Travels that Excite the Curiosity and Challenge the Mind
Travel with Book Now 855-698-1456 Download This Catalogue
Contents 24 Unlocking the Mysteries of Indochina History & Context
Wild Sri Lanka 82 History & Context
The Israeli-Palestinian Conundrum 28 Politics & Perspectives
AFRICA
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Through a Lens: Capture the Brilliance of Morocco Arts & Culture
The Two Sides of Southern Africa 62 Science & Nature
66 The Wilderness Within: Kenya and
Tanzania
EUROPE
Science & Nature
30 A Hike Around Mont Blanc Activities & Sports
An Irish Festival of Opera 32 Arts & Culture
Backstage at the Venice Film Festival 34 Arts & Culture
36 Italian Opera in the Footsteps of Verdi
and Puccini Arts & Culture
ASIA 70 A Taste of the Orient: Discover China
38 A Walk in Provence Food & Wine
Culture
History & Context
Iran: Tales From Persia 16 History & Context
Journey Into Myanmar 74 History & Context
The Colors of India 78 History & Context
20 The ’Stans of Asia: Follow the Silk Route History & Context
86 Food & Wine, the Heart of Italian Food & Wine
Espionage in Europe: Now & Then 40 History & Context
42 Greek Isles, Turkish Shores History & Context
The Great War: What Was Won 46 and What Was Lost History & Context
The Northern Ireland Peace Process 48 Politics & Perspectives
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90 The Russia Situation Politics & Perspectives
Of our 27 small group tours, eight are
extra special. Booking a Premier Journey, alongside our journalist or Times-selected expert, you can expect: EXQUISITE ACCOMMODATION Including five-star hotels or luxury tented camps. INDIVIDUAL TRANSFERS Regardless of your day of arrival or departure. EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES
NORTH AMERICA 50 Cuba. The Time Is Now:
A People-to-People Experience Arts & Culture
52 The Road to Gettysburg History & Context
Meetings with the likes of Mikhail Gorbachev’s former translator as we delve into “The Russia Situation” or Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s former personal assistant during our Journey Into Myanmar.
62 The Two Sides of Southern Africa Science & Nature 66 The Wilderness Within:
Kenya & Tanzania Science & Nature
70 A Taste of the Orient:
Discover China History & Context
74 Journey Into Myanmar History & Context
SOUTH AMERICA 54 Colombia: Because Reality Is Very
Different Arts & Culture
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The Galápagos: Evolution in Action Science & Nature
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The White Continent: Fly and Sail Antarctica Science & Nature
78 The Colors of India History & Context 82 Wild Sri Lanka History & Context 86 Food & Wine, the Heart
of Italian Culture Food & Wine
90 The Russia Situation Politics & Perspectives
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The New York Times Times Journeys is about creating bespoke itineraries and traveling to destinations that tell a story accompanied by those who are expert on the subject matter — that is why we invite our journalists to join you and hand-pick other experts so they can help you discover more.
History “Times Journeys is a natural next step in the evolution of how The New York Times approaches travel.” — Monica Drake, Travel Editor
Travel has always been an important aspect of the newspaper, and one look into the archives clearly portrays this. As early as 1852, travel stories were already being published. However, a dedicated travel section didn’t fully emerge until 1923, under the guidance of Lester Markel — the man behind the Sunday editions from 1923 to 1964.
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Today
Our Future
Travel is so woven into our society that The Times regards this section as a pivotal part of its publication even today. Integrating hard-hitting world news with compelling journeys that delve into such topics as the Northern Ireland peace process or the plight of the planet in Antarctica, to bring it closer to you — Times readers — seems a natural progression in our approach to travel.
Times Journeys is the future of educational and pioneering travel. From the first travel articles to hit The New York Times pages to where we are today has been a journey in itself — and now we want to share that journey with you.
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Why Travel With The New York Times? Watch Video
Small group tours and cruises Whether you choose from our collection of land-based journeys, limited to no more than 25 guests, or our specialist cruises on world-renowned cruise lines, you’ll share these precious experiences with like-minded individuals.
Times-selected experts Each tour is joined by a journalist or subject matter specialist, ranging from Pulitzer Prize winners to Middle East intelligence analysts. Depending upon the tour, you can enjoy a mix of lectures and informal conversations during meals and at other events.
Destinations that tell a story Visit locations as diverse as Iran, Cuba, Uzbekistan or the GalĂĄpagos Islands, exploring everything from politics and history to culture and natural wonders.
Exclusive access Escape the crowds with tours that include after-hours entrance to museums or hard-to-find tickets to events like opening night at the opera.
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Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Times Journeys Experts When you travel with Times Journeys, you will be in good company; not only will you be traveling with like-minded individuals, but with New York Times journalists and Times-selected experts too. Depending on the tour, expect to be joined by experts in history, world affairs, politics, the arts. Their informative lectures are specifically designed to bring to life the remarkable civilizations and cultures of the regions you visit. Each one of our experts will educate and inspire you. Here are just a few of the experts confirmed for our 2015 program.
Fred Plotkin Opera An Irish Festival of Opera
Jim Wilson Times Photographer Through a Lens: Capture the Brilliance of Morocco
Anthony DePalma Former Times journalist and author Cuba. The Time Is Now: A People-toPeople Experience
Richard Cohen Author The Great War: What Was Won and What Was Lost
James McPherson Author The Road to Gettysburg
Avi Melamed Intelligence Analyst The Israeli-Palestinian Conundrum
Douglas Dalby Times Journalist The Northern Ireland Peace Process
Jon A. Wiant Ret. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Espionage in Europe
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Alan Riding Times Journalist A Walk in Provence
Christopher Wren Former Times Journalist The ’Stans of Asia: Follow the Silk Route
A.O. Scott Times Journalist Backstage at the Venice Film Festival
Adam Nagourney Times Journalist Greek Isles, Turkish Shores
Christopher Dickey Author and Journalist (for The Daily Beast) A Hike Around Mont Blanc
Roger Cohen Times Journalist Greek Isles, Turkish Shores
Tony Clifton Former war Correspondent A Taste of the Orient: Discover China
Elaine Sciolino Times Journalist Iran: Tales from Persia
Richard Bernstein Former Times Journalist A Taste of the Orient: Discover China
Elisabeth Bumiller Times Journalist The Colors of India
Jeffrey Gettleman Times Journalist The Wilderness Within: Kenya & Tanzania
John Burns Times Journalist The Two Sides of Southern Africa
Serge Schmemann Times Editorial Board Member The Russia Situation
Steven Erlanger Times Journalist Journey Into Myanmar
Larry Rohter Times Journalist Colombia. Because Reality Is Very Different
Sarah Khan Former Editor Travel+Leisure The Colors of India
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Expert-Led Tours With a Focus On…
All Times Journeys have a tale to tell Whether it be unlocking the secrets of the Persian Empire or retracing Northern Ireland’s Peace Process — each Times Journey will help unravel some of the world’s geological, political, historical or sociological enigmas. Each tour has been placed into one of six categories. With over 25 journeys traveling to over 35 countries, find your next vacation with The New York Times.
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Activities & Sports Designed for those who prefer to take part and not sit on the sidelines of life.
Arts & Culture Expand your cultural horizons with expert-led trips on themes ranging from art and architecture to opera and photography. Choose from visiting Ireland’s Famous Opera Festival to exploring backstage at the Venice Film Festival.
Science & Nature Experience new climates, species of animals and get closer to geographical wonders with these carefully selected tours designed to lead you into the wilderness. Choose from an African safari in Tanzania and Kenya, or life in the Galápagos.
History & Context Learn the crucial and sometimes forgotten stories from the world’s intriguing past with a tour dedicated to antiquity. Discover the great events that have shaped, and influenced, the world we live in today. Explore the troubled past of Myanmar or journey back in time to the civilization of ancient Greece.
Politics & Perspectives Discuss the Northern Ireland Peace Process with ex-militants or delve into Israel and Palestine with Middle East specialists. These tours are designed for those who have an interest in foreign affairs.
Food & Wine Eat and drink your way through the vineyards of Provence or the fare of Italy. These tours will allow those with a love for culinary delights to discover some of the greatest tastes from across Europe.
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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In Association With... Times Journeys has collaborated with four world-class tour operators, each charged with sourcing and designing bespoke travel experiences exclusively targeting the intellectually curious.
Abercrombie & Kent
Insight Cruises
Abercrombie & Kent is the world’s foremost luxury travel provider, with more than 50 years of experience in combining authenticity and comfort in the world’s most extraordinary destinations. Through a network of 50 offices and a staff of thousands worldwide, A&K offers inspiring journeys to 100 countries on all seven continents.
Insight Cruises, founded in 1999, believes that education and travel foster growth and wholeness. Sensing that travel connects us and that the real journey is within, we create educational travel experiences for guests who value learning for its own sake. Insight Cruises welcomes you to a vital, engaging community for whom curiosity and discovery are second nature.
Academic Travel Abroad
Mountain Travel Sobek
Academic Travel Abroad Inc. combines the competency of an educational travel company over 60 years old, with the depth of an international education (study abroad) provider. This unique pairing of skills, talents and resources gives it great breadth. As a result, ATA’s innovative itineraries delve deeper, go behind the scenes, access the authentic and shun the touristic.
Mountain Travel Sobek is the premier, all-inclusive, specialty adventure travel company. Since 1969, MTS has pioneered authentic and deeply immersive experiential journeys worldwide. MTS creates fresh alternatives and unique experiences, and has an 85 percent repeat and referral rate. Clients often share how profound and moving their trip experiences have been.
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Relax: It’s All Taken Care Of.
Our travel consultants possess a passion for travel and for sharing their enthusiasm for exploring the world and the people in it. How to Book Call Online
855-698-1456 nytimes.com/timesjourneys
Introducing your Times Journeys Travel Consultants Whether you are interested in science, history or politics, have a passion for the arts or seek exhilarating outdoor adventures, your Times Journeys Travel Consultant will confidently review the pace of your trip, outline what’s included and work with your other special requests. They will help customize your pre- and posttrip desires and provide details about purchasing travel insurance and when to book your flights!
How do I reserve my Times Journeys trip?
You will be well cared for From the moment you inquire about a Times Journeys trip through to your departure, you will have access to the highest levels of planning services. You will receive a personalized and detailed pre-departure planning guide for your destination, along with our exclusive suggested packing list and other information. Your Travel Consultants will ensure that your pre-trip details will be as enriching as the trip itself, so that you are fully prepared for your world-class journey.
The real advantage Trust us to manage your reservation and pre-trip details wisely and in a timely manner so that you can fully enjoy the anticipation of your journey as much as the journey itself! Call us toll-free TODAY at 855-698-1456.
Reserving a Times Journeys trip is easy. Contact us toll-free at 855-698-1456. Our dedicated Travel Consultants will review the many itinerary options to fit your interest, schedule and budget. Find all trip details online at nytimes.com/timesjourneys.
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Through a Lens: Capture the Brilliance of Morocco The sweep of colors and textures found in Morocco provide unparalleled opportunities for the photographer. Sharpen your skills throughout your journey of this fascinating and mysterious land. Arts & Culture Travelers 24 Places visited Marrakech, Fes, Casablanca Itinerary 12 days, 11 nights 1 Welcome to Casablanca 2 Cross-Country to Rabat and Chefchaouen 3 Chefchaouen Medina 4 Volubilis, Meknes, Fes 5 Shooting Fes 6 Erfoud: Desert Dwellings 7 Todra Gorge, Sand Dunes, and Kasbahs 8 Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou 9 Telouet and Marrakech 10 Magical Marrakech 11 Marrakech to Casablanca 12 Departures
Itinerary DAY 1
Journey Highlights • Explore the colorful landscape of Morocco with a professional New York Times photographer, who will help improve your photographic skills • Capture the unique white and indigo buildings of Chefchaouen, famed for their elaborate doorways and colorful tile roofs • Ride a camel into the Sahara from your Berber desert camp and photograph sunrise and sunset
Arrive at the cosmopolitan city of Casablanca. Check into your hotel before meeting your guide and fellow travelers for an orientation and welcome. dinner. Royal Mansour, Meals: D DAY 2
“If the true essence of photography is light, I can think of no better place to photograph than Morocco.” — Angel Franco
Africa
Cross-Country to Rabat and Chefchaouen
Rise early to witness the huge African sun emerge over the Hassan II Mosque and the waterfront promenade in Casablanca. Next, depart for Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. Upon arrival, visit the Royal Palace, the Hassan Tower, and other major sites. Following lunch, drive north into the Rif mountain region to Chefchaouen to enjoy a late afternoon photo session. Hotel Atlas, Meals: B, L, D DAY 3
Expert Insight
Welcome to Casablanca
Chefchaouen Medina
Today, capture the essence of Chefchaouen in the Medina. Blue houses with roofs of burnt-orange tiles line winding alleyways paved with polished stones. Hotel Atlas, Meals: B DAY 4
Volubilis, Meknes, Fes
Rise early and head south to Volubilis to explore the remains of this ancient Roman city. Next, stop in the city of Meknes before continuing on to Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city. Riad Fes, Meals: B, D
Tour operated by Academic Travel Abroad
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DAY 5
Shooting Fes
Today is devoted to photographing Fes, a prime example of a medieval city found in the Arab world. Wander through the ancient Medina, one of the world’s largest walled cities. Explore avenues lined with mounds of spices, colorful woven Berber carpets and other Moroccan crafts. Riad Fes, Meals: B DAY 6
Erfoud: Desert Dwellings
Travel from Fes to the desert city of Erfoud. The journey will wind through the cedar forests and Berber villages of the middle Atlas Mountains before descending toward the mighty Sahara. Arrive in Erfoud, where 4x4s await to transport you through the dunes to your desert camp. Ride camels into the Sahara for a sunset shoot. Xaluca Group Bivouac camp, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
Todra Gorge, Sand Dunes, Limestone Cliffs and Kasbahs
Awake at dawn for a sunrise shoot in the mesmerizing dunes followed by a hearty breakfast at camp. Next, head south along the oases route, stopping to see the deep and colorful Todra Gorge. Continue to the town of Boumalne Dades, gateway to the Dades Gorge. After exploring the gorge, return to Boumalne Dades to explore the small town and spend the night. Kasbah Xaluca, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
October 2 Departure From a volcanic eruption in Colombia, to various presidential campaigns, and as chief photo assignment editor, the supervision of coverage surrounding the 9/11 attack that led to Pulitzer Prizes for The Times, Jim’s photographic experience is extensive. He joins our October departure to share his knowledge and improve our guests’ photography skills. Angel Franco May 1 Departure A senior New York Times photographer.
Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou
Head to Ouarzazate, a new Saharan town created as a Foreign Legion garrison in the 1920’s. It is known today as a staging point for film sets in the desert, most famously Lawrence of Arabia. Visit Aït Benhaddou, a fortified city and Unesco World Heritage site. Ksar Ighanda, Meals: B, L, D DAY 9
Featured Expert: Jim Wilson
Mosque and many other hidden treasures. Dive into the souks and wander through the tranquil Majorelle Gardens. Enjoy the city at night too. Jardins de la Koutoubia, Meals: B
Telouet and Marrakech
Board 4x4s this morning to the village of Telouet, where the former palace of the powerful Glaoui family lies. Enjoy lunch at a small auberge before heading over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tiz n’Tichka Pass, finally arriving in Marrakech at day’s end. Explore Jemaa el-Fna, the lively central square, to photograph before dinner. Jardins de la Koutoubia, Meals: B, L DAY 10
Magical Marrakech
DAY 11
Venture back into the souks early this morning for another shoot. Next, drive north through the deserts, mountain terrain and flat plains back to Casablanca for a farewell dinner. Royal Mansour, Meals: B, D DAY 12
Visit the sprawling Palace of the Bahia, the Saadian Tombs, the Koutoubia
Marrakech to Casablanca
Departures
Individual departures from Casablanca today. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
MAY 1, 2015 – MAY 12, 2015
$6,995
$1,525
N/A
Angel Franco
OCT 2, 2015 – OCT 13, 2015
$6,995
$1,525
N/A
Jim Wilson
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Iran: Tales From Persia Persia. Iran. For 2,500 years, this powerful country has beguiled and befuddled the world. Discover the ancient secrets and modern complexities of this influential land on a 13-day itinerary incorporating some of the oldest archaeological sites in the world. Welcome to the once-forbidden land of Iran. History & Context Travelers 20 Places visited Tehran, Hamadan, Zagros Mountains, Yasuj, Shiraz, Isfahan Itinerary 13 days, 12 nights 1 Welcome to Tehran 2 Hamadan: Persian Secrets 3 The Lost City and Colorful Bazaars 4 Mountain Villages 5 The Zagros Mountain Drive 6 High Reliefs and Ancient Statues 7 Shiraz — Poetry, Vineyards, Flowers 8 The Ancient Ruins of Persepolis 9 Pasargadae 10 The Trade Roots of Isfahan 11 Meandering Isfahan 12 Final Reflections 13 Farewell Friends
Journey Highlights
Expert Insight
• Explore incredible historical sites such as Persepolis and Pasargadae, which date back to the Fifth century B.C.E.
“When people ask me about Iran, two questions inevitably come up: Aren’t you scared as an American? And don’t you have to wear a black veil? The answers are no and no.” — Elaine Sciolino
• Witness the goings-on of the nomadic tribes folk found deep in the Zagros Mountains • The cities of Isfahan and Shiraz form the crux of your journey featuring the greatest architectural and intellectual achievements of Persian culture
Asia
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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Featured Expert: Elaine Sciolino March 2, April 20, August 23 Departures Elaine Sciolino, a New York Times journalist, has been traveling to Iran since 1979. She has covered the Iran hostage crisis and the Iran-Iraq war, and traveled extensively to every part of the country. She has interviewed many of the key Iranian leaders, including Ayatollah Khomeini, the father of the revolution (the first American to interview him) and the current spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Most importantly, her book, “Persian Mirrors: The Elusive Face of Iran,” has won numerous awards and is still considered a classic introduction to Iran.
Watch Video DAY 3
The Lost City and Colorful Bazaars
Today, you’ll visit the ancient excavated site of Ecbatana, examine three architecturally beautiful buildings: two churches, including a cemetery of Iranian Christians, and the Gonbad-e Alavian, a 12th-century mausoleum. In the afternoon, journey over the 7,000-foot-high Asadabad Pass. Visit the remains of the Anahita Temple in Kangavar before arriving in Bisotun to view the largest inscription, from the Achaemenid period, ever found. Arrive in Kermanshah. Parsion Kermashah Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
Itinerary DAY 1
Welcome to Tehran
Tehran is a fascinating fusion of old and new. Here, you will visit the Carpet Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Jewelry Museum. Laleh Hotel, Meals: L, D DAY 2
Discovering Persian Secrets in Hamadan
Following breakfast, our tour will take you southwest of Tehran to Hamadan. Explore the tomb of Queen Esther and Mordechai, an ancient crypt, which contains Hebrew inscriptions and a copy of the Ten Commandments. Later, walk to the Ganj Nameh Valley. Azadi Hotel or Bu-Ali Laleh Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
Mountain Villages
You’ll take the cross-country route today via the Zagros Mountains, making a few stops en route to Khomein. The tour will also pass through the towns of Dorud and Aligudarz before arriving in Khomein. Here, you’ll visit the family residence of the Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Drive on to Arg-e-Googad for a night in a 400-year-old fortress. Gowgad Citadel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
The Zagros Mountain Drive
Today, you’ll drive through the stunning Zagros Mountains, en route to Yasuj. You’ll have time for pictures and a picnic before meeting the rural residents and hearing their ancient tales. Hotel Parsian Azadi Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Iran: Tales From Persia
DAY 6
High Reliefs and Ancient Statues
The journey to Shiraz will take you past the village of Nurabad and its ancient rock reliefs from the Sassanid period, where you will make a brief stop. The route also meanders through the ancient city of Bishapur, where you’ll view a large statue of Shapur I. Bozorg Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
DAY 9
Pasargadae
This morning, en route to Isfahan, you will stop at the Unesco World Heritage site of Pasargadae. Expect to see the Presidential Palace, part of a royal complex known as the Tall-e Takht. Pasargadae was once the capital of the Persian Empire until Alexander the Great conquered it. The afternoon will be spent exploring a third century A.D. Sassanid village citadel and a 17th century caravanserai in the town of Izad Khast. We’ll arrive into Isfahan in time for dinner. Kowsar Hotel or Abbasi Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
Shiraz — Poetry, Vineyards, Flowers
During the Zand dynasty (1747 – 79 A.D.), Shiraz was the Iranian capital; many of its most architecturally interesting buildings were either built or restored during this time. A few highlights will be the peaceful Eram Garden, the colorful bazaar of Haji and the 19th century Nasir al Mulk Mosque. A traditional Persian lunch will be taken at Shater Abbas. In the afternoon you will visit the tomb of the noted poet Hafez. Bozorg Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
The Ancient Ruins of Persepolis
Looted by Alexander the Great around 330 B.C., home to the King of Kings for over 200 years, this archaeological site was lost under the Persian deserts for hundreds of years. Modern excavation began in the 1930s; around the time Persia became the Islamic state of Iran. Today, people flock here to marvel at its grandeur, and Iranians seeking to connect to their Persian roots often make pilgrimages here. Bozorg Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
Asia
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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DAY 10
The Trade Roots of Isfahan
DAY 12
Isfahan has been designated a Unesco World Heritage site Your tour will start with the Vank Cathedral, also known as the Church of the Saintly Sisters, alongside the church there is a large library, which includes the first book ever to be printed in Iran. You will continue with visits to Chehel Sotoun Palace and Jame’ Mosque. At the end of the day, you will take a look at the incredible art and culture of Persian carpets at a gallery. Kowsar Hotel or Abbasi Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 11
Meandering Isfahan
Today, stroll around the enchanted gardens of the 17th century Hasht Behesht Palace, the Eight Paradises Palace. Visit the Royal Square, where Persian and Iranian royalty played and watched polo, and Iman Square, one of the largest plazas in the world. Continue to Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, built by Sheikh Abbas I for the use of his harem, making it one of the few women-only mosques. Spend some time at the bazaar before pausing for a moment for reflection and a cup of tea in a traditional teahouse. Kowsar Hotel or Abbasi Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
Final Reflections
Your final day in Iran will be spent with a scenic drive north through the central mountains of Iran, the Karkas, or Vulture, Mountains. En route stop off at many historical sites including the facade of a khanegah, a place of spiritual retreat for Sufis. Stop off in Abyaneh, one of the oldest villages in Iran, whose inhabitants have upheld the traditions and customs from years gone by. Continue to the lovely Persian garden at Bagh-e Fin, and the 19th-century tiled mausoleum of Emamzadeh Ebrahim. Arrive in Kashan for a relaxing evening and dinner. Negarestan Hotel or Amir Kabir Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 13
Farewell Friends
This morning, depart Kashan for Tehran International Airport, passing through Qom, where the main Shia Cleric Center for Islamic Studies is located.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
MAR 2, 2015 – MAR 14, 2015
$6,995
APR 20, 2015 – MAY 2, 2015
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
$650
N/A
Elaine Sciolino
$6,995
$650
N/A
Elaine Sciolino
JUN 7, 2015 – JUN 19, 2015
$6,995
$650
N/A
To be announced
AUG 23, 2015 – SEP 4, 2015
$6,995
$650
N/A
Elaine Sciolino
NOV 29, 2015 – DEC 11, 2015
$6,995
$650
N/A
To be announced
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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The ’Stans of Asia: Follow The Silk Route The ancient land of Central Asia ignites a romantic vision of rose-filled gardens and glittering turquoise and gold palaces rising out of arid desert plains. We think of the Silk Road and colorful nomads carting their wares in caravans along dusty tracks. With so much of the region out of bounds, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan beckon the curious traveler like the ancient call to prayer that blasts hauntingly from the mosques. Journey Highlights • Visit many legendary untouched Silk Road cities including Samarkand and Bukhara • Soak up the history of this region from Alexander the Great to Tamerlane to the Soviets • Shop for famous carpets, handicrafts and spices in bustling, colorful markets • Climb the Kalyan Minaret in Bukhara — known as the “Death Tower”
Expert Insight “It’s been forty years since I first explored Central Asia and was lured back more times than I can count. Samarkand, crown jewel of the fabled Silk Route, never fails to amaze and delight.” — Christopher Wren
Asia
History & Context Travelers 20 Places visited Samarkand, Bukhara, Ashgabat. Tashkent Itinerary 11 days, 10 nights 1 Welcome to the ’Stans — Tashkent 2 Mountains, Rivers and Deserts 3 Tour the City — Spice Girls, Mosques and Mausoleums 4 The Birthplace of Tamerlane 5 The Silk Route City: Bukhara 6 Welcome to Turkmenistan 7 The Merv Region 8 Ashgabat: City Tour 9 Ashgabat — Dashoguz and Khiva 10 The Once-Doomed City of Khiva 11 Farewell
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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Featured Expert: Christopher Wren April 5 Departure Christopher S. Wren retired from The New York Times after nearly 29 years as a reporter, foreign correspondent and editor. He headed Times news bureaus in Moscow, Cairo, Beijing, Ottawa and Johannesburg, covered the United Nations, and reported from the former Soviet Union, Eastern Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East, China, Southeast Asia, Africa, South America and Canada. He also worked as an editor at Look and Newsweek magazines and at the International Herald Tribune in Paris. Celestine Bohlen September 6 Departure Columnist for the INYT with a focus on Russian affairs. Tim Neville May 24 Departure He is a seasoned journalist, who focuses on travel writing.
