The travel depot peregrine asia by Allan Meredith

2014-15 Armenia Azerbaijan Borneo Burma (Myanmar) Cambodia China Georgia India Indonesia Iran Japan Kyrgyzstan Laos Malaysia Mongolia Nepal North Korea Papua New Guinea Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Tajikistan Thailand Tibet Uzbekistan Vietnam

SMALL GROUP

TOURS & TREKS

Asia with India

Anywhere is possible Steve Wroe, General Manager, Peregrine Like all Peregrine travellers, I love having a trip to look forward to. It’s the sense of anticipation that steadily builds, the books I read about the place and the camera gear that I suddenly have an excuse to purchase. I’m very lucky to have a job that allows me to share my love of travel with you. It’s been more than 36 years since our first small group set out to discover Nepal. It’s this heritage and our reputation that keeps our travellers coming back. We appeal to the well-travelled, discerning traveller. The one who chooses value over price, and wants to immerse themselves in a place instead of just ticking landmarks off a bucket list. The type of person who would rather stay in a jungle bungalow than a forgettable hotel. We’re for travellers who want inclusions along the way instead of fiddling around for loose change. Almost 20 years ago, Peregrine led an industry revolution by solely employing locally born leaders. This innovative approach gives our travellers a deeper insight into the countries they visit. Doorways are opened and a true understanding of the place is fostered. I am proud of our product, proud of the people I work with and proud of Peregrine’s unrivalled heritage.

Contents & Prices 8 8 9 9 9 PAGE 12 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 27 27 27 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 40 41 42 44 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 56 57 57 58 60 61 62 63 63 64 65 66 68 69 69 70 70 71 72 73 74 76 77 78 79 79 79

Unlock the secrets of Asia Inspired accommodation & private transport The Peregrine promise Passionate local leaders Find out more DAYS

TRIP CODE

TRIP NAME

BURMA Burma Unveiled PABU 12 Burma - the Golden Land PABG 17 VIETNAM Vintage Vietnam NEW PAVV 15 Heritage Cambodia & Vietnam PAHC 13 Jewels of Indochina NEW PAJI 20 Glimpse of Vietnam PAGV 11 Essence of Vietnam PACL 8 Vietnam Experience PAVE 16 Northern Vietnam Discoverer NEW PAND 6 Beyond the Banh Mi NEW PAFV 12 Cycle Vietnam PACV 17 Halong Bay Extension PAHB 3 Mekong Extension - Twin PAMD 3 Mekong Extension - Single PAMD 3 Angkor Extension - Twin PAAE 4 Angkor Extension - Single PAAE 4 THAILAND, LAOS & CAMBODIA Thailand Unearthed NEW PAAT 10 Journey down the Laos Mekong PAJD 9 Cambodia Discovery PACC 6 Laos & Cambodia Explorer PALC 14 Indochina Adventure PAIA 21 Antiquities of Asia NEW PAAA 12 Asia in Depth PAAD 30 Malaysian Encounter NEW PAME 9 BORNEO, INDONESIA & PNG Untamed Borneo NEW PASW 9 Sailing the East Indies NEW PASE 14 The Kokoda Track PAKT 11 The Kokoda Track Reverse PAKTR CHINA & TIBET Yangtze & Beyond PCYB 14 China Highlights PCHC 8 Icons of China NEW PCIC 14 Walking the Great Wall PCGW 8 China Panorama PCCP 26 Yunnan Explorer PCYE 10 China’s Silk Road PCSR 16 Tibet - Roof of the World PCTR 13 JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA Japan Revealed PCJR 15 Japan Sushi to Sake PCJF 12 South Korea Explored PCSK 12 CENTRAL ASIA Jewels of Uzbekistan PCJU 13 Kyrgyzstan - Lakes of the Sky PCKL 14 Grand Silk Explorer PCGS 38 Mongolian Yak Safari PCYS 15 Mongolian Yak Safari with Naadam PCYSN 15 Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia NEW PCAG 17 Ancient Persia in Depth PGAP 16 INDIA & SRI LANKA Rajasthan Revealed - Tour Leader’s Special PIRR 15 Memories of the Maharaja PIMM 15 The Spirit of India PISI 12 Jewels of India NEW PIDJ 7 Essence of South India PIES 15 Colours of India PICC 26 Secrets of Sri Lanka PISE 12 Treasures of Sri Lanka PISL 15 NEPAL & BHUTAN Essence of India & Nepal PIRN 20 Colours of Nepal PHCN 11 Himalayan Kingdoms PHHK 13 Dragon Kingdom PHDK 9 Chitwan Safari Extension - Twin PHCS 3 Chitwan Safari Extension - Single PHCS 3

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10 10 10 11

About small groups Travelling on your own? Family groups Private groups

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DAYS

TRIP CODE

TRIP NAME

PEREGRINE EXPEDITIONS Mt Hagen Festival Expedition NEW 7 PAMH North Korea Expedition - Apex of Adventure 14 PCNK Mongolian Eagle Festival 14 PCEF Tajikistan Pamir Adventure - Expedition 21 PCPT FAMILY ADVENTURES The great Indochina Quest 15 PTFI Ready, Set, Pho 13 PTFV Burma: Land of the Buddha 11 PTFB Land of the Orangutan 11 PTFO Panda-monium 13 PTFC OTHER INFORMATION What’s included, flights & insurance Responsible tourism Booking conditions Introducing Peregrine Reserve

Prices shown are ‘from’ prices, only a selection of departures will be available at this advertised price as we adjust our prices according to seasons, festivals and events, availability and demand. Please check our website for more details. Many Peregrine tours have scheduled departures that are guaranteed to run. Trips with guaranteed dates are highlighted on the website with a ‘guaranteed departure’ symbol. ‘G’ icons on the corresponding dates and prices pages on the website denote the specific guaranteed departures for each trip. You can arrange your flights and other travel arrangements at the time of booking these guaranteed dates, safe in the knowledge the trip will run as scheduled. * Subject to clause 4 in the standard terms and conditions

Book with confidence We’ll guarantee the price of your tour! By choosing to travel with Peregrine, you are choosing to travel with confidence. Once you have paid your deposit for any Peregrine tour, we guarantee that your tour price will not change. That’s the Peregrine Price Guarantee! When it comes to travel, there are no certainties. Trip prices can change for all sorts of reasons, including inflation, currency fluctuations and supplier costs (e.g. fuel). Many other tour operators will ask you to cover these additional costs. But as a Peregrine customer, we don’t think you should be responsible for them. Instead, we will bear the cost of any price increases that may occur after you book. As long as your itinerary doesn’t change, neither will the price. The price you pay on deposit is the price you’ll pay full stop.

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The fine print The Price Guarantee applies to the base price of any Peregrine tour departing before 31 December 2014. It does not include associated costs such as internal flights, permits or additional accommodation. The Price Guarantee applies only once you have paid your deposit. Advertised prices on all tours are still subject to change at any time. The Price Guarantee does not include Peregrine Private Groups, Peregrine Polar voyages. The Price Guarantee requires that there have been no changes to your original tour (date or itinerary). www.peregrineadventures.com/price-guarantee

Asia with Peregrine MONGOLIA UZBEKISTAN

GEORGIA ARMENIA AZERBAIJAN

KYRGYZSTAN

TAJIKISTAN

NORTH KOREA

CHINA

SOUTH KOREA

JAPAN

IRAN TIBET (CHINA) NEPAL

BHUTAN

INDIA

BURMA (MYANMAR) VIETNAM LAOS THAILAND CAMBODIA

SRI LANKA

MALAYSIA SINGAPORE

BORNEO

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Burma Unveiled “The tour far exceeded our expectations. Our tour leader was Nyi Nyi Tun. He is truly a valuable Peregrine asset. He is extremely professional. He is witty and very knowledgeable. I think I learned more on this tour about the country we were visiting through Nyi Nyi’s wonderful personality than any other of the many countries we have visited. Nyi Nyi truly endeared us to the country of Myanmar.” Peregrine traveller, 2012

Loyalty discount We know you love to travel. So book your second Peregrine trip and we’ll give you a 5% discount. And if you really love to travel, then you’ll receive your 10th trip for free (to the value of $2500). Get 10% off trips when you’ve taken 11 or more. And first time travellers get 5% off when you book three or more trips in the one transaction.

What to know Some of our trips are fairly active with multiple days of walking, trekking or cycling. Look for the activity icons and read the ‘What to know’ section on each itinerary to find out more. 06 // peregrineadventures.com

Trekking Cycling Walking

Accommodation

HAVELI ACCOMMODATION, INDIA

MANUKAN ISLAND RESORT, BORNEO

SUKHOTHAI HERITAGE RESORT, SUKHOTHAI

Banteay Srei, or ‘The Citadel of Women’, Cambodia.

peregrineadventures.com // 03

The Peregrine promise We don’t believe in travelling as a means to tick 10 items off a bucket list in 10 days. Aside from being a superficial way to travel, it’s exhausting! At Peregrine, we take time to get under the skin of a destination. Of course, we all want to see Angkor Wat in Cambodia; but afterwards we’ll visit Preah Khan, a temple still nestled in the jungle and little visited by tourists. Seeing the famous sites is a must, but it’s often the memory of wandering through a small village or sharing dinner with a local family that will leave a lasting impact.

Inspired accommodation & private transport Although our standard of accommodation ranges from 3 to 5 star, we believe the magic of a place lies in its charm and not in its star rating. We know that a bad hotel can spoil a trip, which is why you’ll stay in a clean, charming and locally

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owned jungle bungalow, ryokan, shukubo or Vietnamese junk and not an utterly forgettable hotel chain. It’s just another benefit of small group travel.

Unlock the secrets of Asia... Peregrine is a company built by travellers for travellers. In January 1978, the very first Peregrine small group trek set off around the Annapurna Sanctuary in Nepal. 36 years later our commitment to taking travellers into the heart of a destination is exactly the same. With 36 years experience, why not become a part of the Peregrine story? Anywhere is possible.

Experience l

36 years of operation, with world-class staff and an excellent reputation

Value l

All transport, arrival transfers, local leader, specialist guides where needed, inspired accommodation and many meals included

Well-paced and highly inclusive itineraries, with most entrance fees included

Backed up by Peregrine’s Price Guarantee – the price you pay on deposit is the price you’ll pay full stop (visit peregrineadventures.com/ price-guarantee for more)

Service l

English-speaking local leaders who can unlock doors closed to coach tourist and independent travellers

Speak to our team of highly experienced consultants or your local travel agent

Average group size of 10 travellers means a deeper connection with the destination and more time with your local leader

We can organise flights, visas, pre and post tour accommodation, extensions, insurance and more

24-hour local emergency support in the places you go

Passionate local leaders Almost 20 years ago, Peregrine became the first travel company of its kind to exclusively employ local leaders. Instead of importing ‘tour managers’, we led the way by finding and training educated, passionate and naturally curious people who were born and raised in the places you go. It’s more like travelling with a local friend. They’ll buy you fresh fruit to sample in the markets, and take you home to try a steaming hot bowl of their mum’s pho.

Our local leaders can unlock a side to their country that coach tourists and independent travellers could never hope to see.

Find out more It’s pretty ambitious to cover the whole of Asia, China & India in one brochure. The following pages give you an overview of our trips and style of travel, but for more information head to the website www.peregrineadventures.com

facebook.com/peregrineadventures youtube.com/peregrineadventures twitter @peregrinespirit instagram.com/peregrineadventures

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About small groups For some companies, the term ‘small group’ means sharing a bus with 45 other people. Not us. Peregrine group sizes are capped at 16 people. This means you’ll visit places the big groups can’t, stay in more interesting accommodation (try getting a coach-load of people into a Japanese shukubo) and take all sorts of transport (tuk tuk, anyone?). It also helps us reduce the physical, environmental and cultural impact on the places we visit. Turn to page 93 and learn more about our commitment to responsible travel.

Travelling on your own? Every year we take thousands of single travellers around the world. All our trips are twin-share (ladies share with ladies, chaps with chaps), so there’s no single supplement to pay. Of course, if you’d prefer to have your own room (at a little extra cost) we can arrange this on most trips. Just ask our friendly sales team when you book.

Family tours Travelling with your kids can open up a whole new world of food, culture, history and experiences. But the sheer logistics of getting your family from point A to point B can be a challenge at the best of times, let alone when you’re walking the Great Wall of China! So in each of our key regions we’ve designed a range of tours just for families. Travel times are kept to a minimum (no long days), accommodation is child-friendly and there’s plenty of free time. There’s a range of activities to keep everyone entertained, while also fostering an appreciation of the cultures and communities you visit. We reckon we’ve got the balance just right. Head to peregrineadventures.com/families or page 86 and see if you agree.

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School, corporate and private groups School groups, sports teams, yoga classes, birdwatchers, photographers, foodies… you name a group and chances are we’ve taken them on a private tour.

to capture it in the best possible light. Or if you want to arrange a team-building exercise in Nepal’s Annapurna region, we’ll pull it together for you. The only limit is your imagination.

Our experts love designing itineraries to suit the needs of a private group. Simply choose the dates and your travel companions and we’ll do the rest.

We’re the experts in arranging school trips. So when it comes to connecting kids with new cultures and communities, we’re in our element. Peregrine educational journeys not only help foster a deeper understanding of the world, but help boost self-esteem, teamwork and responsibility. They’re also heaps of fun!

All you need is a minimum of three people and a bite from the travel bug! We can even tailor one of our existing itineraries to add more destinations or skip certain activities based on your group’s needs. For example, if landscape photography is your thing, we’ll take you to each location with enough time

For more about group travel, visit peregrineadventures.com/groups or email groups@peregrineadventures.com

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Burma (Myanmar) Our local leaders will show

you the Burma they

know and love

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Burma – Asia’s beautiful secret To travel in Burma is to stumble upon a wonderful, pagoda-filled secret garden. There’s a disarming, unguarded quality to this place and many of our travellers make a real connection with the people who live here.

Maymyo. The silver sands of Ngwesaung Beach. The indigenous leg-rowers on Inle Lake. For the adventurous and open-minded traveller, this is a rare opportunity to explore a country at a turning point in its long and complex history.

Peregrine has been taking travellers to Burma since 1996, bringing to life itineraries created by product manager, San Khoo, who still works in our Melbourne office today. “Back then Burma was seen as a really out-there destination. It blew people away then – and still has the same effect on visitors today.” Our local leaders will show you the Burma they know and love. Rangoon’s golden Shwedagon Pagoda that so captivated Rudyard Kipling. The bustling U Bien teak bridge at sunset. The curious Britishness of the gardens and architecture at the old colonial hill station of Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Seasonal weather patterns THAILAND Bangkok Phuket Chiang Mai

BURMA (MYANMAR) Rangoon Mandalay VIETNAM Hanoi Hoi An Ho Chi Minh City

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

INDIA JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Delhi (North India) Kochi (South India) Varanasi Global Sales Manager SRI LANKA JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC LAOS Colombo Luang Prabeng Galle Vientiane NEPAL JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Kathmandu INDONESIA Pokhara Yogyakarta Lukla Ubud TIBET JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Lhasa BORNEO BHUTAN Kota Kinabalu Paro Kuching CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Siem Reap

Glenyce Johnson

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

A selection of inspired accommodation: Rangoon (Yangon) – Summit Parkview Hotel

“We travelled around Inle Lake in a dugout canoe-style boat. It’s a really comfortable boat with sun deck chairs to check out the view from. Cruising around the lake is a great way (and the only way!) to move among the communities living on the water. PNG We also got to stop off at some markets and restaurants on our way.”

Mandalay – Mandalay City Hotel Inle Lake – Inle Resort Hotel Kyaiktiyo – Mountain Top Hotel Ngwesaung Beach – Sunny Paradise Resort

peregrineadventures.com // 13

DAYS

12 Burma Unveiled Kipling wrote that Burma is, ‘quite unlike any land you know about… a golden winking wonder that blazed in the sun’. More than a century after he travelled here, Burma remains a world apart. Towering pagodas, old empire opulence and a welcoming people await. ITINERARY Day 1 Rangoon (Yangon) Arrive in Rangoon and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Mandalay See Kipling’s ‘winking wonder’, the golden Shwedagon Pagoda and Karaweik Hall before boarding your flight to Mandalay. Day 3 Mandalay Travel by boat up the Irrawaddy River to the rural village of Mingun. Visit the old capital, Amarapura, and watch the sunset over U Bein Bridge, which is constructed from 1.2 kilometres of handbuilt teak. Day 4 Mandalay Morning trip to the hill station of Maymyo (Pyin U Lwin), the summer capital of colonial British Burma. Afternoon excursions around Mandalay’s pagodas and historic Mandalay Hill. Days 5-6 Pagan (Bagan) Cruise down the Irrawaddy River to Pagan, and see the ruins of the ancient temple-city. A thousand years ago this was the centre of Burmese power; now it’s a spectacular archaeological site with more than 4000 Buddhist temples.

TRIP DETAILS Day 7 Pagan A short drive to Burma’s famous volcano, Mount Popa, before visiting a local village. Free afternoon to explore or shop for souvenirs.

Day 10 Inle Lake Trek to ethnic minority villages on the Shan Plateau, home of Burma’s renowned sapphires and rubies. Return to your resort for a traditional Shan feast.

Day 8 Inle Lake Fly to Heho this morning then drive to Inle Lake, a landscape of floating villages, tumbling mountains and the famous Intha leg-rowers.

Day 11 Rangoon This morning, a short drive to Heho then flight to Rangoon. Afternoon is free to shop or visit Rangoon’s many ancient sites.

Day 9 Inle Lake The Intha legrowers navigate their long, narrow craft by standing on the stern with one leg and wrapping the other around the oar. Study their technique as you cruise the lake.

Day 12 Rangoon Bid farewell to your new friends as the trip ends in Rangoon after breakfast.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 11 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 11 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PABU. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pabu

TRIP DATES Departs every Sun & Wed from Oct – Mar, Sun only from Apr – Sep.

BURMA (MYANMAR) Mandalay

Heho Inle Lake

Pagan

Rangoon

Burma Unveiled

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BURMA (MYANMAR)

DAYS

17 Burma – the Golden Land “Burmese food is fantastic, but when you’re here you don’t see a lot of Burmese restaurants. It’s mostly Chinese and Indian restaurants, and the Burmese save their traditional cooking for home. But Bogyoke Market in Rangoon has fantastic local cuisine. Having a feed with the local people is a real highlight and I can’t go past the kyawswe noodles in coconut broth.” San Khoo, Peregrine Product Manager. ITINERARY Day 1 Rangoon (Yangon) Arrive in Rangoon to a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Mandalay Morning city tour with a visit to Kipling’s fascination, the golden Shwedagon Pagoda. Fly to Mandalay. Day 3 Mandalay Cruise on the Irrawaddy River to the rural village of Mingun (home to the second largest ringing bell in the world). Watch the sunset over U Bein Bridge, 1.2 kilometres of handbuilt teak stretching across Taungthaman Lake. Day 4 Mandalay Visit Maymyo (Pyin U Lwin), built as a retreat for the British to escape soaring summer temperatures. Then it’s time to explore the pagodas and take in the view from Mandalay Hill. Days 5-6 Pagan (Bagan) Boat cruise on Irrawaddy River to Pagan and a visit to the Nyaung U Market. Tour the ruins at Pagan, a spectacular archaeological site with more than 4000 Buddhist temples.

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 16 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 16 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PABG. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Day 7 Pagan Take the short drive to Burma’s famous volcano, Mount Popa, topped by the Popa Taungkalat Monastery. Stop by a local village then enjoy some free time to explore. Day 8 Inle Lake An early flight to Heho before driving to Inle Lake, surrounded by the stilt-house villages and floating gardens of the Intha tribe. Day 9 Inle Lake Cruise around the lake, watching first-hand how the famous Intha leg-rowers manouvre their vessels in this age-old tradition. Day 10 Inle Lake Shan Plateau is considered the major source of Burma’s sapphires, rubies and gems. Trek to ethnic minority villages here before sitting down to a traditional Shan feast this evening. Day 11 Kyaiktiyo. Fly to Rangoon. Drive to Kimpun base camp, truck to Rathedaung and short trek to the Golden Rock. Covered in gold leaves, this boulder has teetered on the edge of a hill for centuries.

Days 12-13 Ngwesaung Beach Drive to Pegu (Bago) and pay respects to the 10th century Reclining Buddha. Drive to Rangoon and then the silver sands of Ngwesaung Beach. Days 14-15 Ngwesaung Beach Free time at this beach resort, the perfect remedy for ‘pagoda fatigue’. Optional boat trip, snorkelling or visit to local fishing villages. Day 16 Rangoon Visit to Bassein (Pathein) cottage industries. Pay your respects at Htawk Kyant War Cemetery before returning to Rangoon. Day 17 Rangoon Trip ends in Rangoon this morning.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pabg

TRIP DATES Departs every Sun year round & every Wed & Sun from Oct - Mar.

BURMA (MYANMAR) Mandalay

Pagan

Ngwesaung Beach Bassein

Heho Inle Lake

Pegu Kyaiktiyo Rangoon

Burma – the Golden Land

peregrineadventures.com // 15

Vietnam It is impossible to travel through

Vietnam without feeling

your spirit lifted

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More than just good mornings Vietnamese people rush at every aspect of living with unabashed enthusiasm. So they won’t just show you their country, they’ll want you to know and feel and love their country too. Visiting Vietnam with Peregrine isn’t about sitting behind a bus window and ticking off sightseeing boxes. It’s about scouring riverfront food markets for a tasty bun cha (grilled pork and noodle). It’s cycling along the cobblestone streets of Hoi An, stopping to browse the clothing racks of over 400 skilled tailors. It’s kicking back in a wooden tub as oozy warm mud is poured over you in the Nha Trang mud baths.

it always ends up being a highlight in Vietnam. The train ride is an authentic local experience and one that highlights the friendliness of the Vietnamese people.

Even sleeping seems more fun, as anyone who’s drifted off to sleep in a traditional junk on Halong Bay will testify. And while overnight Very hot & dry 35oC+ o Hoton & dryanyone’s 30-35 C trains rarely feature ‘must-do’ list, o Monsoon 25-35 C Pleasantly warm 20-30oC

THAILAND Bangkok Phuket Chiang Mai

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Seasonal weather patterns BURMA (MYANMAR) Rangoon Mandalay

VIETNAM Hanoi Hoi An Ho Chi Minh City CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Siem Reap LAOS Luang Prabeng Vientiane

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC INDIA Delhi (North India) Kochi (South India) Varanasi JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Regional Product Manager, SE Asia SRI LANKA Colombo Galle JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC NEPAL Kathmandu Pokhara Lukla TIBET Lhasa BHUTAN Paro

A selection of inspired accommodation:

Louisa Virgato

HanoiINDONESIA – Lan Vien Hotel Yogyakarta

Ubud Sapa – Bamboo Sapa Hotel BORNEO Kota Kinabalu Kuching

Hue – Mondial Hotel

Hoi An – Hoi An Historic Hotel PNG

Nha Trang – Asia Paradise Hotel Dalat – Hotel Du Parc

Mui Ne – Sea Links Beach Resort Ho Chi Minh City – Asian Ruby Hotel

“Hire a bike in Hoi An and cycle to An Bang Beach from your accommodation. It’s about 3 kilometres away and you can relax on sun chairs under palm-frond umbrellas. If you feel peckish, one of the beachside restaurants will cook up a freshly caught seafood treat right in front of you. If you order chilli crab, some restaurant owners will even swim out and check their crab pots to bring back your meal.”

peregrineadventures.com // 17

New

DAYS

Vintage Vietnam

“I love taking people for an overnight homestay in the Mekong. You meet local people, see three generations of family living together and get an understanding of how to enjoy the simple life. It is better than any hotel.” Phong Tran, Peregrine local leader. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Mekong Delta Cruise the Mekong Delta and explore its waterways. The delta is famous for harvests of tropical fruits, flowers and rice. Overnight homestay tonight.

Hanoi Halong Bay

Days 3-4 Ho Chi Minh City Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. This former Viet Cong stronghold provides a sense of what underground life was like during the Vietnam War. Overnight train to Nha Trang. Days 5-6 Nha Trang This is a coastal city bordered by mountains and beaches. Spend two days relaxing. Enjoy a boat ride on the bay. Days 7-9 Hoi An Recently declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An has been beautifully restored and preserved. Learn culinary secrets at a cooking class. Days 10-11 Hue Drive to Hue via China Beach and the Hai Van Pass, a scenic and mountainous stretch

Hue Danang

THAILAND

Hoi An

LAOS

CAMBODIA

VIETNAM Nha Trang Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta

Vintage Vietnam

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of highway. Stop at Lang Co Beach. Cruise the Perfume River on a Dragon Boat. Day 12 Hanoi Hanoi is famous for its lakes, boulevards, public parks and Old Quarter, which is an architectural museum piece. Day 13 Halong Bay One of Vietnam’s most scenic regions, Halong Bay is dotted with beaches and grottos, created over thousands of years by waves and wind.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 11 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train, 1 night boat, 1 night homestay. Meals 14 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAVV. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Days 14-15 Halong Bay – Hanoi Return to Hanoi by bus (approx 4 hrs), stopping at Dong Trieu Factory to watch locals working on the traditional art of ceramics. The trip ends on Day 15 after breakfast.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pavv

TRIP DATES Departs every Wed & Sat, plus selected Mondays, see web for details.

VIETNAM & CAMBODIA

DAYS

Heritage Cambodia & Vietnam

Further out than most of Siem Reap’s temples, Banteay Srei, or ‘The Citadel of Women’, is not to be missed. This 10th century Hindu complex, made out of deep red sandstone, boasts reliefs that are so delicate and precise that it’s said they could have only been carved by the hand of a woman. TRIP DETAILS

ITINERARY Day 1 Phnom Penh (Mon) Arrive to a friendly welcome in Phnom Penh and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Phnom Penh Cambodia’s capital is the architectural ‘Pearl of Asia’ and home to the Khmer Rouge’s Tuol Sleng prison and the Killing Fields. Days 3-4 Siem Reap – Angkor Fly to Siem Reap and spend the following day exploring the temples of Angkor (Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat). Day 5 Siem Reap Visit Banteay Srei temple and the 12th century Preah Khan complex. Lunch at Sala Bai Hotel School and free time to explore Siem Reap. Day 6 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Fly to Ho Chi Minh City. A lively and friendly city, there is free time this afternoon to explore. Day 7 Ho Chi Minh City Time for shopping in the morning before visiting the labyrinthine Cu Chi Tunnels that enabled the Viet Cong’s control of this area in the 1960s.

