Day 4, stop off in Kom Ombo to greet the God of Crocodiles on your way to Edfu. (2B, 2L, 2D)

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $565

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Guided tours of Egyptian Museums, the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings • Sailing down the Nile on a felucca & an overnight cruise boat • Visit of Kom Ombo, the Unfinished Obelisk of High Dam, Luxor Red Sea snorkelling, Colossos of Memnon

DAYS 5-6 Edfu / Luxor / Hurghada En route to temple-clad Luxor, make an optional stop to the temples of Abu Simbel, the most complete example of ancient Egyptian architecture. As your felucca comes in to dock, reacquaint yourself with dry land with a walk down the regal Avenue of Sphinxes, then continue to the Colossi of Memnon where two battered and bruised giants will be waiting patiently in their chairs for you. Next up, the Valley of the Kings. In about 1,500 B.C. the Pharaohs decided it wasn’t fashionable to be buried inside a pyramid anymore (too pointy), and opted to be buried here instead. This massive network of tombs is right across the river from Luxor and may even rival your love for the pyramids. After a couple of temple and tomb-heavy days, your next stop is the city of Hurghada, your base for Red Sea snorkelling and gorgeous sunsets. Get the rounds in at the city’s bars and clubs. (2B, L, 2D)

Cairo

DAYS 7-8 Cairo After some more splashing around in the sea or basking on the white sand, head back to Cairo for one last night with your group before your trip comes to an end after breakfast on Day 8. (2B)

Tour Code: COWTEG

Hurghada

Luxor

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (3 nts), cruise boat (3 nts), twin-berth sleep couchette train (1 nt)

7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners

Coach, train, cruise boat, arrival transfers

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Edfu

EG Y PT

Aswan

ISRAEL EXPLORER SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE TEL AVIV - JERUSALEM

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

PRICE FR $2,099

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 10

E PA

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

, LY

Apr

LES APP

Mar

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

ILI

Feb

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)

17 07 06 03 01 05 03 07 01 14 03 04 08 05 05 24 14 13 17 05 12 10 14 04 16 06 11 22 12 09 21 20 24 08 19 24 21 11 23 10 18 29 16 12 28 27 28 19 26 28 25 30 13 25 19 23 31 22 27 26 26

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,659

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES DEAD SEA

NAZARETH

JERUSALEM

Float on the purifying waters of this saline body of water and take in its breathtaking natural beauty.

Widely recognised for its religious significance, Nazareth is actually quite the buzzing mini-metropolis.

Unearth layers of history in Jerusalem: a spiritual city sacred to Jews, Muslims and Christians.

DAYS 1-2 Tel Aviv / Haifa Welcome to your starting point Tel Aviv (meaning ‘Hill of Spring’ in Hebrew). Explore this action-packed city and spend the next morning soaking up sun in a city that enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year. Take an orientation walk in historic Jaffa before heading to a Druze community for a local lunch. Then, travel to Haifa, set in a stunning location on the slopes of Mt. Carmel and facing the waters of the Mediterranean. (B, L)

• Swim in the Dead Sea • Akko and Nazareth visits • Tour in Masada and Sea of Galilee • Old Jerusalem walking tour • Refugee camp community visit • Tel Aviv orientation tour • Druze village visit and traditional lunch

DAYS 3-4 Galilee / Jericho It’s off to UNESCO-listed Akko to meander its colourful markets and the old city. Travel on to Nazareth and head to the 59.5-metre high Basilica of the Annunciation, one of the largest churches in the Middle East. Reach the Sea of Galilee in the evening, where you’ll get the chance to see the Church of Transfiguration - a popular place for religious pilgrims - and the ruins of Capernaum to the north. Visit a local Kibbutz to learn about communal living in these traditional settlements before heading on to the small laid-back city of Jericho for the night. (2B)

DAYS 5-6 Dead Sea / Jerusalem On Day 5, visit the UNESCO-listed fortress of Masada which rises dramatically above the Dead Sea. Unwind with a soak and float in the Dead Sea before continuing on to Jerusalem for the night. Aim for Jerusalem’s Old City on Day 6, with a guided tour starting at the Dome of the Rock and the Al Asqa Mosque courtyard. Walk along the Stations of the Cross to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be where Jesus was crucified and buried. Journey on to the Western Wall - a sacred place of prayer and pilgrimage to Jewish people - and spend the afternoon at your own leisure. The evening calls for an optional cooking class. (2B)

DAYS 7-8 Bethlehem / Jerusalem Travel to Bethlehem, home to a bazaar and buzzing Old City, as well as famous religious sites such as the Mar Saba Monastery. Visit the Church of Nativity, a popular pilgrim destination as it’s believed by some to be the birthplace of Christ. Be prepared to crouch though, as the only entrance to the church is a mere 1.2-metres high. Continue on to Duhaishe Camp for Palestinian refugees before heading back to Jerusalem for a final independent exploration. Day 8 marks the last day of your trip, but choose to stay on if you just can’t get enough of the beautiful and historic Middle East. (2B)

Tour Code: GADOIE

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Israel and Jordan Adventure (15 days, Tel Aviv - Amman) (GADJNT) Fr $3,199 Best of Egypt, Jordan and Israel (22 days, Cairo-Jerusalem) (GADPCT) Fr $4,449

Akko

Sea of Galilee

Haifa Nazareth

Tel Aviv Jerusalem

Jericho

Bethlehem Masada / Dead Sea

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Private van

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

I S R A E L

J O R DA N

MOROCCO KASBAHS AND DESERT SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 8 DAYS

PRICE FR $849

ROUTE CASABLANCA - MARRAKECH

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

TRIP STYLE: Classic

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

NEED TO KNOWS

AGE GROUP: Min 12

ILI

LES APP

, LY

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer, (CEO), driver, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 14, Avg 10 DEPARTS: Tue, Sat, Sun and selected Fridays (Jan-Feb), selected Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun (Mar-Dec) MY OWN ROOM : Fr $229

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES CAMEL RIDE

FES

TODRA GORGE

Pro tip: If you’ve never mounted a camel before, hold on really tight as it stands up. The rest is easy.

This nearly car-free city feels timeless with its narrow alleys and donkey-pulled carts.

Steep, red canyons tower above as you walk past villages and kasbahs. It’s positively gorge-ous.

DAY 1 Casablanca Arrive in Casablanca at any time and get exploring. It has a certain European air about it, a stark contrast to the rest of the country’s larger cities. Before you meet your group this evening, head out to the medina, the beachfront or visit the spectacular Hassan II Mosque. This impressive feat of architecture has a retractable roof, the tallest minaret in the world and a promontory that allows worshippers to pray over the sea.

• Guided tours of Volubilis, Fes & Marrakech medina • Sahara Desert excursion with camel ride • Todra Gorge stay & walk • Aït Benhaddou Kasbah visit • G for Good Meknes community lunch

DAYS 2-4 Volubilis / Fes/ Merzouga With your food baby safely stowed after a G for Good traditional lunch in a community in Meknes, continue on to a guided tour of the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Peer into old bathhouses, marvel at mosaic floors then continue on the road to Fes. On Day 3, take a guided walk through the vast medina of Fes. It’s the world’s largest car-free urban area, so watch out for donkeys carting goods up and down the alleys like they’ve done for centuries. Later, take in the view from an ancient tannery. After a long morning drive, a camel will trek you through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the edge of the Sahara. Whatever you do, don’t say ‘ouch’ when on your camel. It’s the Berber command for camels to sit, so you’ll go flying off if you’re not ready. In that event, saying ‘ouch’ one more time can’t hurt... again. (3B, L, D)

DAYS 5-6 Todra Gorge / Aït Benhaddou Leave the sea of sand dunes behind and visit the stunning Todra Gorge and the Route of 1,000 Kasbahs. Walk through local village farmlands and explore the area around the gorge. The fascinating sight of Aït Benhaddou, one of the best-preserved kasbahs in the world, brings Day 6 to a close. Lose yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s narrow winding passageways and opt to participate in a tagine cooking class for an intro to Moroccan cuisine. (2B)

DAYS 7-8 Marrakech Make your way through the High Atlas Mountains and set your sights on Marrakech. On arrival, take a guided tour of the famous medina - try not to get overwhelmed! Full of spices, carpets and crafts, there’s a lot going on. Afterwards, opt to visit the Djemaa el-Fna Square to watch local musicians and magicians, and indulge yourself in a feast at the famous food stalls. Depart at any time on Day 8. (2B)

Tour Code: GADCKD

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Shorten your trip Morocco Journey (9 days, Casablanca - Marrakech) (GADCMNG) Fr $1,899 Coastal Morocco: Waves & Waterfalls (5 days, Marrakech - Marrakech) (GADCKE) Fr $529

Casablanca

Marrakech

Volubilis

Fes

Todra Gorge

Aït Benhaddou

Merzouga

M O RO CCO

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Air con van, camels

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

MOROCCO: DESERTS & BEACHES PRICE FR $919

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE MARRAKECH - MARRAKECH

DURATION 11 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Todra Gorge, camel ride in the desert, dinner at Berber camp, Aït Benhaddou Kasbah visit, hike in the Atlas Mountains, meal in mountain gîte, Paradise Valley, surf lesson in Taghazout, sunset beach bonfire, Essaouira orientation walk DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

City Name City Name

DAYS 1-3 Marrakech / Merzouga

DAYS 7-8 Marrakech / Agadir

Arrive into Marrakech and prep for a night on the town. It’s off to Todra Gorge on Day 2 where rugged cliff-sided canyons stretch on for miles. Swap the mountains for desert as you ride a camel into the dunes and watch a scenic sunset before sleeping at a Berber camp. (2B, D)

After a day of exploring the charms of Marrakech, have a night out with your group. Spend Day 8 soaking in rock pools and discovering cascading waterfalls in Paradise Valley. Opt for a guided hike, or explore the village of Izourki Oufella, a region famous for its refined honey and argan oil, before continuing on to Agadir. (2B, D)

DAYS 4-6 Aït Benhaddou / Aroumd It’s time to leave the desert (sob) and enter the famous mud-brick kasbah of Aït Benhaddou where you’ll feel like you’re in a Game of Thrones episode. Traverse the Atlas Mountains, the village of Aroumd and Mt. Toubkal before feasting on a home cooked dinner in a mountain gîte. Walk to the small village of Imlil on Day 6 to catch your transfer to Marrakech. (3B, D)

M O RO CCO

DAYS 9-11 Agadir / Essaouira / Marrakech

Todra Marrakech Gorge Aït Benhaddou Agadir Aroumd

Tour Code: GADCKM

Merzouga

Essaouira

Catch sick waves with a morning surf sesh, then it’s off to Essaouira, known for its royal blue wooden boats. An orientation walk will give you an idea of how to use your freedom on Day 10. It’s home time on Day 11 as you finish the adventure in Marrakech. (3B, L, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS A L G... E R I A ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (6 nts), multi-share tented desert camp (1 nt), multi-share mountain gîte (1 nt), surf house (2 nts)

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

Air con van, public bus

MOROCCO: MARKETS & MOUNTAINS PRICE FR $999

DURATION 13 DAYS

ROUTE CASABLANCA - MARRAKECH

Moroccan Desert Adventure: River Canyons & Camels 7 days (GADCKK)

Fr $729

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 14, Avg 10 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Orientation walks in Chefchaouen & Tinghir, Rif Valley Mountain & Atlas Mountains hike, camel ride, traditional dinner, drum show, Aït Benhaddou Kasbah tour

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18–39s)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

GROUP SIZE: Max 14, Avg 10

05 02 15 05 10 07 05 02 06 11 01 13 03 14 14 19 16 22 19 17 14 12 16 13 18 15 20 17 21 26 24 28 30 20 25 29 31

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

DAYS 1-5 Casablanca / Chefchaouen / Fes

DAYS 9-10 Merzouga / Aït Benhaddou

Rock up to Casablanca any time and stop by Morocco’s capital of Rabat en route to Chefchaouen. You’ve got a couple of days to get lost in winding blue passageways and take your fill of photos. You have two free days in Fes, home to the world’s oldest medieval medina. Local life doesn’t seem to have changed much in a century. To see what we mean, visit a Berber pharmacy or absorb all the colours in the rippling local tanneries. (4B)

As you sit on your new camel friend on top of a sand dune, watch the sun set and the stars appear. Venture City Name towards the famous fortified city of Aït Benhaddou on City Name Day 10, which overlooks the Ouarzazate River before heading on to the Atlas Mountains the next day. (2B, D)

DAYS 6-8 Fes / Marrakech Head to Marrakech and spend two days exploring the lively Djemaa el-Fna Square and the world-famous souks. Another side of the city will reveal itself as you join your CEO for a night on the town. Rest well though as you head to the canyons of Todra Gorge on Day 8. (3B)

DAYS 11-13 Aroumd / Marrakech The Berber village of Aroumd is where you start up the 4,167-metre Mt. Toubkal. Not to worry though as a kind donkey will carry your bags. Just try not to choke on your home cooked meal while taking in the views at the top. Descend to Imlil village on Day 12 before heading back to Marrakech to prep for your flight home. (3B, D)

Tour Code: GADCMX

Chefchaouen Fes

Rabat

Casablanca Marrakech Aroumd

Todra Gorge

Aït Benhaddou

Merzouga

M O RO CCO

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels (11 nts), multi-share mountain gîte (1 nt)

12 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Air con van, camel

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

A LG E R I A

HIGHLIGHTS OF MOROCCO SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES

PRICE FR $1,399

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE CASABLANCA - MARRAKECH

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer

(CEO), driver

LES APP

GROUP SIZE: Max 14, Avg 10

, LY

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

03 07 02 03 01 05 03 01 02 02 02 04 01 05 01 10 10 06 05 04 08 06 07 04 05 06 07 08 08 05 13 14 13 06 11 19 11 10 07 07 09 11 11 12 08 17 17 16 13 18 22 24 12 14 14 16 14 15 15 12 24 21 20 17 22 26 27 15 16 16 20 18 22 19 19 27 24 23 19 29 21 18 26 23 21 25 22 22 31 28 27 24 29 25 30 27 25 29 26 29

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $389

CHEFCHAOUEN

HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS

AÏT BENHADDOU

It’s big. It’s blue. And it’s beautiful. Climb the nearby mountains for an aerial view.

The highest mountain range in North Africa. Fuel your trek with local Berber cuisine.

Only five families remain living in this once populous fortress. Check out the local café to meet one.

DAYS 1-4 Casablanca / Tangier / Chefchaouen / Volubilis Casablanca is where you’ll meet your group before heading off to Tangier for a guided tour of the medina. Continue on to Chefchaouen for a free day of wandering around, then soak in the blue city from above by opting to climb either the Rif Valley Mountains or the top of the Spanish Mosque. Lunch is at the G for Good Meknes Community Lunch initiative. Proceeds from your visit support the rural workers and indirectly aid a health and education programme in the area, so it’s an afternoon well spent. (3B, L)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Guided tours of Tangier, Volubilis, Fes medina & Marrakech medina • Sahara Desert excursion with camel ride • Walk of Todra Gorge with overnight stay • Aroumd village walk (High Atlas) • G for Good Meknes community lunch

DAYS 5-7 Fes / Merzouga / Sahara Desert Take a guided tour of the Roman ruins of Volubilis and continue to Fes, home to the world’s largest living medieval medina. Hundreds of vats and hanging hides are nestled closely together at the city’s open-air tanneries, which are believed to be the oldest in the world. Journey to the Sahara on Day 6, and then stretch your legs the next day by exploring the sand dunes either by foot or 4WD. Finish off the day by hopping on a camel and riding into the sunset... and then back to your hotel afterward, of course. You can’t run away with the camel - that would be crazy! (3B, 2D)

DAYS 8-10 Todra Gorge / Aït Benhaddou / High Atlas Mountains The next few days will have you on your feet as you hike through some of Morocco’s best natural landscapes. Indulge in local Berber cuisine as you pass through the Todra Gorge, the Route of 1,000 Kasbahs, Aït Benhaddou, the High Atlas Mountains, Toubkal National Park and the village of Aroumd. In the village, head to a simple mountain gîte (Berber guesthouse) and tuck in to a tasty local dinner. If the cuisine is what’s kept you moving through the mountains, opt for a tagine cooking class and take Moroccan food into your own hands. (3B, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Climb Mt. Toubkal (7 days, Marrakech - Marrakech) (GADCCT)

Fr $619

S PA I N

DAYS 11-15 High Atlas Mountains / Essaouira / Marrakech Head to the Atlantic beaches of Essaouira and fill two days with free time. Known as the windy city of Morocco, life is simple here as you stroll the old Portuguese port and medina before eating local seafood. The last few days of your Moroccan adventure are spent in Marrakech. Get your bearings in the medina on a guided tour. Djemaa el-Fna Square is the heart of the city where local musicians and street performers gather. Wind down with a free day before departing at any time on Day 15. (5B)

Tangier Chefchaouen

Fes

Tour Code: GADCMH

Volubilis

Casablanca M O RO CCO

Marrakech Essaouira

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (13 nts), multi-share gîte (1 nt)

14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

Air con van, camel

Todra Gorge

Aït High Benhaddou Atlas Mountains

Merzouga

A LG E R I A

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

RUSSIA

ULAANBAATAR MONGOLIA

UZBEKISTAN

KYRGYZSTAN

BEIJING SEOUL

TAJIKISTAN SOUTH KOREA

XI’AN

CHINA

SHANGHAI CHENGDU NEPAL

NEW DELHI

KATHMANDU

KUNMING

TAIPEI GUANGZHOU

INDIA

MANDALAY KOLKATA

BAGAN MYANMAR

MUMBAI

HONG KONG

HANOI LAOS

TAIWAN

PHILIPPINES

CHIANG MAI VIENTIANE YANGON

HOI AN

THAILAND

BANGKOK

MANILA

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

GOA

BORACAY PHNOM PENH

HO CHI MINH CITY

PALAWAN

KOH SAMUI SRI LANKA

COLOMBO

PHANG-NGA

PHUKET

KOH PHI PHI KOTA KINABALU

LANGKAWI MALAYSIA

MALDIVES

KUALA LUMPUR SINGAPORE

KUCHING

MALAYSIAN BORNEO

INDONESIAN BORNEO

INDONESIA

JAKARTA BALI

LOMBOK

WE LOVE >>>>>

SAPPORO

FOOD ETIQUETTE, JAPAN

JAPAN

Throw your manners out the window and forget everything your nan taught you. Here in Japan, your noodles are meant to be slurped. The louder the better.

TOKYO

See more of Japan on pages 117-121.

OSAKA

DIVING, THAILAND

The former pirate hideout of Koh Tao boasts some of Thailand's best dive sites, plus a rare chance to see endangered whale sharks. See more of Thailand on pages 100-104. MONKEY FOREST, INDONESIA

Ubud's Monkey Forest is home to 500 Balinese long-tailed macques as well as the fab family-run Komaneka Fine Art Gallery. See more of Indonesia on pages 109-111.

ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA

Cambodia's epic temple complexes and 'Tomb Raider' backdrop is the only building to feature on a national flag. See more of Cambodia on pages 96-97 & 106.

DIM SUM, CHINA & HONG KONG

A staple of Chinese dining culture, especially in Hong Kong where many restaurants start serving as early as 5am! PAPUA NEW GUINEA

See more of China and Hong Kong on pages 113-115.

ASIA

ASIAN ADVENTURE EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $2,579

DURATION 16 DAYS

ROUTE BANGKOK - SIEM REAP

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Discoverer

ASIA

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, local English-

speaking guides GROUP SIZE: Max 30

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

03 07 06 03 08 05 03 07 04 02 06 04 01 05 05 16 14 13 10 22 12 10 21 11 9 13 07 04 12 12 10 21 20 17 19 17 18 16 20 11 08 19 19 13 28 27 24 26 24 25 23 27 14 15 26 26 17 30 21 22 24 28 29

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

HIGHLIGHTS

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $680

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL STAY

CONTIKI CARES

ANGKOR WAT

Did someone say floating hotel? Bed down on the river in Kanchanaburi and enjoy dinner by the water.

Support sustainable tourism practices at Sai Yok’s Elephant Haven, and learn about the lives and habits of resident ellies.

Visit the world’s largest religious monument, and watch the sun set behind the iconic towers.

DAYS 1-4 Bangkok / Kanchanaburi / Ayutthaya / Chiang Mai

• Grand Palace & klong longtail boat tour • Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom & Ta Prohm • Erawan Waterfall visit • Bike tours in Ayutthaya & Luang Prabang • Pakbeng river cruise • Sai Yok Elephant Sanctuary • Visits to Erawan Falls, Bridge on the River Kwai, Sai Yok Elephant Sanctuary, Ock Pop Tock Institute, Luang Stupa & Cheoung Ek Genocide Museum

Big, booming Bangkok is your gateway to Asia and the group’s meeting place. Start Day 2 with a visit to the Grand Palace and explore the klongs on a longtail boat. Continue to Kanchanaburi and learn about the region’s chequered past with a visit to the Death Railway Museum and Bridge on the River Kwai, then take a jungle raft to your hotel for dinner. The next day, trek to Erawan Falls, visit a nearby elephant sanctuary then continue to Ayutthaya, known for its temple ruins. On Day 4, explore the town by bike then take the night train to Chiang Mai. (3B, L, D)

DAYS 5-8 Chiang Mai / Pakbeng / Luang Prabang Laid-back Chiang Mai is famous for Buddhist rituals, traditional architecture and night markets. You’ll spend the next couple of days here at leisure, getting the chance to explore on your own. Or, add on an after-dark Vespa tour for a taste of the night street food scene. The next morning, hop across the border into Laos and journey to the remote town of Pakbeng. From here, it’s on to Luang Prabang. Enjoy an included bike tour, visit the Pak Ou Caves and see gold-spired temples, monks in colourful robes and the Wat Xieng Thong Monastery. (4B, 2L, D)

DAYS 9-12 Vang Vieng / Vientiane Today, it’s on to riverside Vang Vieng, a backpacker’s heaven surrounded by limestone karsts. Explore Laos’ outdoor activity capital by bike, or don your swimming gear and dive into one of its many swimming holes. At the end of a - let’s face it - not too taxing day, check out the vibrant nightlife. On Day 12, continue on to Vientiane, the capital of Laos and home to cheap and cheerful spas (yes please) and a gorgeous Old Quarter. There’s none of your usual capital city chaos here, and the quaint Mekong town is cherished for its laid-back vibe. Visit the COPE support and rehab centre, the religious symbol of Pha That Luang and the Patuxai War Monument. (4B, L)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Shorten your trip Cambodia & Laos Uncovered (9 days, Luang Prabang - Siem Reap) (COLAKH) Fr $1,259 Thai Islands option Total Thailand (15 days, Bangkok - Phuket) (COTHNS) Fr $2,905

DAYS 13-16 Phnom Penh / Siem Reap A quick flight takes you to the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh. Learn about the Khmer Rouge regime with a CO U N T RY N A M E visit to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Tonight, dinner is at the Tree Alliance Restaurant, a project that helps disadvantaged young people to be trained in hospitality. The following day, fly to Siem Reap and the incredible 13th-century temple complex of Angkor Wat. Check out the Ta Promh Temple then head back into town to enjoy your last night. Your trip ends after breakfast on Day 16. (4B, D)

Pakbeng

Vang Vieng

Chiang Mai

Vientianne L AO S

Tour Code: COASAD

Luang Prabang

T H A I L A N D

Ayutthaya Kanchanaburi

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

3-4* hotels (12 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), floating hotel (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt)

15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Private coach, plane, train, boat

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Bangkok

Siem Reap Phnom Penh

C A M B O D I A

DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ASIA DURATION 18 DAYS

PRICE FR $3,899

ROUTE BANGKOK - SIEM REAP

ASIA

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 10 DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,239

HIGHLIGHTS

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

G FOR GOOD

COOKING CLASS

HALONG BAY

All proceeds from your lunch at Siem Reap’s New Hope Restaurant fund free education for 1,000 students.

Learn how to make traditional Thai dishes in Chiang Mai. The best part is you get to eat what you make after!

Hop aboard a traditional junk boat and indulge on fresh seafood as you cruise the serene, turquoise waters.

DAYS 1-4 Bangkok / Chiang Mai Ease into Bangkok’s frenetic pace with an included arrival transfer. The next morning, take a boat cruise along the city’s klongs, gliding past gilded temples and modern skyscrapers. Later, explore the Grand Palace and see the sacred Emerald Buddha statue at Wat Phra Kaew before flying to Chiang Mai. On Day 3, visit a local market to select ingredients for a Thai cooking class, then meet a Buddhist monk at a historic temple. Continue the spiritual theme with a trip to Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most spectacular temples. After a free morning on Day 4, travel to a small village for a khantok-style dinner and chat with your hosts about life in rural Thailand. (3B, L, D)

DAYS 5-8 Luang Prabang / Hanoi Fly to UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, a leafy Laotian city nestled on the banks of the Mekong River, and get your bearings with an orientation walk. It’s an early start on Day 6 as you observe almsgiving, a daily ritual where monks walk through the streets collecting offerings of food from locals in exchange for blessings. Later, explore the Pak Ou Caves by boat. On Day 7, head into the countryside to Kuang Si Waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip in the tiered green pools. Catch an afternoon flight to Vietnam’s capital Hanoi on Day 8. (4B)

DAYS 9-12 Halong Bay / Hanoi / Ho Chi Minh City Visit to the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, one of Vietnam’s most influential political leaders, before heading to Halong Bay where thousands of sculpted limestone karsts rise from turquoise waters. Spend the night aboard a traditional junk boat and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner. On Day 10, return to Hanoi for lunch at Hoa Sua, a training school for disadvantaged youths, then tour the Old Quarter by cyclo. After a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City and another cyclo ride, shuffle through the Cu Chi Tunnels and discover what life was like during the Vietnam War. (4B, 2L, D)

• Khmer lunch at G for Good’s New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant • Bangkok tour and klong boat ride • Cambodian circus performance and talk • Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai • Meet a Buddhist monk in Chiang Mai • Halong Bay overnight boat cruise • 2-day Angkor Wat excursion • Orientation walks of Chiang Mai & Siem Reap • Cyclo tours of Hanoi Old Town, Ho Chi Minh City & Phnom Penh • Guided tours of Luang Prubang, Cu Chi Tunnels, Tuol Sleng Prison & Choeung Ek Memorial • Visits to Grand Palace, Doi Suthep Temple, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Kuang Si Falls, Pak Ou Caves & night markets

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Shorten your trip The heart of Myanmar (12 days, Yangon - Yangon) (GAABANG) V I E T N A M

Hanoi

DAYS 13-18 Phnom Penh / Angkor Wat Your last flight takes you to the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh. Enjoy a NGO-supported cyclo tour around the city, then learn about the country’s dark past with visits to Tuol Sleng Prison and Choeung Ek Memorial. Drive to Siem Reap on Day 15 and take an orientation walk upon arrival. The next two days are spent exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. Cap it all off with a traditional lunch at G for Good’s New Hope Training Restaurant, followed by a Cambodian circus performance. Depart on Day 18. (6B, L)

Fr $2,999

Luang Prabang Chiang Mai

Halong Bay

L AO S

Tour Code: GAATING

T H A I L A N D

Bangkok ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (16 nts), junk boat (1 nt)

17 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners

Private vehicle, first-class public bus, boat, tuk tuk, plane, cyclo, traditional junk boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Siem Reap Angkor Wat Phnom Penh

C A M B O D I A

Ho Chi Minh City

BANGKOK TO SINGAPORE: MARKETS & PAD THAI SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE BANGKOK - SINGAPORE

ASIA

PRICE FR $1,299

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 10

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Apr

LES AP

Y, PL

Mar

Jan

Feb

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)

01 05 04 01 02 03 01 01 02 03 02 02 02 03 03 04 08 07 04 06 06 04 03 05 07 04 05 06 06 06 06 12 11 08 09 10 06 05 09 10 07 09 09 10 10 07 15 14 11 13 13 08 08 12 14 11 12 13 13 13 08 19 18 15 16 17 11 12 16 17 14 14 16 17 17 15 22 21 18 10 20 13 15 19 21 18 16 20 20 20 22 26 25 22 23 24 15 17 23 24 21 19 23 24 24 29 29 28 25 27 27 18 19 26 28 23 23 27 27 27 29 30 20 22 30 31 25 26 30 31 22 26 28 30 25 29 27 29

KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

CHENDEROH LAKE HOMESTAY

BANGKOK STREET FOOD

Enjoy gorgeous surroundings and plenty of optional activities.

Get to know the locals on a homestay in the middle of a lake.

Slurp your way through Bangkok’s food stalls on a guided tour.

DAYS 1-2 Bangkok / Surat Thani Bangkok is a pretty noisy and hectic city and, as many people’s first foray into Southeast Asian life, it can be a bit of a jolt to the senses. Not such a bad thing when it’s your sense of taste, as you’ll see on your first street food crawl on Day 2. Explore the city on your own terms, with the rest of the day free for optional activities like visits to Wat Po Temple or the Grand Palace. Tonight, take the overnight train to Surat Thani. (B)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Chenderoh Lake homestay • Ang Thong Marine Park island hopping • 2 street food crawls

DAYS 3-5 Khao Sok National Park / Koh Samui Pull into Surat Thani this morning, and make straight for Khao Sok. Opt to go hiking or swimming in Khao Sok National Park, a diverse area of natural beauty and the perfect spot for anyone who wants to chill out in a riverside hammock watching monkeys take their afternoon bath... so everyone. On Day 4, take a ferry to Koh Samui and explore the island’s beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Take a day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park to soak up the views and opt for a snorkelling session if the tide is right. (2B, L)

DAYS 6-9 Georgetown / Chenderoh Lake / Cameron Highlands Cross into Malaysia and take a scenic boat trip through a sheltered archipelago to arrive in Penang. The winding streets of George Town are best explored by bicycle rickshaw. Check out the fort’s colonial architecture, pop into the colourful Indian Quarter and visit lively Chinatown. Indulge in a meal at the waterfront’s bustling night markets with a fusion of Chinese, Malay and Indian food on offer. On Day 8, travel to a local island homestay in the middle of a scenic lake. Spend the evening connecting with the locals and taking in the scenery. (2B, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Southeast Asia: Hilltribes & Street Food (21 days, Bangkok - Singapore) (GAATRA) Fr $1,879 Laos & Thailand: Tuk-Tuks & Thai Curry (11 days, Vientiane - Bangkok) (GAALVB) Fr $819

DAYS 10-14 Kuala Lumpur / Malacca / Singapore There’s tons to see and do in Kuala Lumpur. Stare up at two of the world’s tallest buildings, explore the famous Batu Caves or check out the Orang Asli Museum. Evenings are best spent sampling some of the finest cuisine in Southeast Asia and bargain-hunting in Chinatown’s night market. With its historic fusion of Chinese, Indian, Malay and Portuguese influences, Malacca remains one of Malaysia’s great destinations. Take a boat ride along the canals or see local historic parks on Day 12. Cross into Singapore where you’ll have a free afternoon to explore the city’s many attractions. Take some time to wander the streets of Little India. Splash out on your last night with a legendary Singapore Sling cocktail at the famous Raffles Hotel. (B)

Tour Code: GAATRM

Bangkok

T H A I L A N D

Surat Thani Khao Sok N.P.

Penang

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotel or multi-share hostel (10 nts), basic bungalows (2 nts), sleeper train (1 nt)

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Train, local bus, minibus, ferry, songthaew, taxi

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Koh Samui

Chenderoh Lake Cameron Highlands

Kuala Lumpur

M A L AYS I A

Malacca

Singapore

SINGAPORE SIN G FOR YOU R SLIN G

GLAMPACKER

HOTEL MI

$124 $62

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

PENINSULA EXCELSIOR

ROOM ONLY

$181 $91

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ASIA

Often labelled as Southeast Asia’s most important financial hub, it could be easy to dismiss Singapore as soulless or dull. But this couldn’t be further than the truth. The city’s rich mixture of Asian (Chinese, Indian and Malay) and Western cultures results in intriguing blends and contrasts found nowhere else in the world. Explore vibrant gardens and temples, wander along the cosmopolitan harbourfront and eat your way through hordes of hawker houses.

CLASS ACT

RENDEZVOUS HOTEL SINGAPORE

ROOM ONLY

$233 $117

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: A handy spot in Bencoolen, a

LOCATION: Centrally located, close to Boat

LOCATION: Singapore’s art and heritage

short walk from shopping and cultural sites.

Quay and Singapore National Museum.

district, a short walk from National Museum.

VIBE: Cool as a cucumber and a great spot

VIBE: Two-towered hotel with two pools

VIBE: Art-inspired, bright and spacious

for some quiet in the city.

and panoramic views overlooking the city.

rooms with stylish common areas.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con •

Outdoor pool • Restaurant • Gym • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

In-room safe • 2 outdoor pools • Café • Music lounges • Gym

In-room safe • Outdoor pool • Bar • Restaurant • Gym • 24-hour reception

SINHMI

BOSS HOTEL

STAY 4 PAY 3: 01JAN20-09FEB20 & 17FEB20-31MAR20

SINPEN

EARLYBIRD OFFER: 15% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK 45+ DAYS IN ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL 01JAN20-10FEB20 & 17FEB20-30MAR20

SINRHS

- TOP SELLER -

ROCK SOLID

$119 $60

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

FURAMA CITY CENTRE

ROOM ONLY

$181 $91

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Victoria Street, right in central Singapore and between

LOCATION: Close to the entertainment district of Clarke Quay

the eclectic cultural areas of Little India and Kampong Glam.

and only a short stroll from the throngs of Chinatown.

VIBE: Home to 1,500 comfy rooms with a bustling vibe in the

VIBE: Splash about while overlooking the city skyline, then rest

spacious common areas. Contemporary and stylish throughout.

up in your room with views of the city, garden or pool.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Outdoor pool • Sky

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • 24-hour

terrace • Garden • Bar • Restaurant • Gym • Self-service laundrette • 24-hour reception • Express check-in/check-out

room service • Outdoor pool • Sun terrace • Restaurant • Café • Lounge • Gym • 24-hour reception

VBOSSH

STAY 3 PAY 2, STAY 4 PAY 3: 01JAN20-31MAR21 (BLACKOUT DATES APPLY); EARLYBIRD OFFER: 20% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK 60+ DAYS IN ADVANCE & 15% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK 30+ DAYS IN ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL 01JAN20-31MAR21 (BLACKOUT DATES APPLY); HONEYMOON OFFERS AVAILABLE

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

SINFUR

BANGKOK PAG ODA S AND PAD THA I

ASIA

Golden palaces, giant Buddhas, floating markets and magnificent porcelain-laid spires… you’ve never seen a capital city quite like Bangkok. Aside from bar hopping and eating as much pad thai as you possibly can on Khao San Road, there’s plenty to do here. Whether it’s temples, palaces, shrines or markets you want to explore, Bangkok ticks all the right boxes. No wonder many backpackers kick off their Asian adventure here!

ROCK SOLID

IBIS STYLES BANGKOK KHAO SAN VIENGTAI

$107 $54

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

NOUVO CITY HOTEL

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

$106 $56

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Surrounded by 200-year-old buildings of the Old

LOCATION: Next to Banglamphu Canal in Old Bangkok City, a

Town, a block from the action of Khao San Road.

ten-minute walk from Khao San Road.

VIBE: Comfy, brightly coloured rooms and funky outdoor spaces,

VIBE: With 270 light and airy rooms and a popular rooftop pool,

perfect for a short stopover or a longer stay.

this modern hotel offers respite from the city heat.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Flatscreen

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Blackout curtains •

TV • Outdoor pool • Bar • Café • Bakery • Terrace • Luggage storage • Daily housekeeping • Movie nights • 24-hour reception

Rooftop pool • Canalside pool • Restaurant • Spa • Sauna • Gym • 24-hour reception • Free shuttle service to shopping districts

EARLYBIRD OFFER: 15% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK 21+ DAYS IN ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL 01NOV19 - 31OCT20

BKKNCH

STAY 3 PAY 2: 16APR20-30JUN20 & 01SEP20-31OCT20

- TOP SELLER CLASS ACT

CLASS ACT

REMBRANDT HOTEL BANGKOK

$91 $46

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

SIAM@SIAM DESIGN HOTEL BANGKOK

$177 $89

SINGLE

LOCATION: Based in Sukhumvit, this area is brimming with

LOCATION: Only a few minutes by foot from energetic Siam

award-winning restaurants, bars and the country’s best malls.

Square, MBK Mall and National Stadium BTS Skytrain station.

VIBE: Classy inner city sanctuary offering cocktails on the

VIBE: Cutting-edge design, futuristic style and awesome views

rooftop, Thai cooking classes and 407 bright and spacious rooms.

from the floor-to-ceiling windows - this is a slick hotel.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Rooftop pool • Poolside

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Infinity pool • 2 bars •

bar • Lobby bar with live piano • 3 restaurants • Massage services • Spa • Gym • Free tuk tuk service to Sukhumvit Road

3 restaurants • Live music lounge • Terrace • Gym • Luggage storage • Laundry • 24-hour reception

EARLYBIRD OFFER: 10% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK 45+ DAYS IN ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL HONEYMOON OFFERS AVAILABLE

100

TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

ROOM ONLY

BKKREM

STAY 4 PAY 3: 01APR20-31MAR21 (BLACKOUT DATES APPLY); HONEYMOON OFFER AVAILABLE

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

BKKSIA

TUK TUK & HILLTRIBE ADVENTURE

NORTHERN THAI HIGHLIGHTS

PRICE

DURATION

ROUTE

PRICE

DURATION

ROUTE

FR $421

3 DAYS

CHIANG MAI - CHIANG MAI

FR $1,315

8 DAYS

BANGKOK - CHIANG MAI

ASIA

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35S

Part bike, part shed, part living on the edge. Tuk tuks are the only way to roll in Thailand and now you get to drive one! Get behind the wheel and inject some character into your A to B commute with this three-day trip. Following rural roads and mountain passes, you’ll navigate through gorgeous countryside, all while learning some top tuk tuk driving tips. Plus, you’ll spend both nights at some great locations. Enjoy a Thai BBQ amongst green rice terraces, take part in a Karen jungle cooking class and experience life in a hilltribe village. And your legs aren’t completely off the hook, thanks to that trek in Doi Inthanon National Park.

Starting in buzzing Bangkok, this eight-day trip takes you north to the picturesque highlands. Jump straight in with visits to Wat Arun Temple and the Grand Palace, then travel to Kanchanaburi to see the WWII Cemetery and Bridge on the River Kwai. Your digs here will be a candle-lit room on a floating raft hotel! On Day 3, hike to Erawan Falls and cycle around the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ayutthaya. Your next two days are spent in the laid-back mountain town of Pai. Why not treat yourself to a Thai massage? Next, meet the residents of the Elephant Nature Park. Your tour wraps up in Chiang Mai where you can try tasty street eats or sign up for a cooking class. INCLUSIONS

Departs: Selected Sundays Accommodation: Twin-share hotels (5 nts), overnight train (1 nt), floating raft (1 nt) Meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Inclusions: Grand Palace tour, Ayutthaya bike ride, visits to Erawan N.P. & Elephant Nature Park Tour Code: COTHNO

INCLUSIONS

Departs: Typically 2 departures per month Accommodation: Camping (1 nt), rural lodge (1 nt) Meals: 3 lunches, 2 dinners Note: All drivers must bring an International Driving Permit with them Tour Code: CNXTU3

BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI EXPRESS PRICE FR $779

DURATION 7 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE BANGKOK - CHIANG MAI

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Overnight rafthouse excursion, visits to Wat Pho, Erawan Falls, Bridge on the River Kwai, Thai-Burma Railway Centre, Allied War Cemetery & Doi Suthep Temple, Ayutthaya ruins tour

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: Selected Mondays and Saturdays, occasional Wednesdays

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $179

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAY 1 Bangkok

DAYS 4-5 Ayutthaya

Arrive at any time and get your first taste of Bangkok, from backpacker pubs and lavish rooftop bars to luxury shopping malls and open-air markets. If this is your first time in the Thai capital, it may take some getting used to. So go easy! Meet your group this evening and get the lowdown on the upcoming week from your Chief Experience Officer (CEO).

Travel to Ayutthaya and see the city’s historical sites, including the Chan Kasem National Museum - a former palace and now home to an extensive collection of artefacts - and Wat Chaiwatthanaram Temple. If time allows, head along to the Chao Sam Phraya Museum and spend the rest of the day exploring the area before boarding an overnight train north to Chiang Mai. (2B)

DAYS 2-3 Kanchanaburi

DAYS 6-7 Chiang Mai

Make the short journey from the electric streets of Bangkok to the leafy surrounds of Kanchanaburi where you’ll spend the night aboard a floating rafthouse. On Day 3, visit the Bridge on the River Kwai and see Erawan Falls, where you can cool off in one of the many emeraldhued pools after a hike in the jungle. (2B, D)

Arrive in Chiang Mai and venture to Doi Suthep in the afternoon, a stunning national park home to diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls and a striking temple. Depart at any time on Day 7 or stay on and continue by yourself. (B)

Chiang Mai

T H A I L A N D

Tour Code: GAATNR Kanchanaburi

Ayutthaya

Bangkok ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels/guesthouses (4 nts), rafthouse (1 nt), sleeper train (1 nt)

5 breakfasts 1 dinner

Train, private van

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

101

NORTHERN THAILAND: HILLTRIBES & VILLAGES PRICE FR $599

ROUTE BANGKOK - BANGKOK

DURATION 8 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), trekking staff GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Hilltribe trek, bamboo rafting, street food crawl

E PA SE

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

01 01 04 01 02 02 01 01 02 03 04 01 02 03 03 10 08 11 08 06 06 07 05 09 07 07 05 09 06 06 15 15 14 14 13 13 13 10 15 14 14 12 13 10 10 19 22 21 18 19 17 19 15 23 25 18 16 27 24 24 28 26 26 25 24 24 29 29 29 29 28 30 30 27 31

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

DAYS 1-2 Bangkok

DAYS 4-6 Hilltribe Trek

Touch down in the Thai capital at any time on Day 1 and head out in search of some street food. The next day, opt to visit Wat Po (a temple believed to be the birthplace of Thai massage), the Grand Palace or the atmospheric backstreet klongs (canals). Later on, take the overnight train north to Chiang Mai - the rocking motion will send you straight to sleep. (B)

Spend three days trekking through Northern Thailand’s rolling hillsides and meet the region’s diverse tribes, each with their own culture, traditions, language and style of dress. Learn how the Karen people make traditional baskets and scarves, then float down the river on a bamboo raft. (3B, 3L, 2D)

DAY 3 Chiang Mai After a surprisingly good slumber, pull into Chiang Mai, possibly the most culturally significant of the northern cities. A long-term travellers’ favourite, you’ll soon see why visitors flock here. Choose to visit the famous Doi Suthep Temple, wander through the Old City or learn how to make pad thai in an authentic cooking class.

DAY 7-8 Chiang Mai / Bangkok Back in the Rose of the North, you’ll have free time to hunt for trinkets and souvenirs at the buzzing night bazaar or indulge in a relaxing post-trek massage. That evening, board the overnight train back to Bangkok where your tour ends on Day 8. (B)

Hilltribe Trek

Chiang Mai

T H A I L A N D

Tour Code: GAATHV

Bangkok ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotel or multi-share hostel (3 nts), multi-share hilltribe huts (2 nts), sleeper trains (2 nts)

5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Local bus, songthaew, train, raft

SOUTHERN THAILAND SOJOURN: NIGHTLIFE & NATIONAL PARKS PRICE FR $599

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE BANGKOK - KOH TAO

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visit to Kao Thep Pitak community-owned farm and restaurant, street food crawl, Lake Cheow Larn excursion, snorkelling trip in Koh Tao

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: Selected Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays (Jan), selected Wednesdays and Saturdays & occasional Tuesdays and Thursdays, Fridays & Sundays (Feb20-Mar21)

ILI

ASIA

ELIGIB

GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-2 Bangkok / Surat Thani

DAYS 4-5 Koh Phangan

The heat and hustle of Bangkok will hit you as soon as you land. Meet the rest of your group at your hotel then head out to sample some the city’s notorious nightlife. Day 2, check out Wat Po Temple and the Grand Palace, practise your haggling skills at one of the many markets or explore the klongs by boat before a street food crawl. This evening, take an overnight train south. (B)

Sail across to the party island of Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand. This backpacker hotspot is all about beach bars, incredible sunset spots and secret lagoons. If the timing is right, you might even catch a Full Moon Party, so bring some neon face paint. (B)

DAY 3 Khao Sok National Park After breakfast at the G for Good Kao Thep Pitak community-owned farm, continue to Khao Sok. If there was ever a place to put a hammock, it would be here. Hike through one of the oldest rainforests in the world, paddle around freshwater lakes and watch monkeys bathe in the river. A paradise for outdoorsy types! (B, L)

Bangkok

DAYS 6-8 Koh Tao Hop on the ferry to laid-back Koh Tao for an included afternoon snorkelling trip around some of the world’s best reefs. Spend the rest of your time here relaxing or, if you’re feeling adventurous, opt to try scuba diving. Depart any time after breakfast on Day 8. (2B, L)

Koh Tao

Tour Code: GAATSS

Koh Phangan

Khao Sok N.P.

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

102

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels or multi-share hostels (5 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), simple bungalows (1 nt)

5 breakfasts, 2 lunches

Train, local bus, air con bus, boat, tuk tuk, songthaew, taxi, ferry

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Thailand Full Moon Party: Beach Parties & National Parks 8 days (GAATMP) Fr $749

THAI INTRO SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

PRICE FR $832

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE BANGKOK - KOH PHANGAN

ASIA

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Small Group Adventure AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Group leader, local guides GROUP SIZE: Min 4, Max 22

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

05 03 01 01 01 02 01 02 01 04 02 02 07 05 04 04 03 05 03 05 03 07 04 04 10 07 06 08 06 07 05 08 06 09 07 07 13 09 09 10 09 10 08 11 09 10 10 10 17 12 14 11 14 13 11 13 12 16 13 12 19 15 17 15 17 16 14 15 16 19 16 21 18 19 17 20 18 16 17 19 22 18 23 23 21 19 23 21 18 20 23 25 20 26 26 25 21 25 23 20 22 26 27 24 29 28 28 24 27 26 23 24 28 30 26 31 30 26 31 29 25 27 29 28 30

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

KOH PHANGAN

THAI MASSAGE

Stay in a floating bungalow in serene Khao Sok National Park.