Itinerary DAY 1
Welcome to the ’Stans — Tashkent
Arrive into the bustling Uzbeki capital city of Tashkent, where your local guide will meet and transfer you to the hotel. In the morning, explore Tashkent taking in the Khast Imam Complex to the Chorsu Bazaar. After lunch, visit the new part of the city from Independence Square to Amir Timur Museum to Alisher Navoi Theater. Tashkent International Hotel, Meals: L, D DAY 2
Mountains, Rivers and Deserts
Following breakfast you will travel cross-country through dramatic mountain scenery intent on the Unesco World Heritage city of Samarkand. The first stop is the Gates of Tamerlane, found just beyond the city of Dzhizak. Visit a bustling market to purchase the world-famous melons before arriving in time for dinner in Samarkand. Registan Plaza, Meals: B, L, D
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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The ’Stans of Asia: Follow The Silk Route DAY 3
Tour the City — Spice Girls, Mosques and Mausoleums
Following breakfast, embark on a tour of Samarkand — highly regarded as the most popular city in Uzbekistan due to its perfectly preserved exotic architecture. Led by your expert guide; take in the most famous sites including the Guri Emir and the mausoleum of the conqueror Tamerlane. Your guide will then lead you through the medieval streets lined with various other mausoleums including the beautiful Regal Mausoleum of Shah-i-Zinda. A highlight of the day is the bustling market where you will meet the original Spice Girls. Next, the Mosque Bibi Khanum beckons. Registan Plaza, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
The Birthplace of Tamerlane
Following breakfast, your driver will transfer you to Bukhara. Again, along the route there are a few not-to-be-missed sites including Shakhrisabz – the birthplace of Tamerlane. Your guide will lead a tour of his Palace along with the Kok Gumbaz Mosque. The tour will continue on to the Unesco World Heritage site of Bukhara. Look out for the many local markets selling handicrafts, musical instruments and quilted materials. Asia Bukhara Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Welcome to Turkmenistan
This morning following breakfast, drive to the Uzbekistan -Turkmenistan border, Farab. After the border crossing formalities, enjoy lunch in a local café. Afterwards, drive to Mary. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Dinner at the hotel. Margush Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
The Merv Region
Today, you will visit Old Merv — known as Mary Shahu Jahan — King of the World. For about 300 years, Merv was the biggest city in Central Asia and the capital of the Khalifat for eight years. Drive back to Mary and explore the history museum of the Merv region. In the early evening transfer to the airport for a short flight to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, transfer to the Sofitel Oguzkent Hotel. Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
The Silk Route City: Bukhara
The 2,000 year old city of Bukhara lies right on the Silk Route making it an extremely important city in Uzbekistan’s history. Meet with your local guide to meander the dusty, busy streets. The afternoon continues with a visit to the fortress, the ark and the Emir open-air throne room. In the evening, at one of the national houses an expert chef will offer a cooking demonstration followed by a supper of plov – a local rice dish. The evening will conclude with a folklore and national dress show at Nodir Devonbegi madrassah. Asia Bukhara Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
Asia
DAY 6
Ashgabat: City Tour
This city with its manicured parklands and shiny gold domes is thriving on the oil and gas dollar. Your guide will lead a tour through the city taking in some of the impressive sites including the Ruins of Nissa — once an important Silk Route trading town — the highlight is the vibrant, busy and colorful Sunday Market. Dinner will be taken in a local restaurant serving traditional food. Sofitel Oguzkent Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
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DAY 9
Ashgabat — Dashoguz and Khiva
This morning transfer to Ashgabat Airport for the short flight to Dashoguz. Upon arrival, take an excursion to Kunya Urgench. The visit includes Kutluk Timur, the tallest minaret in Central Asia. After lunch, drive to the border checkpoint at Shavat and cross back into Uzbekistan, then continue to Khiva. Dinner at a local restaurant in Khiva. Asia Khiva Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 10
The Once-Doomed City of Khiva
In the days of old, the city of Khiva struck fear into the hearts of those who needed to venture there as it was once associated with barbaric cruelty, thankfully today this no longer exists and what remains is a perfectly preserved slice of Uzbekistani history. Your day begins with a walking tour of the old quarter. At midday, lunch will be served at the house of a local family. In the afternoon, transfer to the Urgench Airport for a flight to Tashkent. Tashkent International Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 11
Farewell
Pack up your bags, squeeze the purchases from the different bazaars into your suitcase, say farewell to your local guide and depart for the airport. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EX PERT
APR 5, 2015 – APR 15, 2015
$6,495
$700
$240
Christopher Wren
MAY 24, 2015 – JUN 3, 2015
$6,495
$700
$240
Tim Neville
SEP 6, 2015 – SEP 16, 2015
$6,495
$700
$240
Celestine Bohlen
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
23
Unlocking the Mysteries of Indochina The Indochina Peninsula was named because it combines influence from China and India. These nations — Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia — had centuries of history even before French colonization and long before the Vietnam War. Visit the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and the modern yet still traditional cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City by land, water and elephant.
Itinerary DAY 1
Arrive in Vietnam
On arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of day is free for relaxing or for your own exploration of the bustling city, still called Saigon by many locals. You’ll gather with your fellow Times travelers for dinner at a local restaurant. Renaissance Riverside Hotel, Meals: D
History & Context Travelers 21 Places visited Laos, Cambodia, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary 12 days, 11 nights 1 Arrive in Vietnam 2 The Lives of the Vietnamese 3 South and North 4 Hanoi 5 A Junk Cruise on Ha Long Bay 6 On to Laos 7 Explore the Pak Ou Caves and Luang Prabang 8 Into the Woods 9 Sunrise With the Monks 10 Ode to Vishnu and Buddha 11 Temple Cities 12 Homeward Bound
Journey Highlights • Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum • Built in the 10th century, Banteay Srei honors the Hindu God Shiva • Visit Angkor Wat, a Unesco World Heritage site • Wander the night market in Luang Prabang, Laos, to view the wares of the Hmong mountain people
Expert Insight “I have been closely associated with S.E. Asia, serving both as a U.S. Marine combat correspondent and civilian correspondent during the war; later with the U.N. Refugee Agency.” — Raymond Wilkinson
Asia
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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DAY 2
The Lives of the Vietnamese
Featured Expert: Raymond Wilkinson
After breakfast, head to Cai Be, a three-hour drive, for an exploration of the rice bowl of Vietnam. Board your private sampan to visit a colorful floating market, cruising among local barges full of fruits and vegetables. Your sampan will also take you to some local home factories to see traditional ways to make rice paste, rice popcorn and coco candies. After lunch, cruise to Dong Hoa Hiep: the evergreen islands in the Mekong River. Visit a 19th century mandarin house, where the family will welcome you with a cup of tea. Then, it’s on to Vinh Long. After crossing the Co Chien River, the excursion will end at Vinh Long Pier. The evening is at leisure. Renaissance Riverside Hotel, Meals: B, L
November 7 Departure Wilkinson has led a boundary-defying career as an international journalist and aid worker, reporting and serving in parts of Southeast Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
DAY 3
South and North
After breakfast, set out for a tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Highlights include the Saigon Central Post Office; a stunning French colonial building designed by Gustave Eiffel. You’ll also visit Notre Dame Cathedral, whose building materials all came from France, and the Reunification Palace. You’ll also visit the city’s Chinatown, the Cholon district. After lunch at a local restaurant, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. The InterContinental Westlake, Hanoi, Meals: B, L, D
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
25
Unlocking the Mysteries of Indochina
DAY 4
Hanoi
Start a full-day tour of Vietnam’s capital city at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Ho was the catalyst for the establishment of the communist North Vietnam, and was its leader until his death in 1969. You’ll visit his former residence, a traditional house on stilts, and the One Pillar Pagoda, a reconstruction of a Buddhist temple. You’ll also visit the thousand-year-old Temple of Literature. After lunch, visit the Art Vietnam Gallery, created and run by an American art director, Suzanne Lecht, a recognized leading authority on contemporary art in Vietnam. She will discuss with you the state of contemporary art in Vietnam. Then, head for a tour on foot and on cyclo, three-wheeled pedicabs, through the Old Quarter. If you wish, a folk performance of traditional water puppets is available in the early evening. The InterContinental Westlake, Hanoi, Meals: B, L DAY 5
A Junk Cruise on Ha Long Bay
After an early breakfast, you will head to Ha Long Bay, a stunning Unesco World Heritage site with 3,000 islands of towering limestone dotting the bay and the Gulf of Tonkin. At Ha Long Harbor, you’ll board a private junk, a traditional wooden boat fashioned for overnight cruising. You’ll cruise the magnificent Ha Long Bay with your own captain, chef and waiter. Enjoy an excellent menu of fresh seafood on deck. Overnight on a traditional wooden junk, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
On to Laos
Embark on a traditional-style boat to cruise the Mekong to the Pak Ou Caves. These sacred caves, called Tham Ting by many locals, shelter hundreds of Buddha statuettes. After you return, tour the town. In the late afternoon, you will drive to a local house to participate in the special ceremony of Baci — a “calling of the soul” for special occasions — before dinner with a local family. Kiridara Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
Into the Woods
Take a short drive to the Elephant Camp and Village, in a mountainous setting on the banks of the scenic Nam Khan River. Enjoy an hour on elephant back, through forests and river. You will then take a boat to the Tad Sae waterfalls. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the magnificent waterfalls or on the Mountain View veranda of Elephant Village. After lunch return to Luang Prabang. Kiridara Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 9
After breakfast on the boat, you’ll return to Hanoi and take an evening flight to Luang Prabang. The former capital of Laos, Luang Prabang is now a Unesco Heritage Town, surrounded by mountains and at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers. It is home to numerous Buddhist temples, or “wats”; the tropical fragrances and the bright colors of the temples make this a sight to calm and please the most jaded tourist. Kiridara Hotel, Meals: B, L, D
Asia
Explore the Pak Ou Caves and Luang Prabang
DAY 7
Sunrise With the Monks
Enjoy the sunrise at the crossroads in town, where you will see monks in saffron robes from Luang Prabang’s many temples walking in long silent processions. After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to the Angkor region. Victoria Angkor Resort and Spa, Meals: B, D
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DAY 10
Ode to Vishnu and Buddha
Meet your guide this morning and leave to discover the incredible temple of Angkor Wat, a Unesco World Heritage site with soaring towers and extraordinary bas-reliefs. After lunch, visit the ancient Ta Prohm Monastery, where immense kapok trees have taken root in the stones — hence its nickname as the Jungle Temple. Dinner is on your own back in Siem Reap. Victoria Angkor Resort and Spa, Meals: B, L DAY 11
Temple Cities
In the morning, visit Banteay Srei, where a most impressive jewel of Khmer art exists. You’ll then return to the northern end of Angkor to visit Preah Khan Temple. After lunch, visit Angkor Thom, the Great City, a mile on each side, beginning by the south gate. Then visit the Elephant Terrace. Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the finest restaurants in Siem Reap. Victoria Angkor Resort and Spa, Meals: B, L, D DAY 12
Homeward Bound
You may relax at the hotel or see more of Siem Reap until noon, when you will be transferred to the airport and your flight home. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
NOV 7, 2015 – NOV 18, 2015
$6,895
$1,100
$650
Raymond Wilkinson
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
27
The Israeli-Palestinian Conundrum Travel behind the media lens to explore the broad spectrum of the Israeli-Palestinian experience on a journey through 3,000 years of history, politics and religion. Politics & Perspectives Travelers 25 Places visited Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Jericho Itinerary 9 days, 8 nights 1 Arrival Day 2 An Overview 3 On the Ground 4 Demographics and Tolerance 5 The Ancient City of Safed 6 On the Road to Jerusalem 7 A Shared and Disputed City 8 Yad Vashem; the West Bank 9 Homeward Bound
Journey Highlights • Visit border crossings, West Bank settlements, kibbutzim, cultural centers and organizations involved in the peace process • Tour the Holy Land’s most famous sights, including Nazareth, Jericho, the Sea of Galilee, the Mount of Olives and the Western Wall • Meet with local people affected by regional issues and gain an understanding of daily life in Israel and Palestinian territories
Expert Insight “As a former senior Israeli official on Arab affairs, I spent most of my intelligence career in Arab-speaking areas. I look forward to helping you understand the story behind the story.” — Avi Melamed
Asia
Itinerary DAY 1
Arrival Day
Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport and transfer to Tel Aviv. This evening, get to know your fellow New York Times travelers at a festive welcome dinner. Carlton Tel Aviv, Meals: D DAY 2
An Overview
Begin the day with a breakfast briefing by a U.S. Embassy attaché who will discuss the current U.S.-Israeli relationship. Next, drive to ancient Jaffa and visit the Arab-Hebrew Theater. Meet with Nadia Hilou, a former member of Parliament, who will share insights into the Palestinian narrative and experiences from her work with the Jaffa Project. Later, explore historic Jaffa. Carlton Tel Aviv, Meals: B, L DAY 3
On the Ground
Begin with a visit to a border crossing along the 1967 Green Line dividing Palestinian and Israeli territory, including a special briefing by Avi Melamed. Continue to Caesarea to walk through the excavated fortress and view the aqueduct. Then stop at the Peres Center for Peace in Jaffa. Subject to their schedules, meet with the director-general and the director of special projects here. Carlton Tel Aviv, Meals: B DAY 4
Demographics and Tolerance
Travel north to Haifa for a visit to Beit Hagefen, an Arab-Israeli cultural center dedicated to promoting coexistence, neighborliness and tolerance through
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cultural and artistic activities, festivals, meetings and community programs. Continue to Haifa University and meet with Arnon Soffer, a professor of geography and an adviser to the Israeli government. Lunch today will be in a Druze community on the slopes of Mount Carmel, followed by a drive to Nazareth for a tour of the city. Nof Ginosar Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Christianity and the Ancient City of Safed
Begin the day with a visit to the Mount of Beatitudes. Visit the ancient synagogue in Capernaum where Jesus preached, and then continue to Tabgha at the northwestern end of the Sea of Galilee. At the Church of the Multiplication, see the fifth-century mosaic. Following lunch, visit Safed, one of the four holy cities in the Jewish tradition. Nof Ginosar Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
Featured Expert: Avi Melamed October 16 Departure Avi Melamed is an author, educator, journalist and former Israeli official specializing in Arab affairs and intelligence. He is currently the Rosenzwog fellow of intelligence and Middle East Affairs at the Eisenhower Institute in Washington, D.C.
On the Road to Jerusalem Arnon Soffer October 16 Departure Israeli Hydrology and Demography.
Leave the hotel and head south via the Jordan Valley, stopping for a tour of Kibbutz Sde Eliyahu, a leader in the growth of organic farming in Israel. Meet with a Palestinian representative in Jericho, one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in the world. Continue to Jerusalem, stopping in Mount Scopus, overlooking the Old City. Inbal Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 7
This morning, ascend the Mount of Olives for spectacular views of the Old City and the Temple Mount. Visit the Christian Quarter, home to important sites such as the Via Dolorosa, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Grand Bazaar. Tour the Jewish Quarter, and view the Cardo, the unearthed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem, lined with columns and the remains of ancient shopping areas. Take a borders and boundaries tour, covering the separation fence. This evening, you are scheduled to hear from the journalist and Middle East analyst Linda Gradstein, who reports for PRI’s “The World.” Inbal Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 8
Nadia Hilou October 16 Departure Former Israeli politician.
Jerusalem: A Shared and Disputed City
Yad Vashem; the West Bank
Of Special Note: A Palestinian expert will be announced shortly.
DAY 9
Visit Yad Vashem, the Jewish people’s living memorial to the Holocaust and place of intergenerational and international encounter. Then head north from Jerusalem for a visit to Rawabi, the first Palestinian planned city and the largest private-sector project ever undertaken in Palestine. Meet a Palestinian involved in the project, who will share information about Rawabi as well as views on life in the West Bank. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner in Jerusalem. Inbal Hotel, Meals: B, D
Homeward Bound
After breakfast, transfer to Ben-Gurion International Airport for flights home. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERTS
OCT 16, 2015 – OCT 24, 2015
$5,950
$1,595
N/A
Avi Melamed, Nadia Hilou, Arnon Soffer
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
29
A Hike Around Mont Blanc Hike Western Europe’s highest range accompanied by local experts. Sitting at 15,770 feet, Mont Blanc is part of a range featuring soaring peaks and magnificent valleys stretching into France, Italy and Switzerland. Activities & Sports Travelers 18 Places visited Rhône Valley, Chamonix, Aiguille du Midi, Vallée des Glaciers Itinerary 9 days, 8 nights 1 Arrive, Transfer to Chamonix 2 Chamonix — Warm-up Hike 3 Col du Bonhomme — Bourg St. Maurice 4 Hike to Courmayeur, Italy 5 Pas Deux Saut 6 The Meeting of Three Countries 7 A Hike Through the Rhône Valley 8 Col des Montets — Chamonix 9 Fly Home
Journey Highlights • Hike the classic seven-day circuit of the Mont Blanc massif — a “must-do” for every hiker • Learn about local history and geography from our local French experts • Hike through and over Alpine forests in the Rhône Valley
Itinerary DAY 1
Arrive into Geneva, Switzerland, for your 2 p.m. private group transfer to Chamonix, France. After meeting the guides, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel. Hotel Les Aiglons, Chamonix, France, Meals: D DAY 2
“The English Romantics marveled at Mont Blanc ‘piercing the infinite sky,’ lifting their spirits. I find it, simply, magical. To which we add the pleasures of food and wine and, most delicious of all, the air.” — Christopher Dickey
Europe
Chamonix — Warm-up Hike — Aiguille du Midi
Today, take the cog train up the steep slopes to reach the Mer de Glace, the second-largest glacier in the Alps. From here traverse to Plan de l’Aiguille above the Chamonix valley to board a scenic cable car up to the Aiguille du Midi for breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif. (6 hours hiking — approx. 6-8 miles — 3,960’ elevation gain.) Hotel Les Aiglons, Chamonix, France, Meals: B, L DAY 3
Expert Insight
Arrive, Transfer to Chamonix
Col du Bonhomme — Bourg St. Maurice
Following breakfast, transfer to the church of Notre-Dame de la Gorge where you begin a day of hiking. Firstly, ascend to Col du Bonhomme and Croix du Bonhomme. In the afternoon, hike the downhill grassy trail to Les Chapieux. Next transfer to Bourg St. Maurice (7 hours hiking — approx. 10 miles — 4,200’ ascent, 3,000’ descent.) Hotel L’Autantic, Bourg St. Maurice, France, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
Hike to Courmayeur, Italy
The day begins with a 1 and 1/4 hour transfer to the end of the ‘Vallée des Glaciers,’ then take a relatively easy hike over the Col de la Seigne (8,245’). Here the views of Mont Blanc are Himalayan in scale, as the mountain rises in a
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breathtaking abruptness from the Veny Valley to the summit 10,000 feet above. After admiring the views make your descent into Italy to Lac Combal and Visaille. Transfer 25 minutes to Courmayeur (3,800’), situated beneath the Grand Jorasses and Brenva Glacier, to spend the night. (6 hours hiking — approx. 10 miles — 2,300’ ascent, 2,700’ descent.) Hotel Svizzero, Courmayeur, Italy, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Pas Deux Saut
After breakfast, enjoy a short 10-minute transfer to Val Ferret where you’ll begin a hike to Pas Deux Saut with a stop in Malatra. After a scenic picnic lunch, begin your descent via the Vallon d’Armina down to Val Ferret, where your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Courmayeur. (6.5 hours hiking — approx. 7 miles — 3,300' ascent, 3,300' descent.) Hotel Svizzero, Courmayeur, Italy, Meals: B, L DAY 6
Featured Expert: Christopher Dickey June 9 Departure Christopher Dickey is currently the Foreign Editor of The Daily Beast, based in Paris. Previously he was the Paris Bureau Chief for The Daily Beast and for Newsweek Magazine. Dickey has written for Foreign Affairs, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, and The New York Times Book Review, among many other publications.
The Meeting of Three Countries Christopher Wren September 3 Departure A former senior Times journalist who headed numerous bureaus globally.
Transfer to a scenic trail, which passes the spectacular ‘Glacier de Pre-de-Bar’ with Mont Dolent looming above. This is where France, Italy and Switzerland meet. Cross the Grand Col Ferret (8,300') to enter Switzerland, and descend to the scenic village of La Fouly (5,280'). Transfer by van through the Swiss Val Ferret to Champex. (7 hours hiking — approx. 10 miles — 2,500' ascent, 2,900' descent.) Hotel Sporting & Glacier, Champex, Switzerland, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
Tim Neville September 15 Departure Tim Neville is a seasoned journalist, who focuses on travel writing.