Day 8 Danang – Hoi An Fly to Danang. Visit the Marble Mountains before driving to the historic city of Hoi An. Day 9 Hoi An A ‘cyclo’ is a kind of rickshaw and it’s the best way to see this ancient port city. There’s plenty to see and do, so enjoy a free afternoon to look around. Day 10 Hanoi Fly to Hanoi and explore the highlights of Vietnam’s capital in the afternoon, including the bustling backstreets of the Old Quarter.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 11 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night boat. Meals 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAHC. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pahc

TRIP DATES Start 2014 13 Jan 10 Feb 24 Feb 10 Mar 14 Apr 21 Apr 13 Oct 27 Oct 10 Nov

Finish 25 Jan 22 Feb 08 Mar 22 Mar 26 Apr 03 May 25 Oct 08 Nov 22 Nov

Start

Finish

24 Nov 08 Dec 2015 12 Jan 09 Feb 09 Mar 23 Mar 13 Apr 20 Apr

06 Dec 20 Dec 24 Jan 21 Feb 21 Mar 04 Apr 25 Apr 02 May

VIETNAM Hanoi Halong Bay

Day 11 Halong Bay Travel by road to Halong Bay. Cruise among the 3000 limestone karst islands and stay onboard overnight. Day 12 Halong Bay – Hanoi Enjoy the final hours of cruising on Halong Bay before returning to Hanoi. Day 13 Hanoi After breakfast there is time for goodbyes and then your tour comes to an end (Sat).

Danang Hoi An

THAILAND

LAOS

Angkor Siem Reap

CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Cu Chi

Ho Chi Minh City

Heritage Cambodia & Vietnam

peregrineadventures.com // 19

New

DAYS

Jewels of Indochina

Discover the diversity, cuisine, dramatic histories and natural beauty of Cambodia and Vietnam. Delve into the Khmer legacy in Phnom Penh, view Vietnam’s colourful history on the busy streets of Saigon and relive the colonial era among the grand architecture of Hanoi. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Days 1-2 Phnom Penh Be met by a Peregrine representative on arrival and transfer to your hotel. Days 3-5 Siem Reap – Angkor Wander through Siem Reap’s treelined boulevards and French shophouses. Then it’s off to experience one of the world’s true wonders, the temples of Angkor Wat. Make sure your camera battery is charged!

VIETNAM Hanoi

Halong Bay

Hue Danang

THAILAND

Hoi An

LAOS

Angkor Wat Siem Reap

CAMBODIA Nha Trang

Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta

Jewels of Indochina

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Day 6 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is characterised by an array of sights and sounds, and is a fascinating blend of old and new; East and West. Day 7 Mekong Delta Cross into Vietnam and on to the Mekong Delta. Spend the night at a local homestay on one of the Delta’s islands. Days 8-9 Ho Chi Minh City Visit a floating market for some insight into river life before a drive back to Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the War Remnants Museum and the Viet Cong’s secret Cu Chi Tunnels. Days 10-11 Nha Trang Once referred to as the ‘Cannes of the Orient’, Nha Trang’s sandy palm-lined beach and island-dotted bay still make an idyllic picture. A cosmopolitan feel prevails in the town itself. Days 12-14 Hoi An This charming port town predates Columbus, and accommodated traders from Amsterdam to Tokyo. Explore the many shops and visit the tailors.

Days 15-16 Hue Drive to Hue via China Beach and the Hai Van Pass, a scenic stretch of highway with spectacular views of Lang Co Beach. Stop for lunch at Lang Co on the way. Day 17 Hanoi Embrace the city’s culture as you wander the ancient ‘39 streets’, see a famous water puppet theatre performance and visit the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, which preserves the artistic heritage of Vietnam’s ethnic communities. Day 18 Halong Bay Travel by private minibus to the World Heritage site of Halong Bay. Cruise among the limestone karsts and spend the night on a traditional junk. Days 19-20 Halong Bay – Hanoi Board the bus back to Hanoi (approx. 4 hrs). Stop and stretch your legs at Dong Trieu Factory, watching ceramic artists at work. Your trip ends after breakfast on Day 20.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, overnight cruise Halong Bay, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 18 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train, 1 night homestay, 1 night boat. Meals 19 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAJI. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/paji

TRIP DATES Departs every Monday year round plus selected Fridays, see web for details.

VIETNAM & CAMBODIA

DAYS

Glimpse of Vietnam

During the Vietnam War, the Viet Cong dug thousands upon thousands of tunnels to help combat the better-equipped American and South Vietnamese forces. This underground labyrinth housed troops, supplies and communications, and assisted the Viet Cong in laying traps and mounting sneak attacks. ITINERARY Day 1 Hanoi (Tue) Arrive in Hanoi and take a private transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Hanoi – Hue Morning visit to Vietnam’s original university, the 11th century Temple of Literature and One Pillar Pagoda. Lunch at KOTO restaurant and overnight train to Hue. Day 3 Hue Arrive in Hue and freshen up before visiting the royal mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Cruise on the Perfume River (named for its floating orchids). Days 4-5 Hoi An Stop by China Beach and the Marble Mountains en route to Hanoi. Hoi An is a city best explored on foot, so see the sights on a walking tour. Free day in Hoi An, where you can relax or ride bikes.

TRIP DETAILS Days 6-7 Nha Trang Fly to Nha Trang. Boat trip around the offshore islands provides time for snorkelling and relaxation. Day 8 Mui Ne Continue down the coast to Mui Ne, a sleepy fishing village banded by white-sand beaches. Days 9-10 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Drive to Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City. The colonial charms of the former South Vietnamese capital are still on show. The Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels will fascinate. Day 11 Ho Chi Minh City Say goodbye to new friends as your trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City this morning (Fri).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flight, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 9 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train. Meals 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAGV. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

What to know This trip can be booked with a Halong Bay or Mekong Delta extension - see page 27 for details. VIETNAM Hanoi

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pagv

THAILAND

LAOS

Hue Danang Hoi An

TRIP DATES Start 2014 07 Jan 04 Feb 04 Mar 14 Oct 11 Nov 09 Dec

Finish 17 Jan 14 Feb 14 Mar 24 Oct 21 Nov 19 Dec

Start 2015 06 Jan 03 Feb 03 Mar

Finish 16 Jan 13 Feb 13 Mar

CAMBODIA Nha Trang Cu Chi Mui Ne Ho Chi Minh City

Glimpse of Vietnam

peregrineadventures.com // 21

DAYS

Essence of Vietnam

“One year I came to Halong Bay almost 20 times, and it always has a different feeling. I like it even in the rain, even in the really hazy atmosphere. It’s a gift from nature. I think you will always want to come back and see it again, because it makes such an impression in your mind”. Phong Tran, Peregrine local leader. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Sat) Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and take a private transfer to your hotel.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night boat. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PACL. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Day 2 Ho Chi Minh City Explore the city and catch a glimpse into its wartime past with a tour of the Viet Cong’s Cu Chi Tunnels. Day 3 Danang – Hoi An Fly to Danang. Visit the five Marble Mountains (laced with tunnels and pagodas) and China Beach. Drive to Hoi An. Day 4 Hoi An Hoi An was a trading post for the Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese and Dutch since the 15th century. Take a walking tour and explore or go shopping in your free time.

Day 5 Hanoi Short flight to Hanoi. From French colonial buildings to river bridges and streets thick with cyclists, Hanoi is a dazzling experience. Day 6 Halong Bay Drive to Halong Bay. See why the limestone karsts of Halong Bay inspire so much Vietnamese legend. Overnight cruise on a comfortable junk. Day 7 Halong Bay – Hanoi Disembark in the morning and return to Hanoi. Free afternoon to explore or shop. Day 8 Hanoi Your tour ends in Hanoi after breakfast (Sat).

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pacl

TRIP DATES Start 2014 04 Jan 18 Jan 15 Feb 01 Mar 15 Mar 19 Apr 26 Apr 18 Oct 01 Nov 15 Nov 29 Nov 13 Dec

Finish 11 Jan 25 Jan 22 Feb 08 Mar 22 Mar 26 Apr 03 May 25 Oct 08 Nov 22 Nov 06 Dec 20 Dec

Start 2015 17 Jan 14 Feb 14 Mar 28 Mar 18 Apr 25 Apr

24 Jan 21 Feb 21 Mar 04 Apr 25 Apr 02 May

VIETNAM Hanoi

Halong Bay

What to know This trip can be booked with a Mekong Delta extension - see page 27 for details.

Danang Hoi An

Cu Chi Ho Chi Minh City

Essence of Vietnam

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Finish

VIETNAM

DAYS

16 Vietnam Experience There’s a Vietnamese proverb, “hoc an, hoc noi” which means “learn to eat before learning to speak”. When you taste your first bowl of steaming pho you’ll understand why food is so revered here. Originating in northern Vietnam during the mid1880s, the country’s national dish consists of meaty broth and slippery noodles garnished with bean sprouts, basil, chillies and lime. ITINERARY Day 1 Hanoi (Thu) Meet your Peregrine representative on arrival and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Mai Chau Drive to Mai Chau, in the heart of a valley not far from Hanoi. Meet some of Vietnam’s hill tribe communities and stay overnight in a village longhouse. Day 3 Mai Chau A day in this quiet rural setting is a chance to visit local villages and meet the friendly people. Day 4 Hanoi Return to Hanoi and discover the Old Quarter. Day 5 Halong Bay Drive to Halong Bay and board your boat for the evening. The towering limestone karsts provide an unforgettable backdrop for your overnight cruise. Days 6-7 Hanoi – Hue Return to Hanoi for a free day. Enjoy lunch at the inspiring KOTO restaurant. Spend the afternoon sightseeing before an overnight train to Hue. Day 8 Hue For nearly 150 years, Hue was an imperial capital. Savour its art and architecture before a cruise on the Perfume River.

TRIP DETAILS Days 9-10 Hoi An Drive to Hoi An. This ancient port-city is heritagelisted by UNESCO. Free day to wander the streets and shop. Days 11-12 Nha Trang Fly to Nha Trang, a paradise for snorkellers. Full-day boat trip around the islands, with plenty of time for relaxing in the sun. Day 13 Mui Ne Enjoy the white sandy beach and the unlikely Sahara-esque sand dunes. Days 14-15 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Explore Ho Chi Minh City, with ancient pagodas and bustling markets. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels dug by the Viet Cong. Day 16 Ho Chi Minh City Your trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City this morning after breakfast (Fri).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flight, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 11 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train, 2 night longhouse, 1 nights boat. Meals 14 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAVE. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

TRIP DATES Start

Finish

2014 02 Jan 30 Jan 27 Feb 09 Oct 06 Nov 04 Dec

17 Jan 14 Feb 14 Mar 24 Oct 21 Nov 19 Dec

Start 2015 01 Jan 29 Jan 26 Feb

This trip can be booked with a Mekong Delta extension - see page 27 for details.

16 Jan 13 Feb 13 Mar

Hanoi Mai Chau

Halong Bay

Hue Danang Hoi An

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pave

What to know

Finish

VIETNAM

Cu Chi

Nha Trang

Mui Ne Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam Experience

Hoi An Hotel, Hoi An From poolside to beachside, the Hoi An Hotel has you covered. Make a splash in the outdoor pool or Jacuzzi, then relax with a cocktail or work up a sweat on the tennis court. It’s just a short walk to the many tailors who have set up shop in Old Town and a free shuttle run every 15 minutes to Cua Dai beach.

peregrineadventures.com // 23

New

DAYS

Northern Vietnam Discoverer

Remote Ha Giang province is regarded by locals and travellers alike as the Shangri-La of Vietnamese destinations. Rolling mountainous landscapes dotted with limestone karst formations are populated by well-preserved tribal cultures, giving the effect of a place frozen in time. ITINERARY Day 1 Hanoi (Mon) Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel, then head out to explore on foot. Day 2 Hanoi – Overnight train Morning tour of the city, passing peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. Overnight train into the high country of Sapa. Day 3 Sapa Arrive in Lai Cao then transfer to Sapa for a morning walking tour of the town. Visit Cat Cat village in the afternoon and meet members of the Black H’mong community. Day 4 Sapa A leisurely day, seeing how life unfolds here in the mountains for the Black H’mong and Red Dzao people. Day 5 Ha Giang Ha Giang province shares a border with southern China, and is known as Vietnam’s final frontier. Explore the museum and admire the traditional dress of locals living in Cuom village. Day 6 Dong Van The first of many scenic mountain drives throughout Ha Giang province. Shop at Minh Tao Market and wander through

24 // peregrineadventures.com

TRIP DETAILS Nam Luong village. Stop at Lung Tam textile village and the Vuong Family Palace in Sa Phin commune on the way to Dong Van.

Day 9 Ba Be Lake Morning boat ride on the lake, surrounded by limestone bluffs and mountains. Stay overnight with a local family.

Day 7 Dong Van Set off on a trekking loop that starts and finishes in Dong Van. The trek (approx. 4 hours) is surprisingly moderate and suitable for passengers with an average fitness level.

Day 10 Hanoi Drive from Ba Be Lake to Hanoi. Your tour finishes on arrival in Hanoi (Wed).

Day 8 Ba Be Lake A long drive to Ba Be Lake today, passing through Meo Vac. You’ll be rewarded with incredible scenery at the largest natural lake in Vietnam, situated within Ba Be National Park.

TRIP DATES Start 2014 17 Mar 14 Apr 12 May 15 Sep 13 Oct 10 Nov

Finish

Start

Finish

26 Mar 23 Apr 21 May 24 Sep 22 Oct 19 Nov

2015 23 Mar 20 Apr 11-May 21 Sep 12 Oct 9 Nov

1 Apr 29 Apr 20 May 30 Sep 21 Oct 18 Nov

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights homestay, 3 nights hotel, 1 night overnight train. Meals 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 12. Trip code PAND. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pand

Ha Giang Sapa

Dong Van Ba Be Lake Hanoi

VIETNAM

Northern Vietnam Discoverer

VIETNAM

New

DAYS

Beyond the Bánh Mì

Perhaps Vietnam’s most lovable (and modified) export is the humble bánh mì – the classic pork loaf roll. Encased within it’s crusty confines, nestled among combination pork and pate, you’ll find the likes of coriander, chilli, carrot, cucumber, spring onions, lemongrass and fish sauce. Fuse any number of these ingredients, and you’ve got the building blocks of many a Vietnamese delicacy. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

TRIP DATES

Days 1-2 Hanoi Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. Indulge in dinner and drinks at one of Hanoi’s beer halls – a cultural institution.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flight, overnight cruise Halong Bay, 3 cooking classes, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night homestay, 1 night overnight train, 1 night boat. Meals 11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners. Group size Maximum 12. Trip code PAFV. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Departs every Sun year round. Other departures available, see web for details.

Days 3-4 Halong Bay – Overnight train Trip to Halong Bay. Board a traditional junk for an overnight VIETNAM Hanoi Halong Bay

THAILAND

LAOS

Hue Danang Hoi An

CAMBODIA

Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta

cruise through the limestone towers of Descending Dragon Bay and enjoy a meal prepared by an on board chef. Head back to Hanoi for an overnight train journey. Day 5 Hue Explore the imperial citadel. Lunch at a local nunnery. Later, the former imperial capital will impress. Days 6-8 Hoi An The food in Hoi An won’t disappoint. Venture through the herb gardens of a local village before a cooking class at Morning Glory Cooking School. Day 9 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Indulge in a Banh Canh lunch before a city tour. Take in the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral and shop at Ben Thanh Market. Day 10 Mekong Delta Cruise through the Cai Be floating market en route to a homestay. Help your

Culinary

What to know This is a culinary journey, with a focus on exploring the different food and beverages of each region. Please let us know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pafv

hosts prepare dinner and learn some Mekong cooking secrets. Days 11-12 Ho Chi Minh City Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon to be trained by Ms Van in the intricacies of southern Vietnamese cuisine. The tour ends the following morning.

Beyond the Bánh Mì

peregrineadventures.com // 25

Cycle Vietnam

DAYS

Cycling through a country is a great way to connect with the land. Pedal from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, along backroads, central highlands and the northern coastline. Stretch your legs at the end of each day in our carefully chosen accommodation, designed to give you a great night’s sleep before the next leg of your journey. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Sun) Meet your Peregrine representative on arrival and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Ho Chi Minh City Drive out of the city and cycle to explore the Viet Cong tunnel network, honeycombing the ground beneath Cu Chi (ride 40km). Day 3 Mui Ne Travel by road and bike to the coastal town of Mui Ne, passing fishing villages and fruit plantations (60km). White sands and a cool drink awaits.

Hanoi Halong Bay

Hue Hoi An

LAOS

CAMBODIA Dalat Cu Chi

Day 5 Nha Trang Your cycle is mostly downhill through BidoupNui Ba National Park (80km). Stow the bikes and drive to the beach resort town of Nha Trang. Day 6 Nha Trang Cruise around the offshore islands, with snorkelling and a seafood lunch. Day 7 Quy Nhon Drive and cycle up the coast to Quy Nhon, a lessvisited coastal town. Aside from gold-white sands and a fishing village ambience, Quy Nhon is famed for its seafood.

VIETNAM

THAILAND

Day 4 Dalat Head away from the coast to begin your ascent into the Central Highlands. Ride to the Vietnamese alpine playground of Dalat (50km). Free time in the afternoon.

Nha Trang

Ho Chi Minh City

Cycle Vietnam

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Days 8-9 Hoi An Morning ride to the sobering war site of My Lai (35km). Drive to 15th century trading port of Hoi An. Walking tour followed by a free afternoon to explore on your own. Day 10 Hoi An Back on the bikes for a ride to China Beach and the Marble Mountains (35km). Free afternoon – optional trip to the Cham ruins at My Son.

Day 11 Hue Travel north by car before riding over the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most spectacular road trips. Ride to the ancient imperial capital of Hue, via Danang. Day 12 Hue Ride to the heritagelisted citadel and Forbidden Purple City. Cruise the Perfume River. Overnight train to Hanoi. Day 13 Hanoi Lunch at KOTO restaurant, where disadvantaged kids are given a chance to turn their lives around through hospitality work. Wander through Hanoi’s Old Quarter backstreets and visit the Temple of Literature and One Pillar Pagoda. Days 14-15 Halong Bay - Hanoi Drive to Halong Bay. Overnight cruise on a traditional junk. In the morning, return to Hanoi. Day 16 Hanoi All good things must come to an end. Say goodbye to your new friends this morning after breakfast (Mon).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, private back-up vehicles, overnight cruise Halong Bay, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 13 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train, 1 night boat. Meals 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PACV. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pacv

TRIP DATES Start 2014 16 Mar 13 Apr 11 May 21 Sep 19 Oct 16 Nov

Finish 31 Mar 28 Apr 26 May 06 Oct 03 Nov 01 Dec

Start

Finish

2015 22 Mar 12 Apr 17 May

06 Apr 27 Apr 01 Jun

Cycling Strenuous

What to know Explore by bike with plenty of time to see the sights along the way. Physical preparation is required as you are cycling in humid conditions, up to 80 kilometres per day, sometimes on hilly terrain.

VIETNAM & CAMBODIA

DAYS

3 Halong Bay Extension Hon Con Coc (Toad Island) is one of 1969 limestone islands in Halong Bay. Legend has it that during the drought, a brave toad led all the thirsty animals to heaven to ask for rain. The animals won and the toad was honoured as the Uncle of God. Now, whenever the toads grind their teeth together, the God must make it rain. ITINERARY

TRIP DATES

Day 1 Hanoi Spend the night in Hanoi, with its bicycle-filled streets and French colonial feel. Day 2 Halong Bay Travel to Halong Bay. Board a boat for your cruise and overnight stay among the limestone karsts.

Start 2014 05 Jan 02 Feb 02 Mar 12 Oct 09 Nov

Finish 08 Jan 05 Feb 05 Mar 15 Oct 12 Nov

Start

Finish

07 Dec 2015 04 Jan 01 Feb 01 Mar

10 Dec 07 Jan 04 Feb 04 Mar

Day 3 Hanoi In the morning, drive back to Hanoi where your trip ends on arrival.

DAYS

3 Mekong Delta Extension The canals and tributaries of the Mekong are lanes and highways to a teeming, roadless nation of millions. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estimated that more than two-thirds of the rural population of the Lower Mekong Basin, some 40 million people, depend on fisheries along the river for both food and income. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, overnight cruise on Halong Bay, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 1 night comfortable hotel, 1 night boat. Meals 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAHB. Price See inside front cover. For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pahb

VIETNAM Hanoi

Halong Bay Extension

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 1 night comfortable hotel, 1 night homestay. Meals 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAMD. Price See inside front cover. THAILAND

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City. Day 2 Mekong Delta Head to the Mekong Delta and your villa homestay on a midstream island. Boat ride through the narrow

channels, observing local life and visit a floating market. Day 3 Ho Chi Minh City Return to Ho Chi Minh City and say goodbye. TRIP DEPARTS DAILY

For more information CAMBODIA www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pamd

VIETNAM Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta

DAYS

More than 3000 apsaras, or heavenly nymphs, are carved into the walls of Angkor Wat. Each one is different, and there are 37 different hairstyles alone. Many of the nymphs were damaged in the 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, when harsh chemicals were used to clean the temples. They are now being restored by the German Apsara Conservation Project. ITINERARY

Day 2 Angkor Memorable day exploring the Angkor complex including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm and Angkor Thom.

LAOS

Mekong Delta Extension

4 Angkor Extension Day 1 Siem Reap Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel.

Halong Bay

Day 3 Banteay Srei Visit Banteay Srei and have lunch at Sala Bai Hotel School. Day 4 Siem Reap Your trip ends in Siem Reap this morning after breakfast. TRIP DEPARTS DAILY

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAAE. LAOS Price See inside front cover. For more information THAILAND www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/paae

Angkor Siem Reap

CAMBODIA

Angkor Extension

peregrineadventures.com // 27

Cambodia,

Laos & Thailand A history that is raw and jumbled,

a landscape that is stunning

and people that are warm and friendly

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Journey through a living history These Peregrine destinations wear their raw, jumbled, often beautiful and sometimes savage history firmly on their sleeves. One day, you might be in Angkor Wat watching sunset over the ruins. The next you’re being confronted by the horrors of the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Prison. Venture deep inside Laos’ Pak Ou Caves only to emerge, blinking, into the sunlight as it glistens off the water on a river cruise. Millennia of long bloody wars stand in contradiction with a trail of ancient monasteries and celebrations of the Buddha.

See these countries through local eyes. Your tour leaders are home grown (and proud of it!), the groups are small and intimate and the pace of travel is quick enough to see everything but slow enough to appreciate it all.

o Beyond the postcard of Thailand you C+ Very hot Verypictures hot & & dry dry 35 35oC+ o oC Hot & dry 30-35 Hot & dry 30-35 C o will find a nation of proud people. Proud of their Monsoon C Monsoon 25-35 25-35oC C Pleasantly warm warm 20-30 20-30ooC Pleasantly vibrant capital and idyllic beaches. Their king JAN FEB FEB MAR MAR APR APR MAY MAY JUN JUN JUL JUL AUG AUG SEP SEP OCT OCT NOV NOV DEC DEC JAN and royal family. Their cuisine. And, of course, THAILAND THAILAND Bangkok proud toBangkok share their country with you. Phuket

Phuket Chiang Chiang Mai Mai

BURMA BURMA (MYANMAR) (MYANMAR) Rangoon Rangoon Mandalay Mandalay VIETNAM VIETNAM Hanoi Hanoi Hoi An An Hoi Ho Chi Chi Minh Minh City City Ho

JAN FEB FEB MAR MAR APR APR MAY MAY JUN JUN JUL JUL AUG AUG SEP SEP OCT OCT NOV NOV DEC DEC JAN

Seasonal weather patterns CAMBODIA CAMBODIA Phnom Phnom Penh Penh Siem Siem Reap Reap LAOS LAOS Luang Prabeng Prabeng Luang Vientiane Vientiane THAILAND INDONESIA INDONESIA Bangkok Yogyakarta Yogyakarta Phuket Ubud Ubud Chiang Mai BORNEO BORNEO BURMAKota (MYANMAR) Kota Kinabalu Kinabalu Rangoon Kuching Kuching Mandalay PNG PNG VIETNAM

JAN FEB FEB MAR MAR APR APR MAY MAY JUN JUN JUL JUL AUG AUG SEP SEP OCT OCT NOV NOV DEC DEC JAN Very hot & dry 35oC+ o C JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Hot & dry APR 30-35MAY JAN FEB MAR MAR JAN FEB APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC INDIA JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Delhi (North India) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Kochi (South India) Varanasi SRI LANKA Colombo JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Galle NEPAL Kathmandu RegionalPokhara Product Manager, South East Asia Lukla JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TIBET Lhasa BHUTAN Paro JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

A selection Hanoiof inspired accommodation: Hoi An Ho Chi Minh City

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC

Louisa Virgato

Siem Reap – Steung Siem Reap CAMBODIA

Phnom Penh Phnom Penh – Hotel Ohana Siem Reap

Vientiane – City Inn LAOS

Luang Prabeng Luang Prabang – New Daraphet Villa Vientiane

Bangkok – Nouvo City Hotel JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN INDONESIA Yogyakarta Ubud

JUL AUG SEP OCT

Chiang Mai – Imperial Mae Ping Hotel BORNEO Kota Kinabalu Kuching PNG

“Luang Prabang for me is the true Laos – welcoming, relaxed and friendly. The town has a chilled out atmosphere that rubs off on you straight away. Any stress from home seems to disappear during NOV DEC a leisurely stroll down the main street.”

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

peregrineadventures.com // 29

New

DAYS

10 Thailand Unearthed Native to the mountainous regions of China, Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, the H’mong people boast a wealth of culture and art. Their clothes, which they weave and embroider by hand, are cobbled together using indigo plants, cotton and hemp. In H’mong cultures, everyone from children to the elderly is always dressed in their finest garments. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Days 1-2 Bangkok (Sat) Arrive in Bangkok to a private transfer to your hotel. Visit the Emerald Buddha and cruise along the city’s canals.

Day 6 Sukhothai Visit the elephant hospital at the Friends of the Asian Elephant Centre in Lampang before going to Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital.

Days 3-4 Chiang Mai The most vibrant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is home to many temples and an interesting old city area.