Each month, the island hosts up to 30,000 Full Moon revellers.

Treat travel-weary limbs to a traditional Thai massage in Koh Phangan.

DAYS 1-2 Bangkok No trip to Thailand would be complete without a few days in Bangkok! Luckily, the fast-paced capital is the starting point of this tour. Arrive at any time on Day 1 and take an included transfer to your guesthouse where you’ll meet the rest of your group. The next morning, ease yourself in with a leisurely boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River, then hold on to your hats as you zig zag through traffic-filled streets by tuk tuk to some of Bangkok’s best sights. See the enormous reclining Buddha of Wat Po (the oldest and largest temple complex in Bangkok) and get blessed by Thai monks. Later, head out to Khao San Road to experience its buzzing atmosphere and ridiculously cheap drinks. $2 for a beer? We’ll drink to that!

• Bangkok river cruise and tuk tuk tour • Thai cooking class • Overnight stay at a floating bungalow • Tubing and kayaking • Muay Thai or yoga class • Thai massage • Beach BBQ • Airport pick-up

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

DAYS 3-4 Bangkok / Khao Sok National Park Today, learn the secrets of preparing Thai food with a traditional cooking class. You’ll eat whatever you create, so go easy on the spice! With our bellies full, it’s time to escape the heat and hustle of the city and make for the tranquil countryside. Catch an overnight train to Khao Sok National Park, then transfer by longtail boat to your home for the night - a bamboo bungalow floating on a freshwater lake. Interspersed with hidden waterfalls and caves, this lush jungle is home to wild elephants, gibbons and boars. Wake up to views of towering limestone cliffs and enjoy a much slower pace on Day 4. You can opt to go swimming, kayaking or tubing. It’s the perfect precursor to a few days of beach-bumming! (2L, D)

DAYS 5-9 Koh Phangan

Extend your trip Thai Intro (12 days, Bangkok - Koh Phi Phi) (BKKPHI Fr $1,088 Thai Intro (18 days, Bangkok - Chiang Mai) (BKKINR) Fr $1,600

Ferry over to the hedonistic island of Koh Phangan. Made up of countless sandy beaches, vast areas of inland jungle and more bars than you can shake a bucket of SangSom at, it’s no surprise that this party-centric paradise is a firm favourite with backpackers. Spend the next four days living the island lifestyle. Bed down in a beachside bungalow, snorkel fish-filled reefs and treat travel-weary limbs with a Thai massage. If timed right, you may catch one of the famous Full Moon or Half Moon parties. Bring neon face paint and be prepared to lose a flip flop. The sea is your perfect hangover cure, so be sure to get plenty of swimming done in those refreshing waters. On Day 8, choose to learn the art of Muay Thai or bring some peace and harmony to your busy itinerary with a yoga session. Depart on Day 9, or you know, stay? (B, L, 2D) Tour Code: BKKINT

Bangkok

T H A I L A N D

Koh Phangan

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Guesthouses (2 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), floating bungalow (1 nt), beach bungalow (4 nts)

1 breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Train, bus, boat, tuk tuk

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Khao Sok N.P.

103

THAILAND ISLAND HOPPING - WEST COAST PRICE FR $1,129

ROUTE BANGKOK - BANGKOK

DURATION 8 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12

GE 10

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Mar 21

Feb 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

05 02 01 05 12 09 08 12 15 12 13 19 19 16 15 22 26 23 22 26

01 06 03 07 07 08 13 10 09 14 12 20 17 16 21 22 22 24 21 28 26 29 31 28

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $459

DAY 1 Bangkok

DAYS 4-5 Koh Lanta

Arrive in Bangkok at any time, where you’re free to discover the many markets, shopping centres and temples before meeting your group this evening. Don’t be put off by the city’s frantic pace; the rest of the week is going to be peachy (and beachy).

Day 4 takes you to the secluded island of Koh Lanta, well off of the tourist trail. Enjoy plenty of chill time here and tuck into a beach barbecue with your group. The next day, opt to visit the unspoiled island of Koh Rok for some great snorkelling. (2B, D)

DAYS 2-3 Koh Ngai

DAYS 6-8 Ao Nang

Let the island vibes commence. Take an included flight to Trang then ferry over to the tiny island of Koh Ngai. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and framed by dense jungle, this place really is paradise. Opt to go trekking or simply kick back on the beach. The next day, enjoy an included snorkelling trip to nearby Koh Chuek and discover the Emerald Cave of Koh Mook (surely one of the area’s most beautiful islands). (2B)

The scenic region of Ao Nang boasts plenty of highoctane activities, so if you’re looking for adventure you won’t be disappointed. Choose from scuba diving, climbing, white water rafting and quad biking, then opt for a day trip to Railay Beach, surrounded by jungle and imposing rock faces. Your trip ends on Day 8. (3B)

T H A I L A N D

Bangkok

Tour Code: GAATTW

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Ao Nang

Hotels/guesthouses (7 nts)

7 breakfasts 1 dinner

Air con bus/minivan, longtail boat, ferry, plane

Koh Lanta

THAILAND ISLAND HOPPING - EAST COAST PRICE FR $1,099

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE BANGKOK - KOH TAO

Trang Koh Ngai

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Snorkelling excursion

GE 10

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Bangkok / Koh Samui

DAYS 6-8 Koh Tao

Arrive in Thailand’s capital at any time on Day 1. If you’ve got time to spare, visit the Grand Palace and the backpacker haunt of Khao San Road. On Day 2, fly to the city of Surat Thani and board a ferry to the island of Koh Samui. Kick back on the beach, opt to visit the golden Buddha at Wat Phra Yai Temple or go snorkelling in Ang Thong Marine Park. (2B)

Hop aboard a ferry to Koh Tao, otherwise known as Turtle Island. Although it’s noted as the smallest of the Gulf Islands, it sure packs a punch. This is also the place to come if you’re looking to go diving. Not only is it one of the world’s cheapest places to learn how to dive, but it’s also a great place for spotting migrating whale sharks. They can be seen all year round here, with high season thought to be Mar-May and Oct-Dec. So plan accordingly if that’s high on your list. Enjoy an included snorkelling trip to Koh Nang Yuan, then grab a drink at one of the island’s beach bars that evening. Once you’re feeling sufficiently relaxed and rested, head off on Day 8, or stay on to milk the sunshine. (3B, L)

DAYS 4-5 Koh Phangan Ferry over to the hedonistic haven of Koh Phangan for secret beaches, waterfalls and lagoons. If timed right, let loose on Haad Rin beach at the famous Full Moon Party. Up to 30,000 people show up every month, so you’ll be in good company if you’re down for neon paints, dancing in the sand and cocktails by the buckets. (2B)

Tour Code: GAATBE

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $399

Bangkok

T H A I L A N D

Koh Tao

104

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts 1 lunch

Local bus, minivan/bus, longtail boat, ferry, plane

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Koh Phangan Koh Samui Surat Thani

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

03 07 05 02 06 04 10 14 12 09 13 11 24 28 19 16 27 18 31 26 23 25

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ELIGIB Y

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

THAILAND

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

Jan 21

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Beach barbecue, half-day snorkelling boat trip

CLASSIC MYANMAR ADVENTURE SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

PRICE FR $2,149

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE YANGON - YANGON

ASIA

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

DEPARTS: Sat & occasional Tue (Jan-Mar, Oct-Mar21), selected Sat (Apr-Sep)

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12

LES APP

, LY

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $719

HIGHLIGHTS

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

SHWEDAGON PAGODA

INLE LAKE’S FLOATING VILLAGES

MOUNT POPA

No visit to Myanmar is complete without a visit to this gold pagoda.

Traverse the floating village streets by boat, just as the locals do.

Brave the grabby monkeys to see this sacred monastery in all its glory.

DAYS 1-2 Yangon / Kinpun (Golden Rock) Yangon’s historic streets and colonial-style charm will keep you busy on your first day, then kick off Day 2 with a visit to one of the world’s most iconic pagodas, Shwedagon Pagoda. Take an hour’s hike up to Golden Rock - a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site - for an overnight stay. Your simple but beautifully located hotel awaits at the summit. (B)

DAYS 3-5 Yangon / Mandalay On Day 3 you’ll journey back to Yangon, stopping in Mingaladon to see the reclining Buddha or the Htauk Kyunt War Memorial. Back in Yangon, check out the markets and head to Chinatown for a feast. On Day 4, take an early flight to Mandalay, where you’ll spy the Golden Monastery and Shwenandaw Monastery. Then it’s off to the ancient royal capital of Amarapura. Visit the Mahagandayong Monastery, home to more than 1,000 monks, and travel by boat along the Elephant River to the village of Mingun. Opt to traverse the world’s longest teak bridge it’s more than one kilometre long! (3B)

DAYS 6-10 Bagan / Kalaw Cruising down the Irrawaddy River, you’ll stumble across ancient city Bagan, the first capital of the Burmese people and home to hundreds of temples and stupas. Mix with locals and get your hands on bargain-priced goods at the Nyaung Oo marketplace. A half-day trek up Mt. Popa brings you to Day 9, passing by food stalls and Burmese herbal remedy stores on the way. In Kalaw, meet a local hilltribe, breathe in cooler air and grab some scenic Insta ops. (5B, L)

• Mandalay combo entry ticket (includes most sights in Mandalay) • Bagan Archaeological Zone guided tour • Half-day Inle Lake boat tour, including floating villages • Mingun boat trip • Hilltribe hike • Visits to Shwedagon Pagoda, Golden Rock, Reclining Buddha, Htauk Kyunt War Memorial, Amarapura, Shwemawdaw Stupa, Mahagandayong Monastery, U Bein Bridge & Mt. Popa • Sagaing Hills Meditation Centre • G for Good meal at LinkAge Training Restaurant

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Balloons over Bagan Take to the skies over the temples of Bagan in a hot-air balloon. Fr $365

DAYS 11-14 Inle Lake / Yangon Make for Inle Lake, home to the Intha people. Floating villages and gardens are a must-see in this densely vegetated spot, visiting the Pindaya Caves en route, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. More than 8,000 Buddhas were placed here during the18th and 19th centuries, and it is believed to be the most consistent collection of Buddhist iconography anywhere in Myanmar. On Day 13, fly Myanmar’s length back to Yangon. Bid farewell to your travel group over a traditional dinner later this evening at the G for Good project LinkAge Training Restaurant. This not-for-profit initiative trains children and teenagers in the hospitality industry to help them secure jobs. Travellers here get to visit the restaurant and meet the students who receive housing, counselling and education. Your tour ends on Day 14. (4B, D)

MYA N M A R

Mandalay

Bagan Kalaw

Inle Lake

Tour Code: GAABCB

T H A I L A N D

Golden Rock

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (13 nts)

13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Private bus, public bus, plane, boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Yangon

105

CAMBODIA EXPERIENCE PRICE FR $949

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE HO CHI MINH CITY - BANGKOK

DURATION 9 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Khmer meal at a G for Good project, Mekong Delta trip, Phnom Penh cyclo tour, Tuol Sleng Museum & Killing Fields tour, two-day Angkor Wat complex tour

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: Almost daily (Jan-Mar, Dec-Feb21), 13-19 departures per month (May-Jul, SepOct), 21-25 departures per month (Apr, Aug, Nov, Mar21)

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Ho Chi Minh City / Mekong Delta

DAYS 5-7 Siem Reap / Angkor Wat

Touch down in Ho Chi Minh City at any time and meet your group this evening. The next day, cruise past the villages, islands and floating markets of the Mekong Delta on an included boat trip. Visit traditional candy factories along the way and learn a little about the industry as well as how to snack like a local. (B)

The next three days are spent in Siem Reap visiting Angkor Wat, the former capital of the Khmer Empire. Spend time exploring the vast ruins with a local guide and enjoy a traditional Khmer meal at a G for Goodsupported project. Don’t miss root-covered Ta Prohm (aka Tomb Raider Temple) or the Bayon Temple, which is decorated with 216 gargantuan smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara. (3B, D)

DAYS 3-4 Phnom Penh Cross into Cambodia on Day 3 and make for the capital. Upon arrival, take a cyclo tour of the city. Day 4 starts with sobering visits to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Prison. After, lighten the mood with optional trips to the Royal Palace and the National Museum, or take your haggling skills to the Central or Russian markets. (2B)

DAYS 8-9 Bangkok

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $279

T H A I L A N D

Bangkok

Arrive in bustling Bangkok in time for an optional farewell meal with your group and a final blowout on neon-lit Khao San Road. The tour ends Day 9. (2B)

Tour Code: GAAVCW

Siem Reap / Angkor Wat

Phnom Penh C A M B O D I A

Ho Chi Minh City V I E T N A M

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Local bus, air con bus, cyclo

LAOS: SUNRISES & STREET FOOD PRICE FR $759

DURATION 9 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE VIENTIANE - CHIANG MAI

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Mekong River G for Good homestay & Baci ceremony, guided hike in Vang Vieng, Mekong slow boat, orientation walk & sunset cruise in Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls excursion

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: 19-24 departures per month (JanApr), 16-22 departures per month (May-Aug), 15-20 departures per month (Sep-Dec), 19-26 departures per month (Jan21-Mar21)

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-3 Vientiane / Vang Vieng Begin the tour in the Laotian capital of Vientiane where you can opt to visit the golden Pha That Luang. On Day 2, travel to picturesque Vang Vieng. Situated on the banks of the Nam Song River and backdropped by limestone karsts, it’s one of the country’s most beautiful areas, with plenty of activities on offer. Enjoy a guided hike to Pha Ngeun for amazing views of the valley. (2B)

DAYS 6-7 Mekong River / Pak Beng / Chiang Khong Hop aboard a slow boat for a leisurely cruise down the Mekong on Day 6. Pass by sleepy villages and floating markets, and soak up the region’s stunning scenery. Overnight at a G for Good Mekong River homestay before crossing into Thailand on Day 7. (2B, L, D)

DAYS 8-9 Chiang Mai

DAYS 4-5 Luang Prabang Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, find your bearings with an orientation walk before a sunset cruise on the Mekong River. Rise before dawn to watch Buddhist monks receiving alms from locals, then take a guided excursion to the tiered, turquoise pools of Kuang Si Waterfalls. (2B)

Chiang Khong

Travel to Chiang Mai on Day 8. The city is famous for its street eats, so it would be a crime not to sample some. Look out for Khao Soi (curried noodles) and Sai Ua (spicy sausage). Browse for last minute souvenirs at the famous night market and depart at any time on Day 9.

Tour Code: GAALVC

Mekong River

Vang Vieng

Chiang Mai

Luang Prabang L AO S

Vientiane

T H A I L A N D

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

106

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels or multi-share hostels (7 nts), homestay (1 nt)

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Train, local bus, air con bus, slow boat

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Vietnam & Laos: Homestays & Houseboats 20 days (GAAVSC)

Fr $1,699

CLASSIC VIETNAM SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE HANOI - HO CHI MINH CITY

NEED TO KNOWS

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

PRICE FR $1,169

TRIP STYLE: Classic

ILI

LES APP

, LY

HIGHLIGHTS

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12 DEPARTS: Almost daily (Jan-Mar, NovMar21), 12-15 departures per month (MayJun, Sep), 20-23 departures per month (Apr, Jul-Aug, Oct) MY OWN ROOM : Fr $259

GO WITH THE PHO

HUE

HOI AN

Vietnam’s national dish! A soup made with chicken or beef broth, rice noodles and thinly sliced meat.

On the banks of the Perfume River, this UNESCO-listed site was once the capital of the Nguyen emperors.

This ancient town is an architectural fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and European influences.

DAYS 1-3 Hanoi / Halong Bay / Hanoi If you’re a foodie Hanoi is a must. And even if you’re not, it’s a must. Touch down in Vietnam’s capital at any time on Day 1 and head straight out in search of some street eats. Known as Chicken Street, Ly Van Phuc Street serves up seriously tasty barbecued poultry, while Bat Dan Street is the place to go for Pho - this noodle broth is Vietnam’s national dish. After you’ve boosted your energy levels, make time to explore the Old Quarter, a mish-mash of French colonial and traditional architecture. On Day 2, kick back on an overnight cruise of Halong Bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone karsts rise from the turquoise sea. Go swimming or kayaking before a seafood dinner aboard your traditional junk boat. Catch an overnight sleeper train to Hue on Day 3. (2B, 2L, D)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • G for Good Oodles of Noodles Project noodle-making demonstration • Halong Bay boat cruise • Imperial Citadel & tomb entrance in Hue • Cu Chi Tunnels tour

DAYS 4-7 Hue / Hoi An Intricately decorated pavilions, lotus flower ponds and views of the Perfume River mark Day 4. On arrival in historic Hue, take a guided tour of the Imperial Citadel, Royal Tomb and Tien Mu Pagoda. If you’re feeling adventurous, enjoy an optional motorbike tour of the surrounding countryside. Fun fact: Hue was actually the former capital of Vietnam for 143 years (1802-1945). Sadly, many of its major historic sites were destroyed during the Vietnam War, but the city still retains some legacies of its dynastic past. Travelling over the spectacular Hai Van Pass on Day 5, you’ll eventually reach Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with colourful colonial homes, riverside restaurants and narrow streets strung with silk lanterns. Cooking classes, riverboat trips and bike rides could all be on the agenda. Hoi An is also a shopper’s paradise, so make for one of the many low-cost (but fantastic) tailors and get yourself something snazzy! While you’re here, you’ll also see a noodle-making demonstration at G for Good’s Oodles of Noodles, a project that provides training in hospitality and tourism for at-risk young people in Vietnam. (3B, L,)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Essential Vietnam & Cambodia (17 days, Hanoi - Bangkok) (GAAVEV) Hanoi

DAYS 8-10 Ho Chi Minh City A short flight takes you to hectic Ho Chi Minh City on Day 8. Formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam’s biggest city has an infectious energy, with its scooter-filled streets, blinking neon lights and markets overflowing with local delicacies and souvenirs. Learn about the country’s troubled past with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels on Day 9. See traps, hidden doors and some of the 250 kilometres of tunnels that the Viet Cong dug during the Vietnam War. Other options include the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace or a cyclo tour around the colonial district. Find a rooftop bar and enjoy one last night out with the squad before the tour ends on Day 10. (3B)

Halong Bay

L AO S

Hue

Tour Code: GAAVCH

Fr $2,049

Hoi An

T H A I L A N D

C A M B O D I A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), junk boat (1 nt)

8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner

Train, local bus, air con bus, boat, cyclo, plane

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Ho Chi Minh City

107

EXPLORE VIETNAM PRICE FR $2,049

TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE HANOI - HO CHI MINH CITY

DURATION 13 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 10 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Lantern-making experience, G for Good Oodles of Noodles noodle-making demo & market trip, visits to Hoa Lo Prison & Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, cyclo tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, overnight junk boat cruise in Halong Bay, guided tour of Hue’s Imperial Citadel & Tomb, walking tour of Hoi An Old Town, guided tour of Cu Chi Tunnels DEPARTS: Selected Sundays and occasional Thursdays

DAYS 1-4 Hanoi / Mai Chau

DAYS 8-10 Hoi An

Arrive in Hanoi at any time. Next day, travel to the lush Mai Chau Valley and enjoy a walk through rice paddies and local villages. Options include a cooking class, cycling and kayaking. Return to Hanoi for visits to Hoa Lo Prison and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter. (3B)

Drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An on Day 8. Here, enjoy a walking tour then learn how to make a traditional lantern. After visiting a local market, take a cooking class at Oodles of Noodles, a G for Good culinary training school. Day 10 is free for optional activities such as visiting Tan Ky House or cycling to the beach. (3B, L)

DAYS 5-7 Halong Bay / Hue Start Day 5 with breakfast at Hoa Sua, a training restaurant that helps underprivileged youth gain employment opportunities. After, transfer to the calm waters of Halong Bay to explore secluded coves and caves. After a night spent on board a junk boat, fly to Hue on Day 6. Visit the Imperial Citadel and head to the countryside to see impressive royal tombs. (3B, 2L, D)

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $739

Hanoi Mai Chau

Halong Bay

DAYS 11-13 Ho Chi Minh City Fly to Ho Chi Minh City on Day 11 and opt to take a cyclo tour of the city. The next day, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, famous for their part in the Vietnam War. Your tour ends after breakfast on Day 13. (3B, D)

Tour Code: GAAVHNG

V I E T N A M

Hue Hoi An

T H A I L A N D

C A M B O D I A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (9 nts), junk boat (1 nt), lodge (2 nts)

12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Bus, boat, cyclo, plane

VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS PRICE FR $1,559

Ho Chi Minh City

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE HO CHI MINH CITY - HANOI

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 30 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Hoi An bike ride, Hue cyclo tour, overnight Halong Bay junk boat cruise, visits to War Remnants Museum, Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, Temple of Literature, Sung Sot Caves, Ti Top Islands DEPARTS: Selected Mondays MY OWN ROOM: Fr $490

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35S

DAYS 1-3 Ho Chi Minh City / Nha Trang

DAYS 6-7 Hue / Hanoi

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic and progressive city with lots to see and do. Enjoy your first night trying Vietnamese dishes and experiencing the city’s bustling nightlife. Spend the next morning sightseeing before catching a flight to the beach town of Nha Trang. Optional activities here include a relaxing hot springs experience or snorkelling. (2B)

Upon arrival in Hue, take a cyclo ride to the Imperial Citadel, then visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. Feeling peckish? Join an optional street food tour and sample the city’s specialities. On Day 7, fly to Hanoi and find yourself a sidewalk bar for a bia hoi (draught beer). (2B)

DAYS 4-5 Hoi An After a short flight to Da Nang, drive to UNESCOlisted Hoi An and absorb its blend of Chinese, Japanese and French influences. After a guided bike ride around the Old Town, opt to see the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, visit a tailor for custommade clothes or sign up for a local cooking class. (2B)

Hanoi

Halong Bay

DAYS 8-10 Halong Bay / Hanoi Today, drive to Halong Bay for an overnight cruise on a Chinese-style junk boat, and enjoy a tasty seafood dinner and an evening under the stars. On Day 9, return to Hanoi and spend your final afternoon stocking up on last-minute souvenirs at the local markets. Your trip ends after breakfast on Day 10. (3B, 2L, D)

Tour Code: COVIHI

V I E T N A M

Hue Da Nang

Hoi An

T H A I L A N D

C A M B O D I A

Nha Trang

108

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

3* hotels (8 nts), junk boat (1 nt)

9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner

Private coach, plane, junk boat

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Ho Chi Minh City

BALI INTRO SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

PRICE FR $832

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE KUTA - GILI TRAWANGAN

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Exclusively for 18-39s AGE GROUP: 18-39 GROUP LEADER: Group leader, local guides GROUP SIZE: Min 4, Max 22

DAYS 1-3 Kuta / Canggu Join your group at your Kuta hotel or take the included arrival transfer there from Denpasar International Airport. This is one of Bali’s busiest tourist hotspots, so there’s plenty to do while you get acquainted with your fellow travellers. Opt to go shopping for souvenirs, sip a smoothie at one of the many cafés or find a spot on the beach. Our advice? Make the most of the wallet-friendly massages on offer. On Day 2, discover the hidden gems of nearby Uluwatu with a short drive to a beautiful temple perched on a cliff, then head to famous Seminyak Beach for some chill time and an epic Balinese sunset. Return to Kuta that evening to sample some of its notorious nightlife. Cool Canggu calls on Day 3. This is one of the world’s most famous surfing destinations, so it’s only right that you get to ‘hang ten’ with an included surf lesson.

02 05 07 09 11 14 16 18 23 25 27 29

01 03 06 08 10 12 14 16 19 21 24 28 30

02 04 07 09 12 14 16 18 20 22 25 27 30

Dec

02 05 08 11 13 17 19 21 23 26 30

Nov

03 05 07 09 11 13 18 21 28 29 31

Oct

01 05 07 09 11 14 16 19 23 28

Sep

04 06 09 11 14 18 20 24 27 29

Aug

Jul

Hone your wave-riding skills with an included surf lesson in Canggu.

Jun

The T in Gili T doesn’t stand for turtles, but that’s where you’ll find them.

May

Check our Lovina’s porpoises on a wild dolphin boat trip.

Apr

SURF LESSON

Mar

SNORKELLING WITH TURTLES

Feb

WILD DOLPHINS BOAT TRIP

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

HIGHLIGHTS

03 05 07 09 12 14 17 21 23 25 27 30

01 04 08 10 12 14 17 19 22 26 30

02 05 07 10 14 18 20 25 28 30

03 08 10 13 17 21 23 26 28

01 05 08 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Ancient temple visits • Surf lesson • Wild dolphin boat trip • Local Balinese family visit • Gili Islands boat trip with snorkelling • Gili Islands bike tour • Airport pick-up

DAYS 4-5 Lovina Your next destination is the relatively unknown natural wonder of Lovina, an untouched paradise of stunning rice paddies. Have you ever seen anything so green? En route, soak up the area’s fascinating culture and lush landscapes with visits to ancient temples and waterfalls. After breakfast the next morning, jump on a traditional outrigger boat and cruise along the coastline, keeping your eyes peeled for wild dolphins. It’s time to experience the ‘real’ Bali. Travel to a small village and meet a local family who’ll give you an insight into daily life here. Learn about coffee production and try your hand at basket weaving before heading back to your mountain villa where you can make the most of the infinity pool. (B, L, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Upgrade your trip Bali Intro (12 days, Kuta - Ubud) (DPSWWN)

Fr $1,088

DAYS 6-9 Gili Trawangan Today, a fast ferry will zip you over to the tiny island of Gili Trawangan where you’ll have some free time to relax. As Gili T has no motorised vehicles, do as the locals do and take to two wheels on Day 7. It takes roughly two hours to cycle the island’s perimeter, so break up the ride with pit stops at pristine beaches and open-air cafés. On Day 8, enjoy a boat cruise around all three Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air), stopping at various snorkelling spots. The waters here are really clear and famous for sea turtles, so you’re pretty much guaranteed to see one! Back on dry land, have a farewell dinner with your group, then hit up the beach bars after sunset. With live music, international DJ sets and nightly drink specials, Gili T’s party scene is perfect for one final blowout. Depart after breakfast on Day 9. (4B, D) Tour Code: DPSBWF

Lovina BA L I

Gili Trawangan

Canggu

Kuta ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin/triple-share hotel (6 nts), multi-share private villa (2 nts)

5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Private minivan, boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

109

CLASSIC BALI PRICE FR $879

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE SANUR - CANDIDASA

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Bali Community Training lunch, Ubud orientation walk, visits to rice terrace & Kintamani hot springs

GE 10

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Sanur Beach / Bedugal / Munduk

DAYS 5-6 Ubud / Candidasa

Hit the seaside streets of Sanur on arrival, then make for the mountain lakes of Bedugal the next morning. After a walk through the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, check out Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, an ancient water temple dedicated to the river goddess. (B, D)

In Ubud, opt to visit Monkey Forest, check out the arts and crafts or venture out to the terraced rice paddies. Later, you have the opportunity to witness a traditional Kecak dance performance. (2B)

DAYS 3-4 Kintamani / Ubud In Kintamani, take a dip in the local hot springs and get an early night - those who are up early enough the next morning will get the chance to hike to the top of Mt. Batur at sunrise. Once back from the volcano, head inland to the rich cultural centre of Ubud. Along the way, stop for the Bali Community Lunch, a G for Good programme that supports people living with disabilities find employment. (2B, L)

DAYS 7-8 Candidasa

I N D O N E S I A

Settle on the white sand of Candidasa. Swim off secluded beaches, go fish-spotting with optional snorkelling or just work on that tan. You may also like to pay a visit to the water temple, Tirta Gangga, take a yoga class or treat yourself to a massage on the beach. After a final night, the tour comes to an end on Day 8. (2B)

Bedugal / Munduk

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Private van, public bus, boat

CLASSIC LOMBOK

Kintamani BA L I

Candidasa

Ubud

Tour Code: GAAESU

Hotels/guesthouses (7 nts)

PRICE FR $999

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $479

Sanur

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE CANDIDASA - SANUR

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 15, avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Snorkelling trip, Tetebatu countryside trek, Benang Kelambu Waterfall swim, visits to Sasak and Gili Islands DEPARTS: Selected Thursdays & Saturdays

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $499

ILI

ASIA

DEPARTS: Selected Fridays & Sundays (Jan-Feb, May, Nov), Sundays and occasional Thursdays and Tuesdays (Mar, Nov-Mar21), Sundays, Fridays & Wednesdays (Apr-Oct),

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Candidasa / Kuta (Lombok)

DAYS 5-6 Senggigi / Gili Islands

Arrive at any time into the beautiful Candidasa. Your adventure starts as you travel to Padangbai Harbour for the ferry crossing to lovely Lombok - it’s a true island paradise with surf beaches and excellent reefs for snorkelling. (B)

Hike the base of Mt. Rinjani and cool off with a wellearned swim at a secluded waterfall. Suitably refreshed, jump on an outrigger boat to the beautiful palm-fringed Gili Islands. Make sure you seek out the ocean swing for the perfect holiday pic (#nofilter). If you’re feeling energetic, you can head off on an organised snorkelling trip to spot sea turtles. (2B)

DAYS 3-4 Tetebatu / Senggigi Stroll past the area’s rice paddies, tobacco fields and a small Sasak village en route to the southern town of Kuta (not to be confused with Bali’s Kuta). A full day is yours to suss out the area’s many activities. Opt to take a stab at surfing or just simply laze on the beach. Things get a little more hilly at scenic Tetebatu, where you trek through rice fields here before spending the night at Senggigi. (2B)

I N D O N E S I A

DAYS 7-8 Sanur Beach Return to Bali by boat and transfer to Sanur - a seaside town with a long stretch of beach, shallow waters and colourful Indonesian fishing boats. Your adventure comes to an end on Day 8 after breakfast. (2B)

Tour Code: GAAEUS

BA L I

Gili Islands

Candidasa

LO M B O K

Senggigi

Tetebatu

Sanur Kuta

110

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels/guesthouses (7 nts)

7 breakfasts

Private van, public bus, boat

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

BALI-LOMBOK GILI ISLAND HOPPING

BALI FITNESS BOOTCAMP

PRICE

DURATION

ROUTE

PRICE

DURATION

ROUTE

FR $774

10 DAYS

SEMINYAK - SEMINYAK

FR $580

1-8 WEEKS

DENPASAR - DENPASAR

ASIA

INDEPENDENT TOUR

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Welcome to Lombok! Known as Bali’s ‘quiet neighbour,’ rest and relaxation is easy to come by. After settling in, get things started on Day 2 by visiting traditional villages and two refreshing waterfalls near Mt. Rinjani. Follow up with a day tour to the hand-weaving village of Sukerara, then chill out at Kuta Beach. This famous strip of sand is buzzing with life both day and night. On Day 5, head to the car(e)-free Gili Islands for bike rides, snorkelling and plenty of chill out time. Wrap things up in style by hopping aboard a boat for one final party, saying goodbye to your fellow revellers before you head back to Seminyak in Bali.

Get the beach body you want on this Bali bootcamp. Choose from three packages, catering to three different budgets (lean, pro or deluxe) and benefit from intensive workouts and lessons from expert personal trainers. Enjoy three to five yoga sessions per week, group CrossFit training sessions, Bodyfit sessions, beach runs and optional excursions to temples, surf spots, water parks and beaches throughout (excluded in the lean option). Once you’ve finished your fitness-inspired week, why not hit the nearby beach clubs for a drink or two? You’ve earned it! Choose from a one week bundle or if you’re looking to go the whole hog, stay for eight. INCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS

Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hotels or guesthouses (9 nts) Meals: 9 breakfasts, 1 dinner Transport: Car or minivan, boat Tour Code: DPSGIH

Departs: Sundays Accommodation: Single-sex dorm or single or double rooms at training facility (7+ nts) Meals: Breakfast daily Transport: One-way transfer from Denpasar airport included Group Size: Max 50 Tour Code: BALFBC

BEST OF JAVA PRICE FR $1,199

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE JAKARTA - SANUR

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visit Prambanan temple complex, see sunrise at Mt Bromo, visit Borobudur, village walk in Desa Ngadas, city tour in Jakarta DEPARTS: Selected Thu & Sat (Jan-Dec)

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $339

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Jakarta / Bandung

DAYS 6-7 Ngadas / Mt. Bromo

Get a little feel for Indonesia’s busy capital Jakarta before meeting your group. Day 2 kicks off with a tour of the city, travelling to Bandung by afternoon where you can opt to see a traditional angklung orchestra performance, where children create harmonic and resonating melodies with bamboo instruments. (B)

Continue across the agricultural heartland of Java to Ngadas, a village in the Mt. Bromo region. Experience the local culture during an overnight G for Good homestay with the Tengger farming community. Learn about the local culture, customs and traditions from your hosts and enjoy a tasty dinner. Climb up the majestic Mt. Bromo the next day for sunrise, then move on to Malang for the evening. (2B, L, D)

DAYS 3-5 Bandung / Yogyakarta Day 3 brings you to Yogyakarta. Opt to go on a cycling tour, or see a Ramayana performance - an Indonesian ballet that incorporates acrobatics. Next day, visit Prambanan, a well-preserved collection of Hindu temples and the biggest complex in Java. The world’s largest Buddhist sanctuary, Borobudur, calls on Day 5. (3B)

DAYS 8-9 Sanur Catch a flight to Sanur today, famous for its beaches. Here you can enjoy a bit of free time before saying goodbye on Day 9. (2B)

Tour Code: GAAEJV

Jakarta Bandung

JAVA

Yogyakarta I N D O N E S I A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels/guesthouses (7 nts), multi-share homestay (1 nt)

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Private van, train, bike, plane

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Mt. Bromo BALI

Ngadas

Sanur

111

TAIWAN DISCOVERY SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE TAIPEI - TAIPEI

NEED TO KNOWS

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

ASIA

PRICE FR $2,599

LES APP

, LY

TRIP STYLE: Classic

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 10

TAIPEI 101 SKYSCRAPER

TAIWANESE FOOD

TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

The apple of Taipei’s eye, this bamboo-shaped tower is 509m tall. It’s hard to miss along the skyline.

Home of bubble tea and the gua bao burger, there’s good reason to bao down to this cuisine.

The Liwu River has taken its time to carve the large marble gorge that the park is known for.

DAYS 1-3 Taipei / Jiufen / Tainan Begin your blockbuster ten days in Taipei, a thriving metropolis filled with street vendors, skyscrapers and lined with grand historic buildings. Make your way to Taipei and depart for Jiufen on Day 2, an ex-gold mining mountain town developed during the Japanese occupation and known for its narrow lanes, teahouses and street food. Spend the day eating all the food you can on Jiufen Old Street and relaxing in the famous A Mei Teahouse. Take a fast train to Tainan and see Chikan Tower, Confucius Temple and Anping Fort on a city tour. Hit the famous Flower Garden Market and Da Dong to feast on grilled seafood and oyster omelette - be brave and try the stinky tofu! (2B)

DAYS 4-5 Tainan / Sun Moon Lake Take a walking tour through Tainan, which just so happens to be the country’s former capital under the Qing dynasty and its oldest urban area. Set off on a walking tour through the historic district of Anping that dates back to the 17th century, when the Dutch East India Company occupied the city and built Fort Zeelandia. Make your way to Sun Moon Lake in the evening. The lake is the largest body of water in Taiwan - the east side of the lake looks like the sun and the west resembles the moon, hence its name. Check out Sun Moon Lake’s temples and Tuhua Village. (2B)

05 16

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,219

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Full day north coast excursion • Tainan walking tour • Night market walk • Sun Moon Lake hike and cycling tour • Taroko N.P. with Baiyang Trail hike • Visit to Hualien Railway Cultural Park • Visit to a tea farm • Lunch at the National Centre for Traditional Arts

Head to the east side of Taiwan, crossing through the mountains into Huelien. The mesmerising Taroko National Park awaits on Day 7. The park is home to the 18-kilometre marble-walled Taroko Gorge and Liwu River, the towering Qingshui Cliffs and the beautiful Golden Canyon. Catch the train to vibrant Yilan on Day 8, and have cameras at the ready for the stunning scenery, pumping nightlife and delicious Yilan street food. Submerge yourself in bubble tea, gua bao (aka the Taiwanese burger) and pan-fried buns at Luodong Night Market. (3B, 2D)

DAYS 9-10 Yilan / Taipei

Taipei

Opt to tour the National Centre for Traditional Arts or stroll through Yilan’s flea and street markets. On your way back to Taipei in the afternoon, stop at a local tea farm. It’s your final evening in the city, so hit up Dihua Street shopping for Chinese medicine and fabrics, going up the unmissable Taipei101 and laying your eyes on the world’s largest and finest collection of Chinese art at the National Palace Museum. Still hungry? We recommend the Tonghua Night Market for liu sha doughnut and peanut spring roll ice-cream - drool! Depart any time on Day 10. (2B, L)

TAI WA N

Sun Moon Lake

Tainan

112

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (9 nts)

9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Private vehicle, fast train, local train, bike

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Jiufen Yilan

Tour Code: GAAQTT

ACCOMMODATION

Mar 21

05 17 14 18 04

DAYS 6-8 Hualien / Taroko National Park / Yilan

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

AGE GROUP: Min 12

Taroko N.P. Hualien

HONG KONG BON KER S ABO UT HON KER S

ROCK SOLID

ICLUB FORTRESS HILL HONG KONG

$110 $55

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

ASIA

An enigmatic melting pot of skyscrapers, ancient traditions and tasty cuisine, Hong Kong encapsulates the Asia we all know and love. Get an eyeful of traditional Chinese architecture in Ngong Ping, hop aboard a traditional junk boat to explore urban beaches or take the tram to the top of Victoria Peak for panoramic views. Cat Street or the neon-lit Temple Street Night Market are the places to be while hunting for trinkets and antiques.

ROCK SOLID

STANFORD HOTEL HONG KONG

$126 $63

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Situated in the North Point district of Hong Kong

LOCATION: Next to Ladies Market in vibrant Kowloon, a

Island, a four-minute walk from Fortress Hill metro station.

neighbourhood dedicated to bargain shopping and entertainment.

VIBE: Modern and chic hotel with bright and comfy rooms. You’re

VIBE: Comfortable and convenient hotel offering a free shuttle

only a mere five minutes away from Causeway Bay.

service to the sights of Hong Kong.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Flatscreen

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Free use of handy

TV • Lounge • Computer station • Luggage storage • 24-hour fitness zone • Morning refreshments • 24-hour coffee and tea

smartphone (T&Cs apply) • In-room safe • Bar • Café • Lounge • 24-hour reception • Free shuttle service to major transport links

10% DISCOUNT: 01APR20-31MAR21, BOOK FROM 01APR20-30SEP20 (MIN STAY 2 NIGHTS); FREE ROOM UPGRADE (MIN STAY 3 NIGHTS): 01APR20-31MAR21, BOOK FROM 01APR20-30SEP20

HKGICF

HKGSTA

- TOP SELLER ROCK SOLID

DORSETT MONGKOK HONG KONG

$168 $84

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

A-LIST

HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON

ROOM ONLY

$227 $114

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Situated right in the heart of Kowloon, just a seven-

LOCATION: Just a few steps from Whampoa MTR station and

minute walk from the Olympic MTR station.

eight minutes away from downtown Tsim Sha Tsui.

VIBE: Contemporary hotel with a range of rooms and suites. All

VIBE: A five-star waterside retreat with spacious rooms and

come with free use of smartphones!

suites and award-winning restaurants.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Flatscreen

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Suite upgrades available • Air con •

TV • Restaurant • 24-hour Gym • 24-hour reception • Luggage storage • Free shuttle service

In-room safe • Rooftop pool • Poolside bar • 6 restaurants • Spa and treatment services • Sauna • 24-hour gym

EARLYBIRD OFFER: 25% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK 45+ DAYS IN ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL 02JAN20-31MAR20 (BLACKOUT DATES APPLY), BOOK BY 14FEB20

HKGDOR

EARLYBIRD OFFER: 15% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK 90+ DAYS IN ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL 01APR20-30DEC20; HONEYMOON OFFERS AVAILABLE

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

HKGHGK

113

CHINA EXPRESS PRICE FR $1,379

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE BEIJING - SHANGHAI

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Great Wall excursion, Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City guided tour, Terracotta Warriors tour, Shanghai orientation walk, Chinese acrobat performance

GE 10

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Beijing

DAY 6 Suzhou

Arrive in China’s charismatic capital and get ready for two days of sightseeing. Take a tour of Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world, and walk around the opulent Forbidden City, the seat of the Ming dynasty between 1420 and 1644. After a walk on the Great Wall, take a fast train to Xi’an on Day 3.

Suzhou, otherwise known as the Venice of the East, is hailed for its network of canals, stone bridges, pagodas and classical gardens. The Master of the Nets Garden is one of China’s most exquisite, so make the most of your visit by sitting back and enjoying a cultural performance.

DAYS 4-5 Xi’an / Shanghai Discover one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures, the Terracotta Warriors, uncovered by local farmers in 1974. If you fancy a cycle, opt to circle the ancient city walls before joining in with tai chi or ballroom dancing in the parks. Check out the Great Mosque, scour the souvenir stalls and indulge in the city’s superb street food. Your day finishes with a fast train to Shanghai.

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $379

DAYS 7-8 Shanghai

Beijing

Explore dynamic Shanghai, where east meets west, and see how ancient rituals sit side by side with modern life. Go on an orientation walk along the Bund, the old colonial waterfront, or shop on the famous Nanjing Road before heading out for a final dinner with your group. Your tour ends on Day 8.

Tour Code: GAACCR

C H I N A

Xi’an

Shanghai

Suzhou

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotel (7 nts)

Not included

Train, local bus, metro, private van

BEIJING TO HONG KONG ADVENTURE PRICE FR $2,349

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE BEIJING - HONG KONG

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

DEPARTS: Selected Fridays

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visit to Jia Community Restaurant, Great Wall excursion, Chinese acrobat performance, Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City tour, Terracotta Warriors tour, Longji Terraces trek, Master of the Nets Garden visit, orientation walks in Shanghai and Yangshuo

ILI

ASIA

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Selected Fridays (Jan-Feb, Dec-Mar21), Fridays and selected Wednesdays (Mar-Nov)

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Beijing

DAYS 9-11 Yangshuo / Longji

Touch down in Beijing at any time on Day 1. Over the next few days, visit iconic sites including the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. On Day 3, board an overnight train to the ancient city of Xi’an, once the imperial capital of China.

Say hello to Yangshuo! Its surreal landscape is dominated by thousands of karst peaks. Opt to go biking or take a boat cruise down the Li River, then have lunch at the G for Good Jia Community Restaurant. This project trains rural women to become chefs, waiters and guides. Transfer to Longji. (L)

DAYS 4-8 Xi’an / Shanghai Built to guard China’s first emperor in the afterlife, the Terracotta Army is made up of 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots and over 600 horses, and you’ll get to see this archaeological treasure on an included visit. Day 5 takes you to Shanghai. While you’re here, watch an acrobat show and take a trip to Suzhou, famed for its classical gardens, canals and humpbacked bridges. After a free morning exploring the city, board an overnight train.

DAYS 12-14 Longji / Hong Kong Over the next couple of days, trek to rural villages near the incredible Longji Rice Terraces. You’ll be rewarded with views of lush green landscapes and tiered paddy fields descending into a valley. Board a high-speed train to Hong Kong, where your tour ends on Day 14.

Tour Code: GAACSB

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $639

Beijing

Xi’an Suzhou

C H I N A

Shanghai

Longji Yangshuo

Hong Kong

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

114

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (10 nts), guesthouse (2 nts), sleeper train (1 nt)

1 lunch

Train, bus, private vehicle

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Hong Kong to Xi’an 13 days (GAACRX)

Fr $2,299

BEIJING TO SHANGHAI ADVENTURE: ANCIENT KINGDOMS & KARAOKE PRICE FR $749

ROUTE BEIJING - SHANGHAI

DURATION 8 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Great Wall excursion, orientation walks in Xi’an and Shanghai

- WE LOVE -

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

09 20 05 02 07 04 04 03 05 03 02 05 09 20 06 16 12 09 14 11 06 08 07 05 16 14 23 27 13 14 16 21 15 11 10 12 10 21 28 20 19 23 28 20 13 15 14 17 30 22 26 30 30 22 18 17 19 19 27 31 27 22 22 21 24 29 27 31 28 26

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

DAYS 1-3 Beijing

DAY 6 Shanghai

After arriving in the capital, meet your group and get ready for two days of exploring. First up is an included visit to the Great Wall, with some parts being built as early as 700 BC. Back in the city, opt to visit the Forbidden City and the famous Tiananmen Square. Catch the overnight train to Xi’an in the evening of Day 3.

A bullet train shoots you all the way to futuristic Shanghai. It’s China’s most outward-looking city and often a favourite with visitors to the country. Opt to see a magical acrobatic performance before a night of belting solos at a local karaoke bar - private booth included (phew!).

DAYS 4-5 Xi’an

DAYS 7-8 Shanghai

Embark on an orientation walk around Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter. Here you can find most of the city’s seven mosques and a very active Muslim community something of a rarity in China. Over the next two days, opt to cycle the ancient city walls or practice some tai chi. Of course, there are also the Terracotta Warriors, each with individually carved facial features.

Beijing

Already in love with this city? Lucky thing that you have two free whole days here. An orientation walk will get you into the swing of things before you’re set loose to your own devices. Stroll the waterfront Bund or chow down on Qibao street food. Depart on Day 8.