A Hike Through the Rhône Valley
After a 10-minute transfer, a hike into the forest brings us high over the Rhône Valley and the town of Martigny. An easy descent brings us to the Col de Forclaz where your vehicle will be waiting. You’ll then transfer to Argentière for the night. (6 hours hiking — approx. 12 miles — 2,800' ascent, 2,200' descent.) Hotel de La Couronne, Argentière, France, Meals: B, L DAY 8
Col des Montets — Chamonix
DAY 9
The day starts with a short 15-minute transfer to the Col des Montets. From Le Col des Montets (4,800'), hike to Les Cheserys (7,130'), enjoying views of the Le Tour and Argentière glaciers, and the entire Mont Blanc massif. After re-joining the Grand Balcon Route and La Flégère, descend to Chamonix (3,300'). Tonight enjoy a festive farewell dinner with the group. (7 hours hiking — approx. 10 miles — 2,700' ascent.) Hotel Les Aiglons, Chamonix, France, Meals: B, L, D
Fly Home
After breakfast transfer to Geneva airport. There will be one transfer to the airport at 8:30 a.m. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
JUN 9, 2015 – JUN 17, 2015
$5,995
$700
N/A
Christopher Dickey
SEP 3, 2015 – SEP 11, 2015
$5,995
$700
N/A
Christopher Wren
SEP 15, 2015 – SEP 23, 2015
$5,995
$700
N/A
Tim Neville
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
31
An Irish Festival of Opera Hear three excellent and diverse operas at the Wexford Opera House, Ireland’s first custom-built, multipurpose opera house. Enjoy a backstage tour and meet the opera’s artistic director at a private reception. Explore the Fringe Festival, featuring art exhibitions and late-night reviews. All this and more on our superb seven-day tour dedicated to Irish opera. Arts & Culture Travelers 25 Places visited Wexford, Dublin, Kilkenny Itinerary 7 days, 6 nights 1 Dublin — Powerscourt — Wexford 2 Wexford 3 Wexford 4 Wexford — Kilkenny 5 Wexford — Dublin 6 Dublin 7 Departures
Expert Insight
Journey Highlights
“I am delighted to accompany this trip to Wexford, not as a tour guide, but as a teacher, as your educator and as your pleasure activist.” — Fred Plotkin
• Delight in a variety of lunchtime recitals and afternoon ShortWorks at Wexford
Itinerary
• Explore the Fringe Festival, featuring art exhibitions and late night reviews
DAY 1
• Attend a performance at Dublin’s acclaimed National Concert Hall • Visit Powerscourt Estate, Ireland’s most beautiful and beloved historic house and gardens, set in the Wicklow Mountains
Dublin — Powerscourt — Wexford
Meet your fellow travellers at Dublin Airport this morning and drive south to Wexford. Stop en route at Powerscourt, one of Ireland’s most beloved historic estates. Have lunch and time to explore the lovely gardens. Arrive in Wexford and check into the Talbot Hotel on the harbor in Wexford town. Have dinner at the hotel this evening. Talbot Hotel. Meals: L, D DAY 2
Wexford
Take a guided walk of historic Wexford, stopping at the 12th-century Selskar Abbey. Following lunch, have a private, backstage tour of the Wexford Opera House, before attending your first opera this evening, Frederick Delius’s powerful Koanga. Talbot Hotel, Meals: B, L
Europe
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Featured Expert: Fred Plotkin October 20 Departure A leading expert on opera and Italian culture, Fred Plotkin has over 40 years in the opera industry. He has worked for many of the world’s great opera companies and theaters, including directing at La Scala and five years as performance manager at the Metropolitan Opera. He visits Ireland regularly, and has immersed himself in its rich culture. DAY 3
Wexford
Choose among many offerings today, from the festival’s ShortWorks performances, noontime recital or browse the artworks at the vibrant Fringe Festival. Meet the festival’s artistic director at a reception this evening, and then attend Guglielmo Ratcliff, a tragic opera by Pietro Mascagni. Talbot Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Wexford — Kilkenny
Visit Kilkenny today. Widely considered the best preserved of the medieval Irish cities, Kilkenny owes its charm to its beautifully restored buildings and winding slipways, surrounding the magnificent, 12th-century Kilkenny Castle. This evening dine together in Wexford and then attend Le Pré aux clercs, a comedic opera by Ferdinand Herold. Talbot Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 5
DAY 6
Dublin
Visit the Dublin Writers Museum to see paintings, manuscripts, rare editions, and memorabilia relating to Irish literature. Continue on to the National Gallery for a highlights tour of the outstanding collection, including paintings by Jack Yeats, the poet’s brother, and portraits of eminent Irish. Meet this evening for a festive farewell dinner. Stephen’s Green Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 7
Departures
Transfer to Dublin Airport for individual flights home. Meals: B
Wexford — Dublin
Depart Wexford this morning for Dublin. Have a private introductory tour of the city including a guided walk on the quads of Trinity College, founded in 1592. See the beautiful Book of Kells, created around 800 A.D. by Columban monks on the island of Iona, off the Scottish coast. Visit Christ Church, built by the Anglo-Normans in 1172, and end at St. Patrick’s, the national cathedral of Ireland. Check into Stephen’s Green Hotel in the heart of the city for a two-night stay, and attend a concert at the National Concert Hall this evening, pending confirmation. Stephen’s Green Hotel, Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
OCT 20, 2015 – OCT 26, 2015
PRICE
$6,195
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
$695
N/A
Fred Plotkin
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
33
Backstage at the Venice Film Festival Founded in 1932, the Venice Film Festival is the oldest film festival in the world. It attracts A-listers, film buffs and press in their hordes year on year. During this unique program, enjoy complete access to all screenings, press conferences and other festival activities, as well as daily discussion groups with the New York Times film critic A.O. Scott. Arts & Culture Travelers 25 Places visited Venice Itinerary 7 days, 6 nights 1 Welcome to Venice 2 Let the Cameras Roll 3 More Films and Discussions 4 Film Hopping 5 Venice Film Walk 6 Screenings and Farewell 7 Homeward Bound
Journey Highlights • Enjoy unlimited access to the Venice Film Festival with an industry pass • Attend daily discussions with New York Times film critic A.O. Scott • Take a guided tour of Venice’s famous film sites
Admire the magnificent Basilica di San Marco during an exclusive afterhours tour.
Europe
Itinerary DAY 1
Welcome to Venice
Arrive at Venice Airport Marco Polo. Transfer to the historic Hotel La Residenza to meet with your fellow Times travelers and New York Times film critic A.O. Scott, who will be accompanying this journey. Enjoy a welcome reception before taking a stroll for an exclusive after-hours guided visit to the magnificent Basilica di San Marco. Hotel La Residenza, Meals: L, D DAY 2
Let the Cameras Roll
The Venice Film Festival takes place on the sandy island known as the Lido. Following an orientation to the festival and how to get around Venice, you are free to attend the screenings and other events of your choice using your industry pass. Each evening, New York Times film critic A.O. Scott will host an informal gathering in the hotel for those interested in discussing the films of the day over a glass of wine. Hotel La Residenza , Meals: B DAY 3
More Films and Discussions
Following breakfast at the hotel, journey back to the Lido and the film festival. You will now be familiar with the set-up so embark on a day of film hopping. Dinner is at your leisure. Hotel La Residenza, Meals: B
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Featured Expert: A.O. Scott September 5 Departure A.O. Scott joined The New York Times as a film critic in 2000. Previously, he was a Sunday book reviewer for Newsday and a frequent contributor to Slate, The New York Review of Books and many other publications.
DAY 4
Film Hopping
Today is dedicated to packing in as many films as possible — wander the festival and soak up the atmosphere too. Attend panel discussions on the happenings of the festival so far and maybe even spot a Hollywood star in the crowds. The daily film discussion will take place back at the hotel again with A. O. Scott. Hotel La Residenza, Meals: B DAY 5
Venice Film Walk
This morning, join a film location specialist for a walking tour highlighting the iconic sites and filming in Venice. It culminates with a visit to the Atelier Nicolao, a costume manufacturer. After lunch and a wine tasting at a nearby restaurant, the remainder of the day is free to attend film screenings or continue exploring Venice on your own. Hotel La Residenza, Meals: B, L DAY 6
Screenings and Farewell
Palazzo Nani Bernardo, an appropriately cinematic setting for a festive farewell dinner. Hotel La Residenza, Meals: B, D DAY 7
Our final day in Venice is free for you to attend more screenings and soak in the festival atmosphere. This evening, indulge in a gondola ride to the grand
Homeward Bound
Transfer by water taxi or alilaguna to Venice International Airport for flights home. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
SEP 5, 2015 – SEP 11, 2015
$6,795
$1,295
N/A
A.O. Scott
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
35
Italian Opera: In the Footsteps of Verdi and Puccini Attend three world-class opera performances in Italy’s top theaters and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and mouthwatering cuisine of three of Italy’s most compelling cities: Venice, Florence and Milan. Arts & Culture Travelers 25 Places visited Venice; Milan; Florence Itinerary 9 days, 8 nights 1 Welcome to Venice 2 Verdi in Venice 3 Festival in Florence 4 Florence 5 The Puccini Trail in Lucca and Torre del Lago 6 Visiting Verdi in Busseto 7 Verdi and Puccini in Milan 8 Modern and Musical Milan 9 Arrivederci, Italia!
Itinerary DAY 1
Journey Highlights • Enjoy a magnificent contemporary performance of “La Traviata” at renowned opera house, La Fenice • Opening night tickets to a new production of Puccini’s fantastic opera “Turandot,” at La Scala • Tickets to Beethoven’s “Fidelio,” conducted by Zubin Mehta, during Maggio Musicale: one of the most prestigious opera festivals in the world • Attend a concert at La Scala, with the Berlin Philharmonic, conducted by Sir Simon Rattle
Expert Insight “It’s my honor to have been asked by The Times to create with them, and to lead, a tour that includes so many riches that you only find in Italy.”
Welcome to Venice
Arrive in Venice and transfer to Hotel Bonvecchiati, set in the heart of Venice, minutes away from St Mark’s Square. This evening, gather for a welcome dinner with Times expert on Italian culture Fred Plotkin and fellow opera-loving travelers. The Hotel Bonvecchiati, Meals: D DAY 2
Verdi in Venice
Venice’s legendary Teatro La Fenice has played host to many world premieres of famous operas, including Verdi’s “La Traviata,” which opened on March 6, 1853. Today, after a free morning to explore Venice, the tour heads to the famous La Fenice for a matinee performance of Robert Carsen’s celebrated contemporary production of “La Traviata,” followed by dinner at a local restaurant. The Hotel Bonvecchiati, Meals: B, D DAY 3
Festival in Florence
Depart Venice to travel to Modena, birthplace of Luciano Pavarotti and home to some of Italy’s most amazing food. After lunch, continue to Florence. This evening, attend a performance of Beethoven’s “Fidelio,” conducted by Zubin Mehta, at the world-famous annual music festival, the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino. The Executive Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Florence
— Fred Plotkin
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore vibrant Florence, a city whose contribution to culture and the arts cannot be overstated. Among its highlights are the Florence
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Tour operated by Academic Travel Abroad
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cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio and the Piazza della Signoria, located in the heart of the historic quarter. Gather for dinner at a local restaurant this evening and, subject to availability, attend a concert. The Executive Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 5
The Puccini Trail in Lucca and Torre del Lago
Travel west to Lucca and Torre del Lago on a day trip tracing the life of Giacomo Puccini. Begin with a visit to Puccini’s birthplace in Lucca, now home to the Puccini Museum. Dine on delicious regional cuisine from this part of Tuscany at a local restaurant. Continue to nearby Torre del Lago to visit the villa where Puccini composed most of his masterpieces, before returning to Florence for an evening at leisure. The Executive Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 6
April 25 Departure A leading expert on opera and Italian culture, Fred Plotkin has over 40 years in the opera industry. He has worked for many of the world’s great opera companies and theaters, including directing at La Scala and five years as performance manager at the Metropolitan Opera.
Visiting Verdi in Busseto
Check out of the hotel in Florence and journey to Busseto, in the province of Parma, where Giuseppe Verdi was born and spent most of his life. At La Buca di Zibello, savor a stupendous lunch of local dishes. In the afternoon, visit the modest house in the village of Roncole where Verdi was born in 1813, as well as the Villa Verdi in nearby Sant’Agata di Villanova d’Arda, the composer’s beloved home for 50 years, until his death in 1901. Travel to Milan. The Hotel Cavour, Meals: B, L DAY 7
Featured Expert: Fred Plotkin
Watch Video DAY 9
Arrivederci, Italia!
Bid farewell to Milan and your Italian operatic and gastronomic adventure, as you check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for individual flights home. Meals: B
Verdi and Puccini in Milan
Giuseppe Verdi was not just a superb composer, but also a tireless supporter of the musical profession. In the last years of his life, he established the Casa di Riposo per Musicisti (Rest Home for Musicians), better known as the Casa Verdi. Here, discover the fascinating stories of more than 1,000 musicians. Verdi himself is buried in a crypt here. Following lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is free to explore Milan. This evening, attend the premiere of a new production of Puccini’s “Turandot,” conducted by Riccardo Chailly and starring Nina Stemme and Aleksandrs Antonenko. The Hotel Cavour, Meals: B, L DAY 8
Modern and Musical Milan
Take advantage of a full day in Milan to explore the city on your own or attend the opening day of the International Expo Milano 2015, centered on the theme “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life.” This evening, gather for a festive farewell dinner, then return to La Scala for a performance of Bruckner’s Seventh Symphony with the peerless Berlin Philharmonic, conducted by Sir Simon Rattle. The Hotel Cavour, Meals: B, D
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
APR 25, 2015 – MAY 3, 2015
$9,550
$1,850
N/A
Fred Plotkin
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
37
A Walk in Provence The word “Provence” evokes images of rolling hills and mountains, vineyards and farms, the scent of lavender and idyllic French country villages. Experience all that and more while walking off the beaten track, in the steps of Van Gogh and countless wanderers, for a unique view of this timeless land. Food & Wine Travelers 20 Places visited Avignon, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Roussillon Itinerary 7 days, 6 nights 1 Arrive in Avignon 2 The Wines of the Rhône 3 The Popes and the Mountains 4 The Lubéron 5 The Land of Van Gogh 6 The Mistral Winds 7 Market Day and Departure
Journey Highlights • Enjoy stunning scenery combined with history at the Pont du Gard aqueduct, spanning the River Rhône • Visit ancient Roman structures such as Arles • Walk to a village in Provence perched on a hilltop at dusk, Roussillion • Picnic among the grapes at Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Expert Insight “No region better celebrates France’s unique art de vivre than Provence. In a vast theater of lavender fields, medieval churches and hilltop villages, life moves at an unhurried pace. How could I miss a chance to share the delights with others?” — Alan Riding Itinerary DAY 1
Arrive in Avignon
Meet your fellow Times travelers this afternoon in Avignon, the “City of Popes” and a Unesco World Heritage site, on the Rhône. After a welcome meeting complete with local wine, you’ll meander through the labyrinth of cobbled streets in the old center, just enough time to work up an appetite for a Provençal meal in one of the town’s top restaurants. Hôtel de l’Horloge, Meals: D DAY 2
The Wines of the Rhône
A short transfer takes you to the village of Châteauneufdu-Pape. Walk for about two hours amid the famed grapes, including Grenache and Syrah. After a picnic lunch, transfer to the Pont du Gard, an aqueduct of immense proportions and a marvel of Roman architecture, for a guided tour. Hôtel de l’Horloge, Meals: B, L, D DAY 3
The Popes and the Mountains
Begin the day with a guided tour of the grandiose Pope’s Palace in Avignon, the largest Gothic building in Europe.
Europe
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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After lunch, transfer to the Lubéron mountains, famed for their hilltop villages. The most famous one is probably Gordes, built impossibly and dizzyingly atop a rocky crag, its golden stone buildings rise majestically to a renaissance castle. La Bastide de Gordes Hotel & Spa or Hotel Les Bories & Spa, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
The Lubéron
In the morning, transfer to the village of Roussillon. Set beside an abandoned ocher quarry, the village homes are painted in every hue from pale yellow to deep red, juxtaposed against the deep blue Provençal skies. Meander through the village before setting off for the very heart of the Lubéron: driving to roads’ end, you will enter the Aiguebrun valley, set below imposing limestone cliffs. In a hike covering about four miles, follow the Aiguebrun River upstream amid the lush vegetation. Next, leave the river and climb through carpets of mint and thyme and along abandoned terrace walls to the village of Sivergues. Enjoy a Provençal picnic before walking back to the valley. La Bastide de Gordes Hotel & Spa or Hotel Les Bories & Spa, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Featured Expert: Alan Riding June 21 Departure Alan Riding spent five years as The New York Times’s bureau chief in Paris, before becoming the newspaper’s European cultural correspondent. While in this post, he co-authored “Essential Shakespeare Handbook” and “Opera,” two illustrated reference books published by Dorling Kindersley. He left The New York Times in July 2007 to devote himself to a new book, “And The Show Went On: Cultural Life in Nazi-Occupied Paris,” now published in several languages. Most recently, Riding has turned to writing for the theater.
The Land of Van Gogh Raymond Sokolov September 27 Departure Former New York Times food editor.
In the morning, travel to Saint Rémy de Provence. It’s an artists’ town, known for its most famous visitor — Vincent Van Gogh — who spent the last year of his life here. The region is also famed for its olive groves, and you’ll spend time learning about the many varieties that make up the local award-winning olive oils. After lunch in town, transfer to the very crest of the Alpilles mountains. Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa, or Hotel de L’Image or Hotel Benvengudo, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
Nicholas Delbanco October 4 Departure Author and professor of English at University of Michigan.
The Mistral Winds
A morning walk takes you into the heart of the Alpilles Mountains. Its sparse pine trees are set among twisted and unsettling dark limestone formations, eroded over time by water and the prevailing Mistral winds. After a local wine tasting, transfer to the town of Arles for a quintessential lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the hidden gems of the city. Then return to the hotel for a farewell feast. Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa, or Hotel de L’Image or Hotel Benvengudo, Meals: B, L, D
DAY 7
Market Day and Departure
The town of Arles has a magnificent market to explore before transferring back to Avignon and your flight home. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
MAY 10, 2015 – MAY 16, 2015
$6,195
$1,500
N/A
Patrick Ollivier-Elliot
JUN 21, 2015 – JUN 27, 2015
$6,195
$1,500
N/A
Alan Riding
SEP 27, 2015 – OCT 3, 2015
$6,195
$1,500
N/A
Ray Sokolov
OCT 4, 2015 – OCT 10, 2015
$6,195
$1,500
N/A
Nicholas Delbanco
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
39
Espionage in Europe: Now & Then From the Cold War to present day government phone-hacking, Berlin and Vienna are two of Europe’s capital cities that have seen more than their fair share of activity. History & Context Travelers 25 Places visited Berlin and Vienna Itinerary 8 days, 7 nights 1 Arrive in Berlin 2 World War II in Berlin 3 The Cold War in Berlin 4 Spy vs. Spy 5 The Nuclear Test Ban Treaty 6 The Cold War in Vienna 7 The Art of Espionage 8 Depart Vienna
Journey Highlights • Dr. Siegfried Beer, the founder of the Austrian Center for Intelligence, Propaganda and Security Studies (ACIPSS) and a leading Viennese expert on intelligence and espionage, will join the tour to discuss intelligence and espionage in Vienna today and the hot topics surrounding 21st-century spying
Itinerary DAY 1
Arrive in Berlin
When you arrive in Berlin, you will be transferred to the hotel before meeting your fellow Times travelers at a welcome reception and dinner. The Westin Grand, Meals: D
• Explore the Tempelhof Airdrome and Gliencke Bridge • Step inside the former headquarters of the Stasi (East German Secret Police) • Journey through the underground tunnel system of Vienna • Explore Cold War Berlin with trips to Checkpoint Charlie and the Hohenschönhausen Memorial and Museum
Expert Insight
DAY 2
World War II in Berlin
Start your tour of Berlin at the German Resistance Memorial Center. Next, climb to the top of the dome in the Reichstag, the meeting site of Germany’s Parliament for a splendid 360-degree view of the city. Lunch will be served at the Reichstag’s rooftop garden restaurant, before you explore the “Topography of Terror” outdoor exhibit. It includes the remains of the Gestapo’s headquarters and the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall. Finish the day at the Reichsführerbunker, more commonly known as Hitler’s bunker. The Westin Grand, Meals: B, L DAY 3
The Cold War in Berlin
“I am delighted to be part of this unique tour. I’ll share my experiences as we explore old spy cases, travel dark alleys and visit spy haunts.” — Jon A. Wiant
Your exploration of Cold War Berlin begins with the historic Mitte district. Walk along “death strip,” where the Berlin Wall once stood and armed guards patrolled. Visit the newly opened Asisi Panometer, a 360-degree panorama depicting an average day in divided Berlin during the 1980s. Then stop at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum. After lunch, visit the former headquarters of the Staatsicherheit Dienst to learn about the history and creed of the former
Europe
Tour operated by Academic Travel Abroad
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East German Secret Police, before driving to the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial and Museum, the former Stasi prison. The rest of the day is at leisure. The Westin Grand, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Spy vs. Spy
This morning, head west to the infamous “Bridge of Spies,” Glienicke Bridge. Walk along the bridge and learn about the spy exchanges that occurred between East and West Germany. After lunch, drive south to the Teufelsberg Alliiertenmuseum, the Allies Museum. Stop at the Schöneberg Town Hall. Then head to the Tempelhof Airport, where Allied planes delivered food, water and other supplies to West Berlin after the Soviet Union had blockaded supply routes. Finish the day with a visit to the Marx-Engels Forum Park and the DDR museum. The Westin Grand, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Featured Expert: Jon A. Wiant April 26 Departure Jon A. Wiant is an authority on Cold War intelligence operations. His career spans the last three decades from his days as a young soldier in the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis to his positions as White House director of intelligence policy and then as deputy assistant secretary of state for intelligence when the Berlin Wall came down in 1989.
Vienna: The Nuclear Test Ban Treaty
Take an early morning flight to the city of Vienna, Austria. Begin your exploration at a Viennese Kaffehaus for an introductory lecture on the growth of espionage in Vienna. Then, take a guided tour of the Vienna International Center. There, admire the detailed architecture and learn about NATO’s history and mission, with a focus on the Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty. The Kaiserhof Hotel, Meals: B, L
Watch Video DAY 6
The Cold War in Vienna
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Vienna’s spy sites. Led by a Cold War specialist, learn about the division of the city across the Allied nations and the extensive black market. After lunch, take to the underground for a guided tour of the Vienna tunnel system. As you walk through, be transported back to Cold War Vienna and to the famous chase scene in “The Third Man.” The Kaiserhof Hotel, Meals: B DAY 7
The Art of Espionage
Join Dr. Siegfried Beer, the founder of the Austrian Center for Intelligence, Propaganda and Security Studies (ACIPSS) and a leading Viennese expert on intelligence and espionage. Learn why Vienna is still a major center for intelligence and espionage today. Enjoy lunch at the Third Man Museum Café before exploring the museum’s vast collection dedicated to “The Third Man” movie and post-war Vienna. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner. The Kaiserhof Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
Depart Vienna
After breakfast, transfer to the Vienna airport for your trip home. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
APR 26, 2015 – MAY 3, 2015
$7,450
$1,000
$180
Jon A. Wiant
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
41
Greek Isles, Turkish Shores Travel to the realm of classical antiquity on a 12-day voyage to the Greek Islands and Turkish coast, accompanied by New York Times journalists and regional experts offering daily seminars. History & Context Places visited Venice; Istanbul; Athens Itinerary 12 days, 11 nights 1 Venice Sail Away 2 At Sea — Sail the Adriatic 3 Katakolon, Greece 4 Nafplion, Greece 5 Athens, Greece 6 Kusadasi, Turkey 7 Mykonos, Greece 8 Rhodes, Greece 9 Santorini, Greece 10 Aegean Sea and Dardanelles 11 Istanbul (overnight) 12 Istanbul
Expert Insight “Why does Athens capture the imagination and Istanbul linger in the memory? To me, the Aegean region is where pride in the past balances with living in the moment.” — Neil Bauman, Insight Cruises Accommodation Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam A mid-sized ship noted for its excellent hospitality and service. Deck Plans: See page 92
Journey Highlights • Join columnist Roger Cohen, journalist Adam Nagourney, Steven A. Cook Ph.D., expert on Arab and Turkish politics, and Mark A. Stoler Ph.D., expert on American diplomatic history, for a program of onboard lectures • Visit the ancient city of Athens to admire the architecture and historical sites • Spend a night in the vibrant city of Istanbul • Explore the stunning Greek islands of Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes
Europe
Tour operated by Insight Cruises
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Featured Expert: Roger Cohen
Itinerary DAY 1
Venice Sail Away
Fly in to Venice and spend the morning wandering this beautiful lagoon city. Then board Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam and bid bon voyage to Venice as you sail off on one of the most beautiful sail-aways known in the cruising world. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: L, D DAY 2
At Sea — Sail the Adriatic
Settle in onboard and delve into current events, regional issues and the history of American involvement in this sphere, with New York Times journalists and experts. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D DAY 3
Katakolon, Greece
September 26 Departure Working first as a foreign correspondent and later foreign editor, Cohen joined The New York Times in 1990. He has been a columnist since 2004. First for the INYT (formerly the International Herald Tribune), and in 2009 he was named a columnist of The New York Times. Cohen is the author of “Hearts Grown Brutal: Sagas of Sarajevo” (Random House, 1998), an account of the wars of Yugoslavia’s destruction.
Today, we sail to Katakolo to visit Olympia. Walk among the ruins of religious and athletic structures and picture Olympia in her glory. Katakolo itself is a slice of small-town Greece, so soak up the laid-back, sun-drenched town, walk the pebble beach and enjoy a drink in the charming harbor. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
Nafplion, Greece
Disembark and explore the town. Visit the Venetian fortress, Bourtzi, in the harbor, and the Venetian Palamidi hill fortress, which overlooks the town. While meandering its streets appreciate its architecture and shop for local specialties. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
Adam Nagourney September 26 Departure Los Angeles Bureau Chief and former chief national political reporter for The New York Times. Steven A. Cook September 26 Departure An expert on Arab and Turkish politics as well as U.S.-Middle East policy.