Day 7 Sukhothai - Kanchanaburi Sukhothai means ‘Dawn of Happiness’. Ride bikes around this World Heritage-listed historical park then head south to Kanchanaburi. Day 8 Kanchanaburi A day tour around the area visits Hellfire Pass, the war cemetery and the Bridge on the River Kwai.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night lodge, 1 night overnight train. Meals 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAAT. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Day 5 H’mong Lodge The H’mong are an ethnic minority people originating from southern China, and are Thailand’s second-largest hill tribe group. Barbecue dinner and a H’mong cultural show in the evening.

Days 9-10 Bangkok Evening river cruise and dinner on the mighty Chao Phraya River. The trip ends on Day 10 after breakfast (Mon).

Hmong Hilltribe Lodge, Thailand Surrounded by rolling hills, rice fields and mountain views, this jungle lodge combines simplicity and style. Being 2700-feet above sea level means you’ll have a pleasant climate all year round, and there are just ten lodges to provide an intimate connection with your surroundings. The site was chosen for of its proximity to several Hmong villages, and you’ll get the chance to meet your friendly tribal neighbours during a cultural performance each night after dinner. Some of our favourite dishes at the open-air restaurant include tom kha gai, red curry and Thai crab cakes.

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For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/paat

TRIP DATES Start 2014 04 Jan 11 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 22 Feb 08 Mar 22 Mar 05 Apr 19 Apr 03 May 17 May 31 May 14 Jun 28 Jun 12 Jul 19 Jul 26 Jul 09 Aug 23 Aug 06 Sep 13 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct

Finish 13 Jan 20 Jan 03 Feb 17 Feb 03 Mar 17 Mar 31 Mar 14 Apr 28 Apr 12 May 26 May 09 Jun 23 Jun 07 Jul 21 Jul 28 Jul 04 Aug 18 Aug 01 Sep 15 Sep 22 Sep 06 Oct 13 Oct

Start 25 Oct 08 Nov 15 Nov 22 Nov 06 Dec 13 Dec 20 Dec 2015 03 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 31 Jan 14 Feb 28 Feb 14 Mar 28 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr 25 Apr 09 May 23 May 06 Jun 20 Jun

Finish 03 Nov 17 Nov 24 Nov 01 Dec 15 Dec 22 Dec 29 Dec 12 Jan 19 Jan 26 Jan 09 Feb 23 Feb 09 Mar 23 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 04 May 18 May 01 Jun 15 Jun 29 Jun

Chiang Mai H’mong Lodge

Sukhothai

THAILAND Kanchanaburi/ River Kwai

Bangkok

Thailand Unearthed

THAILAND & LAOS

DAYS

9 Journey Down the Laos Mekong Beginning in Thailand, this incredible adventure takes you down the mighty Mekong River through Laos, a country still largely untouched by tourism. Be enthralled by traditions unchanged for centuries and the simplicity of village life humming along the river. TRIP DETAILS

ITINERARY Day 1 Bangkok (Sun) Take a private transfer to your hotel, and settle in. Day 2 Bangkok Guided tour of the capital, including the Grand Palace and the sacred Wat Phra Kaew, home of the Emerald Buddha. Fly to Chiang Rai. Day 3 Pakbeng Wake up early to cross the border into Laos. Leisurely boat cruise to Pakbeng.

Huay Xai Chiang Rai

Pakbeng

Phonsavan

Luang Prabang

Vientiane

LAOS

THAILAND

Bangkok

Journey Down the Laos Mekong

Day 4 Luang Prabang Continue down the Mekong to Luang Prabang, stopping at Pak Ou Caves and Ban Sang Hai, along the way. Day 5 Luang Prabang Rise early to see the monks collecting alms. Give food to a monk to ‘het bon’ or make merit, which should augur well for your next life! Your last stop is Kuang Si Falls. Day 6 Phonsavan Private bus to remote Xieng Khuang. Delve into the mystery that is the Plain of Jars – an ancient archaeological site. Spend the night in the small village of Phonsavan. Days 7-8 Vientiane After a flight to Vientiane, tour the capital including the Patuxai war memorial, Wat Si Saket, Wat Prakeo and the gold covered Pha That Luang. Day 9 Vientiane This is where your trip ends after breakfast (Mon).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night basic hotel. Meals 8 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAJD. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pajd

TRIP DATES Start 2014 05 Jan 12 Jan 02 Feb 09 Feb 16 Feb 02 Mar 16 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 27 Apr 07 Sep 21 Sep 05 Oct 19 Oct

Finish

Start

Finish

13 Jan 20 Jan 10 Feb 17 Feb 24 Feb 10 Mar 24 Mar 14 Apr 21 Apr 05 May 15 Sep 29 Sep 13 Oct 27 Oct

02 Nov 16 Nov 30 Nov 14 Dec 2015 04 Jan 11 Jan 01 Feb 08 Feb 15 Feb 01 Mar 15 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 26 Apr

10 Nov 24 Nov 08 Dec 22 Dec 12 Jan 19 Jan 09 Feb 16 Feb 23 Feb 09 Mar 23 Mar 13 Apr 20 Apr 04 May

peregrineadventures.com // 31

DAYS

6 Cambodia Discovery Angkor Wat is the largest single religious building in the world, and is certainly the most famous of all Cambodia’s sights. Built by King Suravarman II in the 12th century for the Hindu god Vishnu, the temple was converted to Buddhist use in the 13th century: which is the reason for the scores of decorative Buddha statues. ITINERARY Day 1 Phnom Penh Sua s’dei! Welcome to Cambodia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1. Day 2 Phnom Penh Sitting on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh is famous for its French-inspired architecture. Guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and sobering visit to the Choeung Ek Memorial. Then it’s onto the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Don’t forget to sample the goods at a local bakery.

TRIP DETAILS Days 3-4 Siem Reap – Angkor Fly to Siem Reap and spend the following day exploring the temples of Angkor (Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat) for yourself. Days 5-6 Siem Reap Visit the red sandstone Banteay Srei temple and the 12th century Preah Khan complex. Lunch at Sala Bai Hotel School and free time to explore Siem Reap. The tour ends on the morning of Day 6.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flight, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 5 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PACC. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pacc

THAILAND

Angkor Siem Reap

CAMBODIA

Phnom Penh

TRIP DATES Departs every Mon year round, plus selected Fridays, see web for details.

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LAOS

Cambodia Discovery

THAILAND, LAOS & CAMBODIA

DAYS

14 Laos & Cambodia Explorer Shrouded in mystery, Laos’ Plain of Jars is a beguiling sight. The origin of these large stone jars, which weigh up to a tonne and are scattered across the landscape, still puzzles experts. Though some are smashed as a result of the US bombing of Laos during the “Secret War”, many remain to inspire the imaginations of travellers and locals alike. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Bangkok (Sun) You’ve arrived in Bangkok, where a Peregrine representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Day 2 Bangkok – Chiang Rai Experience a day in Bangkok, including a tour of Wat Po, home of the Reclining Buddha. Fly to Chiang Rai. Day 3 Pakbeng Cross the border into Laos then board our slow boat for a voyage down the Mekong to Pakbeng. This trip is perfectly paced to view the local way of life along the river. VIETNAM Huay Xai Chiang Rai

Phonsavan

Pakbeng Luang Prabang

Vientiane

LAOS

THAILAND

Bangkok

CAMBODIA

Angkor Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

Laos & Cambodia Explorer

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 12 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night basic hotel. Meals 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PALC. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Day 4 Luang Prabang Cruise down the river and stop to check out Pak Ou Caves and its miniature Buddhist statues, plus have a sip of the local rice wine at Ban Sang Hai. Day 5 Luang Prabang An early start in order to watch hundreds of monks collecting alms. Explore historic temples and the former Royal Palace, then visit Kuang Si Falls. Day 6 Phonsavan Drive to Phonsavan and visit the ancient Plain of Jars, where hundreds of Iron Age stone jars are scattered across the plateau. Days 7-8 Vientiane Fly to the capital of Laos, Vientiane. City tour of the Patuxai memorial, along with Wat Si Saket, Wat Prakeo and the golden Pha That Luang stupa. Days 9-10 Phnom Penh Fly to Phnom Penh in Cambodia. Free time to wander the streets, browse markets or watch the world go by from one of the many cafes. The following day see the sights on a guided tour of the Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Prison Museum and Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/palc

TRIP DATES Days 11-12 Siem Reap – Angkor Fly to Siem Reap. See Angkor in all its glory. Explore the royal city of Angkor Thom, along with Ta Prohm, where trees have embedded themselves in the stone foundations. Day 13 Siem Reap Wander through sacred Banteay Srei and the ruins of Preah Khan. Lunch is prepared and served by students of the Sala Bai Hotel School. Enjoy your own time exploring Siem Reap.

Start 2014 05 Jan 02 Feb 09 Feb 16 Feb 02 Mar 16 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 27 Apr 07 Sep 21 Sep 05 Oct 19 Oct

Finish

Start

Finish

18 Jan 15 Feb 22 Feb 01 Mar 15 Mar 29 Mar 19 Apr 26 Apr 10 May 20 Sep 04 Oct 18 Oct 01 Nov

02 Nov 16 Nov 30 Nov 14 Dec 2015 04 Jan 01 Feb 08 Feb 15 Feb 01 Mar 15 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 26 Apr

15 Nov 29 Nov 13 Dec 27 Dec 17 Jan 14 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 14 Mar 28 Mar 18 Apr 25 Apr 09 May

Day 14 Siem Reap Time to say goodbye to your travel buddies as your adventure ends this morning (Sat).

peregrineadventures.com // 33

DAYS

21 Indochina Adventure The Pak Ou Caves in Luang Prubang, have been a place of Buddhist worship for over a thousand years. The first pilgrims to visit the cave left behind a Buddha statue, and countless pilgrims have followed suit over the years. The cave, which is split into upper (Tham Theung) and lower (Than Ting) chambers, is now filled with thousands of Buddha images. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Bangkok (Sun) Arrive in Bangkok and be welcomed by a Peregrine representative before transferring to the hotel.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 18 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night basic hotel, 1 night boat. Meals 20 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAIA. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Day 2 Bangkok – Chiang Rai Ferry cruise along the Chao Praya River. Visit the Grand Palace and the most sacred of Thai temples, Wat Phra Kaew, home of the Emerald Buddha, fly to Chiang Rai. Day 3 Pakbeng Time for a border crossing into Laos. Boat to the village of Pakbeng at the junction of the mighty Mekong and the smaller Beng River. Day 4 Luang Prabang Cruise down the Mekong to Luang Prabang and stop off at Pak Ou Caves – boasting miniature Buddhist statues and Ban Sang Hai. Day 5 Luang Prabang Every morning, hundreds of monks walk the streets to collect alms. Rise early to see them, then explore temples and the former Royal Palace. Visit to the triple-tiered Kuang Si Falls. Day 6 Phonsavan From Phonsovan, head to the ancient Plain of Jars site, where hundreds of large stone jars dating back to the Iron Age are scattered over the plateau. Days 7-8 Vientiane Fly in to the Laotian capital, Vientiane. Visit the Patuxai war memorial, Wat Si Saket, Wat Prakeo and the golden Pha That Luang. Days 9-10 Phnom Penh Flight to Phnom Penh and enjoy some free time. See the sights on a guided tour including Khmer Rouge’s Tuol Sleng prison and the Killing Fields.

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VIETNAM Phonsavan Pakbeng

Chiang Rai

Hanoi Halong Bay

Luang Prabang Vientiane

LAOS

THAILAND

Danang Hoi An Bangkok Angkor

Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

CAMBODIA Cu Chi Ho Chi Minh City

Indochina Adventure

Days 11-12 Siem Reap – Angkor Fly to Siem Reap and enjoy a fully guided tour of Angkor. Day 13 Siem Reap Wander through sacred Banteay Srei and the ruins of Preah Khan. Lunch is prepared and served by students of the Sala Bai Hotel School. Free time exploring Siem Reap.

Day 17 Hoi An Hoi An was a trading post for the Indians, Chinese, Japanese and Dutch since the 15th century. Walking tour, explore or shop in your free time.

Day 14 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Day 18 Hanoi Short flight to Hanoi. From French Colonial buildings to river bridges and streets thick with cyclists, Hanoi is a dazzling experience.

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy dinner at one of the city’s restaurants.

Day 19 Halong Bay Drive to Halong Bay with it’s legendary limestone karts. Overnight cruise on a junk.

Day 15 Ho Chi Minh City Explore the city and catch a glimpse of its wartime past with a tour of the Viet Cong’s Cu Chi Tunnels. Day 16 Danang – Hoi An Fly to Danang. Visit the five Marble Mountains (laced with tunnels and pagodas) and China Beach. Drive to Hoi An.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/paia

TRIP DATES Start 2014 05 Jan 02 Feb 16 Feb 02 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 05 Oct 19 Oct 02 Nov

Finish 25 Jan 22 Feb 08 Mar 22 Mar 26 Apr 03 May 25 Oct 08 Nov 22 Nov

Start 16 Nov 30 Nov 2015 04 Jan 01 Feb 01 Mar 15 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr

Finish 06 Dec 20 Dec 24 Jan 21 Feb 21 Mar 04 Apr 25 Apr 02 May

Day 20 Halong Bay – Hanoi Disembark in the morning and return to Hanoi. Free afternoon to explore or do some shopping. Day 21 Hanoi Your tour ends in Hanoi after breakfast (Sat).

MULTI-COUNTRY

New

DAYS

13 Antiquities of Asia Though not as famous as the likes of Angkor Wat or Burma’s Shwedagon Pagoda, Thailand’s historic city of Ayuthaya is no less remarkable. Between the 14th to 18th centuries, it became one of the largest and most developed urban areas in the world, and a centre of diplomacy and commerce in its own right. Despite its strength, an attack from the Burmese army in 1767 almost reduced the city to rubble. Though never rebuilt, a visit here still leaves no doubt of the city’s former majesty. ITINERARY Day 1 Rangoon (Yangon) (Mon) Welcome to Burma! Arrive in Rangoon and transfer to your hotel. Days 2-3 Pagan (Bagan) Fly to Pagan after breakfast and spend the next day and a half exploring the 4000 Buddhist temples of Pagan. Day 4 Pagan Take a bike ride through Pagan, the former centre of Burmese power. Day 5 Rangoon Fly back to Rangoon and enjoy a full day sightseeing, a highlight being the famed golden Shwedagon Pagoda. There is also time for a bargain at Bogyoke Market.

TRIP DETAILS Day 6 Bangkok Farewell Burma and fly into Thailand. Arrive in Bangkok or as the locals call it, Krung Thep (City of Angels), and transfer to the hotel. Day 7 Ayuthaya Head towards Ayuthaya. Cruise around the ancient capital, which was established in 1350, and end the day with a dinner cruise on a converted rice barge. Day 8 Ayuthaya Cycle to the Summer Palace at Bang Pa-In. Day 9 Bangkok Head back to the capital for a sightseeing tour taking in the Grand Palace and Wat Po.

Day 10 Siem Reap Depart Thailand and fly into the gateway to Angkor, Siem Reap. Enjoy a tasty Khmer dinner. Day 11 Angkor Guided tour through the ruins of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm and Angkor Thom. Day 12 Siem Reap Travel to the sacred Banteay Srei, famed for its detailed and intricate stone carvings. Indulge in lunch prepared by students of the Sala Bai Hotel School. Day 13 Siem Reap The trip ends in Siem Reap this morning (Sat).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leaders, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 12 nights hotel. Meals 12 breakfasts, 2 lunch, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAAA. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/paaa

TRIP DATES Start 2014 13 Jan 10 Feb 10 Mar 13 Oct 10 Nov 15 Dec

Finish 25 Jan 22 Feb 22 Mar 25 Oct 22 Nov 27 Dec

Start

Finish

2015 12 Jan 09 Feb 09 Mar

24 Jan 21 Feb 21 Mar

BURMA (MYANMAR) Pagan

Rangoon

THAILAND

Ayuthaya Bangkok

Angkor Siem Reap

CAMBODIA

Antiquities of Asia

peregrineadventures.com // 35

DAYS

28 Asia in Depth – Bangkok to Shanghai All across China and South East Asia, the smiles of the locals line the highways, populate the villages, and even have a place in the busiest of cities. Perhaps it’s the way of life; perhaps it’s simply in the their nature. Whatever the case, a journey across these lands will inspire as many smiles as it encounters. ITINERARY Day 1 Bangkok (Sun) Arrive in Bangkok to a warm welcome and a private transfer to your hotel.

Day 14 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Day 2 Bangkok – Chiang Rai

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City for free time for the rest of the day. Perhaps grab a bike and cycle through the streets.

Get your bearings in Bangkok on a tour of all the must-see sites, including Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Fly to Chiang Rai.

Day 15 Ho Chi Minh City Discover Vietnam’s fascinating past at the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace. Head out to the Cu Chi tunnels in the afternoon.

Day 3 Pakbeng Rise early to travel to the border and cross into Laos. Take a boat to the village of Pakbeng.

Day 16 Danang – Hoi An Fly to the coastal town of Danang. Visit China Beach and its stunning backdrop, the Marble Mountains. Drive to Hoi An.

Day 4 Luang Prabang Continue down the Mekong to Luang Prabang, stopping en route at Pak Ou Caves and Ban Sang Hai. Day 5 Luang Prabang Watch the daily procession of monks on alms round. Explore historic temples and the former Royal Palace. Visit the Kuang Si Falls and the Night Bazaar. Day 6 Phonsavan Drive to Phonsavan and visit the Plain of Jars, where hundreds of enormous stone jars are littered across the plateau.

Day 17 Hoi An Take a cyclo tour around charming Hoi An. Free time to explore in the afternoon – grab a bike and ride around the streets or just watch the world go by from a cafe. Day 18 Hanoi Fly to Hanoi. See the Temple of Literature and One Pillar Pagoda. Lunch at KOTO restaurant – a project aimed at providing vocational training and experience for underprivileged young people.

Days 7-8 Vientiane Fly to Vientiane and explore the riverside capital on a guided tour.

Day 19 Halong Bay Drive to Halong Bay. Board a boat and cruise among the limestone karsts, staying onboard overnight.

Days 9-10 Phnom Penh Fly to Phnom Penh and meet your Cambodian local leader on arrival. Free time for the rest of the day. Spend the following day on a guided tour.

Day 20 Halong Bay – Hanoi Complete the cruise on Halong Bay and return to Hanoi. Free time to wander and perhaps shop on Hang Gai Street or afternoon tea at the Metropole Hotel.

Days 11-12 Siem Reap – Angkor Fly to Siem Reap. The following day is a fully guided discovery, taking in Angkor in all its glory.

Day 21 Beijing Fly to Beijing and transfer to your hotel.

Day 13 Siem Reap Visit Banteay Srei, famous for its detailed and intricate stone carvings. Lunch at Sala Bai Hotel School and free time to explore Siem Reap.

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Day 22 Beijing Get your bearings in China’s capital city by visiting Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square. Day 23 Great Wall – Beijing Day trip to the one of the best preserved sections of the Great Wall at Mutianyu. In the evening there’s the

opportunity to see a performance by the Peking Opera. Day 24 Beijing – Xian Free day to explore Beijing. There’s some great shopping at the various markets around the city, such as the centrally located Dashilan Market. High speed train to Xian. Days 25 Xian Wander through the Muslim Quarter and taste local food. Visit the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. Days 26 Shanghai Fly to Shanghai. Free time to wander along the Bund and shop on nearby Nanjing Road. Optional Shanghai acrobat performance. Beijing

Day 27 Shanghai Explore the canals of the water town of Zhouzhuang, where Marco Polo once roamed in the 1200s. Day 28 Shanghai Alas, your Asian adventure ends in Shanghai this morning after breakfast (Sat).

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leaders, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 25 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night basic hotel, 1 night boat. Meals 27 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAAD. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

CHINA For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/paad

Xian Shanghai

TRIP DATES Start

VIETNAM Hanoi

Chiang Rai Pakbeng

Phonsavan

Halong Bay

Luang Prabang Vientiane

THAILAND

LAOS Danang Hoi An

Bangkok

Angkor

Siem Reap

CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Cu Chi Ho Chi Minh City

Asia in Depth – Bangkok to Shanghai

2014 02 Mar 06 Apr 19 Oct

Finish

Start

Finish

29 Mar 03 May 15 Nov

2015 15 Mar 05 Apr 27 Sep

11 Apr 02 May 24 Oct

LAOS & CAMBODIA

New

DAYS

10 Malaysian Encounter Emerging from Dutch, Portuguese and British rule, Malaysia has prospered into a diverse and multicultural country. Chinese, Malay, Indian and Indo-Chinese cultures have combined to give the nation its unique flavour. Whilst Islam is the state religion, a plethora of others including Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity are practiced freely â&#x20AC;&#x201C; resulting in year-round festivals. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Singapore (Thu) Arrive early in Singapore and spend time in Little India and Chinatown or shop on Orchard Road.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights hotel, 1 night homestay. Meals 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAMK. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Days 2-3 Malacca (Melaka) Travel to Malacca, a former colonial outpost, and take a trishaw ride through winding streets. Later, sample flavours of Chinese and Malay fusion cuisine in a nonya cooking class. Days 4-5 KualaTHAILAND Lumpur Explore the capital of Malaysia, a mix of Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures. Perhaps soak up the view from atop the Menara Kuala Lumpur before a cultural performance and buffet dinner.

Pulau Langkawi Penang

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pamk

TRIP DATES Start

Day 6 Island Hideaway Enjoy a memorable homestay on the shores of a picturesque lake. Day 7 Penang Take time in Penang to tour the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion or poke around the antique shops of Chulia Street.

Days 8-10 Pulau Langkawi Swim with shoals of fish in the Pulau Payar Marine Park, indulge in a barbecue seafood dinner and take a cable car ride for views over this tropical haven. Your trip ends after breakfast on the morning of Day 10 (Sat).

2014 02 Jan 13 Feb 13 Mar 10 Apr 08 May 05 Jun 03 Jul 31 Jul 28 Aug

Finish

Start

Finish

11 Jan 22 Feb 22 Mar 19 Apr 17 May 14 Jun 12 Jul 09 Aug 06 Sep

25 Sep 09 Oct 20 Nov 11 Dec 2015 22 Jan 19 Feb 19 Mar 16 Apr 14 May 11 Jun

04 Oct 18 Oct 29 Nov 20 Dec 31 Jan 28 Feb 28 Mar 25 Apr 23 May 20 Jun

MALAYSIA Island Hideaway

Kuala Lumpur Malacca Singapore

Banana Boutique, Penang, Malaysia We put you right in the midst of the action at this centrally located hotel. In just two minutes you can stroll to Upper Penang Road, with its many restaurants, cafes and bars. Built in a restored heritage building on Chulia Street, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also in a fantastic position to explore the unique architectural and cultural aspects that led to George Town being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Malaysian Encounter

peregrineadventures.com // 37

Borneo, Papua New Guinea & Indonesia Untamed and undeniable

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A treasure chest of delights. Untamed and undeniable – two words that suit Borneo, Papua New Guinea and Indonesia to a tee. In Borneo you’ll get to see the big drawcard wildlife in their natural habitat, and follow the well-worn Headhunters Trail in the footsteps of Kayan warriors.

With 17,000 islands to choose from, there is no shortage of jewels in Indonesia’s crown. Cruise to Pulau Bungin, with its narrow streets, stilted houses and small settlement of sea gypsies (bajao). Share the sand with prehistoric Komodo dragons on their namesake island. Stroll along rose-coloured sand on the aptly named Pink Beach. Sometimes it really is the simple things in life.

Physical strength and mental determination are the main players on Kokoda’s grand stage; set against a backdrop of dense rainforest, o excruciatingly steep gullies and C+ Veryridges, hot & dry 35sheer Hot & dry 30-35oC rocky creek beds. Your local Monsoon 25-35oCleader will be a Pleasantly warm 20-30oC descendant of the original Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels. JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC See their homes, share meals with their family, THAILAND Bangkok hear the stories handed from their fathers and Phuket Chiang Mai grandfathers and get beaten at soccer by their JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC BURMA (MYANMAR) kids. Rangoon Mandalay

VIETNAM Hanoi Hoi An Ho Chi Minh City CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Siem Reap

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Seasonal weather patterns LAOS Luang Prabeng Vientiane INDONESIA Yogyakarta Ubud BORNEO Kota Kinabalu Kuching

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

PNG

Julian McGrath Peregrine Campaign and Communications Coordinator.

“Being guided through the jungle by the descendant of a man who helped a young Australian soldier 70 years ago not only gave me an appreciation for what our diggers went through, but afforded me the opportunity to take stock of myself. I shed tears on the ground where men gave their lives to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. It was hard, muddy, hot, arduous, testing stuff. At times I was willing to pack it in, but I’d do it all again tomorrow.”

INDIA Delhi (North India) Kochi (South India) Varanasi SRI LANKA Colombo Galle NEPAL Kathmandu Pokhara Lukla TIBET Lhasa BHUTAN Paro

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

A selection of inspired accommodation: Kota Kinabalu – Horizon Hotel Sukau – Myne Resort Manukan Island – Manukan Island Resort Port Moresby – Gateway Hotel Sanur (Bali) – Parigata Resort

peregrineadventures.com // 39

New

DAYS

10 Untamed Borneo Iconic of both Borneo and Sumatra, the curious and intelligent orangutan is perhaps one of the most humanlike creatures in the world. In fact, this great ape shares 97% of its DNA with us and can live for over 60 years. Males can grow up to 1.5 metres tall and their strong arms can stretch over 2 metres from fingertip to fingertip – perfect for all that climbing, swinging and general treetop loitering. ITINERARY Day 1 Kota Kinabalu (Sat) Enjoy a warm welcome in Kota Kinabalu and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Mt Kinabalu Leaving Kota Kinabalu behind, head for the Kinabalu National Park. Day 3 Poring Hot Springs Rising early, catch a glimpse of the sunrise before a morning walk through the tea plantation. Tour the tea factory itself and sample some tea. Day 4 Sandakan Once nicknamed ‘Little Hong Kong’, the Cantonese influence is evident in the harbourside market, Chinese temples and local cuisine. Day 5 Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary A quick ride winds up in Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary – see the orangutans swing on ropes and vines.

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TRIP DETAILS Day 6 Sukau Afternoon river cruise, hopefully spotting some of the local wildlife such as crocodiles, macaques, wild orangutan and proboscis monkeys.

Days 9-10 Kota Kinabalu Say goodbye to your island getaway and head back to Kota Kinabalu where your trip ends after breakfast on Day 10 (Mon).

