Stopover Packages 2014/15 Brochure

2014/15

Stopover

EXPERIENCE

A holiday in 48 hours Top 6 stopover cities

DISCOVER

Hot tips and hidden secrets Incredible weekend itineraries

EXPLORE

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bangkok Hong Kong, Singapore and Guangzhou

enjoy

STOPOVER

Discover more at creativeholidays.com

Nothing beats the excitement of planning a getaway. Nothing beats an escape to instant summer. Nothing beats time off work, time with the family, time to reflect, or time to relax. Nothing beats a holiday. Nothing beats a Creative Holiday.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR JOURNEY Gone are the days when the long-haul flight to Europe meant a 24-hour slog, with no break to stretch your legs. With the many fantastic stopover suggestions Creative Holidays has on offer, you now have the chance to transform the extended trek into a unique and exciting journey.

Whether using the time to visit family or friends, explore a new and unfamiliar city, or relax and recharge before your final destination, a stopover is the ideal way to enhance your trip.

Let Creative Holidays help plan your perfect stopover. Simply choose your destination from our vast array, add a transfer for a seamless arrival and departure, and enjoy a tour or experience to make the most of your stopover time.

Q&A with...

Kristin

Creative Holidays Reservations Consultant I’M a

Reservations Consultant for Creative Holidays. I NEVER HOP ON A PLANE WITHOUT a laptop, outfits for all occasions and every electronic charger imaginable! I CAN’T WATCH OR READ anything set in Singapore

AND NOT BE INSPIRED TO TRAVEL. I RECENTLY TRAVELLED TO Hong Kong WITH CREATIVE HOLIDAYS. IF I COULD ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THREE THINGS THERE IT WOULD BE: go to Disneyland! It’s an awesome experience AND

Join us at... creativeholidays.com Check out The Lounge at Creative Holidays to see all the latest updates from our company, our partners and globe-trotting travellers, all in one place. You can also follow Creative Holidays social media to meet fellow travellers, ask us questions, enter our competitions and share your own travel stories. We’d love to hear from you!

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visit the markets, where handbags and electrical goods can be found at a cheap price AND enjoy panoramic views of the city looking down from Victoria Peak (you can reach it via Peak Tram, which is a visual experience in itself!). DON’T LEAVE WITHOUT EATING your body weight in dumplings and lemon chicken AND DRINKING green tea at the local restaurants. I STAYED AT the Prince Hotel and the Marco Polo Hotel AND THEY WERE both in the perfect location. THE BEST SOUVENIR I BOUGHT WAS a pop art painting of Bruce Lee FOR my nephew. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT STOPOVER HOLIDAYS, VISIT

creativeholidays.com.

Discover more about Singapore at creativeholidays.com

Singapore Singapore has become one of the most popular stopover destinations in the world – and it’s not hard to see why. If you’re after some serious retail therapy, the famed Orchard Road offers up shopping of a similar calibre to New York’s Fifth Avenue; or if you’re feeling peckish, the divine authentic Chilli Crab will satiate any appetite. The multicultural nature of this city means you can experience a variety of different traditions, customs and tastes all in the one region. And if you don’t even have time to leave the airport? No worries! Changi Airport has a host of indulgent facilities for the weary traveller, including landscaped gardens, music lounges, spa services and designated napping areas.

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Spend your first day in town on a Singapore City Tour, where you’ll be driven around the Civic District, passing by the historic Parliament House, Supreme Court and City Hall. You’ll stop at Merlion Park and enjoy impressive views of Marina Bay, then pay a visit to Thian Hock Keng temple, the National Orchid Garden and Little India. Finally, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore and beyond on the world’s largest observation wheel, The Singapore Flyer.

After satisfying your appetite for culture – and dumplings – get ready for some unadulterated fun! Experience cutting-edge rides, shows and attractions based on your favourite blockbuster films at Universal Studios Singapore™. Don’t miss family favourites like TRANSFORMERS The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle, Shrek 4-D Adventure, Revenge of the Mummy™ and Madagascar: A Crate Adventure.

“Boleh lihat menu?” means “May I look at the menu?”, which you’ll be asking in the authentic Singaporean restaurants.

Local Tips: • It’s a good idea to keep an umbrella on hand. Since Singapore’s weather can be quite tropical, short, sharp downpours can happen frequently.

• Sample a durian. Durian is the “king of fruits” in Southeast Asia, and is known for its distinct look, colour, taste and strong odour.

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What to Pack: A spare, foldable, secure bag for all of your extra shopping.