Xi’an Suzhou

Tour Code: GAACBI

Shanghai

C H I N A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (3 nts), twin-share hostels (3 nts), sleeper train (1 nt)

Not included

Train, local bus

CHINA ADVENTURE PRICE FR $3,335

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35

DURATION 12 DAYS

ROUTE BEIJING - SHANGHAI

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 30 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Peking duck dinner, Great Wall (Mutianyu) trip, Forbidden City tour, rickshaw ride, Terracotta Warrior tour, Xi’an city wall bike ride, visits to the Ming Tombs, Tiananmen Square, 798 Art Precinct, Summer Palace, TangBo Art Museum, Chengdu Panda Sanctuary, Shanghai Tower, a silk museum & City God Temple

04 09 20 11

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

- WE LOVE -

12 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $630

DAYS 1-4 Beijing

DAYS 8-9 Yangshuo

Your first four days are packed with historical gems and iconic sights. Jump straight in with visits to the Great Wall and ancient Ming Tombs followed by an included meal of Peking duck. There’s plenty more to see on Day 3 so rise early for a guided tour of the Forbidden City and the trendy 798 Art Precinct. After a rickshaw ride, hop aboard a sleeper train to Xi’an on Day 4. (3B, 2L, 2D)

Time to swap the city hubbub for tranquil countryside vibes. Fly to Guilin and transfer to Yangshuo on Day 8. Dominated by limestone karsts and the Li and Yulong rivers, this region is so stunning, you might never want to leave! Opt to explore the night markets, sign up for a tai chi class or just take Yangshuo at your own pace. (2B, D)

Beijing C H I N A

DAYS 10-12 Shanghai

DAYS 5-7 Xi’an/ Chengdu After a morning visit to the TangBo Art Museum, enjoy a guided tour of the Terracotta Army complex, one of the world’s most significant archaeological finds. On Day 6, cycle along the ancient city walls then catch a high-speed train to Chengdu. Your highlight here will no doubt be a trip to the Giant Panda Breeding Centre! (3B, L)

Take things up a notch for the last leg of the trip. Flying into Shanghai, you’ll experience the ultimate scene change. Think neon lights and gleaming skyscrapers. Visit a silk museum, the City God Temple, Shanghai Tower and the Bund before your trip ends on Day 12. (3B)

Tour Code: COCHNA

Xi’an

Shanghai Chengdu

Yangshuo

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

3* twin-share hotels (10 nts), overnight train (1 nt)

11 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Plane, overnight train, private coach, high-speed train

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

115

ASIA

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

BEST OF SOUTH KOREA SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE SEOUL - SEOUL

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

ASIA

PRICE FR $2,649

NEED TO KNOWS

ILI

LES APP

, LY

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

TEMPLES OF GYEONGJU

DEMILITARISED ZONE (DMZ)

SHOPPING IN SEOUL

No, you didn’t step back in time, but this ancient town sure is convincing.

It’s ironically one of the most heavily militarised zones in the world.

Free your wallet while shopping and truly discover Gangnam style.

DAYS 1-2 Seoul Arrive into South Korea’s buzzing capital at any time and get ready to experience the vibes of this sprawling metropolis. From night markets and temples to palaces and skyscrapers, one thing’s for sure - you won’t be bored! Fill your backpacks to the brim in one of the stylish shopping malls and visit the World Heritage Site of the precious Jongmyo, dedicated to house the deceased kings and queens of the Korean Joseon Dynasty. The next day, enjoy a guided tour of the city and visit many of the sites, including the Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of Seoul’s grandest archaeological splendours. (B)

DAYS 3-4 Demilitarised Zone / Gyeongju Prepare for an eye-opener of a trip to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) along the border of North and South Korea. The DMZ is a whopping 160 miles long and attracts over 1.2 million travellers annually, according to the Korea Tourism Organisation. With over a million soldiers on watch each day, it’s the world’s last Cold War border. Arrive to the coastal city of Gyeongju on Day 4. Known as ‘The Museum Without Walls’, it holds countless tombs and temples which will wow any culture vultures keen to discover its historic charm. Wander the famous UNESCO sites of Seoguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple on an included tour of the city. Tuck into delicious steamed octopus, wander the tomb-filled Tumuli Park and top up your history knowledge at the Gyeongju Museum. (2B)

06 03 01 12 13 17 08 20 15 22 29

14 04 02 21 11 09 28 25

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP STYLE: Classic

05 12 19

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,119

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Overnight temple stay • City tours of Seoul, Gyeongju & Busan • Haendae Beach and Dongbaek Island • Visits to DMZ, Yangdong Folk Village, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, N Seoul Tower & Namdaemun Market

DAYS 5-6 Yangdong / Busan Take a day trip to the 500-year-old UNESCO site of Yangdong Folk Village, located in Gyeongju National Park, to get a feel for life during the early Joseon Dynasty. Over 160 tile and thatched-roofed homes showcase historic architecture from 200 years ago. Travel onwards to Busan and visit the magnificent Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. The next morning, splash some cash at the fantastic Jagalchi Fish Market and Gujesijang Market, then wander the grounds of Yongdusan Park, taking in the towering Busan Tower. Spend your last evening with a unique overnight experience in a local temple complex in comfortable lodgings known as ‘ondo’. (2B, D)

DAYS 7-8 Seoul Wake up for one last morning in Busan before boarding a high-speed train to Seoul. Sign off the last day with visits to N Seoul Tower and Namdaemun Market before departing at any time on Day 8. (2B)

Tour Code: GAAKSS

Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)

Seoul S O U T H KO R E A

Yangdong Gyeongju Busan

116

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Standard hotels (6 nts) multi-share temple (1 nt)

7 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Private van, train, subway

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

TOKYO, OSAKA, KYOTO & BEYOND THE Y SEE ME ROL LIN’

KHAOSAN TOKYO SAMURAI, TOKYO

ASIA

From mouthwatering street food stalls selling local delights to Michelin-starred restaurants; foodies are in absolute paradise here. But it’s not just about the food. Find a robot-themed restaurant, tranquil parks among busy chaos, a vampire café, clone factory and parasitological museum all in wacky Tokyo. And, Osaka is home to a seven-storey, 24-hour entertainment complex, towering skyscrapers and top shopping opportunities. Udon even know.

- TOP SELLER -

SHOESTRING

ROCK SOLID

$37

SINGLE

E-HOTEL HIGASHI SHINJUKU, TOKYO

ROOM ONLY

$207 $104

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

HOTEL ROSE GARDEN FR$129 FR$65 SHINJUKU, TOKYO

ROOM ONLY

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: In the traditional downtown

LOCATION: In Tokyo’s commuting capital

LOCATION: Close to the shopping hubs of

area of Asakusa, close to Asakusa Temple.

Shinjuku, next to the world’s busiest station.

Tokyo Midtown and Akihabara Electric Town.

VIBE: A sociable hostel with a lounge and

VIBE: A simple hotel ideal for travellers

VIBE: Family-owned hotel offering a bit of

full kitchen facilities, ideal for backpackers.

wanting to get right in amongst it all.

tranquillity and respite from the city hubbub.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con •

rooms • Air con • Terrace • Shared kitchen • Lounge • Personal lockers • Laundry

Coffee shop • Massage services • Laundry • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

Restaurant • Café • Bar • Spa • Laundry • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

TYOKHA

EHTYO1

HOTEL WBF TOKYO ASAKUSA, TOKYO

EXTYOG

- TOP SELLER -

ROCK SOLID

$105 $53

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

SHINJUKU GRANBELL HOTEL, TOKYO

ROOM ONLY

$111 $56

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: In the Asakusa neighbourhood, an area with good

LOCATION: In the heart of the lively Kabuki-cho area in Shinjuku;

airport proximity and shopping, near the ancient Senso-ji Temple.

very well connected in terms of pubic transport.

VIBE: Clean and compact rooms equipped with all the necessities

VIBE: A comfortable hotel complete with its own rooftop bar,

and channelling a contemporary feel.

open terrace and excellent cityscape views.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Flatscreen TV • In-room

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Flatscreen TV • Rooftop

safe • Restaurant • Outdoor terrace • Laundry • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

bar • Restaurant • Terrace • Garden • In-room safe • Laundry • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

EXTYOG

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

EXTYOO

117

JAPAN: RAMEN & RAILWAYS PRICE FR $1,299

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE TOKYO - KYOTO

DURATION 6 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 14 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Orientation walks in Tokyo and Takayama, overnight stay in traditional inn

GE 10

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-2 Tokyo

DAYS 4-6 Kyoto

Arrive at any time in the electric wonderland of Tokyo. On Day 2, opt to mingle with fashion-forward locals in Harajuku, take refuge from the hum of city life in Yoyogi Park and get your history fix at Asakusa Shrine. Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest intersections worldwide - a must for those who love city chaos.

Jump on a bullet train to Kyoto and spend the rest of the trip getting to know this historical hub of Japan. All of Day 4 and 5 are free for you to fill with whatever interests you most. You can opt to participate in a traditional tea ceremony, hang out in ornately manicured gardens, learn the ancient art of calligraphy, visit the golden temple of Kinkaku-ji, or simply chill out by the river in one of Kyoto’s many bars. With over 1,600 Buddhist temples and more than 400 Shinto shrines, this is the place to get spiritual. Perhaps stretch your legs by strolling through the bamboo forest in Arashiyama? Day 6 marks your last day, but stay on if you can’t get enough of magical Japan.

DAY 3 Takayama Travel to the picturesque mountain town of Takayama where you can wander the quaint streets. The Sanmachi Suji historic district is lined with wooden merchants’ houses and sake breweries that date back to the Edo Period. In the evening, relax in a ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) complete with tatami floors and an onsen (a public bathing spot).

Tour Code: GAAJTK

JA PA N

Takayama

Tokyo Kyoto

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostels (4 nts), traditional inn (1 nt)

Not included

Train, bus

EPIC JAPAN: SAKE & STREET FOOD PRICE FR $2,549

DURATION 11 DAYS

Japan: Castles & Cuisine 6 days (GAAJKO)

Fr $1,279

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE TOKYO - OSAKA

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 14 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Orientation walks in Tokyo and Takayama, traditional inn stay, Miyajima Island visit, Japan Rail pass

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: Saturdays (Jan-Feb, Dec-Mar21), Saturdays and selected Tuesdays & Thursdays (Mar-Apr), Saturdays and selected Thursdays (May-Nov)

ILI

ASIA

DEPARTS: Saturdays (Jan-Feb, DecFeb21), Saturdays and selected Tuesdays & Thursdays (Mar, Mar21), Saturdays and selected Thursdays (Apr-Nov),

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-2 Tokyo

DAYS 7-8 Hiroshima

Arrive in Tokyo and rest up before an orientation walk the next day. The city is home to the amazing and the strange - expect vending machines selling anything from hamburgers to umbrellas. Opt to check out the manicured Yoyogi Park, Asakusa Shrine, the quirky student hangout of Harajuku and the electric Shibuya Crossing.

Take a sobering trip to the Peace Park and Museum, learning about the tragic history and current peace initiatives of the city. Ferry over to the sacred island of Miyajima to see the famous ‘floating’ Torii Gate.

DAYS 3-6 Takayama / Kyoto Welcome to Takayama, a mountain town dating back to the 17th century. An orientation walk takes you through its laneways lined with sake breweries and craft shops. Catch a train to Kyoto and spend the next few days discovering this ancient capital. Opt to visit some of the region’s spectacular temples, participate in a tea ceremony or take a calligraphy class.

DAYS 9-11 Osaka Once in the culinary capital, opt to tour a ramen museum or check out Osaka Castle. Hit up America Mura, a divine mix of chic and bizarre. A rooftop Statue of Liberty will watch over you as you wander from sleek cocktail bars to funky restaurants. The most wholesome delight is hearing people sing their hearts out to karaoke at 7am. Your tour comes to an end on Day 11.

JA PA N

Kyoto

Tour Code: GAAJTO

Osaka Hiroshima / Miyajima

118

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostels (9 nts), traditional inn (1 nt)

Not included

Train, bus, ferry

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Takayama

Tokyo

JAPAN EXPRESS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

PRICE FR $3,349

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE OSAKA - TOKYO

ASIA

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

LES AP

Y, PL

Jan

Mar

ILI

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12

17 07 06 01 01 03 01 05 02 04 04 04 15 05 03 24 14 13 05 06 05 08 07 09 07 11 11 22 12 05 31 21 15 12 10 10 17 12 16 14 13 16 29 19 12 28 18 17 15 12 22 14 18 21 18 18 24 21 20 22 22 19 24 21 25 23 25 26 25 25 29 27 24 31 26 30 28 27 28

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

SLEEPING IN A TEMPLE

OSAKA FOOD

MIYAJIMA

A night in one of Mt. Koya’s temples is one of a kind. Wake early to attend morning prayers.

Okonomiyaki was born here and no where else does it better. Try out this noodle pancake asap.

This torii gate is the most photographed spot in Japan. You can walk out to it in low tide.

DAYS 1-2 Osaka / Mt. Koya Arrive into Osaka and, arming yourself with a map and an appetite, head out to explore Japan’s culinary capital - we recommend the takoyaki (octopus balls). Day 2, a scenic train takes you through the mountains towards Mt. Koya, an important religious centre in Japanese Buddhism. The temples and atmospheric cemeteries are perfect for wandering before you bed down in a shukubo, a monastery lodging atop Mt. Koya run by monks. Savour a meal of ‘shojin ryori’, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, and watch the monks pray in the morning. (B, D)

• Mt. Koya Temple stay • Traditional ryokan stay • Japan Rail pass (7 days) • Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum visit • Miyajima excursion and floating torii gate visit • Lake Ashino-ko boat ride, Hakone • Nijo Castle and gardens visit, Kyoto • Gion walk • Fushini Inari shrine visit

DAYS 3-4 Hiroshima Continue by bullet train to Hiroshima. This modern city offers a more manageable scale and pace than other Japanese urban centres, but will forever be marked for the 1945 atomic bomb explosion. Pause for a moment’s reflection at the ruined frame of the Gembaku Dome, which stood directly under the explosion, and learn the city’s story at the Peace Museum. Visit Miyajima Island, dotted with shrines and home to the ‘floating’ torii gate. (B)

DAYS 5-6 Kyoto Kyoto, the former Imperial capital, is an essential part of any visit to Japan, home to age-old temples, palaces and gardens. See the beautiful Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the impressive Nijo Castle and its gardens. Catch a traditional tea ceremony and meditate in Daisen-in’s Zen rock garden. Evenings are the ideal time to stroll through historic Gion, the traditional home of the geisha girls. If you’ve ever wanted to try on the full gear, this is the place!

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Ancient Empires (16 days, Beijing - Tokyo) (GAACCJ)

Fr $4,999

DAY 7 Hakone / Mt. Fuji Head for the hills to Mt. Owakudani for impressive views of Mt. Fuji. Hop aboard a boat on Lake Ashino-ko, and take a scenic walk along the Old Tokaido Highway. In a traditional ryokan accommodation, spend your evening enjoying a multi-course Japanese kaiseki meal before totally unwinding with a soak in the natural hot springs. (D)

DAYS 8-9 Tokyo

JA PA N

Finish off in Tokyo with free time for shopping and one final night out with the group. The tour comes to an end at any time on Day 9, but don’t forget, Tokyo is the biggest city on the planet so we strongly recommend extending your stay for another two or three days. You’ll need it to even scratch the surface! (B)

Tokyo Kyoto

Tour Code: GAAJJR

Osaka Hiroshima

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (6 nts), mountain monastery with shared facilities (1 nt), traditional inn with shared facilities (1 nt)

3 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Bullet train, public bus, tram, ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Mt. Fuji

Koyasan

119

THE DRAGON TRIP: TOKYO TO TOKYO SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 13 DAYS

ROUTE TOKYO - TOKYO

ASIA

PRICE FR $2,178

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Small Group Adventure AGE GROUP: Any age GROUP LEADER: Tour guide

SHIBUYA DISTRICT

VIEWS OF MT. FUJI

THE GOLDEN PAVILION

Look no further than these neon streets for Tokyo’s best shopping.

Hakone’s ropeways and pirate ships are perfect viewpoints.

On sunny days, the glittering building is reflected in the pond.

DAYS 1-2 Tokyo After arriving in Japan’s capital, gear yourself up for a frenetic two days in Tokyo. Meet your group and start out by reaching dizzying new heights at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Lunch is at Outer Market where the seafood stalls are plenty, then stop at Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple. After waking up to a sushi-making lesson, check out Akihabara, the hub of Anime and Manga, and also home to Japan’s most famous J-pop group, AKB48. If you loved Mario Kart on Nintendo, you can opt to don character onesies and drive around Tokyo in a go kart! Just be sure not to throw any banana peels.

DAYS 3-5 Tokyo / Kamakura Check out the Imperial Palace and quirky Harajuku. Shift over to Shibuya where you take on the world’s busiest crossing and pat the Hachiko statue. The Edo-Tokyo Museum is great for all things historical before an optional visit to a samurai collection on Day 4. Leave Tokyo for Kamakura, a medieval capital packed with shrines. Check out Kotoku-in’s Great Buddha statue and visit nearby Enoshima. Your hostel is moments away from the beach, so go for a cheeky surf.

DAYS 6-9 Hakone National Park / Kyoto

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jun

01 02 10 03 01 02 08 06 17 07 05 09 11 09 27 14 08 15 17 12 18 21 15 22 24 19 25 28 29

Jul

May 04 11 14 18 25

Mar

17 02 02 24 09 06 12 09 16 13 19 16 23 27 26 30

Feb

Apr

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP SIZE: Min 4, Max 23

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Visits to the Senso-ji temple, Imperial Palace and Edo-Tokyo Museum • Sushi-making lesson • Visit to Kamakura’s Kotoku-in Temple • Pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi • Hozugawa River boat trip • Visits to Monkey Park, bamboo forest and Golden Pavilion • Calligraphy class • Bicycle tour in Kyoto’s Imperial Palace • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum • Miyajima Island and the Floating Torii

Hope for a clear day to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji from the Hakone Ropeway as you make your way to a local onsen. Sample eggs cooked in a volcanic spring and cap off the day on a pirate ship on Lake Ashi. After a quick look around Odawara Castle, jump on the train to Kyoto. Day 8, take a rafting trip down the Hozugawa River towards Arashiyama bamboo forest and monkey park where you get cracking views of Kyoto. In the evening, pay close attention to the pen as you test your skills in a calligraphy class. The next day is a free day. Karaoke anyone?

DAYS 10-13 Kyoto / Hiroshima / Osaka / Tokyo This morning takes you to the crowning feature of Kyoto, the Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji. Set on a pond and surrounded by pine, it’s definitely one for the shutterbugs. Then back to the hills for a slice of mindful meditation before a bike tour of the Imperial Palace. Next up, the historical city of Hiroshima where you can learn about the region’s tragic past with a visit to the Peace Museum. Sail over to the famous floating torii gate only a short boat ride away on Miyajima. The final stop is Osaka where there’s no shortage of shopping arcades, malls and riverfront entertainment. Spend the final night with your group, and then it’s back on the bullet train to Tokyo.

JA PA N

Tour Code: TYODRG

120

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hostels (12 nts)

Not included

Trains, public transport in cities

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Kamakura Hakone

Hiroshima

ACCOMMODATION

Tokyo

Kyoto Osaka

JAPAN UNRIVALLED PRICE FR $5,365

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE TOKYO - OSAKA

DURATION 13 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max30 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Sightseeing tours of Tokyo & Kyoto, onsen experience, Special Stays at a ryokan & mountain temple, traditional Buddhist meal, morning Buddhist service, visits to Tsukiji Fish Market, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Miyajima Island & Peace Memorial Museum - WE LOVE -

DEPARTS: Selected Fridays (Jun-Nov)

ASIA

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,110 EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35S

DAYS 1-4 Tokyo / Hakone National Park

DAYS 9-11 Kyoto / Mt. Koya

This sprawling city demands some time (and some getting used to!), so arrive early to make the most of it. After meeting your group, start with a sightseeing tour, taking in the Imperial Palace and quirky Harajuku. On Day 4, head to Hakone National Park where you’ll enjoy an onsen experience and stay in a traditional ryokan. (3B, D)

Visit Kyoto’s Kinkakuji (or Golden Pavilion), Nijo Castle and the Gion District. Wake up bright and early the next day and wind up the incredible torii path to the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Day 11 whisks you away to Mt. Koya, one of the most important Buddhist centres in Japan, where you’ll stay at a traditional guesthouse and eat as the monks do. (3B, D)

DAYS 5-8 Takayama / Hiroshima With its dark wooden buildings and hillside shrines, you’ll be totally taken with Takayama. Explore the town and markets on Day 6 and find your new favourite food with an optional Hida beef dinner. Next, take a bullet train to Hiroshima and ferry over to Miyajima Island to see the Itsukushima Shrine. Return to Hiroshima on Day 8 and visit the Peace Memorial Museum. (4B)

Matsumoto Takayama

DAYS 12-13 Osaka

Tokyo

Take part in a Buddhist service and a tour of Mt. Koya before departing to Osaka. This boisterous city is prime for an optional last night out with dinner and karaoke! Your trip ends on Day 13. (2B)

Osaka

TRANSPORT

3* twin-share hotels (10 nts), Japanese-style ryokan guesthouse (1 nt), Buddhist guesthouse (1 nt)

12 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Air con coach, bullet trains

JA PA N

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

n a p Ja INCLUDED MEALS

Japan Winder Wonder 10 days (COJAPF)

ASAHIKAWA KUSHIRO HAKODATE AMORI

JAPAN RAIL WEST PASS (KANSAI Area)

MORIOKA

Valid on all trains operated by Japan Railways, including the Shinkansen bullet trains, JR Limited Express, JR Express, local trains in city/rural areas plus affiliated bus and ferry connections, for unlimited travel across the whole of Japan. 2nd Class

1 day

Fr $22

2 days

Fr $43

3 days

Fr $52

4 days

Fr $62

Japan Rail West Pass (Kansai) is a cheaper option covering cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and other destinations in Kansai. It includes local, rapid and special rapid services, but supplements apply for the Shinkansen Express and Limited Express. It may not be used on the Shinkansen Super Express.

Fr $3,175

WAKKANAI

S R A I L PA S S E

Travel Validity

Hakone Mt. Koya

Miyajima

Tour Code: COJAPN

ACCOMMODATION

Kyoto

Hiroshima

NIIGATA

KYOTO HIROSHIMA

SENDAI

TOKYO

OSAKA

KAGOSHIMA

CALL 800.777.0112 TO BOOK

121

DELHI TO KATHMANDU ADVENTURE SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 15 DAYS

PRICE FR $1,599

ROUTE DELHI - KATHMANDU

ASIA

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12

HIGHLIGHTS

LES APP

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

, LY

Mar

Feb

ILI

Jan

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

04 01 02 04 02 06 04 01 05 03 02 12 02 01 01 11 08 09 06 09 13 11 08 07 09 07 14 09 06 08 18 15 16 18 23 20 18 15 14 16 14 21 18 15 15 25 24 30 27 25 22 21 31 23 28 30 22 29

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $399

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

G FOR GOOD

BIRTHPLACE OF THE BUDDHA, LUMBINI

CHITWAN SAFARI

Make momos (dumplings) and support victims of human trafficking.

Visit a major place of pilgrimage and one of the holiest on Earth.

Dora Explorer mode: ON. Head out in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger.

DAYS 1-3 Delhi / Jaipur The moment you step foot into chaotic Delhi, hop into your included transfer provided by the G for Good Women on Wheels project. This programme offers safe and reliable transport for travellers, while providing a dignified livelihood for women from a resource-poor community. Check out India Gate and Connaught Place, where shops, restaurants and bars abound, and opt for a Delhi-cious welcome dinner come dusk. Day 2 takes you to the Pink City of Jaipur and the famous Amber Fort. With some free time under your belt, meander through the local villages. By eve, you’ll get the chance to embrace the glitz and glam of Bollywood with a screening in the Art Deco film house, The Raj Mandir. The next day, visit the 953-windowed Palace of the Winds.

•G for Good Sisterhood of Survivors, Barauli homestay & Women on Wheels • I ndia Gate, Connaught Place, Orchha Palace & Swayambhunath visits • Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal tour • Taj Mahal entry •G anges boat trips & candle ceremony •O rientation walks in Kathmandu and Varanasi • Chitwan National Park 4WD safari • Sarangkot sunrise excursion

DAYS 4-8 Agra / Orchha / Varanasi The Muslim city of Agra is home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. See the sun set over this piece of stunning Mughal architecture then, the next day, travel by train and ‘tempo’ (a large type of auto-rickshaw) to the peaceful and rural town of Orchha. Here, you can choose to take part in a cooking class with a local family before heading to Varanasi on the overnight train. Wind through twisting alleys, check out the many temples and experience rituals of bathing along the ghats. You’ll also head out onto the sacred Ganges River by boat for sunrise and sunset.

DAYS 9-15 Lumbini / Chitwan National Park / Pokhara / Kathmandu Make a border crossing into Nepal, reaching the great Buddhist pilgrimage centre and birthplace of the Buddha, Lumbini. Along the base of the Himalayas, traverse marshy grasslands, savannahs and forests to Chitwan National Park. In the evening, head to your special G for Good homestay with the local indigenous Tharu community. Experience their culture through dancing, singing and a group feast. On Day 11, a 4WD safari through the park will take you in search of tigers and rhinos, then opt to take a cycling tour around town. Get further into the Himalayan mountains on Day 12, heading to Pokhara and then Sarangkot for sunrise over the mountains. Pay a visit to the G for Good Sisterhood of Survivors Project, a grassroots organisation that supports survivors of human trafficking. Meet beneficiaries of the programme and learn how to make Nepalese momos (dumplings), followed by lunch as a group. On Day 14, drive through the wild Himalayan landscape to Nepal’s magical capital, stopping at the Monkey Temple of Swayambhunath en route. Finish on a high with an optional sightseeing flight to glimpse Mt. Everest before your tour comes to an end on Day 15. (L, D)

Tour Code: GAAHDK

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Jaipur Balloon Ride Take off at dawn and see the sunrise over Jaipur’s forts and palaces. Fr $260 C H I N A

N E PA L

Delhi Agra

Lumbini

Jaipur

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

1 lunch, 1 dinner

Train, metro, local bus, charter bus, private van, auto-rickshaw, cyclerickshaw, tempo, riverboat, 4WD

122

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Chitwan N.P. Varanasi

Orchha

Hotels (10 nts), homestay (2 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), deluxe air con tents (1 nt)

Kathmandu

Pokhara

I N D I A

GOLDEN TRIANGLE PRICE FR $749

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE DELHI - DELHI

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12

- WE LOVE -

LES APP

, LY

DEPARTS: Selected Tue, Fri and Sun MY OWN ROOM: Fr $239

ASIA

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Women on Wheels & Delhi city walk, entry to Baby Taj & Jaipur City Palace, Dhula Village stay, visits to Amber Fort, Taj Mahal, Fatephur Sikri & Abhaneri stepwell

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Delhi / Agra

DAYS 5-6 Jaipur

Arrive in Delhi and take an included airport transfer from the G for Good Women on Wheels Project. Diving into the heart of India’s capital on Day 2, see Old Delhi on a tour led by a young adult taking part in the G for Good New Delhi Street Kids Project. Visit the famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) and climb its minaret for a bird’s-eye view, then head to Agra that evening.

Depart early morning to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. See the gorgeous colourful window panes of the Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds, and visit the Amber Fort, famous for its mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Both stops make great picture ops, so have your camera at the ready. There’s also an optional chance to see a Bollywood movie at the fabulously designed cinema at Raj Mandir.

DAYS 3-4 Agra / Dhula Village Visit the magnificent Taj Mahal at sunrise to see this iconic site in its full glory, also visiting the Red Fort and Baby Taj. Stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the now-deserted former capital of the Mughals, en route to Dhula Village where you’ll catch a glimpse of local life on a bike excursion. Tonight, chill out by the campfire under the stars.

Delhi

DAYS 7-8 Delhi Return to Delhi and float around with free time to explore this massive Indian metropolis. Bid your farewells; the adventure wraps up any time on Day 8.

Abhaneri

Agra Fatehpur Dhula Sikri Village

Jaipur

Tour Code: GAAHGT

I N D I A

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (6 nts), tented camp (1 nt)

Not included

Private vehicle, taxis, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw

ETERNAL INDIA PRICE FR $749

Jaipur Balloon Ride Take off at dawn and see the sunrise over Jaipur’s forts and palaces. Fr $260

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer

DURATION 12 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE DELHI - GOA

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 30 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Contiki cares visit to Dhonk Craft Centre, guided tours in Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur & Mumbai, entry to Taj Mahal & Agra Fort, visit to a Sikh kitchen in Delhi

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35S

DAYS 1-3 Delhi / Agra

DAYS 8-9 Udaipur / Mumbai

India’s capital is home to over 25 million people, so prepare to be greeted by Delhi’s chaotic yet charming atmosphere. Ease in with a guided city tour on Day 2, taking in the Red Fort and Jama Masjid Mosque. Next, see one of the world’s most famous monuments, the Taj Mahal in Agra. You’ll have time to explore this magnificent mausoleum, as well as Agra Fort. (2B, D)

Udaipur’s flamboyant architecture and shimmering lakes give the city a romantic Venetian feel. Take it all in on a sightseeing tour, then fly to Mumbai on Day 9. After another guided city tour, opt for a Bollywood dance class in the evening. This is your chance to showcase your slick moves, though we can’t promise you a spot on the Bollywood Walk of Fame afterwards. (2B)

DAYS 4-7 Ranthambore N.P. / Jaipur

DAYS 10-12 Goa

Leave the cities behind as you make for Ranthambore National Park, stopping en route at the Dhonk Craft Centre. Wake up to an optional sunrise safari on Day 5 to see roaming tigers! Post wildlife spotting, travel to Jaipur for a tour of the City Palace and bazaars. You’ve got a free day here, so check out the museums. (4B, L)

Fly to chilled-out Goa for a few days of well-deserved beachtime. Get a taste for the seafood at a local restaurant and opt for a final blowout at one of the nightclubs before your tour ends on Day 12. (3B)

11 08 07 04 25 22 14 29 21

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

- WE LOVE -

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

03 07 12 09 06 02 17 28 26 23 20 08 31 20 27

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $239

Delhi Jaipur

Agra

Udaipur

Tour Code: COINDI

Ranthambore N.P.

I N D I A

Mumbai

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (6 nts), tented camp (1 nt)

Not included

Private vehicle, taxis, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Goa

123

NEPAL ADVENTURE PRICE FR $1,229

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE KATHMANDU - KATHMANDU

DURATION 10 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visit to Sisterhood of Survivors Project, Barauli community homestay, tours of Kathmand & Bhaktapur, Annapurna trekking, Chitwan N.P. safari

GE 10

- WE LOVE -

ILI

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $299

E PA

ELIGIB

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Kathmandu / Bhaktapur / Pokhara

DAYS 7-8 Chitwan National Park

Kick things off in Kathmandu with a guided tour of UNESCO-listed Durbar Square. After, learn how to make Nepalese dumplings at the G for Good Sisterhood of Survivors Project, a grassroots organisation supporting survivors of trafficking. Move on to the city of Bhaktapur, a treasure trove of temples, pagodas and palaces, then drive across the mountains to Pokhara. (L)

Travel to Chitwan National Park, renowned for its concentration of rhinos, elephants, leopards and tigers. On Day 8, take a 4WD safari through the park before heading out on a guided walk in search of birds and reptiles. You’ll also overnight with the indigenous Tharu community at a G for Good homestay. (D)

DAYS 4-6 Annapurna Trek / Pokhara Spend the next few days trekking through breathtaking landscapes and isolated villages. Hike from Ghandruk to Jhinu Danda, where you’ll be rewarded with a soak in a hot spring, and continue on to Landruk. The final push comes with a five-hour trek to Kande on Day 6.

DAYS 9-10 Kathmandu Return to the capital where you can visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Highlights include the burning ghats at Pashupatinath, the Swayambhunath Temple (known as a monkey temple due to the holy primates that live here) and Pashupatinath Temple. Your tour ends on Day 10.

Tour Code: GAANNA

C H I N A

Annapurna

Pokhara

N E PA L

Kathmandu Chitwan N.P.

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts), teahouse lodges (2 nts)

1 lunch, 1 dinner

Private bus, 4WD

I N D I A

SRI LANKA & MALDIVES ADVENTURE PRICE FR $3,099

DURATION 14 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE NEGOMBO - MALÉ

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), boat crew, skipper GROUP SIZE: Max 15 (land), Max 14 (boat)

- WE LOVE -

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Sthree Café & AMBA Estate visits, tea tasting, safari in Udawalawe N.P., cooking demo, Galle City and Fort tour, seven-day dhoni boat excursion, Fulidhoo Island visit and Bodu Bodu performance, visits to spice plantation, Temple of the Tooth, tea plantation, Elephant Transit Home

ILI

ASIA

DEPARTS: Selected Sundays

LES APP

, LY

DAYS 1-4 Negombo / Kandy / Ella

DAYS 7-8 Unawatuna / Galle / Colombo

Arrive in Negombo and zip off to Kandy first thing the next day. Visit a spice plantation and G for Good’s Sthree Craft Shop on the way. The Temple of the Tooth awaits before you watch traditional folk dance performance. Day 3 is all free time. Head to Ella and spend two nights at the G for Good AMBA estate, an organic farm, taking a tour of a tea factory. (2B, L, D)

Once in Galle, go on a tour of the iconic fort and head back to Unawatuna for some much-deserved beach time. Say hello to the nation’s capital, Colombo, and hop on a flight to the Maldivian capital of Malé. It’s nothing but ocean and beaches now! (B, D)

DAYS 5-6 Ella / Udawalawe N.P. Climb up to Little Adam’s Peak for fab views from the top. It’s off to Udawalawe National Park for a safari, famous for its resident elephants and one of the best places in the country to spot animals. Switch it up from jungle to the small beach town of Unawatuna. (2B, 2D)

DAYS 9-14 The Atolls / Malé Set sail on a traditional dhoni cruise through Vaadhoo canal around idyllic coral islands, including Ambara and Fenboa Finolhu. Get to know daily life in the fishing villages of Dhiggaru, Felidhoo and Eboodhoofinolhu as well. There’s plenty of time to snorkel, swim and laze on the beach. Depart back in Malé on Day 14. (6B, 5L, 5D)

Negombo

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

11 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 9 dinners

Private vehicle, train, 4WD, local bus, plane, dhoni boat

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

S R I L A N K A

Kandy

Colombo

Ella Udawalawe N.P.

Galle Unawatuna

Tour Code: GAASSM

Hotels/guesthouses (6 nts), dhoni boat (6 nts), tented camp (1 nt)

124

DEPARTS: Selected Sundays (Jan-Dec)

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Malé

M A L D I V E S

ONE LIFE ADVENTURES SRI LANKA SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

PRICE FR $1,411

DURATION 12 DAYS

ROUTE COLOMBO - COLOMBO

ASIA

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Small Group Adventure

HIGHLIGHTS

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Western One Life group leader, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Min 4 DEPARTURES 2020: Mondays and Fridays MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,906

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES SIGIRIYA CLIMB

UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK

WHALE WATCHING

Hike right to the top of this ancient rock fortress for views AND bragging rights.

Spend the night glamping alongside Sri Lanka’s elephants.

Come between September and May to go look for blue whales!

DAYS 1-2 Colombo / Sigiriya Arrive on day one and meet your fellow travellers at a welcome dinner. The next day, spend the morning getting spiritual on a tour of the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, escape the crowds at the Buddhist monastery of Pidurangala before sitting down for dinner with a local family. (B, D)

DAYS 3-4 Sigiriya / Kandy Grab your camera and prepare to climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock. View the ancient wall paintings, the Sanskritmarked mirror wall and the huge stone lion paws guarding the ascent to the summit. Once you’re at the top, soak up the incredible views of the surrounding region. On Day 4, travel south to the city of Kandy, stopping at a spice garden along the way and donning your culinary hat for an included cooking class. Later, see the city as it was meant to be seen - from the back of a tuk tuk! (2B, L)

DAYS 5-6 Kandy / Ella

• Glamping in a national park • Udawalawe National Park safari • Tuk tuk tour of Kandy • Sigiriya Rock hike • Sri Lankan cooking class • Visits to Temple of the Tooth, Galle Fort & turtle sanctuary • Tour of a tea plantation • Whale watching from Mirissa (Sep-May) • Bike tour through local villages

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth today, a religious shrine which is said to house the tooth of Buddha himself. After you’ve got your culture fix, hop aboard a bus into the countryside and stop for a tour of a local tea plantation. Catch the train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, often labelled as being one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. Day 6 comes bearing a free morning to explore Ella. (2B)

DAYS 7-12 Udawalawe National Park / Mirissa / Hikkaduwa / Colombo

Customise your trip Maldives add-on to Maafushi Island (5 days, Malé - Malé) (CMBLYF) Fr $458

After a visit to Nine Arch Bridge and a morning hike up Little Adams Peak, it’s glamping time! Based in a camp situated just 45 minutes from Udawalawe National Park, head out on safari in search of elephants, buffaloes, monkeys, eagles, and peacocks. Next up on Day 8 is the beach town of Mirissa, your gateway to one of the world’s best blue whalespotting locations, so fingers crossed they make an appearance on your included whale-watching tour (Sep-May). If you’re travelling during the off season (Jun-Aug), there’ll be an extra safari in Sigiriya to make up for it, so you’re not missing out on Sri Lanka’s awesome wildlife. Continue on to Hikkaduwa, waking up the next morning for a tour of the famous Galle Fort and a bike ride through the surrounding villages and rice paddies. Head to the capital city of Colombo on Day 11, stopping at a small turtle sanctuary en route. On the your final night in the capital, go for one last drink with your fellow travellers. Depart whenever you like on Day 12. (6B, L, D)

S R I L A N K A

Sigiriya

Kandy

Tour Code: CMBONE

Colombo

Nuwara Eliya Ella Udawalawe N.P.

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin or double hotels (8 nts), mixed dorm in hostel (2 nts), rural glamping safari camp (1 nt)

11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Van, bus, tuk tuk, train

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Hikkaduwa Mirissa

125

LITCHFIELD N.P.

DARWIN KAKADU N.P.

VANUATU

KATHERINE CAPE TRIBULATION

PORT DOUGLAS

CAIRNS

GREAT BARRIER REEF

BROOME NORTHERN TERRITORY

NEW CALEDONIA

TOWNSVILLE AIRLIE BEACH

WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

Australia

EXMOUTH

QUEENSLAND

ALICE SPRINGS CARNARVON WESTERN AUSTRALIA

AGNES WATER

KATA TJUTA ULURU

MONKEY MIA

NOOSA BRISBANE

KALBARRI N.P.

GOLD COAST

GERALDTON

BYRON BAY

COOBER PEDY SOUTH AUSTRALIA

KALGOORLIE

COFFS HARBOUR WILPENA POUND

PERTH

MARGARET RIVER

FRASER ISLAND

HERVEY BAY

NEW SOUTH WALES

PORT AUGUSTA BLUE MOUNTAINS

ESPERANCE ADELAIDE

SYDNEY

CANBERRA

KANGAROO ISLAND VICTORIA

MELBOURNE

LAUNCESTON TASMANIA

HOBART

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

QUEENSTOWN

WE LOVE >>>>> FIJI

SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE

Known as The Coat Hanger to locals, this is the tallest steel arch bridge in the world. What's more, you can climb it! See more of Sydney on page 134.

THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

The largest living thing on earth and visible from outer space, this reef is home to over 1,500 different species of fish. See more of the Great Barrier Reef on pages 128-130 & 136-137.

HIPSTER HAVENS IN MELBOURNE

Cracking coffee, craft beer, top-notch bistros plus a vibrant arts and live music scene; edgy Melbourne is Oz's culture capital. See more of Melbourne on page 135. BAY OF ISLANDS

COROMANDEL PENINSULA

AUCKLAND ROTORUA

TAUPO NAPIER NELSON

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK WORMS

New Zealand

The Waitomo Caves are lit by luminescent glowworms. Take a boat ride through the caverns and become a true glow-mantic. See more of Waitomo Caves on page 139.

WELLINGTON

QUEENSTOWN CHRISTCHURCH

DUNEDIN

Queenstown is arguably the world’s best adrenalin capital. Bungy jumping, skydiving, jet boating, zorbing - it’s all here! See more of Queenstown on pages 139 & 141.

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

BEST OF AUSTRALIA SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE CAIRNS - SYDNEY

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

PRICE FR $3,649

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

E PA

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

, LY

Apr

LES APP

Jan

Mar

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

ILI

Feb

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

16 13 12 16 14 11 09 06 03 08 12 03 07 23 20 26 27 17 15 19 10 14 30 27 29 26 17 31

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,819

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

DAINTREE RAINFOREST

GREAT BARRIER REEF

BLUE MOUNTAINS

This tropical rainforest is older than the Amazon at180 million years old.

Composed of over 2,900 individual reefs, it can be seen from space!

Fill your Insta feed with sandstone cliffs, rugged canyons and waterfalls.

DAYS 1-3 Cairns / Cape Tribulation

• Surfing Lesson in Byron Bay • Whitsunday Islands sailing excursion • Guided rainforest walk • Orientation walk in Sydney • Blue Mountains excursion with Jenolan Caves visit, scenic railway ride & Jamison Valley walk

Leap into Cairns at any time on Day 1. Awash with cafés, bars and nightclubs, Queensland’s capital is the perfect party town for those who want to kick off their trip in style. Leave any hangover behind as you head to the lush, unspoiled region of Cape Tribulation. Stopping at Mossman Gorge en route, take an interpretive walk through the Daintree Rainforest where you may be lucky enough to see cassowaries. Day 3 is yours to explore so why not take an optional boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef or go on a river cruise to spot resident crocs? (2B, L)

DAYS 4-6 Cairns / Airlie Beach / Whitsunday Islands Back in Cairns, escape the heat with a lazy afternoon around the Esplanade Lagoon. Rise early the following morning and get your playlist ready for a full day’s travel to Airlie Beach. Next, set sail around the white-sand beaches, secluded bays and aquamarine waters of the Whitsunday Islands. Hike to an island lookout over Whitehaven Beach and grab a snorkel to glimpse the kaleidoscopic corals and vibrant underwater life of the Great Barrier Reef. Return to Airlie Beach, bronzed and windswept, for a night out on the town. (2B, L)

DAYS 7-9 Byron Bay / Port Macquarie Fly to Brisbane today and transfer to laid-back Byron Bay where you’ll have plenty of free time to potter around the town, top up your tan on the beach or kayak with dolphins. No trip to this hippy paradise would be complete without a spot of surfing, so take advantage of the included surf lesson on Day 9 and hit the waves. After, head to the coastal township of Port Macquarie. Choose to kayak along the Hastings River or visit the cute patients at the koala hospital.

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling Climb aboard a 25m catamaran and journey out to the Barrier Reef. Fr $127 Extend your trip Best of the Red Centre & Eastern Australia (12 days, Melbourne - Uluru) (GAOAMU) Fr $7,549 Cape Tribulation

DAYS 10-14 Blue Mountains / Sydney

Cairns

The final leg takes you to the Blue Mountains. Here you’ll want to keep your camera handy for snaps of expansive eucalyptus forests and plunging gorges. This region gets its name from the blue haze that the trees create. On Day 11, explore the art deco town of Katoomba, catch panoramic views of the Three Sisters and ride the world’s steepest railway. Cap it all off with a walk in Jamison Valley and a visit to the Jenolan Caves. Drive to Sydney on Day 12 and get your bearings with an orientation walk. Spend the rest of your time here at leisure, strolling around the botanical gardens or relaxing on Bondi Beach. The name Bondi is of Aboriginal origin, and is said to refer to the sound of water crashing over rocks. Enjoy one last night out with your group before the tour ends on Day 14.

Tour Code: GAOACS

Airlie Beach

Whitsunday Islands

Q U E E N S L A N D

Brisbane Byron Bay

128

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (11 nts), rainforest cabin (2 nts)

4 breakfasts, 2 lunches

Private vehicle, sailboat, plane

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

N E W S O U T H WA L E S

Port Macquarie

Blue Mountains

Sydney

BEACHES & REEFS EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $2,355

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE SYDNEY - CAIRNS

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager GROUP SIZE: Max 30

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

04* 01* 07* 04 02 13 04 08 05 03 07 05 02 06 13 11* 08* 21* 18 16 27 11 22 19 10 14 07 04 13 27 18* 15* 30 18 26 17 21 12 09 20 25* 22* 25 24 28 14 11 27 31 19 16 21 18 26 23 28 25 30

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $939

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL STAY

FRASER ISLAND

FORT HIKE

Your home for two nights will be an Eco Camp nestled on the banks of Lake Cootharaba.

Take a day trip to Fraser Island and explore the highlights by 4WD, including 75 Mile Beach.

Look out for wild koalas on Magnetic Island as you take on the Forts Walk from Horseshoe Bay.