Days 7-8 Manukan Island Spend two days on Manukan Island (20 minutes by boat), with plenty of time to relax.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pasw

TRIP DATES Start 2014 04 Jan 11 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 22 Feb 08 Mar 22 Mar 29 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 03 May 17 May

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flight, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights hotel, 5 nights chalet. Meals 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PASW. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Finish

Start

Finish

Start

Finish

Start

Finish

13 Jan 20 Jan 03 Feb 17 Feb 03 Mar 17 Mar 31 Mar 07 Apr 14 Apr 21 Apr 28 Apr 12 May 26 May

31 May 14 Jun 28 Jun 12 Jul 26 Jul 09 Aug 16 Aug 23 Aug 06 Sep 13 Sep 20 Sep 04 Oct 18 Oct 01 Nov

09 Jun 23 Jun 07 Jul 21 Jul 04 Aug 18 Aug 25 Aug 01 Sep 15 Sep 22 Sep 29 Sep 13 Oct 27 Oct 10 Nov

15 Nov 29 Nov 06 Dec 13 Dec 20 Dec 27 Dec 2015 03 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 24 Jan 31 Jan 14 Feb 28 Feb

24 Nov 08 Dec 15 Dec 22 Dec 29 Dec 05 Jan

14 Mar 28 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr 25 Apr 09 May 16 May 23 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun

23 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 04 May 18 May 25 May 01 Jun 15 Jun 22 Jun 29 Jun

12 Jan 19 Jan 26 Jan 02 Feb 09 Feb 23 Feb 09 Mar

Manukan Island

Mt Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu

Sukau

Sepilok Orangutan Reserve

BORNEO (MALAYSIA)

Untamed Borneo

BORNEO & INDONESIA

New

DAYS

14 Sail the East Indies The Komodo dragon is perhaps one of Mother Nature’s most incredible creations. While sailing around the majestic isles of the East Indies, spotting these creatures will become an obsession. Guided by the wind, cutting across the ocean, landing on isolated and blissful islands – there’s very little not to like. ITINERARY Day 1 Sanur Transfer to Sanur and be met by our representative. Day 2 Amed Arrive in Amed and board the ship. Cross Lombok Strait before stopping at one of the Gili Islands, just off the Lombok coast. Day 3 Bajo village and Moyo Island Go ashore at Pulau Bungin and watch a traditional music and dance performance. Afterwards, continue to Pulau Moyo and follow the coast towards the east of Sumbawa. Day 4 Deserted Island Arrive on the North East coast of the island of Sumbawa. Proceed to the island of Banta in the afternoon, within the boundaries of the Komodo National Park. Day 5 Komodo Trek around Komodo National Park, looking for wild boar, deer, birds and the famous Komodo dragons. Sail to Pink Beach, stop for lunch then continue to the west of Flores. Spend the night in the bay of Labuhan Bajo. Day 6 Labuhan Bajo Arrive in Labuhan Bajo this morning, then head to Rinca in the afternoon. Anchor in the bay of Loh Buaya.

TRIP DETAILS Day 7 Komodo National Park – Rinca Island Shortly after sunrise, enjoy a hike accompanied by a local ranger. Walk through open savanna where you’ll see Komodo dragon dens. Hike to the summit of Gili Lawa to take in the views. Day 8 Satonda Island Visit Satonda, the top of an extinct volcano, just to the north of Tambora. Head to the crater lake in the centre of the island and explore the reefs. At noon, sail to Moyo for sunset and dinner before sailing toward East Lombok. Day 9 East Lombok Once docked, board a local coach for a tour into tranquil East Lombok. Visit a pottery village, attend a local dance performance and enjoy a tradtional Sasak (indigenous people of Lombok) lunch on the way. Cruise to the island of Kondo and visit a coral conservation project. Day 10 Gili Nanggu – Ubud Spend the last day of the cruise on a deserted beach at Gili Nanggu. After lunch, say goodbye to your crew and meet your local leader for the next stretch of the journey.

Day 11 Ubud Tour Ubud before driving further north to Kintamani. Back to Ubud in the afternoon. Day 12 Ubud – Blimbing Drive to the area of Tabanan, and into a small Balinese village. Walk through rice fields before lunch at the home of your host. Head to Blimbing later in the day. Day 13 Blimbing – Ubud Guided 1.5 hour hike around Blimbing – an area famous for its beautiful scenery. Drive back to Sanur. Day 14 Sanur Your tour comes to an end this morning in Sanur.

Inclusions 9 day cruise with experienced cruise director and shore excursions, tour leader, accommodation and transport from Days 10-14. Accommodation 8 nights boat, 5 nights hotel. Meals 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners. Group size Maximum 14. Trip code PASE. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pase

TRIP DATES Start 2014 19 May 30 May 08 Jul

Finish 01 Jun 12 Jun 21 Jul

Start 19 Jul 30 Jul

Finish 01 Aug 12 Aug

What to know A compulsory single cabin supplement applies to single passengers.

INDONESIA

Blimbing

Moyo Ubud Amed

Santonda

Komodo Bali Sanur Lombok East Lombok

Sail the East Indies

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DAYS

11 The Kokoda Track “The endless trail winds ever on, cross gorges wild and deep. O’er perilous bridges of swaying vines, our eyes alert we keep. Round mountain side and cliff high face, where torrents far below, race on their swift and turbulent way as down chasms deep they flow.” - Corporal Peter Coverdale. Pacific Ocean Bismarck Sea

This 90-kilometre trek follows the trail used during World War II, taking in mountain passes, snaking along ridges and descending into

deep gullies. Along the way you Rabaul will visit small, isolated villages, war sites, ancient forests and new extinct volcanic craters. britain Kokoda Deniki Isurava Alola

Solomon Sea

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Kokoda

Myola

Efogi

Owers’ Corner

Menari Nauro

Port Moresby

Ioribaiwa Uberi

The Kokoda Track

Eora Creek Templeton’s Crossing

Ower’s Cnr

Peregrine works with a local co-operative to ensure villages and communities benefit directly from visitors walking the Kokoda Track. The co-operative involves 11 villages along the trail and our porters and guides come from these villages – direct descendants of the fabled ‘Fuzzy-Wuzzies’ who assisted Australian troops in World War II. It is so rewarding to not only walk in the footsteps of the soldiers, but to be accompanied by descendants of the people who helped them. It transforms a mentally and physically challenging trek into an emotional

Coral Sea

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journey as well. By the time you finish, the ties that bind Papua New Guineans and Australians are both better understood and renewed. Employing locals also creates jobs and opportunities. The work brings much-needed benefits to their communities, both economically and by acquiring new skills through our training programs. Every time we stay, the locals benefit, and visitors benefit from mixing and meeting with these welcoming people.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

ITINERARY - PAKT

REVERSE ITINERARY - PAKTR

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Port Moresby Meet your Peregrine representative on arrival in Port Moresby and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 Kokoda Village Short flight from Port Moresby to Kokoda by private charter plane. Meet your trekking crew and relax before starting the long walk tomorrow.

Days 2-10 Trek Start from Owers’ Corner, trek the Kokoda Track, camping and staying in huts along the way. Finish trek at Kokoda village. Trek times vary from 6-11 hours per day.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, personal porter (1:1 ratio), additional group porters, trek food packs. Accommodation 2 nights comfortable hotel, 8 nights village hut. Meals 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAKT/PAKTR. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Days 3-10 Trek Trek the Kokoda Track, camping and staying in huts along the way. Finish trek at Owers’ Corner. Trek times vary from 6-11 hours per day. Day 11 Port Moresby Say goodbye to your new friends when your trip ends in Port Moresby this morning.

Day 11 Port Moresby Say goodbye to your new friends when your trip ends in Port Moresby this morning.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pakt www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/paktr

TRIP DATES - PAKT Start 2014 *24 Apr 22 Jun 20 Jul 17 Aug

Finish

Start

04 May 02 Jul 30 Jul 27 Aug

14 Sep 12 Oct 2015 *24 Apr 21 Jun

Finish 24 Sep 22 Oct 04 May 01 Jul

TRIP DATES - PAKTR Start 2014 *15 Apr 14 Jun 12 Jul 09 Aug

Finish

Start

25 Apr 24 Jun 22 Jul 19 Aug

13 Sep 11 Oct 2015 *15 Apr 13 Jun

Finish 23 Sep 21 Oct 25 Apr 23 Jun

*Anzac Day departure

Trekking Challenging

What to know Physical preparation is essential, you will trek on terrain with plenty of ascents and descents, often on steep and narrow trails. Please note that on our special Anzac Day departure, there is no rest day on Day 8. The trek will finish on Day 11 at Owers’ Corner and return to Port Moresby that night before visiting Bomana War Cemetery on the morning of Day 12 for the Anzac Day Dawn Service.

peregrineadventures.com // 43

China

& Tibet Where history and ritual run deep...

reaching back thousands of years

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Tara Kennaway Regional Product Manager

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stroll to just outside the city wall in Xian and enjoy an early tai chi lesson with the locals, who practice with the local master every morning. They are more than accepting of uncoordinated foreigners!â&#x20AC;?

Over a billion surprises in China In many ways, the China of today is still the China of Marco Polo and the imperial dynasties. History and ritual run deep. You’ll see it in the obvious examples: the Great Wall; Beijing’s Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City; The 8000 strong Terracotta Army. Then there are subtle reminders. Watch as hundreds of people come together in modern town squares to practice ancient tai chi forms. Taste a meal infused with Middle Eastern flavours in the Muslim Quarter of Xian. Unearth hidden treasures in tiny merchant shops that appear to have been gathering dust for centuries. The sheer size of China means surprises are found in the least expected places. Bike rides and walking tours go where the big tour buses can’t. Overnight train trips are a great chance to chat

with locals. Wandering along Xi Jie (West Street) in Yangshuo where calligraphy shops and Kung Fu academies jostle for space with cafes and bars.

See the world differently in Tibet It is impossible to separate Tibet from its spirituality. It is underlined in the pervasiveness of monasteries and red-robed monks, the strangely tangible absence of the Dalai Lama and the fact that you are standing on the roof of the world. This friendly, open spirituality defines the people who live here. It has kept them strong and sure during centuries of conflict and conquest. This mysticism has drawn travellers for generations and we invite you to be part of the next chapter.

Very hot & dry 35+oC Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0oC-15oC

Seasonal weather patterns CHINA Beijing Shanghai Hong Kong Chengdu Xian Kashgar JAPAN Tokyo Hiroshima Kyoto KOREA Seoul Jeju-si CENTRAL ASIA Tehran Ulaanbaatar Bishkek Kashgar Khiva Tashkent Tbilisi Baku Yerevan

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC INDIA Delhi (North India) Kochi (South India) Varanasi SRI LANKA Colombo Galle JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC NEPAL Peregrine local leader Kathmandu Pokhara Lukla TIBET Lhasa BHUTAN Paro

Bruce Xie

“Beijing is very modern, but my favourite thing to do is bring people to the old areas. It is here that you can see the hidden beauty and history. Walking around you see people in their own community, growing up together and knowing each other very well. You don’t get that in a modern apartment city.”

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

A selection of inspired accommodation: Beijing – Rainbow Hotel Shanghai – Bund Riverside Hotel Xian – Bell Tower Hotel Hong Kong – Stanford Hillview Hotel Lhasa – New Mandala Hotel Yangshuo – New Li River Hotel

peregrineadventures.com // 45

DAYS

14 Yangtze & Beyond The Yangtze River winds, ducks and climbs through the heart of China before coming to an end in the East China Sea, near Shanghai. At around 6380 kilometres long, the Yangtze is the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, after the Amazon and the Nile. It serves as a major route of transport for Chinese industry, as well as the perfect setting for a spot of recreational cruising. ITINERARY Day 1 Shanghai (Thu) Welcome to China! You’ve landed in Shanghai and will be transferred to your hotel. Day 2 Shanghai Free time in Shanghai. Stroll along the Bund waterfront and admire historic art deco buildings. Choose between an acrobatic performance or a drink at one of the highest bars in the world. Day 3 Shanghai Drive to Zhouzhuang, the ‘Venice of the East’. Explore the canals of this town, which is perched on the water and roam its streets just like Marco Polo did nine centuries ago. Day 4 Chengdu Fly to Chengdu and to try some of the famous Sichuan cuisine. Days 5-7 Yangtze River Cruise Get up close to pandas at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, then catch a train to Chongqing and board a riverboat – your home for the next few nights. Cruise the Yangtze River and travel through the Three Gorges.

Day 8 Yichang – Xian Disembark at Yichang and visit the Three Gorges Dam before transferring to Wuhan for your flight to Xian. Day 9 Xian Explore Xian, walking through the Muslim Quarter, shops and markets. There are plenty of great food choices, ranging from Muslim fare to Chinese dumplings.

Day 14 Beijing Your trip comes to an end this morning (Wed).

Day 10 Xian Visit the ancient Terracotta Warriors. There are over 8000 of them individually sculpted from clay, all with different costumes, heights and facial expressions. Board the train for Beijing in the evening. Day 11 Beijing Check out the preserved imperial architecture at the Forbidden City and walk through historic Tiananmen Square. Day 12 Beijing – Great Wall No trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to the Great Wall. Soak up the history and views on one of the best-preserved sections of the wall.

Sunshine China, Yangtze River boat cruise Indulge in a little luxury as you cruise the mighty Yangtze aboard the Sunshine China. Sing the night away in the karaoke bar, relax in the sauna, pamper yourself at the beauty salon or simply grab a cocktail and watch the world go by from the many panoramic observation decks and lounges. With its rich, mahogany interior and morning tai chi classes, we ensure that your time on board is as comfortable as possible.

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Day 13 Beijing In the morning, stop by the Temple of Heaven and then the afternoon is free. It’s the perfect time to shop at one of the city’s markets, such as the central Dashilan Market.

TRIP DETAILS Beijing

CHINA

Xian

Shanghai Chengdu

Yichang

Chongqing

Yangtze & Beyond

Zhouzhuang

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees, Yangtze River cruise. Accommodation 9 nights comfortable hotel, 3 nights cruise boat, 1 night sleeper train. Meals 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCYB. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcyb

TRIP DATES Start 2014 09 Jan 03 Apr 17 Apr 15 May 12 Jun 17 Jul 14 Aug 11 Sep

Finish 22 Jan 16 Apr 30 Apr 28 May 25 Jun 30 Jul 27 Aug 24 Sep

Start 02 Oct 16 Oct 2015 09 Apr 23 Apr 21 May 18 Jun

Finish 15 Oct 29 Oct 22 Apr 06 May 03 Jun 01 Jul

CHINA

DAYS

8 China Highlights At over 2200 years old, there is still much to learn about Xian’s Terracotta Army. To date, around 8000 statues have been uncovered, but most of the complex remains unexcavated. Around 2000 years ago, a historian Sima Qian wrote that inside the tomb was a world with mountains of gold, stars made from pearls and flowing rivers of mercury running throughout. ITINERARY Day 1 Beijing (Sat) A Peregrine representative will meet you in Beijing and transfer you to your hotel. Day 2 Beijing Explore China’s capital on a guided tour. Visit the ancient Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven complex and Tiananmen Square. Day 3 Great Wall Spend the day at Mutianyu, regarded as one of the most attractive sections of the Great Wall. In the evening, why not settle in for a night at the Peking Opera? Day 4 Beijing – Xian Wander the grounds of the Summer Palace – a masterpiece of landscape garden design. In the afternoon, catch a high-speed train to Xian.

TRIP DATES Day 5 Xian Visit the Terracotta Warriors; the underground army of Emperor Qin Shihuang. Walk around the Muslim Quarter and browse the street vendor stalls or try some Islamic food. Day 6 Shanghai Fly to Shanghai. Tonight there’s the option of seeing Shanghai acrobats perform. Day 7 Shanghai Stroll along the Bund promenade, lined by European colonial buildings. Shop at nearby Nanjing Road. Enjoy a farewell drink from the top of a Pudong skyscraper. Day 8 Shanghai Say goodbye to your new friends as your adventure comes to a close this morning (Sat).

Start 2014 22 Mar 26 Apr 24 May 21 Jun 26 Jul 23 Aug

Finish 29 Mar 03 May 31 May 28 Jun 02 Aug 30 Aug

Beijing

CHINA Xian

Start 13 Sep 11 Oct 08 Nov 2015 04 Apr 25 Apr 09 May

Finish 20 Sep 18 Oct 15 Nov 11 Apr 02 May 16 May

Shanghai

China Highlights

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, internal flights, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 7 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCHC. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pchc

peregrineadventures.com // 47

New

DAYS

14 Icons of China “Yangshuo is a beautiful town along the river with limestone karsts. But what makes it truly phenomenal is that the locals speak perfect English. Years ago, Chinese people who couldn’t afford to travel would come from all over the country to practice their English with backpackers and other travellers. Many have stayed on, and now you can even get burritos and Vegemite sandwiches on West Street.” Tara Kennaway, Regional Product Manager. ITINERARY Day 1 Hong Kong (Mon) Take a shuttle bus transfer to your Kowloon hotel.

Day 8 Beijing Tour the city including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square.

Day 2 Hong Kong Travel to Shenzhen, then take the overnight train to Guilin.

Day 9 Great Wall – Beijing Explore the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. In the evening you have the option of seeing the Peking Opera perform.

Day 3 Guilin – Yangshuo Arrive in Guilin and take a private bus to Yangshuo, surrounded by limestone karsts and the Li River. Days 4-5 Yangshuo Enjoy early morning tai chi, then explore the scenery. Learn to prepare the local cuisine at a cooking class. Days 6-7 Xian Fly to Xian and take a walking tour of the Muslim Quarter. Enjoy free time to make your own explorations including an optional walk on the city walls. Enjoy a traditional dumpling banquet. On the morning of Day 7 enjoy a halfday guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors. Overnight train to Beijing.

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Day 10 Beijing Free day to browse the shops at Dashilan Market or take an optional trip to the Summer Place. Enjoy a Peking duck banquet in the evening. Day 11 Suzhou – Tongli Catch a high speed train to Suzhou and visit one of its famous gardens, then transfer to the town of Tongli, a ‘little Venice’ with canals, bridges and thousandyear-old alleyways. Day 12 Shanghai Travel to Shanghai. Enjoy a walk along the Bund and wander around Yuyuan Bazaar.

Day 13 Shanghai Free morning to shop or visit the Shanghai Museum. Enjoy a drink on top of one of Shanghai’s tallest buildings at Jin Mao Tower, then farewell China with a group dinner.

Beijing

CHINA Xian

Day 14 Shanghai Say goodbye to your new friends as your trip ends in Shanghai this morning (Fri).

Suzhou Shanghai

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, internal flights, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 11 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights sleeper train. Meals 11 breakfasts, 5 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCIC. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcic

Guilin Yangshuo

Shenzen Hong Kong

Icons of China

TRIP DATES Start 2014 24 Mar 21 Apr 19 May 16 Jun 28 Jul 11 Aug 25 Aug 08 Sep

Finish 04 Apr 02 May 30 May 27 Jun 08 Aug 22 Aug 05 Sep 19 Sep

Start 22 Sep 13 Oct 2015 23 Mar 20 Apr 18 May 22 Jun

Finish 03 Oct 24 Oct 05 Apr 03 May 31 May 05 Jul

CHINA

DAYS

8 Walking the Great Wall Legend has it that a dragon traced the course of China’s Great Wall, leaving behind a trail for the labourers to follow. Surrounded by as much magnificent scenery as it is by intriguing myths and folklore, this partition is a much-admired relic of an ancient world. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Beijing (Sat) Arrive in Beijing to a warm welcome and private transfer to your hotel.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel, 3 nights local guesthouse, 1 night basic hotel. Meals 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCGW. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Day 2 Beijing Take in the sights of Beijing including the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City, built more than 500 years ago and home to emperors from the Ming through to the Qing Dynasties. Day 3 Taipingzhai – Huangyaguan Rise early for a drive to the Eastern Qing Tombs. Begin your Great Wall walk, heading from Taipingzhai to Huangyaguan (3-4 hours walking time). Day 4 Jinshanling – Erchu Trek along one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall from Jinshanling to Erchu before returning to stay the night at Jinshanling (2-3 hours).

Day 5 Jinshanling – Gubeikou Start your trek from Jinshanling and continue along the Great Wall to Gubeikou. The Panlong (Coiling Dragon) and Wohu (Crouching Tiger) mountains create a stunning backdrop (5-6 hours). Day 6 Mutianyu Drive to Mutianyu. Continuing your Great Wall journey, today is all about exploring the restored section of the wall, comprising 22 watchtowers – from complex structures right down to simple beacons (2-3 hours). Day 7 Mutianyu – Beijing This is the last part of your adventure – an optional trek along a challenging part of the Great Wall at Jiankou (2-3 hours). Built in 1368 during the Ming Dynasty, the wall here is made from white hill rocks. Drive back to Beijing. Day 8 Beijing Your adventure ends after breakfast (Sat).

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcgw

TRIP DATES Start

Finish

2014 12 Apr 10 May 07 Jun 09 Aug 13 Sep 11 Oct

Start 2015 11 Apr 09 May 13 Jun

19 Apr 17 May 14 Jun 16 Aug 20 Sep 18 Oct

Finish 18 Apr 16 May 20 Jun

Jinshanling Gubeikou Jiankou Mutianyu Huangyaguan

Beijing

Eastern Pass Qing Tombs

CHINA Walking the Great Wall Walking Moderate

What to know This trip is accessible to anyone with a moderate level of fitness. Expect to walk (up and down) from 2 to 5 hours per day over 4 days of walking (plus an additional optional day).

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DAYS

23 China Panorama “As we all know, the custom of drinking tea in China is very old. Drinking tea is not only a behaviour, it’s a very social thing. You don’t drink tea by yourself purely, you invite your friend to come over and talk and drink tea. It is a part of our culture that you can bring home and share.” Bruce Xie, Peregrine local leader. ITINERARY Day 1 Kunming (Tue) Arrive in Kunming to a warm welcome and a private transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Kunming – Dali Walking tour of Kunming, stopping at the flower and bird market. Catch the bus to Dali in the afternoon. Day 3 Dali Free time to explore Dali. You have a choice of a chairlift ride up to Cangshan Mountain, a boat ride on Erhai Lake or a cycle around nearby villages. Day 4 Lijiang Catch the public bus, a great way to meet locals and see the countryside on the way to Lijiang. Your accommodation is right in the heart of the Old Town. The afternoon is free. Day 5 Lijiang Walk around the maze of cobblestone streets in the Old Town or hike up to the Wangu Pagoda on Lion Hill. Days 6-7 Tiger Leaping Gorge Bus to Tiger Leaping Gorge – one of the world’s deepest. Walk through the spectacular surroundings and spend a couple of nights in local guesthouses. Day 8 Tiger Leaping Gorge – Zhongdian Short walk in the morning, then catch the bus to Zhongdian, also known as ShangriLa. Set high on a plateau, this welcoming town has a distinctly Tibetan feel. Day 9 Zhongdian Visit Sumtseling Monastery, restored from the

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Beijing

ravages of the Cultural Revolution and a place of homage for Tibetan Lamaism. Meet a Tibetan family and learn about their unique way of life.

Xian

Day 10 Kunming – Shanghai Fly to Kunming and transfer to another flight for the teeming metropolis of Shanghai. Day 11 Shanghai Walk along the Bund or around old Shanghai. Check out the Yuyuan Bazaar. Day 12 Zhouzhuang Take a day trip to the quaint water town of Zhouzhuang. Day 13 Chengdu Fly to Chengdu – the capital of Sichuan Province. This is the best place to sample one of China’s tastiest cuisines. Day 14 Chengdu – Chongqing Get up close to the residents at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base. In the afternoon catch the train to Chongqing and board a riverboat for the start of your Yangtze cruise. Days 15-16 Yangtze River Cruise Sail along the world’s third largest waterway and through the spectacular Three Gorges. Get a bird’s eye view from the comfort of your seat. Day 17 Yichang – Xian Disembark at Yichang and visit the Three Gorges Dam before transferring to Wuhan to catch your flight to Xian. Day 18 Xian Explore Xian and sample the local fare: from Chinese

CHINA Shanghai

Chengdu

Zhouzhuang

Yichang Chongqing

Zhongdian Lijiang Dali

Kunming

China Panorama

dumplings to Muslim food. Walk around the Muslim Quarter this afternoon. Day 19 Xian See over 8000 Terracotta Warriors. Each one is individually sculpted from clay, with a different costume, height and facial expression. Overnight train to Beijing. Day 20 Beijing Arrive in Beijing in the morning and visit the Summer Palace, the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Day 21 Great Wall Drive to the Great Wall, where the main section stretches for around 3460 kilometres, with approximately 2860 kilometres of branches and spurs. Day 22 Beijing Morning tour of the Temple of Heaven, a complex of religious buildings from the 15th century. Free afternoon. Day 23 Beijing Today your China adventure ends in Beijing after breakfast (Wed).

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees, Yangtze River cruise. Accommodation 12 nights comfortable hotel, 3 nights cruise boat, 6 nights local guesthouse, 1 night sleeper train. Meals 17 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCCP. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pccp

TRIP DATES Start 2014 08 Apr 06 May 08 Jul 05 Aug

Finish 30 Apr 28 May 30 Jul 27 Aug

Start 2015 14 Apr 12 May 09 Jun

Finish 06 May 03 Jun 01 Jul

CHINA

DAYS

10 Yunnan Explorer Before coming to an end in the East China Sea, the mighty Yangtze River must first pass through the world’s steepest and narrowest canyon – Tiger Leaping Gorge. Stretching for 15-kilometres of almost continuous white water rapids, legend has it that a ferocious tiger leapt the gorge to escape the clutches of a ruthless hunter. ITINERARY Day 1 Kunming (Tue) Arrive in Yunnan’s capital, Kunming, and head to your hotel.

the Old Town. Visit Black Dragon Pool Park or Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Day 2 Kunming – Dali Walking tour of Kunming’s markets and temples. Catch a bus to Dali in the afternoon.

Days 6-7 Tiger Leaping Gorge

Day 3 Dali Explore the town of Dali, then enjoy the option of a chairlift up to Cangshan Mountain or a boat ride on Erhai Lake. Day 4 Lijiang Local bus ride through rambling Bai and Yi hamlets, winding through the mountains and over alpine passes to Lijiang. Day 5 Lijiang Spend free time walking around the cobblestone streets, narrow canals and decorative wooden houses of

Take a private minibus past the upper reaches of the Yangtze River to one of the world’s deepest gorges, Tiger Leaping Gorge, and walk amidst stunning scenery. Day 8 Zhongdian Morning walk, then bus to Tibetan-influenced Zhongdian (Shangri-La). Home to a variety of ethnic minority groups from western China, the town is a fascinating snapshot of the region.

then meet a local Tibetan family to see what local life is like. Day 10 Kunming Return to Kunming by plane, where this Yunnan adventure ends (Thu).