Discover a wide range of hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Guangzhou and many more stopover destinations. With hundreds to choose from, there’s a perfect stay to suit every travel style.

Book online, call us, or see your local travel agent. creativeholidays.com

*All prices based on per person rates. Terms and conditions apply (see online for details).

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If you have 48 hours

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Lingo to know:

• Yum Cha Restaurant, hidden away in Chinatown (20 Trengganu Street) is world famous for its cheap, authentic and absolutely delicious menu, from prawn dumplings to crispy red bean paste.

If you have 24 hours If you only have 24 hours in this fine city, book in for a City Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Tour. You’ll explore Singapore on five fabulous routes, with 360-degree views from the top deck of a double-decker bus. This tour will enable you to pack a week’s worth of sightseeing into one day! (Or even less, if you want to hop off and meander on your own).

THINGS TO KNOW:

Discover more about Dubai at creativeholidays.com

Dubai Get ready for a first-rate stay, complete with man-made islands and beaches, a mall with over 1200 shops, underwater hotels and superior restaurants... and that’s just the start of your stopover in Dubai. Adventure-seekers have limitless options, from wreck diving to camel racing and the world-famous Aquaventure Water Park. For foodies, hatted restaurants are a must, but there are also local street vendors and souks that serve up traditional, cheap and delicious meals. Shopping is a given, whether it be spices at the Spice Souk, precious metals at the Gold Souk or incredible designer goods from the massive Dubai Mall. In fact, with all those shopping bags, Dubai makes for the ultimate stopover on the journey home.

If you have 24 hours An ideal expedition for a brief stay, the City of Merchants is a fascinating tour across Dubai city – from Burj Al Arab, Dubai’s landmark hotel, to Majlis Al Ghorfat, a magnificent structure built in 1955 and recently restored. Driving past modern palaces, you’ll stop at the Jumeirah Mosque, admire old-windtowered houses in Dubai’s Al Fahidi Cultural district, and visit the 200-year old Al Fahidi Fort. Continue the journey on a traditional abra across the Creek to your final destination – the bustling gold and spice souks.

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THINGS TO KNOW: Lingo to know: “Kam howa thamanoh?” means “How much is this?” which may be handy when you’re hitting the shops.

Local Tips:

Begin your two-day adventure in Dubai with a Dubai Al Jadeedah guided tour. Enjoy a relaxed drive through The Palm Jumeirah Island, visit The Dubai Mall and Dubai Aquarium, stop for a photo opportunity outside Atlantis, The Palm, shop up a storm at the famed souks and indulge in high tea at the Burj Al Arab.

After soaking up all that culture and history, why not let your hair down at Ski Dubai? The Middle East’s first indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai proves that anything is possible. Despite the scorching heat outside, this mountain-themed attraction offers a range of activities for snow lovers, including skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing.

“A great way to orient yourself before exploring the city is with an ‘At the Top’ observation deck experience at Burj Khalifa.

It’s the tallest building in the world!”

Simone The Travel Corporation, Product Database 2IC

If you have 48 hours From

Staff tip

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• Dubai hosts some major world sporting events such as the Dubai Tennis Championships, Desert Classic and Rugby Sevens. If you want to catch one of these, it’s essential to book well in advance.

• The Dubai Mall, also known as the home of the Dubai Shopping Festival (held throughout January), is the world’s largest shopping mall based on total area.

• Visit the Gold Souk for cheap gold, but be prepared to haggle. The stalls also offer platinum, diamonds and silver, and are heavily regulated by the government so you can be sure your buy is genuine.

What to Pack: Sunscreen to protect yourself from the Middle Eastern heat.

Discover more about Abu Dhabi at creativeholidays.com

Abu Dhabi With bustling markets, renowned motorsports and a seaside that can’t be matched, Abu Dhabi is fast becoming one of the hottest destinations in the world. As soon as you step out of the airport on your whirlwind stopover, you’ll be taken with the city’s gleaming infrastructure, searing climate and distinct Arab flavour. Culture buffs will appreciate sneaking in some time at the city’s museums and galleries, while adventure-seekers can take advantage of their brief stay by revelling in an array of action-soaked activities on offer. Before jetting off, make sure you sample some of this city’s fine fare. Restaurants will often serve both international cuisine and a mixture of Arabic delicacies, catering to a variety of different palettes.