DAYS 1-5 Sydney / Byron Bay From Sydney, head straight for the hills on Day 1 and towards the blue haze of the Blue Mountains’ eucalyptus forests. Learn about the legends behind the famous Three Sisters rock formation and explore the Jamison Valley before returning to Sydney and the enticing rays of Bondi Beach. On Day 4, hop on a flight and follow the sound of beach buskers to Byron Bay for a surfing lesson. Start early the next morning with a sunrise lighthouse tour at Cape Byron Lighthouse, then see to those post-dawn walk hunger pangs with some avo on toast. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, with optional activities including kayaking, palleboarding and beer tasting at a local brewery. (4B)

• Contiki Cares Reef HQ experience • Blue Mountains day trip • Sydney walking tour • Surf lesson in Byron Bay • Fraser Island day trip • Sunset Champagne on Magnetic Island • Forts Walk on Magnetic Island • Tjapukai Dreamtime experience • Visits to Bondi Beach & Hosanna Farm

DAYS 6-7 Noosa Everglades / Fraser Island

DAYS 8-9 Airlie Beach Home to a huge man-made lagoon and a lively bar and club scene, the resort town of Airlie Beach has swimming, boutiques and spacious beer gardens. (2B)

OPTION 2

OPTION 1

Opt for a morning beach yoga session before breakfast, a great prelude to your journey up the coast to the Noosa Everglades. The next two nights are spent at an Eco Camp, surrounded by 65 acres of natural bushland. Paradise awaits on Day 7 as you take a 4WD to Fraser Island for a drive along 75 Mile Beach, a wander through the rainforests and a dip in Lake McKenzie. Tonight, return to Noosa and your exclusive accommodation. (2B, L, D)

DAYS 8-9 Whitsundays Sailing Join a day sailing trip to Whitehaven Beach, a gorgeous beach with dazzlingly white sand - all thanks to its 98% silica composition. (2B, L, 2D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Upgrade your trip Go in Reserve & Save money: Beaches & Reefs (15 days, Sydney- Cairns) (COBRCS)

$2,665

Cairns

DAYS 10-15 Magnetic Island / Cairns On your way to Magnetic Island, stop in Townsville’s Reef HQ, home to the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium and the Great Barrier Reef’s National Education Centre. It may be small but Magnetic Island packs heaps of mountains, hiking trails, beaches and wildlife into its 20 square miles. Enjoy a Champagne sunset, and walk along the Forts Walk trail from Horseshoe Bay to the island’s WWII fortifications. On Day 13, a scenic train ride takes you to tropical Cairns. Make the most of your free time here by joining an optional boat trip out to the Great Barrier Reef, and enjoy a Dreamtime experience at Tjapukai Cultural Park the next day. On Day 15, a cable car over the treetops of the World Heritage-listed rainforest signals the end of your trip. (6B, D)

Townsville

Magnetic Island

Airlie Beach

Whitsunday Islands

Tour Code: COBRSC

Fraser Island Q U E E N S L A N D

Noosa Everglades

Byron Bay

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Eco Camp (2 nts), hostels (12 nts). Sailing option: substitute 2 nights in hostel with 2 nights on a converted sailing yacht

14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Sailing option: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners

Private vehicle, plane, train, boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

N E W S O U T H WA L E S

Blue Mountains

Sydney

129

BRISBANE TO CAIRNS: SAND DUNES & THE WHITSUNDAYS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE BRISBANE - CAIRNS

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

PRICE FR $1,949

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

LES AP

Y, PL

Jan

Feb

ILI

Jan 21

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP SIZE: Max 20, Avg 16

04 01 03 04 02 06 04 01 01 03 03 01 02 11 08 14 14 16 20 18 11 12 10 10 12 09 18 22 21 25 23 30 25 22 26 20 21 19 21 29 28 28 30 29 24 24 22

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

NOOSA EVERGLADES

FRASER ISLAND

THE WHITSUNDAYS

This watery wilderness is home to a whopping 44% of all Aussie birdlife.

Explore the world’s largest sand island on a 4WD excursion.

Travel by yacht and visit pristine Whitehaven Beach.

DAYS 1-2 Brisbane / Noosa Everglades

• G for Good Reef Ecologic snorkelling trip • Fraser Island 4WD excursion • Noosa Everglades overnight experience & canoeing excursion • Whitsunday Islands sailing excursion • Entry to Cooloola Recreation Area • Entry to Fraser Island • Visit to Whitehaven Beach

Arrive at any time in Queensland’s booming capital and take a walk down to the river for gourmet restaurants, cafés and lively music venues. The next day, head to the Noosa Everglades, a great place for wildlife spotting. Situated within the Cooloola National Park, it’s home to an impressive 44% of the entirety of Aussie birdlife and nine of the country’s deadliest snakes! Choose to go canoeing or kayaking along the calm rivers. But don’t worry, there aren’t any crocs here as the water is too cold for them. (B, L)

DAYS 3-4 Fraser Island It’s an early start today as you travel to Fraser Island. Stretching over 122 kilometres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest sand island in the world and the only known place where rainforest grows on sand. The landscape here ranges from ever-transforming dunes to clear, freshwater lakes, making for eye-widening views. Roam across the island in a 4WD vehicle, stopping for photos at the Maheno Shipwreck, Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek, before taking an overnight train north to Airlie Beach. (2B, L)

DAYS 5-7 Airlie Beach / Whitsunday Islands Sailing / Airlie Beach Hopefully you got a good night’s sleep as Day 5 marks the start of your maxi yacht sailing adventure. Setting off from the marina in Airlie Beach, you’ll spend three days cruising around the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Kick back on countless white-sand beaches, stretch your sea legs on island bush walks, learn about community efforts to protect coral reefs at the G for Good Reef Ecologic programme and explore the underwater world with your flippers and snorkel, where you’re likely to spot batfish, parrotfish and clownfish. Enjoy a final morning of sailing before heading back to the resort town of Airlie Beach for a night of dancing. (2B, L, 2D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling Climb aboard a 25m catamaran and journey out to the Barrier Reef. Fr $127 Extend your trip Most of the Coast (18 days, Sydney - Cairns) (GAOASC) Fr $2,999 Cairns

DAYS 8-10 Cairns On Day 8, catch a train to Cairns where you’ll have some free time to get active. Random fact, did you know that Cairns is home to Australia’s largest moth? Probably not. The Hercules moth can be found in Tropical North Queensland, and the wings of females can span up to 27cm in length. Opt to go snorkelling or diving on the impressive Great Barrier Reef or get your pulse racing with bungy jumping or skydiving. Cap it all off with a big night out with your group and depart at any time on Day 10.

Airlie Beach

AU S T R A L IA

Whitsunday Islands

Tour Code: GAOABC

Fraser Island

Q U EEN S L A N D

Noosa Everglades

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hostels (5 nts), maxi yacht (2 nts), overnight train (1 nt), cabin (1 nt)

5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Private vehicle, maxi yacht, boat, train, 4WD, ferry

130

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Brisbane

Noosa

DARWIN TO ADELAIDE SAFARI PRICE FR $1,444

DURATION 13 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Small Group Adventure AGE GROUP: Min 18

ROUTE DARWIN - ADELAIDE

GROUP LEADER: Tour guide GROUP SIZE: Max 24

DEPARTS: Wednesdays NOTE: Available from Adelaide on Tuesdays MY OWN ROOM : Fr $2,129 SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAY 1-7 Darwin / Kakadu N.P. / Litchfield N.P. / Darwin / Katherine Gorge / Banka Banka Cattle Station / Alice Springs

DAYS 8-13 Alice Springs / Kings Canyon / Uluru / Kata Tjuta / Kings Canyon / Uluru / Coober Pedy / Wilmington / Adelaide

From Darwin, drive to Kakadu National Park to spot crocs on an included cruise along the Mary River. See Ubirr’s Aboriginal rock art and climb the Nadab Lookout before heading to your campsite. It’s off to Litchfield National Park on Day 2 with stops at Twin and Jim Jim Falls en route. Spend the next day exploring the park’s termite mounds, streams and rock holes before heading to Katherine Gorge via Darwin. Start Day 5 with a soak in the Mataranka Thermal Pools and get your fair dinkum Outback experience with a cold beer at the Daly Waters Pub. Overnight at Banka Banka Cattle Station then head to Alice Springs where you’ll have a free day. (4B, 5L, 3D)

The quintessential Red Centre experience awaits on Day 8 with a trip to Uluru. Learn about the region’s indigenous history at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and join a guided walk around the base of the sacred site. End the day with a fiery sunset before bedding down in a traditional Aussie swag. After exploring the rugged Valley of the Winds and Kings Canyon, journey to the opal mining town of Coober Pedy on Day 11 for a night in an underground bunkhouse! The last stretch takes you to South Australia’s coastal capital via the Flinders Ranges and Wilmington. (5B, 6L, 5D)

Tour Code: DRWDAR/ADLPAC

Darwin

Kakadu N.P. Katherine Gorge Mataranka Daly Waters

Litchfield N.P.

N O RT H E R N T E R R I TO RY

Kings Canyon

Alice Springs

Uluru S O U T H

AU S T R A L I A

Coober Pedy Flinders Ranges

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Camping (8 nts), multi-share accommodation (3 nts), multi-share in underground bunkhouse (1 nt)

9 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 8 dinners

4WD, minibus

ROCK PATROL PRICE FR $672

Adelaide

TRIP STYLE: Small Group minibus tour AGE GROUP: Min 10

DURATION 6 DAYS

ROUTE ADELAIDE - ALICE SPRINGS

GROUP LEADER: Experienced guide GROUP SIZE: Max 21 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Activities as mentioned, national park fees and camping fees and equipment DEPARTS: Tuesdays and Saturdays

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAY 1 Adelaide / Wilmington

DAYS 3-4 Kata Tjuta / Kings Canyon

Rock Patrol takes full flight as you travel through the vineyards of the Clare Valley wine region on to the rugged Australian Outback. Stop at the historic town of Melrose - gateway to the Flinders Ranges - and stroll through Alligator Gorge, then reach rural Wilmington where you'll bed down for the night. (L, D)

Up Stuart Highway we go, with several dusty pitstops before reaching destination, Kings Canyon. On Day 4, hike along the tall-standing rim of Watarrka in this bushy and barren desert landscape, and spoil yourself with a visit to the Garden of Eden waterhole. (2B, 2L, 2D)

DAY 2 Coober Pedy The roadtrip continues to Coober Pedy, the opal mining capital of the world. On a tour of an underground mine and Opal Mining Museum, learn about the history of this unusual remote town. Then, get close to some cuddly kangaroos at Josephine’s Kangaroo Centre. At night, sleep underground in a cool and cosy rock-walled room, famously known as a 'dugout'. (B, L, D)

DAYS 5-6 Uluru / Alice Springs Now to see the crowning rock of all, the stunning Uluru. Set up camp, learn all about the local Aboriginal history at the cultural centre and see the changing colours of this sacred rock at sunset. On Day 6, visit the nearby domes of Kata Tjuta and hike its majestic Valley of the Winds. End in Alice Springs. (2B, 2L, D)

Tour Code: ADLROP

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Camping, sleeping swag included (4 nts), hostel (1 nt). Option to upgrade to dome tent or private cabin for 3 nights

5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners

Minibus

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

COOBER PEDY, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Kata Tjuta

Kings Canyon

Alice Springs

Uluru

Coober Pedy Wilmington

Adelaide

131

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Mary River crocodile cruise, Coober Pedy underground bunkhouse stay, visits to Litchfield N.P., Uluru N.P., Katherine Gorge, Mataranka Thermal Pools and Kings Canyon

4WD OVERNIGHT DINGO DREAMING RED CENTRE SAFARI

TRIP STYLE: Small Group 4WD tour AGE GROUP: Min 5

PRICE FR $281

DURATION 2 DAYS

ROUTE ALICE SPRINGS/ULURU - ULURU

GROUP LEADER: Experienced guide GROUP SIZE: Min 2, Max 21

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Activities as mentioned, park entry fees ACCOMMODATION: Comfort camping in permanent tents (1 nt) MEALS: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DEPARTS: Daily NOTE: Camping equipment included

This is the ideal way for anyone short on time to explore Uluru and Kata Tjuta. From Alice Springs, make for Uluru and meet your Aboriginal guide for a walk around the base on arrival. Enjoy a special Uluru sunset and head to your private campsite for an Endless Star dining experience. In the morning, watch the sun rise over Uluru and head for the domes of Kata Tjuta for a hike through the Valley of the Winds. Return to the Yulara Resort or the airport to catch your onwards flight. Tour Code: AYQODD/ASPODD

COCKATOO DREAMING RED CENTRE SAFARI PRICE FR $291

DURATION 3 DAYS

ROUTE ALICE SPRINGS/ULURU - ALICE SPRINGS

TRIP STYLE: Small Group Minibus Tour AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Local guide GROUP SIZE: Min 2, Max 27 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Uluru sunset and sunrise viewing,interpretive walk around the base, Valley of the Winds hike, Kings Canyon hike, sleep in an Aussie swag ACCOMMODATION: Swag camping (2 nts)

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

MEALS: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners (Day 1 lunch not included for Uluru departures) DEPARTS: Daily

This is a true blue Red Centre experience covering all the good stuff. If you’re starting in Alice Springs, wake early to arrive at Uluru in time for an interpretive walk around the base of the sacred site. Visit the Cultural Centre and enjoy a memorable sunset before bedding down in a traditional Aussie swag. Start Day 2 by watching the sun rise over Uluru, then head to Kata Tjuta for a hike through the Valley of the Winds. Overnight at Kings Creek Station and explore Kings Canyon before heading to Alice Springs on Day 3. Tour Code: AYQCOC/ASPCOC

4WD DRAGONFLY DREAMING TOP END SAFARI PRICE FR $800

DURATION 3 DAYS

ROUTE DARWIN - DARWIN

TRIP STYLE: Small Group 4WD Tour AGE GROUP: Min 5 GROUP LEADER: Local guide GROUP SIZE: Max 17 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Yellow Waters cruise visits to Kakadu N.P., Ubirr Art Site, Litchfield N.P. ACCOMMODATION: Permanent tent with bed or en suite lodge (2 nts) MEALS: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

The Top End’s got it all going on, from croc-spotting and natural waterholes to forests and ancient Aboriginal rock art. It all kicks off from Darwin, with a short journey to Litchfield National Park. See the famous magnetic termite mounds and waterfalls, then hit the road to UNESCO-listed Kakadu National Park where you’ll bed down in permanent tents. Start Day 2 with a cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong, keeping an eye out for saltwater crocodiles, then learn about Aboriginal culture with visits to Nourlangie Rock, Bowali Visitor Centre and Ubirr. On Day 3, go for a swim at Twin and Jim Jim waterfalls before returning to Darwin.

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Tour Code: DRWDRA

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

DEPARTS: Daily

EXMOUTH EXPLORER SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

PRICE FR $921

DURATION 7 DAYS

ROUTE PERTH - PERTH

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

NEED TO KNOWS AGE GROUP: Min 12

GROUP SIZE: Max 24

03 07 10 14 17 21

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP LEADER: Experienced guide

03 01 05 03 14 04 02 06 04 08 05 05 10 08 19 17 18 16 20 11 15 12 12 17 15 31 30 18 22 19 19 24 22 25 29 26

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES KALBARRI NATIONAL PARK

PINNACLES DESERT

NINGALOO REEF

Bright orange sandstone has been cut into psychedelic layers.

These little mounds pop out of a flat desert and go on for miles.

Grab your snorkel and go swim with turtles, whale sharks and loads more.

DAY 1 Perth / Kalbarri National Park Kick off your adventure with a guided tour through the Pinnacles Desert. After a seaside lunch, start your journey up Indian Ocean Drive for some stunning coastal views. Then, with a quick stop in Geraldton and if time allows, call by the Pink Lake (seasonal, not guaranteed) before continuing to the seaside town of Kalbarri, located in the national park, for your first night. (L, D)

• Sandboard the dunes in Lancelin • Guided tour of Pinnacles Desert • Meet dolphins at Monkey Mia • Snorkel on Ningaloo Reef • Visits to Kalbarri National Park, Coral Bay, Turquoise Bay, Vlamingh Head Lighthouse and Greenough Wildlife Park

DAYS 2-3 Kalbarri National Park / Shark Bay / Coral Bay Begin with a visit to Murchison Gorge, Nature’s Window and Z-Bend in Kalbarri National Park where water has carved its way through sandstone. You’re going to want to have the batteries charged for the pics here guys. Opt to give abseiling a go and if you’re here during wildflower season, you’ll be spoilt with colour. Spot dolphins at Monkey Mia as they’ve been known to swim up to shore every day for the last 40 years. Chill out at the beach, fill up at nearby restaurants before hitting the road again. See the stromatolites at Shark Bay, one of only two places in the world where living marine stromatolites exist. Then rest up and tuck in for the night at your accommodation in Coral Bay. (2B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 4-5 Ningaloo Reef / Exmouth Explore Ningaloo Reef at your own pace - choose to join a boat tour or just spend your time swimming off the magnificent beaches. You can spot hundreds of marine species here like whale sharks, humpback whales and turtles. Stroll along the beach, visit the shark nursery and opt to swim with the manta rays or snorkel on the reef. Once in Exmouth, adventure through Cape Range National Park on Day 5, home to rugged limestone ranges, deep canyons and only 50 kilometres of pristine beach... nothing to brag about. Turquoise Bay is lovely whether you choose to stick to dry land or dip into the water. Visit Vlamingh Head Lighthouse before tucking in for the night. (2B, L, 2D)

DAYS 6-7 Exmouth / Northbrook / Perth

Shorten your trip Coral Coaster (6 days, Perth - Exmouth) (PERCCO) Coastal Loop (4 days, Perth - Perth) (PERCLO)

Fr $668

Fr $516

Exmouth Coral Bay

Rise and shine with a visit to Carnarvon and check out the local banana or mango plantations (seasonal), staying overnight on an Australian wheat farm. With your trip coming to an end, meander back to Perth on Day 7 with a scenic drive in the countryside. Stop along the way at a Wildlife Rescue Park where you can say g’day to some Aussie wildlife, and test your sandboarding skills on the dunes en route. Arrive into Perth around 6.30pm. (2B, 2L, D)

City Name

Tour Code: PEREXE

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

Monkey Mia / Shark Bay Kalbarri N.P.

W E S T E R N AU S T R A L I A

Northbrook

Pinnacles Desert

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share dorms (6 nts)

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners

Bus

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Perth

133

SYDNEY STY LISH SUB URB S AND CITY SUR FIN’

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

We can’t blame Sydneysiders for showing off. We’ve lost many a good traveller to Sydney’s sophisticated suburbs and urban charms. Grand plans of conquering Oz get lost in the spell of Saturday markets, surfer-strewn Sunday beaches and swanky pubs. If you’re just passing through, scratch beneath the harbourfront sparkle and hostel happy hours to get disco-feverish on Oxford Street or sort through vintage in Newtown.

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

SYDNEY HARBOUR YHA THE ROCKS

$31 $82

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

ARTS HOTEL

$115 $58

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Quite literally in the Rocks, just up the hill from Sydney

LOCATION: Based in the fashionable suburb of Paddington,

Harbour Bridge and a ten-minute walk from Wynyard Station.

surrounded by boutiques, bookstores, cafés and art galleries.

VIBE: Built above archaeological remnants of colonial Sydney, this

VIBE: A charming family-run hotel. Get a more personal

is the daddy of YHAs and is more grown-up than other hostels.

experience away from the big chain hotels.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed and female-only dorms • Air con • In-room

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Outdoor

lockers • Rooftop terrace • Communal kitchen • Café and dining area • TV lounge • Harbour and bridge views • Daily activities • Private rooms

solar-heated pool • Garden courtyard • Free bike rental • Daily walking tours • 24-hour reception

SYDHAR

STAY 4 OR MORE NIGHTS AND GET A FREE UPGRADE TO A GARDEN ROOM: 01JAN20-31MAR21

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

$30

HALF DAY

LEARN TO SURF ON BONDI BEACH

SYDSUS

$71

HALF DAY

- TOP SELLER ROCK SOLID

VIBE HOTEL SYDNEY

$167 $84

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: City centre spot, just a couple

of blocks away from Oxford Street. VIBE: Easy-going hotel where style and

convenience reign supreme. HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-

room safe • iPod docking station • Rooftop pool • Bar • Café • Gym • 24-hour reception STAY 4 PAY 3: 01APR20-03JUN20, 06JUL20 - 30SEP20

134

Step inside the theatres and foyers that bring over 1,800 performances to life each year. Learn how Jørn Utzon’s vision came into existence and take photos from off-limits vantage points. Alternatively upgrade to the Backstage tour for a behind the scenes experience where you can peek inside dressing rooms and stand on stage.

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of surfing, then iconic Bondi Beach is the place to do it! Learn surf awareness and safety, paddling techniques, tips on catching waves and, most importantly, how to stand up! And, as part of a group no bigger than five per one super-experienced instructor, you’ll receive plenty of hands-on help.

SYDOPE

SYDBSE

SYDVHS

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

MELBOURNE & BEYOND MUS OS, MUS EUM S & MAC CHI ATO S

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Melbourne is… street art, music, sports, pop-up bars and coffee. It is edgy boutiques and thrift markets, vintage shops and al fresco restaurants. Basically, it’s a big sprawl of awesome and we love it. As a rule, backpackers make for beachy St. Kilda where surfers flock alongside fairy penguins. For a taste of hipster Oz, follow the beards to trendy Fitzroy where alternative culture reigns supreme. Bring your fixie bike and wayfarers.

- TOP SELLER -

SHOESTRING

ROCK SOLID

BASE MELBOURNE, ST. KILDA

$17 $28

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

CAUSEWAY 353 HOTEL

$138 $69

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Around the corner from Luna Park, close to St. Kilda

LOCATION: Right in the city centre, less than a five-minute walk

and the hipster hangout of Carlisle Street.

to Bourke Street Mall and the Regent Theatre.

VIBE: Named as one of the world’s hippest hostels by Lonely Planet,

VIBE: The perfect base for shopaholics, sports fans and sightseers

Base is ideal for those on a budget and fancying a game of pool.

alike, this warmly decorated hotel offers 142 modern rooms.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed or female-only dorms • Private rooms • Air

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Suites • Air con • In-room safe •

con • Lockers • Bar • Shared kitchen • Shared TV lounge • Games room • Luggage storage • Laundry • On-site parking (at extra cost)

Breakfast room • Steam room • Gym • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception • Off-site parking (at extra cost)

MELBBP

GREAT OCEAN ROAD IN REVERSE

$104

FULL DAY

Rolling through things in reverse, avoid hordes of eager travellers by arriving at the Twelve Apostles mid-morning to snap those flawless photos. Learn about shipwrecked lovers in Loch Ard Gorge and spot lazy koalas on a walk through the Great Otway National Park along your cruise down the Great Ocean Road. INCLUSIONS

MEL353

STAY 4 PAY 3: 01APR20-31AUG20

PHILLIP ISLAND & PENGUIN PARADE

$100

FULL DAY

Welcome to cliff-clad Phillip Island! Before heading outdoors, try out the interactive Antarctic Journey VR experience. Stroll the Nobbies’ boardwalk to see a colony of fur seals - they’re basically the dogs of the sea. Once sunset rolls around, watch a march (or a waddle) of the world’s smallest penguins as they parade onto the beach. INCLUSIONS

Departs: Daily Meals: 1 lunch Transport: Air con minibus Includes: Morning tea, National Park entry fees, on-board free Wi-Fi access, experienced driver/guide Tour Code: MELREV

Departs: Daily Meals: Not included Transport: Air con minibus Includes: Melbourne pick-up/drop-off, sightseeing as per itinerary, entry fees, free Wi-Fi on journey home, experienced driver/guide Tour Code: MELPPP

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

135

QUEENSLAND HEL LO PAR ADI SE

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

For a slower pace of life and allround good vibes, get yourself to Queensland. Home to the Great Barrier Reef, lush jungles, crashing waterfalls, sandy beaches and awesome hiking opportunities, outdoor adventures will be right on your doorstep. Feel the rapids white water rafting in Cairns, sail the Whitsundays, go diving and snorkelling to admire kaleidoscopic marine life and choose from countless national parks to explore. Winning!

- TOP SELLER -

CLASS ACT

SHOESTRING

NOMADS BRISBANE, BRISBANE

$15 $26

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

VIBE HOTEL GOLD COAST, GOLD COAST

ROOM ONLY

$97 $49

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

FR$18 BASE AIRLIE BEACH RESORT, AIRLIE BEACH FR$32

ROOM ONLY

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Facing Central Station, within

LOCATION: On the banks of the Nerang

LOCATION: 50 metres from the lagoon

easy reach of Southbank Parklands.

River, a short walk from the beach.

and a short walk to Abell Point Marina.

VIBE: Bubbly hostel arranged over five

VIBE: Newly renovated hotel boasting

VIBE: Clean, simple dorms for tight purse

floors in a heritage building.

spacious rooms and a riverside sundeck.

strings and social butterflies.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Balcony •

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms

• In-room lockers • Rooftop terrace • Bar • Restaurant • Shared kitchen • ATM

Air con • In-room safe • Outdoor pool • Restaurant • Bar • Gym • Riverside sundeck

• Outdoor pool • Bar • Restaurant • Shared kitchen • BBQ area • Outdoor cinema

BNEPAL

OOLVHG

STAY 4 PAY 3: 01APR20-14OCT20

GZCBAB

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

GILLIGAN’S RESORT, CAIRNS

$16 $49

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROCK SOLID

BAY VILLAGE TROPICAL RETREAT

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

$103 $52

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Situated in the heart of Cairns, next door to the

LOCATION: Just two minutes’ walk from the Cairns Esplanade

famous Rusty’s Market and just a short walk from the marina.

waterfront and a short drive from the airport.

VIBE: This award-winning spot blends flashpacker dorms with

VIBE: A boutique-style Cairns retreat with plenty of rejuvenating

modern hotel rooms, and boasts a packed social calendar.

qualities. Set amid lush tropical gardens.

HIGHLIGHTS: En-suite mixed or female-only dorms • Private

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Outdoor pool • Terrace

rooms • Air con • Outdoor pool • Restaurant • Poolside bar • Nightclub • DJs • ATM • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

• Bar • Balinese restaurant • Barbecue area • Luggage storage • Laundry • Free on-site parking

STAY 3 PAY 2 ON 4-BED & 6-BED MIXED & FEMALE DORMS: 01JAN20-31MAR 21; STAY 4 PAY 3: 01JAN20-31MAR21

136

CNSGIL

STAY 4 PAY 3: 01APR20-30JUN20, 01JAN21-31MAR21

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

ACNSBV

COOL DINGO FRASER ISLAND TOUR PRICE FR $381

DURATION 3 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Any age GROUP LEADER: Experienced guide

ROUTE HERVEY BAY - HERVEY BAY

GROUP SIZE: Min 2

ACCOMMODATION: Wilderness Lodge or hotel

(2 nts)

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore Fraser Island, then this fully guided three-day tour might be just the ticket. Unlike other tours, you won’t be expected to camp, cook or drive, and at the end of each day you’ll get to enjoy restaurant meals and bed down in a comfy room in a timber lodge or an air con hotel room. There’s little let-up in the itinerary over these three days, which takes you to all of Fraser Island’s highlights and includes a free drink and an interactive bush tucker experience.

MEALS: Lodge option: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Hotel option: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches DEPARTS: Daily

Tour Code: HVBFF2

EXPLORE WHITSUNDAYS: 2-DAY FUN SAILING PRICE FR $277

DURATION 2 DAYS

ROUTE AIRLIE BEACH - AIRLIE BEACH

TRIP STYLE: Sailing AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Skipper, host GROUP SIZE: Max 24 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visits to Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout, all snorkelling gear ACCOMMODATION: Open plan or private

cabins MEALS: All meals on-board (plus snacks), BYO alcohol TRIP STYLE

DEPARTS: Daily

Is there a better way to travel than clipping through the waves with the sun on your face and wind in your hair? We think not! Covering as much ground (or sea) as possible on a former racing yacht, this two-day cruise around the Whitsundays is ideal if you’re tight on time and money. Lend a hand hoisting the main sail or let the crew do all the work while you sit back and make the most of the BYO beer policy. Days are spent snorkelling pristine reefs, sunbathing on the huge deck and socialising with your fellow shipmates. Tour Code: WDS2SA

PASSIONS OF PARADISE

$125

FULL DAY

Experience life beneath the waves as you plunge into the ocean that encompasses the Great Barrier Reef. Travel on a brand new luxury high-speed catamaran to two Outer Reef destinations chosen from a selection of 26 exclusive locations and explore the reef the way you want to.

CAPE TRIBULATION GO WILD OVERNIGHT

$150

2 DAYS

Travel into the Daintree Rainforest and bed down in a beach house in the heart of Cape Tribulation for an Aussie adventure to remember. On this tour, you’ll visit the Wildlife Habitat, enjoy a rainforest walk, float along the Daintree River on a cruise and try out an optional horse ride. INCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS

Departs: Daily Meals: 1 lunch Includes: Unlimited snorkelling with equipment, guided snorkelling tours, tea, coffee, certified eco guides on board Bonus Offer: Pre-purchase this package to receive AUD $20 bar tab Tour Code: CNSPAS

Departs: Daily Accommodation: Shared room in beach house (1 nt) Meals: 1 lunch Transport: Minibus, boat Includes: Return transfers from Cairns/ Port Douglas, Wildlife Habitat entry, rainforest walk, river cruise Tour Code: PTITJS/CNSTJS

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

137

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

ESCORTED ADVENTURE

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Return ferry, guided 4WD tour with visits to Central Station, Pile Valley, Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, Maheno Shipwreck, the Pinnacles, Indian Head, Champagne Pools, Lake Wabby & Hammerstone Sandblow, sunset drinks overlooking the western bay from Kingfisher Bay Resort, ranger-guided Aussie bush tucker experience, hike to Lake Wabby

KIWIANA PANORAMA EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 16 DAYS

PRICE FR $2,559

ROUTE AUCKLAND - CHRISTCHURCH

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager and Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45 Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

01 02 05 06 08 09 03 04 05 05 06 16 09 02 06 13 06 21 22 24 17 11 12 13 13 14 20 17 10 22 17 10 25 19 20 21 21 22 28 25 18 25 18 27 28 29 30 31 26

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,369

HIGHLIGHTS

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL STAY

HOBBITON

ROTORUA

Settle down at a ski lodge on Mt. Ruapehu, complete with outdoor hot tubs and a saloon bar.

These tiny houses are just perfect for a Hobbit. See the set and feel like a giant for a day.

Amid the steam, you’ll meet the local Mˉaori community over a traditional hangi dinner.

DAYS 1-4 Auckland / Rotorua / Lake Taupo / Mount Ruapehu Meet your group in Auckland, then set off for Hobbiton, the Shire made for ‘Lord of the Rings’. Continue to the thermal mud pools of Rotorua for a Mˉaori cultural performance and hangi dinner. The next day is yours to explore at your own pace. How about a downhill race inside a transparent Ogo ball? The thermal wonderland of Wai-OTapu is another visitor favourite, with neon-coloured pools and spurting geysers that’ll leave you gobsmacked. Leave Rotorua’s geothermal features for the sparkling Lake Taupo on Day 3. En route, you’ll stop to see the furry flightless emblem of New Zealand, the kiwi. Then it’s off to Huka Falls and the popular resort town of Lake Taupo in time for an evening cruise. Spend the next day around Mount Ruapehu where you can take a mountain bike round the trails and sleep at a heritage lodge by the base of the mountain. Between July and September you can spend these days skiing Ruapehu’s snow fields. (3B, D)

DAYS 5-9 Wellington / Marlborough Sounds / Kaikoura / Christchurch / Hokitika / Franz Josef Hit the Desert Road on Day 5 and make your way to capital Wellington. Find your feet with a guided tour and find out all about Welly’s galleries, street festivals and trendy bars. And as for the nightlife? With a free day ahead of you tomorrow, you can go as hard as you want. South Island is calling on Day 7! The ferry ride through Marlborough Sounds is among the most beautiful in the world and things get even better on dry land as you continue down the coast of Kaikoura to visit a seal colony. Stay the night in Christchurch, then head west on Day 8 through the Southern Alps to Hokitika, and later on to Franz Josef. The immense glacier is yours to explore on Day 9, with optional activities including hikes, ice climbing and even a heli-hike tour (the budget stretch is definitely worth it!). (5B, D)

• Guided tour of Hobbiton • Traditional Mˉaori cultural experience • Rainbow Springs Kiwi Encounter tour • Special Stay at Mt. Ruapehu • Seal colony visit • Christchurch city tour • Native greenstone carving demo • Thunder Creek Falls visit • Tour & tasting in a Central Otago wine vineyard & craft brewery • Te Anau farm visit • Cruise Milford Sound

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Reverse your trip Kiwiana Panorama (16 days, Christchurch - Auckland) (CONPZC) Fr $2,509 Shorten your trip Kiwiana Panorama (14 days, Auckland - Queenstown) (CONBZA) Fr $2,199

Auckland

DAYS 10-16 Wanaka / Queenstown / Milford Sound / Te Anau / Lake Oahu / Christchurch Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife at Haast Pass and Thunder Creek Falls, and visit lakeside Wanaka en route to Queenstown. Once you reach the world adventure capital, it’s two whole days of adrenalin chasing. Sky diving, bungy jumping, horseback riding, flyboarding and white water rafting are just few of the many optionals this wild region is serving up. Take your pick and get making memories to last a lifetime, followed by another straight away on Day 14 as you travel through Milford Sound - repeatedly hailed as New Zealand’s most beautiful spot - en route to lakeside Te Anau. Visit a local farm and overnight in Lake Oahu on your final approach back to Christchurch. (7B, 3D)

Rotorua Lake Taupo Mt Ruapehu N E W Z E A L A N D

Picton

Tour Code: CONPZA

Malborough Sounds Hokitika Franz Josef / Fox Glacier

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts), lodges (7 nts) special stay (1 nt)

15 breakfasts, 5 dinners

Modern air con coach with power points for charging

138

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Wellington

Kaikoura

Christchurch

Lake Tekapo Lake Ohau Milford Wanaka Sound Queenstown Arrowtown Te Anau

NEW ZEALAND EXPRESS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 9 DAYS

PRICE FR $3,259

ROUTE AUCKLAND - QUEENSTOWN

GE 10

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

NEED TO KNOWS

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB T

LES APP

, LY

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

18 23

G FOR GOOD

WAITOMO CAVES

DOUBTFUL SOUND

All proceeds from a guided walking tour of Christchurch go towards community workshops.

Venture underground to see a series of caverns lit up by thousands of tiny glowworms - magical!

With its tumbling waterfalls, forestclad cliffs and serene lakes, there’s no doubt this fiord is stunning.

DAYS 1-2 Auckland / Rotorua It all kicks off in the City of Sails where you’ll meet the rest of your travel crew and prepare for your voyage through both the North and South islands. The next day, head to the Waitomo Caves to see one of nature’s most mesmerising light shows. These underground caverns are lit up by thousands of tiny glowworms! Later, continue on to Rotorua, known for its bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers, hot springs and fascinating Mˉaori Culture. (B)

DAYS 3-4 Rotorua / Christchurch You have free time in the North Island’s self-proclaimed ‘adrenalin capital’ on Day 3. Feeling brave? Opt to go white water rafting or zorbing. If throwing yourself down a hill in a giant inflatable hamster ball isn’t your thing, we recommend taking a trip to Wai-O-Tapu’s geothermal park or the Hobbiton Movie Set. In the evening, learn more about the Mˉaori culture with a local dinner experience. After a short flight to Christchurch on Day 4, enjoy a walking tour run by a G for Good non-profit organization. The city was hit by a massive earthquake in 2011 and many buildings were completely demolished. Since then, Christchurch has tried to rebuild itself, and you’ll get the chance to find out all about this process from your local guide. (2B, D)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

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Oct

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Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP STYLE: Classic

01 12 03 28 25 25 22

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,119

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • G for Good Resourceful Otautahi walking tour of Christchurch • Maori cultural experience • Vineyard visit and wine tasting • Hiking in Aoraki/Mt. Cook N.P. • Doubtful Sound boat cruise • Visits to Waitomo Caves, Aoraki/Mt. Cook N.P. Visitor’s Centre & Fiordland N.P.

DAYS 5-6 Lake Ohau / Queenstown Today, drive to Lake Ohau via the stunning Lake Tekapo. Spend the afternoon hiking in Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park and learn about the famous mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary at the visitor’s centre. On Day 6, head to Queenstown, stopping at local vineyard for a wine tasting session en route (now that’s our kind of pit stop!). The birthplace of bungy jumping and the so-called ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, this resort town is an outdoor playground, and where you’ll spend the next three nights. (2B, D)

Auckland

DAYS 7-9 Doubtful Sound / Queenstown Take in the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park on a cruise around Doubtful Sound, keeping an eye out for waterfalls and local wildlife along the way. Head back to Queenstown and enjoy a whole free day on Day 8. Optional activities here include skydiving, paragliding, jet boating, hiking, mountain biking and, of course, bungy jumping. Looking to take it a little slower? Why not catch the gondola up to the top of Bob’s Peak for some great views? Toast your trip with a night on the town, then head off on Day 9. (3B, L) Tour Code: GAONAQ

Rotorua N E W

Z E A L A N D

Christchurch Lake Tekapo

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Private vehicle, plane, boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Queenstown Doubtful Sound

139

BEST OF THE NORTH ISLAND PRICE FR $929

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE AUCKLAND - WELLINGTON

DURATION 7 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Conservation farm visit, sea kayaking excursion, Maori ˉ cultural experience, orientation walk in Wellington, surf lesson, eel farm visit

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

E PA

Jan

GE 10

DEPARTURES 2020/21: ELIGIB

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

GROUP SIZE: Max 20, Avg 16

01 01 04 04 02 13 11 08 05 03 04 02 02 04 05 07 11 16 27 25 22 12 17 07 05

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

DAYS 1-3 Auckland / Raglan

DAY 5 Taupo

Arrive in Auckland, meet your crew and rest up. The next morning, a scenic drive whisks you away to an eel farm before you hit the water yourself in a sea kayak to a nearby harbour for lunch. Soak up Raglan’s laid-back way of life at a lodge overlooking the Tasman Sea and try to master the waves during a surf lesson. (2B, L, D)

Spend a night by the shores of Lake Taupo, home to ten-metre high Mˉaori carvings and watersports galore. Whilst here, opt for white water rafting, mountain biking, relaxing at a geothermal park, hitting up a nearby spa or journeying into Middle Earth on a Hobbiton Tour. (B)

DAY 4 Waitomo / Rotorua Start your day with the geothermal steam of Rotorua as you peer at its bubbling mud pools and geysers. Once the evening rolls around, your group has the privilege of meeting the locals on an excursion to a Marae (Maori ˉ meeting place). Your Maori ˉ guide will let you know what’s what as your group eats a traditional feast after a welcoming ceremony and learning the legendary haka. (B)

DAYS 6-7 Wellington Head to Wellington and check out Te Papa, the fascinating National Museum brimming with historical artefacts. If you fancy, opt to take the cable car to the hills overlooking the city or stroll along Oriental Parade. Go out with a bang by hitting the town with your fellow travellers. The trip wraps up on Day 7 at any time. (2B)

Tour Code: GAONNI

Auckland Raglan Rotorua

Waitomo

Tongariro N.P. N E W Z E A L A N D

Wellington

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostels (4 nts), basic lodges (2 nts).

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Private vehicle, kayak

FULL NORTH ISLAND PRICE FR $1,429

North Island Encompassed 10 days (GAONNE)

Fr $1,429

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Tour guide

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE AUCKLAND - AUCKLAND

GROUP SIZE: Max 24 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Mˉaori cultural performance, sand boarding, wildlife boat trip, 4WD tour, Tongariro Crossing DEPARTS: Sundays (Oct-Apr) NOTE: In off-peak season (May-Sep) this operates as a 13-day itinerary, departing on Saturdays (AKLDFN)

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Auckland / Paihia / Hokianga

DAYS 6-7 Rotorua / Tongariro N.P.

Leave Auckland with the Stray Journeys crew and kick things off with a Hole in the Rock cruise in the Bay of Islands. Continue on to Hokianga Harbour and opt for a Maori-guided ˉ twilight encounter to see the God of the Forest, the world’s largest kauri tree. Sandboarding is up next before heading south through the Waipoua Forest to Kai Iwi Lakes, then return to Auckland. (2B, 2D)

Soak up a free day in Rotorua. You’ve got white water rafting, mountain biking and ziplining all at your fingertips (at extra cost). Get those legs moving on Day 7 and hike on the famous Tongariro Crossing, rated as New Zealand’s best one-day walk. Alternatively, sign up to a shorter walk in the volcanic region. (2B, L, D)

DAYS 4-5 Hahei (Coromandel) / Rotorua Drive on to Hahei Beach where you can take a coastal walk to the iconic Cathedral Cove, followed by a classic Kiwi barbecue for dinner. The next morning, visit Hot Water Beach en route to Rotorua. If you catch the tide right, dig up your own hot tub in the sand. Wind down with an interactive Maori ˉ culture performance. (B, 2D)

140

TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

Paihia Hokianga

DAYS 8-10 Blue Duck Station / Wellington Head to the remote Blue Duck Station, a 7,200-acre country farm for sheep and beef. Next, buckle up for a 4WD safari through the wild bush. In Wellington, check out the lively arts and culture scene. Depart from Auckland on Day 10. (3B, D)

Tour Code: AKLFNI

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Quad-share hostel (3 nts), lodge/cabin (6 nts)

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners

Minibus, ferry

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Hahei

Auckland Rotorua Blue Duck Station

Tongariro N.P.

N E W Z E A L A N D

Wellington

‘SWEET AS’ SOUTH EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $1,335

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE CHRISTCHURCH - CHRISTCHURCH

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager and Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 53, Avg 45

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

02 03 02 02 05 06 08 01 02 02 03 05 02 07 03 10 07 18 19 21 14 16 05 10 10 11 13 10 11 19 18 11 18 24 17 18 18 19 21 18 15 26 15 22 25 26 27 29 22 23

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $795

HIGHLIGHTS

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

MILFORD SOUND

BUNGY JUMPING

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

Take a cruise of the dramatic and picturesque fiord, once voted the world’s top travel destination.

Queenstown is the birthplace of the bungy and attracts those opting to cross it off their bucket list.

This glacier is so remote, you need a helicopter to get to it. Out here, you’re totally ice-olated.

• Milford Sound Cruise • Vineyard visit and wine tasting • Southern Country farm experience • Visits to Lakes Takepo, Pukaki and Geraldine • Scenic drives through Haast Pass and across Southern Alps • Native greenstone demonstration and carving

DAYS 1-2 Christchurch / Lake Ohau / Te Anau Meet up with your crew in creative Christchurch, where earthquakes inspired this quirky city into an architectural rebirth. Things might get a little wet as you pass a few lakes before finally arriving at Lake Ohau, glistening under the imposing Mt. Cook and surrounding Southern Alps. Day 2 sees a full-day drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. On the way, stop at a working farm for a peek into rural life here. (B, D)

DAYS 3-6 Queenstown The birthplace of the bungy jump (we love them but HOW did it come about?), Queenstown is a world adventure capital. Start the exploring on the way with an included cruise in Milford Sound. Then, spend the afternoon finding your feet before an epic night on the town. Heavy head or not, you’ll need to get up early on Day 5 to plan the next two days of activities. For bungy, the AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge is where it’s at. Done that? Choose from a 109-metre high canyon swing, white water rafting, horse riding, skydiving - pause for breath - inflatable kayaks or hiking. (4B, D)

DAYS 4-6 Ski Queenstown (Upgrade Option) Want to carve up some of the great ski mountains around Queenstown? You can if you’re travelling in July or August! Opt to hit the slopes either by ski or board for two full days. (3B, D)

DAYS 7-8 Franz Josef Glacier Leave Queenstown behind and check out the lakeside beauty of Wanaka on your way to New Zealand’s pin-up spot, the almighty Franz Josef Glacier. Keep one eye out for wildlife and the other on the stunning Haast Pass and Thunder Creek Falls. It’s completely up to you how you tackle Franz Josef Glacier on Day 8, so choose from a variety of optional walks, hikes or heli-rides over and around Mt. Cook. (2B, D)

Extend your trip Sweet as South (10 days, Wellington - Christchurch) (CONSHA) Fr $1,555 Sweet as South (10 days, Christchurch - Wellington) (CONSHC) Fr $1,555 Head up into the mountains Ultimate NZ Ski (7 days, Queenstown - Queenstown) (COCZSKI) Fr $1,195

N E W Z E A L A N D

DAY 9 Franz Josef Glacier / Christchurch Make tracks through the Southern Alps and check out traditional Maori ˉ greenstone carving in the gold rush town of Hokitika. Then travel along the old trade route through Arthur’s Pass. Your trip wraps up back in the hipster capital of Christchurch, so grab a craft beer and get exploring if you didn’t on your first go here. (B)

Tour Code: CONSZCD/CONSZAD

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

Hokitika Franz Josef / Fox Glacier Haast Pass

Arthur’s Pass

Christchurch Lake Tekapo Lake Ohau

Wanaka Queenstown Te Anau

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Lodges (3 nts), hotel (1 nt), pod hostel (4 nts)

8 breakfasts, 3 dinners

Air con coach with free Wi-Fi and power points for charging

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

141

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

NEED TO KNOWS

HAVANA MEXICO

VARADERO CANCÚN

MÉRIDA

THE BAHAMAS

CUBA

MEXICO CITY

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

BELIZE CITY

ACAPULCO

BELIZE

JAMAICA

HAITI

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

GUATEMALA

HONDURAS

ANTIGUA

TEGUCIGALPA

EL SALVADOR

MANAGUA COSTA RICA

SAN JOSÉ

BARBADOS

NICARAGUA

TORTUGUERO

CARTAGENA PANAMA CITY

VENEZUELA

PANAMA

MEDELLÍN

GUYANA

ZIPAQUIRÁ

SURINAME

FRENCH GUIANA

BOGOTÁ COLOMBIA

QUITO GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS

ECUADOR

GUAYAQUIL

MANAUS NATAL

PERU

LIMA

BRAZIL

CUZCO

SALVADOR

BRASÍLIA BOLIVIA

NAZCA AREQUIPA

LA PAZ

SUCRE POTOSÍ

RIO DE JANEIRO

ATACAMA DESERT

PARAGUAY

SÃO PAULO

IGUASSU FALLS

CURITIBA

SALTA

CHILE

FLORIANÓPOLIS ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

CÓRDOBA

SANTIAGO

ARGENTINA

Antarctica

URUGUAY

MENDOZA

MONTEVIDEO BUENOS AIRES

SAN CARLOS DE BARILOCHE VALDES PENINSULA

1,000 KM TORRES DEL PAINE

EL CALAFATE

PUNTA ARENAS USHUAIA

WE LOVE >>>>> THE INCA TRAIL

Trek through mystic jungle, navigate your way through cloud forests and uncover the Inca-redible ruins of Machu Pichhu on this otherworldly trek. See more of The Inca Trail on pages 150-151. UYUNI SALT FLATS, BOLIVIA

Crossing this surreal landscape is like being on another planet! Expect coloured lakes, hot springs and endless photo ops. See more of Bolivia on pages 145-146. WILDLIFE IN COSTA RICA

Find exotic birds, sleepy sloths, ambling tortoises, poisonous snakes, cheeky monkeys, colourful frogs and much more in this wildlife-rich country. See more of Costa Rica on pages 170-172.

ANCIENT SITES, MEXICO

You can't get away from them in this region of Central America. You've got Chitchén Itzá, Tikal and the Teoihuacán Pyramids! See more of Mexico on pages 173-175. RAINBOW MOUNTAIN, PERU

Recently discovered, this multicoloured mountain is rapidly becoming an Instagram favourite. The trek there is challenging, but the views are totally worth it! See more of Peru on page 155.