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Greek Isles, Turkish Shores
DAY 5
Athens, Greece
DAY 9
Chart your own course and explore distinctive neighborhoods in a city that’s been continuously inhabited for 7,000 years. A day in Athens must include the Acropolis; a walk through the old town and just some time to sit and admire the views from Philopappou Hill, or the Hill of Muses found near the Acropolis. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
DAY 7
Aegean Sea and Dardanelles
Today will be dedicated to discussion and learning, listening to our onboard experts as we sail the Dardanelles Straight. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D DAY 11
Istanbul (overnight)
Lose yourself in the city’s museums and mosques, plunge into its bazaars or explore the Turkish coffee ritual. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D DAY 12
Rhodes, Greece
We sail in to Rhodes Town, a coveted and heavily fortified harbor since antiquity and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D
Europe
DAY 10
Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos, the island of the winds, offers lovely and luxurious beaches, quirky small museums and innumerable photo opportunities of its iconic windmills. Consider hopping on a ferry to the nearby island of Delos, legendary birthplace of Artemis and Apollo and home to the haunting Terrace of the Lions. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
Spend some time visiting Akrotiri, which could be “the lost city of Atlantis.” Walk the streets and trails blessed with views of the Santorini cliffs. The island is awash with white houses with vibrant blue roofs, terra-cotta lanes peppered with mosaic tiles. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D
Kusadasi, Turkey
Kusadasi is rich in archaeological sites, carpetmaking artisans and seafaring tradition. The harbor offers many fine dining establishments or a plethora of beaches makes for a relaxing shore day. Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam, Meals: B, L, D
Santorini, Greece
Istanbul
Today we disembark and head home, or onwards on a Turkish adventure. Meals: B Of Special Note: The complete lecture and seminar program can be viewed online at nytimes.com/times-journeys/travel/greek-islesturkish-shores-cruise
Tour operated by Insight Cruises
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Pinnacle Suite: PS
Neptune Suite: SC, SB, SA
Signature Suite
Vista Suite
Ocean View
Interior
Dates & Pricing DATES
EXPERTS
SEP 26, 2015 – OCT 7, 2015
Roger Cohen, Adam Nagourney, Steven A. Cook
CABIN CATEGORY
PRICE
SINGLE
CABIN CATEGORY PRICE
SINGLE
PS
$11,883.19
$21,657.34
VE
$4,783.19
$7,642.54
SA
$7,573.19
$12,964.94
C
$4,583.19
$6,094.83
SB
$7,259.19
$12,415.44
D
$4,533.19
$6,026.83
SC
$6,933.19
$11,844.94
DD
$4,503.19
$5,986.03
SS
$5,683.19
$9,392.49
G
$4,383.19
$5,822.83
SY
$5,583.19
$9,222.49
I
$4,183.19
$5,550.83
VA
$5,183.19
$8,302.54
J
$4,143.19
$5,496.43
VB
$5,083.19
$8,137.54
K
$4,133.19
$5,482.83
VC
$4,983.19
$7,972.54
L
$3,983.19
$5,278.83
VD
$4,883.19
$7,807.54
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Government taxes and fees
Cruising gratituities (11.50 pp per day)
Port charges
Use of the spa
Booking service fee
Casino
Tour leader gratituities
Holland America shore excursions
Meals, including 24-hour room service (excluding optional meals in the private restaraunts)
Private restaurants
Non-bottled water, juices, and standard coffee and tea
Personal expenses
Fitness center Over 24 hours of programming Two cocktail parties
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
45
The Great War: What Was Won and What Was Lost Travel to many of the most important sites of the War to End Wars during its centennial, from Flanders Fields to Paris. Trace the battles of the Somme and the Marne, and explore Verdun, Ypres, Reims, Château-Thierry, Belleau Wood, the Argonne Forest and Saint-Mihiel before ending your Great War journey in Paris. History & Context Travelers 25 Places visited Ypres, Reims, Chateau-Theirry, Flanders Fields, Verdun Itinerary 9 days, 8 nights 1 Beginning With the End 2 The Battle of Ypres 3 The Somme, 1916 4 The First Battle of the Marne, 1914 5 The Second Battle of the Marne, 1918 6 Verdun and Meuse Argonne 7 Saint-Mihiel 8 On to Paris 9 Fond Farewell
Journey Highlights • Discover how the U.S. entry into the war helped turn the tide as you explore the American battle sites at Chateau-Theirry, Belleau Wood, the Argonne Forest and Saint Mihiel • Stay at Ypres and Reims, two cities whose great medieval architectural treasures were badly damaged during the war but have been restored to their former splendor • Visit the rail car in the Compiégne Forest where the armistice was signed in 1918, and visit the Lafayette Escradrille Memorial in Paris, honoring America’s first combat aviators
Expert Insight “This is a personal journey for me: my father’s family came from Belgium, and his great aunt (who flew in hot air balloons) was involved in helping allied servicemen get from behind enemy lines back to Britain. So this subject is very dear to me.” — Richard Cohen
Europe
Itinerary DAY 1
Beginning With the End
After arriving in Paris transfer by private coach to Ypres, Belgium. En route you will visit the reconstructed railroad car in the woods of Compiègne, France, where at 5 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1918, the armistice to end World War I was signed. Hotel Novotel Ieper Centrum Flanders Fields, Meals: Reception, D DAY 2
The Battle of Ypres
Ypres was once a great medieval city famous for its Cloth Hall. Meticulously restored, the Cloth Hall now houses the excellent “In Flanders Fields” museum. After lunch, tour the Ypres Salient, held by the British Army throughout the war. Among the preserved trenches and bunkers lies the impressive Tyn Cot British Commonwealth Cemetery, as well as the moving Langmark German Cemetery. After dinner, you may return to the Menin Gate, where every night buglers play the Last Post. Hotel Novotel Ieper Centrum Flanders Fields, Meals: B DAY 3
The Somme, 1916
On July 1, 1916, Field Marshal Douglas Haig, the British commander, launched an attack along the Somme River to relieve pressure on the French fighting at Verdun. For over four months the fighting raged at now-famous places such as Vimy Ridge, Thiepval and Beaufort-Hamel and Mametz. Visit these and other sites along the Somme, including the Lochnagar Crater, Fromelles and the NotreDame de Lorette French Cemetery. After a picnic lunch, continue to the American Military Cemetery at Bony. Visit the nearby Riqueval Tunnel for a discussion of the American-British attack on the Hindenburg Line on Sept. 29, 1918. Hôtel de la Paix, Reims, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
The First Battle of the Marne, 1914
Visit the key locations of Chemin des Dames and Aisne River west of Reims as you trace the dramatic events of the First Battle of the Marne. Enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to Reims for a visit to the 800-year-old Cathedral of Notre-Dame. Hôtel de la Paix, Reims, Meals: B, L DAY 5
The Second Battle of the Marne, 1918
Visit the magnificent Château-Thierry American monument: on one side of the monument is an engraved map and orientation table showing American military
Tour operated by Academic Travel Abroad
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Featured Expert: Richard Cohen April 7 Departure An award-winning career, spanning more than 35 years, has seen Richard Cohen write, edit and lecture on numerous subjects around the world, including editing former secretary of state Madeleine Albright’s five books and the biographies of World War I poets. He was also the first editor of Sebastian Faulk’s “Birdsong,” the most successful World War I novel of the past 20 years.
DAY 7
Saint-Mihiel
Today, meet with a Saint-Mihiel official to learn about the attack at the Saint-Mihiel Salient, one of the first U.S. solo offensives in the war. At the majestic Montsec American Monument, view a bronze relief map illustrating the military operations that took place here. After a picnic lunch in Thiaucourt, explore the other small villages where fierce fighting took place. Hôtel Le Coq Hardi, Meals: B, L operations in the region and significant battle sites. After a picnic lunch, walk through the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery. On the hillside above the cemetery sits the lovely Romanesque Belleau Chapel, its walls are inscribed with the names of more than a thousand Americans whose remains were never recovered or identified. Nearby is a German military cemetery, which presents quite a contrast to the American memorials. Hôtel de la Paix, Reims, Meals: B, L DAY 6
Verdun and Meuse-Argonne
Today, drive through the Meuse-Argonne region to the spectacular Pennsylvania Memorial in Varennes-en-Argonne. Visit the nearby Argonne Museum for a curator-led tour of its American weapons, uniforms and private collections. Stop by the Missouri First World War Monument at Cheppy, and then continue on to the U.S. Meuse-Argonne Military Cemetery. Continue on to Fort Douaumont for a guided tour. Hôtel Le Coq Hardi, Meals: B, D
DAY 8
On to Paris
Today, return west along the Marne to visit the newly opened Musée de la Grande Guerre at Meaux. Continue to Paris and visit the Lafayette Escadrille Memorial. A director will welcome you to this forgotten site, which highlights the story of these volunteers — America’s first combat pilots. This evening gather for a farewell dinner. Royal Saint Honore, Meals: B, D DAY 9
Fond Farewell
Spend your last few hours enjoying the city, before heading to the airport for your individual flights home. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
APR 7, 2015 – APR 15, 2015
$6,895
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
$1,075
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
N/A
Richard Cohen
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
47
The Northern Ireland Peace Process During this eight-day itinerary discover the facts behind the 30-year conflict that took hold of Northern Ireland beginning in 1968. Politics & Perspectives Travelers 25 Places visited Belfast, Dublin, Omagh, Derry Itinerary 8 days, 7 nights 1 Starting at the End: Omagh Bombings 2 Free Derry 3 Giants Causeway and the City of Belfast 4 Industrial Belfast City 5 The Peace Process 6 Irish Eyes: Belfast to Dublin 7 Dublin’s Political Past 8 So Long, But Never Farewell
Journey Highlights • Enjoy dinner with Sinn Féin politician, author and businessman, Martin O Muilleoir. As former Lord Mayor of Belfast, he can offer unique insights into the conflict • Take a tour of the Falls and Shankill Roads joined by Republican and Loyalist ex-combatants
DAY 1
• Behind-the-scenes tour of the Stormont Parliament Buildings in Belfast with a private dinner in the member’s Long Gallery • Visit the Museum of Free Derry — which tells the story of the civil rights movement and creation of Free Derry. This visit will include time with museum director John Kelly, who lost his brother during the events of Bloody Sunday
Expert Insight
Starting at the End: Omagh Bombing
Arrive in Dublin, the Republic of Ireland, and travel onwards to Derry, Northern Ireland. Before reaching Derry, stop at one of the most significant sites of the Troubles — the Omagh bombing. Visit the site, which is now marked with a pillar made from six tons of glass, 4.5 meters high, inscribed with a suspended frozen heart before wandering into the Memorial garden. The expert guide will discuss the ramifications of the Real IRA’s actions over lunch in a local pub. Beech Hill Country House, Meals: D DAY 2
“NI is a terrain I’ve come to know well through frequent assignments. My grandfather left the family home near Belfast in the 1870s to serve in the British army, so returning nearly 150 years later will be a voyage of special significance.” — John F. Burns
Europe
Itinerary
Free Derry
Today, delve into some of the darkest days of the Troubles with a walking tour of Bogside. This vibrant and inspirational area was once the setting for terrible clashes. Walk through the colorful streets, which are filled with political murals, as a tribute to the darker days and, depending on departure date, it may be possible to talk with one of the artists. Next tour the Museum of Free Derry. Here, John Kelly, the director, will be on hand to discuss the events of Bloody Sunday while guiding us around the museum. Following lunch in a local pub or restaurant, continue onto Gasyard Heritage Centre to examine the key facts behind the political prisoners of 1980/1981 and the Hunger Strikes. Beech Hill Country House, Meals: B, L
Tour operated by Academic Travel Abroad
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DAY 3
Giant’s Causeway and the City of Belfast
Your first stop en route to Belfast will be Giant’s Causeway. A tour in the new Visitor Center will unlock some of the mysteries surrounding this Unesco World Heritage Site formed over 60 million years ago. Next, enjoy lunch in the town of Bushmills before continuing on to Belfast. Next enjoy a guided tour of industrial Belfast City. Europa Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Industrial Belfast City
Begin your exploration at Corrymeela Retreat Centre. Dedicated to promoting reconciliation and peace building through the healing of social, religious and political divisions in Northern Ireland. Colin Craig, executive director of the Center, will be hosting a talk. Next join chief librarian John Killen in one of the city’s ancient buildings, Linen Hall Library. This evening former Lord Mayor of Belfast, and Sinn Féin politician, author and businessman Måirton O Muilleoir will join the group for dinner. Expect an evening of intellectual discussions on the recent history of Belfast and Northern Ireland. Europa Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 5
Irish Eyes: Belfast to Dublin
Continue back over the border to discover the city of Dublin. Starting with a guided city tour, visit some of the most iconic sites including the elegant Georgian squares dotted around the city; Phoenix Park and its monuments plus Christchurch. Following lunch, tour Trinity College. Stephens Green Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 7
May 31 Departure Former London and Baghdad bureau chief for The New York Times, John F. Burns is the longest-serving foreign correspondent in The Times’s history and a two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize. For more than 30 years he has been a fearless representative in embattled regions — from South Africa during apartheid to the siege of Sarajevo and then to Iraq before and after the war. Douglas Dalby October 4 Departure Times journalist, with a focus on politics.
The Peace Process
The morning embark on a walking tour of the largely Republican Falls Road and the predominantly Loyalist Shankill Road. Joined by both Loyalist and Republican ex-combatants, you will gain a unique insight into some of the happenings here during the Troubles. Next, visit the 17th century Crumlin Road Gaol. The group will later reconvene to visit the Stormont Parliament Buildings. Following your tour, enjoy a private dinner in the Member’s Long Gallery. Europa Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
Featured Expert: John F. Burns
and then visit the An Post Museum to explore the Letters, Lives and Liberty exhibition. Today will culminate with a traditional Irish experience at O’Connell’s restaurant in Donnybrook. The owner, Tom O’Connell will join you for a welcome drink as a traditional Irish fiddler plays. Stephens Green Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 8
So Long, But Never Farewell
Transfer to Dublin International Airport for flights home. Meals: B
Dublin’s Political Past
Meet with Simon O’Connor, the curator of the Little Museum of Dublin, for a private tour. Next, move onto Leinster House, where The National Parliament (Oireachtas) is located. Spend some time in the National Museum of Ireland
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
MAY 31, 2015 – JUNE 7, 2015
$5,695
$725
N/A
John F. Burns
OCT 4, 2015 – OCT 11, 2015
$5,695
$725
N/A
Douglas Dalby
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
49
Cuba. The Time Is Now: A People-to-People Experience Both frozen in time and poised for change, this nation has intrigued Americans even as they were threatened by its Soviet partner. At the cusp of normalized relations with the United States, Cuba remains an enigma. Times Journeys’ trips to Cuba are permitted by a special Peopleto-People license for The New York Times from the Department of Treasury’s Foreign Assets Control. Arts & Culture Travellers 25 Places visited Havana, Viñales and Las Terrazas Itinerary 9 days, 8 nights 1 Miami — a Stepping Stone to Cuba 2 Hop to Havana 3 The Crumbling Beauty of Habana Vieja 4 Cuba’s Lush Countryside — Las Terrazas 5 Cuba’s Lush Countryside — Viñales 6 Return to Havana 7 A Land of Changes 8 Havana’s Moment 9 Return to Miami
Itinerary DAY 1
Arrive in Miami and check into the Sofitel Miami airport hotel. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception and a lively, thought-provoking panel discussion. A Miami Airport based hotel, Meals: None
Journey Highlights • Visit the timeless city of Havana accompanied by local experts in the fields of art and economy • Visit Las Terrazas, a sustainable community in the mountains of Sierra del Rosario, a Unesco-designated Biosphere Reserve • Meet with a representative from the U.S. Interests Section to discuss the complexities of U.S.–Cuba relations
Expert Insight “I’ve been traveling to Cuba since 1978 and with every return I look forward to what is new, and what — like the cars, the architecture and the beauty of the Cuban people — remains forever unchanged.” — Anthony DePalma North America
Miami — a Stepping Stone to Cuba
DAY 2
Hop to Havana
Board your group flight from Miami to Havana. Enjoy a tour of the city followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Later meet for a welcome dinner. Hotel Parque Central, Meals: L, D DAY 3
The Crumbling Beauty of Habana Vieja
This morning, meet with an urban planner and architect to discuss the challenges of restoring Havana’s colonial architecture. Afterward, take a walking tour of Habana Vieja, or “Old Havana.” This afternoon, visit the Museum of Fine Arts for a guided tour led by two Cuban art historians. Evening at your leisure. Hotel Parque Central, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Cuba’s Lush Countryside — Las Terrazas
Depart Havana for Las Terrazas, a sustainable community in the mountains of Sierra del Rosario. During lunch at El Romero,
Tour operated by Academic Travel Abroad
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experience the Cuban “farm-to-table” movement and learn about the cooking techniques of Chef Tito Nuñez Carlos Zafra. After lunch, visit the ruins of a colonial coffee plantation and learn about the former glory of the tobacco industry. After dinner, meet the neighborhood’s locals at an informal community gathering. Hotel La Moka, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Cuba’s Lush Countryside — Viñales
Begin the day with an exploration of Viñales Valley. Stop at an operating tobacco farm and meet with campesinos. Visit another “farm-to-table” restaurant and community project, Wilfredo’s Organic Farm. Following lunch, visit the local newspaper of Viñales, Guerrillero. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Hotel La Moka, Meals: B, L DAY 6
Return to Havana
Featured Expert: Anthony DePalma March 13, June 5 Departure Spent 22 years as a reporter and foreign correspondent for The New York Times, focusing most of his attention towards Mexico and Cuba. His book, “The Man Who Invented Fidel,” about U.S.–Cuba relations, was published in 2006. DePalma joins our March departure adding his rare insight to your tour of Cuba.
This morning, visit Amor y Esperanza, a community project working with children with Down syndrome. Head to Jaimanitas, a small seaside neighborhood west of Havana, to visit the extraordinary studio of the artist José Fuster. While here, enjoy a private lunch among his artwork. This afternoon meet with American journalist Marc Frank and a Cuban journalist colleague for a question and answer session. Hotel Parque Central, Meals: B, L DAY 7
A Land of Changes
This morning, meet with a representative from the U.S. Interests Section, to discuss the complexities of U.S.–Cuba relations. Then, visit the University of Havana to meet with a professor of economics. Following lunch, visit Granma, Cuba’s national daily newspaper. Meet with editors and journalists to learn about the paper’s history and its role during the Revolution. Hotel Parque Central, Meals: B, L DAY 8
Frances Robles April 24 Departure New York Times journalist and former Nicaragua and Bogota bureau chief.
will discuss the mission of the organization. After lunch, visit UPEC (Unión de Periodistas de Cuba) to speak with journalist Rosa Miriam Elizalde. Tonight, gather for a farewell reception followed by dinner. Hotel Parque Central, Meals: B, L, D DAY 9
Havana’s Moment
Return to Miami
This morning, check in for your flight back to Miami. Meals: B
Begin the morning with a visit to the National Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba, and meet with Nancy Morejón, a poet and essayist. Next, visit CENESEX (The National Center of Sexual Education) to meet with a representative who
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
MAR 13, 2015 – MAR 21, 2015
$6,495
$850
$525
Anthony DePalma
APR 24, 2015 – MAY 2, 2015
$6,495
$850
$525
Frances Robles
JUN 5, 2015 – JUN 13, 2015
$6,495
$850
$525
Anthony DePalma
OCT 23, 2015 – OCT 31, 2015
$6,495
$850
$525
To be announced
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
51
The Road to Gettysburg Travel back to 1861 and the battlegrounds of America’s bloodiest war: The Civil War. Along with Civil War historian James M. McPherson, relive some of the most evocative military actions of the time. History & Context Travelers 24 Places visited Washington, Antietam, Gettysburg Itinerary 7 days, 6 nights 1 Welcome to Washington 2 Journey into the Battlegrounds 3 The Ferocious Battle of Antietam 4 Antietam: Ghost Stories 5 Gettysburg: Turning Point of the War 6 Gettysburg Continued 7 Washington, D.C.: Farewells
Itinerary
Journey Highlights
DAY 1
• Visit the restored President Lincoln’s Cottage, the retreat where Abraham Lincoln and his family spent part of each year during the Civil War, and where Lincoln developed the Emancipation Proclamation • Walk in the footsteps of the soldiers who fought at the Battle of Antietam. It was the first major battle to take place on Union soil, which resulted in the bloodiest single-day battle in American history • Visit the site where a copy of General Lee’s famous Special Order 191 was accidentally dropped • Join historian Dennis Fry, chief historian at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, to gain insights into the Maryland Campaign of the American Civil War
Expert Insight “I have given many tours of the Gettysburg battlefield to groups ranging from high school students to professional soldiers. Everyone who goes there experiences a powerful emotional bonding between past and present, between the great and terrible events that took place there July 1–3, 1863.” — James McPherson
North America
Welcome to Washington, D.C.
Arrive in Washington, D.C., check in and join your fellow Times travelers for a welcome dinner and a preview of the tour ahead. Loews Madison Hotel, Meals: D DAY 2
Journey into the Battlegrounds
Take a private tour of Lincoln Cottage, the president’s wartime retreat on the edge of Washington, D.C.. Next, head west to Maryland, retracing the route the Union forces took as they marched in pursuit of the Confederate Army back in 1862. Visit the site where a copy of General Lee’s famous Special Order 191 was accidentally dropped, only to be discovered a few days later by a Union soldier, in the fields of Frederick, Md. Later arrive in South Mountain to examine the ground where the Union Corps fought to invade Fox’s Gap, Turner’s Gap and Crampton’s Gap under heavy Confederate resistance. Bavarian Inn, Meals: B, L, D DAY 3
The Ferocious Battle of Antietam
Spend the morning in the strategically placed Harpers Ferry, retracing the steps of Lee’s 1862 invasion and John Brown’s raid of 1859. In the company of expert historian Dennis Fry, chief historian at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, gain insights into the Maryland Campaign of the American Civil War. This afternoon begin your exploration of the Battle of Antietam. Bavarian Inn, Meals: B, L, D
Tour operated by Academic Travel Abroad
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Featured Expert: James McPherson May 15 Departure James M. McPherson taught American history at Princeton University from 1962 to 2004, and frequently took students in his Civil War course to Gettysburg. His books on the Civil War have won numerous prizes, most notably the Pulitzer Prize (1989) for “Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era.” Since his retirement from full-time teaching in 2004, he has continued to lead tours to many Civil War battlefields.
DAY 4
Antietam — Ghost Stories
Dennis Frye will lead the exploration of the battlefield of Antietam. Walk the hallowed ground of the West Woods with a stop in the Dunkard Church and later visit commanding Union General George B. McClellan’s headquarters, Pry House, which he occupied during the Battle of Antietam. This afternoon, join Brien and Chase Poffenberger for refreshments at their historic 18th-century landmark home in Sharpsburg, which was occupied by soldiers during the months after the battle ended. Gettysburg Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Gettysburg — Turning Point of the War
Spend the day on the Gettysburg Battlefield with Professor McPherson. Follow the action of Day One of the battle with stops near Chambersburg Pike, the site of General Reynolds’s death; the famous railroad cut, Oak Hill and Barlow’s Knoll. Next, begin exploring the action of Day Two with stops at the Peach Orchard, the Wheatfield and Devil’s Den. Gettysburg Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 6
Dennis Frye May 15 Departure Chief historian at Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park.
Gettysburg continued
Field. The tour of Gettysburg culminates with the final Confederate assault at “Pickett’s Charge.” Walk in the footsteps of Pickett’s Virginians from Spangler’s Woods across open fields to the copse of trees forever known as the “high-water mark” of the Confederacy. This journey concludes with an evening farewell dinner. Gettysburg Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
Washington, D.C. — Farewells
Return to Washington, D.C., for individual departures. Meals: B
Day Two continues with stops at Seminary Ridge, Little Round Top, Cemetery Ridge, Culp’s Hill, East Cemetery Hill and (if time permits) East Cavalry
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
MAY 15 , 2015 – MAY 21 , 2015
$4,550.00
$1,350.00
N/A
James McPherson, Dennis Frye
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
53
Colombia: Because Reality is Very Different Years of bloodshed behind it, Colombia is ready to show its colorful spirit to the world. See this once-troubled land in a new light. Arts & Culture Travelers 22 Places visited Bogotá, Medellin, Cartagena Itinerary 10 days, 9 nights 1 Bienvenida a Colombia 2 The Art Scene of Bogotá 3 Coffee Capital of The World 4 Cloud Forests and Traditional Mountain Villages 5 The Vibrant City of Medellín 6 Medellín Social Transformation Tour 7 Welcome to the Caribbean 8 Cartagena City Tour 9 Caribbean Cooking and Colombian Dance 10 Fond Farewells
Journey Highlights • Take a trip through the coffee plantations of rural Colombia guided by local coffee experts
Itinerary
• Explore the bustling art scene of Bogotá • Cartagena de Indias: Visit the food market Bazurto; partake in a cooking class and try a few Salsa steps
DAY 1
Bienvenida a Colombia
• Trek in to the cloud forests of Colombia
Arrive in the country’s capital city of Bogotá. Relax and recuperate from your flight before meeting with your fellow Times Journey travelers for a welcome dinner. Hotel Sofitel Victoria Regia, Meals: D
Expert Insight
DAY 2
“I’ve been to Colombia many times over the past 35 years, but never when it’s at peace. You’re going to be seeing a country very different from the one I knew, and I’m looking forward to pointing out those changes.” — Larry Rohter
South America
The Art Scene of Bogotá
Start your exploration of Bogotá today. First, visit the southern part of the city, the historic district of La Candelaria. Next, explore the Gold Museum. Then, visit Monserratte to see stunning views over Bogotá. Following lunch and subject to availability, meet with local artists working in a six-story modern building. Hotel Sofitel Victoria Regia, Meals: B, L, D DAY 3
Coffee Capital of the World
From Bogotá, you will take a short flight to Armenia followed by a scenic drive out into the rolling coffee-carpeted hills of Colombia. A tour of Café San Alberto will reveal the journey of the coffee bean from seedling to coffee cup. Hotel Casa de Los Nogales, Meals: B, L, D
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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DAY 4
Today, visit the beautiful Valle Cocora. The guide will offer insights into the culture of the region and how small pueblos (villages) form the backbone of rural agricultural life. Enjoy a four/five hour trek into the cloud forest or a relaxing nature walk through the valley. Lunch will be enjoyed in a mountainside, local restaurant before traveling to the pleasant time-frozen village of Salento famed for its handicrafts. Hotel Casa de Los Nogales, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
The Vibrant City of Medellín
Depart Cocora for a three-hour flight to Medellín. This once dark, underground city filled with street gangs and drug smuggling has cleaned up its act and can now proudly boast being one of the safest cities in the whole of South America. Hotel Park 10, Meals: B, D DAY 6
Featured Expert: Alan Riding
Cloud Forests and Traditional Mountain Villages
November 21 Departure Once chased out of Medellin by the infamous drug baron Pablo Escobar, Riding has a lot of stories to share with our August travelers. An author today, his career at The Times spanned 30 years, including five years as the bureau chief in Paris. He has covered everything from the El Salvadoran civil war to the Nicaraguan revolution.