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, internal flight, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel, 6 nights local guesthouse. Meals 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCYE. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcye

Zhongdian

TRIP DATES Lijiang

Start Tiger Leaping Gorge

CHINA Dali

Day 9 Zhongdian Pay the centuries old Sumtseling Monastery a visit,

2014 08 Apr 06 May 10 Jun 08 Jul 05 Aug 09 Sep

Finish 17 Apr 15 May 19 Jun 17 Jul 14 Aug 18 Sep

Start 2015 14 Apr 12 May 09 Jun

Finish 23 Apr 21 May 18 Jun

Kunming

Yunnan Explorer

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DAYS

16 China’s Silk Road Marco Polo was the most determined and influential traveller to navigate the Silk Road. His journey throughout Asia lasted 24 years, and he ventured farther than any of his predecessors. After becoming a confidant of Kublai Khan, he travelled the whole of China and returned to record what he learnt, in a book which kick-started the European age of exploration. ITINERARY Day 1 Beijing (Sun) You’re greeted on arrival and transferred to the hotel. Days 2-3 Beijing – Xian Explore the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall. Overnight train to Xian. Days 4-5 Xian – Lanzhou Stand to attention with the 6000 Terracotta Warriors. Overnight train to Lanzhou. Days 6-7 Lanzhou – Xiahe Bus to Bingling Temple to view the Buddhist caves, then on to Xiahe. Guided tour of Labrang Monastery. Day 8 Lanzhou – Jiayuguan Drive back to Lanzhou for overnight train to Jiayuguan, the traditional final outpost on the edge of the ancient Han Chinese Empire. Day 9 Jiayuguan Visit a Wei-Jin dynasty tomb, the Hanging Wall and Jiayuguan Fort, which marks the end of the Great Wall.

TRIP DETAILS Days 10-11 Dunhuang – Daheyan Travel by bus to the oasis of Dunhuang. Watch sunrise over desert sand dunes and Crescent Moon Lake. Visit Mogao Caves, home to some of the best Buddhist murals in the world. Overnight train to Daheyan. Day 12 Turpan Drive to Turpan and explore the Astana Graves, Gaocheng Ancient City. Then view the Flaming Mountains, Grape Valley and Emin Minaret. Day 13 Turpan – Urumqi Visit the ancient city of Jiaohe. Dating from around 108 BC, this once-busy city was destroyed by Genghis Khan’s Mongol army in the 13th century. Drive to Urumqi. Day 14 Urumqi – Kashgar Visit Heavenly Lake and Urumqi Museum. Fly to Kashgar, the ‘crown jewel’ of the Silk Road.

Day 15 Kashgar Explore Kashgar’s Old Town, Abakh Hoja’s Tomb, Id Kah Mosque and shop for souvenirs at the Sunday market. Day 16 Kashgar Farewell your new friends when your trip ends in Kashgar this morning (Mon). TRIP DATES Start 2014 11 May 08 Jun 06 Jul 07 Sep

Finish 26 May 23 Jun 21 Jul 22 Sep

Finish

2015 10 May 07 Jun

25 May 22 Jun

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcsr

Urumqi Turpan

Kashgar

Dunhuang

Jiayuguan

Beijing

CHINA Xiahe

Lanzhou Xian

China’s Silk Road

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Start

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, internal flights, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights basic hotel, 7 nights comfortable hotel, 4 nights sleeper train. Meals 12 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCSR. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

CHINA & TIBET

DAYS

13 Tibet – Roof of the World Bodhnath Stupa has been an important place of pilgrimage and meditation since the middle of the 5th century. Caravans of salt traders, monks, nuns, lamas and others would stop here to perform protection and prosperity rituals and to this day it is the most popular site for Buddhists in Nepal. The stupa is set on an enormous three-level Mandala dome base, which is adorned with 108 images of Buddha and 147 prayer wheels. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Chengdu (Tue) Meet a Peregrine representative at the airport and travel to the hotel. Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan cuisine, so bring your appetite.

Altitudes Min 529m, Max 5150m. Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, internal flight, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 9 nights comfortable hotel, 3 nights basic hotel. Meals 12 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCTR. Price See inside front cover. Private groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Day 2 Chengdu Get up close to the endangered giant panda at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base outside Chengdu. Day 3 Leshan Travel to Leshan to view the Giant Buddha. Carved out of the cliff face, construction on this statue began in the year 713 AD and took 90 years to complete. Days 4-6 Lhasa Fly to Lhasa, ‘The City in the Clouds’. Tour Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Sera Monastery, followed by a free day to explore on your own. Day 7 Gyantse Travel along the Friendship Highway to Gyantse via Karo La (Pass). Walking tour of this historic town including the Kumbum Stupa, amidst a landscape dominated by a hilltop fortress.

Day 8 Shigatse Drive to Shigatse and in the afternoon explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, established by the first Dalai Lama. Day 9 Shegar Drive to Shegar via Gyatso La (Pass). Stop at the village of Lhaze to enjoy a local-style lunch. Day 10 Everest Base Camp Day trip via Pang La (Pass) (5150m) to Rongphu Monastery, the highest monastery in the world and Everest Base Camp: a chance to stand before the world’s greatest mountain. Day 11 Zhangmu Drive to Zhangmu via Nyalam, through some astonishing Himalayan landscapes. Day 12 Kathmandu Cross the border into Nepal. Drive to Kathmandu. Free time after arrival, we recommend visiting the Hindu Pashupatinath Temple and the Buddhist Bodhnath Stupa. Day 13 Kathmandu Trip ends in Kathmandu this morning (Sun).

TRIP DATES Start 2014 27 May 1 Jul 30 Sep

Finish 8 Jun 13 Jul 12 Oct

Start 2015 14 Apr 12 May

Finish 26 Apr 24 May

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pctr

What to know A good level of fitness is required for this trip given the high altitudes.

CHINA

NEPAL

TIBET (CHINA)

Shigatse Lhasa Shegar Gyantse Everest Kathmandu

Chengdu Leshan

Tibet – Roof of the World

peregrineadventures.com // 53

Japan

& South Korea Incredible hospitality,

amazing cuisine and a mix of

traditional and modern

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Find a Japan of perfect balance Staying overnight at Mount Koya captures what is, for us, the true essence of Japan. Being on this sacred mountain, the centre of Shingon Buddhism, is like stepping back in time. Stay in a shukubo (temple accommodation) alongside Buddhist monks and walk pilgrimage pathways to collect your thoughts. Coming to Kyoto, home of the geiko (geisha), feels as if you have been painted into a traditional Japanese work of art. Although the geiko world remains closed to outsiders, you can still catch glimpses of their white painted faces as they hurry past, tripping along the tiny lanes on high wooden clogs, on their way to entertain in the local teahouses. o Very hot & dry 35+ C Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0oC-15oC

For a country that is constantly pushing forward, the Japanese have an ability to step outside the frenzy of modern life and make time appear to stand still. From the intricate and unchanging CHINA Beijing Shanghai Hong Kong Chengdu Xian Kashgar

ceremonies of the shukubo to elaborately painted Kyoto geisha, from the sacred deer of Todai-ji to the quiet national obsession with Mt Fuji, this is a country that understands the beauty of simplicity and the peace in nature.

Tara Kennaway Regional Product Manager

“Japan is a country where the simplest and purest experiences are wrapped in the greatest complexity. My Japan can be found in an afternoon of quiet meditation at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park or equally enjoying a bowl of Ramen noodles while waiting for the Shinkansen.” A selection of inspired accommodation: Kyoto – Hotel Granvia Tokyo – Hotel Niwa Seoul – IP Boutique Hotel

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Seasonal weather patterns JAPAN Tokyo Hiroshima Kyoto KOREA Seoul Jeju-si CENTRAL ASIA Tehran Ulaanbaatar Bishkek Kashgar Khiva Tashkent Tbilisi Baku Yerevan

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Very hot & dry 35+oC Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0oC-15oC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

South Korea

CHINA Beijing Shanghai Hong Kong Chengdu Xian Kashgar

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Tara Kennaway Few travellers go beyond Seoul, but for those JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Regional Product Manager who do, a country full of surprises awaits. JAPAN Tokyo Our adventure goes up mountains to stay in a Hiroshima “For me South Korea is a surprise packet Kyoto monastery; south to the holiday island of Jeju KOREA full of incredibly hospitable people, Seoul – a volcanic island with swaying palm trees Jeju-si delicious cuisine and pristine natural (not what you had imagined in South Korea, JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC beauty. A real must-do is to stay overnight in CENTRAL ASIA right?); and deep into ancient capitals dotted Tehran a Buddhist temple as it offers a truly serene Ulaanbaatar with temples, pagodas and royal tombs. The Bishkek experience among natural beauty.” frenetic global capital of Seoul stands in relief to Kashgar Khiva a countryside dotted with misty mountains and Tashkent Tbilisi sleepy country villages. Baku Yerevan

peregrineadventures.com // 55

DAYS

12 Japan Revealed Korea Bay

Surrounded by thick forests and mountains, Koya-San is home to over 2000 shrines, temples, towers, stupas and other religious buildings. A couple of hours from Osaka by train, this 3000 feet high religious hub is regarded as one of the three most sacred mountains in all of Japan. Sea of Japan (East Sea)

ITINERARY

Matsumoto

Yellow Sea

Day 1 Kyoto (Sat) Be greeted by your local tour leader at the hotel before dinner at a local restaurant. Japan Revealed

Osaka Hiroshima Miyajima

Day 6 Miyajima An emotional morning at the Atomic Bomb Peace Museum and Peace Memorial Park. Ferry to Miyajima Island and a stay China Sea in a traditional Japanese ryokan.

Day 4 Mount Koya-San Board a train for Koya-San holy mountain, home to many sacred monasteries. Stay overnight in authentic shukubo temple quarters.

Day 5 Hiroshima Ride the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima, stopping along the way to see Himeji Castle.

Day 7 Tsumago Train to the old village of Tsumago where cars are prohibited in the main street and cables run underground to maintain the medieval atmosphere. Spend the night in a family-owned ryokan.

Koya San P a c i fi c Ocean

castle town of Matsumoto then visit Nakamachi. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an optional visit to historic Matsumoto Castle. Day 9 Tokyo Train to Tokyo and perhaps embark on an optional day trip to Mount Fuji and the Hakone region. Days 10-11 Tokyo Full-day sightseeing tour of Tokyo, including a cruise on Sumida River. Optional Kabuki performance, one of Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular performing arts.

Day 8 Matsumoto Morning stroll through Tsumago and an optional P h i l i p p i n e SDay e a 12 Tokyo The trip ends in Tokyo walk to the ancient Magome this morning after breakfast (Wed). outpost. Train to the picturesque

Koya San, Japan Spending the night in a shukubo (temple lodging) is the perfect way to embrace the simple, traditional lifestyle of Buddhist monks. Relax and unwind, dining on vegetarian cuisine and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of the holy Shingon Buddhist mountain of Koya San.

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Tokyo

Kyoto

Days 2-3 Kyoto Visit the Golden Temple, the heavily fortified Nijo Castle and the Ryoan Ji Zen garden. Walk through the Gion geisha district and glimpse made-up geishas and maiko. East

JAPAN

Tsumago

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel, 4 nights ryokan, 1 night shukubo (temple lodging). Meals 3 breakfasts, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCJR. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcjr

TRIP DATES Start 2014 22 Mar 12 Apr 24 May 21 Jun 19 Jul 16 Aug

Finish 02 Apr 23 Apr 04 Jun 02 Jul 30 Jul 27 Aug

Start 20 Sep 25 Oct 2015 21 Mar 18 Apr 16 May 20 Jun

Finish 01 Oct 05 Nov 01 Apr 29 Apr 27 May 01 Jul

Becoming a sushi chef, or itamae, as they’re known in Japan, is no mean feat. An apprentice must work for four to five years under the supervision of a master before they’re considered experienced enough to even prepare the rice. It can take up to 10 years for an apprentice to gain the title of itamae and be placed in front of their own cutting board. ITINERARY

TRIP DATES

TRIP DETAILS

Days 1-3 Tokyo (Sat) This food adventure begins in Tokyo. Visit Shinjuku’s Memory Lane and indulge in yakitori. Soak up the atmosphere of Tsukiji Fish Market, learn to make soba noodles in a cooking class, experience the marvel of a depachika and have monjayaki cooked at your table. Days 4-5 Nikko Explore Nikko – home to some of Japan’s most K o r e a important Bay shrines and temples. Take in the resting place of a Tokugawa shogun, sip local sake, soak in a traditional onsen and indulge in rural Japanese cuisine. Days 6-7 Mount Koya San Koya-san has been the centre of Shingon Buddhism for over 1200 years, and here you can take in mountain views during a stay at a monastery. Try your hand at Zen mediation and

tour the 1000 year-old cemetery and largest rock garden in Japan. Days 8-10 Kyoto Visit Kyoto and delve into the geisha culture, swing by Nishiki Market and set off on a sake brewery tour to learn everything there is to know about this ancient tipple. Days 11-12 Osaka Explore Osaka, known throughout Japan for its delicious cuisine. Cram in as many restaurants and bars as you can handle before checking out some of the nightlife (Wed).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, 3 cooking classes, specialist guides, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights comfortable hotel, 5 nights ryokan, 2 nights shukubo (temple lodging). Meals 11 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCJF. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Start 2014 22 Feb 08 Mar 29 Mar 19 Apr 03 May 17 May 07 Jun 28 Jun 19 Jul 09 Aug 23 Aug 13 Sep

Finish 05 Mar 19 Mar 09 Apr 30 Apr 14 May 28 May 18 Jun 09 Jul 30 Jul 20 Aug 03 Sep 24 Sep

Start 04 Oct 25 Oct 22 Nov 2015 31 Jan 21 Feb 07 Mar 28 Mar 18 Apr 02 May 16 May 06 Jun 27 Jun

Finish 15 Oct 05 Nov 03 Dec 11 Feb 04 Mar 18 Mar 08 Apr 29 Apr 13 May 27 May 17 Jun 08 Jul

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcjf

Culinary

Sea of Japan (East Sea)

Nikko

Yellow Sea

JAPAN

Kyoto Osaka

Tokyo

Koya San

Japan Sushi to Sake

What to know This is a culinary journey, with a focus on exploring the different food and beverages of each region. Please let us know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements.

P a c i fi c Ocean

DAYS

12 South Korea Explored

East China Sea

The volcanic island of Jeju in the Korea Strait is South Korea’s largest and perhaps most stunning island. Amongst other attractions, this 1846 square kilometre World Heritage Site is home to an extensive network of lava tubes, the Cheonjeyeon and Cheonjiyeon waterfalls, and the impressive (and active) Mount Halla. It’s a true slice of South Korean paradise. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Head to the Mask Museum and Day 1 Seoul (Wed) Arrive in Seoul Philippine Sea Buyeongdae to catch a train to and enjoy a private transfer to your Gyenongju, the ancient capital of hotel. the Shilla kingdom. Days 2-3 Seoul A city tour includes

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, internal flights, specialist guides, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 10 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night shukubo (temple lodging). Meals 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCSK. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

TRIP DATES

the National Folk Museum and Namdaemun market, Korea’s oldest working market. Visit the traditional Bukchon Hanok village and the Demilitarized Zone.

Day 8 Gyeongju Guided tour through Gyeongju and its World Heritage listed Seoguram Grotto, Bulguksa Temple and the National Museum.

Day 4 Nakasana Bathe in the hot, soothing Osaek Mineral Springs en route to the historical Nakasana Temple. Overnight stay in a monastery.

Day 9 Busan – Jeju Visit Tongdosa Temple to see the temple candle For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcsk that has been alight for over 1300 years. Visit Busan’s Jagaichi Fish CHINA Market, which is the largest in Korea, NORTH and the Gukje market. Afternoon KOREA flight to Jeju.

TIBET (CHINA) Day 5 Mount Seorak Take the NEPAL scenic drive to Mount Seorak in the Seoraksan National Park.

Day 6 Suaedang Ride to the Buseoka Temple, built in 677, before arriving at your overnight stay in Suaedang. Day 7 Buyeongdae – Gyeongju Visit the Hahoe Folk Village, which runs as it has since the 16th century.

Days 10-11 Jeju – Seoul There’s so much to see and do on this volcanic island – beaches, waterfalls, museums and Manjuggul, one the world’s longest lava made caves. Fly to Seoul in the late afternoon of Day 11. Day 12 Seoul The trip ends in Seoul after breakfast (Sun).

DMZ Seoul

Start 2014 11 Jun 20 Aug 03 Sep

Finish 22 Jun 31 Aug 14 Sep

Start 2015 10 Jun

Finish 21 Jun

Seoraksan National Park Hahoe (Andong)

SOUTH KOREA

Gyeongju Busan

Jeju-si

South Korea Explored

peregrineadventures.com // 57

JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA

DAYS

12 Japan Sushi to Sake

Central Asia Where cities drip with the

stories of conquest, wealth and trade

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Yaks, yurts and Silk Road Stories For a few thousand years, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan were the true epicentres of the world. As the hub of the Silk Road, it was where East quite literally met West. It was here that Alexander the Great staked out his empire’s Western perimeter with a fortress near Nurata. It was here that Genghis Khan and his Mongol horde swept through in the opposite direction. And it was here that Marco Polo rested and provisioned on his way to meet Kublai Khan. o Very hot & dry 35+ C Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0oC-15oC

itinerary was designed by people who’ve been here again and again. This year you can also visit Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan where you can walk to active mud volcanoes, drink wine straight from its clay jar and see monasteries hewn from rock. Travel by road through some of the most spectacular mountain passes on earth, and break freshly baked lavash bread with some of the world’s most hospitable people.

The region’s significant cities, Tashkent, Bishkek and Samarkand, drip with stories of conquest, wealth and trade. The merchant spirit lives on in the bazaars and Sunday markets. Outside the JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC cities,CHINA your leader ensures the manner of travel Beijing isn’t Shanghai Asian, European or Middle Eastern, but Hong Kong very much its own. something Chengdu Xian Kashgar

When you travel through Central Asia with JAN FEB MAR MAYthe JUNinside. JUL AUGYour SEP OCT Peregrine, you’ll see it APR from JAPAN

NOV DEC

Tokyo Hiroshima Kyoto KOREA Seoul Jeju-si

Seasonal weather patterns CENTRAL ASIA Tehran Ulaanbaatar Bishkek Kashgar Khiva Tashkent Tbilisi Baku Yerevan

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

A selection of inspired accommodation: Bukhara – Lyabi House Hotel Urumqi – City Hotel Kashgar – Qinibagh Hotel Tashkent – Hotel Uzbekistan Ulaanbaatar – Narantuul Hotel Baku – Central Park Sheki – Olympic Hotel

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC INDIA Delhi (North India) Kochi (South India) Varanasi SRI LANKA Colombo Galle RegionalNEPAL Product Manager Kathmandu Pokhara Lukla TIBET Lhasa BHUTAN Paro

Tara Kennaway

“The Lyabi Hauz in Bukhara is a plaza built in 1620 around a courtyard and a pool. Shaded by mulberry trees, you can enjoy a green tea on a hot day on your Turkish sunbed and watch the locals play chess. Classic old world charm!”

Tbilisi – Hotel Sharden Yerevan – Ararat Hotel peregrineadventures.com // 59

DAYS

13 Jewels of Uzbekistan Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva; home to desert caravans, ancient fortresses and dazzling bazaars. Persian heritage is embraced in Uzbekistan and untouched examples of centuries-old Byzantine architecture lines streets as proud as it ever has. The might and splendour of Registan Square even rivals the likes of the Taj Mahal. ITINERARY Day 1 Tashkent On arrival in Tashkent be taken to your hotel by private transfer. Day 2 Tashkent Spend the day exploring Tashkent. See the Museum of History, the mosaics of the Barak Khan Medressa and the Kukeldash Medressa, followed by a locals’ tour of the Chorsu Bazaar. Day 3 Khiva Fly to Khiva and tour this World Heritage-listed city. See the Kalta Minor Minaret, Mohammed Rakhim Khan Medressa (once a place of executions), the 17th century Juma Mosque and finally the highest building in Khiva, the Islom-Hoja Minaret. Day 4 Ayaz Qala Drive to the desert camp, Ayaz Qala, your base for visiting the Toprak Qala & Ayaz Qala fortress complexes. Spend the night in yurts.

What to know Days 5-7 Bukhara Drive across the barren Kyzyl Kum desert to Bukhara. With monuments dating from the 8th to 18th century AD, there’s much historic architecture to uncover here. Visit the Ark fortress, Poi Kalon Ensemble and the 9th century Ismail Samani Mausoleum. Days 8-9 Nuratau Mountains Continue via Alexander the Great’s fortress to the ancient town of Nurata. Overnight stay in a homestay village in Nuratau Mountains. You’ll have free time to walk in the countryside. Days 10-11 Samarkand Explore Samarkand and visit Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum, Ulugbek Observatory (once the finest in the Islamic world) and the local bazaar. Days 12-13 Samarkand – Tashkent Travel by road back to Tashkent. Trip ends after breakfast on Day 13.

Venturing well away from cities for two nights and into remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities may be basic but the rewards are immeasurable.

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, internal flights, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night homestay, 7 nights guesthouse, 1 night yurt tent (multishare). Meals 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCJU. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcju

TRIP DATES Start

Finish

2014 08 May 20 May 05 Jun 17 Jun 01 Jul 03 Jul 29 Jul 31 Jul 09 Sep

20 May 01 Jun 17 Jun 29 Jun 13 Jul 15 Jul 10 Aug 12 Aug 21 Sep

Start

Finish

23 Sep 02 Oct 07 Oct 2015 07 May 19 May 04 Jun 16 Jun 30 Jun

05 Oct 14 Oct 19 Oct 19 May 31 May 16 Jun 28 Jun 12 Jul

Lyabi House Hotel, Bukhara, Uzbekistan There is no finer place to experience the warm, hospitable Uzbek culture than in this restored 19th century house. Relax on the traditional ayvan (terrace) or the inner courtyards. Then take a short stroll to shop in the 16th century Silk Road markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. This fantastic location is also near Lyabi Hauz in the old town, a square built around a pool and surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. The perfect place to watch local life unfold.

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UZBEKISTAN Nuratau Mountains Tashkent

Khiva Bukhara

Samarkand

Jewels of Uzbekistan

UZBEKISTAN, KYRGYZSTAN & CHINA

DAYS

14 Kyrgyzstan – Lakes of the Sky At 500,000 lines, the Epic of Manas is one of the longest poems in the world. The 18th century epic tells the story of the migration of the Kyrgyz people under the leadership of Manas, a warrior who united Kyrgyzstan. ITINERARY Day 1 Kashgar (Sat) Arrive in Kashgar to a warm welcome and private transfer to your hotel.

helping to support a community-run initiative, with home-cooked meals and a unique insight into local life.

Day 2 Kashgar Explore the oasis city of Kashgar, the Old Town and Abakh Hoja’s Tomb. Visit the Sunday market and Id Kah Mosque, where up to 20,000 people come to worship every Friday.

Days 8-9 Tamga – Issyk-Kul Lake Walk around Barskoön Gorge. Stay at Tamga village on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake. Travel along the shoreline via Jeti-Öghüz Gorge to Karakol.

Days 3-4 Tash-Rabat Caravansarai In one of the world’s great road trips, cross the Torugart Pass (3752m) to Tash-Rabat Caravansarai. This ancient gateway takes you through spectacular scenery.

Days 10-11 Chong-Kemin Gorge – Bishkek Drive via Cholpon Ata to Chong-Kemin Gorge for an overnight homestay. Continue to the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek.

Days 5-6 Son-Kul Lake Drive to Son-Kul Lake, a spot where nomadic herders make their summer camp. Stay overnight in yurts. Day 7 Kochkor Drive to Kochkor village. Overnight in a village homestay. By staying here you are

TRIP DATES

TRIP DETAILS

Days 12-13 Bishkek – Tashkent Explore Bishkek on a guided tour. Fly to the city of Tashkent. See the Museum of History, the mosaics of the Barak Khan Medressa and the Kukeldash Medressa, followed by a locals’ tour of the Chorsu Bazaar. Day 14 Tashkent Your trip ends in Tashkent this morning (Fri).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, internal flights, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights homestay, 2 nights guesthouse, 4 nights yurt tent (multishare), 2 nights basic hotel. Meals 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 7 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCKL. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Start 2014 24 May 21 Jun 19 Jul 20 Sep

Finish 06 Jun 04 Jul 01 Aug 03 Oct

Start 2015 23 May 20 Jun

Finish 05 Jun 03 Jul

What to know Venturing well away from cities and into remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities may be basic but the rewards are immeasurable.

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pckl

Bishkek Issyk-Kul Lake

KYRGYZSTAN

Son-Kul Lake Torugart Pass

Tashkent

UZBEKISTAN

Kashgar

CHINA

Kyrgyzstan – Lakes of the Sky

peregrineadventures.com // 61

38 Grand Silk Explorer DAYS

TRIP DETAILS

For centuries, travellers in the pursuit of trade and knowledge have crossed the deserts of western China. They’ve scaled mountain passes of Kyrgyzstan and marvelled at turquoisedomed architecture of Uzbekistan. From bustling Beijing to the sleepier Uzbek capital of Tashkent, travel in the footsteps of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. ITINERARY Day 1 Beijing (Sun) Arrive in Beijing and be taken you to your hotel.

the 13th century. Drive to Urumqi then fly to Kashgar.

overnight homestay. Continue to the Kyrgyzstan capital, Bishkek.

Days 2-3 Beijing – Xian See the sights of Beijing, including the near 10,000 room Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall. Overnight train to Xian.

Day 15 Kashgar Explore the oasis city of Kashgar, home of the Muslim Uyghur people. Visit the Old Town, Abakh Hoja’s Tomb and the immense Id Kah Mosque.

Days 4-5 Xian – Lanzhou Emperor Qii Shi Huang built his Terracotta Soldiers to accompany him to the afterlife. Though he went, his statue-warriors remain frozen in time. Overnight train to Lanzhou.

Days 16-17 Tash-Rabat Caravansarai The ultimate roadtrip, crossing the ancient gateway of Torugart Pass (3752m) to TashRabat Caravansarai.

Days 25-27 Bishkek – Tashkent Explore Bishkek on a guided tour. Then to the Uzbekistan capital Tashkent. Get the inside view on the Museum of History, the intricate mosaics of the Barak Khan Medressa and the Kukeldash Medressa, followed by a tour of Chorsu Bazaar.