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Leave busy city life behind on your first fun-filled day, and experience traditional Arabia on a Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari. Be transported by four-wheel drive on a thrilling adventure over rolling desert dunes, and enjoy a traditional evening relaxing in Bedouin-style tents, with a short camel ride, mouth-watering Arabic feast and aromatic shisha.

Day two, and what better time to hit the world’s first Ferrari theme park, Ferrari World?! Step past the main gates into an intense, multi-sensory experience celebrating all things Ferrari – from the iconic sleek red roof, to more than 20 state-of-the-art attractions, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster, reaching speeds of up to 240 kilometres per hour!

Local Tips: • Before you depart the airport, stop and admire your surroundings. Abu Dhabi International Airport comprises of well-advanced facilities like boutiques, shops and even a sand golf course. The airport’s architecture is a special attraction for tourists in itself, and has become an icon to promote the city’s tourism industry.

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What to Pack: Lightweight clothing for a desert safari and your favourite Camilla kaftan.

*All prices based on per person rates. Terms and conditions apply (see online for details).

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“Haal indaak kawah arabeeya?” means “Do you have Arabic coffee?”

• Cross the river to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Apart from being a spectacular place of worship, it also houses the world’s largest hand-made carpet.

If you have 48 hours From

Lingo to know:

• Hit the beach in the early morning or late evening when it’s not too hot. In summer, it will already be more than 30 degrees Celsius and rising by 11am.

If you have 24 hours Want to cram in as much sightseeing as possible? Book yourself on a City Spectacular Tour and explore everything this evolving metropolis has to offer. You’ll marvel at the grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, drive along the incredible Corniche, visit the markets of Port Zayed, explore the traditional Heritage Village, and enjoy superb skyline views at Breakwater.

THINGS TO KNOW:

Discover more about Bangkok at creativeholidays.com

Bangkok Every now and then, you come across a city that changes you – a place that leaves a lasting impression with its sights, smells, tastes and atmosphere.

Bangkok is just that sort of place. Maybe it’s the juxtaposition of traditional Buddhist culture with the spirited, fast pace of the city. Or perhaps it’s the glamorous rooftop bars that look out over the gritty streets. Whatever the reason, Bangkok is one destination you should certainly include on your stopover itinerary, not only for its value for money, but also its value for sightseeing. Put on your haggling hat and bag yourself a designer bargain.

You can easily fill a suitcase here in less than 24 hours.

If you have 24 hours If you only have limited time in this effervescent city, the Street Food Discovery tour is a must. You’ll get the chance to sample the district’s finest traditional fare – a signature element of Thai culture – and witness how life unfolds on a day-to-day basis, bringing a greater understanding and context to the food experience.

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THINGS TO KNOW: Lingo to know: “Cocktail-tee kuen-chue-kong-tee-nee-chue-a-rai?” means “What’s the signature cocktail?” (a good thing to know on a night out in town!).

If you’re fortunate enough to have two days in Bangkok, don’t miss out on the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Cultural Show. Departing at 7am, this is only for those with enough time – and energy – to devote to a full day tour. Starting at the famous floating market, Damnoen Saduak, you’ll move on to Nakhon Pathom and admire the world’s highest chedi, enjoy a buffet lunch, and be entertained by a unique Thai cultural show.

For those wanting a hit of Thai history, immerse yourself in the wonderment of the Royal Grand Palace Tour. This detailed tour allows you to dig deeper into the mysteries of the Palace, including those of the revered Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.

“The airport is 30 kilometres east of Bangkok City, which is accessible by taxi or shuttle bus. It’s wise to ask for a supply of small notes when exchanging your currency before leaving the airport as taxi drivers may have limited small change.”

Milli The Travel Corporation, Senior Public Relations Executive

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Local Tips: • Buy a good map, as Bangkok city can be quite confusing.

With so many shifting street names, the winding river, the expressways and the lack of clearly distinguishable neighbourhoods, it’s easy to become a little disoriented.

• For stopover cocktails at one of the most incredible rooftop bars in Bangkok, head to Red Sky at Centara Grand. Suspended in the sky on the 55th floor, it offers French bistro-style cuisine, foam-capped martinis and 360-degree panoramic views.

• Visit Bangkok’s floating markets for breakfast and feast on everything from coconut pancakes served hot on banana leaves, to chicken satay skewers and crispy spring rolls. Get there around 8am to avoid the crowds.

What to Pack: An eye for a bargain.

