Travellers Guide - Europe Winter 2009-2010

Europe Winter 2009/10 Incl. Ski & Snowboarding

Travellers Guide

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Inside you’ll find lots of important information about your tour & all the places you’ll visit

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Welcome to Contiki We at Contiki recognise that this may be your first trip to Europe so we have put this booklet together to provide you with as much background detail and information as we can about Europe and importantly, your Contiki holiday.

We have included our suggestions and ideas on many questions that you may have as well as providing general information on many of the countries you may be visiting on your trip. We hope this will help you in preparing for and enjoying your holiday. We have found from past experience that our clients enjoy their trip that much more having taken the time to carefully read this booklet before leaving home.

Most holidays are as good - or bad - as people make them and ours are no exception. Over forty five years experience and hard work have gone into planning and organising your holiday, and throughout the trip we’ll be doing our best to make it the ‘holiday of a lifetime’. Nevertheless, in the end, the success of your holiday will depend on you, for you will only get out of it what you yourself put into it.

Finally, we want to thank you for choosing Contiki - together we’ll prove that your choice for enjoyment, quality and value for money was the right one.

Ben Hall Managing Director Contiki Europe

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Personal details About me: Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................................ ................................................ email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mobile Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Blood Group: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Allergies: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s Licence (Home): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s Licence (International): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contiki ekit Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . PIN: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Emergency contact: Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Relationship:

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Passport details: Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Expiry Date: . . . . . . . . .

Date passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Where passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Holiday insurance: Company Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Policy Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Contents Before you go

7-14

• What and how much to bring • Baggage allowance • Checklist for touring & ski holidays • Insurance • Passports and Visas • Vaccinations • Currency/Credit cards • Leaving home • Making phone calls • Flying hints

The London scene

15-23

• Getting into London • London Underground map • Contiki’s London hotels • Map of hotels • Contiki London ‘The Basement’ • Useful information

Tour & ski departure details

24-26

• Departure points • Ski holidays by air • Pre-departure briefings • If you miss the coach

Touring the facts

28-31

• The Contiki team • Accommodation • Meals

Skiing the facts

32-35

• The resort of Hopfgarten • Meals • Ski piste map • Ski extras • Budgeting • Optional ski excursions • Ski jargon

General touring information

36-48

• Winter departures • Weekend & public holidays • Transport • Smoking • Music • Budgeting • Optional meals & excursions • Shopping • Photography • Health & hygiene • Local customs • Tipping • VAT • Calling home • Clothing sizes • Temperature chart • Calender • Useful words • Currency table • Mailing address • Contiki approved shops & factories

Europe uncovered

49-78

• Map • Austria • Czech Republic • Egypt • France • Germany • Great Britain • Italy • Liechtenstein • Monaco • Netherlands • Spain • Switzerland

Contiki notes

79-80

Stay in touch

81

Contiki’s offices

82

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Before you go What and how much to bring One of the most stressful decisions to make on any holiday is what to pack. To alleviate your concerns, we have set out the following checklist of useful articles to bring and our guidelines of how much is allowed. When packing, the golden rule of seasoned travellers worldwide is: Decide how many clothes you want to take - halve the amount and that’s how much you’ll need!

Baggage allowance Baggage is restricted to one reasonably sized suitcase.

Please ensure your suitcase is NO LARGER than 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) and maximum weight of 20kgs (44lbs) (non expanding) for all Time Out/Superior tours. On all tours the suitcase size and weight is very strictly enforced. Only 1 small piece of hand luggage will be allowed on the coach (maximum weight of 5kg/11lbs). These requirements are for your own comfort and safety. Please ensure that your suitcase is the correct size before departure.

If not you will be asked to change your suitcase on the morning of departure thus incurring extra costs of a new suitcase and storage of excess luggage.

Checklist Please read the checklist and suggested clothing list below.

In Europe in winter warm clothing is required.

Touring holidays • Warm rainproof jacket

• Jeans

• Thermals

• Thick Sweater

• Shirts

• Socks

• Underwear

• Towel (must have for Schoneck

• Comfortable walking shoes

ski tour)

• ‘Going Out’ shoes

• Sunglasses

• Sun screen

• Travel Alarm Clock

• Aspirin - medicines etc

• Flashlight

• Writing material

• Handkerchiefs - tissues

• Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses (if applicable) • Adaptor if you bring hair dryer or electric shaver (this should be purchased prior to leaving home). European voltage is different to that of North America.

Have you remembered your Rechargeable Phonecard?

(You will find your Contiki Phonecard, powered by ekit, in your document wallet. Your phonecard is already charged with enough credit to make a 5-minute call home, plus you get BONUS call time when you recharge it - check it out!!)

Fragonard Paris Une visite gratuite et guidée pour découvrir les secrets de la création des parfums dans nos usines de Grasse et de Eze-Village.

Welcome to the world of Fragonard. Free guided tour of our factories and museums.

MUSÉE DU PARFUM : 9 RUE SCRIBE 75009 PARIS T. +33 (0)1 47 42 04 56

MUSÉE DES CAPUCINES : 39, BOULEVARD DES CAPUCINES 75002 PARIS T. +33 (0)1 42 60 37 14

E-MAIL : TOURISME@FRAGONARD.COM . WWW.FRAGONARD.COM

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Before you go His and hers His: • Casual Shirts • Smart trousers • Tie • Blazer - Jacket Hers: • Skirts • Dresses • Smart dress (for evenings out)

Hand luggage - overnight bag On many tours, it is beneficial and useful to carry and pack overnight bags for overnight stops. We suggest that your piece of hand luggage serves as an overnight bag as well.

Clothing for ski & snowboard holidays For skiing, warmth is essential, but do try to avoid the bulk that is usually associated with keeping the cold out. It is far better to have a few layers of thin, but warm, clothing rather than one thick, restricting pullover. This means that you can peel off a layer at a time as you get hot from skiing (or falling over!).

Before you go, you should be sure to have the following: • Ski jacket: Should be snow and wind proof, warm, yet lightweight with enough room for two thin sweaters.

• Salopettes/ski pants/overpants: Should be of a warm, water resistant material.

• Gloves or mittens: It is essential to have a good pair of gloves or mittens. The best protection is provided by fleece-lined, waterproof, leather or gore-tex gloves/mittens.

• Sunglasses or goggles: Sunglasses or goggles are a definite 'must'. If you choose sunglasses, it is essential that they are shatterproof.

• Socks: A thin pair worn underneath a thicker pair or double layer of socks are usually the most comfortable.

• Sweaters: Two thin sweaters are warmer than one thick one.

Cotton polo necks are good to wear under wool sweaters as they provide protection for your neck.

• Après-Ski boots: Take rubber soled boots, preferably warm and waterproof.

• Hats: A hat is essential for warmth as you lose a lot of body heat through your head. It is a good idea to buy one that protects your cheeks.

• Sun screen: A waterproof, high protection factor sun screen will protect skin both from the strong rays of the sun and the drying effect of the wind.

• Lip screen: To provide protection from chapped lips.

Please Note: Ski clothing can also be hired in Hopfgarten.

See p.34 for details.

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Before you go Safeguards Pre-planning is essential before any trip; especially planning for the unexpected. On the next few pages we list common areas where mishaps can occur. By following the advice given you can save your trip of a lifetime from becoming your worst nightmare!

Travel Insurance All clients should have an insurance policy which covers the following: • Cancellation and curtailment • Loss of/or damage to baggage • Loss of money (cash), travellers cheques or personal belongings • Medical insurance If you are bringing along expensive articles such as jewellery, or photographic equipment, check the value per item covered by your travel insurance. If it is minimal you may wish to take out extra cover on these items - which also covers winter sports. Travel insurance can be obtained from your travel agent.

Please Note: Insurance for your ski holiday cannot be arranged at the ski village.

Security Regrettably, there are professional gangs of thieves operating in many areas of Europe. Your most important possessions such as passport, money and camera, should be carefully guarded at all times. The best way to do this is to carry some form of money belt or shoulder holster, rather than a wallet or a purse.

Always keep a copy of your passport details and extra passport photos, your insurance policy, used and unused travellers cheque numbers and credit card numbers separate from the originals. You can also store important details in your Contiki ekit Travel Vault. You can then access them over the web or the phone if you ever need them. Under no circumstances can Contiki be held responsible for the safekeeping of your money and valuables.

Visas (please read carefully) Depending on your nationality, you may require visas to enter certain countries included in your tour. You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your tour. Contiki are not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a tour. Consult your travel agent to determine which visas you require and how to obtain them.

Schengen Visas The majority of our tours travel in countries that are covered by the Schengen Agreement which relates to visas. Citizens of many countries – eg. Australia, United States, Canada, New Zealand – can travel in the Schengen area without a visa. If you require a visa to enter the Schengen area you only need to obtain one visa which will allow you to travel in all Schengen countries.

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Before you go Multiple Entry Schengen Visas Schengen visas can be issued for single entry or multiple entries. If your tour travels outside of the Schengen area at any point you will require a multiple entry visa. The tour that requires multiple entry Schengen visa is listed below: Spanish Spree.

Visas for Non-Schengen Countries Some of our tours also visit countries that are not covered by the Schengen Agreement. You may require visas for countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Egypt. Depending on your nationality it may be possible to obtain visas for Egypt upon arrival – you should check before you depart for your tour.

Health If you suffer from any form of illness, be sure to have an adequate supply of medicines or necessary prescriptions (this includes eyeglasses) before departing on tour. You must advise us of any important medical condition you may have, before departure.

Vaccinations No innoculations are compulsory at present for entry into European countries. However, regulations may change, so it is wise to consult your travel agent or doctor before travelling. In London, vaccinations are obtainable from: British Airways Travel Clinic, 213 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HQ. Tel: 0845-600-2236 (from the U.K).

Open: Mon-Fri 9.30 - 18.00 Sat 10.00 - 17.00.

NB: We do suggest that you are up to date with tetanus and polio vaccinations prior to commencing your holiday.

Money matters With all our modern day technology, there are so many different forms of money to tempt us. Nothing is more frustrating than finding that perfect souvenir only to find that you don’t have the right type of currency to purchase it. From cash to credit cards, what is best in Europe? The following advice should help alleviate many of your worries.

NB: See page 36-38 for advice on how much money to bring.

Currency / Credit cards Access to money whilst on your tour is very important. We highly recommend that you carry your currency in a number of different ways so that you have access to money at all times.

It is always advisable to start your tour with some cash in local currencies such as Euro, Swiss Franc or Great British Pounds.

Beyond that cash there are a number of options: • Access cash from your own bank account via a debit card – having a card with either the Visa or Maestro logos on it will mean you have access at a large number of cash machines.

• Purchase a pre-paid debit card via a company such as Travelex which allows you to load money onto the card which

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Before you go Currency / Credit cards cont’d: can be withdrawn while you are overseas. You may even be able to buy your card in Euro which means you know exactly how much you’re spending in advance.

• Credit cards – use your credit cards from home to reduce the amount of cash you need to carry. Most restaurant, shops, museums, sights, etc. in Europe will accept payment by credit card.

• Almost all cash machines in Europe require a pin number to be entered when using them – ensure your debit cards, pre-paid cards and credit cards have a pin number connected to them.

Note: Contiki optional excursions can NOT be paid for by credit card.

Making phone calls We’ve spent some time researching the market and spoken to our clients to find out exactly what your communication needs are while you’re on a Contiki tour. As a result we think we’ve come up with a fantastic service to meet your requirements, the Contiki Global Phonecard, powered by ekit.

How do you get a Contiki Global Phonecard?

1. In your Contiki travel documentation 2. At your pre-departure meeting (London only) 3. At www.contiki.ekit.com - you can join and charge your card easily over the web 4. Via 24-hour Customer Service - call the access number of the country you are in (these are listed on your card or go to www.contiki.ekit.com) and press 0 #. For example, in the UK free phone 0800 032 6297, then press 0#.

Your Contiki Global Phonecard is more than just a phonecard. It has heaps of great value features: • A Free 5 minute call home pre loaded and ready to go!

• Low Cost International and Long Distance Calls: Save up to 70% when using payphones and hotel phones calling from over 150 countries.

• Messaging: Friends and family can leave you voicemail messages for FREE - no matter where you are. You can then retrieve your messages over the phone or on the web. Send SMS (text messages) from the web to any mobile phone worldwide - check it out at www.contiki.ekit.com.

• Email: a free email address, where you can pick up your voice messages and emails.