Days 6-7 Lanzhou – Xiahe Bus to Bingling Temple to explore carved Buddhist caves. Travel to Xiahe for a tour of Labrang Monastery, the most important outside of Tibet. Days 8-9 Lanzhou – Jiayuguan Drive back to Lanzhou for overnight train to Jiayuguan, the farthest outpost of the Han Chinese Empire. Citizens who lost favour were banished west of here, never to return. Days 10-11 Dunhuang – Daheyan Travel by bus to the oasis of Dunhuang. Watch sunrise over desert sand dunes and Crescent Moon Lake. Visit the Mogao Caves, home to some of the best Buddhist murals in the world. Overnight train to Daheyan. Day 12 Turpan Drive to Turpan and explore the Astana Graves, Gaocheng Ancient City in the sand, Flaming Mountains, Grape Valley and Emin Minaret, the tallest minaret in China. Days 13-14 Turpan – Urumqi – Kashgar Visit the ancient city of Jiaohe. Dating from around 108 BC, this once-busy city was destroyed by Genghis Khan’s Mongol army in

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Days 18-19 Son-Kul Lake Drive to remote Son-Kul Lake, a summer settlement for nomadic herders. Stay in yurts provided by the herders themselves. Day 20 Kochkor Drive to Kochkor village. Overnight in village homestay, supporting a communityrun initiative. Enjoy home cooked meals and an insight into local life. Days 21-22 Tamga village – IssykKul Lake Walk through Barskoön Gorge. Stay at Tamga village on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake. Travel around the lake via Jeti-Öghüz Gorge to the old Soviet outpost of Karakol. Days 23-24 Chong-Kemin – Bishkek Drive through Cholpon Ata to Chong-Kemin Gorge and

Bishkek

UZBEKISTAN Khiva Bukhara Nuratau Mountains

Days 28-29 Khiva – Ayaz Qala Fly to Khiva. Explore the Kalta Minor Minaret, the Islom-Hoja Minaret and Medressa (built in 1908 and the highest structure in Khiva). Drive to Ayaz Qala, your base for visiting the Toprak Qala and Ayaz Qala fortress complexes. Tonight, sleep once more in yurts. Days 30-32 Kyzyl Kum desert – Bukhara Drive across the Kyzyl Kum desert to Bukhara – a key point on the Silk Road, and inhabited for at least 5 millenia. Visit the Ark fortress, Poi Kalon Ensemble and the 9th century Ismail Samani Mausoleum. Days 33-34 Nuratau Mountains Continue via Alexander the Great’s fortress to Nurata. Overnight at a village in Nuratau Mountains. Optional short walks in the countryside.

Altitudes Max 3752m. Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, internal flights, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights basic hotel, 12 nights comfortable hotel, 3 nights homestay, 9 nights guesthouse, 4 nights sleeper train, 5 nights yurt tent (multishare). Meals 34 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 10 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCGS. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcgs

TRIP DATES Start 2014 11 May 08 Jun 06 Jul 07 Sep

Finish 17 Jun 15 Jul 12 Aug 14 Oct

Start

Finish

2015 10 May 07 Jun

16 Jun 14 Jul

What to know Venturing well away from cities and remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities may be basic but the rewards are immeasurable. A good level of fitness is required for this trip given the high altitudes.

Days 35-36 Samarkand Explore Samarkand, a city that evokes the romance of the Silk Road perhaps more than any other. Visit Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum, Ulugbek Observatory and the local bazaar. Days 37-38 Tashkent Return to Tashkent, where your trip ends the following morning (Tue).

Urumqi Issyk-Kul Lake

KYRGYZSTAN Son-Kul Lake Torugart Pass Tashkent Kashgar Samarkand

Turpan

Dunhuang

Jiayuguan

Beijing

CHINA Xiahe

Lanzhou Xian

Grand Silk Explorer

MULTI-COUNTRY

DAYS

Mongolian Yak Safari & Naadam Festival

During Naadam Festival, ancient medieval games survive as part of the living cultural heritage. Held throughout the month of July, Mongolian men compete in the country’s three most popular activities: wrestling, horse racing and archery. The roots of this festival can be traced back to Central Asian nomadic tribes such as the Huns, Scythians and Turks. ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1 Ulaanbaatar (Sun) Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and be transferred to your hotel.

Days 8-11 Yak Trek Load your gear onto yak carts and head off on a yak trek. Stay in ger camps each night.

Day 2 Ikh Nart Nature Reserve Trans-Mongolian train to Shivee Gobi in Gobi Desert. Drive to your traditional ger camp at Ikh Nart Nature Reserve. Gers are nomadic Mongolian homes, as portable as any tent.

Day 12 Ulaanbaatar Return to Ulaanbaatar. Optional folk music performance. Witness the traditional ‘throat singing’ that Mongolia is famous for.

Day 3 Ikh Nart Nature Reserve Explore the reserve on foot and discover a mix of arid Gobi steppe, rock formations and crevasses. Optional activities include traditional crafts and learning the basics of Mongolian wrestling. Day 4 Ulaanbaatar Drive back to Ulaanbaatar for a free afternoon. It’s worth visiting the Museum of Natural History and the Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan. Days 5-7 Jalman Meadows Visit Gandan Monastery, drive to forests of upper Tuul River Valley. Spend time with local herders and learn how to construct a ger, fish by traditional methods, ride mountain bikes or read up on local history in a ‘library ger’.

Day 13 Rural Naadam festival Travel to one of the communities just outside of Ulaanbaatar and experience a rural Naadam Festival. Learn all about wrestling and horse racing. Day 14 Naadam Festival – Ulaanbaatar In the morning Naadam is officially opened by the President of Mongolia. Watch the wrestling and archery competitions then head out to the steppe areas on the fringes of the city (Hui Doloon Hudag) to view the third of the three events – horse racing. Day 15 Ulaanbaatar Your adventure comes to an end in Ulaanbaatar this morning (Sat).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 5 nights comfortable hotel, 5 nights ger tent (4-share), 4 nights camping. Meals 14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 11 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCYSN/PCYS. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcysn www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcys

Ulaanbaatar

Khan Khentii

MONGOLIA Ikh Nart

Mongolian Yak Safari

TRIP DATES Start 2014 *01 Jun 28 Jun

Finish 14 Jun 12 Jul

Start 2015 *01 Jun 28 Jun

Finish 14 Jun 12 Jul

What to know A good level of general fitness is required. You will trek on hilly terrain, generally on well-defined paths. Venturing well away from cities and remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities may be basic but the rewards are immeasurable. *01 June departure does not include Naadam Festival, see website for alternative itinerary (PCYS).

peregrineadventures.com // 63

New

DAYS

17 Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia “The mountains sing. Their hoary peaks, in their snow-white fur hats, carry on a conversation among themselves. They are laconic witnesses of time long past. Even the stones here speak. The Caucasus – this lovely territory, with its ancient culture, rich history, that has, from time immemorial, drawn the attention of thinkers, historians, students of local lore, travellers to it, like a magnet.” Oleg Shamba. ITINERARY Day 1 Baku (Sat) You are met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Day 2 Absheron Peninsula – Baku Tour Baku’s Old City and continue to the Absheron Peninsula to visit Ateshgah Fire Temple, Mardakan medieval fortress and Yanar Dag Fire Mountain. Return to Baku. Day 3 Qobustan – Baku Drive past formations of old oil rigs and see ancient rock carvings at the Qobustan Petroglyph Reserve. Day 4 Sheki Drive northwest and see active mud volcanoes before continuing towards the Caucasus Mountains. Visit the Diri Baba shrine in Maraza, the Yeddi Gumbez Tomb and Juma Mosque in Shemakha along the way. Stop at Sheki, home of famous ‘shebeke’ stained-glass artwork, and visit Sheki Khan’s Palace. Day 5 Azerbaijan-Georgia Border (Lagodekhi) – Tbilisi Visit a traditional bazaar, then drive to Georgia. Stop for a local village lunch and sample Georgian wine from clay jars in a historic wine cellar, before continuing to the capital, Tbilisi. Day 6 Tbilisi Wander the narrow streets of the Old Town, viewing churches, synagogues, mosques, and 19th century houses with wooden, multi-coloured balconies. Stop at the sulphur baths, visit the

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Georgian National Museum and stroll along Rustaveli Avenue – the main street. Day 7 Mtskheta – Gudauri Head to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia. Visit the 6th century Jvari Church and the 11th century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where the robe of Jesus Christ is reportedly buried. Drive up the Georgian Military Highway. Day 8 Kazbegi – Gudauri Drive along the Tergi River to Kazbegi and a two-hour walk through valleys and woodlands to Gergeti Trinity Church. Day 9 Gori – Kutaisi Visit the town of Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin, and the 3000-year-old Uplistsikhe cave city – one of the most ancient relics of the Silk Road. Drive to Imereti province (West Georgia) and visit Kutaisi. Day 10 Kutaisi – Akhaltsikhe Take in the historical sites of Kutaisi before continuing to Akhaltsikhe and visiting the multicultural complex of Rabat Castle. Day 11 Vardzia Cave Town – Georgia-Armenia Border (Bavra) – Gyumri Stop at the 11th century Khertvisi Fortress then continue to the 12th century cave town of Vardzia, stretching half a kilometre along the Mtkvari River with a church hewn out of the rocks. Continue to Gyumri.

Day 12 Gyumri – Mastara – Talin – Yerevan City tour around Gyumri and visit ancient churches at Mastara and Talin, before continuing on to the Armenian capital – Yerevan. Day 13 Etchmiatsin – Zvartnots Stop by the Mother Armenia Monument, then visit the St Hripsime Church, considered to be one of the ‘seven wonders’ of Armenia, and Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Day 14 Khor Virap – Noravank Drive to Khor-Virap Monastery, set against the backdrop of Mount Ararat – the resting place for Noah’s Ark. Continue to Noravank Monastery and visit Areni Winery to sample the local wines. Day 15 Ashtarak – Fortress of Amberd – Saghmossavank As the first Christian nation, Armenia is home to countless ancient churches and monasteries. Visit the Church of Karmravour (7th century) in Ashtarak. Drive to the Fortress of Amberd, located halfway up a rocky cape. Day 16 Garni – Geghard – Matenadaran Drive to a monument of medieval Armenian architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Geghard Monastery. See the Armenian national bread known as ‘lavash’ being baked and food barbecued in the underground stove known as a ‘tonir’.

Day 17 Yerevan Farewell your new friends when your journey ends in Yerevan this morning (Mon).

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leaders, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 16 nights hotel. Meals 16 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCAG. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcag

TRIP DATES Start 2014 07 Jun 14 Sep

Finish

Start 2015 07 Jun

23 Jun 30 Sep

GEORGIA Black S e a Kutaisi

Akhaltsikhe Gyumri Yerevan

Gudauri Tbilisi

ARMENIA

Finish 23 Jun

Caspian Sea

Sheki Baku

AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia

ARMENIA, AZERBIJAN, GEORGIA & IRAN

DAYS

16 Ancient Persia in Depth Luxury is not just a lifestyle here; it’s part of the culture. Items like pistachios, caviar, saffron and poetry are woven into the fabric of Iran to produce a tapestry as extravagant as any Persian rug you might find in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar. ITINERARY Day 1 Tehran (Sat) You’re greeted on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Day 2 Tehran Full-day tour of Tehran including the Sa’d Abad Palace and Museum complex. This 104-hectare park houses over 10 buildings, most of them museums. Day 3 Hamadan Drive to Hamadan. Visit the tomb of Bu Ali Sina (Avicenna), a philosopher, physicist and poet widely considered to be one of the founders of modern medicine. Day 4 Kermanshah Continue to Kermanshah visiting Anahita Temple en route. Stop off at Bisotun, a UNESCO-protected cliff area with bas-relief carvings and inscriptions. Days 5-6 Ahvaz – Shiraz Travel to Shush and visit the pilgrimage site at the Tomb of Daniel before continuing to the UNESCO World Heritage site at Choqa Zanbil. Overnight in Ahvaz and continue to Shiraz.

TRIP DETAILS Day 7 Persepolis – Pasargadae Morning excursion to the remains of Persepolis, one-time centre of the Persian Empire and one of the great cities of the ancient world. After lunch visit Pasargadae, another ancient city that preceded Persepolis. Day 8 Shiraz City tour of Shiraz including Eram Palace, Shah Cheraq and Hafez tomb. Explore the local bazaar and free time to relax or further discover the sights. Day 9 Abarqu – Yazd On the drive to Yazd visit the 4000-year-old cypress tree at Abarqu, thought to be the oldest in the world. Tour of Yazd including the mosque, old city, Fire Temple and Zoroastrian Towers of Silence. Day 10 Esfahan Visit Na’in en route to Esfahan. Evening excursion to the famous Zayandeh River bridges. Day 11 Esfahan Tour of Esfahan including Vank Cathedral, Imam Square and Chehel Suton Palace. Browse for fabrics, spices, jewellery and other treasures at the bazaar.

Day 12 Esfahan Continue sightseeing with visit to Jameh Mosque and Shaking Minarets. Free afternoon to relax. Tucked away near the bazaar is a lovely teahouse – the perfect place to rest tired feet and refresh your spirit with tea. Day 13 Abyaneh Drive to the mountain village of Abyaneh visiting Natanz en route. Stay in a small, family-run hotel in the countryside. Day 14 Kashan – Tehran Continue to Kashan for a visit to Fin Garden. Return to Tehran via Qom, with a brief stop to view the Imam Khomeini Mausoleum. Day 15 Tehran Half-day sightseeing tour in Tehran including the National Museum. Free time in the afternoon. Day 16 Tehran Your tour ends in Tehran after breakfast (Sun).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 15 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 15 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PGAP. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pgap

Tehran

Hamadan Kermanshah

Abyaneh Kashan

IRAN

Esfahan

Ahvaz Yazd

TRIP DATES Start 2014 05 Apr 26 Apr 17 May 30 Aug 20 Sep

Finish 20 Apr 11 May 01 Jun 14 Sep 05 Oct

Start 11 Oct 2015 04 Apr 25 Apr 16 May

Finish 26 Oct 19 Apr 10 May 31 May

Persepolis Persian Gulf

Shiraz

Ancient Persia in Depth

peregrineadventures.com // 65

India

& Sri Lanka ... thrilling, enthralling,

confronting and

confounding.

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Steve Wroe General Manager, Peregrine

“For me, no trip to India is complete without a cup of chai from a roadside stall. It doesn’t matter which stall, or which city: they’re all good. Ginger, cardamom, cinnamon and star anise – this is the smell and taste of India.”

India in full colour We’ve been going to India since 1978, and we’re yet to experience two trips that are even remotely the same. Even Rani, one of our local leaders, is still surprised by what his country has to offer. “You’ve got the big cities with fantastic palaces and forts and then you go into the rural areas where people are still living the way they’ve lived for centuries. There’s such a huge diversity.”

You don’t spend 36 years travelling to a place without making a few friends along the way. For example, in Jaisalmer you can share a meal with a Brahmin family who has lived in the area for over 50 years. Learn the secrets of Indian cooking from Mrs Vyas and see how such a big family can live harmoniously under one roof. It’s an incredible insight into the importance of family in Indian culture. Most of our travel is in private vehicles, but what would a trip to India be without a few legs on the famous rail network. From the bustle of the Delhi or Bikaner stations to the chaiseller’s welcome cry down the aisle, this is your chance to meet the locals and see the Indian countryside. Thrilling, enthralling, confronting, confounding and never, ever dull. Come with us and see India in all its colours.

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC

Seasonal weather patterns INDIA Delhi (North India) Kochi (South India) Varanasi SRI LANKA Colombo Galle NEPAL Kathmandu Pokhara Lukla TIBET Lhasa BHUTAN Paro

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is once again opening itself up to the world. Become part of this next chapter, and step inside a beautiful fusion of ancient indigenous tradition and colonial culture. Palm-fringed beaches skirt an emerald isle of high tea plantations, uncommon hospitality and ancient Buddhist pilgrim trails.

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC INDIA Delhi (North India) Kochi (South India) Varanasi SRI LANKA Colombo Galle NEPAL Kathmandu Pokhara Lukla TIBET Lhasa BHUTAN Paro

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

A selection of inspired accommodation: Delhi – Hotel Florence or Florence Inn Agra – Hotel Utkarsh Vilas Jaipur – Mahal Khandela Udaipur – Hotel Swaroop Vilas Colombo – Hotel Sapphire peregrineadventures.com // 67

DAYS

Rajasthan Revealed – Tour Leader’s Special KAZAKHSTAN

UZBEKISTAN

This trip was designed by our senior local leaders as part of a team-building exercise, and it was so KYRGYZSTAN good that we decided to make it a reality. It’s an insider’s tour of Rajasthan, filled with fairytale palaces, peaceful villages, amazing wildlife and beautiful scenery.TURKMENISTAN ITINERARY

TRIP DETAILS TAJIKISTAN Day 5 Bijaipur Visit Chittorgarh Fort, then stay overnight at the 16th century Castle Bijaipur. Day 6 Udaipur Take it easy this morning in Bijaipur, then travel by road to Udaipur.

Day 1 Delhi (Sat) Arrive in Delhi, meet your Peregrine representative and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Agra Travel by road to Agra. Visit Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal. Day 3 Karauli Discover the fortified ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri en route to Karauli. Visit the 600-year-old fort and stay in a Rajput palace. Day 4 Bundi Continue to historic Bundi – a place of inspiration for Rudyard Kipling.

Day 7 Udaipur Explore one of Rajasthan’s largest and most romantic towns, including stops at City Palace and Jagdish Temple. IRAN

includes the preservation of animal and vegetable life. Day 11 Sawarda Continue to Sawarda and explore the fort, temples and local village. Join an evening prayer session in the family temple. AFGHANISTAN Day 12 Jaipur A short drive to Jaipur where you will visit the 16th century Amber Fort and City Palace.

Day 8 Khairwa Spend a night in Khairwa – and an elegant 500-yearold fort-palace.

Day 13 Sariska Travel to Sariska National Park, in search of exotic wildlife on a jeep safari.

Day 9 Jodhpur Drive to the Blue City of Jodhpur and visit the setting for Kipling’s The Jungle Book, Meherangarh Fort.

PAKISTAN Day 14 Delhi Travel back to Delhi. Get your bearings in India’s capital city with visits to the must-see sites, including India Gate and Janpath Bazaar.

Day 10 Jodhpur Jeep safari to Bishnois and Meghwas villages. The Bishnois are centuries-old conservationists whose religion

Day 15 Delhi Bid farewell to your new friends as your trip ends in Delhi this morning (Sat).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights historic hotel, 4 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night luxury tented camp, 1 night comfortable lodge. Meals 14 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PIRR. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pirr

Delhi Jaipur Sawarda Jodhpur

Sariska

Karauli

Bijaipur

Khairwa

Agra

Bundi

Udaipur

INDIA

Rajasthan Revealed Tour Leader’s Special

Dera Khairwa, India Sleep like a king, literally, in this 15th century fortified palace. This unique, family-run hotel is owned by descendants of the royal family. They also reside here, so you can share meals together and see what it would have felt like to be part of India’s former ruling class. Set in a charming village, Dera Khairwa is a remarkable example of Mughal-Rajput period architecture. The rooms are beautifully appointed and you’ll enjoy relaxing among the courtyards and swimming pool. This intimate, personal experience will help immerse you in the culture while enjoying a touch of royal pampering at the same time.

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TRIP DATES Start 2014 04 Jan 01 Feb 01 Mar 29 Mar 26 Apr 24 May 13 Sep 11 Oct

Finish

Start

Finish

18 Jan 15 Feb 15 Mar 12 Apr 10 May 07 Jun 27 Sep 25 Oct

08 Nov 06 Dec 2015 03 Jan 31 Jan 28 Feb 28 Mar 25 Apr 23 May

22 Nov 20 Dec 17 Jan 14 Feb 14 Mar 11 Apr 09 May 06 Jun

INDIA

DAYS

Memories of the Maharaja

There are many myths surrounding the Taj Mahal. One suggests that its creator, Shah Jahan, wanted to build an identical black marble structure on the opposite bank of the river UZBEKISTAN Yamuna. This would be his own tomb, connected to the original structure by a bridge. But a war with his sons interrupted these plans and his dream was never realised. TURKMENISTAN

ITINERARY

Day 2 Agra Travel by road to Agra. Visit Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal.

Days 8-10 Jaisalmer Experience one of the highlights of this adventure on a camel safari (approx. 2.5 hours) to the pristine sand dunes of the Thar Desert. Spend a night camping under the star.

Days 3-4 Jaipur Leave early and drive to Jaipur via the deserted Mughal kingdom of Fatehpur Sikri.

Day 11 Jodhpur Ride across the desert to Rajasthan’s second-largest AFGHANISTAN city, the busy and chaotic Jodhpur.

Day 1 Delhi (Mon) Namaste! Welcome to India. Meet your Peregrine representative and transfer to your hotel.

Days 12-13 Udaipur Join the famous Days 5-6 Mandawa A remote town IRANSpice Box cooking school and spend in the centre of the Shekhawati a half day learning the secrets of region, Mandawa was a trading Indian cuisine. With lessons on outpost for the ancient caravan routes that stopped here from China preparation and cooking, you’ll be PAKISTAN able to whip up a full Indian meal in and the Middle East. no time. Day 7 Bikaner Once an important staging post on the great caravan routes, Bikaner still contains many bazaars within its walls, as well as a fort and palace.

Days 14-15 Delhi There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart at any time (Mon).

KAZAKHSTAN

TRIP DETAILS

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist localKYRGYZSTAN guides, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 6 nights historic hotel, 7 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night camping. TAJIKISTAN Meals 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PIMM. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pimm

TRIP DATES Departs every Monday Jan-Apr and Aug-Dec monthly in May and Sept. Other departures available, see web for details.

Bikaner Camel Safari Jaisalmer

Delhi Shekhawati Jaipur

Jodhpur

Udaipur

Agra

INDIA

Memories of the Maharaja

DAYS

12 The Spirit of India

KAZAKHSTAN

In India, hair is commonly thought of as a symbol of vanity. When a Hindu pilgrim arrives TRIP DETAILS UZBEKISTAN at a holy place, such as the sacred Ganges, the ritual of mundana (head shaving) is carried KYRGYZSTAN Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, out in order for a pilgrim to gain the full benefit of their journey. The act of shaving the head, transport, internal flights, sightseeing which is observed by both men and women,TURKMENISTAN symbolises humility and absolute surrender. and entrance fees. ITINERARY Days 1-2 Delhi You’re met by a Peregrine representative on arrival in Delhi and privately transferred to your hotel. Days 3-4 Jaipur Travel by express train into the state of Rajasthan and continue on to its capital, Jaipur (approx 5 hours). Day 5 Agra Travelling by private vehicles, the journey to Agra takes you across the plains of Rajasthan and into the state of Uttar Pradesh. Days 6-7 Orchha After arriving in Jhansi, travel by auto rickshaw across a classic rural landscape to the picturesque town of Orchha. Here, you will experience a very different side of India. Day 8 Khajuraho Far from any major population centres, Khajuraho’s remote location saved its 1000-year-old temples

TAJIKISTAN

– infamous for carvings depicting the entire Kama Sutra – from destruction by foreign invaders. Days 9-10 Varanasi The ultimate destination for all Hindu pilgrims, Varanasi is full of temples, shrines and devotees.

Days 11-12 Delhi You have a free morning in Varanasi to wander the ghats and do some last-minute shopping in one of the city’s colourful bazaars, before a short flight to Delhi. You are free to depart at any time on the final day.

AFGHANISTAN

Accommodation 4 nights historic hotel, 7 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PISI. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pisi

TRIP DATES

IRAN

Departs every Tuesday, except May-Aug when it departs monthly. Other departures available, see web for details.

PAKISTAN Delhi Agra Jaipur

INDIA

Orchha

Varanasi

Khajuraho

The Spirit of India

peregrineadventures.com // 69

KAZAKHSTAN UZBEKISTAN

New

KYRGYZSTAN

7 Jewels of India DAYS

TURKMENISTAN

TAJIKISTAN

When Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631, the king didn’t just grieve for his love. He built the Taj Mahal in her memory. It took 22 years, more than 20,000 workers and 32 crore rupees to build. The monument, which entombs the pair, is now one of the most iconic sights in the world. ITINERARY

TRIP DATES Start Finish AFGHANISTAN

Day 1 Delhi (Sat) Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Dadhikar Travel by train to Dadhikar. Visit the Dadhikar Fort. Day 3 Jaipur Drive to the Pink City TURKMENISTAN of Jaipur. The rest of the day is free to explore or shop the bazaars. Day 4 Jaipur Morning climb to Amber Fort. Then visit Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), City Palace and Jantar Mantar.