Medellín Social Transformation Tour
Larry Rohter August 15 Departure Times journalist and our former Latin America correspondent.
Start the day with a visit to the working-class area of San Javier. The guide will lead you onto the city’s metro and cable car system lending excellent views of the region. Once at the top you will be in the heart of one of Medellin's poorer regions where you will find Parque Biblioteca España (Spanish Library). After lunch, visit the Museum of Antioquia and the “Parque Berrio” plus enjoy a ride in the cable car to Santo Domingo. Hotel Park 10, Meals: B, L DAY 7
DAY 9
Welcome to the Caribbean
Following breakfast, travel to the Caribbean coastal city of Cartagena via a short flight. Hotel Sofitel Santa Clara, Meals: B, D DAY 8
Cartagena City Tour
Following breakfast, visit the largest Spanish fortification in the Americas. Based in the old town, Castillo San Felipe dominates the skyline. Next, head to Convento La Popa. Following a traditional Colombian lunch, take a walking tour of the historic old town. You will also enjoy a private lecture given by an expert on Colombian architecture held at Casa Rafael Nunez. Hotel Sofitel Santa Clara, Meals: B, L
Caribbean Cooking and Colombian Dance
Today, visit the local food market Bazurto where you will buy the ingredients needed to prepare some tasty local fare for our next treat — a traditional cooking class in a beautifully restored private residence. Next, enjoy a private Salsa dance class. Following an afternoon at leisure, enjoy a special dusk horse and carriage ride. Hotel Sofitel Santa Clara, Meals: B, L, D DAY 10
Fond Farewells
Following a hearty breakfast your guide will transport you to Cartagena airport for your onwards travel. Meals: B
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
MAY 30, 2015 – JUN 8, 2015
$5,795
$1,100
$350
To be announced
AUG 15, 2015 – AUG 24, 2015
$5,795
$1,100
$350
Larry Rohter
NOV 21, 2015 – NOV 30, 2015
$5,795
$1,100
$350
Alan Riding
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
55
The Galápagos: Evolution in Action Traveling to the Galápagos Islands is like stumbling across another world — one where the animal kingdom rules and humans are merely alien tourists. Explore the world’s most fascinating wildlife destination while cruising in air-conditioned comfort aboard the Galaxy, a 16-passenger motor yacht. Science & Nature Travelers 15 Places visited Quito, San Cristobal Island, Sullivan Bay & Bartolomé Itinerary 11 days, 10 nights 1–2 Quito 3 Baltra and Mosquera Islands 4 Sullivan Bay and Bartolomé 5 Genovesa Island 6 San Cristobal Island 7 Española Island 8 Floreana Island 9 Santa Fe and South Plaza Islands 10 Santa Cruz Islands and Charles Darwin Research Station 11 Fly Home or Continue on to Extension
Journey Highlights • Hike to the top of Bartolomé Island • Snorkel with Galápagos sea lions, green sea turtles and endemic Galápagos penguins • Visit Española Island, breeding site of the waved albatross • Visit the famous Charles Darwin Research Station • Check for mail at the famous Post Office barrel in Floreana Island
DAY 1
Galaxy Yacht The 35-meter motor yacht Galaxy offers 16 passengers luxury accommodation across nine spacious cabins. Each cabin boasts private facilities including en suite bathrooms, cold/hot water; air conditioning; hair dryer; telephone for internal communication on board and safe box. The yacht's communal areas consist of a dining area, lounge, bar and small library. Onboard, guests can also take advantage of snorkel gear (mask, tube and fins) and kayaks. Deck Plans: See page 93
Arrive in Quito
Arrive in Quito, Ecuador. Our representative will meet you outside the customs and immigration area at the airport. Swissôtel. DAY 2
Accommodation
South America
Itinerary
Quito City Tour
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day guided sightseeing tour of colonial Quito, to include Independence Plaza, the government palace, the archbishop’s palace, and the cathedral. You will also visit a number of churches too including La Compañia. Afternoon at leisure. Swissôtel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 3
Baltra and Mosquera Islands
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and depart for Baltra Island, Galápagos National Park. Meet your
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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naturalist guide who will escort you to the main dock to board the Galaxy. Spend the afternoon on the island of Mosquera to see large colonies of Sea Lions on the archipelago. Spend some time strolling on the beautiful white sand beach before returning to the Galaxy for cocktails and dinner. Galaxy, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
Sullivan Bay and Bartolomé
In the morning, we begin at Sullivan Bay. You will walk on recent, black pahoehoe lava flows and see some of the early colonizing plants — mollugo and brachycereus — struggling to gain a foothold in tiny cracks in the lava. After lunch, we visit iconic Bartolomé. This is an exceptional place to observe volcanic island geology and to snorkel. Galaxy, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Genovesa Island
We explore the cliffs on a panga ride en route to Prince Phillip’s Steps, also known as the El Barranco. We may see the white tails of the red-billed tropic birds sticking out of cliff-face nests. After a climb up to the plateau, we see nesting nazca and red-footed boobies and frigate birds. Next, head to Darwin’s Bay, a protected bay in a volcanic crater. Galaxy, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
San Cristobal Island
Today, visit the island of San Cristobal and the simple village of Baquerizo Moreno, the administrative capital of the Galápagos. We will visit the Interpretation Center and then head to the highlands and El Junco. Next, visit Isla Lobos to see blue-footed boobies, common frigate birds and two species of sea lions. Galaxy, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
Española Island
This morning, visit Punta Suáre to witness the millions of birds nesting on the island. After lunch, we visit the great white sand beach at Gardner Bay. Take a long walk, jog in the surf, swim, snorkel or stretch out on the sand for a snooze with the sea lions. Sea turtles nest here, too. Galaxy, Meals: B, L, D
DAY 8
Floreana Island
On Floreana Island, we will take a short trip to visit historic Post Office Bay. Later this day we’ll land on the sandy beach of Punta Cormorant, locally called “Green Beach,” due to its volcanic olivine crystals. Galaxy, Meals: B, L, D DAY 9
Santa Fe and South Plaza Islands
We spend a fascinating half-day on Santa Fé, the island home to very large land iguanas, and the largest of the Opuntia cacti. We will spend some time at the lagoon for swimming and snorkeling, too. Galaxy, Meals: B, L, D DAY 10 Santa Cruz Islands and Charles Darwin Research Station
On our last day in the “Enchanted” Islands, we head to the town of Puerto Ayora and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here you will learn about the conservation efforts to restore giant tortoise populations to their original islands. Finally, transfer by ferry to Baltra to fly back to Quito. Swissôtel, Meals: B
Fly Home or Continue on to Extension DAY 11
Transfer to the airport for homeward-bound flight, or join one of our extensions in Ecuador or Peru! Meals: B
The blue-footed boobie is named after its brightly colored feet; almost half of the world’s breeding pairs are found in the Galapágos.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
JAN 7, 2016 – JAN 17, 2016
$6,395 (11-15 guests)
$3,200
$535
To be announced
$6,895 (9-10 guests) Upon arrival, $20 must be paid for the Galápagos Transit control card.
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
57
The White Continent: Fly and Sail Antarctica
Retrace the footprints of some of the world’s greatest polar explorers on this eight-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula, in the company of Henry Fountain, New York Times science journalist. Avoid the stormy waters of the Drake Passage and fly from Chile directly to King George Island where you board your ship. Science & Nature Travelers 71 Places visited Chile, King George Island, Lemaire Channel, Paradise Bay, Deception Bay Itinerary 8 days, 7 nights 1 Welcome to Punta Arenas, Chile 2 Journey to Antarctica 3 Cuverville Island 4 Paradise Bay 5 Lemaire Channel 6 Deception Bay 7 Fond Farewells to the Antarctic 8 End of the Road
South America
Journey Highlights • Spend the holidays in a real winter wonderland of snow and ice, during this fly and cruise expedition • Fly direct to King George Island from Punta Arenas and spend 6 full days in Antarctica • With a ratio of 17 guides per 71 people, guests receive a personalized schedule adhering to their particular interests. Chat onboard with ornithologists, geologists and polar historians ensuring all of our ports of call are put into context • Sail down narrow passages carved through 700meter high ice walls. The water can be so still that perfect reflections are mirrored on the surface. Gigantic icebergs often choke the channel, creating navigational issues for our captain, but breathtaking photo moments • Get out on the kayaks, or go snowshoeing into the remote wilderness in small groups. The silence and majesty of the continent will be further enhanced
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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Featured Expert: Henry Fountain December 21 Departure Henry Fountain has been a reporter and editor at The New York Times for two decades, and is currently one of several reporters at The Times covering climate change and other environmental issues. For 10 years, he wrote “Observatory,” a weekly column on scientific research. Before coming to The Times, he worked for The International Herald Tribune in Paris; he has also written for Scientific American and Smithsonian.
Accommodation M/V Sea Explorer
Expert Insight
M/V Sea Explorer is an all-suite luxury vessel built to withstand the harsh conditions of the Antarctic without sacrificing comfort and elegance. With a capacity for 110 guests, no Times Journey trip will exceed 71. Deck Plans: See page 94.
“Antarctica is such a fascinating place, with landscapes and life-forms found nowhere else on the planet. I’m looking forward to exploring its mysteries with Times readers.” — Henry Fountain Itinerary DAY 1
Welcome to Punta Arenas, Chile
Welcome to Punta Arenas, Chile. This city is one of Chile's largest, and the jumping off point for explorers, researchers and expedition vessels intent on Antarctica. Expect to be welcomed and transferred to your hotel, where a briefing will outline regulations on safety and environmental concerns that need to be adhered to while in Antarctica. Later, relax with your fellow travelers for a true Chilean dining experience, sampling local fare. Hotel Cabo de Hornos. Meals: D DAY 2
Journey to Antarctica
A two-hour flight takes you from the urban metropolis of Punta Arenas to the crisp clean air of King George Island, the largest isle of the South Shetland
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
59
The White Continent: Fly and Sail Antarctica
Islands. Before boarding your sea-faring home, expedition yacht Sea Explorer, take time to explore. Along with your expert guides, you will be invited to visit Chile’s Frei Station and the Russian Bellingshausen station. See a diverse variety of wildlife, too, including elephant, Weddell and leopard seals; Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins. Finally, board your Zodiac tender and embark expedition yacht Sea Explorer. M/V Sea Explorer, Meals: B, L, D DAY 3
Cuverville Island
Here, tick the gentoo penguin off your wildlife-spotting list. A large colony has been resident for many years, sparking a Scott Polar Institute research group to monitor the impact tourism has had here. We will continue to cruise past feeding humpbacks before returning for more lectures and a hearty meal onboard. M/V Sea Explorer, Meals: B, L, D
South America
DAY 4
Paradise Bay
On the main land, Paradise Bay (or Paradise Harbor, as it is also known) is ideal to explore by Zodiac. The craggy coastline is filled with nesting seabirds. Look out for blue-eyed shags, terns and gulls, and glaciated mountains. Alongside the Zodiac, breeching whales swim so close their fishy-scented blow can momentarily actually blur our vision. Follow one of the mountain guides and you will be rewarded with perfect 360-degree panoramas of the neighboring islands. M/V Sea Explorer, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Lemaire Channel
The Lemaire Channel is one of the rarest sights in the explored world. We will cruise through an icy narrow passage, often impassably ice-choked, bordered by
Tour operated by Mountain Travel Sobek
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DAY 6
Deception Bay
Weather permitting we will sail through the narrow Neptune’s Bellow to reach the flooded volcanic crater. Here we can explore the abandoned whaling station, an old British base, or hike to the rim of the crater. Back at sea level, we will visit the site where tens of thousands of white-faced chinstrap penguins pair off for the summer mating season. M/V Sea Explorer, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
Fond Farewells to the Antarctic
Arrive back on the island of King George ready to board your flight to Punta Arenas. There will be some time for personal exploration before bidding one last farewell and taking the two-hour flight to Chile. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the last supper. Hotel Cabo de Hornos, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
End of the Road
Following breakfast with your new friends, depart the hotel for your onward or homeward bound travel. Meals: B Of Special Note: This is an expedition to a remote part of the world. The specific locations visited in Antarctica can change and will depend on weather, sea conditions and other operational considerations.
mountain walls jutting out of the sea hundreds of feet into the air. Wildlife-spotting opportunities are in abundance here, so keep an eye out for minkes, orcas and humpback whales skulking the underwater world, and leopard and crabeater seals that sometimes frequent the ice floes. M/V Sea Explorer, Meals: B, L, D
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
DEC 21, 2015 – DEC 28, 2015
Superior suite $15,695 Veranda suite $17,695 Penthouse Suite $20,695
N/A
N/A
Henry Fountain
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
61
The Two Sides of Southern Africa Botswana and South Africa. Safaris and apartheid. Learn about and witness (sometimes in shock, other times in awe), these extreme contrasts, as you journey through these southern African countries. Science & Nature Travelers 16 Places visited Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Okavango Delta Itinerary 12 days, 11 nights 1 Cape Town, South Africa 2 Cape Town and its Vineyards 3 The Cape of Good Hope 4 Botswana and the Okavango Delta 5 Botswana and the Okavango Delta 6 The “predator capital” of Africa, Moremi, Botswana 7 Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana 8–9 Chobe National Park 10–11 Livingstone and Victoria Falls, Zambia 12 Farewell
Journey Highlights • Enjoy a guided tour of the famous Victoria Falls • Journey to the summit of the 3,559-foot Table Mountain by cable car • Interact with semi-habituated elephants
Itinerary DAY 1
Begin the Journey in Cape Town, South Africa
• Head out on a safari led by expert guides
Arrive in Cape Town, where an Abercrombie & Kent representative will meet you and your fellow Times travelers and transfer you to the Vineyard Hotel and Spa. The rest of your day is at leisure. Vineyard Hotel and Spa, Meals: None
Expert Insight
DAY 2
Cape Town and its Vineyards
“Having covered South Africa for the NYT when the fortress of apartheid began to tumble, then returned to see Mandela walk to freedom in 1990, traveling back to the country 20 years into its new life as a majority rule democracy will be a delight.” — John Fisher Burns
This morning, and weather permitting, journey to the summit of the 3,559-foot Table Mountain by cable car. Following descent, take a gentle walk through the tranquil Company Gardens visiting the Houses of Parliament, National Art Gallery and National Library. Next, meander over to the Castle of Good Hope, a pentagonal fortification built between 1666 and 1679. The afternoon is dedicated to the famous wine regions. Start at Constantia, the oldest winemaking region in the southern hemisphere, dating back to 1685. Retire to your hotel for a welcome dinner in the company of a special guest speaker who will share insights on current South African affairs. Vineyard Hotel and Spa, Meals: B, L, D
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Featured Expert: John Fisher Burns September 18, October 10 Departures Former bureau chief in London and Baghdad bureau chief for The New York Times. John F. Burns is the longest-serving foreign correspondent in the Times’s history and a two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize. For more than 30 years, he has been a fearless representative in embattled regions — from South Africa during apartheid to the siege of Sarajevo and then to Iraq before and after the war. Alan Cowell August 8 Departure Times journalist with a special interest in South African politics.
DAY 4
DAY 3
The Natural Wonders of the Cape of Good Hope
Today, embark on a full-day tour to the southern-most section of Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point. Expect to climb the steps or ride the funicular railway (the Flying Dutchman) to see whales, dolphins and a variety of seabirds at the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and visit the colony of endangered jackass penguins at Boulders. After lunch, it’s off to Kirstenbosch, the world-renowned National Botanical Garden, where a local, private guide will share some of the more fascinating aspects of the gardens. The evening is at leisure and dinner is on your own. Vineyard Hotel and Spa, Meals: B, L
Botswana and the Okavango Delta
After breakfast, transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your flight to Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp in Botswana. Here, enjoy two full days of wildlife viewing. During your stay, expect thrilling guided game drives in customized open-sided 4x4 vehicles. Night drives are offered. Also, you can explore the area on foot with skilled, armed professional guides. Depending on water levels, you can enjoy a leisurely water safari in a poled mokoro (dugout canoe) too. Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp (Safari Tent), Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Botswana and the Okavango Delta
Another full day on safari in the Okavango Delta. The unending African sky and the beauty of the delta provide
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63
The Two Sides of Southern Africa Enjoy a photographic sundowner cruise in the unforgettable Chobe National Park, Botswana — home to the largest concentration of elephants in Africa (and the largest species of African elephant), as well as an abundance of hippo, buffalo, antelope and lion — accompanied by local safari guides and New York Times journalists.
a breathtaking setting as you observe and interact with the elephants on a leisurely walk, before enjoying a picnic under the shade of the sausage trees, in their company. Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp (Safari Tent), Meals: B, L, D
The “predator capital” Moremi, Botswana
DAY 6
Today, fly to Sanctuary Chief’s Camp in the Mombo Concession of the Moremi Game Reserve, the “predator capital” of Africa. The private camp boasts luxurious accommodations, as well as a spa offering a range of treatments using Thalgo and Africology products. Once you’re settled, enjoy an afternoon of game viewing with an expert guide. The park is 3,900 square kilometers, made up of land and water, which creates a picturesque preserve of floodplains. This makes for incredible game driving. Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp (Luxury Bush Pavilion), Meals: B, L, D
otherwise requested, in custom-built open 4x4 vehicles, which offer individual seating. The accompanying professional guides are among the best in Botswana. Poled mokoro (dugout canoes) enable you to explore the waterways at a gentle pace, subject to water levels. In the evening, enjoy an unforgettable boma evening under the African stars. Sitting around a fire pit at the very edge of the Piajio plains, you may continue game viewing while enjoying dinner, accompanied by fine wines. Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp (Safari Tent), Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
Today, fly northeast to your next lodgings at Chobe National Park, the second-largest national park in Botswana. The park, wild and untamed, covers a diversity of landscapes ranging from riverine forests to floodplains and periodic marshlands. The area is home to the largest concentration of elephants in Africa (and the largest species of African elephant as well), and an abundance of hippo, buffalo, antelope and lion. Set out on a photographic sundowner cruise in the afternoon to explore the region as the sun goes down. Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero (Luxury Bungalow), Meals: B, L, D DAY 9
DAY 7
Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
Chobe National Park — Sunset Tours
Chobe National Park
Game viewing here is nothing short of spectacular. The area is home to the Big Five: elephant, lion (with a resident pride here), leopard, Cape buffalo and rhino — both black and white rhinos have been introduced here recently too. It’s also renowned for its large concentrations of red lechwes, giraffes, impala and predators such as cheetahs, painted wild dogs and spotted hyenas. Game drives are conducted early morning and late afternoon, or as
Wake early with a sunrise game drive, to catch the animals at their most active, accompanied by highly qualified professional guides in customized open 4x4 game viewing vehicles. Later, opt for another motorized boat safari or sundowner cruise to explore the Chobe River. These customized boats feature 360-degree swivel seats on both the lower and upper decks, offering an exclusive and intimate experience, especially for photographic enthusiasts. Later, experience an interactive cooking demonstration with your lodge chef. Watch as the chef prepares traditional dishes; then try your hand at cooking stations set up for your use. Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero (Luxury Bungalow), Meals: B, L, D
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DAY 10
Livingstone and Victoria Falls, Zambia
This morning, journey overland to the Victoria Falls. Later, enjoy a Sundowner Cruise on the Zambezi River. The Zambezi River above the Victoria Falls is abundant in bird life and hippos, crocodiles and other game too. You will not actually see the Falls today — that is reserved for tomorrow. However, bring along cameras for the spectacular sunsets and binoculars if you are a keen birder. Return to the hotel for dinner at the Jungle Junction Restaurant within the hotel. Victoria Falls Hotel (Deluxe Central Room), Meals: B, L, D DAY 11
Of Special Note: Passport Pages: You will need a minimum of nine blank pages in your passport (excluding amendment pages) available for entry and exit stamps during this tour. Additional blank pages are always a prudent precaution.
ACCOMODATIONS
Vineyard Hotel and Spa (Mountain Deluxe Room) With over 200 years of history within its walls, the Vineyard Hotel and Spa is a fourstar deluxe hotel, situated in six acres of attractive landscaped parkland, in the lush leafy suburb of Newlands on the banks of the Liesbeeck River.
Livingstone and Victoria Falls, Zambia
This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour of the famous Victoria Falls, one of the great natural wonders of the world. The Falls truly envelop you with their physical presence and never fail to impress even the most experienced traveler. As you walk through the rain forest, stopping at various viewing points, you are likely to see an abundance of bird life, as well as bushbuck, monkeys, baboons and families of mongoose. The afternoon is at leisure. Gather this evening with your fellow travelers for a special farewell dinner at the Livingstone Room Restaurant. A perfect opportunity to toast your journey, swap stories and share experiences. Victoria Falls Hotel (Deluxe Central Room), Meals: B, L, D DAY 12
Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp (Safari Tent) A classic tented camp located on a private concession in the Okavango Delta offering fantastic game drives. Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp (Luxury Bush Pavilion) Sanctuary Chief’s Camp is located in the heart of the Okavango Delta and sits silent among the glassy waters of the seasonal floodwaters. Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero (Luxury Bungalow) This luxury resort sits high above the Chobe River offering unrivaled panoramas over the nearby islands and plains.
Farewell
This final morning, transfer to the airport to board a flight to Johannesburg or Tambo International Airport, where an Abercrombie & Kent representative will assist you with your onward flight. The Premier Lounge is available to A&K passengers and offers a quiet place for relaxation in preparation for your international flight. It includes showers, Internet access, TV, refreshments and reading materials. Meals: B
Victoria Falls Hotel (Deluxe Central Room) An authentic colonial hotel with over 100 years of heritage sitting on the verge of the Victoria Falls rain forest.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
JUN 18, 2015 – JUN 29, 2015
$15,195
$4,895
$2,315
To be announced
JUL 6, 2015 – JUL 17, 2015
$15,195
$4,895
$2,315
To be announced
AUG 8, 2015 – AUG 19, 2015
$15,195
$4,895
$2,315
Alan Cowell
SEPT 18, 2015 – SEPT 29, 2015
$15,195
$4,895
$2,315
John Fisher Burns
OCT 10, 2015 – OCT 21, 2015
$15,195
$4,895
$2,315
John Fisher Burns
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65
The Wilderness Within: Kenya and Tanzania Welcome to East Africa on this unforgettable journey focusing on wildlife and photography. Join expert safari guides and stay in the region’s most luxurious dwellings. Science & Nature Travelers 12 Places visited Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti Itinerary 11 days, 10 nights 1 Welcome to Kenya 2 Out of Africa — Nairobi 3 The Vast Plains of the Mara 4 Mara Safari Drive — Day One 5 Safari Game Drive — Day Two 6 Welcome to Tanzania 7 Ngorongoro Crater 8 Serengeti National Park 9 The Great Serengeti — Day One 10 The Great Serengeti — Day Two 11 Farewells
Journey Highlights • Over dinner, talk with a professional safari photographer who will help improve the photos you shoot during the trip • Take a game drive into the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania as you search for the Big Five • Talk with Maasai tribesmen to learn about their lives and traditions, including the unusual jumping ritual
Itinerary DAY 1
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where you are met and transferred to the oldest hotel in Nairobi, the prestigious Fairmont The Norfolk. Fairmont The Norfolk, Meals: None
• Learn vital tracking tips from the world’s greatest safari leaders
DAY 2
Expert Insight “The Maasai Mara is one of the most spectacular places I’ve seen, and it’s not just the animals, it’s the land, or the feeling I get. The longer I’ve lived in Africa, the more I appreciate how fragile and endangered all this really is.” — Jeffrey Gettleman
Africa
Welcome to Kenya
Out of Africa — Nairobi
Join your fellow Times travelers for a tour briefing presented by a professional safari guide over breakfast. The adventure begins at the exquisitely preserved Karen Blixen Museum and grounds located in what was once Blixen’s coffee plantation and estate. Next, visit the Giraffe Center to observe these gentle giants at eye level from a raised platform, then hand-feed them while watching the semi-tame family of warthogs. End the afternoon with a visit to the famous Daphne Sheldrick Animal Orphanage. The day will culminate with a welcome dinner in the company of a professional safari photographer who will impart some vital tips on safari photography. Fairmont The Norfolk, Meals: B, D
Tour operated by Abercrombie & Kent
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Featured Expert: Jeffrey Gettleman September 11 Departure Jeffrey Gettleman is the East Africa bureau chief for The New York Times. He won a Pulitzer Prize in 2012 for his coverage of Somalia and Sudan. His work has appeared in GQ, Foreign Policy, The New York Review of Books and other publications. He studied philosophy at Cornell before winning a Marshall Scholarship to Oxford. He lives with his wife and two boys in Nairobi and is currently writing a memoir about his experiences in Africa and beyond. Tim Neville August 19 Departure Tim Neville is a seasoned journalist, who focuses on travel writing. Ray Bonner October 15 Departure Ray Bonner is a foreign correspondent for The New York Times.