LATIN AMERICA

QUITO

Great SOUTH AMERICAN

AMAZON JUNGLE

BAÑOS

CUENCA

MÁNORCA

HUANCHACO MACHU PICCHU LIMA

J OURN EYS

OLLANTAYTAMBO

PARACAS NAZCA COLCA CANYON AREQUIPA

CUZCO

LAKE TITICACA LA PAZ

PUNO UYUNI

SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA

SUCRE POTOSÍ PARATY

UYUNI SALT FLATS

RIO DE JANEIRO

SÃO PAULO IIHA GRANDE

SALTA IGUASSU FALLS

ESTANCIA

COLONIA MONTEVIDEO

BUENOS AIRES

a truly epic adventure

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

With this easy touring concept, make an entire continent your playground. Each segment of the Great South American Journey is designed to run back-to-back, so you have the flexibility to choose just one bite-sized segment or mix and match your favourite chunks into a custom-fit route. If time’s on your side, why not do the entire trip? Seven countries and 65 days of amazing scenery and unique experiences could equal the trip of a lifetime! FR $1,399 QUITO TO LIMA: SURF TOWNS & HOT SPRINGS 15 DAYS

FR $2,699 LIMA TO LA PAZ: SANDBOARDING & SUNSETS 21 DAYS

Discover the best of Ecuador and Peru as you hit the Andes, the Amazon and the Pacific Coast. From Quito, venture into the Amazon Rainforest for a jungle homestay and guided nature walks. Next, take in colonial cities, Inca ruins, surf towns and deserts en route to Peru's capital, Lima.

Three weeks in Peru and Bolivia promises to be inspiring, hectic and absolutely bonkers pretty much all at the same time. Launching from Lima, tick off the Nazca Lines, Lake Titicaca and the Colca Canyon before hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

GASEQM

LIMA TO LA PAZ: GAJML LA PAZ TO LIMA: GAJLM

$2,799

LA PAZ TO BUENOS AIRES: FR$1,899 ANDES & THE ATACAMA 15 DAYS

BUENOS AIRES TO RIO: FALLS & FOOTY 17 DAYS

Starting in lofty La Paz, this journey is all about intense contrasts, with some seriously impressive scenery to boot. A highlight has to be Bolivia's surreal salt flats. End in Buenos Aires, glass of malbec in hand. (see page 146)

From the steakhouses of Buenos Aires to the samba clubs of Rio, and everything in between, this trip serves up a tempting trio of countries with a side of surging waterfalls, blissed-out beaches and friendly locals. (see page 162)

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LA PAZ TO BUENOS AIRES: GASBLB BUENOS AIRES TO LA PAZ: GASABL

BUENOS AIRES TO RIO: GAJBR RIO TO BUENOS AIRES: GAJRB

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

COMBINE THESE JOURNEYS QUITO TO LA PAZ: AMAZON & ANCIENT CULTURES 35 Days (GASEQL) Route:

$3,499

LIMA TO BUENOS AIRES: DESERTS & DANCING 35 Days (GASPMB/GASABM) Route:

$4,599

LA PAZ TO RIO DE JANEIRO 31 Days (GASBLR) Route:

$4,599

LIMA TO RIO DE JANEIRO 51 Days (GASPMR/GASZRA) Route:

$5,999

ILI

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ELIGIB

GE 10

HIGHLIGHTS T

LES APP

, LY

SALT FLATS

IGUASSU FALLS

Up your Instagram game on a 4WD trip across one of South America's most striking natural landscapes.

A natural border between Argentina and Brazil, this surging body of water is made up of 275 separate waterfalls.

T H E G R E AT S O U T H A M E R I C A N J O U R N E Y: QUITO TO RIO ADVENTURE 65 DAYS, FR$7,749 DAYS 1-8 Quito / Tena / Baños / Cuenca

DAYS 39-45 Potosí / Uyuni / Salt Flats / San Pedro de Atacama

This epic (and we mean EPIC) journey spends little time in Quito and aims straight for the Amazon Rainforest. With a wooden hut as your base, visit local communities, go on nature walks and spot wildlife. Swap the steamy jungle for the cool highlands of Baños on Day 5. Optional activities here include white water rafting and canyoning. You’ve had your adrenaline fix, now it’s time to put your culture cap on. The museums and churches of colonial Cuenca call on Day 8. (4B, 3L, 3D)

Nestled in the shadow of Cerro Rico, Potosí is a town rich in history, architecture and silver. Spend two nights here, then travel to Uyuni, gateway to the Salt Flats. Make sure your camera is fully charged because Day 42 signals the start of your three-day 4WD excursion across the Salar de Uyuni and surrounding desert. This surreal landscape is an undisputed Instagram playground, so be sure to pack some props! Pass volcanoes, hot springs, vividly hued lagoons and unusual rock formations until you reach San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. (6B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 9-21 Máncora / Trujillo / Lima / Huacachina / Nazca / Arequipa / Colca Canyon

DAYS 46-51 Salta / Buenos Aires / Colonia

Say adios Ecuador and hola Peru! Hop over the border and make for Mancora on Day 9. After some welcome beach time, continue down the coast to lively Lima via Trujillo. Explore the capital city’s diverse neighbourhoods before heading to the desert oasis of Huacachina for a sunset sandboarding session. An optional flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines is up for grabs on Day 18. Over the next few days, get acquainted with Arequipa and the impressive Colca Canyon. (4B, D)

Think you've seen it all? We've barely scratched the surface. Stepping onto Argentine soil for the first time, journey to Salta for vineyards, empanadas and folk music clubs. On Day 48, fly to Buenos Aires where you have two days to explore. Take in a tantalising tango show, check out the colourful La Boca district and fill up on succulent steak. Bellies and memory cards full, it's time to tick off another country - Uruguay! Enjoy an orientation walk upon arrival in quaint Colonia. (2B)

DAYS 22-30 Cuzco / Ollantaytambo / Inca Trail to Machu Picchu / Cuzco

DAYS 52-58 Montevideo / Estancia Stay / Iguassu Falls

This leg of the trip is all about inca-redible ruins. After two free days in Cuzco, visit a G for Good women's weaving co-op, then continue on to Ollantaytambo. Rest up because Days 26 to 29 are spent trekking the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It’s certainly a challenge, but you’ll be rewarded with unbeatable views and a real sense of achievement. Enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed site, then return to Cuzco where pisco sours await. (8B, 3L, 3D)

DAYS 59-65 Paraty / Ilha Grande / Rio de Janeiro

DAYS 31-38 Puno / Lake Titicaca / La Paz / Sucre A boat trip and homestay on Lake Titicaca marks the halfway point of your tour. From South America's largest lake to the world's highest administrative capital, cross into Bolivia and continue on to lofty La Paz. Oxygen bar anyone? Stepping off the night bus on Day 37, you'll find yourself amongst Sucre's whitewashed buildings, pretty plazas and vibrant markets. (7B, L, D)

NEED TO KNOWS AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 14

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Feb

The party isn't over just yet, we've still got one more country to see. Brazil beckons on Day 59. After all that adventure, enjoy some well-deserved downtime on the blissed-out beaches of Paraty and Ilha Grande, then head to Rio de Janeiro for a final caipirinha-fuelled blowout. Your tour ends on Day 65. (4B)

Tour Code: GASEQR

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Jan

Move on to Montevideo on Day 52. Home to nearly half of Uruguay's population, the eclectic capital is a great place to while away a couple of days. Leaving the city behind, venture into the countryside and experience life at a working ranch. Go fishing, learn how to milk a cow and make empanadas, then cross back into Argentina. Another day, another unique destination, this time Iguassu Falls. Catch amazing views from the walkways or, for a different angle, take an optional boat ride to the base of the falls. Just be prepared to get wet! (6B, 2L, 2D)

• G for Good stays at Shandia Community Lodge & Jukil Community Lodge • G for Good visits to Ccaccaccollo Women's Weaving Co-op and a Rio favela • Amazon Rainforest excursion • Sunset sandboarding, Huacachina • Pachamanca-style dinner, Nazca • Lake Titicaca homestay

• Colca Canyon excursion • 4-day Inca Trail hike • Guided tour of Machu Picchu • 3-day Salar de Uyuni excursion • Estancia stay • Visits to a Huacachina winery, Sacred Valley brewery & Iguassu Falls (Argentina side)

04 01 07 04 02 06 04 01 12 03 14 05 02 18 29 14 18 16 20 25 08 26 10 21 26 16 21 25 23 27 22 17 28 30

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,709

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple twin-share hotels (38 nts), multi-share hostels (9 nts), jungle homestay (2 nts), G for Good community lodge (3 nts), overnight buses (6 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt), multishare estancia/ranch (2 nts)

41 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners

Local bus, boat, truck, motorised canoe, train, hiking, plane, 4WD

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

145

LATIN AMERICA

MACHU PICCHU You've seen it a million times on social media, but nothing can prepare you for the first time you clap eyes on it.

LA PAZ TO BUENOS AIRES: ANDES & THE ATACAMA DESERT SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE LA PAZ - BUENOS AIRES

LATIN AMERICA

PRICE FR $1,899

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

E PA

GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 14

, LY

HIGHLIGHTS

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Apr

LES APP

Jan

Mar

ILI

Feb

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

03 07 06 03 01 01 03 03 04 02 02 14 04 05 05 06 10 09 06 08 05 10 07 07 05 06 18 08 12 08 10 14 20 10 11 08 13 10 11 09 09 21 15 19 13 21 23 13 18 19 20 14 25 12 13 25 22 22 20 27 17 22 26 24 21 28 16 16 28 25 26 22 21 25 29 27 24 26 18 29 27 29 31 28 30 20 23

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $599

G FOR GOOD

UYUNI SALT FLATS

WITCHES’ MARKET IN LA PAZ

Your stay at the Jukil Community Lodge helps support local education initiatives.

Parading a sight so beautiful, it literally looks like heaven on earth.

Ever wanted to cast a love spell on a crush? This is the place to learn.

DAYS 1-4 La Paz / Sucre

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • G for Good Jukil Community Experience in Santiago de Agencha • 4WD excursion to the Salar de Uyuni

Start your adventure on an all-time high (literally) in La Paz, situated nearly 4,000 metres above sea level. You’ll want to take it easy as you start to acclimatise to the altitude in this soaring city. With a free morning on Day 2, wander around the museums or grab some sorcerer’s goods at the Witches’ Market. Then, hop aboard the overnight bus to Sucre. Spend the next two days exploring Bolivia’s judicial capital and the former home of the Spanish Royal Court. Optional activities here include hiking, mountain biking and an excursion to nearby dinosaur tracks. (2B)

DAYS 5-9 Potosí / Uyuni / Salt Flats Potosí is a UNESCO-listed town with a tumultuous history as a silver mining centre. Once the most populated city in the world, it was also among one of the richest. Cerro Rico, the so-called Mountain of Silver, is actually still worked to this day, and looms over the town. Your journey continues to the isolated town of Uyuni, where you’ll gear up for a trip to the Salt Flats. Spend the next three days on 4WD excursions through Salar de Uyuni and the Atacama Desert. With mountains, active volcanoes, bright lagoons, geysers and moon-like terrain, it’s unlike anywhere else on earth. During your time here, you’ll stay in Jukil Lodge, a G for Good initiative seen by the community as a way to preserve their indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. (5B, L, 2D)

DAYS 10-13 San Pedro de Atacama / Salta Cross into Chile to the small oasis of San Pedro de Atacama, the gateway to one of the biggest and driest deserts on the planet. Here, take your pick from activities such as biking, exploring nearby ruins, horseback riding and visits to the Valley of the Moon. Make your way to Salta, situated in the Lerma Valley in northern Argentina, and famous for its delicious empanadas. On Day 13, pay an optional visit to Quebrada de las Conchas, sample local wines from the vineyards of Cafayate or experience vibrant celebrations at a peña folklore show. (3B, L)

DAYS 14-15 Buenos Aires Board a quick flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. Take an optional city tour and wander through the neighbourhoods of San Telmo, colourful La Boca and stylish Recoleta. Mingle with locals and get a feel for the spicy Argentinian flavours with some restaurant hopping before the tour comes to an end on Day 15.

Tour Code: GASBLB

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels (10 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), multi-share hostel (1 nt), basic hotel/community lodge (2 nts)

10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Local bus, plane, 4WD

146

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Buenos Aires Tango Experience (Half day)

Fr $80

Reverse your trip Buenos Aires to La Paz Adventure (15 days, Buenos Aires - La Paz) (GASBLB) Fr $1,899

La Paz B O L I V I A C H I L E

Potosí

Sucre

Uyuni San Pedro de Atacama Salta

A RG E N T I N A

Buenos Aires

PERU: ANCIENT CITIES & THE ANDES SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 14 DAYS

PRICE FR $1,899

ROUTE LIMA - CUZCO

LATIN AMERICA

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), Inca Trail CEO, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 14

02 09 16 23 30

06 11 13 20 27

04 09 11 18 25

01 13 08 20 22 27 29

Dec

05 10 12 19 24 26

Nov

Jul

07 12 14 21 28

Oct

Jun

03 10 17 24 31

Sep

May

05 09 01 03 12 23 08 05 19 15 12 22 19 29 26

Aug

Apr

, LY

Mar

LES APP

Feb

Jan

ILI

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2020:

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

NOTE: Alternative options to the Inca Trail are available, including Lares Trek & Cuzco Stay

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $179

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

G FOR GOOD

AREQUIPA

CUZCO

Immerse yourself in the local life of the Ccaccaccollo community during a homestay with a Quechua family.

Nicknamed the White City due to its baroque buildings carved from sillar (white volcanic rock).

Gateway to Machu Picchu, this high-flying city is just the place to acclimatise before the Inca Trail.

DAYS 1-3 Lima / Nazca With lovely Lima as your launch pad, head south on Day 2 to Nazca, where the mysterious Nazca Lines are etched into the desert landscape. Fertility symbols, astronomical calendars and even spaceship landing areas are just some of the explanations for their existence. In the evening, tuck into a Pachamanca meal - marinated meat cooked with hot stones - and board an overnight bus to Arequipa on Day 3. (D)

•G for Good visit to Ccaccaccollo Community and Women’s Weaving Cooperative •C caccaccollo Community homestay • Overnight Colca Canyon excursion • 4-day guided Inca Trail trek • Machu Picchu guided tour • Pachamanca-style dinner

DAYS 4-6 Arequipa / Colca Canyon Arrive into Arequipa, a colonial city nestled in the shadow of the El Misti Volcano. Wander around its historic centre and go on a foodie expedition, because this city can cook! Opt to visit the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a convent for Dominican nuns founded by a rich widow in 1580. This place is as fascinating as it is beautiful, and shouldn’t be missed. Spread your wings like the Colca Canyon’s resident condors and take an overnight trip to the canyon’s depths (almost twice as deep as the Grand Canyon). Soak in the hot springs, admire the pre-Inca terraces and spot alpacas, llamas and vicuñas. Board an overnight bus to Cuzco on Day 6. (2B)

DAYS 7-9 Cuzco / Ccaccaccollo Community / Urabamba / Ollantaytambo A medley of colonial and Inca architecture, Cuzco is a unique city filled with ornate cathedrals, cobbled streets and ancient temples. Grab some last-minute trekking supplies and sample some local cuisine. On Day 8, venture into the Sacred Valley to visit a G for Good Women’s Weaving Cooperative. This project enables local women to sell textiles and souvenirs to travellers, handmade using traditional weaving methods. Overnight with a local family and get your tongue around some Quechua words. The next morning, head to the quaint town of Ollantaytambo via the Urubamba River Valley, where historical sites and inquisitive alpacas await. (2B, L, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Flight Over the Nazca Lines Take to the skies for the best views of the Nazca Lines Fr $122 Arequipa City & Area Bus Tour Get to know the White City and its surrounds on a panoramic bus tour Fr $20

DAYS 10-14 Inca Trail to Machu Picchu / Cuzco Over the next four days, hike 43 kilometres along one of the world’s most famous trails. With your porters taking care of all the luggage and equipment, you can concentrate on the walk, the view and figuring out how the Incas did this with big stones on their backs. Arrive at Machu Picchu on Day 13. If your legs will carry you any further, visit the Inca Bridge before returning to Cuzco for some well-deserved downtime. Depart after breakfast on Day 14. You can choose to do the Lares Trek or Cuzco Stay option instead. Ask your Travel Expert for details. (5B, 3L, 3D)

Tour Code: GASPPS

P E R U

Lima Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo

Cuzco

Nazca Colca Canyon Arequipa

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels (7 nts), overnight bus (2 nts), homestay (1 nt), camping (3 nts)

9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

Local bus, train

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

147

AMAZON TO THE ANDES SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 12 DAYS

ROUTE LIMA - LIMA

LATIN AMERICA

PRICE FR $2,599

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

GROUP LEADER: Local representatives in Lima & Cuzco, Inca Trail CEO, Amazon guide GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

ILI

LES APP

, LY

NOTE: Alternative options to the Inca Trail are available, including Lares Trek & Cuzco Stay

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTS: Almost daily MY OWN ROOM : Fr $319

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

G FOR GOOD

PISCO SOURS

THE AMAZON

Grab lunch from the Parwa Community Restaurant, and support local farmers and social projects.

Made with grape brandy, lime juice, and egg white, this classic Peruvian cocktail is tart, tangy and sweet.

With an eco-friendly lodge as your base, spot wildlife on jungle walks and river cruises.

DAYS 1-3 Lima / Cuzco / Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Launching from Lima, this tour brings you the best of Peru, from the archaeological highlights and dramatic landscapes of the Andes to the raw beauty and wildlife of the Amazon. Arrive at any time on Day 1 and explore the capital’s vibrant districts before joining your group this evening. Head to Miraflores or Barranco for your first sip of pisco sour, Peru’s famous cocktail. The next morning, fly to the colonial city of Cuzco. Start steady with a cup of coca tea as you acclimatise to the altitude (a dizzying 3,400 metres). Foodies should also look into pre-booking the optional Cuzco cooking class before departure. On Day 3, head the Sacred Valley to see the Pisac Ruins and visit a G for Good Women’s Weaving Cooperative. Next, stop for lunch at the Parwa Community Restaurant. All the ingredients are sourced from local farmers and its revenue is invested back into the community’s social projects, so by eating here, you’ll be actively supporting local people. Finish the day in Ollantaytambo and prepare for the hike ahead. (2B, L)

DAYS 4-8 Inca Trail to Machu Picchu / Cuzco Starting at Km 82, you have four days and 43 kilometres of world-famous hiking stretching in front of you. The porters will speed ahead to set up camp, allowing you to take it slow, with plenty of time to check out Inca sites along the way. Refresh with delicious meals and coca tea before tackling high mountain passes and countless stone steps. On your last day, arrive at the Sun Gate to witness dawn breaking over the ruins of Machu Picchu. With free time to explore the intriguing (and slightly baffling) site, be sure to visit the Inca Bridge before returning to Cuzco. You can choose to do the Lares Trek or the Cuzco Stay option instead. Ask your Travel Expert for details. Enjoy a well-deserved rest or dig up some more energy for optional rafting or biking during your free time on Day 8. (5B, 3L, 3D)

• G for Good visits to Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Cooperative & Parwa Community Restaurant • Sacred Valley guided tour • Pottery-making demonstration • 4-day guided Inca Trail hike • Machu Picchu guided tour • Amazon Jungle stay with naturalistguided excursions

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Peru Panorama (15 days, Lima - Lima) (GAPPP) Absolute Peru (21 days, Lima - Lima) (GAPHPT)

Fr $3,149

Fr $3,799

DAYS 9-12 Amazon Jungle / Lima After a flight to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon Basin, continue by motorised boat to your exclusive eco-friendly lodge in the Tambopata National Reserve. The area is renowned for its biodiversity, with over 1,300 bird species, 200 mammal species, 90 types of frogs,1,200 types of butterfly and 10,000 species of plant. You won’t see them all, but your local guides will be able to help you spot plenty as you make your way around by boat and on foot. You’ll also learn about the extensive uses for medicinal plants and other forest resources, which are still used today in traditional techniques for building, fishing and hunting. Leave the jungle behind as you fly back to Lima for a final night out with your group. Your trip draws to a close on Day 12 and you are free to depart any time. (4B, 2L, 2D)

Tour Code: GAPAA

Lima

P E R U

Machu Picchu

Amazon Jungle

Ollantaytambo

Cuzco

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotel/guesthouses (6 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts)

11 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners

Public bus, plane, train, boat, canoe

148

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

INCA PANORAMA PRICE FR $1,925

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE LIMA - CUZCO

DURATION 11 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver,

local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 30

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DEPARTS: Selected Tuesdays MY OWN ROOM: Fr $2,335

DAYS 1-2 Lima / Arequipa

DAYS 6-7 Cuzco / Ollantaytambo

Lima’s lavishly decorated churches, stately museums and vibrant neighbourhoods will keep you busy on Day 1. Find your feet with a city tour, then search out some ceviche (raw fish, chilli peppers and onions marinated in lime juice). On Day 2, fly to the so-called White City of Arequipa and take in its history on a walking tour. (B, D)

On the way to Cuzco, the heart of the once-mighty Inca Empire, stop at the Raqchi Ruins to see the Temple of Wiracocha. Take a walking tour, then visit San Pedro Market, filled with all manner of souvenirs and essential llama keyrings. Your next stop is the Sacred Valley where you’ll visit a llama farm and see the Pisac Ruins. (2B)

DAYS 3-5 Colca Canyon / Puno

DAYS 8-11 Aguas Calientes / Cuzco

Travel through the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve en route to the Colca Canyon, a famous trekking destination and the home of the Andean condor. Try to catch a glimpse of these giant birds - they boast a threemetre wingspan - before travelling to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Next day, take to the water and meet the residents of the Taquile and Uros Islands. (3B, L, D)

After a night in Ollantaytambo, take the train to Aguas Calientes, the base for your Machu Picchu trip on Day 10. For a supplement, opt to walk part of the Inca Trail (ask your Travel Expert for details). Return to Cuzco where your trip ends on Day 11. (4B, D)

B R A Z I L

P E R U

Lima

Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes

Cuzco

Tour Code: COLICU/COLICUT

Ollantaytambo / Sacred Valley

Colca Canyon Arequipa

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (10 nts)

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

Private air con vehicle, plane, train, minibus

EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU PRICE FR $1,899

DURATION 8 DAYS

Puno / Lake Titicaca

TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE LIMA - LIMA

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visits to Parque de la Papa & Parwa Community Restaurant, traditional Andean experience, 2-day guided Sacred Valley tour, Machu Picchu guided tour, pachamanca-style dinner, Cuzco Planetarium visit DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays and Sundays MY OWN ROOM: Fr $599

DAYS 1-2 Lima / Sacred Valley Arrive in Lima at any time and take an included transfer to your hotel. On Day 2, board an early flight to Cuzco then head to the scenic Sacred Valley. Explore the pre-Inca salt pans of Las Salineras and tour the Maras and Moray ruins. That evening, enjoy a traditional pachamanca-style meal of local specialities. (B, D)

DAY 3 Sacred Valley Continue exploring the region with a visit to the Parque de la Papa, a G for Good experience exclusive to National Geographic Journeys travellers. Visit the community with a guide and learn about potato cultivation, Andean culture and traditional weaving. After, explore the Ollantaytambo Ruins and dine at the G for Good Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosqo. (2B, L)

DAYS 4-5 Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu / Cuzco Transfer to Ollantaytambo station and board the train to Aguas Calientes. On Day 5, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu and opt to hike to the Inca Bridge before returning to Cuzco by train. Spend the next day exploring museums, rafting, horse riding or mountain biking. That evening, admire the stars at the Cuzco Planetarium. Learn about the southern sky, contemporary astronomy and the Inca’s relationship with the cosmos. (2B)

Lima

P E R U

DAYS 7-8 Lima Fly back to Lima and spend the afternoon in Peru’s capital. Depart at any time the next day. (2B)

Tour Code: GASPENG

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Private van, train, plane

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley Cuzco

149

LATIN AMERICA

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: City tours in Lima, Arequipa & Cuzco, triciclo ride, Lake Titicaca boat trip, Machu Picchu guided tour, visits to Salinas, Aguada Blanca National Reserve, Cruz del Condor, Maca, Taquile, Uros, Pukara, Sicuani, Temple of Wiracocha, Raqchi Ruins, San Blas Koricancha, San Pedro Market, a llama farm, Sacred Valley, Pisac Ruins & Pisac market

k e Tr

LATIN AMERICA

u r e P Biking (4-5 hours)

SANTA TERESA

AGUAS CALIENTES KM 111

MACHU PICCHU 2450m

SANTA MARIA

KM 88 PHUYUPATAMARKA WINAYWAYNA

DEAD WOMAN’S PASS

LARES HOT SPRINGS

SACSALLAULLY PASS AURORAY LAGOON

KM 82

INTI PUNKU (SUN GATE) LUCMABAMBA SAHUAYACO LA PLAYA

Continue by train to Aguas Calientes & Machu Picchu

PACAYMAYO KM 104

LARES

HUACAWASI TAMBOWAYLLA

MANTANAY OLLANTAYTAMBO

LLACTAPATA SAYACMARCA YANKACHIMPA EL PASO 3760m WAYLLABAMBA 4600m RUNKURAQAY PASS CHAULLAY HUARACMACHY 3760m 2920m 3750m

YANAHUARA

LLUSCAMAYO

CHOQUEQUIRAO

COLLPAPAMPA PLAYA ROSALINA

CHIQUISKA

CAPULLYOC PASS

SORAYPAMPA 3750m

CACHORA

For when you’ve left it too late to get a permit for the Inca Trail (or if you want to get away from the crowds and off the beaten track): Lares Trek: (3 days) (see page 152) Salkantay Trek: (3 days) (see page 153) On all G Adventures tours that include the Inca Trail, you can also opt to stay in Cuzco and visit Machu Picchu by train if you’re not quite up for trekking!

150

Inca Trail Camping Site Lares Trek Archaeological Site Salkantay Trek Railway Line Jungle Trail Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trekking

CUZCO

MOLLEPATA

The Inca Trail - the wishlist favourite and the most popular path to Machu Picchu. Cover 43 kilometres over four days and climb to a maximum height of 4,200 metres on a trail that combines jawdropping mountain scenery, cloud forest and jungle, bags of wildlife and Inca ruins aplenty. Oh... and quite a lot of steps. Stop dreaming and book your ticket to one of the best wonders of the world.

OTHER TRAILS

PISAC

THE INCA EXPERTS

NEED TO KNOWS

BEST INCA TRAIL TOUR OPERATOR

WILL THE ALTITUDE AFFECT ME?

G Adventures is the single largest tour operator on the Inca Trail, helping well over 10,000 travellers per year. Look out for this logo on our Machu Picchu tours and get top class service!

EXPERT LOCAL STAFF All tours are led by skilled staff recruited from local communities. All guides, porters, support staff and cooks work under the region’s best employment conditions and are fairly compensated for their efforts.

FRIENDS OF THE ENVIRONMENT All treks help to promote environmental sustainability throughout. Visit the G for Good Women’s Weaving Project pre-trek, then make use of biodegradable soap and portable toilets on the Inca Trail. VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

It’s impossible to predict who will fall to altitude sickness. On all G Adventures Inca Trail tours and other treks, you’ll get at least two days to acclimatise, so you’ll be in the best shape possible.

BOOK EARLY The Peruvian government has strict regulations on trail permits, so please book early - ideally six months in advance. The trail is closed every February for repairs, so you’ll walk the Lares Trail instead.

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE? You’ll need to have a moderate level of fitness (did we mention the steps?). However, skilled porters will carry your tent and sleeping bag for you throughout the trek. All you’ll need to carry is a day pack!

THE INCA TRAIL SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 7 DAYS

PRICE FR $1,079

ROUTE CUZCO - CUZCO

GE 10

LATIN AMERICA

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB T

LES APP

, LY

HIGHLIGHTS

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Active AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Local representative in Cuzco, specialist CEO on Inca Trail trek GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 DEPARTS: Almost daily

G FOR GOOD

OLLANTAYTAMBO

MACHU PICCHU

Revenue generated from the Parwa Community Restaurant is invested back into local social programmes.

Nestled in the Sacred Valley, this quaint town has been continuously inhabited since the 13th century.

Your spirits (and Insta likes) will be at an all time high as you watch the sun rise over this ancient city.

NOTE: Alternative options to the Inca Trail are available, including Lares Trek & Cuzco Stay MY OWN ROOM : Fr $139

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

DAYS 1-2 Cuzco / Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo At 3,399 metres above sea level, the first thing you’ll probably notice when stepping off the plane in Cuzco is the altitude. Luckily, you’ll have a couple of nights to acclimatise before you start hiking. Arrive at any time on Day 1 and meet your fellow trekkers. The next day, take a guided tour of the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo. Peppered with ruins, this lush agricultural region was an important food source for the Incas. Visit a G for Good Women’s Weaving Cooperative where you can pick up some handmade textiles, then tuck into lunch at the Parwa Community Restaurant. All the ingredients for this restaurant are bought directly from the local farmers, and its revenue is invested back into the community’s social programmes. Lined with colonial houses and original Inca walls, Ollantaytambo’s cobbled streets were made for exploring. Want to save your energy? Grab a seat at one of the cafés in the main square for a spot of people watching, or visit a Chicheria (traditional corn beer bar). (B, L)

DAYS 3-6 Inca Trail

• G for Good visits to Ccaccaccollo Community and Women’s Weaving Co-op & Parwa Community Restaurant • Sacred Valley guided tour • Pottery-making demonstration • 4-day Inca Trail trek • Machu Picchu guided tour

The world-famous Inca Trail is a four-day hike that’s physically challenging but Inca-redibly rewarding. With a maximum elevation of 4,198 metres and 43 kilometres in length, you’ll take in mountain passes, cloud forests and Inca constructions, leaving you in awe of the ancient civilisation. Starting at Km 82, ease in with a straightforward hike, following meandering streams. The second day climbs the steep path to Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point on the trek. Enjoy views of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba the next day before reaching the archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca (the Town Above the Clouds). You’ll either camp here or 90 minutes further along, close to the terraced ruins of Wiñay Wayna. Sturdy walking boots and woolly alpaca hats may not be the height of fashion at home, but here they’re standard issue - it can get quite chilly at night and you should be prepared for the odd shower along the way. A team of local porters will make sure you’re fed and watered, and camp is set up each evening. (4B, 3L, 3D)

DAY 7 Machu Picchu / Cuzco The last morning brings one of the trip’s most iconic moments: the final climb up to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. From here, catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu through the mist. Enveloped in myth and numerous speculations about its origins, the UNESCO-listed site calls for a dramatic entrance. After getting your bearings, there’s time to explore the ancient citadel further, and even to visit the Inca Bridge before you catch the train back to Cuzco. Depart at any time on Day 7, or stick around for a few more days to see the surrounding area. (B)

Tour Code: GASPIT

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (3 nts), camping (3 nts)

6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Private vehicle, train

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo

Cuzco

P E R U

151

THE LARES TREK PRICE FR $1,079

TRIP STYLE: Active AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE CUZCO - CUZCO

DURATION 7 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Local representative in Cuzco, specialist CEO on Lares trek

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visits to Ccaccaccollo Community and Women’s Weaving Cooperative & Parwa Community Restaurant, G for Good Cuncani Community campsite stay, Sacred Valley guided tour, pottery-making demonstration, 3-day guided Lares trek, Machu Picchu guided tour

E PA

ELIGIB T

DEPARTS: Almost daily

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Cuzco / Ollantaytambo

DAYS 3-7 Lares Trek / Aguas Calientes / Cuzco

Cuzco is South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city and the gateway to Machu Picchu. Get here early on Day 1 and fit in some exploring before meeting the rest of your group this evening. The next day, enjoy a guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Visit a G for Good Women’s Weaving Cooperative and a pottery-making community, then stop for lunch at the Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. All ingredients here are sourced from local farmers. After, work off your food baby with an optional hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses for views over the ruins. If hiking’s not on the cards for you today, there’s plenty to do in town. Navigate the narrow, cobblestone streets to the main square, browse a nearby artisan market or visit a Chicheria (corn beer bar). (B, L)

It’s time for your trek! Leaving Lares town, walk at a leisurely pace to your first campsite in Cuncani. The next morning, hike from the foothills of Sicllaccasa Mountain to its high pass (4,750 metres) for views of the snowcapped Chicón Mountain and surrounding lagoons. After a rest, continue downhill to your next campsite. On the final day of the trek, keep an eye out for llamas and meet friendly Quechua people before returning by van to Ollantaytambo. Continue to Aguas Calientes for a wellearned rest. Rise early on Day 6 to catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu, and enjoy a guided tour of the ruins. Opt to walk up to the Sun Gate, then return to Aguas Calientes to catch the train back to Cuzco where the tour ends on Day 7. (5B, 3L, 2D)

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (4 nts), camping (2 nts)

6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners

Train, private van

THE INCA JOURNEY PRICE FR $2,499

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $179

Ollantaytambo Lares Trek Lares Town

Machu Picchu / Augas Calientes

Cuzco P E R U

Tour Code: GASPLT

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 10 DAYS

ROUTE LIMA - LIMA

GROUP LEADER: Local representatives in Cuzco & Lima, specialist guide for Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and the Amazon GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visits to Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Cooperative & Parwa Community Restaurant, Sacred Valley guided tour, pottery-making demo, Machu Picchu guided tour, 3-day Amazon Jungle stay with naturalist-guided excursions

ILI

DEPARTS: Selected Thursdays and Sundays

LATIN AMERICA

GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Lima / Cusco / Sacred Valley

DAYS 7-8 Amazon Jungle

Land in Lima and hop on the nearest excuse to get out and sip your first pisco sour. Fly to Cuzco on Day 2, where you’ll have free time before touring the Sacred Valley. Visit a G for Good Women’s Weaving Co-op and have lunch at the Parwa Community Restaurant. (2B, L)

Your home for the next two nights is an eco-friendly lodge nestled deep in the Amazon Rainforest. Accompanied by an expert guide, go on a night walk in search of nocturnal critters like snakes, tarantulas, owls and tree frogs. Wake up early the next morning to catch the jungle at its liveliest (and coolest). Walk slowly through the forest, looking out for wildlife, then go on a caiman-spotting cruise after dinner. (2B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 4-6 Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu / Cusco Take a train to Aguas Calientes, where you can soak in hot springs or pick up some souvenirs in the market. Day 5 and it’s time to discover the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Take it all in on a guided tour, then return to Cuzco for free time. Optional activities include white water rafting, horse riding and mountain biking. (3B)

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $399

DAYS 9-10 Lima Fly back to Lima for one last night out with your group. Your tour ends on Day 10, but if you’re sticking around, check out the bohemian Barranco District. (2B)

Tour Code: GASPIJ

Lima

P E R U

Machu Picchu

Puerto Maldonado Sacred Valley Cuzco

152

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts)

9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Plane, private van, train, boat, canoe

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

INCA DISCOVERY PRICE FR $1,329

TRIP STYLE: Active AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE LIMA - CUZCO

DURATION 8 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Local representatives in Cuzco & Lima, specialist CEO on Inca Trail GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good visits to Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Cooperative & Parwa Community Restaurant, Sacred Valley guided tour, pottery-making demonstration, 4-day Inca Trail trek, Machu Picchu guided tour

GE 10

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SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Lima / Cuzco

DAYS 4-6 Inca Trail

Land in Lima at any time on Day 1 and explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods. After a flight to Cuzco, situated at 3,400 metres, acclimatise with a walk around town, visit one of the many museums or sip on a coca tea overlooking the Plaza de Armas. You’ll have probably worked up an appetite after sightseeing, so why not try some authentic Peruvian food like roasted guinea pig? If time allows, go on a biking or white water rafting trip. (B)

Today marks the start of the four-day Inca Trail trek. Climb countless stone steps, pass through cloud forest and cross three high passes with the most challenging Dead Woman’s Pass - being 4,198 metres. (3B, 3L, 3D)

DAY 3 Ollantaytambo On Day 3, enjoy a guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Here, you’ll see ancient ruins, have lunch at the Parwa Community Restaurant, watch a pottery-making demo and visit a G for Good Women’s Weaving Cooperative for souvenir shopping. Overnight in Ollantaytambo. (B, L)

NOTE: Alternative options to the Inca Trail are available, including Lares Trek & Cuzco Stay MY OWN ROOM: Fr $219

DAYS 7-8 Machu Picchu / Cuzco

The final day begins with a pre-dawn hike to the Sun Gate. Watching the sun rise over Machu Picchu is a magical experience and certainly one for the bucket list! Tour the UNESCO-listed site, then take the bus to Aguas Calientes and return to Cuzco for a well-earned shower. You can choose to do the Lares Trek or Cuzco Stay option instead. Ask your Travel Expert for details. (2B)

P E R U

Ollantaytambo

Lima

Machu Picchu

Tour Code: GAPID

Cuzco

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (4 nts), camping (3 nts)

7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Plane, train, private van

SALKANTAY TREK & MACHU PICCHU PRICE FR $749

DURATION 5 DAYS

Classic Peru: Lima to Cuzco 12 days (GAPPC)

Fr $2,149

TRIP STYLE: Active AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE CUZCO - CUZCO

GROUP LEADER: Local representative in Cuzco, specialist CEO on Salkantay trek GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 6 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: 3-day Salkantay trek, Machu Picchu guided tour

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

04 11 13 18 25

01 20 08 27 15 22 29

LES APP

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SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Dec

Jun

01 06 13 15 20

Apr

02 09 16 18 30

Mar

05 07 19 21 26

Feb

05 02 01 12 03 07 19 16 15 14 10 09 29 19 12 14 26 24 23 28 31 28

Jan GE 10

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May

DEPARTURES 2020:

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

DAY 1 Cuzco

DAY 5 Machu Picchu / Cuzco

Arrive into Cuzco at any time on Day 1 and get acclimatised to the altitude with a spot of sightseeing. Shop for souvenirs at the Centro Artesanal market, tuck into some traditional food or visit the Museo Inka. Make sure you take some time out to see the city’s ancient Inca sites of Sacsayhuamán, Moray and Coricancha.

Set your alarms early today as the best time to see the Lost City of the Incas is in the early morning light. Catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu and discover the UNESCO-listed site at a leisurely pace. After a guided tour, you’ll have plenty of free time to do your own exploring. Built in the 15th century, this ancient citadel is renowned for its huge, impressively aligned stone blocks that fit together without mortar. There’s a good reason why it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World - you’ll be left scratching your head, wondering how it became perched atop a mountain ridge in the Andes and what purpose it served. Return to Cuzco in the evening where the tour ends on arrival. (B)

DAYS 2-4 Salkantay Trek / Aguas Calientes It’s trek time! Transfer to the start of the trail and begin your Salkantay adventure. Incredible views and Incan ruins fill three days, as the hike takes in the snowy peaks of Salkantay, Humantay and Ausangate. You’ll traverse several passes, the highest point reaching 4,600 metres. Catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu at Llactapata, then take the train to Aguas Calientes. (3B, 3L, 2D)

Tour Code: GASPST

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (2 nts), camping (2 nts)

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Private van, train

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $99

Machu Picchu Soraypampa

Aguas Calientes

Cuzco

P E R U

153

LATIN AMERICA

DEPARTS: Almost daily

CUZCO & MACHU PICCHU MAC HU DO ABO UT TRE KKI NG

LATIN AMERICA

Machu Picchu is only slightly older than the USA, but it’s several worlds away from anything you’ll find there. Shrouded in speculation around its seemingly impossible origin, it might be the only place on earth where you’d give the alien landing theory some serious thought (but still, no). Bookend your visit with stays in nearby Cuzco where the streets are charming, the massages are cheap and where the guinea pigs come with a leafy side salad.

- TOP SELLER SHOESTRING

MILHOUSE CUZCO

$16 428

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

CLASS ACT

HILTON GARDEN INN CUZCO

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

$135 $68

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Just a few minutes on foot from the main square.

LOCATION: This hotel is located less than one kilometre from Plaza

Conveniently close to the city’s bars and restaurants.

de Armas, with a prime hillside spot boasting awesome views.

VIBE: Housed in a restored monastery with a boutique-esque

VIBE: Historic on the outside (this is Cuzco after all), modern,

atmosphere and two courtyards. Get social at the rooftop bar!

comfy and splashes of snazzy on the inside.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms • Rooftop bar •

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms and suites • In-room safe • Air con

Outdoor terrace • 2 courtyards with hammocks • Cinema • Nightclub • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception • Free Wi-Fi in public areas

• Flatscreen TV • Bar • Restaurant • Gym • Lift • Luggage storage • Laundry (at extra cost) • 24-hour reception

CUZMIL

CUZTH1

STAY 5 PAY 4: 01JAN20 - 31DEC20

MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN ADVENTURE

$516

FULL DAY

Make an express visit from Cuzco to Machu Picchu and back in one day as you travel along the scenic Peru Railway to Aguas Calientes by executive-class train. Views of the Urubamba River Valley rush by before you explore the Inca citadel with your knowledgeable, local guide and retrace the civilisation’s footsteps. Don’t just pass through colourful Aguas Calientes, take a wander in your free time! INCLUSIONS

$585

2 DAYS

Hop into a van and journey from Cuzco to the beautiful town of Ollantaytambo, then catch a train to Aguas Calientes and explore the nooks and crannies of this mountain town. It’s a very early start on Day 2, but it ensures plenty of time to visit Machu Picchu’s mindboggling site on a two-hour guided tour. Explore the hidden corners of this ancient city on your own before returning to Cuzco. INCLUSIONS

Departs: Daily (Cuzco-Cuzco) Meals: 1 lunch Transport: Bus, train, private vehicle Group Leader: English/Spanish-speaking guide during tour only Includes: Intro briefing, entry fee to Machu Picchu Tour Code: BECUZMPT

154

MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN OVERNIGHT

Departs: Daily (Cuzco-Cuzco) Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt) Transport: Bus, train, van Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch Includes: Briefing, entry fee to Machu Picchu, hotel pick-up Tour Code: BECUZMAC

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

MACHU PICCHU JUNGLE TREK: BIKING, ZIPLINE & RAFTING

AGE GROUP: All ages GROUP LEADER: English-speaking guide

PRICE FR $686

DURATION 4 DAYS

ROUTE CUZCO - CUZCO

GROUP SIZE: Max 15 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: White water rafting, trek along the railway to Aguas Calientes, visit Machu Picchu with a guide, tourist train from Aguas Calientes ACCOMMODATION: Basic guesthouse (2 nts),

3* hotel (1 nt)

DEPARTS: Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays NOTE: Other tour durations are available.

Crank the classic trek to Machu Picchu up a notch with thrill-seeker activities along the way. Soar downhill on exhilarating bike rides and float down river by white water rafting between hikes. Fragrant fruit plantations guide the way towards Santa Maria as you stop by the Huamanmarca archaeological site on the way. If you’re feeling daring, ride South America’s highest zipline before one last hike to Aguas Calientes. Machu Picchu greets you in the morning, where a walking tour shows you around before returning to Cuzco. Tour Code: BECUZMPJ

THE SACRED VALLEY AND MACHU PICCHU PRICE FR $500

DURATION 2 DAYS

ROUTE CUZCO - CUZCO

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: English-speaking tour guide GROUP SIZE: Min 1 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visits to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo ACCOMMODATION: Hostel (1 nt) MEALS: 1 lunch DEPARTS: Daily

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

The Sacred Valley - picture colourful artisan markets, ceramics and a diverse array of archaeological Incan ruins. The valley is a succession of picturesque towns, Incan platforms, many an archaeological remain and roomy plains where the giant white corn of the Incas still grows. See it for yourself on Day 1 before waking up at the crack of dawn the next morning to catch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Once you’ve Machu Picchu-ed yourself out, head back to Cuzco via Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo. Tour Code: BECUZSAV

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TREK PRICE FR $264

DURATION 2 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Bilingual English-speaking

ROUTE CUZCO - CUZCO

tour guide GROUP SIZE: Min 2, Max 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visits to Rainbow Mountain, Ausangate Glacier, trekking through local villages and impressive scenery ACCOMMODATION:

Camping (1 nt)

MEALS: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner DEPARTS: Daily SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

It’s not all about Machu Picchu around these parts, y’know. The Rainbow Mountain is a spectacle all by itself, a multicoloured mountain and one of Peru’s ancient sacred sites. This challenging two-day trek takes you past red mountains and the Ausangate Glacier. This super colourful mountain range is now gaining popularity due to climate change as it was previously covered in snow and ice. We love the views at the end of Day 2’s twohour uphill hike. With time to explore, get that camera ready!

NOTE: This hike is demanding and it is recommended that travellers are in good physical condition.

Tour Code: BECUZARM

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

155

LATIN AMERICA

MEALS: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinner SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

LATIN AMERICA

Galápagos Islands SANTIAGO

BARTOLOMÉ

Home to first-class snorkelling, the bays and unusual land formations that once gave shelter to pirates are now home to a dazzling array of birds and marine life. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: See the waved albatross of Española ail a letter and take one home from M Post Office Bay on Floréana WEST ISLANDS - ISABELA & FERNANDINA

The largest and youngest of the islands, Isabela and Fernandina should be ports of call for anyone looking for the best wildlife. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: ike to the caldera of Sierra Negra H (1,124m), a classic shield volcano Visit massive colonies of marine iguanas Relax in laid-back Puerto Villamil

FREE FLIGHTS 156

Quito

BALTRA

RÁBIDA

SOUTH ISLANDS - FLORÉANA & ESPAÑOLA

NORTH ISLAND

CENTRAL ISLANDS

FERNANDINA

Say hello to swimming iguanas, flashy flamingos, veggie sharks and dancing boobies (birds, FYI). Travel in comfort on a sailing trip or choose a landbased tour. All G Adventures’ Galápagos tours include return flights from mainland Ecuador.