2014

KAZAKHSTAN 04 Jan 10 Jan

11 Jan 17 Jan IRAN 01 Feb 07 Feb UZBEKISTAN 22 Feb 28 Feb KYRGYZSTAN 15 Mar 21 Mar 05 Apr 11 Apr 19 Apr 25 Apr Day 5 Agra Travel by road to Agra. 17 May 23 May PAKISTAN 14 Jun 20 Jun Visit the majestic Taj Mahal. 12 Jul 18 Jul 09 Aug 15 Aug Day 6 Delhi Visit Agra Fort. TAJIKISTAN 06 Sep 12 Sep Overnight train to Delhi. 27 Sep 03 Oct 18 Oct 24 Oct Day 7 Delhi Arrive back into Delhi

Start

Finish

01 Nov 15 Nov 29 Nov 13 Dec 27 Dec 2015 10 Jan 24 Jan 07 Feb 28 Feb 21 Mar 11 Apr 25 Apr 09 May 13 Jun

07 Nov 21 Nov 05 Dec 19 Dec 02 Jan 16 Jan 30 Jan 13 Feb 06 Mar 27 Mar 17 Apr 01 May 15 May 19 Jun

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 5 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train. Meals 5 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PIDJ. Price See inside front cover. For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pidj

NEPAL

Delhi

INDIA Dadhikar

Agra

Jaipur

where your trip ends (Fri). Jewels of India CHINA

DAYS

15 Essence of South India AFGHANISTAN

Stretching across some 900 kilometres, the Kerala backwaters are a tangle of lakes, rivers, inlets and canals. Locals who IRAN from fishing and agriculture go about their daily work without fuss, while travellers cruise the waterways make their living and spend time on the shore; observing, admiring and unwinding. ITINERARY Days 1-2 Chennai (Sat) Arrive in Chennai and be transferred to your hotel. Perhaps visit the Government Museum or discover the streets, temples and markets. Day 3 Mamallapuram Leave the city behind for the beaches of Mamallapuram (approx 2 hours). Visit the famous Shore Temple, inspect the mandapams (carved pillars in front of temples). Day 4 Puducherry (Pondicherry) Head to Puducherry – an experiment in international living. Puducherry has a distinct French feel while retaining its Indian roots, making it one of India’s more surprising cities. Days 5-6 Madurai Board an afternoon train to Madurai (approx 6 hours). Wander the bazaars and the tailors’ market, visit the Sri

TRIP DETAILS

PAKISTAN

Meenakshi Temple and the National Gandhi Museum. Days 7-8 Periyar Drive through pineapple and rubber plantations to Periyar (approx 4 hours). Visit the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, and enjoy an evening tour around a local spice plantation. Venture into the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary for a guided nature walk and wildlife spotting. Days 9-10 Munnar Travel to Munnar, an old British hill station. Drive to the nearby tea garden and, depending on timing, visit the tea museum. Head out to Mattupetti Dam – famous for the Indo-Swiss livestock project. Days 11-12 Kochi Drive to Kochi (approx 2 hours). Explore the major sights of Fort Cochin, visit the

spice bazaars and antique shops, and be part of a Kathakali dance performance. Take an excursion to Vypeen Island, visit the Dutch Palace and catch ferries to take in the surrounds. Day 12 Alleppey Drive towards the backwaters of Kerala (approx 3 hours) and take a leisurely pole boat ride around the lake. Walk through nearby villages and experience an ayurvedic massage. Days 14-15 Kovalam Board an afternoon train for the journey to Trivandrum (approx 4 hours), then drive to Kovalam (approx 1 hour). See Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, visit Anchuthengu Fort and enjoy free time on your final day (Sat).

INDIA

Chennai

Mamallapuram Puducherry Kochi Alleppey/ Kerala Backwaters

Munnar Madurai Periyar National Park Trivandrum/ Kovalam Beach

SRI LANKA

Essence of South India

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Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, BHUTAN transport including train, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 13 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night heritage house. Meals 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PIES. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book thisBANGLADESH trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pies

TRIP DATES Start 2014 04 Jan 11 Jan 18 Jan 25 Jan 01 Feb 01 Mar 15 Mar 12 Apr 19 Apr 20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct 01 Nov 08 Nov 15 Nov

Finish 18 Jan 25 Jan 01 Feb 08 Feb 15 Feb 15 Mar 29 Mar 26 Apr 03 May 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct 01 Nov 08 Nov 15 Nov 22 Nov 29 Nov

Start 22 Nov 29 Nov 06 Dec 13 Dec 20 Dec 27 Dec 2015 03 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 31 Jan 07 Feb 14 Feb 21 Feb 07 Mar 14 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr

SRI LANKA Finish 06 Dec 13 Dec 20 Dec 27 Dec 03 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 24 Jan 31 Jan 14 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 18 Apr 25 Apr

INDIA

KAZAKHSTAN UZBEKISTAN

KYRGYZSTAN

TURKMENISTAN

TAJIKISTAN

AFGHANISTAN IRAN

DAYS

26 Colours of India PAKISTAN

“Coming to India, you’ll learn exactly what hospitality means. The whole world is very modern, but coming to India is a way of returning to traditions. I’m very proud to be Indian, and especially proud to come from Rajasthan, the colourful Rajasthan, the glorious Rajasthan, land of the Kings. I love introducing people to my country. Hospitality is in our blood which makes us very efficient and professional tour leaders.” Rani, Peregrine local leader.

Delhi Agra Jaipur Orchha Khajuraho

ITINERARY Days 1-2 Delhi (Tue) You will be met on arrival in Delhi and privately transferred to your hotel. Days 3-4 Jaipur Take the express train to Jaipur, capital of the state of Rajasthan. Day 5 Agra You’ll spend today travelling in comfortable private vehicles, heading across the Rajasthani plains and into Uttar Pradesh. Days 6-7 Orchha Expect a welcome change of pace today as you climb into an auto rickshaw to discover the classic rural landscape of Orchha. Day 8 Khajuraho The 1000-year-old temples of Khajuraho were saved from destruction due to its remote location. Take time to explore them today. Days 9-10 Varanasi Visit the many temples and shrines of Varanasi, the ultimate destination for the world’s Hindu pilgrims. Day 11 Delhi A free morning to wander the ghats and do some last-minute shopping, before a short flight to Delhi. Days 12-13 Chennai Chennai is India’s fourth largest city. The site of the East India Company’s first settlement, it is full of historic buildings such as Fort St George.

Varanasi

Day 14 Mamallapuram Watch fishermen at work in the village of Mamallapuram. Visit Shore Temple and marvel at its numerous mandapams (intricately carved pillars). Day 15 Puducherry (Pondicherry) Travel to Puducherry and relish the charming French atmosphere. Visit local temples, Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the French Quarter on a walking tour. Days 16-17 Madurai Wander through the bazaars and ancient temple complexes of Madurai. Witness rituals within the shrines of historic Sri Meenakshi Temple. Days 18-19 Periyar Periyar is an area of Kerala famed for its spice plantations and wildlife sanctuary, which is home to tigers and elephants. Days 20-21 Munnar Tea plantations, pristine valleys, winding lanes and villages make Munnar a pleasure to visit. Days 22-23 Kochi View the murals of Mattancherry Palace and enjoy a traditional Keralan dance performance. Day 24 Alleppey With numerous canals linking the countryside, life in Alleppey centres around the water.

Days 25-26 Kovalam With three lovely beaches, Kovalam is a slice of Indian paradise with coconut trees swaying in the breeze and water lapping the shores (Sat). INDIA

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 5 nights historic hotel, 20 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 25 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PICC. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/picc

2014 07 Jan 14 Jan 21 Jan 28 Jan 11 Feb 18 Feb 04 Mar 01 Apr 08 Apr 09 Sep 16 Sep 23 Sep 30 Sep 07 Oct 14 Oct

Periyar Puducherry National Park Kochi

Munnar

Madurai Alleppey/Kerala Backwaters

TRIP DATES Start

Chennai Mamallapuram

Finish

Start

Finish

01 Feb 08 Feb 15 Feb 22 Feb 08 Mar 15 Mar 29 Mar 26 Apr 03 May 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct 01 Nov 08 Nov

28 Oct 04 Nov 11 Nov 25 Nov 02 Dec 09 Dec 16 Dec 2015 06 Jan 20 Jan 27 Jan 03 Feb 10 Feb 24 Feb 03 Mar 24 Mar

22 Nov 29 Nov 06 Dec 20 Dec 27 Dec 03 Jan 10 Jan

Trivandrum/ Kovalam Beach

Colours of India

SRI LANKA

31 Jan 14 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 18 Apr

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PAKISTAN

DAYS

12 Secrets of Sri Lanka Walk through Colombo and you’ll hear the distinct “rat-a-tat” sound of streetside chefs preparing kottu, an iconic INDIA Sri Lankan dish. A mixture of shredded roti, vegetables, egg and cheese are pulverized on a flat stovetop using two metal blades. As they chop, the chefs create a unique musical rhythm – with very tasty results. ITINERARY

TRIP DATES

Day 1 Colombo – Katunayake (Sun) Arrive at Colombo airport and drive to Katunayake.

to Sigiriya Citadel, a rock that’s also a hill that’s also a fortress that’s also a palace.

Day 2 Anuradhapura Visit Avukana and its towering Buddha Statue carved from a rock face. Travel by road to the ancient royal capital, Anuradhapura.

Day 7 Polonnaruwa Visit Polonnaruwa for a village tour and free time. Safari in Minneriya National Park in search of elephants.

Day 3 Trincomalee Trek through Ritigala Reserve and explore the ruins of a Buddhist monastery complex built before the birth of Christ. Lunch with a local family in Habarana, then a drive to the seaside village of Trincomalee. Day 4 Trincomalee Trincomalee is rich with sights and experiences: the Koneswaram Temple, Lover’s Leap, Fort Frederick and the hot springs of Kannaya. Day 5 Trincomalee Optional whale and dolphin watching cruise. Alternatively, explore the village at your own pace. Day 6 Sigiriya Immerse yourself in Sri Lankan village life and the Hiriwadunna countryside. Lunch with friendly locals before heading

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Day 8 Kandy On the road to Kandy you’ll visit Matale and the Spice Garden. City tour includes the Temple of the Tooth. Day 9 Kandy Trek the rugged Knuckles Mountain Range (the Sinhalese know it by the more poetic Dumbara Kanduvetiya or ‘Mist-Laden Mountains’) before returning to Kandy for an optional fire walking show.

Start 2014 26 Jan 23 Feb 23 Mar 20 Apr 18 May 15 Jun 13 Jul 10 Aug 07 Sep

TRIP DETAILS

Finish

Start

Finish

06 Feb 06 Mar 03 Apr 01 May 29 May 26 Jun 24 Jul 21 Aug 18 Sep

05 Oct 02 Nov 30 Nov 28 Dec 2015 25 Jan 22 Feb 22 Mar 19 Apr 17 May

16 Oct 13 Nov 11 Dec 08 Jan 05 Feb 05 Mar 02 Apr 30 Apr 28 May

Day 10 Kithulgala Sri Lanka is famous for its tea; find out why at the Giragama Tea Factory. Drive to the wilderness reserve at Kithulgala where you spend the night. Day 11 Colombo Guided morning trek of the jungle reserve of Kithulgala. Return to Colombo in the evening and take a guided tour of the capital of Sri Lanka. Day 12 Colombo Your trip comes to an end in Colombo this morning (Thu).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights beach resort, 7 nights hotel, 1 night resthouse. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PISE. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pise

Trincomalee Ritigala Reserve Polonnaruwa

Anuradhapura Hiriwadunna Katunayake Colombo

Knuckles Mountain Range Kandy Kithulgala Forest Reserve

SRI LANKA

Secrets of Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA

DAYS

15 Treasures of Sri Lanka

INDIA

Sri Maha Bodhi, a cutting from the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, is the oldest recorded tree in the world. For the past 2250 years, monks have faithfully chronicled the tree; first on dried banana leaves, then books and now on the Internet at its own website. ITINERARY

TRIP DATES Day 8 Nuwara Eliya Travel through tea plantations and arrive at the old British hill station of Nuwara Eliya and relax with a free afternoon.

Day 1 Wattala (Sun) Arrive at Colombo Airport, take a private transfer to your hotel in Wattala. Day 2 Anuradhapura Stop on the way to Anuradhapura at Mihintale, the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism. Day 3 Polonnaruwa Cycle through small villages to Dambalawewa Lake. Watch sunset on the banks of Giritale Lake. Day 4 Polonnaruwa Highlights of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa include Buddhas carved from rocks. Day 5 Kandy Morning visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Buddhist caves of Dambulla. Drive to the old capital of Kandy. Day 6 Kandy Morning tour of the famed botanical gardens and local market before a free afternoon. Day 7 Kithulgala Swim and walk in the wilderness reserve at Kithulgala.

Day 9 Nuwara Eliya Hike along the hilly slopes through mountain forests and tea plantations to World’s End. Stunning views across the plains. Spend the night in a mountain resort. Day 10 Kataragama Descend to the plains and stop at Ath Athuru Sevana, where orphaned baby elephants are introduced back into their habitat. Continue on to the sacred city of Kataragama. Day 11 Galle Search for the wildlife at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest. Continue to historic port town of Galle. Optional visit to a World Heritage listed Dutch fortress.

Start 2014 05 Jan 19 Jan 02 Mar 30 Mar 27 Apr 25 May 22 Jun 20 Jul 17 Aug 14 Sep

Finish

Start

Finish

19 Jan 02 Feb 16 Mar 13 Apr 11 May 08 Jun 06 Jul 03 Aug 31 Aug 28 Sep

28 Sep 26 Oct 23 Nov 07 Dec 2015 04 Jan 01 Feb 01 Mar 29 Mar 26 Apr 24 May

12 Oct 09 Nov 07 Dec 21 Dec 18 Jan 15 Feb 15 Mar 12 Apr 10 May 07 Jun

Days 12-13 Bandaragama Take a short trip to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery en route to your lakeside resort in Bandaragama. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Bolgoda. Day 14 Colombo Free time this morning for a yoga session, swim or walk before returning to Colombo. Day 15 Colombo Say goodbye to your new friends as the trip ends in Colombo this morning (Sun).

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 14 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PISL. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pisl

Anuradhapura Polonnaruwa Dambulla Colombo/ Wattala Kithulgala

Kandy Nuwara Eliya

SRI LANKA Bandaragama Galle

Yala National Park

Kataragama

Treasures of Sri Lanka

Melheim Resort, Sri Lanka With only nine cottages, you are assured of a private and intimate experience at this tranquil resort. Bordered by a forest reserve, all rooms have a private deck opening to mountain views. At the end of a day’s exploring, unwind in the swimming pool, steam room or Jacuzzi. The resort has been built in harmony with the scenic beauty of the area, and it’s a haven for bird lovers. Make the most of it all on the large balcony, which is ideal for outdoor dining.

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Nepal & Bhutan a true traveller’s

Destination

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Steve Wroe General Manager, Peregrine

“I love the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla in the Everest region. You fly parallel to the mountains which gives you a fantastic view of Everest. But in Nepal the best journeys are made on foot – the ascent to Kopra Ridge in the Annapurnas is amazing.”

Trek Nepal’s unbeaten paths Let us show you the Nepal we know, love and have kept coming back to since our first trek in 1978. Our local leaders grew up in these mountains, and over the years they’ve taken thousands of travellers up and down its many peaks. In fact, the cook’s assistant on that very first trek is now one of the senior managers of our Kathmandu team. We take you off the well worn Annapurna trail to stay in lodges that Peregrine helped build, with proceeds from these lodges going back into the community.

Bhutan’s national happiness Bhutan remains one of the world’s least accessible countries. Television was only introduced in 1999. Yet the home of Gross National Happiness welcomes its guests with a warm heart and deep spirit. A simple walk through the mountain-ringed capital of Thimpu, or the Tiger’s Nest temple nearly a kilometre up a cliff-face, will stay with you forever.

For hundreds of years, Nepal has been a true traveller’s and pilgrim’s destination. For today’s adventurer, Nepal offers a chance to step away from the modern world in a way that few Very hot & dry 35+oC destinations can. Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC

Seasonal weather patterns NEPAL Kathmandu Pokhara Lukla BHUTAN Paro

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Trekkers… we’ve got you covered When we camp, we camp in comfort and safety. There’s mountain-grade tents with insulated mats, dining tents, tables, chairs and a toilet tent. Check trip details to see which trips offer camping. Depending on the nature of the trip, one or more of the following are included: Trek pack – includes a kitbag, high quality sleeping bag, cotton inner sheet and a high altitude insulated jacket.

Very hot & dry 35+oC Hot & dry 30-35oC Monsoon 25-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry zero and under - 15oC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC NEPAL Kathmandu Pokhara Climbing pack – includes ice axe, crampons, Lukla harness and karabiner. Specialist climbing boots BHUTAN Paro

are available for hire, see our trip notes for more details.

Medical kit and Portable Altitude Chambers – for treks above 4000 metres we provide medical oxygen and Portable Altitude Chambers. Trained and qualified leaders, trek staff and porters – our leaders attend extensive first aid and mountain skills training courses annually and all our porters are fully equipped with proper clothing, boots and trekking equipment.

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DAYS

22 Essence of India & Nepal “Nepal, without exaggeration, is one of those countries that will imprint itself on a traveller long after the journey. The settlement of Bandipur is definitely on the road less travelled. Unspoilt by mass market tourism, it is a living history of Newari Culture and architecture. Observe real Nepalese village life and customs as they once were in this beautifully preserved treasure.” Ken Ismail – Group Operations and Communications Manager. ITINERARY Days 1-2 Delhi (Tue) On arrival in TURKMENISTAN Delhi you’ll be met by a Peregrine representative and transferred to your hotel. Days 3-4 Jaipur An express train takes you from Delhi to the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur (approx 5 hrs). Known as the Pink City, Jaipur has a population of over 3 million people. The prior rulers of Jaipur invited skilled artisans, artists and craftsmen from far and wide to to afghanistan live here and practise their skills. It is bermuda still a fantastic place to source world class arts and crafts.

TRIP DATES temples and shrines of Varanasi, one of the world’s most incredible cities. Days 11-12 Delhi – Kathmandu Free time to wander the ghats and grab some souvenirs in TAJIKISTAN the bazaars before returning to Delhi. On Day 12, board a short flight from Delhi to Kathmandu, where you will be treated to a traditional Nepalese dinner.

Day 13 Kathmandu Experience an unforgettable flight over Mount Everest, and make sure your camera is fully charged! Afternoon visit to Pashupatinath Temple and AFGHANISTAN Bodhnath Stupa. Day 5 Agra Comfortable, private vehicles are the perfect way to Days 14-15 Pokhara See Pokhara travel across the plains of Rajasthan and its Peace Pagoda and IRAN and into the state of Uttar Pradesh. Mountaineering Museum. Relax in Marvel at the Taj Mahal. the afternoon on a boat on Phewa Lake or take in mountain views from Days 6-7 Orchha Arrive in Jhansi the shore. and jumppakistan into auto rickshaws to PAKISTAN explore the rural landscapes of Days 16-17 Bandipur Drive to the Orchha. It’s a very different side of rural village of Bandipur, explore the India than you’ve previously seen. surrounding countryside and nearby Day 8 Khajuraho The 1000-year-old temples of remote Khajuraho are famous for bearing carvings which depict the entire Kama Sutra. Days 9-10 Varanasi Welcome to the ultimate destination for all Hindu pilgrims. Take time to explore the

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Start

Finish

2014 14 Jan 28 Jan 11 Feb 25 Feb 11 Mar 25 Mar 08 Apr 22 Apr 23 Sep 07 Oct 14 Oct 21 Oct 28 Oct

04 Feb 18 Feb 04 Mar 18 Mar 01 Apr 15 Apr 29 Apr 13 May 14 Oct 28 Oct 04 Nov 11 Nov 18 Nov

TRIP DETAILS Start

Finish

11 Nov 25 Nov 16 Dec 2015 06 Jan 27 Jan 17 Feb 03 Mar 17 Mar 31 Mar 14 Apr 28 Apr 05 May

02 Dec 16 Dec 06 Jan

Day 19 Chitwan National Park Enjoy an unforgettable wildlife safari and a dugout canoe excursion. Day 20 Bhaktapur Go on a bird watching trip before driving to the traditional village of Bhaktapur. Day 21 Kathmandu Wander the cobblestone streets, temples and monumental squares of Bhaktapur. Return to Kathmandu in the afternoon.

china

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pirn

Day 22 Kathmandu Say goodbye to your new friends as this trip ends in Kathmandu in the afternoon (Tue).

NEPAL Annapurna Pokhara

INDIA Jaipur

Agra

Orchha Khajuraho

Essence of India & Nepal

Kathmandu

Everest

Bandipur

Delhi

caves. Day 18 Chitwan National Park A short drive to Chitwan National Park where you’ll search for endangered Indian rhino, tigers, leopards and the rare Gangetic dolphin.

27 Jan 17 Feb 10 Mar 24 Mar 07 Apr 21 Apr 05 May 19 May 26 May

Trip Altitudes Min 800m, Max 1360m. Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights historic hotel, 15 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights safari lodge. Meals 19 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PIRN. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip CHINA with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

Varanasi

Chitwan National Park

Bhaktapur

NEPAL&&NEPAL INDIA BHUTAN

china

11 Colours of Nepal DAYS

CHINA

“Peregrine has a wide range of trekking trips Nepal... but this is not one of them! Instead, we use private transport and scenic flights to get around. This is ideal for those wanting to experience diversity and adventure without all the trekking normally associated with Nepal. If you want all the beauty without the hard work, then this is the trip for you.” Ken Ismail – Group Operations and Communications Manager. ITINERARY

NEPAL Annapurna Pokhara

TRIP DETAILS

TRIP DATES

Kathmandu

Everest

Bandipur

INDIA

Chitwan National Park

Bhaktapur

Colours of Nepal

Day 1 Kathmandu (Sat) Arrive in Kathmandu to a warm welcome, then transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Kathmandu Make sure your camera battery is fully charged for a scenic flight to Mount Everest. Afternoon visit to Pashupatinath Temple and Bodhnath Stupa. Days 3-4 Pokhara See Pokhara and its Peace Pagoda and Mountaineering Museum. Relax in the afternoon on a boat on Phewa Lake or take in mountain views from the shore. Days 5-6 Bandipur Drive to the rural village of Bandipur, explore the surrounding countryside and nearby caves.

Day 7 Chitwan National Park Short drive to Chitwan National Park where you’ll search for endangered Indian rhino, tigers, leopards and the rare Gangetic dolphin. Day 8 Chitwan National Park Set off on a safari and dugout canoe excursion in Chitwan National Park. Day 9 Bhaktapur Go on a bird watching trip before driving to the traditional village of Bhaktapur. Day 10 Kathmandu Wander the cobblestone streets, temples and monumental squares of Bhaktapur. Return to Kathmandu in the afternoon.

Start 2014 11 Jan 18 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 22 Feb 08 Mar 22 Mar 05 Apr 19 Apr 03 May 04 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct 01 Nov

Finish 21 Jan 28 Jan 04 Feb 18 Feb 04 Mar 18 Mar 01 Apr 15 Apr 29 Apr 13 May 14 Oct 28 Oct 04 Nov 11 Nov

Start

Finish

08 Nov 22 Nov 06 Dec 27 Dec 2015 17 Jan 07 Feb 28 Feb 14 Mar 28 Mar 11 Apr 25 Apr 09 May 16 May

18 Nov 02 Dec 16 Dec 06 Jan 27 Jan 17 Feb 10 Mar 24 Mar 07 Apr 21 Apr 05 May 19 May 26 May

Want a longer journey?

Trip Altitudes Min 800m, Max 1360m. Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, airport arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights safari lodge. Meals 10 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PHCN. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/phcn

Combine your Nepal trip with the icons of India on the Jewels of India trip on page 27.

Day 11 Kathmandu Your trip ends in Kathmandu in the afternoon (Tue).

Shangri La, Kathmandu At the end of a long day, there’s nothing better than coming home to the creature comforts of Kathmandu’s Shangri La Hotel. With lush gardens and Newari-style architecture, you’ll be greeted with friendly smiles and an inviting room. This is a true oasis with restaurant, bar and pool. It’s just a short walk to the bustling area of Thamel. Join the company of legendary mountaineers, including Edmund Hillary, who have also spent time here.

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DAYS

13 Himalayan Kingdoms Bhutan is the first country in the world with specific constitutional obligations on its people to protect the environment. Among the requirements is that at least 60 percent of the nation must remain under forest cover at all times. ITINERARY

TRIP DATES

Day 1 Kathmandu (Sun) Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.

Day 5 Gangtok Leave early for an excursion to Tiger Hill. Travel by road to Gangtok, capital of Sikkim.

Day 2 Kathmandu Get your china bearings in Kathmandu. Visit Pashupatinath Temple and Bodhnath Stupa.

Day 6 Gangtok Gangtok means ‘hill top’ and, true to its name, boasts inspiring city views. Explore the ancient streets and visit Rumtek Monastery.

CHINA Day 3 Darjeeling A short flight to Bhadrapur, then drive to Darjeeling, a town draped over a steep mountain ridge and surrounded by tea plantations. Day 4 Darjeeling The quintessential Indian hill station with botanical gardens, handicraft centres, Tibetan monasteries and mountaineering institute. And tea, of course.

Day 7 Kalimpong A short but scenic drive to Kalimpong. This bustling bazaar town boasts Himalayan vistas and flower gardens. Day 8 Phuntsholing Visit Zangdopheir Monastery on your way to the border with Bhutan at Phuntsholing.

2014 02 Mar 27 Apr 12 Oct 26 Oct

Finish 14 Mar 09 May 24 Oct 07 Nov

SIKKIM

Gangtok

NEPAL

2015 05 Apr 19 Apr

17 Apr 01 May

Day 10 Thimpu Explore Thimphu and meet some of the friendly Bhutanese people. Visit fortresses, the Painting School and handicraft centres.

Thimphu Paro Kalimpong Darjeeling

Day 13 Paro Bid farewell to your new friends as your trip ends in Paro after breakfast (Fri).

INDIA

BURMA

burma

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Finish

Day 9 Thimpu Drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu. The world’s only capital city without traffic lights, it’s easy to get around and discover the local sights, including the local markets.

Bhadrapur

Himalayan Kingdoms

TRIP DETAILS Start

Days 11-12 Paro See the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Later, travel to Paro and explore Paro Valley. BHUTAN

Kathmandu

Start

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, airport transfers, transport, internal flights, visa for Bhutan, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 12 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 12 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PHHK. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/phhk

NEPAL NEPAL INDIA, & BHUTAN & BHUTAN

CHINA

DAYS

9 Dragon Kingdom “The trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is quite difficult but it’s the most incredible experience. The last half hour takes you down the cliffs on stone steps. There’s a waterfall with prayer flags everywhere, fluttering overhead like rainbows. Then it’s back up more stone steps to the monastery. It is a real highlight to end the trip on.” Zoe Rees, Peregrine Senior Private Groups Consultant. kyrgyzstan ITINERARY

KAZAKHSTAN

Day 3 Punakha A short drive to UZBEKISTAN Punakha. If the weather is fine you’ll KYRGYZSTAN tajikistan witness incredible mountain views.

NEPAL

Day 4 Gangtey Drive to the Phobjikha Valley and visit Gangtey.

TURKMENISTAN

Day 5 Bumthang Valley Drive east TAJIKISTAN to Trongsa and Bumthang Valley, crossing Pele La (Pass) and stop at the stupa, Chendebji Chorten. Day 1 Paro (Fri) After arrival in Paro, transfer to your hotel in Thimphu. Day 2 Thimpu Visit the sites in this afghanistan ancient city including views of the bermuda

Day 6 Bumthang Valley Warm up your legs as you explore the valley. Visit Jampey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.

architectural treasure of Tashicho AFGHANISTAN Dzong.

NDIA

Paro

BHUTAN Bumthang

Gangtey

INDIA Dragon Kingdom

Day 7 Paro A short flight to Paro with its impressive Paro Dzong and the national museum in the Ta Dzong watchtower. china Day 8 Paro Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

CHINA

Day 9 Paro Your trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Transfer to Paro Airport (Sat).