• 24 x 7 Customer Service: Our multilingual team provide FREE assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call the free phone Access Number for the country you are in and press 0 # to speak with a Consultant.

One of the best things about the Contiki Global Phonecard is that it is RECHARGEABLE! No more buying phonecards in every country you visit or using cards that have instructions in languages you can’t read!

Always go to www.contiki.ekit.com for all the latest Access Numbers and calling tips. Remember if you dial an ekit Access Number and get a recorded message you can still make your call - it’s just telling you that there is a new number with even better rates - so use it next time you call.

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Before you go The Contiki mobile Do you want the convenience of a mobile (cell) phone?

The Contiki mobile, powered by ekit, allows you to save 70% on international roaming rates. If you have a tri-band (GSM 900/1800/1900 MHz) handset, you can buy a Contiki SIM card for only US$9. All SIM's come with $10 call credit already loaded. If you do not have an unlocked handset, you can buy a handset and SIM package for only US$39! Check out www.contiki.ekit.com for more information. The Contiki mobile has some great features including • Saving you 70% on international roaming rates • Free to receive calls in the France, Italy, Spain and the UK • Send text messages from only US$0.49 • Free 24/7 customer service in over 50 countries • Frequent users receive 50% bonus calling time Check out www.contiki.ekit.com for more information.

Flying hints Ensure you carry all your travel documentation in your hand luggage, plus your camera, toiletries, paperbacks, etc.

Make sure you take advantage of Duty-Free shopping but check the current Duty-Free limits that apply in the country of your destination. Don’t carry items packed by others and never accept packages or articles to carry from people not known to you. The longer flights to Europe can be made a little more enjoyable by wearing loose clothing and comfortable shoes, as well as walking the aisles regularly, eating sensibly and drinking plenty of fluids (preferably not alcoholic). Try to get some sleep and, upon arrival, adjust immediately into local time by waiting until evening before sleeping - this should relieve the effects of jet-lag.

Checklist • Have you labelled your suitcase inside and out?

• Have you all the necessary medication you will need?

• Do you have your airline tickets, passport, travellers cheques, insurance policy, credit cards, visas, cash, Contiki’s ‘Ticket to Ride’ in your hand luggage? You can also store these important details in your Contiki ekit Travel Vault. You can then access them over the web or the phone if you ever need them.

• Have you made a photocopy of your passport?

• Do you have your driving licence and vaccination certificate with you?

• Do you have your camera, and spare memory cards?

• Have you remembered your Rechargeable Phone Card?

(Contiki ekit card is supplied in your tour documents or can be obtained from the Contiki ‘Basement’ in London).

NB: You’ll need your Contiki ‘Ticket to Ride’ to board the Contiki coach on the morning of departure. Keep your passport on your person.

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Contiki London scene Getting into London From London Heathrow airport

By Underground: Catch the Piccadilly Line from London Heathrow Airport directly to Russell Square Station, a few minutes walk from the Royal National Hotel & Imperial Hotel.

Cost £4.00 single. Prices are guideline only and are subject to change.

Heathrow express train: This express train runs from London Heathrow Airport to Paddington Station and departs every 15 minutes from 05:10 to 23:30, 7 days a week. A taxi from there to the Contiki Basement, the Royal National Hotel and Imperial Hotel will be about £10. Cost £14.50 single. Prices are guideline only and are subject to change.

From London Gatwick airport By train: Catch the train from Gatwick Airport to Victoria Station from 01:05 to 23:48, 7 days a week and takes approximately 45 minutes. Timetable available at the station in the airport. Single: £9.00. Prices are guideline only and are subject to change.

Gatwick express train: This express train runs from London Gatwick Airport to Victoria Station from 05:20 to 01:35, 7 days a week and takes approximately 30 minutes. Timetable available at the station at the airport. Single: £14. Prices are guideline only and are subject to change.

A taxi from Victoria station to the Contiki Basement, the Royal National Hotel and the Imperial Hotel will be about £15.

Alternatively, take the London Underground Victoria Line from Victoria station to Green Park, change to the Piccadilly Line and go straight to Russell Square, which is a few minutes walk from the Contiki Basement, Royal National Hotel and the Imperial Hotel.

Contiki’s London hotels (see map) Royal National Hotel (2 Stars), Bedford Way (enter from Woburn Place), London WC1H 0DG Reception Telephone: +44 20 7637 2488 We offer discounted rates for Contiki clients and the accommodation is based on twin and triple share only.

This is also the departure point for all Contiki tours that start in London (except the London & Paris tours), and the Contiki Basement is located on the lower ground floor of the South Wing of the Hotel.

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Contiki London scene

Imperial Hotel (3 stars), Russell Square, London WC1B 5BB Telephone Reception: +44 20 7837 3655 We offer discounted rates for Contiki clients and accommodation is based on single and twin share only.

Both hotels are within a few minutes from Russell Square Underground Station. All rooms have colour TV with tea & coffee making facilities. There is a wide range of restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs and coffee shops either in the hotels or in the area. The Royal National Hotel and the Imperial Hotel are located near London’s West End, close to the British Museum, Oxford Street for shopping and Covent Garden and Leicester Square for nightlife.

NB: CHECK-IN AT THESE HOTELS (AS WITH THE MAJORITY OF HOTELS IN LONDON), IS 14:00 AND CHECK-OUT IS 11:00.

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Contiki London scene The Contiki Basement in London Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way London, WC1H 0DG Tel: 020-7637-0802 Fax: 020-7637-2121 email:basement.rep@contiki.co.uk The Contiki Basement is located at the Royal National Hotel along Bedford Way, with access to the Basement from the street only, and not from the hotel.

The Basement is open 7 days a week as follows: 01 October – 30 May 11:00 – 19:00 01 April - 30 April 11:00 - 20:00 01 May – 30 September 09:00 – 20:00 Meet your fellow tour members here, chill out and catch up with new and old friends, and seek advice and a friendly smile from our helpful, knowledgeable Contiki Representatives.

They will also give you information on your pre-departure meetings, departure times, tour arrival times, travel tips and general London information to make your stay in this exciting city more enjoyable.

On arrival, collect your "Welcome to London Pack", and take advantage of our wide range of facilities available at the Contiki Basement: Hotel check-in: If you are staying at the Royal National Hotel, come directly to the Contiki Basement to check-in to the hotel.

If you are staying at the Imperial Hotel, you can go directly to the Imperial Hotel to check-in.

Internet café: Use our internet café (at cost) to let your friends and family know you have arrived safely in London, or email after your tour with all your adventure stories.

Chill out area: Our wide-screen TV is tuned into MTV and appropriate international sports games, for you to relax to.

Luggage storage: If you want to head out and discover the energy of London, store your luggage with us until you want to check into your hotel after 2pm, for £1 per bag for the day. If you have done a lot of shopping, or have luggage over 20kg (44 pounds), you can store your things at the Basement for the duration of your tour for £5 per bag per week.

Shipping: Bought lots of fantastic souvenirs on your Contiki tour and need to get them home or simply have too much luggage and need to get it home? We can arrange to have it shipped home for you.

Mail pickup point: You can have letters and parcels sent to the Contiki Basement, which you can pick up when you arrive. Our address is: Contiki Basement, Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way, London WC1H 0DG England.

Please be sure to have your name clearly on the mail, with the date you are due to arrive, and if possible a booking reference number, to avoid confusion.

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Contiki London scene Discounted sightseeing tickets: You can purchase tickets for London’s famous attractions: • Madam Tussauds • London Dungeons • Original Bus Tour & many more.

Day sightseeing trips out of London: Through Evan and Evans, we can offer you day trips to Bath, Stonehenge, Windsor, Hampton Court, Salisbury, the Cotswolds, Althorp, Warwick Castle, Canterbury, Leeds Castle and many more.

Please ask for more information.

Tour bookings: If you are interested in making the most of tour discounts, or are curious about which tour you want to do next, please see us for all the information, and we can book your tour for you on the spot!

Contiki merchandise: We sell sleeping bags and Contiki towels at the Basement, so no need to bring them from home. You can also pick up an inflatable neck pillow to take on tour.

Postcard sales: Write all your postcards on your arrival to ensure the postcard arrives home before you do.

Luggage scales: Come in any time during opening hours to check that your luggage is no heavier than 20 kg (44 pounds), as this rule is strictly adhered to.

London Pre-Departure meetings: It is strongly recommended that you attend these meetings. You can meet your Tour Manager, Tour Driver and your fellow travellers, as well as complete the necessary paperwork. Bring your passport, travel insurance details & ‘Tickets to Ride’ voucher booklet with you. The Contiki Basement will not be open before the coaches depart in the morning, so please see the Reps for all your requirements the day or evening before during opening hours.

London

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Contiki London scene 01 October – 30 April: All pre departure meetings will be held in the Contiki Basement at 18:00.

Morning of departure: All tours (except the London & Paris tours) depart from the courtyard of the Royal National Hotel.

Please meet in the London Coffee, which is situated in the courtyard, to have your luggage weighed and be directed to your Tour Manager by the Contiki Representative. If you miss your tour, please report to the Contiki Basement so we can help you to catch up with your tour.

01 October to 31 March: All winter tours meet at 06:45 for a 07:30 departure. (except ski tours).

Arrival of tours in London: Most tours arrive in London any time between 16:00 and 20:00, depending on weather, traffic, and other external factors out of our control.

Useful information Opening & closing hours: Shops: Monday-Sunday 9.00am-5.30pm. Times may vary locally.

Banks: Monday-Friday 9.30am-4.30pm. Several banks are also open on Saturday mornings.

Main Post Offices: Monday-Friday 9.00am-5.30pm.

Saturday 9.00am-1.00pm

London

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Contiki London scene Useful information cont’d: Telephones: ekit UK access number: 0800 032 6297 or 020 7943 2772* ekit hints on calling in the UK: • When dialling on a pulse phone, after you dial the access number hold down the star key (*) key for two seconds to revert the phone from pulse to touch-tone.

• When calling an economy Access Number * (e.g. London 0207 943 2772) you will be charged a per-minute rate for making the local call by the UK telephone company.

The Contiki Global Phonecard per-minute rate will be cheaper when economy numbers are dialled.

Phone boxes are usually red, green or black in colour.

Most take a variety of coins or telephone cards which may be bought from the Client Information Centre, Post Offices and most newsagents displaying the green ‘Phonecard’ sign.

Tipping: 10% is usual in restaurants, unless a 12.5% service charge has been added.

Late Night Money Exchange: Thomas Cook, Victoria Station: Mon-Sat: 7am - 11pm, Sunday: 7am - 8pm Travelex, Royal National Hotel, Ground Floor. Open 7 days 8.00am-8.30pm. (closed Christmas Day to New Years Day).

Post Office - International Telephone Exchange: Telephone Exchange, Global Talk, 68 Marchmont Street, London, WC1 1AB Pubs: The pub is a British way of life and there are many different types in London. Opening hours: 11.00am-11.00pm in the central London area.

London taxi

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Contiki London scene Travellers’ tips: • It is better to cash travellers cheques in a bank. Hotels & Bureaux de Change rates are poor and commission fees high.

• Be careful about local guides wanting to show you the sights of London and ensure that they are recommended by an agency or the Tourist Board.

• Check the price of telephone calls from hotels before making them - use your Contiki ekit Phonecard.

• Beware of people offering to take your photo or asking for money no matter what the reason.

• Never leave your baggage unattended.

Useful London addresses & telephone numbers Tourist Information: Dial Leisureline for the day’s events: 0891-505-440 Tourist Boards: British Tourist Authority and London Tourist Board Victoria Station, London SW1. Tel: 020-8846-9000 Wales Tourist Board 34 Piccadilly, London W1V 9PB. Tel: 020-7808 3838 Scottish Tourist Board 17-19 Cockspur Street, London SW1. Tel: 020-7930-8661 Irish Tourist Board Ireland House, 150 New Bond Street, London W1.