Discover more about Hong Kong at creativeholidays.com

Hong Kong A leading financial epicentre, a diverse cultural hub and home of the classic Bruce Lee action films; Hong Kong is an enigmatic city with a thriving population, leading the way in shopping, nightlife, architecture and flavoursome cuisine. With a vibrant cultural fabric, the city’s long and unique history is almost as colourful as its sprawling city skyline, lively street life and gorgeous harbour. Renowned as the stopover location of choice for many travellers, Hong Kong is perfect for a bustling sojourn, and one of the most all-embracing tourist meccas on the planet, offering countless attractions for the ‘passing through’ traveller.

If you have 24 hours If you’re looking for the perfect way to discover Hong Kong’s delights, look no further than the Hong Kong Island Tour. You’ll head up Victoria Peak

by Peak Tram, visit Aberdeen (with an optional sampan ride), drive past the historic Repulse Bay, peruse Stanley Market for super bargains and enjoy a visit to a prestigious jewellery workshop.

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“Nei hao ma?” means “Hello, how are you?”

Local Tips: • Ask your hotel concierge to write down your destination address in both Chinese and English as there may be taxi drivers that can only communicate in their native tongue.

• On the 118th floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC), Ozone Bar is the highest watering hole in the world. Enjoy a wide range of signature cocktails (including incredible lychee martinis), Asian tapas and spectacular city views.

• Much like Times Square in New York, the abundance of neon signs and building advertisements makes Hong Kong come alive, especially at night. Stop and enjoy the spectacle!

Synthetic walking shoes that dry out quickly. They’ll be useful for exploring Hong’s Kong’s islands.

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There’s no way you can visit Hong Kong – even for a mere 48 hours – and not partake in some delicious fare-sampling. Do yourself a favour and taste your way through the business areas of Central and Sheung Wan on the Central & Sheung Wan Foodie Tour. On this magnificent exploration of flavours, you’ll meander off the beaten path to unearth hidden gems and savour some of Hong Kong’s favourite dishes.

After you’ve filled your belly to contentment, spend your second day exploring Macau, the ‘Vegas of the East’, on a Macau Day Tour. You’ll visit the Ruins of Sao Paulo, Statue of Kum Yam – the Goddess of Mercy, A-Ma Temple and Macau Tower, plus enjoy a short visit to one of the famous casinos. This tour includes lunch and fast-ferry transfers between Hong Kong and Macau.

Lingo to know:

What to Pack:

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If you have 48 hours

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THINGS TO KNOW:

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Discover a wide range of hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Guangzhou and many more stopover destinations. With hundreds to choose from, there’s a perfect stay to suit every travel style.

Book online, call us, or see your local travel agent. creativeholidays.com

Discover more about Guangzhou at creativeholidays.com Now in line with its busy counterparts, Beijing and Shanghai, the bustling port city of Guangzhou is quickly becoming a favourable trading center and stopover destination for many travellers. China’s third largest city, Guangzhou boasts an amazing Cantonese food scene, as well as a prime spot on the majestic river. During your fleeting visit, admire the neon signs on bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, have your photo taken in front of the famous Five Ram Statue or embark on a scenic river cruise; you’ll soon see why this city is becoming one of China’s most popular.

Guangzhou

THINGS TO KNOW: Lingo to know: “Hóyíh gaaisiuh go sihk ngaan ge deihfòng ma?” means “Can you suggest a place for lunch?”

Staff tip

Local Tips: • Peruse the Xīguān Antique Street shops off Daihe Lu for everything from trinkets to antiques and furniture.

“By breaking up our recent flight to Europe with a stopover in Guangzhou, we were able to recharge the batteries, experience a new culture, and enjoy two adventures in one! It really added to the quality of our entire trip.”

Mauricio Creative Holidays, Graphic Designer

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facebook.com/ creativeholidays 35 Grafton Street, Bondi Junction, NSW 2022 P.O. BOX 659, Bondi Junction, NSW 1355 License No. 2TA00 2632 ABN 23 003 286 459 Creative Holidays has been serving Australian travellers since 1979 and is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation. It is renowned and trusted for outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.

www.thetravelcorporation.com

• For a wide variety of Western-style restaurants and easy access to the transport system, hit up Huan Shi East Road – many foreigners favour the region.

• Go for a relaxing stroll through Guangzhou’s People’s Park, a 48,000-square-metre Park, where you may come across locals playing ping pong, dancing or doing Tai Chi.

What to Pack: Non-alcohol hand santiser. Chinese airport security will occasionally confiscate alcohol-based sanitisers, though it is handy to pack to help ward off sickness.

See your favourite travel agent, call us on 1300 747 400 or visit us online at creativeholidays.com

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