GENOVESA

WEST ISLANDS

SANTA CRUZ

ISABELA

SOUTH PLAZA

EAST ISLAND

SANTA FÉ SAN CRISTÓBAL

PACIFIC OCEAN CENTRAL ISLANDS - SANTIAGO, RÁBIDA, BARTOLOMÉ, BALTRA, SANTA CRUZ, SOUTH PLAZA & SANTA FÉ

Flying into the main airport on Baltra, the Central Islands may well be your first taste of the Galápagos. Though relatively close to each other, these small islands have developed in isolation and are among the best spots to witness the full scope of the archipelago's incredible natural diversity. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: ee tortoises in the wild in the lush, S green highlands on bustling Santa Cruz Visit the fascinating Charles Darwin Research Station Explore Puerto Ayora, the main town, with its bustling fish market Views of Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé Hidden snorkelling spots and white sand beaches on Santiago Swim with playful sea lions in the waters off North Seymour Multi-coloured Rábida offers red cliffs, pink flamingos and blue-footed boobies

FLORÉANA

SOUTH ISLANDS

ESPAÑOLA

EAST ISLAND - SAN CRISTÓBAL

One of the oldest islands, San Cristóbal's eroded volcanic peaks are tailor-made for hiking and mountain biking. Divers and snorkellers will find more than enough to keep them entertained below the surface. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: Sail through the gap at Kicker Rock and snorkel with hammerhead sharks Chill with the sea lions on the white sand beaches of Cerro Brujo NORTH ISLAND - GENOVESA

Little more than a rock, tiny Genovesa has an amazing concentration of birds and a rich variety of aquatic life under the waves. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: Look for sea turtles and reef sharks while snorkelling a sunken volcanic crater Seabird colonies and top-notch views on the hiking trail to El Barranco Red-footed boobies and frigate birds

Combine any G Adventures tour of Peru (excl. independent tours) with a Galápagos trip and get the one-way flight between Lima and Quito on us! VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

SOUTH & CENTRAL ISLANDS FR $2,999

NORTH, CENTRAL & SOUTH ISLANDS FR $4,349

WEST, CENTRAL & EAST ISLANDS FR $4,349

ACCOMMODATION : Hotel

(3 nts), twin-share (bunks) cabins onboard Estrella (3 nts)

(2 nts), twin-share (bunks) cabins onboard Estrella (4 nts)

(2 nts), twin-share (bunks) cabins onboard Estrella (7 nts)

HIGHLIGHTS: Three-night cruise • Tortuga Bay hike & kayak • Santa Cruz highlands • Charles Darwin Research Station • Volcanic hike (Bartolomé) • Red-footed boobies (Genovesa)

HIGHLIGHTS: Four-night cruise • Isla Lobos, Kicker Rock, Corona del Diablo and Gardner Bay snorkelling • Waved albatross (Apr-Nov, Española) • Post Office Bay (Floréana)

HIGHLIGHTS: Seven-night

HIGHLIGHTS: Seven-night cruise • Giant tortoises (Santa Cruz) • Marine iguana colony (Fernandina) • Penguins (Isabela) • Sierra Negra hike • Charles Darwin Research Station • Tortuga Bay hike

cruise • Six snorkelling destinations • Post Office Bay • Frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies (North Seymour) • Volcanic hike (Bartolomé) • Redfooted boobies • Giant tortoises

A BOA RD E ST REL LA D E L M A R SERVICE LEVEL Standard.

CAPACITY 16 passengers.

CABINS 8 double cabins with private bathrooms and air con. All cabins feature upper and lower berths and are located on the upper or lower deck.

MEALS All meals onboard are included, and breakfast on land.

TRANSPORT Plane, motorised yacht (Estrella), van, panga, private bus.

CREW 7 crew plus a bilingual local naturalist guide certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority, local rep in Quito.

BOAT LAYOUT Two-level wraparound deck with outdoor bar and seating area. Interior dining room and lounge with TV/DVD player for daily briefings.

AMENITIES Snorkelling equipment included. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included each day with freshlyprepared Ecuadorian and international cuisine.

e g a y Vo s o g a p á l a G

PERU, BOLIVIA, LATIN ECUADOR AMERICA& COLOMBIA

LAND & SEA: NORTH & CENTRAL ISLANDS FR $2,749

GALÁPAGOS ADVENTURE: SNORKELLING & SEA LIONS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE QUITO - QUITO

- WE LOVE -

NEED TO KNOWS

ILI

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ELIGIB

GE 10

LATIN AMERICA

PRICE FR $2,049

LES APP

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AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Certified naturalist guide in the Galápagos, local rep in Quito GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

ECOLOGICAL RESERVES

SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO

QUITO

Visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre where, although they are slow, they sure are busy.

Sierra is one of the largest volcanoes in the Galápagos Islands and a beaut of a caldera.

More than just a rest stop to the islands, this town is only 16km from the active Pichincha Volcano!

DAYS 1-2 Quito / San Cristóbal Island Arrive in Quito (well, officially San Francisco de Quito if we’re being pedantic guys) at any time for your welcome meeting and get the lowdown on what lies ahead. Fun fact: Ecuador’s cultural capital was the first city in the world to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The next day, you hop on a flight to the Galápagos Islands. Head to the Interpretation Centre that afternoon to learn about the area’s natural history, discover the trails surrounding the centre and choose to go snorkelling at nearby Las Tijeretas. (B)

DAYS 3-4 San Cristóbal Island / Isabela Island San Cristóbal Island is your very own stomping ground, so opt to snorkel at Kicker Rock, visit Playa Mann or head to La Lobería. La Lobería is totally overrun with sea lions, so you have plenty of opportunities to spot these friendly residents. The next day, board a speedboat and venture on to Isabela Island, keeping your eyes wide open for wildlife en route. The seahorse-shaped Isabela Island, at 100 kilometres long, is the largest in the Galápagos. That evening, you eat at a G for Good community restaurant to help local tourism before travelling on to Isabela. (L, D)

• Snorkel with sea lions • Island hop by public speedboat • Camp in the Isabella Highlands • Visit Charles Darwin Research Station • Hike to Sierra Negra volcano

Quito

DAYS 7-9 Santa Cruz Island / Quito Transfer to Santa Cruz and choose to visit the highlands, hike out to the spectacular Tortuga Bay or discover the incredible Las Grietas lagoon - the choice is yours! Las Grietas literally means ‘crevasses’, so you’ll find this spot is the perfect place to take a cool and shady dip. That evening, you may well find yourself watching a volleyball match in the evening (a popular local pastime) before the trip ends on Day 9. (2B)

EC UA D O R

Tour Code: GASEQC

it o Qu

Santa Cruz San Cristóbal

Isabela

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Plane, speedboat, van, truck, public bus

158

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Mar 21

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

Five of Isabela Island’s six volcanoes are still considered active and a full-day island tour takes you hiking up to the summit of Sierra Negra to inspect the world’s second-largest crater. Trust us, the views are pretty spectacular up top. Set up camp in the foothills of the volcano, around a 15-minute drive from Puerto Villamil. During your stay, opt to visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre and the Flamingo Lagoon (where they all come to feed at dusk) and relax on the beach alongside huge marine iguana colonies. Transfer back to Santa Cruz Island and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. The centre carries out essential scientific research in ensuring the conservation of the Galápagos archipelago. Next, you can blow off steam and enjoy a night out in the town of Puerto Ayora. (2B, D)

Multi-share hostel (4 nts), camping (2 nts), hotels (2 nts)

Feb 21

04 01 06 04 02 06 04 08 04 03 07 05 02 06 06 06 08 14 10 11 12 06 14 12 09 13 11 04 13 13 11 15 16 13 16 15 10 17 14 17 16 19 08 20 20 18 21 20 18 18 20 13 22 18 24 21 21 09 27 27 24 24 23 24 23 27 18 29 21 26 27 25 16 27 29 28 27 24 29 20 26 31 28 23 30 25 25 30 30 27 31

DAYS 5-6 Isabela Island / Santa Cruz Island

Jan 21

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Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Floréana

GALÁPAGOS MULTISPORT WITH QUITO PRICE FR $2,999

ROUTE QUITO - QUITO

DURATION 10 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Active AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Certified naturalist guide (Galápagos), local rep (Quito) GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 10 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Floreana Community Restaurant & Guesthouse, highlands excursion, kayaking, snorkelling, biking, volcano hike, visits to Charles Darwin Research Station and Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $699

ILI

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LATIN AMERICA

DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays

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SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Quito / Santa Cruz

DAYS 6-7 Floréana Island / Isabela Island

Arrive into Quito at any time and fly to Santa Cruz on Day 2. This island is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, which works to maintain conservation efforts in the Galápagos. The highlands beckon you to spy giant tortoises in their natural habitat, kayak the Itabaca Canal and don a snorkel to see the diverse underwater life first hand. (2B, 2L)

Next up, Isabela! Head to Las Tintoreras, otherwise known as Shark Alley, for a kayak excursion and snorkel to observe white-tip reef sharks, manta rays and an array of bird life. See the world’s second-largest crater at the Sierra Negra Volcano, stopping at the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre on the way back. (2B, 2L)

DAYS 4-5 Santa Cruz / Floréana Island You’ve got a free morning in Santa Cruz before travelling by boat to Floréana Island. Get settled into your G for Good-supported community guesthouse, then snorkel off Black Beach. This is albatross territory so keep an eye out. Head to the highlands for tales of pirates and whalers before walking back to Lobería beach. (2B, L, 2D)

Quito ECUA D O R

DAYS 8-10 Isabela Island / Santa Cruz / Quito With a free day on Isabela, the island is your oyster before spending an evening in Puerto Ayora. Here, you might catch a local volleyball game in the town square. Fly back to Quito on Day 9 for a final night on the town before leaving next morning. (3B)

Puerto Isabela Ayora

Tour Code: GASEGL

Santa Cruz

Highlands

G A L Á PAG O S I S L A N D S

Floréana

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts), guesthouses (2 nts)

9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners

Plane, speedboat, van, truck, public buses, Panga boat

INLAND & AMAZON PRICE FR $1,629

Ecuador Multisport 9 days (GASEEM)

Fr $1,099

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE QUITO - QUITO

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Shandia biking & community experience, Amazon stay, Otavalo Market & Papallacta Hot Springs visit

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SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-4 Quito / Baños / Tena

DAYS 7-8 Papallacta / Quito / Otavalo

Journey to Baños’ hot springs for a host of outdoor activities. Opt to go hiking, ziplining and canyoning if you’re craving an adrenalin kick. Or, simply choose to soak in the local hot springs. Day 4, leave the mountains behind and enter the Amazon Rainforest. Bed down for two nights in rustic jungle huts in a local Quichua community and explore the area on nature walks. (B, L, D)

Wake up to another go in the hot springs before heading back to Quito. Peruse the largest handicraft market in South America - Otavalo. It’s completely bursting with colourful local handicrafts. Villagers from the surrounding countryside come to this market each week. (2B)

DAYS 5-6 Tena / Amazon Jungle / Papallacta A full day in the Amazon is for learning about local life in the jungle, venturing on walks with a local shaman. Opt to go canoeing or to brave the rapids on a white water rafting trip. Then, you’re on to Papallacta for a soak in the natural mineral hot pools and a G for Good Shandia biking and community experience. (2B, L, D)

DAYS 9-14 Cotopaxi / Alausí / Cuenca / Quito It’s Cotopaxi next for mountain bike trails, lagoon visits and a night in a mountain lodge. All aboard a train bound for Devil’s Nose, a daring railway built high in the Andes. Tick off the last of the colonial sights on your free day in enchanting Cuenca. Fly back to Quito on Day 13 before your tour wraps up the following day. (6B)

Tour Code: GASEIA

Dec

Nov

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Apr

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GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

11 08 14 11 02 06 04 08 12 10 07 12 25 29 21 16 13 18 15 19 17 21 19 30 27 25 22 26 31 28

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $619

Otavalo

Quito Papallacta Cotopaxi Tena / Amazon Baños EC UA D O R

Alausí

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (9 nts), simple village cabanas (2 nts), rustic mountain lodge (2 nts)

11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Public bus, plane, taxi, canoe, private van, 4WD, truck

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Cuenca

159

COLOMBIA EXPRESS PRICE FR $1,849

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE BOGOTÁ - CARTAGENA

DURATION 9 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Valle de Cocora hike, Medellín city walk, Cartagena orientation tour

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Jul

Dec

02 06 04 01 05 03 07 05 16 20 11 08 19 10 14 12 23 27 18 15 26 17 21 19 30 25 29 24 28 26 31

Nov

04 11 18 25

Oct

07 14 21 28

Sep

01 08 15 22 29

Aug

04 11 18 25

Jun

May

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Apr

LES APP

Mar

Feb

Jan GE 10

ILI

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MY OWN ROOM: Fr $419

DAYS 1-3 Bogotá / Armenia

DAYS 5-7 Medellín / Guatapé

Colombia’s bustling capital awaits, so bond with your group while walking through its cobbled Old Town. On Day 2, fill up at Paloquemao market for brekkie before flying to Armenia in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle. Two nights at a traditional hacienda will recharge you before a tour of a coffee farm in the Calarcá region. Learn about the coffee culture and sip some of the good stuff. (2B, L)

Stunning scenery leads the way to Medellín, Colombia’s favourite city. After a neighbourhood tour, discover the regenerating city for yourself. Ride up to Arví Park and hang out in artists’ houses and among the sculptures of Plaza Botero. There’s also a free day where you can opt to visit Guatapé’s colourful houses and artificial lake. (3B)

DAYS 4-7 Salento / Medellín / Guatapé Take your caffeine high and hike through the green landscapes of the Cocora Valley, dotted with hundreds of cloud-hitting palms. Soak up more of the coffee vibes at the lively market town of Salento in the region of Quindío. It’s worth it to hit up one of the town’s cafés, or even opt to go horseback riding. (B)

Cartagena

DAYS 8-9 Cartagena Take a morning flight to Cartagena on the Caribbean Coast. Explore the Old Town, walk the colonial city walls, dine on the beach and dance your final night away. Live music and spontaneous dancers can be found on practically every corner, so you won’t have to look far. (2B) Medellín

Tour Code: GASMCQ

Guatapé

Bogotá

Armenia / Salento

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (6 nts), hacienda (2 nts)

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Plane, private van, public bus, 4WD

COLOMBIA JOURNEY PRICE FR $2,499

CO LO M B I A

TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE BOGOTÁ - BOGOTÁ

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 15, Avg 6 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Coffee farm visit, Medellín community walk, cooking class, Salento and Cocora Valley excursion, Cartagena city tour

04 08 07 11 09 20 18 15 19 24 21 19 18 15 21 26

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $659

DAYS 1-3 Bogotá / Armenia

DAY 7 Cartagena

Arrive into cultural Bogotá and transfer to your hotel. Next day, fly to Armenia and immerse yourself in coffee culture with two nights at a traditional hacienda on a working coffee farm. Spend the afternoon with a coffee expert then head to Salento for a hike in the verdant Corcora Valley. (2B, 2L, 2D)

Next up is a flight to tropical Cartagena. Enjoy a walking tour through the old part of the city, visiting key sites throughout the historical centre. Later, enjoy an evening cooking class of Caribbean and Colombian specialities at Interno Training Restaurant, a social reintegration project that offers an innovative space for reconciliation between female prisoners and civil populations. (B)

DAYS 4-6 Medellín Catch a flight to vibrant Medellín and enjoy time to explore the city on arrival. On Day 5, visit Comuna 13 - a community transformed. Once controlled by the cartels, this neighbourhood is shining example of Colombia’s progress in overcoming its notorious past. The next day is yours to spend at leisure. (3B)

Cartagena

DAYS 8-9 Cartagena Experience the city’s Caribbean charm with free time for optional activities before a private Colombian salsa lesson later in the day. Depart at any time on Day 9. (2B, D)

Tour Code: GASMENG

Medellín

CO LO M B I A

Bogotá

160

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (6 nts), hacienda/farm (2 nts)

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Bus, private vehicle, jeep, plane

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Armenia / Salento

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

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Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

LATIN AMERICA

DEPARTURES 2020:

COLOMBIAN CARIBBEAN HIGHLIGHTS PRICE FR $1,459

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE CARTAGENA - SANTA MARTA

AGE GROUP: Min 13 GROUP LEADER: English-speaking guide (groups of 6+ only). Groups of fewer than 6 can opt for an English-speaking guide for an extra USD $150 GROUP SIZE: Min 1 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Totumo Volcano mud bath, 3-day Punta Gallinas tour, 5-day Lost City Trek

INDEPENDENT TOUR

MEALS: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches,

6 dinners

Jungle treks, cobblestone alleys and volcanic mud baths. This is a Caribbean holiday with a twist (though there’s still plenty of sandy beaches and rum cocktails, too). Spend your first few days exploring Cartagena’s atmospheric Old Town. On Day 3, visit Totumo Volcano for a muddy soak, then wash it all off at the beach. Setting off from Santa Marta, Days 5 to 9 will take you deep into the jungle to the Lost City, past indigenous villages and swimming holes. See out the rest of the trip on the beaches of Punta Gallinas and Cabo de la Vela.

DEPARTS: Daily TRANSPORT:: Return airport transfers, transfer to all tours as per the itinerary

Tour Code: BECTGCCH

SANTA MARTA & PARQUE TAYRONA PRICE FR $350

DURATION 4 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Min 18 GROUP LEADER: Min 1

ROUTE SANTA MARTA - SANTA MARTA

GROUP SIZE: Min 1 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Full-day Tayrona National Park tour with Spanish-speaking driver ACCOMMODATION: Hostel (3 nts) MEALS: 3 breakfasts DEPARTS: Daily

INDEPENDENT TOUR

Discover the country’s oldest-surviving city and an enchanting national park on this fourday tour in northern Colombia. Covering a vast area of rich jungle and dreamlike beaches, paradise-like Tayrona National Park isn’t a bad place to spend the day. Hop on a local fisherman’s boat to Playa Cristal, then kick back on this secluded cove, paddle between coral reefs and soak up the Caribbean sun. Suitably sunned-out, head back to Santa Marta for a night out, or a quiet night in, no pressure! Either way, enjoy the Caribbean vibes. Tour Code: SMRPRT

LOST CITY TREK PRICE FR $925

DURATION 5 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Min 13

ROUTE SANTA MARTA - SANTA MARTA

GROUP LEADER: Spanish-speaking guide (Translator included for groups of six or more) GROUP SIZE: Max 16 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Return Santa Marta transfers, hammocks and supplies on Lost City trek (carried by porters), permits and entry fees, Spanish-speaking guide during trek ACCOMMODATION: Hammocks with mosquito

nets (4 nts) SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

MEALS: All food during trek DEPARTS: Daily (excluding Sep)

Talk to most backpackers in Colombia and they’ll probably be raving about the Lost City trek. Meet the locals in indigenous Kogi villages and traverse the Buritaca River. It might sound daunting to climb 1,200 mossy steps to reach the Lost City, but it’s totally worth it. Rediscovered by treasure hunters in the 1970s, you’ll be amazed by the intricate staircases, terraces and views. Then turn around and go back to Santa Marta the way you came. Meet more communities along the way and take every opportunity to cool off in jungle pools.

Tour Code: BESMRLCT

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

161

LATIN AMERICA

ACCOMMODATION: Hostels (7 nts), hammocks with mosquito nets and blankets (6 nts)

BUENOS AIRES TO RIO DE JANEIRO: FALLS & FOOTY SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 17 DAYS

ROUTE BUENOS AIRES - RIO DE JANEIRO

LATIN AMERICA

PRICE FR $2,799

NEED TO KNOWS AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

LES AP

Y, PL

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 14

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

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Jun

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Apr

Mar

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Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

03 03 02 17 01 05 03 03 04 09 09 02 01 12 01 10 05 06 22 08 08 10 07 17 12 13 04 04 15 05 13 21 13 24 11 12 13 10 11 16 16 07 08 19 08 17 24 16 27 15 15 17 14 18 26 20 28 11 26 12 20 28 20 29 22 19 24 21 21 30 23 18 19 24 23 25 22 27 25 27 22 27 30 29

IGUASSU FALLS

ILHA GRANDE

ESTANCIA STAY

See the Argentine side of the cascading falls.

An island specialising in gorgeous beaches, just north of Rio.

The ultimate Argentine experience: a stay at a real working ranch.

DAYS 1-3 Buenos Aires / Colonia Buenos Aires has steaks, tango and plenty of character, making it the perfect starting point to your tour. Explore the ‘Paris of the Americas’, from classy Recoleta to bohemian San Telmo, before crossing the Rio de la Plata to Uruguay’s Colonia on Day 3. Stroll along the riverfront and hire a golf buggy to the lighthouse in time for a stunning sunset.

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $659

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • G for Good favela experience • Estancia stay and activities • Entry to the Argentinian side of Iguassu Falls

DAYS 4-7 Montevideo / Estancia Travel to Montevideo, Uruguay’s cool capital that’s renowned for hosting Buenos Aires’ socialites at the weekends. There are several good museums here, including the Carnival Museum that showcases a fabulous array of ornate Carnival costumes. Also, you can find some great beaches just outside the city and heaps of tasty street food. On Day 6, travel north for a taste of rural Uruguayan life. Get your hands dirty at a working estancia, and explore the countryside on horseback rides or day hikes. If it all seems like too much effort, sit back with a glass of wine and indulge in a traditional barbecue. (4B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 8-12 Iguassu Falls / Paraty In the morning, cross the border into Gualeguaychu in Argentina and start the long overnight bus journey to Iguassu Falls, one of South America’s most spectacular sights. Visit the Argentine side of the falls the next morning, and opt for a casual border hop in the afternoon for a Brazilian perspective. Skipping a mammoth 15hour bus ride, fly to São Paulo and head straight to the coast. Colonial Paraty is as pretty as a picture, so two days here are easy to fill. Tour the beautiful bay and nearby beaches by boat or, if you can tear yourself away from the ocean, visit a cachaça distillery for a taste of the strong stuff. (3B)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Reverse your trip Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires: Waterfalls & White Sands (17 days, Rio de Janeiro - Buenos Aires) (GAJRB) Fr $2,649

DAYS 13-17 Ilha Grande / Rio de Janeiro

B R A Z I L

Head up the coast and take the ferry towards Ilha Grande’s 100 beaches, lush hiking spots and sweet beachside caipirinhas. It’s back to the mainland on Day 15. Arguably the sassiest capital in South America, Rio is a strong end point to this three-country trip. Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer and iconic Sugarloaf Mountain top the must-see list for most people, and you’ll have some free time on your hands to do just that after the G for Good favela tour on Day 16. This comes complete with a drumming demonstration, a Capoeira lesson and even a few craft beers. The trip ends the following morning. (3B)

São Paulo Iguassu Falls

Tour Code: GAJBR

Estancia Colonia

Buenos Aires ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (9 nts), hostels (4 nts), multi-share estancia/ranch (2 nts), overnight bus (1 nt)

10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Plane, public bus, minivan, taxi, ferry

162

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

U R U G UAY

Montevideo

A RG E N T I N A

Ilha Grande Paraty

Rio de Janeiro

ARGENTINA & BRAZIL HIGHLIGHTS PRICE FR $1,825

TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

ROUTE BUENOS AIRES - RIO DE JANEIRO

DURATION 10 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, Englishspeaking local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 30 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Tango show and lesson, Interactive Argentine Food Experience, city tours of Rio and Buenos Aires, visit to Christ the Redeemer, cruise on Rio’s Harbour

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

05 02 07 11 09 13 04 01 05 03 07 12 09 06 12 09 21 25 16 27 18 15 19 10 21 26 16 13 19 15 28 30 22 24 28 30 27

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $2,330

DAYS 1-3 Buenos Aires The culture and diversity of Buenos Aires awaits! Learn all the tango tricks at a dance lesson and gorge yourself on steak and wine (what else?). If you’re looking to step up the pace, experience the pulsing and colourful nightlife. On Day 2, opt to stock up on handmade leather goods at the San Telmo markets or visit the historic Gran Café Tortoni. You’ve got the next day at leisure, so opt to visit El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a former grand theatre and now a beautiful bookstore. (2B, 2L, D)

DAYS 4-6 Iguassu Falls Fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 cascades of Iguassu Falls. Spot macaws and toucans and opt to fly over the falls via helicopter for a bird’s-eye view. Day 5, cross back into Argentina

and visit their side of Iguassu Falls with a walk to the aptly named Devil’s Throat. The rest of the day is yours, so opt for a speedboat ride to feel the spray of the falls. Tonight, tuck into a Brazilian barbecue with the group. Fly to Rio the following morning. (3B)

DAYS 7-10 Rio de Janeiro Home to the world’s largest Carnival and Copacabana Beach, get ready for awesome times in Rio. On Day 7, take in panoramic views from the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. The following day is yours to explore. If you want a night of dancing, head to Pedra do Sal for an improvised samba, or just indulge on the caipirinhas! The trip ends on Day 10. (4B, D)

Tour Code: COBARJ

B R A Z I L

Rio de Janeiro Iguassu Falls A RG E N T I N A

Buenos Aires ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (9 nts)

9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

2 local flights, transfers, private air con coach, mini-coach or van

IGUASSU & BEYOND PRICE FR $2,149

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE BUENOS AIRES - RIO DE JANEIRO

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Iguassu Falls visit

(Argentina and Brazil)

LES APP

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Jun

Oct

Nov

Dec

07 14 18 28

15 18 22 29

09 16 20 30

13 04 01 09 14 17 11 08 12 17 20 25 15 23 21 27 22 26 24

04 07 18 28

02 05 08 12

Sep

May

01 08 12 29

Aug

Apr

04 11 18 25

Jul

Mar

, LY

Feb

Jan ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTURES 2020:

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $599

DAYS 1-3 Buenos Aires / Iguassu Falls

DAYS 6-7 Ilha Grande

Join your group and hit the town to the unmistakable rhythms of tango and hunt for steak and a bottle of Malbec. Next day, fly up to Iguassu Falls for two full days of exploration. See the falls from both Argentine and Brazilian sides, and walk up to the Devil’s Throat for photos of Mother Nature at her most thunderous. (2B)

Continue up the coast and ferry over to Ilha Grande. Take your pick from over 100 beaches and relax, king prawn kebab in one hand and a coconut in the other. Optional hikes include Pico do Papagalo and Lopez Mendez. (4B)

DAYS 4-5 Paraty Fly to São Paulo and continue by van to the sandy shores of Paraty. Not only a stunning snorkelling spot, Paraty is also the perfect base for some island-hopping. There’ll also be time to visit some cachaça distilleries. Spend the following day at your own leisure - opt to take a boat trip, go kayaking, or go horse riding.

DAYS 8-9 Rio de Janeiro Rio – Brazil’s sparkliest jewel. According to the Cariocas (the locals), God made the world in six days, and devoted the seventh to Rio. Bordered by the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and graced with sweeping views from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, we won’t dismiss that claim outright. Explore at leisure before the trip ends on Day 9. (2B)

Tour Code: GASAIB

B R A Z I L

Paraty São Paulo Iguassu Falls

Rio de Janeiro Ilha Grande

A RG E N T I N A

Buenos Aires ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts

Plane, van, ferry

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

163

LATIN AMERICA

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

WONDERS OF BRAZIL SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE RIO DE JANEIRO - RIO DE JANEIRO

LATIN AMERICA

PRICE FR $3,149

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guide while in the Pantanal

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

AGE GROUP: Min 12

LES APP

, LY

GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 10

10 07 06 17 01 19 10 14 11 17 28 13 28 22 26 17 21 18 31 20 30 24 24 25 31

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Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2020:

16 20 04 19 24 08 23 27 30

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,219

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES THE PANTANAL

IGUASSU FALLS

BONITO

Look out for jags on a two-day excursion to the Pantanal wetlands.

See the falls from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides.

And eco tourism hub of clear waters and explorable caves.

• G for Good favela experience • Iguassu Falls visit (Brazil & Argentina) • Pantanal wildlife excursion

DAYS 1-3 Rio de Janeiro / Ilha Grande Spending just your first two days in Rio, take in the city’s spirit on a G for Good favela experience which includes a Capoeira lesson and a drumming demo. The following morning, zip across the water to car-free Ilha Grande. Spend time here hiking forest trails and exploring the island’s beaches. (2B)

DAYS 4-6 Paraty Make the 300 kilometre journey up the coast to Paraty. Once a staging post for Brazilian gold trading, today it’s a popular getaway for people just wanting to relax (and sample some of its famous cachaça). It’s also home to some of the world’s best Portuguese colonial architecture. Wander aimlessly for two days, relax on the beaches or opt to take a caipirinha boat excursion along the bay. (2B)

DAYS 7-8 Iguassu Falls Today, jump on a flight to Iguassu Falls, straddling the borders of three countries. You have a couple of days to see the falls from two sides. Visit the Brazilian side to get the best panoramic view, and opt for a helicopter ride to get yet another angle. Experience Iguassu in Argentina by exploring the nearby trails and catwalks. (B)

DAYS 9-11 Bonito It’s all travel on Day 9 as you make your way to the eco tourism hub of Bonito. A popular holiday destination among young people from the southern cities, this is a laid-back town that dozes off a little in between the holiday seasons, but never loses its charm. Make the most of the optional activities, and fill your days snorkelling in the rivers or exploring nearby caves and waterfalls. (2B) B R A Z I L

DAYS 12-15 Pantanal / Rio de Janeiro

Pantanal

Travel on to the Pantanal, a wetland region teeming with some of Brazil’s most impressive wildlife. On a twoday guided excursion, look out for capybaras, howler monkeys, caimans, giant otters, anacondas, anteaters and Jabiru storks. If you’re lucky, you might even spot one of the resident jaguars as they prowl for their dinner. On Day 14, transfer to Campo Grande and fly back to Rio for one last samba-fuelled night out with your group. Depart any time after breakfast on Day 15. (4B, 2L, 2D)

Campo Grande Bonito Paraty São Paulo

Tour Code: GASZWB

Iguassu Falls

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (12 nts), multi-share tented room with hammocks (2 nts)

11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Public bus, van, plane

164

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Rio de Janeiro

Ilha Grande

LATIN AMERICA

Rio CARNIVAL

Hosting one of the biggest outdoor parties on the planet, Rio cranks up the heat, the sass, the sparkle and the feather count for Carnival. A few attractions close down for the occasion, but it’s still a great time to visit the city. After all, five million revellers can’t be wrong! RIO CARNIVAL ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE 6 DAYS Fr $1,585

ambadrome ticket S (Sector 13) Blocos party See the parade

rientation walk O Escadaria Selarón Copacobana Beach Tijuca Forest

4 DAYS Fr $1,033

Welcome cocktail & face paint amba dance class S Sunset boat cruise City tour Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf Sambadrome ticket (Sector 12 or 13) Daily blocos Get you fill of samba and street parties with this sizzling four-dayer. On top of your Sambadrome ticket, guides are on hand to escort your to the city’s best beaches, blocos and dance classes.

Street parties? Check. Sequins? Check. Samba? Check! Get into the colourful thick of things with this six-day trip, including a Sambadrome ticket to see the parade, a guided city walk and a day at one of the blocos.

INCLUSIONS Departs: 21Feb20 Accommodation: 3* hotel (3 nts) Meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch Group Leader: Local guides Tour Code: BEBAMCF3

INCLUSIONS Departs: 21Feb20 Accommodation: 3* hotel (5 nts) Meals: Not included Group Size: Max 25 Group Leader: Local guides Transport: Private bus, metro Note: Upgrade to the Complete Carnival Experience. Ask your Travel Expert for details Tour Code: DRRTI

CABANACOPA HOSTEL CARNIVAL BUNDLE AND SAMBADROME TICKET

RIO DE JANEIRO CARNIVAL EXPERIENCE

7 DAYS Fr $956

Sambadrome ticket See the parade Street art tour Big Dude city tour Free caipirinhas Airport pick-up

6 DAYS Fr $1,799

ELIGIBIL

A real all-in-one! This bundle includes a ticket to one of the Sambadrome’s liveliest sections, as well as trips to Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer. And to really channel the Carioca spirit? An exclusive beach party. Make sure you find something purple to wear!

AG E 1 0

Christ the Redeemer Exclusive Copacabana beach party See the parade All transfers

S ambadrome ticket (Sector 5) Staff on hand 24 hours City tour S ugarloaf Mountain

FULL CARNIVAL EXPERIENCE

, L E S A P P LY

Transfer from the airport to the popular CabanaCopa Hostel and start as you mean to go on, with a caipirinha in your hand! For flexibility, all included activities (above) can be done on any day, so you can pace yourself or get stuck in!

INCLUSIONS

Departs: 21Feb20 Trip Style: Classic Accommodation: 3* hotel (5 nts) Service Level: Standard Meals: 5 breakfasts Group Size: Avg 80 Group Leader: Chief Experience Officers Transport: Private van, public bus, taxi Tour Code: GASZCE

Departs: 21Feb20-02Mar20 Accommodation: CabanaCopa Hostel (6 nts) Meals: 6 breakfasts Group Leader: Local guides Tour Code: RIO55C

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

165

HIGHLIGHTS OF CHILE & ARGENTINA PRICE FR $2,199

ROUTE SANTIAGO - BUENOS AIRES

DURATION 10 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Valparaíso visit, guided tour of Santiago, winery tour, horseback ride at a gaucho ranch

GE 10 SE

ILI

LES APP

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

02 03 05 09 07 04 02 13 03 08 05 03 16 06 12 16 14 30 20 10 15 12 10 30 20 19 30 21 17 29 26 17

E PA

ELIGIB

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $599

DAYS 1-3 Santiago / Valparaíso

DAYS 6-8 Bariloche / Gaucho Ranch / Bariloche

Touch down in Santiago and hit the streets with a guided tour. This vibrant metropolis is the perfect spot to shop, relax streetside in a café or hike to the lookout of Cerro Santa Lucia in your free time. Leave for the colourful hillsides of Valparaíso and stop at a winery en route. Plonk yourself down on the beach or suss out some street art before taking an overnight bus to Pucón. (2B)

Cross the Andes into Argentina, driving through the Seven Lakes District. You’ve got a free evening in the pretty waterfront town of Bariloche before transferring to a gaucho ranch for a barbecue lunch and a horseback ride with the local cowboys. (3B, L)

DAYS 4-5 Pucón Pucón, in the Chilean Lake District, is all about adventure. Opt to hike the snow-capped Villarrica Volcano, soak in some nearby natural hot springs, go rafting down white water rapids or simply explore the area on foot. This spot is also famous for its skiing and snowboarding, so if you’re a powder hound - time to go wild! (2B)

DAYS 9-10 Buenos Aires Valparaíso

You’ll see the mountains from above on your flight to the cosmopolitan capital of Buenos Aires. Once there, opt to tour the city by bike or visit the many museums. If you’re looking for that perfect holiday shot, head to the lively neighbourhood of La Boca and immerse yourself in colour before departing at any point on Day 10. (2B)

Santiago Buenos Aires

C H I L E

A RG E N T I N A

Pucón

Tour Code: GASCCA

Bariloche Estancia

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (8 nts), overnight bus (1 nt)

9 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Plane, public bus, van

TORRES DEL PAINE THE W TREK PRICE FR $1,699

DURATION 6 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Active AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE PUERTO NATALES - PUERTO NATALES

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), mountain guides, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Three-night Torres del Paine National Park camping excursion

GE 10

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

04 01 07 04 18 08 17 25 22 31

E PA

ELIGIB Y

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

LATIN AMERICA

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

10 07 01 02 06 09 20 11 12 19 16 23 31 17 22 26 27 30

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $99

DAYS 1-2 Puerto Natales / Serrano Camp

DAY 4 Cuernos Camp

Puerto Natales is the gateway to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park, so it’s nothing if not scenic. Take a day here to acclimatise and rent all equipment needed for the hike. Make sure you get plenty of rest though - it’s an active four days ahead! Start the 62-kilometre route by trekking to the base of Las Torres to see the dramatic three towers and turquoise lagoon below. (B, L, D)

Hike first to the Italian camp, then set out to the French Valley Mirador. Take in some epic scenery on this stretch – think light blue lakes contrasting beautifully against the deep green forest. Getting tired? Try taking bigger steps when hiking to save energy in the long run. (B, L, D)

DAY 3 Paine Grande Camp Nothing wakes you up like a picturesque ferry ride on the waters of Lake Pehoé. Later on, hike Grey Lake, passing by the lookout point for Grey Glacier to admire its sheer scale. It’s a pretty breathtaking place - and it’s not just because of the altitude. (B, L, D)

DAYS 5-6 Cuernos Camp / Puerto Natales It’s the final day of the W Trek, and there’s no better way to go out than with the views of the Cuernos del Paine. Snap a photo of the mountains reflecting in the Lake Nordenskjöld before heading back to Puerto Natales for one final night. Head off at any point on Day 6. (2B, L)

Tour Code: GASCWT

A RG E N T I N A

Paine Grande Camp

Cuernos Camp Serrano Camp

Puerto Natales C H I L E

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

166

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (2 nts), camping (3 nts)

5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Van, ferry

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Hike Patagonia in Depth 14 days (GASAPI)

Fr $4,199

END OF THE EARTH SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

PRICE FR $4,199

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE BUENOS AIRES - BUENOS AIRES

GE 10

LATIN AMERICA

E PA

ELIGIB T

NEED TO KNOWS

ILI

LES APP

, LY

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), mountain guide in Torres del Paine, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

04 01 02 11 08 07 13 10 09

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

USHUAIA It’s more than just the gateway to Antarctica. Try hiking, sailing and skiing like it’s the end of the world.

Apr

BUENOS AIRES It looks a lot like Europe, but feels distinctly Latin. Learn the tango and munch on world-class beef.

Mar

TORRES DEL PAINE The name translates to ‘towers of blue’ and oh boy does it deliver. This remote gem is worth the journey.

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP STYLE: Classic

10 02 05 02 01 01 12 07 07 04 06 06 17 09 12 09 08 08

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM : Fr $1,119

DAYS 1-3 Buenos Aires / El Chaltén Strut out into Buenos Aires and explore the eclectic neighbourhoods before flying to El Calafate and transferring to El Chaltén. A full-day hike is in store to the Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres, surrounded by the striking landscape of Glacier National Park. Walk through a sea of granite pinnacles, gawp at the iconic Cerro Fitz Roy (a whopping 3,441 metres!) and hang out at the village of El Chaltén for a taste of local life. (B)

DAYS 4-5 El Chaltén / El Calafate / Perito Moreno Glacier Return to El Calafate then drive west to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of only three advancing glaciers in Patagonia. During the trip you may spot condors, rheas, eagles or flamingos, but the real star of the day is the glacier itself. Enjoy a guided tour on Day 5, as this handsome hunk of ice is 18,000 years old and still looking cool. (2B)

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Full-day El Chaltén and Los Glaciares National Park hike • Perito Moreno Glacier guided tour • Torres del Paine National Park excursion and guided hikes

DAYS 6-9 Puerto Natales / Torres del Paine National Park Continue south along an unpaved road to the Chilean border. A relaxing evening in Puerto Natales prepares you for an epic trip to Torres del Paine, one of South America’s most prized national parks. With nightly camping and daily hikes, you’ll see that the park doesn’t have a bad side in the shadow of rugged peaks and electric blue glaciers. Keep an eye out for herds of guanaco and a growing population of puma, then return to Puerto Natales on Day 9. (4B, 2L, 2D)

DAYS 10-12 Punta Arenas / Ushuaia From Punta Arenas cross into Argentina’s Ushuaia by bus. This city is situated on the tip of the continent and faces towards Antarctica. It also happens to be your base for optional marine wildlife cruise of theCBeagle If Eyour O U N TChannel. RY N A M friends came with you here, you can literally say they followed you to the ends of the Earth. (3B)

Buenos Aires

City Name

DAYS 13-14 Ushuaia / Buenos Aires

A RG E N T I N A

Fly back to Buenos Aires and see the parts of the city you missed first time round. If you haven’t satisfied your steak quota just yet, this is the time to do it! After dinner, work out the meat sweats with a round or two of tango and find yourself a partner at a local club to throw around the dancefloor. The trip ends on Day 14. (2B)

Tour Code: GASAPE

C H I L E

El Chaltén

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (11 nts), camping (2 nts)

13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Public bus, van, plane, boat

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

El Calafate Torres del Paine N.P. Puerto Natales Punta Arenas Ushuaia

167

GE 10

argentina

ILI

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ELIGIB Y

A NTA RC TICA

Vivid emerald, violet tints, intense blue and crimson light - the Antarctic is anything but a world of white desolation. Encounter huge whales, enormous colonies of penguins and stunning landscapes few have ever witnessed. Bring on that seventh continent! RU

chile

LES APP

, LY

FALKLAND ISLANDS

USHUAIA SOUTH GEORGIA DRAKE DRAKE

PASSAGE

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA & SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS

THE BOAT Facilities When you’re not exploring, stretch your sea legs in the gym, warm up in the sauna, chill out in the lounge and get ship faced in the Polar Bear pub.

On-Board Experts A 55-strong crew, plus 14 marine biologists, historians and naturalists are on hand to share their knowledge on all things Antarctica.

Zodiac Fleet A large fleet of Zodiac boats with 4-stroke engines will take you ashore on various excursions, meaning you can get right in the thick of it.

G Expedition Parka All passengers receive their own high-performance parka, specifically designed for adventuring in the polar regions' frozen climate.

FAQs WILL THE COLD AFFECT ME?

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?

WHERE WILL I SLEEP?

WHAT WILL I EAT?

Colder, drier and windier than anywhere else on the planet, Antarctica requires plenty of preparation. Highs of 15 degrees have been reported, though even in the summer, temperatures are below freezing most of the time. Pack plenty of layers!

As you’ll be setting foot on land, walking, hiking and even swimming (if you’re brave!), we recommend you have at least a moderate level of fitness if you’re joining this tour. In order to join, you’ll also need to fill out a medical form. It’s a prerequisite.

You’ll be staying aboard the G Expedition boat in twin, triple or quad-share cabins. All have their own en suite, plus a porthole or window. Looking for something more fancy? Opt for your own private suite. There’s nothing better than being lulled to sleep by the waves.

On board the expedition ship you’ll find a diverse range of gourmet international cuisines prepared by professional chefs. There’s always different meals available (not to mention tasty) and vegetarians will find plenty of options.

Antarctic Circle

Classic ANTARCTICA

11 DAYS, USHUAIA - USHUAIA $7,999

LATIN AMERICA

HIGHLIGHTS

DAYS 5-8 The Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands This is what you’ve been waiting for: your first glimpse of the Great White Continent! For four days, the ship will navigate southwards through

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Marine AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: One expedition team member per 10 guests GROUP SIZE: Max 134

21 11 01

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Apr

Your adventure begins with a 1000-kilometre crossing of the passage named in honour of the 16th-century English sea captain, Sir Francis Drake. As the lecture sessions begin, learn about the extraordinary human and natural history of Antarctica from your expedition team. During the excursion, you’ll spend some time collecting ocean data as part of the G for Good project in partnership with the Central Caribbean Marine Institute. (2B, 2L, 2D)

the Bransfield Strait, making stops in the South Shetland Islands en route to the Antarctic Peninsula. The goal is to attempt two shore excursions per day, but the daily schedule will depend on the weather and ice conditions. The Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands are bouncing with wildlife. Penguins gather with their chicks, whales are seen in great numbers, seals chill out on ice floes and numerous albatross and other sea birds trail in the wake of the ship. There’s plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. Cue glittering glaciers, imposing icebergs, saw-toothed mountains and fields of ice that stretch forever. As well as enjoying Antarctica’s endless beauty, you might also get the chance to get involved with the Ocean Health Fund. (4B, 4L, 4D)

Mar

DAYS 3-4 The Drake Passage

ZODIAC EXCURSIONS No need for binoculars! Jump in a Zodiac boat and get closer to the Antarctic action.

Feb

Arrive in Ushuaia and enjoy the sights of the world’s southernmost city, and meet your group this evening. The morning of Day 2 is left free, ideal if you need to buy any last-minute essentials or try out an optional excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park. The G Expedition sets sail in the afternoon. Enjoy your first evening on-board by watching the sunset over the Beagle Channel. (B, D)

DAILY LECTURES Days at sea are filled with lectures on everything from local wildlife to Antarctica’s geology and history.

Jan

DAYS 1-2 Ushuaia

WILDLIFE As barren as it looks, life - specifically penguins, whales, seals and seabirds - thrives here.

DAYS 9-11 The Drake Passage / Ushuaia

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

Today, the journey back up north to Ushuaia begins. Review the highlights of your Antarctic experience with the lecturers and staff - being here is something most people never get the chance to do. Up on the observation deck, scour the waters one last time to get that sought-after tail shot of a passing whale. On Day 11, arrive back into Ushuaia and disembark after breakfast. (3B, 2L, 2D)

• Zodiac excursions • Lectures and educational programmes • Waterproof boots supplied for UK sizes 2-14 • Expedition parka

Tour Code: GAXVCASX

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners

G Expedition, Zodiac, private bus

$349

Follow in the footsteps of bold explorers and experience this land's awe-inspiring splendours first-hand.

$999

Head out in kayaks on days where zodiac landings are also available.

A NTA RC TI C K AYA K I N G

CUST OM

A N TA RC T I C C A M PI N G

ACCOMMODATION Twin-share hotel (1 nt), G Expedition vessel (twin, triple or quad-share cabins and suites, all with en suite) (9 nts)

T UR

RIP

Extend your trip Antarctica Classic in Depth (13 days, Ushuaia - Ushuaia) (GAXVAESX) Quest for the Antactica Circle (14 days, Ushuaia - Ushuaia) (GAXVQCSX) Spirit of Shackleton (21 days, Ushuaia - Ushuaia) (GAXVSHSX)

Fr $8,799

Fr $9,699

Fr $16,999

169

COSTA RICA QUEST SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE SAN JOSÉ - SAN JOSÉ

COSTA LATIN RICA AMERICA & PANAMA

PRICE FR $999

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Classic

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

AGE GROUP: Min 12

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides

ILI

LES APP

, LY

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 DEPARTS: 17-21 departures per month (JanMar), 7-11 departures per month (Apr-May), 4-6 departures per month (Jun-Nov), 13-17 departures per month (Dec-Mar21) MY OWN ROOM : Fr $399

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES G FOR GOOD

LA FORTUNA

SURF TOWN, QUEPOS

Take a tour of the Mi Cafecito coffee co-op and enjoy a local lunch.

Soak in hot springs, go white water rafting or rappel down a waterfall.

This beach town rocks a fitting balance of surf time and party time.