Tel: 020-7493-3201

Consulates and Embassies New Zealand Office of the High Commissioner New Zealand House 80 Haymarket London SW1 4QT Tel: 020-7930-8422

Australia Office of the High Commissioner Australia House Strand London WC2 4LA Tel: 020-7379-4334

Canada Office of the High Commissioner 38 Grosvenor Square London W1X 0AA Tel: 020-7258 6600

United States Grosvenor Square London W1A 1AE Tel: 020-7499-9000

South Africa High Commission Trafalgar Square London WC2N 5DP Tel: 020-7451-7299

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Contiki London scene Useful telephone numbers Airlines

Confirmation Numbers

Air Canada Air New Zealand

0871 220 111 0800 028 4149

British Airways

08708 509 850

British Midlands

08706 070 555

Cathay Pacific

0208 834 8888

Malaysian Airlines

08706 079 090

Qantas

08705 726 827

Saudi Arabian Airlines

0207 798 9868

Singapore Airlines

0844 800 2380

United Airlines

08458 444 777

Virgin Atlantic

0870 80 2007

London transport information London Underground

0207 222 1234

National Rail Enquiries

08457 48 49 50

National Express Coaches

08705 808 080

London area airports Heathrow

0870 000 0123

Gatwick

0870 000 2468

Stansted

0870 000 0303

Luton

0158 240 5100

London City

0207 646 0088

Getting around If you are staying in London for more than a few days it is advisable to buy an ‘A-Z of London’ which gives detailed maps of all London’s streets, etc.

Underground: By far the quickest and easiest way to get around the capital is by Underground. There are over 250 stations, easily recognisable by an illuminated symbol.

Underground trains run every few minutes between 5.30am and midnight every weekday and Saturday and between 7.00am and 11.30pm on Sundays. Single and/or return tickets are available from the ticket machines. Keep your ticket safe - you must surrender it at your destination.

Travel Cards may be bought after 9.30am weekdays or at any time on weekends. These give you unlimited travel on buses and tubes for one day and save you money. For more information, ask for a leaflet at Underground Stations or telephone +44 20-7222-1234.

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Departures - tour & ski Tour departures London Departures from: The Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way, London WC1 HODG Telephone: +44 20-7637-2488 Contiki’s Reception: +44 20-7637-0802 Fax: +44 20-7637-2121

Tour departure times: Great Britain: Report: 6.45am

Depart: 7.30am.

European Tours - Time Out (Superior): Report: 6.45am Depart: 7.30am Please ensure you allow enough time to reach the Royal National Hotel as all bags will be weighed before being loaded on to the coach. Be very wary of early Sunday departures as the underground does not start until 7.00am.

Clients staying at the Imperial Hotel must wait outside the hotel on Southampton Row at 6.30am to be collected and transferred to the Royal National Hotel.

Rome, Berlin, Vienna, Madrid & Cairo Departures: Please refer to your voucher and/or itinerary for your tour meeting time and location.

Ski holidays Departure/return times The coach departs on Friday from the Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way, London WC1. Tel: +44 20-7637-2488 at 7.00pm.

It arrives into Hopfgarten approximately 3.00pm the following day and returns on Saturday at around 11.00pm.

Please note the last trains from Russell Square: Southbound is at approximately 00.15am Northbound is at approximately 00.43am En-route to Hopfgarten In order to give you the most time for you to ski, we drive straight to the ski village. The drive is mostly on motorways with ample restaurants and coffee bar facilities en route.

In view of the fact that part of the journey is in the early hours of the morning, you might like to bring a small inflatable pillow with you. In addition, we suggest you bring along a snack for the journey.

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Departure - tour & ski Ski holidays by air Munich airport (Munchen flughaven) to Hopfgarten Berglift.

• When you have landed make your way to: Zentrum Bereich - Central Area.

• Purchase your ticket at the Train Counter direct to Hopfgarten Berglift.

• Catch the S-Bahn (Subway) to Munchen Ost – journey takes approximately 15mins.

• At Munchen Ost change platforms (usually to the platform directly opposite).

• Wait for the fast train which comes approximately every 40 minutes.

• Catch train from Munchen Ost direct to Wörgl approximately 1hr 20min journey.

• Change at Wörgl and catch a train from Wörgl to Hopfgarten Berglift - approximately 12 min journey.

• These trains go every hour, however it is difficult to get a train after 10pm at night.

• Please be aware that the station to disembark at is Hopfgarten Berglift and not Hopfgarten (there are two stops in Hopfgarten).

• From Hopfgarten Berglift you can phone Haus Schöneck to arrange for someone to come and collect you.

• An alternative is a taxi from Wörgl straight to Haus Schöneck - approximately 25 Euro for the taxi.

Innsbruck airport (flughaven) to Hopfgarten Berglift • Innsbruck is the easiest and quickest place to fly in to.

• From airport take Shuttle Bus to central Train Station (Bahnhof).

• Shuttle buses depart every 15 minutes.

• Catch train from Innsbruck to Wörgl train station – approximately 40mins journey.

• Trains leave every 45 minutes. Make sure you catch the fast train and not the regional train that stops at every stop.

• Change at Wörgl and catch train from Wörgl to Hopfgarten Berglift - approximately 12 min journey.

• These trains go every hour, however it is difficult to get a train after 10pm at night.

• Please be aware that the station to disembark at is Hopfgarten Berglift and not Hopfgarten (there are two stops in Hopfgarten).

• From Hopfgarten Berglift you can phone Haus Schöneck to arrange for someone to come and collect you.

• An alternative is a taxi from Wörgl straight to Haus Schöneck - approximately 25 Euro for the taxi.

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Departures - tour & ski Salzburg airport (flughaven) to Hopfgarten Berglift.

• From airport take shuttle bus to central train station (Bahnhof).

• Shuttle buses depart every 15 minutes.

• Catch train from Salzburg train station to Wörgl train station – approximately 1.5 hour journey.

• Trains leave every hour – make sure you catch the fast train and not the one that stops at every station.

• Change at Wörgl and catch train from Wörgl to Hopfgarten Berglift - approximately 12 min journey.

• These trains go every hour, however it is difficult to get a train after 10pm at night.

• Please be aware that the station to disembark at is Hopfgarten Berglift and not Hopfgarten (there are two stops in Hopfgarten).

• From Hopfgarten Berglift you can phone Haus Schöneck to arrange for someone to come and collect you.

• An alternative is a taxi from Wörgl straight to Haus Schöneck - approximately 25 Euro for the taxi.

If you miss the coach Tours starting in London Should you miss the coach, please contact the Contiki Representative immediately at the Contiki Basement at the Royal National Hotel on +44 207 637 0802. They will give you specific details on how to join your tour.

Tours starting in Rome, Berlin, Vienna, Madrid, or Cairo Please contact the Contiki Agents on the telephone numbers listed in your itinerary.

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Touring - the facts The Contiki team Tour Managers: He or she has been thoroughly trained by Contiki throughout Europe and/or Great Britain. The role of your Tour Manager is to ensure that you have the trip of a lifetime. They organise everything on tour, from accommodation and sightseeing to optional excursions.

They also complete all the ‘behind the scenes’ work of pre-booking, border and customs procedures to make your tour hassle-free.

In some circumstances, it may be necessary for your Tour Manager to make decisions on behalf of the group as a whole. In such cases, we ask for your co-operation, bearing in mind the variety of personalities and expectations on board the coach. We try to get the right balance of sightseeing and free time. Whatever you want from your holiday, your Tour Manager aims to provide it for you.

Drivers: With their experience you are in good hands.

The Driver is responsible for the coach and we ask you to remember that they have to keep it clean for everyone’s comfort. Please adhere to the suggestions made to you at the beginning of your tour regarding waste paper, eating and drinking whilst on board the coach. The Driver and Tour Manager work as a team. You may often see them together planning your days, to offer you great variety and choice.

Accommodation Where you stay: We have chosen a wide range of accommodation in order for you to best appreciate what Europe has to offer. From a magnificent 4-star Plus Resort in Vienna to a traditional Château in France. Our special Feature Hotels have been chosen for their particular character, charm, location and style. Hotels on other evenings are great too - they’re tourist class and have excellent facilities.

Please bear in mind that the diversity and cultural differences seen almost every day in Europe can also be seen where you stay. While some clients prefer the older style hotels, others enjoy a more modern design and our accommodation list offers a good balance of each style to suit everyone’s tastes.

It is always difficult not to compare European hotels with the similar category of hotel at home or on another continent where you have travelled. Generally speaking, European hotels are of a slightly lower standard than their equivalent category in North America, Australasia or South Africa and they tend not to have the modern amenities such as airconditioning, tea and coffee-making facilities, etc.

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Touring - the facts

Accommodation (cont’d) Please note: All contracts for your accommodation are negotiated by Contiki many months in advance. There may be times when hotels will provide alternative accommodation to that advertised in the brochure. Such situations are beyond Contiki’s control and we will do our utmost to minimise any inconvenience.

Your room: Rooms are booked on a twin-share, triple-share or single basis with private facilities consisting of either a bath or shower, with a few exceptions. It is worth pointing out that room sizes in European hotels are often much smaller than in non-European countries.

Twin-bedded or double rooms: If you prefer a double bed, please speak to your Tour Manager however these cannot be guaranteed.

Triple rooms: Rooms with three beds are normally slightly larger.

Single rooms: They are often small, but give the privacy of single occupancy.

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Touring - the facts Accommodation cont’d: Reception: Most hotels have English-speaking staff at reception. Any needs you have should be directed through them, for example if the towels need changing or a light requires fixing. Generally, you will find the staff helpful and friendly, especially in the more traditional older style hotels.

However, staff tend to be as pleasant with you as you are with them.

Hotel notice board: Your Tour Manager will place an information sheet or ‘Day Sheet’ at each hotel confirming details of the programme. Please check the notice board regularly.

Porterage: We find that young people on holiday can easily carry their own reasonably-sized suitcases which means there is no endless waiting, in your room, for the porters to arrive with the luggage. Hence porterage is not included in hotels.

Telephones: Most hotels have direct-dial facilities and should you telephone home, we ask you to settle your bill the night before departure at reception. Remember that hotel phone bills can be very expensive, we recommend you use your Contiki ekit Phonecard to make your phone calls home using the toll-free access numbers, which will be cheaper.

Check with your Tour Manager to find out if the hotel allows 0800 numbers to be dialled. Remember - even if the hotel does not allow access to 0800 numbers, you can still dial one of the local rate numbers listed at www.contiki.ekit.com.

Alternatively, most cities have international phone centres, which your Tour Manager will gladly point out for you.

Laundry: Laundry facilities are available at some hotels.

However, the service normally takes one full day and is not normally available during weekends. It is, therefore, only possible to arrange laundry on two-night stops. Please note it can be expensive and in some cities your Tour Manager may be able to suggest alternatives.

Security: We strongly recommend you use the hotel security boxes where available. Please remember that you will need to keep your passport with you if you intend to cash travellers cheques during the day. And don’t forget to collect all items from your security box before you leave the hotel!

Remember to keep your valuables and passport with you at all times.

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Touring - the facts Accommodation cont’d: Room service: The hotels we use do not provide room service; this is normally only available in 5-star hotels.

Check-in and departure: Check-in varies from hotel to hotel and your Tour Manager will advise you of the procedure at each hotel. Hotel departures are very straightforward but once again please follow your Tour Manager’s lead and always remember to: Check your room carefully before you leave, return your key to reception and pay all your incidental charges Meals: Breakfast is always continental style; rolls, butter, jams, tea or coffee. Sometimes in northern European countries an egg or possibly some cheese is added. This will certainly seem different to home and somewhat repetitive if you are used to a cooked breakfast. However, this is normal in Europe, especially in the more southern, hotter countries. Dinner is Table d’Hôte style. Generally this is a three-course meal with the main dish of meat or fish. Should you have any special diet requests, e.g. vegetarian, your Tour Manager will try to organise an alternative menu. Remember that drinks are not included, but the waiters can help you choose soft drinks, local wines or tea and coffee. A reasonable standard of dress is expected at all restaurants and we therefore request that no sports shorts or singlets be worn at evening meals.

Rome

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Skiing - the facts Gondola

Hopfgarten information Contiki’s accommodation in Hopfgarten: Gasthof Schöneck, A-6361 Hopfgarten, Nord Tyrol Austria. Telephone: +43-5335-2563 Gasthof Schöneck facilities: Gasthof Schöneck offers internet facilities, laundry service, sauna and a lively bar.

NB. Please remember to bring a towel if you are staying at Gasthof Schöneck.

Meals Ski holidays in Hopfgarten are on a bed and breakfast basis.

For real value for money consider taking the half board option which entitles you to 5 three-course evening meals at a fraction of the cost of equivalent meals in town. You will still have 2 free nights per week stay to sample the many Gasthofs in the village.