DAY 3
The Vast Plains of the Mara
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board a flight to the great Maasai Mara. On arrival at the Kichwa Tembo airstrip take the short transfer to your luxury-tented camp; you are now in the Maasai Mara, so expect game viewing en route. Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4
Mara Safari Drive — Day One
The jewel in Africa’s crown, Maasai Mara plays host to the most spectacular array of wildlife. The 1,510 square kilometers of open savannah, woodlands and treelined rivers create an eco-system that supports huge numbers of bird and mammal species. On your first game drive look out for lion, elephant, giraffe, a variety of gazelle species and zebra. Cheetah and leopard are also regularly seen and, if lucky, you may also see rhino. Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
Safari Game Drive — Day Two
Your second day out on safari will take you to a different section of the Mara in which you will have the opportunity to sharpen your photography skills as you hopefully get a glimpse of the Big Five. The Safari leaders are experts in knowing the movements of the animals in the region and therefore can often predict
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67
The Wilderness Within: Kenya and Tanzania
where each species will be hiding by analyzing the time of day and/ or weather conditions. In the evening, join the camp’s chef who will provide a cooking demonstration of a local dish utilizing fresh organic herbs from the hotel’s garden. If you wish, try making it yourself after. Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
Welcome to Tanzania
Bid farewell to the Kichwa Tembo this morning and board the first of your flights to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. On arrival in Arusha, enjoy lunch at The Arusha Coffee Lodge before continuing overland to the Ngorongoro Crater. Late afternoon arrival at Ngorongoro Crater. Gibbs Farm, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
Ngorongoro Crater
Today’s game drive will be like no other as you visit one of the most dramatic safari destinations in Africa, the Ngorongoro Crater.
Africa
Descend to the crater floor in search of the Big Five. Old elephants pass your vehicle, while further afield rhino wander and hippos hide in the pools. A picnic lunch in the canopy is provided so you can maximize your day in the crater. You will also visit a traditional Maasai village to enjoy a performance of traditional dance, before returning to your lodge for dinner. Gibbs Farm, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
Serengeti National Park
Today, journey into the Serengeti National Park with a stop in Olduvai Gorge. Olduvai Gorge contains some of the world’s most important archaeological finds, including the 3.7-million-year-old footsteps of Australopithecus Afarensis and the skull of 1.8-millionyear-old Man (Zinjanthropus Boisei). Stop for game viewing along the way and arrive at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge in time for lunch. Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Meals: B, L, D
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DAY 9
The Great Serengeti — Day One
One of the world’s last great wildlife refuges, the Serengeti stretches between the Ngorongoro Highlands and Lake Victoria. The name comes from the Maasai word siringet, meaning “endless plains.” As with all safari journey’s the itinerary for game drives is never set in stone so you decide when you want to go; the choices are usually early morning or at dusk. Wildlife spotting is abundant in both. However, to eliminate the fear of missing something — every drive will offer something different — so head along to all. Following a day of game drives relax in the infinity pool and Anantara Spa at the hotel. Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Meals: B, L, D DAY 10
Take a photography lesson with an expert safari photographer to ensure you are perfectly poised to get that hero shot. ACCOMMODATIONS
Fairmont The Norfolk Fairmont The Norfolk first opened its doors on Christmas Day 1904 and has since welcomed a host of celebrities and royalty. Centrally located, but on a quiet street, this hotel fuses the traditions of Colonial East Africa with modern Nairobi.
The Great Serengeti — Day Two
Day two, and your final day on Safari, will offer further exploration of the Serengeti’s vast plains. Being 14,763 square kilometers and containing in the region of three million large animals, every drive will reveal something new. Depending on the time of year, it may be possible to witness the great migrations. Triggered by the rains, over 1.3 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebra and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelle gather to undertake the long trek to new grazing lands. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers. Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Meals: B, L, D DAY 11
Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp Kichwa Tembo is a permanent tented camp located deep in the monkey-filled forest next to the Oloololo Escarpment on the banks of the Sabaringo River. Each luxury tent offers spectacular views over the Maasai Mara or the river. Gibbs Farm Gibbs Farm is an oasis of tranquility located on the plains next to the densely forested slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater. It is fitted with a roaring fire, country-style bedrooms and serves fresh home-cooked food.
Farewells
The Four Seasons Safari Lodge The Four Seasons Safari Lodge offers luxurious accommodations; each room boasts a private verandah, offering incredible panoramas over the plains of the Serengeti.
This morning, board a light aircraft flight from Seronera to Kilimanjaro, where you connect to your flight to Nairobi, Kenya. The balance of the day is at leisure to do some last-minute shopping or to repack for the return journey. Fairmont The Norfolk (day room), Meals: B, boxed lunch
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
JUN 12, 2015 – JUN 23, 2015
$14,495
$3,795
$1,525
To be announced
JUL 16, 2015 – JUL 27, 2015
$14,495
$3,795
$1,525
To be announced
AUG 19, 2015 – AUG 30, 2015
$14,495
$3,795
$1,525
Tim Neville
SEP 11, 2015 – SEP 22, 2015
$14,495
$3,795
$1,525
Jeffrey Gettleman
OCT 15, 2015 – OCT 26, 2015
$14,495
$3,795
$1,525
Ray Bonner
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
69
A Taste of the Orient: Discover China Flying monks, a 3-night Yangtze river cruise, a visit to a local family. The list of experiences is extensive, and that’s before the interviews you’ll observe from our accompanying experts. History & Context Travelers 18 Places visited Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, The Great Wall Itinerary 14 days,13 nights 1–2 Beijing 3 The Great Wall and the Hutongs 4 Symbols of Beijing 5 The Flying Monks 6 Southern Silk Route 7 Panda Conservation 8–10 The Yangtze River 11 Three Gorges Project 12 Venice of the East — Shanghai 13 Bullet Train 14 Ride the Magnetic Levitation Train
Journey Highlights • Travel to the Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section with cable car up and toboggan down • Gain access to a closed hall at the Forbidden City • Meet with monks and learn their traditions • Admire the gentle giants at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Center • Enjoy a three-night cruise on the Yangtze River on board the luxurious Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer,’ with private shore excursions • Visit Shaolin temple and meet the famous "flying monks," before viewing an exclusive martial arts performance
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Tour operated by Abercrombie & Kent
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Featured Expert: Richard Bernstein
Expert Insight “I’ve been traveling to China since 1972 and I’m always fascinated to see how the country is changing. I’m excited about this trip as a way of seeing things that everybody should see in their lifetimes.” — Richard Bernstein
Accommodation The Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer Every cabin on this luxurious and intimate ship has full-length windows, a balcony and en s uite bathroom. Deck Plans: See page 95.
Itinerary DAY 1
May 21, August 27 Departures was one of the first American journalists to be stationed in the People’s Republic of China, opening Time magazine’s bureau in Beijing in 1980. He subsequently spent 25 years at The New York Times, posted to more than two dozen countries and writing nine books. Mr. Bernstein will conduct interviews with residents of the Hutongs in Beijing and again with the monks residing in the Shaolin Temple. All guests will be able to observe the interviews and speak with Richard to gain a greater understanding of life in China.
Watch Video
Beijing: Welcome to the Land of The Red Dragon
Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport. After disembarking, be welcomed by an airport representative who will accompany you through VIP Fast Track Immigrations, assist with claiming your baggage and transfer you through to the New World Beijing hotel. New World Hotel, Meals: None DAY 2
Tony Clifton March 26 Departure Former war correspondent.
Beijing: The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
Following a short briefing, begin your tour with a trip to the Forbidden City, including access to the publicly closed hall of Chong Hua Gong. Next, your expert guide will lead a tour of Tiananmen Square, including the Great Hall of the People and the mausoleum of Mao Zedong. The day will conclude with a welcome gala dinner. New World Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 3
The Great Wall and the Hutongs
Today, travel northeast from Beijing to view one of the Great Wonders: the Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall. After lunch, visit the incredible Summer Palace and its enchanting Chinese Garden. In an exclusive chance to experience the flavors of Beijing’s past, the afternoon will culminate with a visit to a family’s home in the Hutongs of Beijing accompanied by a journalist or Times-selected expert. New World Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Symbols of Beijing
Wander the grounds of the Temple of Heaven, observing life in Beijing today; visit the vibrant Panjiayuan (Weekend) Market, known locally as the “Ghost market.” Following lunch, a short flight will transfer you to Luoyang, Henan
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71
A Taste of the Orient: Discover China
Enjoy a three-night cruise on board the luxurious Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer’ as it meanders down the Yangtze River. Experience the Three Gorges Dam Project, speak to the river-dwelling folk and admire the stunning scenery.
Province, for a visit to the White Horse Temple, or Bai Ma — rumored to be the first monastery in China. Le Royal Hotel Mudu, Meals: B DAY 5
The Flying Monks
This morning, learn the legend of the Flying Monks, with a visit to the Shaolin Temple. Along with our accompanying expert, meet the monks and tour the monastery to gain further insight into their beliefs. Following lunch you will journey to the sacred Song Shan Mountain, where the Zhongyue Temple lies. Le Royal Hotel Mudu, Meals: B, L DAY 6
Southern Silk Route
You will spend the day traveling across the stunning scenery of rural China to Chengdu — the start of the Southern Silk Road. We will make stops along the way to admire the impressive vistas. Sheraton Chengdu Lido, Meals: B, L DAY 7
Panda Conservation
The day will begin with a visit to the 600-acre Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Center to witness the habits of these gentle giants before re-entering the wild. Following lunch, head over to one of the most exciting new museums in China, Sanxingdui Museum. After dinner, attend a local show to witness one of China’s oldest operas: a Face Changing show. Sheraton Chengdu Lido, Meals: B, D DAY 8
River Cruising — The Yangtze River
Today is the start of your three-day river cruise along the Yangtze River aboard the luxurious Sanctuary
Asia
Tour operated by Abercrombie & Kent
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Yangzi Explorer. Stop en route at the Dazu Grottoes. The Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer, Meals: B, L, D DAY 9
Ghost Stories and the Yangtze River
Your first port of call will be the charming village of Fengdu, where you meet with the river folk to hear legends and tales from bygone years. The Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer, Meals: B, L, D
which has a focus on the 16th-century Ming period. Known lovingly as the “Venice of the East.” Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai, Meals: B DAY 13
DAY 14 DAY 10
River Folk and the Three Gorges Dam
Today, the Yangzi Explorer will enter the six-mile-long and 485-feet-wide Qutang Gorge through the majestic Kui Men. This dramatic gorge is lined with sheer 3,900foot cliffs on either side. Next, your captain will navigate into the Wu Gorge. During the evening, the ship will pass through the locks of the Three Gorges Dam Project and continue eastward to Yichang — this usually takes approximately three to four hours. The Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer, Meals: B, L, D DAY 11
Bullet Train
This morning, board the first-class bullet train to Hangzhou. On arrival, proceed to Lingyin Temple, also known as the “Temple of the Soul’s Retreat.” Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai, Meals: B, L
Ride the Magnetic Levitation Train
Before bidding farewell to China and your fellow travelers, get one last taste of modern Shanghai with a trip on the Magnetic Levitation Train. You will transfer to the Long Yang Road Maglev Train Station for an exciting eight-minute ride to Shanghai Pudong Airport Meals: B
ACCOMMODATIONS
New World Beijing Located in the heart of Beijing, this luxury hotel offers an elegant retreat from the busy streets of the city.
Three Gorges Project
Le Royal Hotel Mudu A modern five-star hotel with nods to China’s ancient past, the hotel has a view of a 40-acre garden.
Back on dry land you will be offered the opportunity to visit one of the most controversial dam projects world over with a trip to the Three Gorges Dam Project. Listen to how the project has divided the nation and debate its pros and cons. In the evening, take the short flight to Shanghai. Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai, Meals: B, L, D DAY 12
Sheraton Chengdu Lido Located in the city center, its position is perfect for exploring.
Venice Of The East — Shanghai
Begin the morning in Shanghai with a visit to Yu Garden, a 16th-century Ming period private garden and residence. Proceed to the narrow streets of old Shanghai where you will learn about the current restoration project of the city,
Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai Renovated for the 21st-century, this hotel is a stunning fusion of Art Deco and the traditions and cultures of Shanghai.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE FROM
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
MAR 26, 2015 – APR 8, 2015
$10,395
$2,495
$1,135
Tony Clifton
MAY 21, 2015 – JUN 3, 2015
$10,395
$2.495
$1,135
Richard Bernstein
JUN 4, 2015 – JUN 17, 2015
$9,995
$2.495
$1,135
To be announced
JUL 23, 2015 – AUG 5, 2015
$9,995
$2.495
$1,135
To be announced
AUG 27, 2015 – SEPT 9, 2015
$10,395
$2.495
$1,135
Richard Bernstein
Prices based on lead-in cabin category. Please inquire for information and rates on other cabin categories
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73
Journey Into Myanmar The second-largest nation in Southeast Asia, Myanmar has a checkered past of deep contrasts; it has incredible scenery and rich natural resources. Join New York Times experts on this 11-day exploration of the past, present and future of this land. History & Context Travelers 18 Places visited Yangon; Mandalay; Inle Lake Itinerary 11 days, 10 nights 1 Yangon and Dissidence 2 Buddhist Past and Present 3 The Road to Mandalay 4 Pagodas, Gold and Silver 5 Cruising the Rivers 6 Cruising the Ayeyarwaddy 7 The Remains of Buddha 8 Farming, on a Lake 9 Life on the Lake 10 Market Day 11 Yangon to Home
Expert Insight
Journey Highlights • Three-night cruise on the new luxury river cruiser, Sanctuary Ananda • Sunset candle-lighting at Shwedagon Pagoda • Join Mr. Chit Swe, a well-known local journalist for an informal discussion on life in Myanmar today • Enjoy a rare and animated conversation with Ma Thanegi, former personal assistant of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
“I was Bangkok bureau chief of The New York Times beginning in 1988, when the democracy movement in Burma was under way, and I slipped into the country a few times, meeting Aung San Suu Kyi and her family then.” — Steven Erlanger
Accommodation
Itinerary
The Sanctuary Ananda Sanctuary Ananda is a custom-built all-suite boat made specifically for the rivers of Burma. Utilizing the skills of local craftsman and built with traditional materials, it offers sleek, contemporary luxury. Deck Plans: See page 93
Asia
DAY 1
Yangon and Dissidence
Immerse yourself in the chaotic street life, thriving markets, charming teashops or just wander round the bustling capital. At this evening’s welcome dinner, you will have a rare opportunity to converse with Ma Thanegi, former personal assistant of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace laureate and leader of the National League for Democracy in Myanmar. The Strand Hotel, Meals: D
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Featured Expert: Steven Erlanger October 6 Departure Steven Erlanger became the London bureau chief of The New York Times in August 2013, after five years as bureau chief in Paris and before that, four years as bureau chief in Jerusalem. John Darnton September 15 Departure Times journalist with a focus on economics.
DAY 2
Buddhist Past and Present
This morning, start your explorations of Myanmar with a visit to Botataung Pagoda and Scott Market (Bogyoke Aung San Market); after lunch, head to the Reclining Buddha Pagoda, followed by the Shwedagon Pagoda for the sunset lighting of 1,000 special oil lamps. The Strand Hotel, Meals: B, L DAY 3
The Road to Mandalay
This morning, fly to Mandalay. On arrival, drive up into the hills for a full-day visit of Pyin Oo Lwin (Maymyo), a former British hill station. Explore via a horse-drawn stagecoach. During lunch, you will be joined by Mr. Chit Swe, a well-known local journalist. This afternoon, visit the tiny Forestry Museum and the National Kandawgyi Gardens, followed by the Peik Chin Myaung Cave. Hotel Pyin Oo Lwin, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Pagodas, Gold and Silver
This morning, explore Mandalay. Visit Maha Muni Paya and attend a Gold Leaf Beating workshop. Then, explore the Shwenandaw Monastery followed by Kuthodaw Pagoda, also known as the Maha Lawka Marazein Paya. Board the Sanctuary Ananda for lunch, before heading to the holy Sagaing Hills. Stop by a convent to interact with local nuns, then drive up the hill to Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda for a beautiful view over the Ayeyarwaddy River and the valley. Return to the ship for your onboard welcome dinner and a traditional local performance. Sanctuary Ananda, Meals: B, L, D
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Journey Into Myanmar DAY 5
Cruising the Rivers
DAY 8
A meditation and yoga training session will be available before breakfast. This morning, visit the ancient imperial capital of Innwa. Next, visit the Maha Aung Myay Bon Zan Monastery. Continue to the grand Bagaya Monastery, in the ancient city of Innwa. Afterwards, board horse carts to visit the Watch Tower (Nan Myint). After lunch, a variety of onboard activities will be offered, including a cooking school with the ship’s chef and a tasting of cigars and betel nut. Sanctuary Ananda, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
Cruising the Ayeyarwaddy
After docking this morning, travel by trishaw to the local village of Pakokku, where you will visit a shoe factory, a spice market and a cheroot factory. Return to the Sanctuary Ananda and sail to Bagan to explore the many amazing temples that rise out of the jungle. Finish the day by watching the sun set over the expansive landscape of pagodas, before returning onboard for dinner and a local performance. Sanctuary Ananda, Meals: B, L, D DAY 7
The Remains of Buddha
In the morning, you can ride a hot-air balloon (additional cost) and see the landscape of pagodas from above or watch the sunrise from a temple with a meditation expert. In late morning, arrive in Sale to learn more about monastic life, Burmese Buddhism and this unique architectural style as you visit several sights, including Yoke Sone Kyaung Monastery. Sail back to Bagan and visit the gold-leaf-gilded Shwezigon Pagoda. Return to the ship by horse cart for your final evening on board. Sanctuary Ananda, Meals: B, L, D
Asia
Farming, on a Lake
Today, fly to Inle Lake. Upon arrival in Heho, you will be transferred to your hotel in the quiet countryside of Burma. Here, you will see the vivid costumes of some of the ethnic minorities. After settling into your room, visit Phaung-Daw-U Pagoda. Continue to Ngaphachaung Monastery, a wooden monastery built on stilts over the lake. Here, you will see impressive Buddha images in the Shan, Tibetan, Bagan and Inwa styles on a highly ornate wood and mosaic pedestal. Aureum Inle Resort, Meals: B, L, D DAY 9
Life on the Lake
In the morning, travel through a densely forested area to visit Indein, situated on the hillside in the southwestern corner of Inle Lake. Then, wander through this typical lakeside village, observing the lives of the local people. Proceed through a bamboo grove and up a beautiful stairway lined with wooden columns to old Shwe Inn Dein. At today’s lunch at Ann’s Inthar House, you will be joined by “Aunty Ann,” a local Shan businesswoman, for a casual discussion about the lives and ways of the people who live on the lake. This afternoon, observe a traditional Intha boat race on the lake. Aureum Inle Resort, Meals: B, L
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DAY 10
Market Day
ACCOMMODATIONS
Begin your day with a visit to the five-day market. This rotating market changes locations every five days and is where the local hill tribes come to buy and sell their goods. Continue to the Ikat-style silk-weaving industry at Inn Paw Khone Village. Lunch is at your leisure. In the afternoon, transfer to Heho domestic airport for your flight back to Yangon. Gather in the evening for a farewell dinner at Le Planteur restaurant. The Strand Hotel, Meals: B, D DAY 11
The Strand Hotel (Deluxe Suite) Built in 1901 and a splendid example of colonial elegance, it is one of Myanmar’s most iconic and prestigious hotels. Hotel Pyin Oo Lwin (Deluxe Suite) This charming hotel is situated in the heart of the “city of flowers,” next to the national botanical gardens. Sanctuary Ananda Sanctuary Ananda is a custom-built all-suite boat made specifically for the rivers of Burma. Utilizing the skills of local craftsman and built with traditional materials it offers sleek, contemporary luxury.
Yangon to Home
This morning, transfer to Yangon airport for your international departure. Meals: B
Auruem Palace Hotels & Resort — Inle Located right in the center of Inle Lake, this resort is a tranquil, peaceful resort, offering stunning views and luxurious lake side villas.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE FROM
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
SEP 15, 2015 – SEP 25, 2015
$8,995
$2.495
$490
John Darnton
OCT 6, 2015 – OCT 16, 2015
$8,995
$2.495
$490
Steven Erlanger
Prices based on lead-in cabin category. Please inquire for information and rates on other cabin categories
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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The Colors of India Journey into the colorful country of India with this 13-day tour visiting the Golden Triangle plus Udaipur and Mumbai. History & Context Travellers 18 Places visited Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra Itinerary 13 days, 12 nights 1 Mumbai 2 Bustling Mumbai 3 Bollywood Dreams 4 On to Udaipur 5 Stunning Rajasthan 6 Overland to Jaipur 7 Jaipur 8 Taj Mahal Sunset 9 Agra and the Taj Mahal 10 Aarti Ceremony and the Ganges River 11 Sunrise Cruise on the Ganges River 12 Bustling Street Life of Delhi 13 Depart Delhi
Journey Highlights • Witness evening ceremonies that take place on the Ganges as you take in the sounds of chanted prayers and rhythmic drumming from a private boat • Visit a Bollywood set and dance studio where you will observe a live shoot and editing session, as well as a dance troupe practicing their dance routines • Polo anyone? Enjoy the unusual game of Elephant polo, including an opportunity to take part if you wish
Experts Insight “I lived in India for three and a half years and it was one of my greatest adventures. I’m happy to share my enthusiasms of the world’s largest democracy; a country with a vibrant cultural history spanning nearly 5,000 years.” — Elisabeth Bumiller
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Itinerary DAY 1
Mumbai
Upon arrival in Mumbai, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra State, has grown from a Koli fishing village into one of the four major metropolitan cities of India. Over four million people now reside here and the transfer from airport to hotel will highlight vast divides in the population — driving through downtown Mumbai you will fly by the slums found near the airport, through into the shopping district and onto the iconic Taj Mahal Palace and Towers. The drive in itself offers a great introduction to this country. Taj Mahal Palace and Towers (Luxury Grand Sea View Room), Meals: None DAY 2
Bustling Mumbai
Today, explore Mumbai. First, cruise Mumbai Harbor to Elephanta Island, a Unesco World Heritage site. Here, discover the world-renowned temples that are carved out of the basalt rock and filled with ornamental statues, pillars and friezes dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. In the afternoon, discover the city’s
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Featured Expert: Elisabeth Bumiller November 8 Departure Elisabeth Bumiller is deputy Washington bureau chief of The New York Times, where she oversees White House and domestic policy reporting. She was a Times Pentagon correspondent from 2008 to early 2013, a period when she traveled frequently with the secretary of defense and was embedded with the American military in Afghanistan. Somini Sengupta October 13 Departure Times journalist and former New Delhi bureau chief.
classic sights; Gateway of India, an 85-foot-high arch designed to reflect India’s Muslim and Hindu traditions; the extensive collection of fascinating 18th- and 19th-century miniature paintings at the Prince of Wales Museum, plus drive along the sweeping avenue of Marine Drive. This evening, gather with fellow guests over welcome cocktails and dinner. Taj Mahal Palace and Towers (Luxury Grand Sea View Room), Meals: B, D DAY 3
Bollywood Dreams
You have a unique opportunity this morning to visit Mumbai at dawn. See hundreds of newspaper vendors sorting through papers in seven different languages; experience a one-of-a-kind fish auction; see a “green-only” herb market sprawled across the bridge; watch the milkmen drive past with canisters for delivery. Mumbai at dawn truly defines its mercurial character. Return to the hotel for breakfast and checkout. Mumbai is the beating heart of India’s Bollywood scene and you will receive a unique opportunity to observe a live shoot of a Bollywood film. Lunch will be taken at the Ming Yang Restaurant found in the prestigious Taj Land’s End Hotel. Later this afternoon, board a flight to Udaipur. Taj Lake Palace (Luxury Lake View Room), Meals: B, L
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The Colors of India DAY 4
On to Udaipur
Romantic, wistful and serene, Udaipur is a city built around glassy blue lakes that reflect the green hills of the Aravalli ranges. Begin your explorations with a visit to the City Palace. Take a private tour of the Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakesh Palace. Stroll through Sahelion Ki Bari (Garden of the Maids of Honor) located along the shores of Udaipur’s second major lake, Fateh Sagar. It is beautifully laid out with extensive lawns and shady walks — an excellent example of the Hindu art of landscaping. Later this afternoon, embark on a private cruise on Lake Pichola on the Gangaur boat. Back at your hotel, dine à la carte at your leisure. Taj Lake Palace (Luxury Lake View Room), Meals: B, D DAY 5
From religious ceremonies on the Ganges, to Bollywood dancing and even elephant polo, accompanied by either a New York Times journalist or Times-selected expert, you’ll experience the real spirit of India.