• G for Good visit to the Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative • Arenal hot springs visit • Guided cloud forest night walk in Monteverde

DAYS 1-3 San José / La Fortuna / Arenal San José warmly welcomes you with urban-chic spirit and a wave of cultural delights. If you arrive with plenty of time before the tour kicks off, we recommend getting stuck into the foodie scene. Bag the full hipster experience on a craft beer sampling extravaganza or bounce between the local Costa Rican coffee shops. On Day 2, drive to Sarapiquí and visit the G for Good Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation. As the town’s main cooperative, this community initiative brings together more than 200 small farmers that produce organic coffee from the four regions of San Carlos, Sarapiquí, Heredia and Alajuela. Find out where your cosy cup of Joe comes from, sample the goods and enjoy a typical lunch of plantain, beans and tilapia fish. Continue on to the Arenal region for a free afternoon of optional activities, like white water rafting or canyoning. La Fortuna is a first-class base for seekers of wild adventure. There are endless nature trails and volcanic hot springs for when you need a little wind-down session. (L)

DAYS 4-5 Monteverde Cross the jungle surrounds of Lake Arenal and cleanse your lungs with the freshest of fresh mountain air up on Monteverde. It’s time to beat your chest and harness your inner Tarzan - a jungle expedition awaits! Embark on an included cloud forest night walk, known as one of the best ways to bump into wildlife here. In fact, 80% of the wildlife is nocturnal in this region, so keep your eyes peeled for the two-toed sloth, hopping treefrogs, hooting owls and the occasional creepy tarantula (yikes). Day 5 is yours to explore, so don’t miss the chance to glide through the trees on a thrilling canopy zipline or walk through the canopy on a scenic Sky Walk.

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Customise your trip Costa Rica Adrenalin Bundle A half day canyoning in Arenal and a half-day ziplining in Monteverde. Fr $149 Go surfing Costa Rica Volcanoes & Surfing (9 days, San José - San José) (GACRVS) Fr $1,499

DAYS 6-9 Quepos / Manuel Antonio National Park / Quepos / San José Boogie on down to the laid-back surf town of Quepos on the Pacific Coast. This is one of Costa Rica’s best-known beach towns, situated just outside the stunning Manuel Antonio National Park. The warm turquoise water is ideal for swimming, sea kayaking, boogie boarding and surfing. You can also choose to go kayaking through mangroves. At night, the friendly streets of Quepos come alive, so strap on your salsa shoes and get to the dance floor with your best moves. The next day, ease your weary salsa legs with a trip to the beach before journeying back to city livin’ in the afternoon. The trip ends where you started - in Costa Rica’s cultural capital San José - so if you didn’t get the chance to squeeze in some pre-tour exploration, now’s the chance! Seek out some live music, or pick up a few last minute souvenirs at the markets. Your adventure ends on the morning of Day 9.

La Fortuna / Arenal CO S TA R I C A

Monteverde

Tour Code: GACRQ

San José

Quepos

170

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (8 nts)

1 lunch

Private vehicle, boat, local bus

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Manuel Antonio N.P.

COSTA RICA: OCEAN WAVES & SUNSETS PRICE FR $649

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE SAN JOSÉ - SAN JOSÉ

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 14 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: All transport between destinations, beach time in Santa Teresa DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays

GE 10

LATIN AMERICA

ILI

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ELIGIB T

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-3 San José / La Fortuna / Arenal

DAYS 4-8 Santa Teresa / San José

You’ll start your adventure at the very centre of the country in capital San José. Whether you get here earlier and spend some days exploring or get right into the tour, it’s totally up to you! Meet with your group and, on Day 2, head to La Fortuna. La Fortuna sits to the east of the smokin’ hot Arenal Volcano, often cited by scientists as being in the top 20 of the world’s most active. The beautiful surrounding countryside yields plenty of adrenalin sports to get involved in, such as white water rafting or waterfall rappelling. You can hike around the volcano or simply chill out with a relaxing soak in La Fortuna’s hot springs while gazing at the looming volcano as it appears from beneath the misty clouds. To let your inner child be free, opt for a canopy ziplining tour and soar through the forest at a mighty speed.

Day 4, travel to Santa Teresa on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Over the next few days, choose to chill out on the beach or check out wildlife-rich Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve. Those keen for some surfing are in for a treat, as the surfing opportunities are ample. You won’t even need a wet suit with the sunny Costa Rican skies shining above you! There are also yoga classes for our zen friends out there and nightlife for the party people. On Day 7, head back to the capital for one final hurrah, then your adventure concludes on Day 8 and it’s sadly time to say adiós to the pura vida lifestyle of the adventure utopia that is Costa Rica. If a week ain’t nearly enough, you can always choose to stay on longer.

La Fortuna Arenal Volcano

Tour Code: GACRBC

Santa Teresa

San José

CO S TA R I C A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels (3 nts), hostels (4 nts)

Not included

Local bus, ferry, taxi

COSTA RICA ACTIVE ADVENTURE PRICE FR $1,729

DURATION 13 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: Active AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE SAN JOSÉ - SAN JOSÉ

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Surfing lesson, overnight Pacuare River rafting trip, guided Pacuare River hike, guided cycling excursion DEPARTS: Selected Saturdays

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $739

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-6 San José / Monteverde / La Fortuna

DAYS 10-13 Puerto Viejo / San José

After meeting your group in San José, drive to wild Monteverde on Day 2 for optional wildlife spotting and flights on a canopy zipline. On Day 4, journey to La Fortuna near the base of the Arenal Volcano to try your hand at white water rafting, waterfall rappelling or volcano hiking. A leisurely cycle on Day 6 ends with an optional visit to bubbling hot springs nearby.

Lay down a towel on the beautiful white and black sand beaches of this region for some short but sweet R&R time. Then, pull on a rash guard, grab a big board and get ready to hang ten like a local on an included surf lesson, followed by snorkelling or yoga. Do as you please on Day 11, then track back to San José on Day 12. In your free time, go museum-hopping between the Gold Museum, the Museum of Costa Rican Art and the Jade Museum. The Gold Museum actually has one of the largest collections of Pre-Columbian gold in all of the Americas! Another must-see is the National Theatre, with its colossal murals and intricate ceilings. The tour ends on Day 13.

DAYS 7-9 Pacuare / Puerto Viejo The next day sees the start of your two-day rafting expedition down the Pacuare River, overnighting in remote rustic lodges built along the river. Towards the end, head for the village of Puerto Viejo. Think laid-back vibes in this Caribbean coastal town. (3B, 3L, 2D)

Tour Code: GACRSM

La Fortuna / Arenal Monteverde

San José

Pacuare River

Puerto Viejo

CO S TA R I C A

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (10 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts)

3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Public bus, private vehicle, bike, boat, raft

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Costa Rica Volcanoes & Surfing 9 days (GACRVS) Fr $1,499

171

VIVA COSTA RICA EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE SAN JOSÉ - SAN JOSÉ

LATIN AMERICA

PRICE FR $1,449

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 28

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

03 28 27 10 01 05 10 14 04 02 27 18 01 26 31 22 19 24 30 29

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

ARENAL VOLCANO

MONTEVERDE

MANUEL ANTONIO

Choose from hiking trails aplenty for ripper views of lava fields, waterfalls and the volcano itself.

The natural beauty of Monteverde is expansive, brimming with ferns, orchids and butterfly gardens.

A Costa Rican jewel, this national park bubbles with biodiversity. Sloth lovers will want to keep an eye out!

DAYS 1-2 San José / Arenal Welcome to San José! Get straight on the road on Day 1, bound for the biodiverse beauty of Sarapiqui. Opt to get wet and a little wild with a white water rafting excursion, then round your day off with group dinner. The active stratovolcano of Arenal will be your next exciting stop. Choose to go rappelling in a rainforest or soak in thermal hot springs and learn the fine art of chocolate making - one of the country’s most famous exports. (B, D)

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $2,274

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Locally guided tour of a cacao plantation • Coffee estate tour • Visit Manuel Antonio National Park • Dinner with a local family • Butterfly gardens visit

DAYS 3-4 Playa Tamarindo Calling all surfer dudes and beach loungers! Fancy spending a couple of days relaxing on wide-stretching sandy beaches with plenty of surfing, killer sunsets and a buzzing nightlife? Well, you’re in the right place. Hang ten on some of Costa Rica’s awesome beaches, hop on a catamaran cruise, or sip on cocktails on one of the beach bars. There are also some pretty cool kayaking opportunities. A collection of estuary waterways can be found just north of Tamarindo, where you can choose to kayak with a professional guide. Keep your eyes peeled for sunbathing crocs on the river bank and exotic bird species. And when you’re hungry, there’s a number of quaint eateries to choose from. You’ll be able to find anything from falafel and crunchy tacos for dinner to traditional Costa Rican cuisine. (2B, D)

DAYS 5-6 Monteverde Say adiós to the sweet beach life, as you’re off to Monteverde’s enchanting cloud forest. Shrouded in mist, you’ll feel like you’re on a movie set. This mountainous town is home to a host of activities that are any adrenalin-seeker’s dream. Opt to soar above rainforests on zipwire tours, head out in search of wildlife, go horseback riding, or head to Taco Taco for (you guessed it) some crunchy tacos. Dining at the tree house is also a pretty cool experience (and your eightyear-old self will wholeheartedly agree). While here, enjoy an included tour of a coffee plantation. (2B, D)

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Extend your trip Coast to Canopies (28 days, Mexico - Costa Rica) (COPVSJ)

Fr $6,039

DAYS 7-9 Manuel Antonio / San José Oceanside Manuel Antonio serves up a smorgasbord of good times - think ancient rainforests, sandy beaches, coral reefs, catamaran cruises, ziplining and hiking trails. It’s one of the best places to see a sloth in Costa Rica - if that’s not a reason to come, we’re not sure what is! Hike through the mountains with a local expert to spot macaws, and sleepy sloths, or alternatively, go horseriding to the Tacori waterfalls. Return to San José on Day 9. (3B, D)

Tour Code: COSJSJ

Arenal Volcano Saraquipi Monteverde

Playa Tamarindo

San José

CO S TA

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Private air-con coach, mini-coach, van

172

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

R I C A

Manuel Antonio N.P.

PANAMA EXPERIENCE: CLOUD FORESTS & CANALS PRICE FR $1,199

ROUTE SAN JOSÉ - PANAMA CITY

DURATION 14 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)

Max 18, Avg 14

GROUP SIZE:

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Not included

E PA SE

ILI

LES APP

, LY

BOCAS DEL TORO, PANAMA

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-3 San José / Puerto Viejo The capital San José is your urban starting point before taking off for Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. On Day 2, soak up the bohemian vibes of small village Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. See barefoot travellers take to stretches of white and black sand beaches with their boards for days spent riding the waves. Nights are spent dancing wildly to reggaeton beats at the local tiki bars.

DAYS 4-6 Bocas del Toro Cross the border into Panama, travelling by foot, bus and boat to the archipelago of Bocas del Toro. The perfect place to enjoy the waters of the Caribbean, fill up your days with optional snorkelling, scuba diving, beaching, or choose to take a boat out in search for dolphins. There’s also Red Frog Beach, famous for - any guesses?

DAYS 7-14 Boquete / Santa Catalina / Panama City Back on the mainland, settle in for a day of travel as you make your way to the mountain town of Boquete, where outdoor activities abound! The Pacific is your next stop, and Santa Catalina’s black-sand beaches mean a couple more beach-happy days as well as optional surf lessons or visits to Coiba National Park. Coiba is part of the country’s largest marine park, and often described as a cross between the Galápagos and the Indian Ocean’s Cocos Islands - so you can bet it’s at least pretty! On Day 12, leave the mountains and head to Panama City. Spend the next few days exploring the city before your tour wraps up on Day 14.

San José

CO S TA R I C A

Puerto Viejo

Tour Code: GACRSP

Panama City

Bocas del Toro Boquete

PA N A M A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Simple hotels (2 nts), multi-share hostels (11 nts)

Not included

Bus, boat, private vehicle, taxi

MEXICO: CITIES, CUISINE & RUINS PRICE FR $1,499

DURATION 15 DAYS

Santa Catalina

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE MEXICO CITY - PLAYA DEL CARMEN

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 18, Avg 14

DAYS 1-3 Mexico City

DAYS 7-10 Oaxaca / Mérida

Tequila? Check! Tacos? Check! Tropical vibes? Check! Add to that some culture and natural beauty and you’ve got yourself una buena vacacion. Your first three days are spent in Mexico City where you’ll take an included trip to Teotihuacán, famous for its Avenue of the Dead, and try local dishes on a street food crawl. (2B, D)

Take a day trip to Hierve del Agua, a series of mineral springs that run into natural infinity pools, then stop to taste mezcal in its original birthplace. Fly to Mérida on Day 9 and enjoy a cenote swim in the countryside. (4B)

DAYS 4-6 Veracruz / Oaxaca Travel to Veracruz where you’ll find beautiful beaches and some of the best white water rafting in Mexico. Get your bearings with an orientation walk, then do your own exploring. On Day 6, head south to the colonial city of Oaxaca and enjoy a guided walk of the main square and markets. Feeling peckish? Sample some delicious Oaxacan foods like mole or chapulines. (3B)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

04 01 21 11 09 13 11 08 12 10 14 12 09 06 06 18 29 28 25 27 25 22 26 28 26 16 20 20 30 27 27

DAYS 11-15 Rio Lagartos / Tulum / Playa del Carmen Travel to Rio Lagartos, home to the pink-hued Las Coloradas lakes, then continue on to Tulum’s cliffside ruins on Day 12. An optional day trip to Chichén Itzá is also up for grabs. Holy guacamole, it’s your last day! Drive to Playa del Carmen and enjoy a meal at G for Good’s El Hongo Restaurant before heading home. (5B, D)

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

Apr

LES APP

Feb

Jan

ILI

, LY

Mar

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good meal at El Hongo Community Restaurant, taco street food crawl, mezcal tasting, orientation walks of Veracruz & Oaxaca, Hierve del Agua day trip, visits to Teotihuacán Ruins, a cenote, Las Coloradas & Tulum Ruins

Playa del Carmen

Río Lagartos Mérida

Mexico City

M E X I CO

Veracruz

Tulum

Tour Code: GAMMC Oaxaca

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostels (14 nts)

14 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Local air con bus, taxi, private vehicle, plane

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

Day of the Dead Mexico (6 days, (GACMDD)

Fr $999

173

LATIN AMERICA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTS: Selected Tuesdays

MAYAN TRAIL PRICE FR $1,299

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12

ROUTE PLAYA DEL CARMEN - ANTIGUA

DURATION 11 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 16, Avg 12

GE 10

DEPARTS: Selected Thursdays and Sundays MY OWN ROOM: Fr $359

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB Y

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Playa del Carmen / Chichén Itzá

DAYS 7-9 San Cristóbal de las Casas

Ditch the tourist resorts of Cancún for the ruins, jungles and colonial cities of Mexico and Guatemala. On Day 2, your first stop is the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. A guide will show you these huge stepped pyramids and elaborate stone carvings.

Set high in a mountain valley, San Cristóbal de las Casas is known for its 16th-century architecture. Opt for a boat ride in Sumidero Canyon and visit local indigenous villages. Start Guatemala off right with Panajachel, on the shores of Lake Atitlán and surrounded by volcanoes. Spend a night at the G for Good Posadas Mayas homestay with a local family in San Juan La Laguna. (D)

DAYS 4-6 Mérida / Palenque / San Cristóbal Make for the white-stone city of Mérida. From here there’s the option to visit the ruins of Uxmal or take a dip in three cenotes (underground pools) in the nearby town of Cuzamá. Next up is the Mayan ruins of Palenque. Take a guided tour of the temples, then head to the Roberto Barrios Waterfall for a swim. Spend two nights in a jungle lodge in the nearby national park, then it’s on to San Cristóbal de las Casas for an orientation walk.

Playa del Carmen

Mérida

Chichén Itzá

DAYS 10-11 Panajachel / Antigua On arrival in Antigua, take an orientation walk of the cobblestone streets. Later, opt to take a cooking class or a salsa lesson if you fancy, then fiesta with your fellow travellers! The tour ends on Day 11.

M E X I CO

Palenque

Tour Code: GACMTM

San Cristóbal de las Casas G UAT E M A L A

Panajachel

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), homestay (1 nt)

1 dinner

Public bus, private vehicle, boat

YUCATÁN HIGHLIGHTS PRICE FR $1,165

Antigua

TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 6 DAYS

ROUTE MEXICO CITY - CANCÚN

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 30 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Pyramids of Teotihuacan tour, Merida walking tour, Chichen Itza tour, cenote swim, sunset beach dinner Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020/21: Jan

LATIN TABAMERICA NAME

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Posadas Mayas homestay, guided tours of Chichén Itzá & Palenque, orientation walks in Mérida, San Cristóbal de las Casas & Antigua, Roberto Barrios Waterfall visit

09 06 11 01 19 17 14 05 16 13 27 22 19

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAY 1 Mexico City / Mérida

DAY 3 Chichén Itzá / Cancún

If you’re after fun, food and fiestas, then you’ve come to the right place! You only have one day in Mexico City, so get here early and do your own exploring. Once you’ve met up with the rest of your group, take a guided tour of the Teotihuacán Ruins then hit the town and toast the start of your trip. Margaritas anyone? (D)

It’s an early start today as you explore the ancient Mayan city of Chichén Itzá. After a local guide has shown you its stepped pyramids and temples, head to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip. Next, the beaches and bars of Cancún call! (B)

DAY 2 Mérida Fly to the beautiful white stone city of Mérida for cheap eats and thriving markets. Tour the city’s beautiful colonial buildings and Government Palace then search out some Yucatán specialities to feast on. We suggest trying the local street food called Panuchos, a tortilla served with refried beans, shredded turkey, cabbage, pickled red onion, avocado and jalapeños! (B)

174

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,624

DAYS 4-6 Cancún See out the rest of your trip on the white sands of Cancún. Work on your tan by day and hit up the legendary nightlife in the evenings. Feel like taking things further afield? A day trip to Playa del Carmen could be just the ticket. Cap it all off with a fresh seafood dinner on the beach before flying home on Day 6. (3B, D)

Tour Code: COMEXH

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (5 nts)

5 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Air con coach with free Wi-Fi and power points for charging, internal flight

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Cancún Mexico City

Merida M E X I CO

Chichén Itzá

CANCÚN & BEYOND RUI NS, REE FS & LAT E NIG HTS

LATIN AMERICA

Synonymous with the scantily-clad shenanigans of Spring Break. Even if Cancún’s fun-filled resorts aren’t your cup of English Breakfast tea, the sands are white and sunkissed, and the sea turquoise. Swim by giant whale sharks, or spend a day at the Chichén Itzá ruins to fill any cultural void. For a more sophisticated vibe, head instead to the flashy former fishing village of Playa del Carmen. Or for near horizontal, ferry over to the laid-back charms of Isla Mujeres.

- TOP SELLER CLASS ACT

ALOFT CANCÚN

$78 $39

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

ROCK SOLID

KRYSTAL CANCÚN

$138 $69

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

A-LIST

GRAND OASIS CANCÚN

$180 $104

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ALL INCLUSIVE

LOCATION: Very close to Forum Beach,

LOCATION: Overlooking the Caribbean Sea,

LOCATION: Nestled on a strip of land

Marlin Beach and Coco Bongo nightclub.

next to a range of bars and nightclubs.

between the sea and Nichupte lagoon.

VIBE: Classy hotel with easy access to the

VIBE: A swanky place to rest your head

VIBE: Put your wallet away, this sprawling

beach, upscale shops and vibrant nightlife.

after a night (or day) out on the town.

beach resort is all inclusive.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms & suites

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-

• Outdoor pool • Bar • Restaurant • Bike rental • Gym • 24-hour reception

• In-room safe • Outdoor pool • 2 bars • 3 restaurants • Spa • Gym • Garden • Terrace

room safe • Outdoor pool • Private beach • 14 bars • 18 restaurants • Hot tub • Spa

CUNKRY

EHCUN2

THCUN1

MEXICO MARINE CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE PRICE FR $3,114

DURATION 4-12 WEEKS

LOCATION PUERTO MORELOS, MEXICO

PROJECT START DATE: Selected Sat (arrive Fri) GETTING THERE: Transfers from/to Cancún Airport included (incoming flight must arrive between 8am-8pm on Friday before project) ACCOMMODATION: Basic 6-8 bed mixed dorms in hut (28+ nts) MEALS: 3 meals a day NOTE: Background check and medical

examination required; PADI Open Water Certificate required; Advanced Open Water & Coral Reed Researcher Diver course included STAY LONGER: Fr $366 per week

Earn professional PADI diving qualifications while helping to protect the Mesoamerican reef, the world's second-largest barrier reef. Help local authorities protect this unique marine ecosystem by collecting data on coral bleaching, taking underwater photographs of endangered sea turtles to help researchers to identify individuals, and carry out beach and ocean floor plastic clean-ups. And your office? Best described as 'idyllic Caribbean' our favourite kind.

Tour Code: GVIMEX

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

175

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

YUKON

NUNAVUT

ALBERTA

EDMONTON JASPER WHISTLER BANFF

VANCOUVER

MANITOBA

canada

CALGARY

BRITISH COLUMBIA

SASKATCHEWAN

GLACIER N.P. ONTARIO

SEATTLE WASHINGTON

MONTANA NORTH DAKOTA

PORTLAND

MINNESOTA

YELLOWSTONE N.P.

OREGON

MINNEAPOLIS

SOUTH DAKOTA

IDAHO

WISCONSIN

WYOMING

IOWA

SALT LAKE CITY

CHICAGO

NEBRASKA

NEVADA

UTAH

LAKE TAHOE

DENVER

SAN FRANCISCO

MICHIGAN

TORONTO

DETROIT

united states of america

PENNSYLVANIA

NEW YOR ILLINOIS

INDIANA

OHIO

PHILADELPHIA

COLORADO

MD KANSAS

YOSEMITE N.P. LAS VEGAS CALIFORNIA

MISSOURI

GRAND CANYON N.P. ARIZONA

ALBUQUERQUE

NASHVILLE

OKLAHOMA

MEMPHIS

PHOENIX SAN DIEGO

ARKANSAS

TEXAS

DALLAS

NORTH CAROLINA

TENNESSEE

SOUTH CAROLINA

ATLANTA ALABAMA

LOUISIANA MISSISSIPPI

CHARLESTON SAVANNAH GEORGIA

AUSTIN NEW ORLEANS FLORIDA

ORLANDO

MIAMI

HONOLULU

hawaii USA

4,000 KM

VIRGINIA

WEST VIRGINIA KENTUCKY

NEW MEXICO

LOS ANGELES

WASHINGTON, D.C.

ST. LOUIS

WE LOVE >>>>> NEW YORK, NEW YORK

A city that, frankly, doesn’t give the others a chance. It’s a city of Big Times and it does not apologise for it. Never change, NYC. See more of New York on page 185.

BURRITOS IN WEST COAST USA

The West Coast is home to some good Mexican-inspired cuisine. Try the delicious chip and guac-filled California burrito. See more of West Coast USA on pages 180, 183 & 188-189. QUÉBEC CITY MONTRÉAL

TTAWA

HALIFAX

RK CITY NJ

NATIONAL PARKS IN CANADA NOVA SCOTIA

MAINE

PEI

NEW BRUNSWICK

NEW YORK

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

QUEBEC

BOSTON

Canada’s national parks will make you feel like you’re on another planet. Check out the magic of Banff, Jasper and Waterton Lakes. See more of Canada on pages 192-195.

THE HISTORY IN THE EAST COAST

The East Coast is peppered with historical big guns: Philadelphia, Plymouth, Boston and pretty much all of Washington, D.C. See more of East Coast USA on pages 178-179.

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

USA & CANADA ROAD TRIP: EASTERN HIGHLIGHTS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE NEW YORK - NEW YORK

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

PRICE FR $1,999

NEED TO KNOWS AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

LES AP

Y, PL

GROUP LEADER: 1 or 2 Chief Experience

Officers (CEOs)

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg 16

10 07 05 02 13 24 21 19 16 30

MY OWN ROOM : Fr $599

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES NEW YORK

NIAGARA FALLS

TORONTO

Your tour begins and ends in this dynamic city, so wolf down a bagel and get exploring!

The world’s most famous waterfall puts on quite a show. Feel the spray on a Maid of the Mist boat tour.

Welcome to Canada’s largest city, dotted with soaring skyscrapers and a multicultural population.

DAYS 1-5 New York City / Philadelphia / Washington, D.C. / Allegheny National Forest / Niagara Falls

• Entry to all national parks and monuments • Orientation walks in Washington, D.C., Toronto, Montreal and Boston • Maid of the Mist boat tour

Touch down singing New York, New York, and squeeze in some time to explore the Big Apple before meeting with your group. The following day, head south to Philadelphia to visit Independence Hall, where America’s first leaders drafted both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Continue on to political powerhouse and capital city Washington, D.C. With a full day here, uncover all the famous sights including the White House and Lincoln Memorial. Take a nature break as you dive into the lush Allegheny National Forest and continue to the thundering Niagara Falls. On a Maid of the Mist boat tour, feel the spray up close and by night, witness the falls illuminate. (4B, 2L, 3D)

DAYS 6-10 Toronto / Ottawa / Montréal

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

Mmm yes, breathe in that poutine ladies and gents, you’ll soon be making a border-crossing into Canada! Well, aside from this cheesy French fries dish, there’ll be pancakes topped with maple syrup and streaky bacon waiting for you, too. So with the Canadian expedition kicking off in Toronto, begin your foodie frenzy by hopping between all the thriving restaurants and shops, and the buzzing Kensington Market. If time permits, take up some sightseeing with a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame and the iconic CN Tower. On Day 8, pass through Algonquin Provincial Park’s lush maple and fire woods and sparkling lakes on your way to Ottawa, the nation’s capital. Enjoy free time to pick up some goodies at Byward Market, visit the parliament buildings, wander around the historic Glebe neighbourhood or treat yourself to a cheeky Beaver Tail or two (nope, it’s not what you think it is). On Day 9, continue to Montréal, the biggest French-speaking metropolis in the world after Paris. Opt to go cycling, jet boating, climb Mt. Royal or thrill yourself at La Ronde themepark. Montréal is also famous for its nightlife, so better bust out your best moves! (5B, L, 2D)

Shorten your trip USA Road Trip: Atlantic Coast (7 days, Orlando - New York) (GANUOE) Fr $1,199 USA Road Trip: New York to Nashville (7 days, New York - Nashville) (GANUYT) Fr $1,299 C A N A DA

DAYS 11-14 Boston / Cape Cod / New York City Crossing back into the States, spoil your sweet tooth with a tour of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory. Then in Boston, stroll to Faneuil Hall and the Freedom Trail on a guided city tour. Meander among the students of Harvard University before heading out to beautiful Cape Cod on Day 12. Here, you’ll set up camp and enjoy a sunset on the beach, taking the next day to relax on the sandy shores or go for a spot of whale watching. Track back to New York on Day 14, which is where your tour ends. Hang around if you want to lap up more of NYC’s big city vibes. (3B, L, D)

Tour Code: GANUYH

Algonquin Provincial Park Ottawa

Montréal

Toronto Niagara Falls Boston Allegheny National Forest

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels/hostels (4 nts, some multishare), participation camping (9 nts)

12 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners (5 lunches May-Jun)

Air con private vehicle

178

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Cape Cod

U SA

New York Philadelphia Washington, D.C.

EASTERN DISCOVERY EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

PRICE FR $2,725

DURATION 14 DAYS

ROUTE NEW ORLEANS - NEW YORK NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager and Driver GROUP SIZE: Max 54, Avg 45

HIGHLIGHTS

13 24

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

20 04 01 06 03 21 05 23 07 11 01 18 15 20 10 28 19 21 29 27 17 26 28 24

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

NEW ORLEANS

ASHEVILLE FOOD TOUR

WASHINGTON D.C.

Gobble on a gumbo and hit the jazz clubs by night, just don’t rub the voodoo spirits the wrong way...

Taste a bit of that southern charm with a foodie tour of culinary master Asheville.

The capital is calling with a plethora of iconic monuments and political history to uncover.

DAYS 1-3 New Orleans / Panama City Beach / Orlando

• Evening Illuminations Tour in Washington D.C. • Visit John F. Kennedy’s Grave • Visit the Smithsonian Museums of Natural History, Air & Space and American History • See the Castillo de San Marcos • Asheville food tour • Cuban dinner in Miami

Your trip starts in the morning as you take in the warm and soulful culture of the Big Easy. Meander through the French Quarter, listen to some jazz, feast on Southern cuisine and discover what voodoo is all about. Then as evening comes, hit the bars and jazz clubs of Bourbon Street. The vibrant, carnival-esque vibe of this wild area is best enjoyed alongside a punchy whisky on the rocks. Make it a double. Take the next day to travel through Sweet Home Alabama on your way to the white sandy shores of Panama City Beach. Kick back in the warm sun and then, on Day 3, get set for Orlando, residence of the House of Mouse. (2B)

DAYS 4-10 Orlando / Miami / St. Augustine / Savannah / Asheville

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS...

Orlando is home to more than a dozen themeparks, so ready yourself for two days of non-stop fun-chasing! Take advantage of your free one-way transfers to explore Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, MGM Studios, Epcot and Animal Kingdom. Once you’re all theme-parked out, make for the glamorous charms of Miami. Sunbathe along the beautiful beaches, max out your credit card or look out for A-list celebrities in South Beach’s hottest clubs. If you feel the need for speed, a ‘Thriller’ speedboat ride around the harbour should do the trick. Day 7 brings a change of pace as you travel north to the beaches and quiet allure of one of America’s oldest inhabited cities, St. Augustine. This city’s a real romantic, which you’ll soon see as you set off along the cobblestones towards the Spanish Quarter. Next up, it’s time for some southern hospitality in Savannah, where horse-drawn carriages clip clop past oak trees and tropical plants. Hop between historic city squares, homes and gardens made famous by ‘Forrest Gump’, then cross state lines into North Carolina, and the foodie hub of Asheville. Explore the city’s vibrant art scene and enjoy a foodie tour of the local culinary scene and breweries. (5B, 2D)

Reverse your trip Eastern Discovery (14 days, New York - New Orleans) (COGSNE) Fr $2,659 Customise your trip New York Explorer (4 days, New York - New York) (COEAEA) Fr $1,089

DAYS 11-14 Richmond / Washington, D.C. / Philadelphia / New York City

New York

Leave the mountains behind and head to Richmond, a city steeped in American history and one of the USA’s quintessential college towns. It’s a short drive to Washington, D.C. the next day, so there’s plenty of time to explore the place in daylight and at night, when they turn on the lights and illuminations. There’s also oodles of galleries and boutiques to nose about before you make your final approach to New York City. A mandatory cheesesteak sandwich stop in Philadelphia breaks up the journey before the high-rises of NYC come into view and your tour ends. (4B, D)

Washington, D.C. Richmond V I RG I N I A

Tour Code: COGSLE

Asheville N O RT H C A RO L I N A G EO RG I A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (13 nts)

11 breakfasts, 3 dinners

Modern air con coach with free Wi-Fi and power points

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

New Orleans

Panama City Beach Orlando

Savannah St. Augustine

F LO R I DA

Miami

179

DEEP SOUTH TO D.C. – MUSIC, EATS AND CULTURE ROUTE NEW ORLEANS - WASHINGTON, D.C.

DURATION 15 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 14, Avg 10 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Nashville saloon line dancing, Savannah Historic Walking tour, Charleston Harbor tour, Washington D.C. Monuments by Moonlight tour, Jack Daniel’s Distillery tour, New Orleans Cooking School demonstration

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

06 18 29

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Jan

ILI

Feb

GE 10

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

E PA

ELIGIB

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

DAYS 1-8 New Orleans / Memphis / Nashville / Atlanta

DAYS 9-15 Savannah / Charleston / Richmond / Washington, D.C.

Kick things off in NOLA, grab yourself a whisky and hit Bourbon Street for some good vibes. Spend the next day downing beignets at a local cafe before enjoying a Creole cooking demonstration for lunch. In your free time, go for a bike tour or board a steamboat on the Mississippi. Travel on to Memphis to catch live music on Beale Street, where Blues was born. From one music heavyweight to the next, make moves to boot scootin’ Nashville. Give us your best YEEHAW as you enter the country music capital of the world! Opt to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and try some crunchy fried chicken, followed by line dancing at a local saloon. On Day 7, Atlanta calls with its sweltering temperatures, with a tour of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery en route. (7B, L, D)

Carry through to Savannah and arrive in time for lunch. Savannah is well known for its shrimp and grits, so foodies will want to tick that one off the list! Take a walking tour, go for an optional boat cruise, then it’s off the port city of Charleston. An included history tour will take you to Fort Sumter, the location of the first shots of the Civil War. Continue to one of the oldest cities in the US, Richmond. Down some local craft beer before heading to capital Washington, D.C. See the Capitol Building, Smithsonian Museums and all the monuments with an evening tour before your tour ends on Day 15. (7B)

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $2,199

U SA

Nashville Memphis Atlanta

Tour Code: GANUND

Washington D.C.

Charleston Savannah

New Orleans ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (14 nts)

14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Air con private vehicle

USA ROAD TRIP: LAS VEGAS TO LA PRICE FR $1,549

DURATION 8 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE LAS VEGAS - LOS ANGELES

GROUP LEADER: 1 or 2 Chief Experience

Officers (CEOs) GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg 18 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Pacific Coast Highway drive, visits to Santa Cruz, Death Valley N.P., Yosemite N.P. & Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery DEPARTS: 3-5 departures per month MY OWN ROOM: Fr $199

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

(April-Sep)

ILI

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

PRICE FR $3,499

TRIP STYLE: Classic

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-2 Las Vegas / Sierra Nevada

DAYS 5-6 San Francisco

Viva Las Vegas! Touch down in Sin City at any time and hit up the neon-lit Strip. Don’t stay out too late though, as it’s an early start the next day. Experience the hottest and driest place on Earth, the legendary Death Valley. Pass peaks, badlands, salt flats and dunes, stopping at Zabriskie Point for a photo op. End the day surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains. (L, D)

Fab food, notorious nightlife and iconic sights - welcome to San Francisco. Glimpse the Golden Gate Bridge, take a cable car over the hills and savour fresh seafood before checking out the city’s trendy bars. Make the most of your free time on Day 6 by visiting Alcatraz Island. (B, L)

DAYS 3-4 Yosemite National Park This morning, visit Mono Lake and walk among the tufa towers before continuing to UNESCO-listed Yosemite National Park. Expect magnificent peaks, granite domes, misty waterfalls and giant sequoias. Day 4 is yours to explore by foot, bike or shuttle. Hike one of the many trails or cycle through Yosemite Valley. (2B, 2L, 2D)

180

DAYS 7-8 Morro Bay / Los Angeles Driving down California’s scenic Highway 1 you’ll find yourself in Santa Cruz. Marvel at the rugged coastline and mountain ranges of Big Sur and stop to see elephant seals at Piedras Blancas. Arrive in Morro Bay in time for sunset. On Day 8, celeb spot as you pass by famous sights on the way to LA where your tour ends. (B, D)

Tour Code: GANUVA

N E VA DA

Sierra San Nevada Francisco Death Valley Yosemite N.P. N.P. Morro Bay C A L I FO R N I A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hotels/hostels (3 nts), participation camping (4 nts)

4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Private air con vehicle

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Las Vegas Los Angeles

USA ROAD TRIP: SAN DIEGO, GRAND CANYON & VEGAS PRICE FR $1,099

ROUTE LOS ANGELES - LAS VEGAS

DURATION 7 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s GROUP LEADER: 1 or 2 Chief Experience

Officers (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg 18

GE 10

DEPARTS: 4-6 departures per month (Apr-Sep)

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB T

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-2 Los Angeles / San Diego

DAYS 4-5 Grand Canyon National Park

Arrive at any time and start your LA explorations. Hang with the locals on Venice Beach and meet your group in the evening. As you roll out the next morning, keep your eyes peeled for celebs. Cruise along the Pacific coastline until you reach the seaside city of San Diego. Visit Coronado Island, soak up the sun on Mission Beach and go clubbing at the beautifully restored Gaslamp Quarter.

Make for the Grand Canyon along the world-famous Route 66 and arrive in time for a sunset at the rim. Cameras at the ready! The following day, explore the national park by foot or rent a bicycle and cover more ground that way. High flyers can take an optional helicopter flight over the Canyon. (2B, 2L, D)

DAY 3 Joshua Tree N.P. / Lake Havasu Head inland to the otherworldly landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, taking in the desert scenery as you go. Make the most of the many well-trodden hiking trails while you’re here before overnighting in Lake Havasu City on the banks of the Colorado River. (B, L, D)

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $199

DAYS 6-7 Monument Valley / Las Vegas Start Day 6 with breakfast at a G for Good-supported Navajo food truck then drive through the desert to Monument Valley. The following day, hike to Horseshoe Bend before continuing to Las Vegas. Your tour ends on arrival but we’d forgive you for giving in to temptation and extending your stay in Sin City. (2B, L, D)

Tour Code: GANUAZ

N E VA DA

Monument Valley

Las Vegas Los Angeles

Lake Havasu

C A L I FO R N I A

San Diego

Grand Canyon N.P.

A R I ZO N A

Joshua Tree N.P.

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Multi-share hostel (1 nts), participation camping (5 nts)

5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Private air con vehicle

SOUTHWEST HIGHLIGHTS PRICE FR $1,440

DURATION 7 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Any age GROUP LEADER: Guide, driver

ROUTE LAS VEGAS - LAS VEGAS

GROUP SIZE: Max 14 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Navajo-led 4WD tour of Monument Valley, Grand Canyon sunset viewing, hikes in Zion N.P., Bryce Canyon N.P., Arches N.P., Canyonlands N.P., Grand Canyon N.P.

- WE LOVE SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-2 Las Vegas / Zion N.P. / Bryce Canyon N.P.

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

08 12 17 21 05 02 06 11 22 31 12 13 18 26 20 27

LOCAL PAYMENT: Camping: USD $80 for all meals Hotels: USD $50 for picnic-style lunches

DAY 5 Monument Valley

Setting off from Sin City, make for Zion National Park where towering sandstone cliffs ascend towards brilliant blue skies. Challenge yourself to what’s considered the best hike in the Southwest before enjoying a barbecue dinner. Day 2 and it’s on to the unique spire-studded landscape of Bryce Canyon. A soak in an outdoor hot tub will ease those hiking muscles.

DAYS 3-4 Arches N.P. / Canyonlands N.P. Taking its name from the 2,000 natural sandstone arches that grace its rust-hued landscape, Arches National Park awaits on Day 3. Hike to Delicate Arch before continuing your explorations in Canyonlands National Park on Day 4.

Journey to Monument Valley, one of America’s most iconic sights and the backdrop to many a western movie. Jump in a 4WD for a Navajo-guided tour, getting a real insight into the culture of this region. Tonight, camp out in the wilderness and stargaze until you go dizzy.

DAYS 6-7 Grand Canyon N.P. / Las Vegas Saving the best for last, follow the mighty Colorado River through the Painted Desert to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon. Hike around the rim or get a bird’s-eye view with an optional helicopter ride before a final cook-out and campfire. Return to Las Vegas on Day 7 via historic Route 66.

Tour Code: LAS7DS

U TA H

N E VA DA

Canyonlands N.P.

Arches N.P.

Bryce Canyon N.P. Zion N.P.

Las Vegas

Monument Valley Grand Canyon N.P. A R I ZO N A

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share camping (6 nts). Hotel option available

Local food kitty payable locally

Fully customised touring vehicle

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

181

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Native Grill Food Truck breakfast, Grand Canyon sunset, Horseshoe Bend hike, Fremont Street experience, visits to Joshua Tree N.P., Grand Canyon N.P., Mission Beach, Gaslamp Quarter District & Route 66

LA TO THE BAY EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 11 DAYS

ROUTE LOS ANGELES - SAN FRANCISCO

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

PRICE FR $2,025

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: Discoverer AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 54, Avg 45 Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

20 10 09 06 04 08 06 03 07 12 09 14 18 08 01 27 17 13 11 15 13 10 26 26 16 28 25 15 08 20 18 22 20 17 25 29 27 24

HIGHLIGHTS

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Mexican feast in San Diego • Grand Canyon South Rim hike • Route 66 drive • Las Vegas sightseeing tour • Visits to Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego, Sonoran Desert, Mission Beach, Seligman & Fremont St.

SPECIAL STAY

MEXICAN FEAST

SEDONA JEEP TOUR

Stay at a mountain lodge overlooking Bass Lake, surrounded by pine trees.

Tuck into some of the tastiest tacos north of the border in San Diego.

Add on the optional Red Rock Jeep Tour to explore this red landscape.

DAYS 1-3 Los Angeles / San Diego Three states, 11 days, one damn fine vacay. Start living the American Dream as soon as you land in LA. Cruise down the city’s hottest shopping street, Melrose Avenue, snap a selfie with the Hollywood sign or just chill with the beach bums of Santa Monica. When the sun sets, head straight to Sunset Strip for buzzing bars, clubs and live music venues. On Day 2, join the rest of your travel crew and hit the road. Driving down the Pacific Coast, you’ll find yourself in San Diego. Check out the Gaslamp Quarter and view the city from Coronado Bridge. Day 3 is yours to discover the 70 miles of beautiful beaches and world-famous attractions on offer. End the day with an included Mexican feast. (2D)

DAYS 4-6 Phoenix / Grand Canyon Swap endless stretches of golden sand for the cactus-dotted landscape of the Soronan Desert as you head to Phoenix. Arizona’s capital is all about year-round sunshine, outdoor activities and delicious Southwestern food. It’s farewell Phoenix and hello Grand Canyon on Day 5. Spanning 4,926 square kilometres, this UNESCO-listed natural wonder will have your jaw on the floor. Hike along the southern rim or take an optional helicopter flight for a bird’s-eye view. (2B)

DAYS 7-9 Las Vegas / Bass Lake Today, follow the legendary Route 66 towards the blinking lights of Las Vegas. Feel like a VIP as you tour the Strip and get a glimpse of the famous hotels and casinos. You have the whole of Day 8 to check out Sin City’s flashiest hotspots, work on your tan poolside or catch a top-name show. Leaving this 24-hour party town behind, it’s time to get back to nature. Continue through the Mojave Desert, past iconic Joshua trees, towards the wild adventureland of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Your picturesque accommodation is on the shores of Bass Lake, within touching distance of Yosemite National Park. (2B, D)

WINTER OPTION Travelling Mar-Dec? Spend Days 9-11 in Lake Tahoe instead of Yosemite, and end in San Fran on Day 12. Check out the prices below.

LIKE THAT? TRY THIS... Go in Winter Winter LA to the Bay (12 days, Los Angeles - San Francisco via Lake Tahoe) (COWWLA) Fr $2,025 Extend your trip Wild Western (14 days, Los Angeles - San Francisco) (COWWAW/COWWIN) Fr $2,535

DAYS 10-11 Bass Lake / Yosemite National Park / San Francisco Discover the raw beauty of Yosemite on Day 10. This park is brimming with mountains, waterfalls, wildflowers and famous rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome. Hike to viewpoints or see the valley from a bicycle seat. Back at your Bass Lake base, try watersports or simply relax in the jacuzzi. It’s time to wake up as your American dream comes to an end on Day 11. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco where tour finishes on arrival. Sticking around? Conquer the city’s steep hills by cable car and check out its hippy neighbourhoods. (B, D)

Tour Code: COWWAF/COWWLA

San Francisco

N E VA DA U TA H

Yosemite N.P. Bass Lake

Los Angeles C A L I FO R N I A

San Diego

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (6 nts), twin-share lodge (2 nts), Special Stay at Bass Lake (2 nts)

5 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Modern, air con coach with power points for charging

182

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Las Vegas Mojave Desert

Route 66 Grand Canyon Sedona A R I ZO N A

Phoenix Sonoran Desert

hiking and walking excursions

USA ROAD TRIP: LOS ANGELES TO SEATTLE PRICE FR $2,799

TRIP STYLE: 18-to-Thirtysomethings AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-39s

ROUTE LOS ANGELES - SEATTLE

DURATION 21 DAYS

GROUP LEADER: 1 or 2 Chief Experience

Officers (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 22, Avg16

LES APP

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE (18-39s)

DAYS 1-5 Los Angeles / San Diego / Lake Havasu City / Grand Canyon

DAYS 12-16 Glenwood Springs / Flaming Gorge / Jackson / Yellowstone N.P.

The first five days mix cities with nature. Think vibrant neighbourhoods that back onto golden beaches in LA, mouth-watering Mexican food in surfer-clad San Diego, desert hikes in Joshua Tree National Park and endless photo opportunities at the Grand Canyon. (3B, 2L, 3D)

Colorado calls on Day 12. Travel to Glenwood Springs, then continue on to Flaming Gorge for a fiery sunset. Like line dancing and cowboy bars? Jackson is just the ticket! Day 15 brings a double dose of national parks, with Grand Teton paving the way for Yellowstone. (5B, 5L, 3D)

DAYS 6-11 Monument Valley / Las Vegas / Zion N.P. / Bryce Canyon / Moab / Arches N.P.

DAYS 17-21 Bozeman / Glacier National Park / Coeur d’Alene / Seattle

Start with breakfast at the G for Good Native Grill food truck before driving through Monument Valley. Cue scene change, and you’re knee-deep in feathers, Shania Twain fans and Tina Turner drag acts. It can only be Vegas! After a free day in Sin City, tick off three national parks Zion, Bryce Canyon and Arches. (4B, 3L, 2D)

After a night in the university town of Bozeman, get back to nature in Glacier National Park. Spend a day exploring its glaciers, lakes and streams, then go west to Seattle via Coeur d’Alene. The trip ends on Day 21. (4B, 4L, 2D)

Seattle

M O N TA N A

Bozeman

TRANSPORT

16 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 10 dinners

Air con private vehicle

Yellowstone N.P.

I DA H O

Jackson WYOMING

C A L I FO R N I A

Flaming Gorge N E VA DA

Los Angeles INCLUDED MEALS

Dec

Glacier N.P.

San Diego

Glenwood Springs

UTAH

Moab

Zion N.P.