If you choose to stay on a bed and breakfast basis you should allow g15 for a meal and drink in town. Lunches are not provided by Contiki. You should allow approximately g10 per day for lunch in addition to your aprés ski costs and other spending money.

Please Note: The half board option cannot be booked in Hopfgarten. Ensure you have made your booking with Contiki or your travel agent before you leave home.

Eiberg 1673m

Salvenmoos

Brandstadt 1650m

Hartkaiser

Neualm

Sรถll 700m

Astberg 1267m

Itter 700m

Rigi 1532m

Hohe Salve

Zinsberg 1674m

Westendorf 800m

Penningberg

Brixen i Thale

HOPFGARTEN

Hochbrixen

Kelchsau

Talstation 789m

Gampen 1956m Fleiding 1892m Choralpe 1820m Talkaser 1760m Kandleralm Alpenrose 1553m Mittelstation 1320m

There are 45 snow cannons producing artificial snow to cover a total of 28km of piste just in the Hohe Salve area alone.

Ski Runs Easy Medium Difficult Ski Lifts Gondola

Scheffau 752m

Ellmau 820m

Going

St Johann in Tyrol

Kitzbuehler Horn

contiki.com

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Skiing - the facts Hopfgarten information

Ski village facilities

Hopfgarten has all the necessary facilities to make your stay as entertaining and enjoyable as possible. The village has a post office, banks, supermarkets, doctors and a pharmacy.

There are many restaurants and bars.

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Skiing - the facts Ski extras If you have not taken advantage of the Contiki ski and snowboard equipment offers available at the time of booking, you will be able to purchase a lift pass, hire equipment and book ski lessons to suit your needs when you arrive in Hopfgarten through the Contiki team, at the following approximate costs:

No of days

Cost Per Person in Euro

Ski Welt pass

6 days 13 days

180 299

Equipment hire

6 days 13 days

47 95

(Skis, Boots, Poles,Board, Boots)

Lessons ski & snowboard

Cost Per Person in Euro

Ski lessons: 5 days x 4 hours per day (including certificate) 3 days x 4 hours per day

116 109

Snowboard lessons: 5 days x 2 hours per day 3 days x 2 hours per day

116 95

Combined lessons: 3 days x 4 hours Skiing & 3 days x 2 hours boarding

Ski clothing hire

Hopfgarten Jacket/Pants - Ski Suit

178

Cost Per Person per week in Euro 50

Please Note: Please bring your own gloves & sunglasses/goggles as they cannot be hired in Hopfgarten.

It is not possible to pay for ski extras by credit card.

Please Note: i) Prices shown are approximate and may be subject to change. ii) Bigfoot, Carving and cross country skis may also be hired. Please speak to the Manager.

The Ski Welt ski pass provides access to 279 km (172 miles) of marked pistes, served by 91 lifts.

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Skiing - the facts Other activities Hopfgarten not only offers downhill skiing, but a whole range of winter sports activities e.g. toboganning, cross-country skiing (langlauf) and walks for those who prefer the contrast of a day’s rambling. There’s also the chance to take a ride in a horsedrawn sleigh by moonlight. (See “Optional ski activities and excurions”, this page.)

If you are an intermediate or advanced skier/snowboarder and would prefer not to take group lessons, you can take advantage of private lessons or half day guided tours designed to familiarise you with the area. Please speak to the Site Manager.

The Contiki Team The Site Manager and Contiki team will always be on hand to help you enjoy your holiday. On arrival in Hopfgarten, they will be able to provide you with full details of après-ski activities and excursions.

Budgeting on your ski holiday We recommend you take approximately g30 in cash if travelling to Hopfgarten to cover refreshment stops on the coach journey. We would also suggest carrying some Sterling to meet your requirements for the cross-Channel ferry. Also remember if you are staying in Hopfgarten on a bed and breakfast basis you must allow money for lunch and dinners. See page 32.

Please Note: Cash advances are only available in the ski village at an ATM. You will need a pin number. Credit Cards cannot be used in the village.

Optional ski activities and excursions You’ll find a whole range of optional activities and excursions available. We call them ‘optional’ because it is up to you whether you join in or not. To help you budget your holiday, we have listed some of the optional activities and excursions available below.

Sleigh Ride: Cost approximately g22: A romantic evening aboard a ‘two horse open sleigh’. Through mountainous forests, we stop in a cosy Gasthof to warm up to the tunes of a local musician before our return journey to Hopfgarten.

Tandem Paragliding: Cost approximately g110: Experience the thrill and beauty of paragliding through the crisp mountain air from the top of the Hohe Solve mountain to the Hopfgarten valley below. You’ll be accompanied by a qualified pilot who knows ‘the ropes’. An experience you’ll never forget.

Ice-skating & dinner: Cost approximately g23: Why not try iceskating on a frozen alpine lake? Finish the evening with a typical Tirolean meal.

Please Note: It is not possible to pay for optional excursions by credit card.

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General touring info Winter departures On winter departures, please bear in mind the inconsistency of European weather and the shorter daylight hours. For these reasons it may be necessary to make earlier starts and it may not be possible to offer all our Optional Excursions. Also the winter months can be used by some public works departments to decorate, renovate or renew exhibitions and therefore some public buildings could be closed. You will, however, have the advantage of much less crowded museums, buildings and restaurants, etc.

Weekends & public holidays It is unavoidable to have a touring programme that is not in certain cities on weekends, public holidays or days of closure for public buildings, shops & museums. We regret you may miss certain opportunities but these are kept to a minimum.

Please see the country info in the back of this booklet for further information.

Transport Your coach: Throughout Europe we use a fleet of modern, airconditioned European and British coaches, the ultimate in comfort, safety and reliability with contoured seats, panoramic tinted windows and built-in stereo sound system.

For the duration of your tour the coach is like a home. Care should be taken to maintain its cleanliness. We do not regiment our clients and no system for seat rotation is arranged. However, out of consideration to others, window seats should not be monopolised. This also permits everybody to mix rather than stay in isolated groups. To make the most of your days we sometimes make an early start.

There are times when your driver has the day or evening off due to laws established by the European Union (EU). There will be a few occasions, therefore, when transportation will be at your own expense.

A number of our coaches are fitted with toilets. Please be aware that due to the very limited disposal facilities in Europe, these are for emergency use only. Frequent comfort stops are provided.

Smoking: Smoking is not permitted on the coach, but frequent stops are made when travelling.

Music: All our coaches are fitted with CD players. However, our supply of CDs is not inexhaustible and passengers are invited to bring along their favourites or their MP3 player.

Budgeting How much money should I bring?: This is a difficult subject to give advice on because the amount varies from person to person and a lot depends on how much you spend on shopping (there’s plenty to tempt you in Europe!), entertainment, drinks, optional excursions and entry fees to museums, etc.

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General touring info Budgeting cont’d: If possible, bring more money than you intend to spend, and then if you see something you really can’t resist you won’t be disappointed - don’t forget your credit card.

On the following pages, we’ve tried to give you some idea of the expenses you’re likely to incur.

Entrance fees/free time: In every city you visit there will be a good mix of organised sightseeing plus time to explore the city on your own. Everyone has a different idea of what they want to see and do in their free time - visiting museums and galleries, shopping, coffee in an outdoor café or just walking the streets to feel the atmosphere of the city.

In our experience we have found that you should budget approximately £30/m45 per day for incidental expenses.

This does not include major shopping items.

Your meals: Your tour cost includes breakfast and dinner most days, as specified on your itinerary. When dinner is not included, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the local cuisine and be free to do your own thing or choose one of the optional meals organised by your Tour Manager. Lunch is not included except where specified on our itinerary, as most people have their own idea of how much and what they eat in the middle of the day. As a general guide, allow approximately £7/m10 per day for lunches.

Optional meals & excursions: A Contiki holiday is all about exciting ‘once in a lifetime’ experiences. Your holiday cost includes many visits and meals as listed in the brochure for your specific tour. In addition, as everyone has their own idea of how they want to spend their free time, we also have a range of optional visits, activities and local meals available throughout your tour. We call them ‘optional’ because it is entirely up to you whether you join in or not - there is no pressure on you to do so.

The style of eating varies from country to country and part of the fun of travelling abroad is to be able to sample a whole range of culinary specialities. From experience, we have not planned meals in restaurants in some cities as we feel it is better for you to explore and find your own venue by yourself or with a few friends. Yet, in other places, and particularly in peak season, it can be difficult to find a good meal at a fair price and we have organised to eat as a group and sample the local cuisine at a reasonable cost. Our Optional Meals and Excursions give you the chance to get the most from your trip with plenty of opportunities to see typical shows, sample the local food or just wander at your leisure.

All excursions can be booked through your Tour Manager and to help you plan your budget, our list of Optional Excursions and Meals available is shown on our website and in your tour itinerary sent to you with your travel documents.

For any optional trips that you choose, your Tour Manager will make firm bookings in advance and you will be liable for the cost of all excursions you have booked, a minimum of

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General touring info Budgeting cont’d: 48hrs cancellation notice is required - please allow approximately £10/m15 per day for Optional Excursions and £20-£25/m30-40 per Optional Meal.

These optionals are available via third party suppliers. Contiki does not own nor operate any of these excursions but rather has used its buying power to negotiate favourable rates on your behalf with local suppliers and excursion operators.

NB: Credit cards cannot be accepted as a form of payment for Optional Excursions/Meals.

Summary of approximate costs Here’s a summary of the various expenses you’re likely to incur during your tour.

Expenses Approximate Costs Lunches £7/m10 per meal Optional Meals £15-£20/m30 per meal Ferry Crossings £7/m10 per meal Optional Excursions £10/m15 per day Incidental Expenses £30/m45 per day

Shopping Certain cities and countries in Europe are well known for their local crafts, e.g. leatherware from Florence, cuckoo-clocks and watches from Switzerland, clogs from Holland, glass from Venice; the list and variety is endless.

As part of your tour, you will be given the opportunity to see demonstrations of local craftsmen at work. Contiki selects a factory or shop for their standard of demonstration and the quality of service and product guarantee. We feel they offer good value for money and are highly responsible and established traders. However, we stress that you are under no obligation to purchase anything. You may find another shop with cheaper products, others may be more expensive.

Ultimately, it is your choice.

Some shops may provide a mail service, but please be aware that it can take up to six months and sometimes longer for the goods to arrive home and, on arrival, perhaps be liable to pay customs and excise duty. We strongly recommend you obtain a copy of customs regulations before you leave home as they vary in almost every country.

Health & hygiene Life on a Contiki tour can get quite hectic with early mornings and late nights which makes it easy for you to catch a common cold, the flu or aggravate an existing medical condition. Ensure you look after yourself and eat healthy food as much as possible.

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General touring info Health & hygiene cont’d: Water in some areas is undrinkable, so please take care your Tour Manager will advise you. Bottled water is cheap and easily found throughout Europe.

If at any time you feel unwell, your Tour Manager will assist you in contacting a doctor for consultation. Please remember the quality of medical services varies considerably from country to country in Europe and that medications available over the counter at home may only be obtainable on prescription in Europe.

If you are on a regular course of medicine/contraception you must bring a supply sufficient for the whole time you are away from home. We also suggest you bring a small supply of antiseptic cream, Band Aids, Aspirin, insect repellent, cough mixture and perhaps a supply of antibiotics. These are not carried on the coach and are your responsibility.

All Contiki coaches carry a sealed comprehensive First Aid Kit for use in a coach emergency only.

Lost property Contiki cannot accept responsibility for property left by clients in hotels, coaches, restaurants, etc. We will, however, do our best to recover anything you might have forgotten.

Please advise your Tour Manager as soon as possible.

Contiki also recommend that you enter your important document information into your Contiki ekit Travel Vault.

This ultra-secure facility allows you to keep a record of all your important information, eg: passport and visa details, credit card and travellers cheques numbers and loads more, plus you’ll have access to this 24-hours a day.

Rome

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General touring info Local customs While touring Europe you are a guest in each country you visit and traditions and customs vary greatly from country to country. Your Tour Manager will inform you of local customs as you enter each country but here are a few examples: In Italy you are not allowed to enter a church unless your upper arms and legs (for both men and women) are covered.

This means that shorts, mini-skirts and sleeveless tops are not allowed.

It is customary in most countries and compulsory in others to pay a token amount or tip the attendant for the use of public toilets in railway stations, motorway rest-stops, etc.