Stunning Rajasthan
Head out of Udaipur this morning to the Eklingji and Nagda Temples, dedicated to Shiva. Next, drive out into the age-old Aravalli hills of Rajasthan and to the 18th-century Devi Garh Fort Palace. Enjoy lunch at the stunning Devi Garh Hotel. After lunch, embark on a visit of the local village by camel cart. Back in Udaipur this evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant; savor authentic flavors of the royal cuisine of Mewar with local ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques, such as wood-fired stoves. Taj Lake Palace (Luxury Lake View Room), Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
Overland to Jaipur
Following breakfast, embark on an overland full-day journey to Jaipur, stopping en route for lunch at a local restaurant. On arrival, check in to your accommodation at the former residence of the Maharajah of Jaipur. Rambagh Palace (Palace Room), Meals: B, L DAY 7
Jaipur
The origins of the beautiful and tranquil city of Jaipur can be traced back to the 18th century, during the reign of Jai Singh II. This morning, embark on a city tour; explore the Amber Fort and the City Palace, then travel over to Jantar Mantar, an open-air array of astronomical instruments; view the nearby Palace of the Winds, with its ornately screened windows. Later this afternoon, make a short journey to Dera Amer, a private Rajput farm where you have an opportunity to experience an elephant safari. Then witness a game of elephant polo. After the exhibition match, enjoy an alfresco dinner in the spectacular setting of the Aravalli Hills. Rambagh Palace (Palace Room), Meals: B, L DAY 8
Taj Mahal Sunset
Set out this morning for the overland journey to Agra and the Taj Mahal. You will stop en route for lunch at
Asia
Bharatpur and, shortly thereafter, to visit Fatehpur Sikri, a Unesco World Heritage site. Upon your late afternoon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel. Early this evening, visit the splendid Taj Mahal at sunset to watch the beautiful white marble turn slowly to a soft, rosy pink. ITC Mughal Hotel (Royal Mughal Suite), Meals: B, L, D
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DAY 9
Agra and the Taj Mahal
This morning you begin your day with a return visit to see the glorious Taj Mahal at sunrise. Your expert guide will ensure you skip the queues, which build up rather quickly in the morning. Return to the hotel for breakfast before a visit to Agra Fort (a Unesco World Heritage site), which lies on the bend of the River Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Later, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Varanasi, a city made of more than a thousand Hindu and Buddhist temples and shrines. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. The Gateway Hotel (Executive Room), Meals: B, D DAY 10
lunch in a local restaurant and continue touring New Delhi. Begin with a visit to Humayun’s Tomb (a Unesco World Heritage site), then head to Qutub Minar, a Unesco World Heritage site. Taj Mahal (Club Room), Meals: B, L DAY 13
Depart Delhi
Your journey ends today as you are transferred to the airport to board your homebound flights. Meals: B
ACCOMMODATIONS
Taj Mahal Palace and Towers (Luxury Grand Sea View Room) This iconic hotel, located adjacent to the Gateway of India, offers impressive views of the harbor and street life of Mumbai.
Aarti Ceremony and the Ganges River
Today, explore Sarnath, the park where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first sermon 25 centuries ago. Later in the afternoon, walk through the local market and to the banks of the sacred Ganges River to witness the Aarti ceremony. Take in the sounds of chanted prayers and rhythmic drumming as you watch the Hindu priests — holding lanterns to keep the darkness at bay — bid the gods and goddesses a restful slumber. The Gateway Hotel (Executive Room), Meals: B DAY 11
Taj Lake Palace (Luxury Lake View Room) This truly splendid hotel is located in the middle of Lake Pichola. Built in marble, this hotel features majestic architecture. Rambagh Palace (Palace Room) This beautiful hotel is a true landmark in the pink city; make sure you try a Jaipur Martini served in the Polo lounge.
Sunrise Cruise on the Ganges River
ITC Mughal Hotel (Royal Mughal Suite) This five-star hotel is located across 35 acres of manicured gardens and is near the Taj Mahal.
Start the day with a private sunrise cruise on the Ganges River to get a glimpse of life on this famous river. See locals and pilgrims alike cleanse themselves, literally and spiritually. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Then enjoy some time at leisure before your flight to Delhi, India’s capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before meeting for a drink joined by local journalists. A farewell feast will be served later. Taj Mahal (Club Room), Meals: B, D DAY 12
The Gateway Hotel (Executive Room) The Gateway Hotel the Ganges is set among 40 acres of lush green gardens, and exudes an air of peace and tranquility in this crowded and ancient temple city. Taj Mahal (Club Room) This large hotel lies in the very heart of New Delhi offering a luxury retreat from the bustling streets below.
Bustling Street Life of Delhi
Starting in Old Delhi, visit the Raj Ghat, a monument dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, followed by an exploration of the Jama Masjid Mosque and the Red Fort, both built by the Emperor Shah Jahan. Then set off on an exciting rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk. Enjoy
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
OCT 13, 2015 – OCT 25, 2015
$10,795
$3,595
$650
Somini Sengupta
NOV 8, 2015 – NOV 20, 2015
$10,795
$3,595
$650
Elisabeth Bumiller
DEC 8, 2015 – DEC 20, 2015
$10,795
$3,595
$650
To be announced
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Wild Sri Lanka The teardrop-shaped nation of Sri Lanka has seen more than its share of violence, natural and human. Led by New York Times experts deeply immersed in the region, you will witness the beguiling land formerly known as Ceylon. History & Context Travellers 18 Places visited Colombo; Minneriya National Park; Kandy Itinerary 8 days, 7 nights 1 Welcome to Colombo 2 History and Modernity 3 Ancient Texts and Cinnamon Breezes 4 Stone Temples and Elephants 5 A Day with the Villagers 6 Kandy: Orchids and Buddha’s Tooth 7 Brass and Crafts 8 Homeward Bound
Journey Highlights • Bandara Palipana, professor of botany, will take you for a fascinating walk around the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy, home to the Sacred Temple of the Tooth • Enjoy a game drive in Minneriya National Park, a part of the elephant corridor • Visit a village, where you will have a unique opportunity to interact with the local villagers and enjoy a home cooked lunch
Itinerary
• Visit the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka to see the ancient rock fortress and tranquil gardens
DAY 1
Join prominent local authors and journalists for a lively discussion about life in Sri Lanka, during an atmospheric welcome dinner.
Welcome to Colombo
On your morning arrival to Colombo, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the city. Meet your fellow travelers at an atmospheric welcome dinner this evening. You will be joined by prominent local authors and journalists for a lively discussion about life in Sri Lanka. The Taj Sumadra, Meals: B, D DAY 2
History and Modernity
Begin your Sri Lankan exploration with a tour of the capital city of Colombo. Among the many places of interest you will see are the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, the Pettah area, the Bandaranayake International Memorial Hall, Cinnamon Gardens, Viharamahadevi Park, Wolfendhal Dutch Church, Independence Square and Galle Face Green. Dinner and the evening are at leisure. The Taj Sumadra, Meals: B, L
Asia
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Featured Expert: Shivani Vora April 7 Departure The New York-based travel and lifestyle writer was born in New Delhi, but has lived all over the country. From the dhabas or roadside restaurants in Amritsar and the weavers in Varanasi, to the tourism boom in Hyderabad, Shivani is a regular contributor for The Times. Nell McShane Wulfhart May 15 Departure Travel journalist, with a special interest in Sri Lanka.
DAY 3 
Ancient Texts and Cinnamon Breezes
Leave Colombo for the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, famous for its vast number of ancient cities and Unesco World Heritage sites. After lunch, visit the famous Rock Fortress of Sigiriya. Its complex of buildings, part royal palace and part self-contained town, include the famous Lion Gate, water gardens, boulder gardens walls and moats, a sophisticated architectural feat of the ancient Sinhalese. Weather permitting, you will enjoy a private BBQ dinner by the lake this evening. The Cinnamon Lodge, Meals: B, L, D DAY 4 
Stone Temples and Elephants
This morning, drive to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Another Unesco World Heritage site, Polonnaruwa is the second ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka and today remains an interesting blend of archaeological monuments. After lunch, set out on a game drive in Minneriya National Park. Part of the elephant corridor that joins Kaudulla National Park and Wasgomuwa National Park, you have guaranteed sightings of elephants throughout the year. The Cinnamon Lodge, Meals: B, L, D
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83
Wild Sri Lanka DAY 5
A Day with the Villagers
After breakfast, proceed to a nearby village, where you will have a unique opportunity to interact with the local villagers. Enjoy the humble villagers’ hospitality as you are served a simple Sri Lankan lunch, prepared in the traditional method using earthenware pots and firewood as fuel. Continue to Kandy this afternoon, stopping en route to visit the spice city of Matale. Cinnamon Citadel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 6
Kandy: Orchids and Buddha’s Tooth
Set out to explore the heritage city of Kandy today. Bandara Palipana, professor of botany, will take you for a fascinating walk around the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy, home to the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, considered one of the most revered Temples by the Buddhists. This afternoon, you will get a taste of the alternative lifestyle of an urban artist during a private meeting with Sri Lankan artist Rahju. Cinnamon Citadel, Meals: B, D
DAY 7
Brass and Crafts
As you leave Kandy this morning, stop at a traditional brass-making arts and crafts village in the suburbs and experience how these traditions have been kept alive for generations. Then continue to Negombo, a major commercial hub, arriving in the late afternoon. Bid farewell to Sri Lanka at a gala dinner this evening. The Jetwing Lagoon Hotel, Meals: B, L, D DAY 8
Homeward Bound
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departing homebound flight. Meals: B
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ACCOMMODATIONS
The Taj Samudra hotel (Club Rooms) The Taj Samudra hotel boasts a regal elegance and prime location in the city. The Cinnamon Lodge (Deluxe Rooms) The Cinnamon Lodge is situated in the midst of 27 acres of lush forestland in the north central dry plains of Sri Lanka. Enjoy chalet-style luxurious accommodations sheltered by ancient trees abuzz with wildlife including monkeys, water monitors, birds, butterflies and squirrels. The Cinnamon Citadel (Deluxe Rooms) The Cinnamon Citadel owns a prime spot on a riverbank hillside. It creatively fuses retro chic with the traditions of this ancient land boasting unrivaled vistas of the hills and mountains of Sri Lanka. Jetwing Lagoon Hotel Nestled next to the tranquil Negombo Lagoon, this spa was the first resort to have been built by the legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
APR 7, 2015 – APR 14, 2015
$4,595
$1,195
N/A
Shivani Vora
MAY 15, 2015 – MAY 22, 2015
$4,595
$1,195
N/A
Nell McShane Wulfhart
JUN 2, 2015 – JUN 9, 2015
$4,595
$1,195
N/A
To be announced
JUL 9, 2015 – JUL 16, 2015
$4,595
$1,195
N/A
To be announced
SEP 6, 2015 – SEP 13, 2015
$4,595
$1,195
N/A
To be announced
SEP 22, 2015 – SEP 29, 2015
$4,595
$1,195
N/A
To be announced
OCT 30, 2015 – NOV 6, 2015
$4,595
$1,195
N/A
To be announced
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
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Food and Wine: The Heart of Italian Culture Experience the gastronomic delights of Italy on this journey that travels through four of the greatest European destinations. Accompanied by a New York Times journalist, plus on-the-ground experts, discover Italian cuisine paired with fine regional wines on this beautiful tour celebrating La Dolce Vita. Food & Wine Travelers 18 Places visited Venice, Rome, Florence, Bologna Itinerary 9 days, 8 nights 1 Arrival into Rome 2 Rome 3 Rome 4 Rome — Tuscany — Florence 5 Renaissance Florence 6 Florence 7 Florence — Bologna — Venice 8 Venice 9 Depart Venice
Journey Highlights • Experience the life of Roman emperors, Florentine nobles and Venetian merchants • Enjoy wine tasting in some of Italy’s finest vineyards, including the Chianti region • Tour the Coliseum, including special access to the normally off-limits hypogeum — the area under the arena where gladiators and wild animals were kept (separately) before entering the arena
Enjoy a morning walking tour of Venice’s most iconic sites including the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica Itinerary and its Bell Tower, for a bird’s-eye view over Venice and the lagoons. DAY 1 Arrival into Rome On arrival in Rome, you will be met at the airport and transferred privately to your hotel. Join your fellow Times travelers in the evening for welcome cocktails and a delicious meal of seasonal specialties at a nearby local restaurant. Boscolo Exedra, Meals: D
Europe
Tour operated by Abercrombie & Kent
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Featured Expert: Raymond Sokolov June 2 Departure Has a long and distinguished career, having worked at Newsweek, Natural History magazine, The Wall Street Journal and as a food and restaurant editor at The New York Times.
DAY 3
Rome
Start the day in a charming and authentic corner of Rome, the Testaccio Market. Join your chef on a stroll through the market, learning about and selecting seasonal produce to take back to your private villa for a hands-on cooking experience. Then explore the streets taking in the Campo dei Fiori marketplace, the Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, followed by a spot of people-watching at the Piazza di Spagna. The evening and dinner are at your leisure. Boscolo Exedra, Meals: B, L DAY 4
Rome — Tuscany — Florence
Head out into the stunning Umbrian countryside en route to Florence and the Unesco-recognized region of Val d’Orcia. Visit the charming town of Pienza. Nearby, Montepulciano is a Tuscan hilltop town set nearly 2,000 feet above sea level. Here, enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. Later, a private cheese-making demonstration will be offered at a Tuscan farmhouse. Hotel Brunelleschi, Meals: B, D DAY 5
DAY 2
Rome
This morning, explore Rome — the Roman Forum and, of course, the Coliseum. You will be granted special access to the normally off-limits hypogeum — the area under the arena, where gladiators and wild animals were kept (separately) before entering the arena. Enjoy a light lunch, as the Romans do, sampling delicious “street foods.” In the afternoon, visit the Vatican City, incorporating visits to the Map Rooms, the Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel. Afterwards, enter the vast Basilica of St. Peter, the world’s largest church. Later, dine on tasty traditional specialties in the heart of Rome. Boscolo Exedra, Meals: B, L, D
Renaissance Florence
Meet your local expert guide this morning for a stroll through the streets of Florence. See the Ponte Vecchio as you cross the river to the Pitti Palace. See the stunning and vast Duomo before pausing for lunch in the market district of the city. In the afternoon, enter the Galleria dell’Accademia. The gallery also displays an important collection of paintings by 15th- and 16th-century Florentine artists and contemporaries of Michelangelo, such as Bartolomeo, Lippi, Bronzino and del Ghirlandaio. As you return to the hotel, stop by an artisanal ice cream shop and sample their freshly produced gelato. Hotel Brunelleschi, Meals: B, L
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Food and Wine: The Heart of Italian Culture
DAY 6
Florence
DAY 8
Today, enjoy a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery. In the afternoon, head out into the Chianti wine region. As you travel along winding roads, soak up the rich panorama comprising beautiful rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves. Admire the charming hamlets and farmhouses juxtaposed with fortified villas and castles. Head south of Florence into the Greve region and visit a historic castle at the heart of a beautiful wine estate. Enjoy a tour of the cellars, followed by a wine tasting and a delicious dinner at the castle. Hotel Brunelleschi, Meals: B, D DAY 7
Florence — Bologna — Venice
As you travel toward Venice, you will pass through the Emilia-Romagna region, famous for its pastas, meats and cheeses — and the world’s finest automobiles. Walk around Piazza Maggiore to see San Petronio, the largest church in Bologna, then on to the beautiful Fountain of Neptune and the Palazzo Cumunale with its wonderful collection of fine art. Bologna has its own “leaning towers,” and these monuments truly defy gravity. See Torre degli Asinelli and the Torre della Garisenda. Continue to Venice and cruise along the Grand Canal to your hotel, located just steps from St. Mark’s Square. Hotel Bonvecchiati, Meals: B, L
Europe
Venice
A morning walking tour of Venice highlights the fascinating Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, with its rich decoration of marbles and golden mosaics, and the Bell Tower for a fantastic bird’s-eye view over the islands and lagoon of Venice. The afternoon is at your leisure. Early evening, discover some of the lesser-known canals of Venice and take part in a Venetian tradition of Bacari, a typical tapas type of food, enjoyed with wine or a cocktail. Then bid farewell to Italy at your farewell dinner on the stunning Danieli Terrace. Hotel Bonvecchiati, Meals: B, D DAY 9
Depart Venice
After breakfast, take a final boat ride across the lagoon to the airport, for your flight home. Meals: B
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Explore the countryside of the Chianti region comprising beautiful rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Boscolo Exedra Set in an impressive white marble building, circa 1800s, this hotel offers elegance and luxury, located in the heart of Rome. Hotel Brunelleschi Completely restored in 2012, this hotel is set in a Byzantine tower and medieval Church that overlooks Florence’s Cathedral. Hotel Bonvecchiati This contemporary hotel is located in the heart of Venice, a stone’s throw from St. Mark’s Square.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR (FROM)
EXPERT
JUN 2, 2015 – JUN 10, 2015
$12,695
$3,195
N/A
Raymond Sokolov
JUL 21, 2015 – JUL 29, 2015
$11,195
$2,295
N/A
To be announced
AUG 4, 2015 – AUG 12, 2015
$10,595
$1,995
N/A
To be announced
SEP 1, 2015 – SEP 9, 2015
$12,195
$2,995
N/A
To be announced
SEP 22, 2015 – SEP 30, 2015
$12,195
$2,995
N/A
To be announced
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The Russia Situation Russia is a land of stark contrasts. Get under the skin of this complex and enigmatic country as you explore alongside our experts, unlocking this country’s ancient secrets.
Journey Highlights • Join Russian TV presenter Boris Notkin for an informal discussion on Russian politics, where he will offer his insights into the long and convoluted history of the Soviet Union • Enjoy a private tour of Kremlin territory • Visit the Gorbachev Foundation for an exclusive meeting with Pavel Palazhchenko, the principal interpreter for Mikhail Gorbachev
Politics & Perspectives Travellers 18 Places visited Moscow and St. Petersburg Itinerary 9 days, 8 nights 1 Welcome to Russia 2 Exclusive Tour of the Kremlin 3 The Cold War 4 Russian Leaders 5 Journey to St. Petersburg 6 The Historical City and Winter Palace 7 Tsarskoe Selo (Tsar’s Village) 8 Private Tour of The Grand Palace 9 Depart St. Petersburg
• Experience the Hermitage, in the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, after hours, with an exclusive and private tour dedicated to Times Journeys
Europe
Tour operated by Abercrombie & Kent
Expert Insight “Russia is in my blood. My grandparents were all Russian émigrés; I studied Russian literature; I spent 10 years there as a correspondent and I wrote a book called “Echoes of a Native Land.” Russia can be maddening, but it is always fascinating.” — Serge Schmemann
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Featured Expert: Serge Schmemann
Itinerary DAY 1
Welcome to Russia
Arrive at Moscow Domodedovo Airport where your local A&K tour director will welcome you. Then, transfer through the city, where the five-star Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel’s check-in staff will eagerly await your arrival. Check in and relax. Reconvene later in the evening for welcome cocktails and dinner at the hotel. Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel (Deluxe Double/Twin), Meals: D DAY 2
Exclusive Tour of the Kremlin
The day starts with a private tour of Kremlin territory. The doors will open to Times travelers ahead of time, ensuring privacy and crowd avoidance. Your guide will lead you through the oldest museum in Russia, which is home to a vast collection of precious stones, 18th- and 19th-century jewelry and other priceless artifacts dating as far back as the 14th century. After lunch at Kruazh Restaurant, visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, one of Russia’s most important cathedrals. Explore the Park of Fallen Idols — where sculptures of Soviet leaders were collected after being removed from the streets of Moscow. End the day with a short walking tour of the famous Red Square. Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel (Deluxe Double/Twin), Meals: B, L
May 14 Departure Mr. Schmemann is the author of a book about Russia, “Echoes of a Native Land: Two Centuries of a Russian Village,” and another, intended for high school students, about the fall of Communism, “When the Wall Came Down: The Berlin Wall and the Fall of Communism,” as well as numerous articles and reviews. Serge Schmemann is a member of the editorial board of The New York Times focusing on international issues.
David K. Shipler June 18 Departure Pulitzer Prize-winning author and former Times foreign correspondent. Alison Smale July 16 Departure New York Times Berlin bureau chief.
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The Russia Situation Understand the complex history of Russia as you explore the two most important cities of the country — Moscow and St. Petersburg accompanied by New York Times journalists. Depending on departure date expect to travel with author and New York Times editorial board member Serge Schmemann, or Pulitzer Prize winner David K. Shipler.