Hotels/hostels (4 nts), participation camping (16 nts)

Nov

01 08 15 22 29

Coeur d’Alene

Las Vegas

ACCOMMODATION

Oct

04 11 18 25

Sep

06 13 20 27

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $659

Tour Code: GANUAS

02 09 16 23 30

Aug

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

, LY

Jul

Jun

May

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

DEPARTURES 2020:

COLORADO

Monument Valley Grand Canyon Lake Havasu ARIZONA

TRIP STYLE: Classic

NATIONAL PARKS OF THE NORTHWEST US

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)

PRICE FR $3,699

DURATION 15 DAYS

ROUTE SEATTLE - SEATTLE

GROUP SIZE: Max 14, Avg 12 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visits to Mt. Rainier N.P., Coeur d’Alene, Glacier N.P., Yellowstone N.P., Grand Teton N.P., Craters of the Moon National Monument, Crater Lake N.P.

GE 10

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

04 01 12 18 15 29

ILI

E PA

ELIGIB T

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-5 Seattle / Mount Rainier N.P. / Wallace / Glacier N.P. Arrive in Seattle at any time and get ‘seattled’ in. Check out Pike Place Market before meeting your group tonight. Day 2 takes you to Mt. Rainier National Park, where you can go hiking, biking and horse riding. Next, head to Wallace via the lakeside city of Coeur d’Alene, and continue on to Montana for two nights of camping in Big Sky Country. Day 5 is yours to explore Glacier National Park’s lakes, streams and, well, glaciers. (B, L, 2D)

DAYS 6-8 Bozeman / Yellowstone N.P. Travel south to the university town of Bozeman before heading to Yellowstone, where you’ll see the Old Faithful geyser, resident grizzly bears and waterfalls. (2B, 3L, 2D)

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,779

DAYS 9-11 Jackson / Boise / Bend Take a scenic drive through Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks to the cowboy town of Jackson Hole. On Day 10, stop at Craters of the Moon National Monument, an otherworldly natural landscape, en route to Boise. Continue to Bend - consistently voted one of the best places to live in the US - and the stunning volcanic caldera of Crater Lake National Park. (B)

DAYS 12-15 Eugene / Portland / Seattle Meet Eugene (a college town, not a person), then get a taste of foodie favourite, Portland. Here you’ll find craft breweries, strong coffee and a flourishing food cart scene. Return to Seattle where your trip ends on Day 15.

Tour Code: GANUSS

Glacier N.P.

WASHINGTON

Seattle

Wallace M O N TA N A

Mt. Rainier N.P. Bozeman

Portland O REGO N

Eugene

Bend

IDAHO

Yellowstone N.P. Boise

Crater Lake N.P.

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotel (9 nts), hotel with shared facilities (1 nt), participation camping (4 nts)

4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Private air con vehicle

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

WYOMING

Jackson Hole

183

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Native Grill food truck lunch, Grand Canyon sunset, visits to Zion N.P., Bryce Canyon N.P., Arches N.P., Grand Teton N.P. Yellowstone N.P. & Glacier N.P.

HIGHLIGHTS OF HAWAII - MAUI & BIG ISLAND ROUTE KAHULUI - KAILUA-KONA

DURATION 8 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 13, Avg 10 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Luau, Volcanoes National Park excursion, visit to Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

GE 10

E PA

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-4 Kahului / Hilo Button up your best Hawaiian shirt as you arrive in Kahului on Maui. The next day, travel the famous Road to Hana, stopping by a tropical farm, black-sand beaches and waterfalls along the way. Day 3 and it’s time to hit the beach. Opt to go snorkelling, surfing or whale watching (seasonal) - just make sure you save plenty of energy for tonight’s luau. Grab a lei and get into the aloha spirit! On Day 4, fly to the island of Hawaii (aka the Big Island) and transfer to Hilo where you’ll have some free time to explore. Outdoorsy type? Make the most of the hiking opportunities in Akaka Falls State Park. Culture vulture? Opt to visit the Lyman Museum. Foodie? Try local produce at the Hilo Farmers Market and sink a few beers at Mehana Brewing Company, Hawaii’s largest independent craft brewery - cheers to that! (D)

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

10 14 14 28 28

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,659

DAY 5-8 Hawaii Volcanoes N.P. / Hilo / Pu’uhonua o Honaunau / Kailua-Kona Travel to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea. Discover the park’s lava lakes and tubes, and watch as steaming lava flows into the ocean. There are many short and long hikes in the park to keep you busy, plus the Jaggar Museum which is devoted to volcanology (one for the geography geeks). On Day 6, travel to the town of Kailua-Kona, stopping at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park en route. This was an important site in ancient Hawaiian society, and today you’ll find a temple that held the bones of past chiefs, and many carved wooden statues. Depart at any time on Day 8.

H AWAII

Kahului

Kailua-Kona

Tour Code: GANUMB

Hilo

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels (7 nts)

1 dinner

Private vehicle, plane

ALASKA, KENAI & DENALI ADVENTURE PRICE FR $2,349

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

14 12 16 13

ILI

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

ELIGIB

DURATION 8 DAYS

ROUTE ANCHORAGE - ANCHORAGE

Volcanoes N.P.

TRIP STYLE: Classic AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) GROUP SIZE: Max 13, Avg 9 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Road trip along the Seward Highway, hike to Exit Glacier & Harding Icefield, Denali N.P. dogsled demo, Eielson Visitor Center excursion

ILI

LES APP

, LY

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

DAYS 1-3 Anchorage / Seward

DAYS 5-6 Talkeetna / Denali National Park

Arrive at any time in Anchorage and tuck in to a fresh seafood dinner. The following morning you explore the Kenai Fjords, so slip on your hiking boots and check out the crackling ice of the Exit Glacier and Harding Icefield. You’re free as a seabird on Day 3 to further explore Seward’s stunning surrounds. Opt to visit the SeaLife Centre or cruise the fjords and try to spot orcas. (B, L)

Enjoy a dogsledding demo and an optional hike in Denali National Park before taking a full day’s excursion deep into the forest. Keep an eye out for bears, wolves, moose, caribou and sheep... but mainly bears. Bus over to Eielson Visitor Centre on a full-day excursion and take in all the luscious flora, fauna and towering mountains. (L)

DAY 4 Seward / Talkeetna Travel to playful town of Talkeetna and enjoy a free afternoon of jet boating, learning about the diverse flora and fauna, perusing the plentiful gift shops or sampling the local microbrewery beer. Or, why not even choose to take a scenic flight over the area? (B)

Denali N.P.

DAYS 7-8 Denali National Park / Anchorage This morning is yours to do a bit more walking or, if you’re feeling brave, get a whoosh of adrenalin with a spot of white water rafting. Then say farewell to the tundra and travel back to Anchorage. The tour ends any time on Day 8, but why not stick around?

Tour Code: GANUKD

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Basic hotels/motels (5 nts), cabins with shared facilities (2 nts)

2 breakfasts, 2 lunches

Air con private vehicle, shuttle bus

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details. MY OWN ROOM: Fr $1,599

Talkeetna A L A S K A

Anchorage

Seward

184

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

06 04 01 05 13 11 08 20 18 15

E PA

ELIGIB

GE 10

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

PRICE FR $2,849

TRIP STYLE: Classic

NEW YORK THE BIG APP LE

THE WOLCOTT HOTEL, MIDTOWN

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

New York, where to start? The cutting-edge city where trends are set, skyscrapers conquer and late nights are standard. Delve deep into the artsy district of the Lower East Side, check out SoHo’s hip boutiques and get to the roots of Hell’s Kitchen’s devilish charm with a bar crawl. Wolf down a deli sandwich in a diner, rub shoulders with the rich and famous in West Village and take in the many personalities that modern-day New York City has to offer.

- TOP SELLER -

ROCK SOLID

CLASS ACT

$124 $62

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

THE HUDSON, CENTRAL PARK

$255 $128

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Located in the city’s Nomad district, just two blocks

LOCATION: Just a four-minute walk from Columbus Circle, right by

from the iconic Empire State Building and close to Koreatown.

Central Park. The subway is just a couple of minutes away.

VIBE: Classical hotel housed in a turn-of-the-century, beaux-arts

VIBE: Upscale hotel designed by Phillipe Starck. Trendy rooms

style building. All 176 rooms are tastefully decorated throughout.

have wood-panelled walls, designer toiletries and iPod docks.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Satellite

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Suites • Air con • Flatscreen TV •

TV • Gym • Library • Luggage storage • Laundry • 24-hour reception

iPod docks • Terrace • 3 bars • Restaurant • Rooftop lounge • Pool table • 24-hour gym • Laundry • Library

TRYP BY WYNDAM TIMES SQUARE SOUTH, MIDTOWN

NYCWOL

EHNYC1

CLASS ACT

A-LIST

$204 $103

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

50 BOWERY, CHINATOWN

$219 $110

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: In the entertainment district within a five-minute walk of

LOCATION: Located on Bowery, Manhattan’s oldest street. A five-

Madison Square Garden and a three-minute walk to Penn Station.

minute walk from major subway lines.

VIBE: Classy hotel with frills for sure. Take advantage of fantastic

VIBE: Expect luxe linens, rain showers and bright art at this

amenities such as a unique social hub and rooftop terrace.

boutique hotel. Check out the city views from the rooftop bar.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Flatscreen TV • iPod

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Suites • Air con • In-room safe •

docks • Coffee maker • Rooftop • Cafe • Bar/Restaurant • Gym • Laundry • Bathrobes • 24-hour reception

Year-round rooftop bar • Restaurant • Lounge • Room service • Gym • Art gallery • Laundry • 24-hour reception

NYCTRP

15% DISCOUNT: 25JUN20-07SEP20, BOOK BY 31MAR20 (MIN STAY 3 NIGHTS); 20% DISCOUNT: 25JUN20-07SEP20, BOOK BY 31MAR20 (MIN STAY 4 NIGHTS)

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

NYCFBO

185

LAS VEGAS WHAT HAP PEN S IN VEG AS.. .

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

It’s Vegas, baby! Welcome to the only place on Earth where you’ll find the whole world in one place. See the Statue of Liberty, ride a gondola in Venice, climb the Eiffel Tower and play blackjack in Monte Carlo. Join the party - days and nights roll into one here. And who’d have thought such a surreal adult playground could possibly border one of nature’s equally surreal landscapes? Grand Canyon National Park lies on its doorstep, and it’s not to be missed.

- TOP SELLER -

ROCK SOLID

CLASS ACT

NEW YORK NEW YORK

$82 $41

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

MGM GRAND

$93 $47

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Right on the famous Strip in between the Monte Carlo

and Excalibur, only ten minutes from McCarran Airport.

LOCATION: Situated on the south end of the Strip across from

the Tropicana and close to Planet Hollywood.

VIBE: Big Apple-themed casino hotel with skyscrapers and an

adrenalin-freeing rollercoaster.

VIBE: Huge casino resort identifiable by its signature bronze lion

statues. It’s grand alright - you’ll find perks galore throughout.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms and suites • 9 bars • 11 restaurants

• Spa • Casino • Rollercoaster • Evening entertainment • Outdoor pool • Hot tubs • Private cabanas • Spa • Gym

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms and suites • Air con • 4 outdoor

pools • Lazy river • 5 bars • 18 restaurants • Spa • Nightclubs • Casino • Gym • 4 golf courses • 24-hour reception

EHLAS1

THLAS6

LAS VEGAS NIGHT STRIP FR$84 HALF DAY HELICOPTER 2-4-1

GOLDEN EAGLE GRAND CANYONFR$324 HALF DAY HELICOPTER FLIGHT

See the lights of ‘Vegas, baby’ on this short but sweet helicopter flight. After your VIP hotel pick-up, your journey over the famous Las Vegas Strip takes you past the historic downtown area and the supertall Stratosphere Tower to billion-dollar resorts. Plus, book with STA Travel and take a friend for free. Jackpot!

Take to the skies in your luxurious helicopter with wrap around windows offering 180-degree bird’s-eye views. See the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam and the stunning Lake Mead, situated on the Colorado River. Hotel transfers to and from the helipad are included and the helicopter ride will last approximately 70 minutes.

LAS5S1

LASEH1

A-LIST

$199 $100

BELLAGIO

SINGLE

TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Right across the street from

Paris Las Vegas and next to Caesars Palace. VIBE: It’s the Bellagio baby! Check out its

man-made lake and iconic dancing fountains. HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms & suites •

Outdoor pools • 6 bars • 18 restaurants • Cirque du Soleil performances • Art gallery THLAS7

186

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

Parks

NATIONAL

ZION Objectively beautiful, with cascading waterfalls, lush forests and high cliffs. Best seen in spring (for flowers) or autumn (for colours).

G R A N D C A N YO N A place that probably needs little introduction. Explore by foot, by raft, by horseback or even by helicopter.

B RYC E C A N YO N A weird landscape of tall, precarious hoodoos. A hiker’s heaven and a dream at sunset or sunrise. And, in fact, not a canyon at all!

National Parks Express route Add-on stops

Y E LLOW S TON E The world’s first national park, and still setting the standard with rumbling volcanoes, hot springs, mud pots, forests and bear jams.

UTAH BRYCE CANYON

NEVADA

ZION

YELLOWSTONE

LAKE POWELL

WYOMING

ST. GEORGE

DEATH VALLEY

CALIFORNIA

KANAB

PAGE / ANTELOPE CANYON

LAS VEGAS

GRAND CANYON

GRAND CANYON WEST

WILLIAMS LOS ANGELES

ARIZONA

$494

NATI ONA L PA R KS E XP R E SS

LA K E POW E LL A man-made reservoir that gives the au naturel parks a run for their money. Best experienced from the water, by boat or jet ski.

This bus route is the perfect way to get around the national parks of the west coast, especially if you’re not driving! Check out the route in blue on the map above, and get planning your park-hopping.

YOUR BUS PASS Get unlimited transport for 12 days between Vegas, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Page, Williams, Tusayan, St. George and Kanab. Travel in one general direction with unlimited stops. You only get to travel on each segment once, so it might be a good idea to plan a rough itinerary before you start.

Create your own itinerary. What you do along the way is up to you - ask your Travel Expert about what you could do and see at each stop. IMPORTANT! Remember to reserve each journey at least 24 hours in advance, using your online National Park Express account. Tour Code: NPECEP

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

187

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

DE AT H VA LLE Y With places called Stovepipe Wells and Furnace Creek, it’s no surprise that this is the hottest place on Earth. It’s also among the most iconic.

LOS ANGELES CITY OF STA RS.

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

LA, Tinseltown, La La Land... this happily crazy city of high-earning celebs, struggling scriptwriters, uptight poodles and hang-loose surfers deserves a few aliases! For a city of billionaires and dreamers, LA is wonderfully down to earth and takes the stereotypes firmly on the chin. Just about everywhere has cult-status, so cruise the Walk of Fame, see a game at the Bowl, star-spot in the Hills, peoplewatch in Venice and surf in Malibu as the sun goes down.

- TOP SELLER SHOESTRING

BANANA BUNGALOW, HOLLYWOOD

$44 $78

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

GLAMPACKER

FOUND SANTA MONICA

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

$68 $103

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Centrally located among Hollywood’s restaurants,

LOCATION: Within the city line of Santa Monica, you get the best

museums and bars. Perfect for all keen LA sightseers.

of both Los Angeles and Santa Monica.

VIBE: This tiki-inspired hostel is a cool, kooky and budget-friendly

VIBE: This place is run by people who love the city, meaning you

retreat, offering plenty of events and activities for travellers.

can get plenty of heard-it-from-a-local tips.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed dorms • Private rooms • Air con • Lockers •

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Mixed dorms • Air con • Flatscreen

Terrace • Basketball court • Games room • Karaoke • Event nights • • Luggage storage • Laundry • Free on-site parking (limited)

TV • Pizzeria • Coffee shop • Lounge • Shared kitchen • Daily housekeeping • Luggage storage • Bikes rental

LAXBBH

15% OFF: 01JAN20-31DEC20

LAXFND

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

$113

FULL DAY

A-LIST

MILLENNIUM BILTMORE, DOWNTOWN

$243 $122

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

LOCATION: Set in a historic building in downtown Los Angeles,

only a four-minute walk from Pershing Square Subway Station. VIBE: The epitome of Hollywood glamour, lavishly decorated with

crystal chandeliers, marble fountains and embroidered tapestries. HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • In-room safe • Smart TV •

Indoor pool • Bar • 4 restaurants • Coffee lounge • Sauna • Steam room • Gym • Concierge LAXMILL

188

Go behind the scenes of a real working movie studio. This is the world’s largest and busiest motion picture and TV studio, and more movies and television shows have been filmed on this lot than on any other lot on Earth! There are also themepark rides, shows, plus Los Angeles’ best shops, restaurants and cinemas at CityWalk.

INCLUSIONS

Departs: Daily Meals: Not included Transport: Not included Tour Code: LAXUNS

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

SAN FRANCISCO WEA R FLO WER S IN YOU R HAI R.

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

Winding streets, parades of colourful, flamboyant Franciscans, more than the odd bit of fog and the 49ers - you’re in San Francisco and you need some flowers in your hair. Tuck into San Fran lobster at Fisherman’s Wharf, soak up the never-ending buzz of Union Square and meander along twisting Lombard Street. And don’t forget infamous Alcatraz where apparently it’s possible to swim to shore if you grease yourself up with lard. Any takers?

- TOP SELLER GLAMPACKER

ROCK SOLID

COVA HOTEL, TENDERLOIN

$218 $109

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

FOUND HOTEL, UNION SQUARE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

$69 $105

FR FR

DORM TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: In downtown San Francisco, with a free shuttle

LOCATION: A short walk to Union Square, one of the city’s most

service to Union Square, Moscone Centre and Fisherman’s Wharf.

popular shopping and foodie destinations.

VIBE: A modern hotel that covers all the basics, with a sleek

VIBE: An apt pick for budget digs with a stylish edge. Daily

design, cool rooftop terrace and vegan-friendly snack bar.

activities and common areas bringing the social vibes!

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • In-room safe • Rooftop bar • Happy

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Mixed dorms • Air con • Shared

hour • Luggage storage • Gym • Complimentary wine reception • On-site parking available (at extra cost)

living room • 2 bars/lounges • Self-serve laundry • Luggage storage • 24 hour reception

SFOCVA

10% DISCOUNT: 16OCT20-31MAR21, BOOK BY 31AUG20

RED WOODS & WINE COUNTRY ESCAPE

$124

FULL DAY

SFOFND

TOTAL YOSEMITE EXPERIENCE FR$168 FULL DAY & GIANT SEQUOIAS

2 DAY HOP-ON HOP-OFF INCLUDING ALCATRAZ

$150

FULL DAY

California’s famous wine country lies less than an hour away from San Fran. Pop by the redwood sequoia trees at Muir Woods before visiting three family-run Sonoma and Napa Valley wineries. Enjoy an insightful tour and a complimentary tasting session at each before ending the day at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge (weather permitting).

Explore Yosemite’s best bits, including El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridal Veil Falls and Inspiration Point (aka Tunnel View). Walk among the giant sequoia trees (weather permitting), keep your eyes peeled for black bears, deer, beavers and birds, and enjoy the sunset on your return to San Francisco. Overnight option available.

Explore the infamous prison cells of Alcatraz with a self-guided audio tour. As well as return ferry trips, the package includes four San Fran sightseeing loops; Official City Tour, Sausalito Tour, Parks and Beach Tour and the San Francisco Night Tour. Alcatraz trips sell out quickly, so make sure you book a specific date in advance.

SFOEXT

SFOYMT

SFOALA

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

189

MIAMI WELCOM E TO MIA MI

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

Hip, hot and happening, that’s Miami. Everyone knows the white sand and wild reputation of South Beach (or SoBe, if you’re cool) but what else has this sultry city got to offer? Picture sexy yachts, Cuban cuisine in Little Havana and clubbing until the sun joins the party. See quirky street art and visit local breweries in Wynwood, explore the eclectic Art Deco district, hit up the lively South Beach nightlife and wander the exotic Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.

SHOESTRING

BEDS N’ DRINKS, ART DECO DISTRICT

$34

DORM

ROCK SOLID

OCEAN FIVE HOTEL, OCEAN DRIVE

$169 $85

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: In the heart of the Art Deco district, two blocks from

LOCATION: Just a three-minute walk from the beach, on the calmer

the beach and close to Lincoln Road.

end of Ocean Drive in the historic Art Deco District of Miami.

VIBE: A fun-loving backpacker’s haven with a sociable vibe. Make

VIBE: Comfortable rooms with modern decor, and right in the

new friends with movie nights and happy hour.

action with shopping and South Beach nightlife minutes away.

HIGHLIGHTS: Mixed & female-only dorms • Private rooms • Air

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con • Satellite TV • iPod docking

con • Personal lockers • Garden • Sun terrace • Shared kitchen • Lounge area • Luggage storage • 24-hour reception

station • Bar • Restaurant • Terrace • On-site ATM • Bike tours (at extra cost) • Lift • 24-hour reception

MIABED

MIAOFH

ROCK SOLID

ALBION SOUTH BEACH

$141 $71

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

CLASS ACT

WASHINGTON PARK HOTEL, SOUTH BEACH

$166 $83

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

A-LIST

THE REDBURY SOUTH BEACH

$253 $127

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

INCLUDES BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Just a block away from the

LOCATION: In South Beach, just five

LOCATION: Right in the heart of Miami

beach and the shops on Lincoln Road.

minutes from Miami Beach Boardwalk.

Beach, on Collins Avenue.

VIBE: An Art Deco hotel with 1930s ocean

VIBE: Respectfully renovated Art Deco

VIBE: Trendy hotel with 69 slick, bohemian

liner-inspired architecture and a new pool.

hotel with chic, retro rooms and suites.

rooms and a glamorous rooftop pool.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms & suites

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • In-room

• Air con • In-room safe • iPod docking station • Outdoor pool • Café • Gym

• Outdoor pool • Bar • Restaurant • Terrace • Gym • Bike rental • Free hot yoga classes

record player • Rooftop pool • Bar • Restaurant • Free airport shuttle

THMIA3

190

THMIA2

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

EXMIA2

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC & BAHAMAS MER ENG UE & SWI MM ING PIGS

CLASS ACT FR$135 OCCIDENTAL PUNTA CANA, PUNTA CANA FR$80

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ALL INCLUSIVE

CLASS ACT

PUNTA CANA PRINCESS, PUNTA CANA

$180 $91

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

Blissed-out beaches, rum cocktails, year-round sunshine and pirate legends. Both serve up Caribbean clichés in abundance, but that’s where the similarities end. The Dom Rep offers some of the cheapest Caribbean holidays, while the flashy Bahamas are awash with high-end hotels and mega yachts. Beyond the resort walls you’ll find colonial architecture, all-night merengue and jungle-fringed swimming holes in the Dominican, and pink sand and swimming pigs(!) in the Bahamas.

A-LIST

BE LIVE COLLECTION

$111 $84

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ROOM ONLY

ALL INCLUSIVE

LOCATION: Right on Cortesito Beach, a

LOCATION: Beachfront location on Bavarro

LOCATION: Set on Atlantic Beach in Cabeza

25-minute drive from the airport.

Beach in the beautiful Punta Cana region.

de Toro town in the Punta Cana region.

VIBE: With three pools, 11 restaurants and

VIBE: Luxury, comfort and an endless

VIBE: Luxury holiday spot where you can

beach access, you may never want to leave!

supply of activities in this slice of paradise.

relax but also go wild with water sports!

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms & suites • Air

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con •

con • Private balcony • 3 pools • 10 bars • 11 restaurants • Gym • Spa • Tennis courts

Flatscreen TV • Private beach • Outdoor pool • 9 bars • 9 restaurants • Casino

Flatscreen TV • Private beach • 9 pools • Bar • Spa • Nightly shows • Casino

EHPUC2

EHDOM3

THDOM1

A-LIST

ROCK SOLID

A-LIST

FR$190 GRAND PALLADIUM BAVARO SUITES RESORT & SPA FR$113

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

VIVA WYNDHAM FORTUNA RESORT

$182 $121

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

WARWICK PARADISE ISLAND BAHAMAS

$261 $174

FR FR

SINGLE TWIN/ DOUBLE

ALL INCLUSIVE

LOCATION: Set in Punta Cana on the east

LOCATION: Set on a private strip of beach

LOCATION: On the island’s south shore, a

coast in the Quisqueya province.

just 20 minutes from downtown Freeport.

short distance from Cabbage Beach.

VIBE: Relax on the sandy beach before

VIBE: Enjoy sophisticated and modern

VIBE: Offering spacious rooms and a huge

moving on to the swim up pool bar -bliss!

rooms facing the Caribbean Sea.

sea terrace overlooking Nassau Harbour.

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con •

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air

HIGHLIGHTS: Private rooms • Air con •

Flatscreen TV • Beachfront • 4 outdoor pools • 22 bars • 8 restaurants • Casino

con • Private beach • Outdoor pools • Restaurants • Gym • Oceanfront trapeze

In-room safe • Terrace • Garden • Bar • Restaurant • Pool • Spa • Gym

THMIA3

THBAH1

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

EXBAH3

191

CANADA & THE ROCKIES EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DURATION 11 DAYS

ROUTE VANCOUVER - VANCOUVER

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

PRICE FR $2,415

NEED TO KNOWS TRIP STYLE: In-Depth Explorer

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager, driver GROUP SIZE: Max 54, Avg 45

LAKE LOUISE

This pretty mountain chalet in Banff will be your home for two nights.

Ice, ice baby! Step onto the glittering surface of the Athabasca Glacier.

This jewel-like lake gets its turquoise hue from glacier melt water.

DAYS 1-3 Vancouver / Whistler / Kamloops Not many cities can balance big city living with the great outdoors, but Vancouver - with its skyscrapers, beaches, forests and mountains - does it perfectly. Meet your group here, then wind along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler, home of the 2010 Winter Olympics. On Day 2, it’s your very own playground with optional activities like ziplining, mountain biking and white water rafting. If adventure sports don’t float your boat, why not hike one of the many trails or meander the local art galleries? Photo opportunities of Canada’s mountains and lakes are everywhere on the way to Kamloops on Day 3. The scenic drive takes you through the Lillooet Mountain Range, with fantastic views of the Lillooet, Duffy and Kamloops lakes. (2B, 2D)

DAYS 4-7 Jasper N.P. / Banff N.P. The drive along the Yellowhead Highway takes you into the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Stop for a picnic at the base of Mt. Robson, then continue on to Jasper. On Day 5, visit Maligne Canyon, the deepest and longest limestone canyon in the Rockies, as well as the mirror-like Maligne Lake. Following the Columbia Icefield Parkway, roll right onto the Athabasca Glacier in a custom-designed Ice Explorer vehicle and snap a selfie with Peyto Lake. Yes, it really is that blue! You’ll also see Lake Louise, overlooked by its château-style hotel, en route to your cosy chalet in Banff. There’s loads to do on Day 7, but, as you’re in cowboy country, horse riding should be at the top of the list. Neigh? How about a scenic helicopter tour? Round off the day with a fire-cooked meal. (2B, L, D)

Dec

Nov

Jul

05 12 19 26

Jun

09 13 01 01 16 27 03 08 30 04 15 11 22 18 29 25

Oct

May

Apr

Mar

Sep

COLUMBIA ICEFIELD

Aug

SPECIAL STAY

Feb

DEPARTURES 2020: Jan

HIGHLIGHTS

AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES • Hiking in Whistler • Picnic in the Rocky Mountains • Athabasca Glacier Ice Explorer experience • Special Stay in a Rocky Mountain chalet • Entry to five national parks • Visits to Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon, Peyto Lake, Lake Louise & Stanley Park

DAYS 8-11 Yoho N.P. / Glacier N.P. / Mt. Revelstoke N.P. / Vernon / Vancouver Today’s travels take you through three national parks - Yoho, Glacier and Mt. Revelstoke. Along the way, see the famous Roger’s Pass, Kicking Horse Valley and the Spiral Train Tunnel. Nestled in the heart of Canada’s wine country, Vernon is your next stop. It’s back to where you started on Day 9 as you journey through the Okanagan Valley to Vancouver. See Gastown, Chinatown and Lion’s Gate Bridge or visit the totem poles of Canada’s First Nations people in Stanley Park, a beautiful rainforest area right on the edge of downtown. Next, get a feel for the young spirit of the city while exploring its hip shops and cafés. Insider tip: for some of the best coffee in Vancouver, Pallet Coffee Roasters, Aubade and Moving Coffee are all big-hitters. Spend your last evening with the group on an optional dinner cruise around the harbour before heading out for a night on the town. Your Canadian adventure ends Day 11. (3B, D)

A L B E RTA

Mt. Robson

Jasper Columbia Icefield

B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A

Lake Louise Banff

Tour Code: COCRCR

Kamloops Whistler

Vernon

Vancouver ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotel (8 nts), Special Stay in a Rocky Mountain chalet (2 nts)

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch 4 dinners

Air con coach with power points for charging

192

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

U SA

Calgary

(Stampede only)

DISCOVER THE CANADIAN ROCKIES EASTBOUND PRICE FR $4,199

ROUTE VANCOUVER - CALGARY

DURATION 12 DAYS

TRIP STYLE: National Geographic Journeys AGE GROUP: Min 12 GROUP LEADER: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides GROUP SIZE: Max 12, Avg 10

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020:

13 07 07 07 20 14 14 17 27 21 24 24

Additional dates are available. Please ask for details.

DAYS 1-3 Vancouver / Victoria

DAYS 7-9 Jasper N.P. / Lake Louise

Arrive at any time in Vancouver. Enjoy a stop at Stanley Park and Gastown before boarding a scenic ferry to Victoria, where you’ll take an orientation walk with your CEO. Day 3 is free for optional activities like whale watching or exploring Butchart Gardens. (2B)

Enjoy a river safari tour through Grizzly Bear Valley. Head to Jasper National Park and view the highest peak, Mt. Robson. In the evening, we have an included visit to Miette Hot Springs. Walk with an expert guide on the lower Athabasca Glacier to explore and understand the life of this active glacier. Continue to Lake Louise to view its emerald waters and Victoria Glacier. (3B)

DAYS 4-6 Whistler / Blue River Visit the G for Good Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre for a tour, a bannock tasting and to take part in a traditional tea ceremony with your Indigenous guide. Pass through Coastal Mountains into the Caribou Mountains and stop at Seton Lake and picturesque Kamloops Lake before arriving in the small community of Blue River. (3B, D)

MY OWN ROOM: Fr $2,439

A L B E RTA

DAYS 10-12 Banff / Calgary

Jasper N.P.

Continue to Banff and take a walk with an expert from the Whyte Museum, exploring the historical town of Banff. Then drive to Calgary for a short orientation walk and opt to visit museums. Depart at any time. (3B)

Blue River B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A

Banff

Calgary

Whistler

Tour Code: GANCRNG

Columbia Icefields Lake Louise

Vancouver Victoria

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Hotels/lodges (11 nts)

11 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Private vehicle, ferry, boat

POWDER RUSH PRICE FR $1,739

U SA

TRIP STYLE: Ski & Snowboard AGE GROUP: Exclusively for 18-35s

DURATION 9 DAYS

ROUTE VANCOUVER - CALGARY

GROUP LEADER: Trip Manager GROUP SIZE: Max 50, Avg 45 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Visit to the Capilano

Suspension Bridge

03 14 06 17 28 31

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec

Nov

Oct

Sep

Aug

Jul

Jun

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

DEPARTURES 2020/21:

04 01 12 05 11 15 26 29

EXCLUSIVELY FOR 18-35s

DAYS 1-2 Vancouver / Whistler

DAYS 5-9 Banff / Calgary

Spend your first day as you please, limber up with a little ice hockey or have a meander around Chinatown with your new travel squad. On Day 2, make headway towards the snowsports haven, Whistler. Make sure you hop on a snowmobile before dinner to get a real rush. (D)

Hop on a flight to Calgary and transfer to Banff, known for its incredible scenery and home to plenty of snow. Banff is a pretty jaw-dropping mountain destination with hassle-free access to beautiful wilderness areas, outdoor adventures and rich in history and culture. With three resorts to choose from - Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise or Sunshine - Banff is the perfect place to test out your skiing or snowboarding prowess. Spend the next couple of days dog sledding, mountain hiking, soaking in hot springs... this place has it all. On Day 9, take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain. If you start to smell eggs, you know a warm soak isn’t far! Before you depart, it’s the perfect end to an amazing trip. (4B, D)

DAYS 3-4 Whistler Time to get stuck into what you came here for - skiing! Crash down the snow and get that adrenalin pumping through your veins. Just a beginner? Not to worry! There are slopes for all abilities. Still, if downhill isn’t really your thing, there are also snowmobiles and ziplines to ride. Between ski sessions hit the spa for some R&R, sip on creamy hot chocolates and head off on bar crawls to blow off steam in the evening. (B, D)

Tour Code: COSKIR

A L B E RTA

B R I T I S H CO LU M B I A

Lake Louise Banff N.P.

Calgary

Whistler

Vancouver U SA

ACCOMMODATION

INCLUDED MEALS

TRANSPORT

Twin-share hotels (4 nts), Special Stay in a Rocky Mountain chalet (4 nts)

5 breakfasts, 3 dinners

Modern air con coach, plane

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

193

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: G for Good Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, orientation walks in Vancouver, Calgary, Victoria, Whistler & Banff, river safari, Columbia Icefields trip

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

MO O SE Travel Network Moose Travel Network is Canada's adventure bus system for young-at-heart backpackers. This is your ticket to the West’s pristine wilderness, home to bears and beavers. If you didn’t wild swim and sit around a campfire, did you really visit Canada?

PA SSES

HOW IT WORK S On the West Coast of Canada, Moose offer a great range of fixed itinerary trips on set departure dates. You can choose to do your selected route with or without included accommodation.

D O O R TO D O O R T R A N S P O R TAT I O N Get picked up and dropped off at the hostel of your choice.

PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS AND GUIDES The fun and professional guides will provide you with a unique perspective.

G O O F F T H E B E AT E N T R A C K Check out some amazing places that many bus companies wouldn’t dare to go.

ACCOMMODATED

BIG WEST

$1,085

$828

A classic summer pass for thrill-seekers, hitting up Whistler, Kelowna, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. START/ FINISH: Vancouver - Vancouver INCLUDES: National Park entry fees, transport, guide and paddleboarding DAYS: 10 MEALS: 4 breakfasts, 3 dinners DEPARTS: Tuesdays and Saturdays (May-Sep) TOUR CODE: YVRBIG/YVRBNT ACCOMMODATED

CARIBOU

$951

NON-ACCOMMODATED

$753

Want to see the best bits of the Canadian Rockies and BC? This one’s just the ticket. You’ll stop in Kelowna, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. START/ FINISH: Vancouver - Vancouver INCLUDES: National Park entry fees, transport, guide and paddleboarding DAYS: 8 MEALS: 4 breakfasts, 2 dinners DEPARTS: Mondays and Thursdays (Apr-Oct) TOUR CODE: YVRCAR/YVRBOU

DISCOUNTS

AL B ERTA

Take advantage of loads of discounts on activities and attractions along the way.

JASPER

A C C O M M O D AT I O N

RAMPART CREEK

Shared dorm accommodation is included in all accommodated tours. If you book a nonaccommodated tour, be sure to reserve your accommodation well ahead of time as you’ll need to make your own arrangements.

LAKE LOUISE

B RITIS H COLUMB IA

BANFF

WHISTLER

MEALS

KELOWNA

Many of the trips include some meals; each one will detail what’s included. The buses will make regular stops at local grocery stores along the way so you can stock up on supplies, and the trip leaders will often organise group meals.

VANCOUVER

WAS HINGTON

194

NON-ACCOMMODATED

VISIT STATRAVEL.COM

ROCKIES WINTER EXPLORER PRICE FR $454

DURATION 4 DAYS

AGE GROUP: Any age GROUP LEADER:

ROUTE VANCOUVER - VANCOUVER

Experienced tour guide

GROUP SIZE: Max 54 INCLUDED ACTIVITIES: Sledding/tobogganing at Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka, bonfire parties, nightclub entrance

NORTH AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

ACCOMMODATION: Hotels (3 nts) MEALS: 3 breakfasts DEPARTS: Selected Fridays (Jan-Apr) ESCORTED ADVENTURE

With over 2,000 kilometres across British Columbia and Alberta, you’ll really get a scope of what ‘many’ feels like when it comes to mountains. Leave Vancouver and settle into your first night in Golden with a good ol’ fashioned campfire. The next day, slide out of bed and then down the hills as you go sledding or tobogganing at Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka. Banff welcomes you into its snowy embrace and offers a whole host of activities (at extra cost) like soaking in hot springs and skiing before returning to Vancouver. Tour Code: YVRRWE

ROCKY MOUNTAINS CLASSIC TOUR

$630

4 DAYS

WHISTLER SKI & RIDE TRIP, WHISTLER

Zip up the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler which features two beast-like mountains with epic ski and snowboarding spread across 3,307 hectares - the largest in North America! There’s no need to ride the same run twice. When you’re recharging, take in the 90 plus restaurants and the Village’s winter wonderland. INCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS

Departs: 21Feb20, 31Mar20, 17Apr20 Accommodation: Hotel (2 nts) Meals: Not included Includes: Coach transportation, guided tour of Whistler, VIP bar night Note: Lift tickets are not included Tour Code: YVRWSR

Departs: Fridays Accommodation: Hotels (3 nts) Meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 dinner Includes: Cowboy Ranch Experience, tour guide, coach transport with on-board entertainment, all taxes and park fees Tour Code: YVRCLA

TOFINO CLASSIC TOUR

3 DAYS

ESCORTED ADVENTURE

Start in Vancouver and travel through the Okanagan Valley to the Rockies, stopping off at Revelstoke and Roger’s Pass en route to the always lovely Lake Louise and Banff. A Canadian tradition is roasting s’mores over a campfire, so prepare to get your hands gooey. Jasper National Park lies north, where you will tour the Columbia Icefields and visit Bow Lake on the way.

$310

$382

2 DAYS

TOFINO ULTIMATE CAMPING TOUR

$302

3 DAYS

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

A real intimate tour of the Tofino district, located on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. With highlights including a scenic ferry through the Strait of Georgia, a beachside marshmallow roast (weather permitting) and the Wild Pacific Trail, optional activities also abound with surfing, bear watching, whale watching and sea kayaking on offer.

Relax on this woodsy camping tour with plenty of time to truly appreciate the great outdoors. After setting up camp on the beach, check out Canada’s favourite surf town, Tofino. This serene village is home to many local artists and unique restaurants. Come and learn to surf the wild waves or you can have fun watching others do so!

INCLUSIONS

Departs: Saturdays Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt) Meals: Not included Includes: All transfers, Vancouver Island sightseeing, beach bonfire and marshmallow roast (weather dependent), tour guide Tour Code: YVRTCT

Departs: 03 & 17Jul20, 01, 14 & 30Aug20 Accommodation: Camping (2 nts) Meals: Not included Includes: Ferry cruise, guided sightseeing in Tofino & Pacific Rim N.P. Note: Activities are weather dependent Tour Code: YVRULT

CALL 800.781.4040 TO BOOK

195

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PASSPORT, VISA AND IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS

You are also required to carry a valid International Student I.D., and International Youth I.D. or an International Teacher I.D. card if you are traveling on a special student/youth/teacher ticket. It is your responsibility to verify this with our travel expert who is assisting you. InsuranceTravel insurance is a vital part of your arrangements. We strongly recommend that you have taken out adequate insurance for the duration of your journey. Travel insurance is a mandatory element of some travel arrangements. We may be able to arrange travel insurance to be provided to you, furnish you a quote, and answer any queries you may have regarding the insurance. Travel Advice and Vaccinations U.S. Citizens should refer to the travel advice posted by

the U.S. Department of State at travel.state.gov for all the countries you intend to visit. Vaccinations may be required for some or all of the places you are intending to visit. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have arranged all necessary vaccinations for your itinerary.

You agree you will only use our website or services to make legitimate reservations or purchases and shall not make speculative, false or fraudulent reservations or reservations in anticipation of demand. You will only use our website and services in compliance with applicable law.

The carriers, hotels and other suppliers providing travel or other services on this website are independent contractors and not agents or employees of the us. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, breaches or negligence of any such suppliers or for any personal injuries, death, property damage, or other damages or expenses resulting therefrom. We have no liability and will make no refund in the event of any delay, cancellation, overbooking, strike, force majeure or other causes beyond our control, and we have no responsibility for any additional expense, omissions, delays, rerouting or acts of any government or authority.

Without our prior written permission, you may not (a) access, monitor or copy any content or information on our website using any “robot”, “spider” or other automated or manual device or program, (b) deep link to any portion of our website, or (c) “frame” or incorporate any portion of our website into any other website.

In no event shall we be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising out of, or in any way connected with, your access to, display of or use of this website or our services or with the delay or inability to access, display or use our website whether based on a theory of negligence, contract, tort, strict liability, or otherwise, and even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

Our website may contain links to third party websites that we provide only as a convenience to you. You should take precautions to ensure that whatever links you access are free of viruses, worms, trojan horses or other destructive mechanisms The existence of these links does not imply that we endorse such websites or any included content. We are not responsible for such websites or content or any data privacy practices of such websites.

If, despite the limitation above, we are found liable for any loss or damage which arises out of or in any way connected with any of the occurrences described above, then our liability will in no event exceed, in the aggregate, the greater of (a) the service fees you paid to us in connection with such transaction(s) on this website, or (b) one-hundred dollars (US$100.00) Or the equivalent in local currency.

INDEMNIFICATION You agree to indemnify us and our affiliates, and any of our Suppliers, and any such parties’ officers, directors, employees and agents from and against any claims, causes of action, demands, losses, damages, or other costs, (including reasonable legal and accounting fees) brought by you or third parties as a result of (a) your breach of this Agreement, (b) your violation of any law or rights of any third party, or (c) your use of our website. PRIVACY POLICY You consent to our processing and sharing of personal information about you and other members of your party that you have provided to us in accordance with the terms of and for the purposes set forth in our privacy policy. You represent that you have read and agree to the terms of our privacy policy, which can be found at our website. 3. ADDITIONAL TERMS WARRANTIES, DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY For the avoidance of doubt, references herein to “us” “we” and “our” shall also refer to our affiliates. The information, software, products, and services provided by us or our suppliers or published on our website may include inaccuracies or errors, including pricing errors. We do not guarantee the accuracy of, and disclaim all liability for any errors or other inaccuracies relating to such information that appears on our website. We expressly reserve the right to correct any pricing errors on our website and/or on pending reservations made under an incorrect price. In such event, if available, we will offer you the opportunity to keep your pending reservation at the correct price or we will cancel your reservation without penalty. Any ratings for suppliers are intended only as generalguidelines, and we do not guarantee the accuracy of the ratings. We make no guarantees about the availability of specific products and services. We make no representations about the suitability of the information, software, products, and services provided by us or contained on our website for any purpose. The inclusion or offering of any products or services by us does not constitute our endorsement or recommendation of such product or service. All such information, software, products, and services are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We disclaim all warranties that our website, its servers or any email sent from us or our suppliers are free of viruses or other harmful components. We hereby disclaim all warranties and conditions with regard to this information, software, products, and services, including all implied warranties and conditions of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title, and noninfringement. Warranty

subject to change and further terms and conditions. Offers are subject to availability and are sometimes not combinable. Blackout periods may apply. Ask your Travel Expert for full details at time of booking. The accommodation prices featured in this brochure are based on per person, dorm or twin-share and is based on lead-in room types. The ‘from’ pricing shown has been calculated using low season stays and may be subject to availability, currency fluctuation and change without notice. We’re sourcing great deals all year long so we recommend using the prices in this brochures only as a guide and to ask your Travel Expert for the best available deal for your travel period. Applicable pre-paid taxes and charges are included for flight prices, but airfares do not include taxes or charges collected by third parties or overseas airports. Current fuel surcharges have been included in the advertised airfares and are subject to change without notice. Prices advertised are based on cash payment and payment by any other means may attract a nominal administration fee. Work programmes exclude applicable visa fees. Seasonal surcharges may apply to some products depending on date of departure. Some products require you to hold an ISIC, ITIC or IYTC discount card to purchase at the cheaper price. If you do not hold any of these cards they can be purchased at the time of booking, subject to eligibility criteria. Local payments may apply for tour operators. Amendment, cancellation and administration fees apply. Photographic representation deemed accurate at time of print.

The limitation of liability reflects the allocation of risk between the parties. The limitations specified in this section will survive and apply even if any limited remedy specified in these terms is found to have failed of its essential purpose. GENERAL We are acting as an independent contractor and no joint venture, partnership or employment relationship exists between you and us or our Suppliers as a result of this Agreement or your use of our website. We reserve the right at any time to modify this Agreement without prior notice to you. Please refer to our website at www.statravel.com from time to time to review the most current version of the Agreement. Your continued access or use of our website or services signifies your acceptance of the modifications to the Agreement. You may not assign your rights or obligations under this Agreement to any third party. We may terminate this Agreement at any time for any reason, and such termination shall not affect any right to relief to which we are entitled at law or in equity. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas without regard to its conflicts of laws principles. If any provision of this Agreement is found to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the enforceability of the remaining provisions will not in any way be affected or impaired. PHOTOGRAPHY STA Travel takes every care to ensure that photography used to illustrate its tours, accommodation and other products is accurate, up-to-date and representative of the product(s) or destination(s) featured. We are committed to ensuring images are used appropriately, either by crediting the copyright owners, confirming with product or other third party suppliers images can be reproduced in our brochures or where necessary, providing financial reimbursement to the copyright owners for the use of their images. Images provided by third party suppliers are reproduced with the knowledge these may be used by STA Travel against particular product(s) only. The accommodation photos featured are representative of the the room types available at each property however this may not be the actual room type you receive; if you have a preference for a particular room, please ask your Travel Expert. All accommodation or product images within this brochure may be reproduced in other STA Travel collateral in junction with that particular product(s) only. PRICING Prices and offers are correct at time of print (Mar 2020) and

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INDI //INDEPENDENT

TA I L O R M A D E Y O U R WAY / /

WE ARE ALL INDIVIDUALS, SO WHY S H O U L D W E T R AV E L I N T H E S A M E WAY ?

With INDI, any adventure is possible. An alternative to group tours or completely winging it on your own, our Travel Experts work with your dates and budget to create personalised itineraries with your choice of accommodation, local transport, guided and un-guided activities.

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