Generally, if the local people see you respecting their customs they are complimented and you are likely to be well received by them. Remember, as an adult you will be held liable for your actions according to the individual laws of each country. Meeting the people of the countries you visit will enhance your enjoyment and increase the value of the memories you take back with you. Always remember, ‘When in Rome...’ NB: On our Egypt tours, please see your final itinerary for further useful hints.

Tipping This is becoming an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars, and taxis worldwide. Likewise on your Contiki tour, if you feel that your Tour Manager and Driver have done an excellent job, then as a guide we would recommend tipping up to the equivalent of m2 per passenger per day. However, this is not compulsory. It's up to you!

Egypt tours: As we use local guides, drivers and boat crew on these tours, we would ask you to consider tipping (per person) the following amounts (or local equivalent), subject to the service provided being of a sufficiently high standard: Local Tour Guide $3 per day Local Driver $3 per day Train staff $2 per journey Hotel staff/barman $1 Boat Crew $3 per day (Egypt total crew)

Value added tax On larger purchases, VAT can be reclaimed upon completion of the necessary forms and showing your purchases as you leave the country. VAT paid in European Union (EU) countries can only be reclaimed upon your final departure from the EU. Please speak to your Tour Manager for further details.

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General touring info

London

Calling home Generally speaking, the Western European countries have an efficient system, the operators speak a reasonable level of English and telephone booths and offices are easily found.

Your Contiki Global Phonecard will save you up to 70% off hotel and payphones for international and long distance calling - which means more money for souvenirs and big nights out.

Check your travel documents for your Contiki Phonecard or go to www.contiki.ekit.com.

To make a call dial the Access Number from the country you are in, enter your Account Number and press #, your PIN and press # and then 2. You then dial the country code, area code (without the 0), and the phone number.

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General touring info Calling home cont’d: All access numbers are listed on your card, or ask Customer Service; or refer to the individual destination pages of this guidebook.

Sometimes the ekit Access Number may change, to provide you with better call rates. If you hear a recorded message, Stay On The Line To Complete Your Call or use the new number given. Always go to www.contiki.ekit.com for the latest access numbers.

International telephone country codes Australia 61 Canada 1 Great Britain 44 Hong Kong 852 Indonesia 6 Japan 81 Malaysia 60 New Zealand 64 Singapore 65 South Africa 27 USA 1 Your Tour Manager will gladly recommend the most efficient and convenient places to call home.

Email The fastest way of communicating with your family and friends.

Internet cafés are plentiful in Europe and your Tour Manager will be able to point you in the right direction starting off with the Internet café at Contiki’s London Basement.

Clothing sizes Sizes vary from country to country around the world.

No doubt while in Europe you will want to buy clothes, so as a guide we have listed the approximate comparative sizes. However, we do recommend before making the purchase, you make sure you are happy that the size of the article you are purchasing is correct.

Shopping in Italy

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General touring info Clothing sizes cont’d: Men suits and coats American/English 36 Continental 46 Shirts American - English 15 Continental 38 Sweaters S American/English 34 Continental 44 Shoes 1 American 7 ⁄2 Continental 40 Women dresses, coats American 32 English 10 Continental 38 Blouses and sweaters American 32 English 34 Continental 40 Shoes American 5 English Continental Children’s wear American English Continental

38 48

40 50 1

42 52 3

15 ⁄2 39

15 ⁄4 40 M 36-38 46-48

44 54

1⁄ 2

1⁄ 2

1

17 43 XL 44 54

10 44

11 45

L 40-42 50-52

1

36 38 44

48 58

16 ⁄2 42

16 41

1

8 8 ⁄2 9 ⁄2 41 42 43 and suits 34 36 12 14 40 42 34 36 42

46 56

38 40 46 1⁄ 2

38 16 44

40 42 48 1⁄ 2

40 18 46 42 44 50

44 46 52

9

9

1⁄ 2

5

6

7

8

3 ⁄2 36

1

4 37

5 38

6 39

7 40

7 ⁄2 41

1

8 42

1 1 1

4 2 2

6 5 5

8 7 7

10 9 9

13 10 10

15 12 12

Temperature chart Below you will find the average temperatures of 11 major cities in the early afternoon. Use this information to help you choose the type of clothes to bring with you on your Contiki tour. All temperatures are shown in centigrade.

Amsterdam Barcelona Cairo Edinburgh London Lucerne Paris Rome Vienna

J F M A M J J A S 4 5 8 11 16 18 21 20 18 13 14 16 18 22 25 27 28 26 24 26 28 31 33 34 35 35 33 6 6 8 10 13 17 18 18 16 6 7 9 13 17 20 22 21 18 0 3 7 12 16 20 22 21 17 6 7 11 16 19 23 24 24 21 12 13 17 20 23 28 31 31 28 1 3 8 14 19 22 24 23 19

O 13 22 31 12 13 11 15 23 13

N 8 17 29 8 9 6 9 17 7

D 5 14 25 7 7 2 6 13 3

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General touring info CALENDAR 2009 January

February

March

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22

2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

T

W

T

F

S

T

W

T

F

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

April S 5 12 19 26

M 6 13 20 27

S

May

July

S 31 3 10 17 24

5 12 19 26

S

August

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

October

M

T

W

T

F

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

S

M

T

W

T

F

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

June

M 4 11 18 25

S 1 8 15 22 29

S

S

September

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

30 2 9 16 23

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

November

S

M

T

W

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S

December

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

S

M

T

W

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S

CALENDAR 2010 January

February

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

T

W

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 3 9 10 16 17 23 24 30

April S 4 11 18 25

M 5 12 19 26

S

March

M

T

W

T

F

S

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28

2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

T

W

T

F

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

May S

July

S

M

30 2 9 16 23

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

August T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

31 3 10 17 24

M 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

S

November

6 13 20 27

S

T

W

T

F

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

S

M

T

W

T

F

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S 6 13 20 27

S

September

M

S

M

June S

S

October

S 7 14 21 28

S

M

T

W

T

F

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

S

T

W

T

F

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

December

M

T

W

T

F

S

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

S 5 12 19 26

M 6 13 20 27

S

Via Cassia No 1 - 50124 Galluzzo (Firenze) Tel. (055) 2048876 - 2047109 - Telex 571350 CERTOS I

MUSICAL EVENINGS AND FLORENTINE FOLKLORE The true tradition of the most genuine Tuscan cooking SPIT - GRILL - GAME - BUFFET

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General touring info Currency conversion table To assist you when converting the excursion costs into your own currency, the table below gives details of approximate exchange rates (as of 16th June 2009). As exchange rates vary, this information should be used as a guide only: GBP SFr Egy P EURO

US$ 0.60 1.08 5.60 0.71

C$ 0.52 0.94 4.84 0.61

A$ 0.49 0.87 4.51 0.57

NZ$ 0.39 0.70 3.63 0.46

R 0.08 0.14 0.72 0.09

GBP 1.00 1.79 9.27 1.18

Useful words ‘When in Rome...’ language is no barrier to foreign travel, but it helps to know a few of the more common phrases. It’s fun to try and the fact that you have made the effort is appreciated by the people of the country.

English

French

German

Spanish

Italian

Bonjour

Guten Morgen

Buenos dias

Buongiorno

Goodbye

Au revoir

Auf Wiedersehen

Adios

Arrivederci

Please

S’il vous plait

Bitte

Por favor

Per favore

Thank you

Merci

Danke Schön

Gracias

Grazie

Yes

Oui

Ja

Si

Si

No

Non

Nein

No

No

Good morning

Where is?

Où est?

Wo ist?

Dónde ésta?

Dové

The toilet

les toilettes

die toilette

el lavabo

il gabinetto

The bank

la banque

Die Bank

Banco

Post Office

la Poste

Die Post

Correos

How much?

Banca Ufficio Postale

Combien?

Wieviel?

Cuanto?

Quanto?

The bill

l’addition

Die Rechnung

La cuenta

Il Conto

Ladies

Dames

Damen

Enoras

Donne

Gents

Messieurs

Herren

Senores

Uomini Francobollo

Stamp

Timbre

Briefmarke

Sello

One/Two

Un/Deux

Eins/Zwei

Uno/Due

Uno/Due

Three/Four

Trois/Quatre

Drei/Vier

Tres/Cuatro

Tre/Quattro Cinque/Sei

Five/Six

Cinq/Six

Funf/Sechs

Cinco/Seis

Sept/Huit

Sieben/Acht

Siete/Ocho

Sette/Otto

Nine/Ten

Neuf/Dix

Neun/Zehn

Nueve/Diez

Nove/Dieci

Seven/Eight Open

Ouvert

Geöffnet

Abierto

Aperto

Closed

Fermé

Geschlossen

Cerrado

Chiuso

Hot

Chaud

Heiss

Caliente

Caldo

Cold

Froid

Kalt

Frio

Freddo

Water

Eau

Wasser

Agua

Acqua

Tea

Thé

Tee

Té

Té

Coffee

Café

Kaffee

Café

Caffé Birra

Beer

Bière

Bier

Cerveza

Wine

Vin

Wein

Vino

Vino

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

Entschuldigung sie

Perdón

Scusi

(Sorry)

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General touring info Mailing addresses Contact addresses during your tour are listed in your itinerary. Please remember that mail can be very slow in parts of Europe. Airmail letters should be posted at least 15 days before arrival date of the tour and addressed as follows: ‘To await arrival’, Client’s Name, Contiki Tour Name and Departure Date, c/o Address as shown.

We do not recommend sending mail to countries outside central Europe as the mail service is very unreliable.

Contiki-approved european shops & factories City Amsterdam Florence

Name of Company Irene Hoeve Leonardo’s Leather works

Innsbruck Lucerne

Swarovski Harry’s Swiss Watch Centre

Paris/Grasse/Eze St. Goar

Fragonard Montag’s Souvenir Shop

Venice Venice

Galleria San Marco Il Merlettol Lace School

Main Proucts Dutch clogs, cheese Italian leather, fashion ware, handbags, silver & gold jewellery Austrian Crystal Swiss watches, Swiss army knives, souvenirs, cuckoo clocks French Perfume Beersteins, German knives, Steiff bears, Birkenstocks, cuckoo clocks, souvenirs Venetian Glass Venetian Lace

NB: At certain times of the year, i.e. Bank Holidays, it may not always be possible to visit some of the shops and factories listed above. Your Tour Manager will keep you informed.

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Europe uncovered Finland FINLAND Gulf of Bothnia

Norway NORWAY ESTONIA Estonia Russia RUSSIA

SWEDEN Sweden Scotland SCOTLAND

Latvia LATVIA Denmark DENMARK

Baltic Sea

Lithuania LITHUANIA N.Ireland N.IRELAND S.IRELAND S.Ireland

North Sea

Irish Sea

Belarus BELARUS

NETHERLANDS WALES Wales

ENGLAND England

POLAND Poland

Netherlands Germany GERMANY

Belgium BELGIUM English Channel

Ukraine UKRAINE

Czech Rep CZECH REP Slovakia SLOVAKIA

FRANCE France

AUSTRIA Austria SWITZ Switz

Hungary HUNGARY SLOVENIA Slovenia Croatia CROATIA

Atlantic Ocean

Italy

Romania ROMANIA

Bosnia BOSNIA ITALY

Serbia SERBIA Adriatic Sea

MONTENEGRO Montenegro

Portugal PORTUGAL

BULGARIA Bulgaria Black Sea

MACEDONIA Macedonia

Mediterranean Sea

SPAIN

Albania ALBANIA GREECE Greece

Spain

Turkey TURKEY

Ionian Sea Costa Blanca Costa del Sol

Cyprus CYPRUS

ISRAEL

Egypt EGYPT

Red Sea

The following pages aim to give you a taste of the countries visited by Contiki. We hope you will find this section interesting and useful, though of course it only skims the surface of what each particular country has to offer - as you’ll soon find out!

AUSTRIA Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time Difference:

Vienna Euro 8,190,000 83,850 sq. km (32,375 sq. miles) Language: German is the first language but most educated Austrians speak English, French and Italian to varying degrees.

Ethnological Mix: in Tyrol areas people are almost pure German stock; in the Danube Valley, however, they are a mixture of Germanic, Slav & Magyar.

Warm pleasant summers with cool nights, sunny winters with snow levels high enough for widespread winter sports.

GMT + 1 hr.

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Europe uncovered Old Vienna Schnapsmuseum Near Schönbrunn Castle

4 genera tions under o ne roof!