DAY 3
The Cold War
Following breakfast, join Russian TV presenter Boris Notkin for an informal discussion on Russian politics. Next, travel into the historic district of Moscow and to the well-camouflaged former top-secret Soviet command post, known simply as GO-42, which now houses Moscow’s Cold War Museum. After lunch, along with your private guide, visit the State Tretyakov Gallery, which includes an exquisite collection of Russian icons and prerevolutionary Russian art. Dinner and the evening are at leisure. Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel (Deluxe Double/Twin), Meals: B, L DAY 4
Russian Leaders
This morning, visit the Gorbachev Foundation for an exclusive meeting with Pavel Palazhchenko, the principal interpreter for Mikhail Gorbachev. Discuss the Gorbachev years to include the U.S.–Soviet summit talks, which in turn led to the end of the Cold War. After lunch at the Artist Gallery Restaurant, complete your remarkable day with a visit to the Novodevichy Convent cemetery, the final resting place of Nikita Khrushchev, Raisa Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin, among many other famous names. Dinner this evening will be at Arkady Novikov’s Bolshoi Restaurant. Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel (Deluxe Double/ Twin), Meals: B, L, D DAY 5
being escorted to the Grand Hotel Europe. Meet your fellow travelers for dinner in the hotel. Grand Hotel Europe (Deluxe Double), Meals: B, L, D
Journey to St. Petersburg
DAY 6
The Historical City and Winter Palace
Your introduction to St. Petersburg begins with a morning lecture by Prof. Zoya Belyakova on the history of the Romanov family. Belyakova is an internationally acclaimed specialist on the family tree of the Romanov dynasty. Then, set out to explore this fascinating and romantic city. Starting in the historical city center, see highlights such as Nevsky Prospect, Palace Square, the Winter Palace, the Admiralty and Vasilevsky Island. Visit the fascinating Peter and Paul Fortress and the gilded St. Isaac’s Cathedral. Lunch will be served at the exquisite Mezzanine Restaurant, regarded as one of the top spots to lunch. This evening, experience the Hermitage, in the Winter Palace, after hours, in this exclusive and private tour dedicated to Times Journeys. Dinner is at your leisure. Grand Hotel Europe (Deluxe Double), Meals: B, L DAY 7
Tsarskoe Selo (Tsar’s Village)
The morning is at your leisure. At midday the journey through the heart of Eastern Russia begins as you board the express train bound for St. Petersburg. Here, you will be shown to your pre-reserved seating, and your luggage will be placed on board for you. Upon your early evening arrival at St. Petersburg railway station, you will be met at the door of the train, and your luggage collected, before
Following breakfast, leave St. Petersburg for Tsarskoe Selo (the Tsar’s village), more commonly known as Pushkin. Peter the Great gave the estate to his wife Catherine, but it was her daughter Empress Elizabeth who was largely responsible for the construction of the beautiful Catherine’s Palace. One of the highlights, other than its beautiful landscaped gardens, is the famous Amber Room, a chamber decorated with amber panels backed with gold leaf and mirrors, which has been restored to its original glory. Enjoy lunch at Podvorie, a
Europe
Tour operated by Abercrombie & Kent
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beautiful wood-styled restaurant popular with the elite of the city. Return to St. Petersburg for a guided tour of the Fabergé Museum. Dinner is at your leisure. Belmond Grand Hotel Europe (Deluxe Double), Meals: B, L DAY 8
Private Tour of the Grand Palace
Today, visit Peterhof and the great summer estate of Peter the Great, nestled on the shore of the Gulf of Finland. The magnificent estate was officially opened in 1723, following the labor of over 5,000 workmen, serfs and soldiers. Your guide will escort you around the park after hours, explaining the relevance, architecture and meaning of several palaces, summerhouses and pavilions. The Grand Cascade, a delightful sequence of 37 gilded bronze sculptures, 64 fountains and 142 water jets descending from the terraces of the Great Palace to the Marine Canal and the Baltic Sea, is one of the highlights of this tour. Afterwards, you are whisked back to St. Petersburg, along the Neva River, by hydrofoil. Later, take to the canals of St. Petersburg on a one-hour private journey through the canal systems. Belmond Grand Hotel Europe (Deluxe Double), Meals: B, L, D DAY 9
Depart St. Petersburg
You will be met at your hotel today by your guide and privately transferred to Moscow airport for your departure flight. Meals: B
ACCOMMODATIONS
Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel (Deluxe Double/Twin) The hotel blends traditional Moscow with modern conveniences. Located in close proximity to Red Square, the Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre, this hotel is the ideal base for your tour. Belmond Grand Hotel Europe (Deluxe Double) Set in a stunning central location of St. Petersburg, this five-star grand hotel offers elegant accommodation in a fantastic setting.
Dates & Pricing DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
INTERNAL AIR
EXPERT
MAY 14, 2015 – MAY 22, 2015
$10,795
$1,595
N/A
Serge Schmemann
JUN 18, 2015 – JUN 26, 2015
$10,795
$1,595
N/A
David K. Shipler
JUL 16, 2015 – JUL 24, 2015
$10,795
$1,595
N/A
Alison Smale
AUG 13, 2015 – AUG 21, 2015
$10,795
$1,595
N/A
To be announced
SEP 3, 2015 – SEP 11, 2015
$10,795
$1,595
N/A
To be announced
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Deck Plans Greek Isles, Turkish Shores — Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam
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23 ft. to stern from 9 ft. to stern from Staterooms 5184 & 5185. Staterooms 4174 & 4179. SH IP SPECIFICATIO N S & FACILITIES
Staterooms have solid steel verandah railings instead of clear-view Plexiglas® railings Suites SY8068, SC6175, SC6164, SY5002 & SY5001 are wheelchair accessible, bathtub and roll-in shower. Suite SS6108 and staterooms I-8037, VA8032, VA8031, VA6049, VB6004, VB6003, VA5140, VA5137, VA5054, VA5051, VA4132, VA4131, H4090, H4089, VA4052, VA4051, D1100, C1082, C1081, J1074, K1012 & K1011 are wheelchair accessible, roll-in shower only.
1,964 Guests 82,305 Gross Tons • 936 Feet Long
4 Restaurants 2 Show Lounges • Outdoor Swimming Pools (one with sliding glass roof)
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Duty-free Shops Internet Center • Library •
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Staterooms 1001–1127 252 ft. from bow to Staterooms 1001 & 1002.
Casino Basketball Court • Volleyball Court • •
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Journey Into Myanmar — Sanctuary Ananda
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The Galápagos: Evolution in Action — Galaxy Yacht
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Deck Plans
DECK PLAN
The White Continent — Fly and Sail Antarctica: M/V Sea Explorer
SEA EXPLORER DECK 6 DECK 5 DECK 4 DECK 3 DECK 2
Penthouse Suites 325 sq.ft. incl. Veranda 2 Single or 1 Queen, with private Veranda and sitting area
DECK 6
EXERCISE ROOM
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PANTRY
Veranda Suites 260 sq.ft. incl. Veranda 2 Single or 1 Queen, with private Veranda and sitting area
OUTDOOR CAFÉ
Superior Suites 220 sq.ft. 2 Beds, with window and sitting area
DECK 4
BAR
Single Suites 230 sq.ft. 2 Beds, with window and sitting area
Window Suites 225 sq.ft. 2 Beds, with window and sitting area
Triple Suite 240 sq.ft. 2 Beds, 1 sleepingPorthole Sofa, withSuites window and sitting area 237 sq.ft. 2 Beds, with portholes and sitting area
DECK 3
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© 5/16/2014 by team-graf.at / CabinPlans SeaExplorer AXXI / Design by B. Graf - AUSTRIA
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A Taste of the Orient: Discover China — Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer
Explorer Deck Lotus Room
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Terms and Conditions These are the terms under which we offer Times Journeys Tours. By registering and paying your deposit for a Tour, you are entering into this Participant Agreement with us. Please read these terms carefully before making a deposit or payment for a Tour. These terms may be supplemented by additional terms and conditions specific to your Tour (“Supplemental Terms”). In the event of a conflict between this agreement and the supplemental terms, the Supplemental Terms will apply.
•
If we receive your cancellation notice ninety (90) to sixty-one (61) days prior to the departure date, we will retain twenty percent (20%) of the Tour price based on double occupancy, excluding optional payments.
•
If we receive your cancellation notice sixty (60) to thirty-one (31) days prior to the departure date, we will retain fifty percent (50%) of the Tour price based on double occupancy.
TIMES JOURNEYS PARTICIPANT AGREEMENT
•
If we receive your cancellation notice thirty (30) days or fewer prior to the departure date, we will retain one hundred percent (100%) of the Tour price.
•
Any penalty imposed by an airline, including for airline service between points on the Tour (“Internal Air”) or travel to or from the Tour, is your responsibility.
Times Journeys, a part of The New York Times Company, acts only as the trip sponsor and is not responsible for the acts or omissions of other parties. The trip described on the Times Journeys website (the “Website”) or in your brochure (the “Tour”) is provided by an independent tour operator named on the Website or in your brochure (the “Operator”). Times Journeys and the Operator are collectively referred to as “we or “us”. The terms and conditions of this Participant Agreement apply to your Tour and the program for the Tour (the “Itinerary”). Pricing and Inclusions: Quoted Tour prices are per person, double occupancy except where indicated. Prices include programming, planning, handling and operational charges and are based on current rates of exchange, tariffs and taxes in effect at the time of publication. We reserve the right to increase Tour prices to cover increased costs, tariffs, taxes and V.A.T. received after prices are published and to reflect fluctuations in foreign exchange markets. We will not give a breakdown in the price of a Tour or its parts. Modification of Tour content size will not affect the published price. Exclusions: Quoted Tour prices exclude: trip insurance; airfares between points on the Tour; international airfare, including airfare and other transportation to and from the Tour (unless otherwise noted); costs associated with obtaining passports or entry visas; airport departure taxes (unless otherwise noted); excess baggage charges; gratuities to the Tour directors, drivers and guides; meals other than those specified in the Itinerary; sightseeing not included in the Itinerary; and personal expenses such as laundry, communication charges and optional activities (which are subject to availability). Reservations and Payments: The Tour deposit amount is listed on the Website or in your brochure. The deposit is required in order to confirm your booking. Upon receipt of the deposit, the Operator will send you confirmation of your booking. Your final payment date will be listed on the confirmation. If a Tour is already full, we may accept deposits on a standby basis. If space becomes available, you will have the choice of joining the Tour by paying in full or forfeiting the space in return for a refund of your deposit. Final payment is due ninety (90) days prior to departure unless otherwise indicated on the Website or in the brochure. If your reservation is made within ninety (90) days of departure, the entire cost of the trip must be paid at the time of the request in order to secure confirmation. Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation and medical insurance. The Operator will provide the insurance applications along with your booking confirmation. Any questions about what travel insurance does or does not cover should be addressed directly to the travel insurance company. If you decline insurance coverage, you will personally assume full responsibility for any financial loss associated with your travel arrangements, and you could lose your travel investment and/or have to pay more money to correct the situation. Single Travelers: Tour prices are based on double occupancy. Single travelers will be expected to pay the single supplement fee. Cancellation by You: We must receive your cancellation notice in writing by email, fax or overnight courier, and your cancellation date will be the date on which we receive your notice. •
If we receive your cancellation notice ninety-one (91) days or more from the Tour departure date, we will refund fifty percent (50%) of the deposit amount and all of the Tour price to the extent that you have made that payment.
Your decision not to participate on the Tour due to State Department warnings, fear of travel, illness or any other reason will be deemed a cancellation. If a flight or other delay for any reason prevents you from joining the Tour on the Tour departure date and time, you will be considered a no-show, and we cannot provide a full or partial refund or credit toward a future Tour, but you may join the Tour late if you wish. Air Transportation during the Tour: Internal Air is not included in the price of the Tour. Estimated Internal Air costs will be identified separately on the Website or in your brochure. Internal Air costs and availability are subject to change at any time prior to final payment for your Tour and we reserve the right to increase Tour prices accordingly. We will not change your seat assignment request on commercial aircraft without your permission. However, airlines often change seat assignments to satisfy their loyalty members or because of equipment changes (aircraft type). We are not notified of these changes in advance, and often travelers are not made aware of these changes until they arrive at the airport. We cannot be responsible for seat assignment changes made by the airline. Frequent flier programs are private agreements between airlines and passengers, and we cannot be held responsible for mileage discrepancies involving airline loyalty reward programs. Passports and Visas: You are solely responsible for complying with passport and visa requirements. For U.S. travelers, international travel requires a passport valid six (6) months beyond your intended return travel date. In many cases, you will also need to have multiple consecutive blank visa pages within your passport (the number varies depending on the destination(s)). Many destinations also require that visas be obtained prior to travel. It is recommended that you check with the U.S. Department of State website for the latest passport and visa requirements. Cancellation or Substitution by Us: We will make commercially reasonable efforts to keep the Itinerary as it has been published; however, the final Itinerary may vary due to availability and factors beyond our control. We may in our sole discretion substitute services such as hotels or goods of similar quality for any service or good stated in the Itinerary. If a Times Journeys speaker (“Speaker”) cancels, the Operator will make every effort to find a replacement. You will not be refunded in whole or in part when the Operator is unable to find a replacement Speaker. We reserve the right to cancel any Tour because of inadequate enrollment that makes the trip economically infeasible to operate or because of our concerns with respect to the safety, health or welfare of our travelers or staff. If we cancel a Tour, our liability is limited to a full refund of your payments to us and we will not be liable for any other costs, damages or refunds of any kind for any loss, delay, inconvenience, disappointment or expense whatsoever in such circumstances. If a Tour in progress must be interrupted or canceled, our liability shall be strictly limited to refund of the recoverable cost of any unused portion of the Tour. Other Taxes and Fees: Some governments charge departure taxes and/or fees. These fees are the responsibility of each passenger traveling to the designated country and are not included in the Tour price unless stated.
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Baggage: We assume no liability for loss or damage to baggage in transit to and from a Tour or while on a Tour. We recommend purchasing a supplemental travel insurance package. Children: Unless otherwise indicated in the Tour description, all Tour passengers must be at least ten (10) years of age. However, some activities contained within an Itinerary may have a different age restriction than the overall minimum age requirement, in which case details will be provided at the time of booking. We reserve the right to marginally exceed the published maximum group size on family Tours to accommodate a family. Suppliers Acts or Omissions: The Operator acts only as an independent contractor to supply or arrange for the travel services named in your Itinerary or otherwise to procure services or goods from third parties such as airlines, hotels and other lodging providers, local hosts, guides, bus lines, car rental companies, driving services, restaurants and providers of entertainment (the “Suppliers”). The Operator and Times Journeys assume no responsibility for any personal injury, property damage or other loss, accident, delay, inconvenience or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of any act or omission of any of the Suppliers. Conduct During the Tour: You are responsible for respecting the authority and following the directions of the Tour guide and the laws of the countries in your Itinerary during a Tour. We may exclude you from participating in all or any part of the Tour if, in our sole discretion, your condition or behavior renders you unfit for the Tour or unfit for continuation once the Tour has begun. Unfitness may include, without limitation, any behavior that, regardless of its cause, is inappropriate or offensive or interferes with the delivery of Tour services or may constitute a hazard or embarrassment. In such case, our liability shall be strictly limited to refund of the recoverable cost of any unused portion of the Tour. Should you decide for any reason not to participate in certain parts of the Tour or use certain goods included in the Tour, no refunds will be made for those unused parts of the Tour or goods. You agree to indemnify and hold us harmless from and against any costs, damages, losses or liabilities arising out of (a) the actions or omissions of any minors traveling with you and (b) if you checked the box indicating that you are signing on behalf of yourself and your traveling companions, your companions’ claims that you were not authorized to agree to this Participant Agreement on their behalf. Limitation of Liability and Damages: In no event will we be liable for any injury, loss, claim, damage or any special, punitive, exemplary, direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages of any kind, whether based in contract, tort, strict liability or otherwise, that arise out of or are in any way connected with the Tour, even if advised of the possibility of such damages. Travel Advisories and Warnings: It is your responsibility to become informed about the most current travel advisories and warnings by referring to the U.S. State Department’s travel website at travel.state.gov or by phone at (888) 407-4747. Force Majeure: We assume no responsibility for any personal injury, property damage or other loss, accident, delay, inconvenience or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of any matter beyond our exclusive control, including, but not limited to, a delay or cancellation that causes you to miss all or any portion of the Tour; acts of God, acts of government, war, terrorist acts, riots, disaster, weather extremes or strikes. We have no special knowledge regarding the financial condition of the Suppliers, unsafe conditions, health hazards, weather hazards or climate extremes at locations to which you may travel. You understand that health care standards, facilities and services abroad may be different or even inadequate for treating health conditions. For information concerning possible dangers at foreign destinations, we recommend contacting the Travel Warnings Section of the U.S. State Department at (202) 647-5225 or www.travel.state.gov, and click on “Travel Warnings.” For medical information, we recommend contacting the Centers for Disease Control at (877) FYI-TRIP or www.cdc.gov/travel. Assumption of Risks and Release: If you participate in activities during your Tour, certain risks and dangers may arise, including, but not limited to, the risk of accidents in remote places without access to medical facilities, transportation or means of rapid evacuation and assistance; the hazards of traveling in unsafe or politically unstable areas or under unsafe conditions; the dangers of civil disturbances, war, extortion, kidnapping and
terrorist activities; dangers and risks inherent in activities in underdeveloped countries; and dangers of local law enforcement activity. You hereby expressly assume all of these risks and dangers, and you hereby expressly agree to forever release, discharge and hold us and our agents, employees, officers and directors harmless against any and all liability, actions, causes of actions, suits, claims and demands of any and every kind and nature whatsoever, which you now have or which may hereafter arise out of or in connection with your Tour or participation in any activities in which you participate. Arbitration and Waiver of Trial by Jury: You agree to present any claims against us within ninety (90) days after the Tour ends and to file any suit within one (1) year of the incident, and you acknowledge that this expressly limits the applicable statute of limitations to one (1) year. In lieu of litigation and jury trials, each of which is expressly waived, any dispute concerning, relating or referring to this Participation Agreement, the brochure or any other literature concerning your trip or the Tour shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration in New York City, New York, according to the then-existing commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association. Such proceeding will be governed by the substantive law of the State of New York. The arbitrator(s) and not any federal, state or local court or agency shall have exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, enforceability, conscionability or formation of this Participant Agreement, including, but not limited to, any claim that all or any part of this Participant Agreement is void or voidable. General: You hereby consent to our use of pictures or video of you in our marketing materials without compensation. Facsimile or scanned transmission of any signed document shall be deemed delivery of an original. If there are any conflicts between this Participant Agreement and the Itinerary, this Participant Agreement shall apply. We reserve the right to decline to do business with anyone on a nondiscriminatory basis. Active Elements, Medical Conditions and Special Assistance: Some of our Tours incorporate active elements such as hiking, climbing or canoeing; you are responsible for familiarizing yourself with the level of activity that will be involved in your Tour. You must disclose in your Participant Information Form (or at such later time when you become aware of such a condition) any existing physical or mental illness, disability, pregnancy or any other condition which may create a health hazard for yourself or others during the Tour, or for which you may require medical attention or special accommodation during the Tour. We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate your needs, but you must notify us at the time of booking for a determination of what assistance we can reasonably provide. We regret that we cannot accommodate you if you have special needs for ordinary daily activities, such as walking and dining. In no instance will our Suppliers or we physically lift or assist you on to or off any vehicles. If we cannot accommodate your special needs, you must be accompanied by a companion who will be responsible for independently providing the needed assistance. We reserve the right to decline acceptance of anyone we consider unsuitable due to fitness level. We also reserve the right to remove you from the Tour, at your own expense, if your condition is such that it could create a hazard to you or others, or otherwise impact the enjoyment of other passengers.
SUPPLEMENTAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS Binding Arbitration Clause (for Mountain Travel only): I agree that any dispute with Mountain Travel concerning, relating or referring to this contract, the brochure, or any other literature concerning my trip, or the trip itself shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration in San Francisco, California, according to the then-existing commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association. Such proceeding will be governed by substantive California law without regard to the California Arbitration Act. The arbitrator(s) and not any federal, state or local court or agency shall have exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, enforceability, conscionability or formation of this contract, including, but not limited to, any claim that all or any part of this contract is void or voidable.
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
99
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Journey Into Myanmar
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The Colors of India
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The ’Stans of Asia: Follow the Silk Route
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Wild Sri Lanka
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POLITICS & PERSPECTIVES
The Israeli-Palestinian Conundrum
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A Hike Around Mont Blanc
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An Irish Festival of Opera
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Italian Opera in the Footsteps of Verdi and Puccini
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A Walk in Provence
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Food & Wine, the Heart of Italian Culture
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Espionage in Europe: Now & Then
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Greek Isles, Turkish Shores
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The Great War: What Was Won & What Was Lost
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Colombia: Because Reality is Very Different
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SOUTH AMERICA
100
EXPERTS See nytimes.com/timesjourneys for departures for specific experts
DEPARTURES JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
Jim Wilson, Angel Franco
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
•
OCT
•
•
•
•
•
Jeffrey Gettleman, Tim Neville, Ray Bonner
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Elaine Sciolino
• •
•
•
•
Steven Erlanger, John Darnton
• •
Elisabeth Bumiller, Somini Sengupta
• •
Christopher Wren, Tim Neville, Celestine Bohlen
•
•
•
•
•
Raymond Wilkinson
•
Nell McShane Wulfhart, Shivani Vora
•
•
•
•
•
Avi Melamed, Nadia Hilou, Arnon Soffer
• •
Christopher Dickey, Christopher Wren, Tim Neville
•
•
Fred Plotkin
•
A.O. Scott
•
Fred Plotkin
•
Alan Riding, Patrick Ollivier-Elliot, Raymond Sokolov, Nicholas Delbanco
•
Raymond Sokolov
• •
Jon A. Wiant
• •
•
•
•
•
Roger Cohen, Adam Nagourney, Steven A. Cook, Mark A. Stoler
•
Richard Cohen
•
John Burns, Douglas Dalby
•
Serge Schmemann, Dave Shipler, Alison Smale
•
Anthony DePalma, Frances Robles
DEC
•
John F. Burns, Alan Cowell
Richard Bernstein, Tony Clifton
NOV
•
•
• •
•
•
•
James McPherson, Dennis Frye
•
Alan Riding, Larry Rohter
•
To be announced Henry Fountain
Call our travel consultants at 855 698 1456 or visit nytimes.com/timesjourneys
•
•
•
• JAN ’16 •
101
2015 Journeys by Category CATEGORY
TRIP
PRICE
PREMIER
A Hike Around Mont Blanc
From $5,995
AFRICA
Through a Lens: Capture the Brilliance of Morocco
From $6,995
EUROPE
An Irish Festival of Opera
From $6,195
EUROPE
Backstage at the Venice Film Festival
From $6,795
EUROPE
Italian Opera in the Footsteps of Verdi and Puccini
From $9,550
NORTH AMERICA
Cuba. The Time Is Now: A People-to-People Experience
From $6,495
SOUTH AMERICA
Colombia. Because Reality is Very Different
From $5,795
EUROPE
A Walk in Provence
From $6,195
EUROPE
Food & Wine, the Heart of Italian Culture
From $10,595
PREMIER
ASIA
A Taste of the Orient: Discover China
From $9,995
PREMIER
ASIA
Follow the Silk Route: The ’Stans of Asia
From $6,495
ASIA
Iran: Tales from Persia
From $6,995
ASIA
Journey into Myanmar
From $8,995
PREMIER
ASIA
The Colors of India
From $10,795
PREMIER
ASIA
Unlocking the Mysteries of Indochina
From $6,895
ASIA
Wild Sri Lanka
From $4,595
EUROPE
Espionage in Europe: Now & Then
From $7,450
EUROPE
Greek Isles, Turkish Shores
From $3,983.19
EUROPE
The Great War: What Was Won & What Was Lost
From $6,895
NORTH AMERICA
The Road to Gettysburg
From $4,550
ACTIVITIES & SPORTS EUROPE
ARTS & CULTURE
FOOD & WINE
HISTORY & CONTEXT
PREMIER
POLITICS & PERSPECTIVES ASIA
The Israeli-Palestinian Conundrum
From $5,950
EUROPE
The Northern Ireland Peace Process
From $5,695
EUROPE
The Russia Situation
From $10,795
PREMIER
AFRICA
The Two Sides of Southern Africa
From $15,195
PREMIER
AFRICA
The Wilderness Within: Kenya & Tanzania
From $14,495
PREMIER
SOUTH AMERICA
The Galápagos: Evolution in Action
From $6,395
SOUTH AMERICA
The White Continent: Fly and Sail Antarctica
From $15,695
SCIENCE & NATURE
102
EXPERTS See nytimes.com/timesjourneys for departures for specific experts
DEPARTURES JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
Christopher Dickey, Christopher Wren, Tim Neville
JUN
JUL
AUG
•
Jim Wilson, Angel Franco
SEP
•
• •
Fred Plotkin
• •
Alan Riding, Larry Rohter
• •
Alan Riding, Patrick Ollivier-Elliot, Raymond Sokolov, Nicholas Delbanco
•
•
Raymond Sokolov
•
Christopher Wren, Tim Neville, Celestine Bohlen Elaine Sciolino
• •
•
•
• •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Raymond Wilkinson
•
Nell McShane Wulfhart, Shivani Vora
•
Jon A. Wiant
•
•
•
•
•
Roger Cohen, Adam Nagourney, Steven A. Cook, Mark A. Stoler Richard Cohen James McPherson, Dennis Frye
• •
•
John F. Burns, Douglas Dalby
•
Serge Schmemann, David Shipler, Alison Smale
•
• •
John Burns, Alan Cowell
•
Jeffrey Gettleman, Tim Neville, Ray Bonner
•
Henry Fountain
•
•
Avi Melamed, Nadia Hilou, Arnon Soffer
To be announced
•
•
Steven Erlanger, John Darnton Elisabeth Bumiller, Somini Sengupta
DEC
•
A.O. Scott
Richard Bernstein, Tony Clifton
NOV
•
Fred Plotkin
Anthony DePalma, Frances Robles
OCT
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• JAN ’16 •
103
Book at nytimes.com/timesjourneys or call 855-698-1456 Download this Catalogue
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All terms and conditions can be found at nytimes.com/timesjourneys or you can call 855-698-1456 and request a copy be sent to you. Abercrombie & Kent CST#2007274-20, Mountain Travel CST#2014882-10, Academic Abroad CST# 2059002-40, Insight Cruises CST#2065380-40