Since 1875 the Fischer-Family has been producing Schnaps and Liquer including their famous “Schönbrunner-Goldlikör” containing 23 carat gold leaf. Since that time nothing has changed, neither the interior of the house, nor the way of production. Come and see the Fischer-Family, experience a warm welcome and enjoy a sampling of their products.

An attractive and rewarding short stop.

Internet: www.schnapsmuseum.com e-mail: office@schnapsmuseum.com

AUSTRIA cont’d: Geography Austria is a small country enclosed in the heart of Europe, at some points only 40km (24 miles) across and only 560km (335 miles) long. Nevertheless Austria offers more variety than almost any other country in Europe - moody plains with rocky outcroppings are crowned by castles and dense green forests reminding one of medieval legends and fairy tales. The beautiful Danube flows for miles through the country, acres of vineyards cover the land and of course there are the Alps - some of the most breathtaking and dramatic peaks in the world.

Places of interest in Vienna City of music: See statues of famous composers such as Strauss and Mozart in the Stadtpark and the Hofburg Gardens.

See inside the historic Stadtsopera house, rebuilt since bombing in WWII. Horse and buggy tour: Go on a horse and buggy ride around the city centre. It is the best place in Europe to take advantage of this mode of transport with liveried drivers, shining coaches and immaculate gleaming horses.

Vienna coffee: Try an array of coffee blends available and perhaps splurge on a traditional Austrian apple strudel or a slice of the Viennese cake, Sacher Torte.

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Europe uncovered AUSTRIA cont’d: Kartnerstrasse: Shop for high quality items in the city’s major pedestrian shopping street. Mozart ball chocolates are a must!

Hofburg Palace: Explore the former apartments of the Hapsburg family in their Winter Palace; stately in design and opulent in decoration.

Schatzkammer (Palace Treasury): Visit the home of the crown jewels of the Hapsburg Dynasty, and see royal robes and artifacts formerly belonging to the Royal Family.

Closed Tuesdays.

Manners and customs Austrians tend to be fairly formal in both their social and business dealings. One should shake hands when greeting or saying goodbye. It is considered impolite to leave a restaurant or shop without saying ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ - Goodbye. Food specialities include Wiener Schnitzel and Knodel (dumplings).

Tipping is not high, but widespread. On restaurant bills, 1015% is added and it is usual to leave only the small change.

Best buys Local handicrafts, Dirndls, embroidered blouses and lederhosen (leather pants), woodcarvings, dried flower pictures, Viennese petit point, winter sports equipment, crystal glassware and schnapps. ekit access number: 0800 677 664 ekit hints on calling in Austria: To get a dial tone or make calls you might need to deposit some coins, a local phonecard or swipe your credit card. ekit economy number (Vienna 01-253-084-0529) provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

CZECH REPUBLIC Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time Difference:

Prague Czech Crown (Kcs) 10,250,000 78,860 sq.km (30,500 sq. miles) Language: Czech is the official language, English & German are both widely spoken.

Population is majority Czech with a large amount of Slovaks. Minorities include Hungarians, Polish & Germans.

The average yearly temperature over the country is 10.7°C (51°F) and in Prague 9.7°C (50°F) - with temperatures dropping according to height above sea level.

GMT + 1 hr.

Geography Czech Republic lies in the geographical centre of Europe, covering a distance of 767 km (477 miles) west to east and 276 km (171 miles) north to south. It borders Germany and Poland in the north, Slovakia in the east, Hungary and Austria to the south and again Germany to the west.

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Europe uncovered CZECH REPUBLIC cont’d: The country has many large mountain ranges and approximately one-third of the territory is covered with forests. A considerable part of the Czech Republic’s natural wealth consists of mineral springs - there are some 3,000 of them.

Places of interest in Prague Explore Hradcany district: officially the third town of Prague.

Founded in 1320, here you’ll find Hradcany Castle, St Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace and the Golden Lane. Don’t miss the changing of the guard (takes place on the hour) or the stunning views of Prague and the Vltava River.

Stroll along the Charles Bridge (Karlov Most): this bridge boasts 26 statues in Baroque and Gothic style and is favoured by musicians, artists and tourists alike. Have your portrait painted or purchase local arts and crafts.

Relax in the Old Town Square: beneath the Astronomical Clock (built in 1490 by a master clockmaker) you can sit back and enjoy a local beer and traditional Czech fare.

Shop: around Wenceslas Square (part of the new town of Prague) you’ll find plenty of treasures, both old and new, to take home.

From modern fashion to traditional Bohemian Crystal there is something here for everyone.

Manners and customs A very friendly welcome is the norm here from the locals.

They enjoy many sports especially skiing, ski touring and mountain walking.

This builds a healthy appetite for some of their favourite foods like sauerkraut, dumplings, goulash, ‘bramborake’ a kind of potato pancake and many flavoured cream cakes etc. Beer is their most popular drink. Their culture includes considerable folklore, film and music festivals and trade fairs.

Best buys Bohemia crystal/glass, china, fashion jewellery, works of art, products of folk art and Pilsner Urquell beer. ekit Toll Free access number: Contact Customer Service

EGYPT Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Cairo Egyptian Pound (LE) 76,000,000 1000,000 sq.km Language: Arabic, although there are various dialects of Bedouin Siwan and Nubian.

English and French is also spoken, though not too widely. The ethnic population includes the Christian Cops (direct descendants of Ancient Egyptians) 14%, Nubian and Bedouin tribes adding a traditional African culture and 85% Egyptians following the Sunni Muslim religion.

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Europe uncovered EGYPT cont’d: Climate:

Time Difference:

Egypt is hot and dry most of the year, but its low humidity makes the heat bearable. In the summer, temperatures range between 30°c (86F°) and 50°c (122F°) in the south, while at night it can be very cold. The change in temperature in 24 hours can be as much as 37°c (99F°).

GMT + 2 hrs.

Geography Egypt is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea (north), Sudan (south) and Libya (west). The Sinai is the eastern front of Egypt which borders Israel to the north-east. The Red Sea and Gulf of Suez surround its other broader territories. Egypt mostly consists of flat desert regions apart from the fertile Nile valley and the coastal areas. It also has many oases and some rocky mountainous regions. The Nile river extends some 1200 km (745 miles) from the south to the north of Egypt.

Manners and customs The people are very religious, warm and hospitable. It is a great honour for them to act as host to foreign visitors. They also have a good sense of humour.

Ramadan is the most important Islamic festival where devout Muslims fast from dawn till dusk for a month. Learn to relax and slow down in Egypt - time is not a priority there. ‘Baksheesh’ is a tip for service and sometimes used wrongly as a bribe or to beg from tourists.

Best buys Papyrus paintings, jewellery, beaten copperware, stone carvings and perfume.

Making calls from Egypt To make calls from Egypt use our Callback Service.

1. Using any touch-tone phone, dial 0044 207 984 2142 (please note International call charges apply).

2. When prompted, enter the country code, area code (without the leading 0) and phone number you wish to be called back on, then press # and hang up.

3. After 20 seconds, your phone will call back. Answer the phone as normal. * You will be connected to the ekit phone service.

4. When prompted, enter your ekit account number and PIN. 5. Press 2 at the main menu to make a call.

6. Enter the country code (e.g. 1 for US), area code (without the leading 0) and phone number of the person you wish to call, then press # to be connected.

Tips on using callback from Egypt: To use Callback from a hotel that uses a switchboard, ask the hotel operator to transfer the Callback call to your room. Refer to the Calling Tips or print a Country User Guide.

55 contiki.com

Europe uncovered FRANCE Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate: Time Difference:

Paris Euro 60,424,000 543,965 sq.km (210,025 sq. miles) Language: French, Breton and Basque are also spoken as well as many other dialects.

Ethnological Mix: the majority of people are French. Germans, Britons, Italians, Spaniards, Algerians, Moroccans and Portuguese make up 7 per cent of the population.

Summers hot especially in the South.

Fairly cold winters.

GMT + 1 hr.

Places of interest in Paris Eiffel Tower: Travel to the top of this remarkable feat of engineering and design, brainchild of Frenchman, Gustav Eiffel. Long-recognised as a symbol of the city, it is stunning by night and the view is breathtaking by day.

Louvre: Visit the home of one of the world’s most important art collections and see the two most popular exhibits, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo of the Hellenistic Age. (Closed Tuesday).

Shops and Markets: Browse through the stores of the Champs Élysées, Rue de Rivoli and Blvde Hausman, or perhaps buy in one of the city’s many fashion houses in this, the home of haute couture.

Arc De Triomphe: Visit the world’s most famous triumphal arch and photograph the amazing view of twelve avenues radiating from the arch at the centre. Magic!

Musée d’ Orsay: Explore the world’s largest and most comprehensive Impressionist Collection featuring work by the likes of Pierre-August Renoir, Edgar Degas and Vincent Van Gogh. (Closed Monday).

Pompidou Centre: Visit this “building turned inside out”, a clever example of modern architecture and design and home to the Modern Art Museum. (Closed Tuesday).

Places of interest in Nice Promenade des Anglais: Wander along this 19th century beach-front street in the footsteps of Queen Victoria and soak in the atmosphere of “the life of the rich and famous”.

Le Cours Saleya Markets: Explore the many stalls featuring a variety of goods for sale and also a vast array of fruit, vegetables and fragrant flowers.

Old Town: Enjoy the relaxed nightlife atmosphere of the many bars and restaurants which inhabit this district of town.

Le Fort-Chateau: Appreciate the fine view of the coastline and beaches from the top of these 12th century castle ruins.

7 amaz ing tou rs to p ick from

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Europe uncovered FRANCE cont’d: Places of interest in Cannes Palais du Festivale: Visit the home of the famous annual Cannes Film Festival and follow in the footsteps (or trace the handprints) of stars the likes of Mel Gibson, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Sharon Stone and Whoopi Goldberg!

Manners and customs Handshaking is performed on meeting and parting.

The French are often seen by outsiders as brusque as they will greet a foreigner as they would a fellow citizen. A few words of French will receive a more friendly reply than a request as to whether English is spoken. At some restaurants the same cutlery will be used for all courses.

Best buys Perfume, sunglasses, china and glass, silk scarves, gloves, coffee, cheese and wine. eKit access number: 0805 113 721 or 0800 902 292 eKit hints on calling in France: • To get a dial tone or make a call you may need to enter some coins, a local phonecard or swipe your credit card.

• ekit economy number (Paris 01-73-04-56-78, Marseille 04-88-92-01-61, Nice 04-89-12-00-32) provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

GERMANY Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Berlin Euro 83,030,000 357,849 sq.km (138,167 sq. miles) Language: German. Most Germans speak some English. Russian and French are also spoken in some areas. Ethnological Mix: various teutonic tribes. Important regional differences between Prussian, Swabians and Bavarians - difference in

dialect, cuisine and local customs.

Climate:

Time Difference:

Climate is temperate, with warm summers and fairly cold winters. Prolonged periods of frost or snow are rare.

GMT + 1 hr.

Geography The Federal Republic is divided into sixteen regions (Bunderslander). It borders the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, Poland and the Czech Republic. The range of scenery is vast, from the Baltic Coast and Islands and the Harz Mountains in the North, the national wine region of the Rhineland in the centre, to the southern area of the Black Forest, and the Alps.

stein t Beer Bigges in n o ti c Sele r y! Ove n a m r Ge s in in te S 3,000 ! stock!!

• Beersteins made since 1600 • Cuckoo Clocks made since 1740 • Birkenstocks Made since 1774 • Wuesthof knifes made since 1814 • Steiff Teddy’s made since 1880 • Hummel Figurines made since 1935 So, come in and take a look around, you will be amazed, with the selection that we have to offer!!!

We are looking forward to meeting you in one of our stores!!!

Worlds largest freehanging Cuckoo Clock! Over 300 different clocks!!!

STOCK N E K R BI Montag Steins & Clocks Gmbh Heerstrasse 128 56329 St Goar Tel: 06741-934120 and 2488 Fax: 06741-2086

www.beersteincenter.de - MClock@aol.com

You are interested in 100% German products? Then visit our shops we only carry the best German products!!!

59 contiki.com

Europe uncovered GERMANY cont’d: Places of interest in Munich Frauenkirche: Explore this symbol of the city, restored after WWII, and perhaps travel to the top of the dome for an impressive view of this city almost totally rebuilt after the devastating bombings it suffered.

Viktualien Markets: Wander through the area longestablished as the food markets of Munich and sample some of the local culinary treats such as various kinds of German sausage, pretzels, pastries or, for health-minded people; the best black cherries in the world!

Hofbrauhaus: Visit the oldest and most historic beerhall in this, the city of beer and sample some of its fine brews. Nondrinkers and drinkers alike can appreciate the history and atmosphere in this building where Hitler used to rally his troops.

Deutches Museum: Tour through one of the finest science and technology collections in the world. Although it would take days to see it all, those of you with a scientific interest may want to spend your time visiting this amazing museum in your free time.

Places of interest in Berlin Shoot: photographs of the bird’s-eye-view from the top of the city’s television tower 207m (680 ft) which rises above Alexanderplatz. You can see for 40km (25 miles)!

Travel: back in time at the internationally renowned Pergamon Museum, home of the Pergamon Altar (dating back to 180-159BC) and also to Egyptian and Byzantine Collections.

Visit: Haus Checkpoint Charlie museum, dedicated to a display of “life behind the wall”, courage, bravery and ingenious escape plans. A “must-see”!

Wander: up the “Unter Den Linden” into the former “East Berlin” and past the site where Hitler’s infamous book burnings used to take place and the impressive University Buildings.

Explore: the Zoo Station area, lively, interesting and full of fantastic shopping opportunities - a great place to get a taste of Berlin.

Manners and customs Both married and older women are addressed as ‘Frau’.

Tipping is not expected. Customs for formal dress are comparable to Britain. Germany is famous for Rhine wines, Munich Beerhalls, carnivals such as Fasching and Oktoberfest - both in Munich - and the world-famous ballet in Stuttgart.

Berlin

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Europe uncovered GERMANY cont’d: Best buys Cameras, binoculars, beer steins, kitchen knives. ekit access number: 0800 100 6492 or 0800 182 2261 ekit hints on calling in Germany: • Some phones do not have a # key. You can still access the phone service without using the # keys. Wait a few extra seconds for a voice prompt.

• To get a dial tone or make calls you might need to enter some coins, a local phonecard or swipe your credit card.

• Some phones need to be put into tone mode. Do this by pressing a series of buttons on the phone. There is a button to the right of the ‘6’ button. It looks like a diamond with a dot in the middle and a line going out to the right. To put a phone in tone mode, press that diamond button, then ‘*’, then the diamond button again. ekit economy number (Berlin 030-3001-90670, Frankfurt 069-6677-75528, Munich 089-7104-24543)provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

GREAT BRITAIN England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland Capital: Currency:

London Pounds & Pence

Population:

60,943,000 242,000 sq.km (93,440 sq. miles) Language: English - with varying dialects throughout the country, Welsh in parts of Wales and Gaelic in parts of Western Scotland and Southern Ireland.

Very mixed and unpredictable - warmer in the South. Summer extends from June to September, Winter - November to February - can be wet and dark.

Area: People:

Climate:

Geography Great Britain is situated off the North-West coast of Europe.

Although a comparatively small country, it has a great variety of scenery in its towns and countryside. England is hills and rolling downs, low plains and river valleys. Scotland offers wild mountainous scenery in the scarcely populated highlands and islands, while Wales is a country of ancient hills cut by numerous rivers and valleys. Northern Ireland covers only about one-sixth of the total area of Ireland and is a land of unspoiled coastline and countryside, with beautiful inland lakes, mountains and hundreds of rivers and streams.

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Europe uncovered GREAT BRITAIN cont’d: Places of interest in London Buckingham Palace: Definitely at the top of the list.

See the Changing of the Guards (which is on every other day at 11.00am). You’ll have to be there early to get a good viewing point.

Tower of London: Take a tour with a Beefeater and also see the Crown Jewels. You’ll find out who lost their head and where.

Madame Tussaud’s: This is the original and the best.

Mingle with all your favourite stars, royalty and politicians, then ride in a black cab through London’s history. Don’t forget the Chamber of Horrors to give you a good scare.

British Museum: You could easily spend all day here - the place is huge. It’s just around the corner from the Royal National Hotel and there are plenty of different sections to choose from.

Open-Top Bus Tour: Some are all day jump on and off and some are just a tour. It’s a great way to see London.

For The Shoppers: Definitely no shortages, Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Harrods, Chelsea, High Street Kensington & Camden Market.

Eating places Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Hard Rock Cafe (Green Park tube station), Planet Hollywood (Leicester Square or Piccadilly tube stations)

Must do’s Two more things for the list - a ride in a black cab and the Underground (tube).

Places of interest in Edinburgh Edinburgh Castle: The most famous and you certainly can’t miss it - just look up the hill! A guided tour of the castle is available with the Scottish Crown Jewels on view.

Gladstone’s land: This is a great place to see exactly what a 17th century Tenement building looked like. It sets a picture of how the people of Edinburgh lived.

Writers Museum: Three famous writers all from Scotland have their treasure on show - Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott.

For the shoppers: Princes Street, Waverley Centre, King James Centre.

Places To eat: Waverley Centre, streets running off Princes Street, Grassmarket.

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Europe uncovered GREAT BRITAIN cont’d: Places of interest in York York Minster: This is the largest medieval Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, Definitely make the effort to go and have a look and then if you’re really keen climb the 275 stone steps to the top of the Tower for unbelievable city views.

For the shoppers: Parliament Street, Stonegate, Shambles, High and Low Petergate Places to eat: There is no shortage of restaurants and cafes in York.

Manners and customs The English are said to be traditional and conservative but they’re also a nation of eccentrics and are known for their marvellous sense of humour. Scotland is noted for its bagpipes, kilts, haggis and whisky. The Welsh have a passion for rugby and music and you’ll also find many indecipherable road signs in Wales!

Best buys Ready-made clothes, cashmere, shortbread, tartan, tweed, electrical goods. ekit access number: 0800 032 6297 or 020 7943 2772* ekit hints on calling in Great Britain: • When dialling on a pulse phone, after you dial the access number hold down the ‘*’ key for 2 seconds to revert the phone from pulse to touch-tone. In Scotland the BT Contour 100 payphones are pulse phones. ekit economy number (London 0207-943-2772, Nationwide 0845-085-0855, Edinburgh 0131-464-0372)provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

ITALY Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time Difference:

Rome Euro 58,057,000 301,225 sq.km (116,300 sq. miles) Language: Italian with regional dialects, English is widely spoken. Ethnological Mix: Italian and Central European.

Italy has a Mediterranean climate; dry hot summers in the coastal areas of the South; warm summers with cool nights in the North - average temperature 24°C (75°F) in summer. Winters are cold with occassional falls of snow GMT + 1 hr.

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Europe uncovered ITALY cont’d: Geography With Mediterranean and Adriatic coastlines, Italy borders on France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia in the North. Italy is a boot-shaped peninsula, the second longest in the world (after Baja California) and stretches from the Alps and the Dolomite mountain range in the North to the volcanic island of Sicily in the South.

Places of interest in Florence Ponte Vecchio: Cross Florence’s oldest bridge and indulge in a spot of “window shopping” as you pass by the exclusive shops and take in the scenery either side of the River Arno.

Accademia: Explore some of the works of Michelangelo and Botticelli displayed in this, the home of the statue of David which is one of the masterpieces of the Renaissance period.

(Closed Monday).

Gold and leather: Shop for some of the finest quality 18ct Italian gold jewellry you’ll ever see - so much variety and plenty of styles to choose from. Shop for highly fashionable leather jackets, bags, belts and shoes. You can just see the quality and the superior workmanship.

Uffizi gallery: Follow the evolution of Italian art from it’s beginnings right through to the 17th century and housed in the former administrative offices of the Medici family. Works by Giotti, Veronese, Tintoretto and Caravaggio. (Closed Monday).

Places of interest in Rome Pantheon: Marvel at the “best preserved” ancient building in Rome with it’s 43.3m (142 ft) open-topped dome. Take in the peaceful atmosphere of this final resting place of the Kings of modern Italy and the artist, Raphael.

Vatican: Visit the wealthy and opulent Vatican museum which is overflowing with Classical and Renaissance art as well as Greek and Roman antiques. Also visit the Sistine Chapel; with it’s ceiling that was enriched by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. See St. Peter’s Basilica which took a century to build on the site of St. Peter’s martyrdom. (Closed every Sunday except last Sunday of the month open till 1.30pm).

Spanish Steps: Enjoy this meeting place near the via Condotti (exclusive shopping street) and watch the passers-by.

The Spanish Embassy was by this site in the 17th century, hence it’s name, and the area is now a popular meeting place.

Roman Forum: Explore the former centre of political, commercial and judicial life in ancient Rome. Examine the ruins of pagan temples, markets and arches.

(Closed early on Sundays).

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ITALY cont’d: Fontana Di Trevi (Trevi Fountain): Experience the magic and romance of the city’s most famous fountain, completed in 1762. ‘Three Coins In A Fountain’ & ‘Roman Holiday’ scenes were filmed here.

Places of interest in Venice Appreciate: the majesty of “the finest drawing room in Europe” in the words of Napoleon, with covered galleries and fine cafe’s. Experience the view from the top of the campanile (Bell Tower) - the finest bird’s-eye look at the city!

See the Byzantine influence in architecture of the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica. (Closed Sunday).

Rialto Bridge: Explore this unusual hump-backed bridge which was designed to allow an armed gallery to pass under it. Visit the shops and stalls which line it and catch a great view of the Grand Canal.

Guggenheim Museum: Visit the exceptional collection of 20th century modern pieces, put together by Peggy Guggenheim, a fan of the Surrealists. Works by Salvador Dali and Joan Miro. (Closed Tuesday).

Grand Canal: Ride along the Grand Canal and wonder at the sumptuous palaces in various styles that line it. Rest your feet and take advantage of the city’s water buses to see it as it was always meant to be seen - from the water!

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Europe uncovered ITALY cont’d: Doges’ Palace and Bridge of Sighs: Look at the opulence and grandeur of the former residence of the Dukes of Venice, rich in art works and military displays alike. Go inside if you’d like to walk across the “bridge of sighs”, which connected the palace to the Pozzi Prison where Casanova was once incarcerated.

Manners and customs It is considered courteous to shake hands warmly on both arriving and leaving. Italians eat their main meal in the afternoon, around 1.00pm. The opening course is generally ‘antipasto’ - a mixed plate of cold hors d’oeuvres. Italian cuisine is not only pasta; each of the 18 different regions of the country has its own distinct cuisine. The family is an important Italian institution and a marriage is not really considered a marriage until a child is born.

NB. When visiting places of a religious significance in Italy, it is necessary to dress appropriately. Your Tour Manager will advise you further.

Best buys Leather shoes, belts, gloves, silk scarves, ties, jewellery, Florentine tooled leather, Venetian glass and art books. ekit access number: 800 985 675 or 800 783 882 ekit hints on calling in Italy: • To get a dial tone or make calls you might need to deposit some coins, a local phonecard or swipe your credit card.

Coins that you use should be returned at the end of the call.

• You must include the ‘0’ of the area code when dialling Italian phone numbers, for example, dial 390 followed by the Italian access number.

• Some hotel phones have a switch to change the phone from MF to DC - this should switch from pulse phone to tone so you can use the ekit service. ekit economy number (Milan 02-3631-1926, Rome 06-91657473) provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

LIECHTENSTEIN Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People: Climate:

Time Difference:

Vaduz Swiss Franc 32,200 157 sq.km (61 sq. miles) Language: German. Ethnological Mix: Germans and Celts.

Summer, moderate, changeable, cooler on the mountains. Winter brings snow and icy conditions.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography The principality of Liechtenstein extends from the right bank of the Rhine to the Vararlberg Mountains. Almost three times the size of Bermuda, Liechtenstein is a fairy-tale land of medieval castles, lush Rhine meadows, ivy-clad chalets, vineyards and quaint villages.

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Europe uncovered LIECHTENSTEIN cont’d: Places of interest in Vaduz Castle: View the royal castle of the Liechtenstein ruling family, which is situated high above the town of Vaduz.

Manners and customs Tipping is 10-15% as well as service charges.

Best cuys Stamps - among the most decorative and valuable in the world, leather and wooden handicrafts. eKit access number: There is currently no access number for Leichtenstein. eKit constantly add new countries to the access number list, for an updated version, visit www.contiki.ekit.com.

MONACO Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate: Time Difference:

Monaco Euro 32,700 1.5 sq.km. (0.6 sq. mile) Language; French, Monegasque (a mixture of French and Italian). Ethnological Mix: Monegasques, French, Italian and Russian.

Mild in winter, warm in summer with little rain.

GMT + 1 hr standard time, +2 hr daylight saving.

Geography One of the smallest states in Europe, Monaco is divided into four parts - Monaco (the old city), Monte Carlo (the new city), La Condamine (the port) and Fontvielle (the industrial district where Monaco brews its own beer). Sleek modern architecture stands next to traditional French Mediterranean buildings.

The climate resembles that of Southern California, and orange and lemon trees and palms are in abundance.

Places of interest in Monaco Grand Casino: View this beautiful building by the designer of the original Paris Opera, Charles Garnier. An admission fee is required to enter the casino but the decoration inside is ornate and decadent.

Grand Prix Circuit: See the route the Formula 1 cars follow around Monaco and Monte Carlo in this famous annual motor race!

Boat Harbour: Look at how the “other half” live judging by the amazing array of boats and luxury yachts in the marina.

Perhaps catch a glimpse of the Royal yacht, “Deo Juvanté” (god-willing). eKit access number: 0800 913 588 eKit hints on calling in Monaco: • To get a dial tone or make calls you might need to enter some coins, a local phonecard or swipe your credit card.

14 Rue Comte FĂŠlix Gastaldi Monaco-Ville

(+377) 97 98 20 40 Fax: (+377) 97 98 20 45 e.mail: fredys57@hotmail.com www.monaco-restaurants.com

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Europe uncovered THE NETHERLANDS Political Capital: Official Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate: Time Difference:

DenHaag (The Hague) Amsterdam Euro 16,500,000 41,160 sq.km Language: Dutch, English, French, German, Belgian. Ethnological Mix: Dutch, Belgians, Frisians, Germanic stock with French mixture.

Fairly cool summers, moderate to cold winters - fairly wet throughout the year.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography There’s an old saying that ‘God made the world, but the Dutch made Holland,’ which you can almost believe when you realise that nearly half the country has been reclaimed from the sea. Miles upon miles of unbroken flower fields, farmland and villages can all be found in this flat country which has rolling hills and forests in the South along its border with Belgium. Amsterdam, the largest city, has more canals than Venice, featuring 95km (60 miles) of waterways, spanned by 1000 bridges.

Places of interest in Amsterdam Rijksmuseum: Explore an extensive collection of paintings

by Dutch masters in the Netherlands’ largest National Museum which opened in 1885. Features “The Night Watch”

by Rembrandt.

Albert Cuyp market: Shop for a variety of goods from delicious Dutch licorice and stroop waffels to clothes, shoes and all kinds of food, at this, the city’s best known market.

Closed Sundays.

Anne Frank Huis: Marvel at how two Jewish families hid from the Nazis for two years in WWII by occupying the second floor of what was then an office building and moving around only at night instead of the day-time to avoid discovery. Anne Frank kept a diary of her experience now a best-seller in dozens of languages. Closed January 1st, Yom Kippur, December 25th.

Van Gogh museum: Experience the work of a tormented genius in the best collection of Van Gogh’s work in the world today. Popular pieces include “The Potato Eaters” and “Vase With Sunflowers”. Closed January 1st.

Bloemenmarket (Flower Market): Wander along the Singél Canal at the last of the city’s floating markets and enjoy the displays of fragrant seasonal flowers. Closed Sunday.

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in co-operation with

Holland Cheese Promotion Get a pair of wooden shoes worth g10

FREE if you buy g25 worth of DUTCH CHEESE

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Europe uncovered THE NETHERLANDS cont’d: Manners and customs The Dutch people are polite and courteous and prefer formal greetings on first meetings. The Dutch are a nation of cyclists and in Amsterdam 540,000 people have bicycles - not surprising when you consider how flat the land is.

Amsterdam is famous for its restaurants - particularly those offering Indonesian cuisine. The rijstafel (rice table) is a large dish of rice surrounded by up to 20 smaller dishes of meat and chicken with a huge variety of sauces.

Best buys Diamonds, Delftware - blue and white pottery, Edam and Gouda cheese, white porcelain, clogs and tulip bulbs. eKit access number: 0800 020 3235 or 0800 023 3971 eKit hints on calling in The Netherlands: • To get a dial tone or make a call you may need to enter some coins, a local phonecard or swipe your credit card.

• ekit economy number (Amsterdam 0207 084 130) provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges. ekit economy number (Amsterdam 0207-084-130, Rotterdam 0107-994-093) provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

Amsterdam

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Europe uncovered SPAIN Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time Difference:

Madrid Euro 40,400,000 504,782 sq.km (195,000 sq. miles) Language: Spanish (Castillian), Catalan, Galician, Basque. Ethnological Mix: 90 per cent Spanish with minority of Basque.

The north is temperate, whilst the south is dry. The extreme South of Spain is the hottest in summer with temperatures rising to 38°c (100F°) in some places. Elevated areas (Madrid) are very cold in winter whilst southern Spain remains mild.

GMT + 1 hr.

Geography Spain, together with Portugal, occupies the Iberian Peninsula and offers every type of climate and geographical feature.

The Pyrenees physically separate Spain from France and the rest of Europe, while the Straits of Gibraltar separate Spain from Africa. Spain is more mountainous than any other European country, except Switzerland. It also has 4,964 km (3085 miles) of coastline and it is possible to ski in the Sierra Nevada, less than 80 km (50 miles) from the Costa del Sol.

Places of interest in Barcelona Picasso Museum: Visit the home of much of the work of Pablo Picasso to see his beginnings in very “traditional and acceptable” styles before adopting a modern style all of his own.

Be amazed at the evolution he underwent as a great painter.

Port Vell: Experience the newest shopping sensation in town!

Built on the water-front at the base of the Ramblas, Port Vell is a modern European Complex featuring a food hall, bars, fashion outlets and even a theme restaurant designed by Steven Spielberg!

Barcelona

INFORMATION INFORMA AT TION AND BOOKINGS BOOK KINGS

Phone: (34) 93 325 68 95

info@tablaodecarm info@tablaodecarmen.com men.com www.tablaodecarmen.com www .tablaodecarm men.com

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Europe uncovered SPAIN cont’d: Gothic Quarter: Explore this old section of the city which houses it’s amazing cathedral, with Roman ruins and narrow, winding streets; it was here that Christopher Columbus brought his findings from the “new world” to offer the King and Queen of Spain.

Columbus Column: Climb this column situated at the base of the main street of Barcelona featuring a statue of Christopher Columbus supposedly pointing towards the “new world”.

Take the lift and take a look for yourself.

Ramblas: Walk along the promenade of the main street of Barcelona and take in the sights and sounds of the city’s flower stalls, bird markets and also visit the fruit, vegetable and fish markets located just off the main street.

Places of interest in Madrid Visit: The Prado Museum. Designed in 1785 for Charles III. Contains 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th century art concentrating on El Greco, Velázquez and Goya. The Prado Museum represents Spain’s greatest contribution to world culture.

The museum benefited greatly from a law passed in 1836 which forced monastries, convents and churches to hand over their works of art to allow them to be enjoyed by the public.

See: The Reina Sofia Museum. It opened in 1990 and has a contemporary art collection. The focus is on Picasso, Dali and Miro and is home to Picasso’s “Guernica”.

Enjoy: Plaza Mayor. Soak up the atmosphere as you dip into some tapas and watch the world go by in this truly Spanish square.

Experience: The Royal Palace built by Phillip the 5th from 1734 on the site of the old Alcazar that was destroyed on Christmas Day of the same year. It is perhaps the most well preserved Royal Palace in Europe, with 2800 rooms that are decorated with Flemish tapestries, paintings by the royal artist Goya and numerous artifacts.

Manners and customs The custom of Siesta is gradually disappearing and department stores now stay open through the traditional 3-hour Siesta.

Many of the specialities of Spanish cuisine are based on seafood - eels, bream and squid. The area of Andalusia is noted for its cooking, especially featuring Gazpacho, a cold vegetable soup. Spain is also famous for bullfights and flamenco dancing.

Best buys Leatherware - shoes, sandals, Toledo wrought swords, peasant pottery and baskets, jewellery, Lladro figurines. eKit access number: 800 099 665 or from a hotel 900 991 722 eKit hints on calling in Spain: Make international calls from any phone box marked ‘telefono internacional’ or at Telefonica offices in cities and towns. ekit economy number (Madrid 91-787-25-91, Nationwide 90198-80-70) provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

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Botoneras 5, 28012 Madrid Phone: 34 91 366 30 28 The best Spanish cuisine since 1894.

Located in the Plaza Mayor of Madrid.

Enjoy our food and ambience in a place you’ll never forget.

www.losgalayos.net SWITZERLAND Capital: Currency: Population: Area: People:

Climate:

Time Difference:

Bern Francs and Centimes 7,000,000 41,288 sq.km. (15,940 sq.miles) Language: German, French, Italian, Romanish (English spoken by most).

Ethnological Mix: 58 per cent Swiss German, 17 per cent Swiss French, 8 per cent Swiss Italian, 17 per cent Austrian and Spanish minority.

Varies with altitude. In the South mild and Mediterranean. North of the Alps - hot summers, cold winters.

GMT + 1 hr

Geography Switzerland is known as the crest of Europe with mountain peaks as high as 4500 metres (15,000 ft) above sea level. With Italy to the South, France to the West, Germany to the North and Liechtenstein and Austria to the East, Switzerland is completely surrounded by land. It is divided naturally into three

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Europe uncovered Lucerne

SWITZERLAND cont’d: Geography cont’d: regions: the Jura Mountains in the North-West, the Alps in the South and the Central Swiss Plateau (Mittelland), with its fertile plains and rolling hills. Switzerland is scattered with several large lakes, the largest of which are Lake Geneva in the West and Lake Constance in the North-East. The mountains are criss-crossed with rivers and over 100 glaciers. Covered by the most intensive electric railway in Europe, over 5,472 km (3400 miles) long, Switzerland is the principle skiing centre of Europe.

Places of interest in Lucerne Watches: Check out the enormous variety of Swiss precisionmade watches available in this market town dating back to the middle ages when traders from Italy would bring their goods north via the mountain passes.

Lake Lucerne: Walk along the banks of this stunning “translucent blue” lake and take advantage of the photographic opportunities with flocks of swans of snowy white and Mounts’ Rigi and Pilatus in the background.

Chocolate: Shop for Swiss chocolate - the closest thing to perfection when it comes to sweet treats. You’ll be astounded at the variety of flavours and fillings available.

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Europe uncovered SWITZERLAND (cont.)

Manners and customs Etiquette and social customs are very formal. Swiss Germans tend to be extremely hygienic and hard-working. Smoking during a meal is not polite. Tipping 12.5-15%. Stores are open from 8.00am to 12.15pm and 1.30pm to 6.30pm on weekdays except for Monday mornings when they are closed. Stores close at 4.00pm on Saturdays and all day on Sunday.

Best buys Watches, Lindt chocolate, music boxes, Swiss army knives. eKit access number: 0800 834 578 or 0800 562 733 eKit hints on calling in Switzerland: • Some phones do not have a # key. You can still access the phone service without using the # key. Wait a few extra seconds for a voice prompt. • To get a dial tone or make calls you might need to enter some coins, a local phonecard or swipe your credit card. ekit economy number (Zurich 091-261-1208, Nationwide 0842-000-004) provides lower ekit rates but may incur local call charges.

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Your notes

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Your notes

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Stay in touch Name

Email or home address

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Contiki worldwide AUSTRALIA Travel House, Level 3, 35 Grafton Street, Bondi Junction, NSW 2022 Telephone: +61 (0) 2 9511 2200 contiki@contiki.com.au

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SOUTH AFRICA 6 Hood Avenue Rosebank 2196 Johannesburg Telephone: +27 11 280 8400 reservations.sa@contiki.com

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contiki.com If you choose to write to Contiki via the Internet, please provide your home address so we are able to reply to you in writing.

The information in this booklet was, to the best of our knowledge, correct at the time of going to print but we cannot be held responsible for any subsequent changes to the contents of it.

Edition 2009/2010 Š Contiki Europe All rights reserved.

Kris Gautier

Dinner & Show at 7 pm - Show at 9 pm & 11 pm Montmartre - 82, boulevard de Clichy - 75018 Paris www.moulin-rouge.com