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist local guides, airport transfers, visa for Bhutan, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PHDK. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/phdk

TRIP DATES Start 2014 28 Mar 18 Apr 09 May 19 Sep 26 Sep 17 Oct

Finish 05 Apr 26 Apr 17 May 27 Sep 04 Oct 25 Oct

Start

Finish

20 Dec BURMA 21 Nov 12 Dec 2015 06 Mar 20 Mar 17 Apr 08 May

29 Nov

burma

14 Mar 28 Mar 25 Apr 16 May

3 Chitwan Safari DAYS

IRAN

Punakha Thimphu

TRIP DETAILS

pakistan

Chitwan was the first of Nepal’s national parks. Less than PAKISTAN 60 years ago, the upper classes came here to hunt tigers and rhinoceros. But the area’s status as a hunting reserve helped to curb the largest threat – deforestation. In 1973, when King Mahendra heard there were fewer than 100 rhinos and 20 tigers as a result of the loss of habitat, he declared the area a national park. ITINERARY Day 1 Kathmandu – Chitwan National Park Set off on the drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park. Enjoy an evening safari. Day 2 Chitwan National Park Explore the surrounds of Chitwan National Park. Embark on guided

jungle activities, a dugout canoe excursion and an unforgettable safari.

TRIP DETAILS

NEPAL Kathmandu

INDIA

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan Safari

Inclusions Return transfers from Kathmandu to Chitwan, local guides, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 2 nights safari lodge. Meals 2 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 6. Trip code PHCS BURMA Price See inside front cover.

burma

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/phcs

TRIP DEPARTS DAILY

Day 3 Chitwan National Park – Kathmandu Perhaps set off on an early morning bird watching tour before heading back to Kathmandu, where your trip ends on arrival. INDIA

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Peregrine Expeditions If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to travel off the grid,

we can take you there

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Expedition trips These one-of-a-kind trips veer off the beaten path to places rarely seen by visitors. Experience it all through the eyes of people who know them best – Peregrine local leaders. No two days are the same, and a flexible itinerary means you can take advantage of opportunities that might arise along the way.

Mongolia Amid the stark landscapes of rural Mongolia lives one of the world’s last surviving nomadic cultures. This is a world without boundaries. Vast plains are matched only by blue sky. To travel here is to understand an elemental connection between man, life and the grassy plains and rivers of the steppe. For those seeking a frontier adventure with unparalleled cultural interaction, Mongolia should top your list.

North Korea With barely 1500 visitors a year, ‘off the beaten path’ doesn’t quite sum it up. Entirely untouched and isolated might be a better fit. The Kaseon Youth Park in the capital of Pyongyang is the most unlikely of tourist attractions. And one of the most memorable sites is the International Friendship Exhibition, where 223,579 gifts given to Kim Il Sung are on display, including a stuffed crocodile wearing a bow-tie and serving drinks. Expect the unexpected.

Tajikistan As traders on the Silk Road passed through here, they left their stories and cultural influences behind. Today there are fewer travellers; so visiting is less like a holiday and more like a pioneering adventure. Tajikstan was a former staging ground for explorers, merchants and spies. There are still plenty of adventures to be had for the bold traveller.

Mt Hagen Festival, Papua New Guinea Bodies glisten with pig fat under enormous feathered headdresses. Smiling faces are covered in red, black and yellow ochre. Noses are pierced by pig tusks. Grass kilts swish and sway as spears glisten beneath the tropical sun. Watch as tribes from across the country gather to share traditions in Papua New Guinea’s most exciting sing-sing (tribal gathering).

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New

DAYS

7 Mt Hagen Festival Expedition Bismarck

Sea The Mt Hagen Cultural Show, or Mt Hagen Festival, is a true insight into another world. This annual event is one of Papua New Guinea’s biggest displays, playing host to a multitude of regional dance groups who celebrate their lineage Rabaul through song and dance. new britain

ITINERARY Day 1 Port Moresby (Thu) Meet a Peregrine representative on arrival in Port Moresby and transfer to the hotel. Day 2 Mt Hagen Short flight from Port Moresby to Mt Hagen. Transfer to your hotel and relax.

Mount Hagen

indonesia Day 6 Port Moresby Catch a flight back to Port Moresby after breakfast and be transferred to the hotel.

Day 7 Port Moresby Say goodbye to new friends when the trip ends in Port Moresby this morning (Wed).

PAPUA NEW GUINEA Solomon Sea

Port Moresby

Mt Hagen Festival Expedition

Day 3 Mt Hagen – Tapulga village Visit the Kumul Lodge for a Tapulga village show – a prelude to the Mt Hagen show. Enjoy cultural and tribal activities before returning to the hotel. Days 4-5 Mt Hagen Festival Revel in the Mt Hagen festival over two days and be captivated by the cultural extravaganza displayed by hundreds of different tribes.

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights and sightseeing fees. Accommodation 6 nights hotel. Meals 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PAMH. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pamh

TRIP DATES Start

Gulf of Carpentaria

2014

Finish

Start

Finish

14 Aug

20 Aug

What to know

Coral Sea

Venturing well away from cities and into remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities may be basic but the rewards are immeasurable.

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EXPEDITIONS

DAYS

North Korea Expedition – Apex of Adventure

Known as ‘The Hermit Kingdom’, North Korea offers one of the most surreal travel experiences imaginable. A rogue and reclusive state that refuses to play ball with the rest of the world, gaining a snapshot of life here is a privilege few can lay claim to. From the epic, eerie monuments of Pyongyang and the tension of the Demilitarised Zone to the serene Kumgang Mountains – every new spectacle raises as many questions as it answers. ITINERARY Day 1 Beijing (Thu) Arrive to a warm welcome in Beijing and transfer to the hotel. Day 2 Pyongyang Morning flight to the capital, Pyongyang. Visit Mansudae Grand Monument, a larger-than-life bronze statue of the great leader, Kim Il Sung. Day 3 Pyongyang Spend the day sightseeing, including the Grand People Study House, Kim II Sung Square, Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum, USS Pueblo, Korean Central Art Gallery and Pyongyang Film Studios. Day 4 Pyongyang In the morning, stop by the Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery and Kumsusan Palace. Afternoon walk up Moran Hill with a visit to Kaeson Funfair. Day 5 Mount Myohyang Take the lift to the top of Juche Tower for a magnificent view of the cityscape and its surrounds. Afternoon drive to Mount Myohyang. Day 6 Kaesong Wander through the two vast shrines that make up the International Friendship Exhibition.

Visit the Schoolchildren’s Palace TIBET (CHINA) before heading to Kaesong to sleep NEPAL in the traditional Korean way, on a heated floor.

Day 12 Pyongyang – Beijing The North Korean part of your trip comes to an end when you catch the train to Beijing this morning.

Day 7 Pyongyang Travel to the abandoned village of Panmunjom, in the Demilitarised Zone, where the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement that paused the Korean War was signed. Head to the concrete wall overlooking South Korea.

Day 13 Beijing Arrive in Beijing and settle in before enjoying a free day to see the sights. The Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven are must-see highlights.

Day 8 Sijung Drive to Kumgang Mountains. Take a sunset walk around Star Kumgang Lake to the guesthouse and enjoy mud treatments and a massage.

Day 14 Beijing Your trip comes to an end in Beijing this morning (Wed).

Day 9 Wonsan Morning stroll along the beach at Sijung and a dip in the ocean, then visit a local co-operative farm. Day 10 Nampo Head to Nampo and the West Sea Barrage. Enjoy more time to relax here and perhaps a therapeutic hot spring bath. Day 11 Pyongyang Return to Pyongyang via the Chonsamri Cooperative Farm.

What to know Venturing well away from cities and into remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities may be basic but the rewards are immeasurable.

NORTH KOREA Mt Myohyang Wonsan Pyongyang Kumgang Mountains Nampo Kaesong

North Korea Expedition

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, specialist guides, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 11 nights hotel, 1 night overnight train, 1 night guesthouse. Meals 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PCNK. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcnk

TRIP DATES Start 2014 29 May 07 Aug 21 Aug

Finish 11 Jun 20 Aug 03 Sep

Start

Finish

2015 28 May

10 Jun

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DAYS

14 Mongolian Eagle Festival At the Sagasi Eagle Festival, the best Kazakh hunters pit their skills against one another. They coax and cajole their specially-trained golden eagles to catch small game, with prizes for the best eagle. This frontier adventure provides unparalleled cultural interaction. ITINERARY

TRIP DATES

Day 1 Ulaanbaatar (Fri) Arrive in Ulaanbaatar to a private transfer to your hotel.

between eagles trained to hunt. Stay overnight with a local eagle hunter family.

Days 2-3 Olgii – Tsambagarav Uul National Park Fly to Olgii. Visit the local museum then drive to Tsambagarav Uul (Mountain) National Park and stay overnight in tents. Meet your camel herder, explore the area and settle in for the night as you prepare for the five-day trek.

Day 11 Olgii Experience a day in nomadic life as you travel out to a family. Be sure to try the yak cheese.

Day 8 Olgii Drive to Olgii. Visit the local bazaar and mosque. There are some fantastic backstreet handicraft shops and a local museum. Days 9-10 Sagsai Eagle Festival Spend time at the Eagle Festival in Sagsai. Witness horse racing, bouzkhasi and the competitions

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Finish

2014

Days 12-13 Ulaanbaatar Fly to Ulaanbaatar for a morning city tour of Gandan Monastery, Sukbaatar Square and city view from Zaisan Hill. The rest of the day is free to explore Mongolia’s capital. Day 14 Ulaanbaatar Bid farewell to your new friends when your tour ends today after breakfast (Thu).

TRIP DETAILS Start

Finish

12 Sep

25 Sep

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, Peregrine escort, specialist guides, internal flights, arrival transfer, transport, camping equipment (except sleeping bag), entrance fees. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel, 5 nights ger tent (4-share), 5 nights camping. Meals 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 10 dinners. Group size Maximum 12. Trip code PCEF. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcef

What to know Sagsai Döröö Nuur

Olgii

✈

Days 4-7 Altai Mountains Trek Trek with pack camels through Altai Mountains with views of snowy peaks and summer pastures of Kazakh nomads. This was how the original Silk Route was negotiated over 2000 years ago.

Start

✈

Tsambagarav Uul N.P. Ulaanbaatar

MONGOLIA Mongolian Eagle Festival

Venturing well away from cities and into remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities may be basic but the rewards are immeasurable. A good level of fitness is required for the trek as you will be walking on hilly terrain and in very remote areas.

EXPEDITIONS

DAYS

Tajikistan Pamir Adventure – Expedition

Dushanbe is the capital city of Tajikistan. The name means “Monday” in Persian and was chosen because the city was developed on the site of a village that held a popular Monday market. ITINERARY Days 1-2 Tashkent (Sun) Meet your Peregrine representative on arrival in Tashkent and transfer to your hotel. Prepare paperwork and visas for Tajikistan, with free time to explore the city. Days 3-4 Fergana Valley Drive from Tashkent to Fergana Valley via Kokand (approx. 6 hours). Stretch your legs on a visit to Khan’s Palace. Day tour to Rishton and Margilon where you’ll stop at a ceramics workshop and carpet factory before grabbing some bargains at the local bazaar. Eat lunch with a local family. Day 5 Osh Cross the border into Kyrgyzstan and stay overnight at a local guesthouse. Visit Suleiman’s Mountain, a site of huge Islamic importance. Day 6 Sary Tash Drive to Sary Tash and experience an unforgettable night sleeping in a traditional yurt. Day 7 Murgab Drive to Murgab, stopping at Karakul village along the way. Immerse yourself in local life on a homestay, complete with banya (traditional sauna). Descend to Kara-Kul Lake. See petroglyphs at Ak-Jilga, the old mining town of Dara and shop at the bazaar in Murgab. Day 8 Langar Drive to Langar via Bulunkul. Your connection with the culture deepens with another

left to decay wherever they were left behind. Stay overnight with a local family.

overnight homestay and the chance to enjoy delicious home cooking. Day 9 Ptup Visit Yamchun and its fort on the way to Ptup and experience another Pamiri homestay in the traditional Wakhan style. There’s more sightseeing, before stopping at the 4th century Buddhist stupas at Vrang. Freshen up in the Bibi Fatima hot springs, named for the Prophet Mohammed’s sister and where local women believe they can increase their fertility levels. Days 10-11 Khorog Pass through Ishkashim, near the Afghan border en route to Khorog. Meet your new hosts, and break bread at tonight’s homestay. Explore the Pamir Botanical Gardens and continue the hunt for the perfect souvenir at the bazaar. Day 12 Kala-I Kum On the road to Kala-I Khum, you’ll see relics of Tajikistan’s bitter civil war of 1992-96, with tanks and armoured vehicles

Day 13-14 Dushanbe On arrival in Dushanbe, drive to the remains of the 18th century Hissor Fort and its two medressas and visit the Museum of National Antiquities. This relatively new museum reflects Tajikistan’s diverse pre-Islamic cultural heritage, with exhibits from Bactrian, Buddhist, Zoroastrian and Hindu eras. Day 15 Khojand Drive to Khojand, passing Istaravshan on the way. Tajik hospitality is such that you might be invited into private homes for tea. We will seize any opportunity that arises to meet locals and see their ornately decorated homes. In Khojand you will visit the museum and 10th century citadel. Days 16-17 Tashkent Cross the border into Uzbekistan and drive to Tashkent. Tonight there is a final dinner to say goodbye to new friends and reminisce about your adventure.

What to know Venturing well away from cities and into remote areas, this trip takes you right off the beaten track. Accommodation and facilities my be basic but the rewards are immeasurable.

Tashkent

UZBEKISTAN

KYRGYZSTAN Fergana Osh

TAJIKISTAN

Khojand Kala-i Khum

Sary Tash Murgab

Dushanbe Khorog Ptup

Langar

Tajikistan Pamir Adventure

TRIP DETAILS Altitudes Max 4655m. Inclusions Local tour leader, local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 9 nights hotel, 7 nights homestay. Meals 16 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners. Group size Maximum 12. Trip code PCPT. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/pcpt

TRIP DATES Start 2014 17 Jun 09 Sep

Finish 03 Jul 25 Sep

Start 2015 16 Jun

Finish 2 Jul

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Family Adventures Explore some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most

awe-inspiring destinations, together

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The world is a classroom There’s no better way to educate kids about the real world than to grab their hands and venture out there with them. With history and geography lessons coming to life before their eyes, they’ll gain invaluable insights into different countries and cultures. Plus there’s lots of fun to be had along the way. Peregrine family trips explore some of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. From schoolbook staples such as the Great Wall of China, to spots they might never have heard of: Cambodia’s Angkor Wat or Halong Bay in Vietnam. All of our trips have been designed with families in mind, so practical concerns are taken into account. For example, manageable travel times and scheduling trips to fit around school holidays. Tours are also offered at a family friendly price, which means you’ll be staying in safe and comfortable 3 star accommodation, with ample opportunities to meet local people, experience other ways of life and become immersed in the culture.

You can also tailor your own itinerary depending on what type of experience you’re after. Our trips operate on a minimum of two people, which means you could take the whole family – aunties, uncles and grandparents included. If you want to travel on one of our existing itineraries, but can’t travel on the specified dates, we can even arrange a departure date that suits you. As well as covering all the historic sights, our trips pack in wildlife, landscapes and plenty of activities for all to enjoy. Whether it’s spotting big game across the Serengeti, hanging out with orangutans in Borneo, snorkelling alongside Galapagos sea lions or coming eyeball-to-eyeball with Egyptian mummies, Peregrine family trips have got it covered.

Please note that these tours are operated by our partner, Intrepid. The level of accommodation and transport is slightly below that of Peregrine’s non-family tours, which is reflective of the family-friendly price.

Giant Pandas, China See how Chengdu Panda Base is working to increase the world’s panda population and watch them play, eat and climb to their heart’s content.

Temples, Burma (Myanmar)

CHINA

Around 2200 brick stupas rise across the plains of Bagan. Explore the world’s largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples by horse and cart.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

BURMA (MYANMAR) VIETNAM CAMBODIA

Swim in the crystal clear water of Halong Bay, surrounded by enormous limestone pillars, arches and caves that have been forming for 20 million years.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia BORNEO

The temples of Angkor make up the largest religious complex in the world, and Angkor Wat is the star. It is truly the heart and soul of Cambodia.

Orangutans, Borneo At Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, orphaned orangutans are rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Watch these mischievous, intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.

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15 The Great Indochina Quest Farmers from all over the Mekong Delta region and beyond bring their goods, fruits and vegetables to be sold on the famed floating markets. Pushed along by a big pole, each wholesaler hangs an example of their wares at the top of their pole so buyers can see who’s selling what. There are also floating restaurants, bars, gas stations and more. TRIP DETAILS

ITINERARY Day 1 Hanoi Welcome to Hanoi! A welcome meeting takes place at 6pm this evening. Day 2 Hanoi Enjoy breakfast at KOTO restaurant, which supports underprivileged children. Take a tour of the ancient 39 streets by cyclo – with fantastic shopping opportunities abound. Visit a water puppet theatre in the evening – a highlight for the kids. Day 3 Halong Bay Travel (approx 4 hours) by charter minibus to Halong Bay, arriving around lunchtime after a stop at the Sao Do Charity Centre. Jump straight on a boat in the bay, taking in the 2000 limestone peaks that emerge from the sea. Visit caves crammed with stalactites and stalagmites and, weather permitting, swim from your boat. Spend the night on board your airconditioned boat (with private facilities). Day 4 Hanoi Return to Hanoi (approx 3.5 hours) and board an overnight train to Danang.

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Days 5-7 Hoi An Arrive in Danang and take a mini bus (approx. 1 hour) to Hoi An. Set off on a walking tour and visit the Children’s Hope in Action Centre, which is a community based project. Then enjoy free time.

and learn the history of the Khmer Empire dating back to the 9th – 12th centuries. During free time, perhaps visit local markets, try some street food and let the kids take a dip in the hotel pool.

Days 8-9 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Take a short flight (approx 1 hour) to Ho Chi Minh City. Have some family fun at the Dam Sen Water Park, with plenty of time to explore the city. Riding by cyclo is a great way to get around and see the sights, including the War Remnants Museum.

Day 15 Siem Reap The trip ends in Siem Reap this morning.

Days 10-11 Phnom Penh Fly to Phnom Penh in Cambodia this morning and set off on a boat cruise on the Mekong River. Take in daily life along the river, and wave at local children as you pass. The following day is free for exploring the great markets, Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Days 12-14 Siem Reap Another short flight (approx 1 hour) to Siem Reap: gateway to Angkor Wat. Explore the temples (you have a three day pass into the complex) with a guide

VIETNAM Hanoi Halong Bay

Inclusions Tour leader, internal flights, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 12 nights hotel, 1 night overnight boat, 1 night overnight train. Meals 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Minimum age: 5 years. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PTFI. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/ptfi

TRIP DATES Start Danang

Angkor

Hoi An

Siem Reap

CAMBODIA

Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City

The Great Indochina Quest

2014 03 Jan 05 Jan 10 Jan 12 Jan 30 Mar 04 Apr 06 Apr 11 Apr 13 Apr 18 Apr 15 Jun 29 Jun 06 Jul 25 Jul 03 Aug 10 Aug

Finish

Start

Finish

17 Jan 19 Jan 24 Jan 26 Jan 13 Apr 18 Apr 20 Apr 25 Apr 27 Apr 02 May 29 Jun 13 Jul 20 Jul 08 Aug 17 Aug 24 Aug

15 Aug 21 Sep 26 Sep 21 Dec 2015 02 Jan 04 Jan 09 Jan 11 Jan 29 Mar 03 Apr 05 Apr 10 Apr 12 Apr 17 Apr 14 Jun 28 Jun

29 Aug 05 Oct 10 Oct 04 Jan 16 Jan 18 Jan 23 Jan 25 Jan 12 Apr 17 Apr 19 Apr 24 Apr 26 Apr 01 May 28 Jun 12 Jul

Ready, Set, Pho

VIETNAM Hanoi

A tradition handed down over thousands of years, Vietnamese puppetry, and particularly water puppetry, is a spectacle not to be missed. Skillful puppeteers are able to manipulate the puppets – some of which have separate mechanisms for their hands, wrists elbows and shoulders – whilst they move them across the water. With this intricate detail, the performers can make the puppets swim, fish, sword fight, row a boat, jump and even kick a ball. ITINERARY

Danang

TRIP DATES

Days 1-2 Hanoi Arrive in Hanoi and be transferred to the hotel, with a welcome meeting at 6pm. Breakfast at the KOTO restaurant before a cyclo tour through the ancient 36 old streets to discover the Old Quarter. Water-puppet theatre in the evening. Day 3 Halong Bay Travel by charter minibus (approx. 4 hours) to Halong Bay. Arrive around lunchtime and jump straight on a boat. Visit caves, go for a swim (weather permitting) and spend the night on board. Day 4 Hanoi – Overnight Train Return to Hanoi (approx. 3.5 hours) and board an overnight train to Danang. Days 5-6 Hue Head to Hue’s Perfume River to embark on a journey by dragon boat. Explore the Thien Mu Pagoda (the Temple of the Heavenly Lady), take in the views and visit one of the seven tombs. Days 7-9 Hoi An Take a bus over the Hai Van Pass (approx. 4 hours) and

DAYS

Halong Bay

enjoy the view below. Arrive in Hoi An and take a guided tour, then visit the Children’s Hope in Action Centre to meet some local children. Enjoy free time for relaxation or exploring. Day 10 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Make the short drive (approx. 1 hour) to Danang and take a flight south to Ho Chi Minh City. Day 11 Mekong Delta Leave the city behind and head for the Mekong Delta (approx. 3 hours). Visit the village of My Tho and learn about rural life. Sample elephant ear fish in a garden restaurant before boarding sampans (local rowing boats) to reach the main boat. Cruise the waterways of the Mekong and visit a local candy factory before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Start 2014 02 Jan 04 Jan 09 Jan 11 Jan 16 Jan 05 Apr 09 Apr 10 Apr 12 Apr 16 Apr 17 Apr 19 Apr 07 Jun 14 Jun 21 Jun 28 Jun 02 Jul 05 Jul 16 Jul 19 Jul 26 Jul 02 Aug 09 Aug 16 Aug

Finish

Start

Finish

14 Jan 16 Jan 21 Jan 23 Jan 28 Jan 17 Apr 21 Apr 22 Apr 24 Apr 28 Apr 29 Apr 01 May 19 Jun 26 Jun 03 Jul 10 Jul 14 Jul 17 Jul 28 Jul 31 Jul 07 Aug 14 Aug 21 Aug 28 Aug

20 Sep 23 Sep 27 Sep 18 Oct 17 Dec 18 Dec 20 Dec 24 Dec 27 Dec 31 Dec 2015 03 Jan 08 Jan 10 Jan 15 Jan 04 Apr 08 Apr 09 Apr 11 Apr 15 Apr 16 Apr 18 Apr 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun

02 Oct 05 Oct 09 Oct 30 Oct 29 Dec 30 Dec 01 Jan 05 Jan 08 Jan 12 Jan 15 Jan 20 Jan 22 Jan 27 Jan 16 Apr 20 Apr 21 Apr 23 Apr 27 Apr 28 Apr 30 Apr 18 Jun 25 Jun 02 Jul

Days 12-13 Ho Chi Minh City Let off some steam at the local water park and enjoy free time to explore. The tour ends after breakfast on Day 13.

Hoi An

Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta

Ready Set Pho

TRIP DETAILS Inclusions Tour leader, internal flights, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees, overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Accommodation 10 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train, 1 night boat. Meals 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner. Minimum age: 5 years. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PTFV. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/ptfv

Burma: Land of the Buddha

Built using 8688 sheets of gold and containing 1485 bells, 5448 diamonds and 2317 rubies, sapphires, and other gems both inside and out, Burma’s 2500 year-old Shwedagon Pagoda is as impressive in numbers as it is in appearance. Located in the city of Rangoon, the nation’s holiest Buddhist shrine rivals the opulence and mystique of any other icon of Asia. BURMA (MYANMAR)

ITINERARY Day 1 Rangoon (Yangon) Arrive in Rangoon and be transferred to your hotel. There’s an optional group dinner in the evening. Day 2 Rangoon Boat trip across the Yangon River, then a tuk tuk ride to Twunte village. Explore the village on foot during a guided tour, then try making some traditional local pottery. Travel back across the river after lunch. Days 3-4 Pagan (Bagan) Fly to the ancient wonder of Pagan. Take a tour by horse and cart (2 people per cart) to visit some of the main temples and shop in some of the local markets. Travel to Ngat Pyit Taung Monastery the next day and explore the caves. Continue to the town of Nyaung U and visit small neighbouring villages. Take in a marionette performance back in

Pagan

Pagan, and tuck into a traditional Bamar meal while you watch.

Kalaw

Days 5-6 Kalaw Drive to Bagan Airport and fly to Heho. Transfer to Kalaw. Wander through the local market and join in classroom activities with local children. After lunch walk to the 500-year-old Hnee Paya. Days 7-9 Inle Lake Cross the mountainous plateau and stop at the caves of Pindaya. Venture into the labyrinth of tunnels with your guide to gain a better insight into its history. Push on towards the northern end of Inle Lake and your base for the next few days. Enjoy opportunities for boat trips. Day 10 Rangoon Fly back to the hustle and bustle of Rangoon and take a walking tour downtown. Visit markets and perhaps a fortune teller stall. Visit Shwedagon Pagoda and

Twante

Heho Inle Lake

Rangoon

Burma: Land of the Buddha

TRIP DETAILS Karaweik Hall in the afternoon, then travel on to Kandawgyi Lake. See the sunset at Shwedagon and visit its temple.

Finish 01 Jan

Inclusions Tour leader, internal flights, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 10 nights comfortable hotel. Meals 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Minimum age: 11 years. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PTFB. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com

16 Apr 02 Jul

For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/ptfb

Day 11 Rangoon Bid farewell to new friends as the trip ends in Rangoon this morning after breakfast. TRIP DATES Start 2014 07 Apr 23 Jun 21 Jul 04 Aug

Finish 17 Apr 03 Jul 31 Jul 14 Aug

Start 22 Dec 2015 06 Apr 22 Jun

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FAMILY ADVENTURES

DAYS

11 Land of the Orangutan From the ancient legends and traditions of Sabah, the relaxing Poring Hot Springs and making friends during a traditional village homestay to getting up close with the gentle orangutans – each experience on this family trip is an adventure waiting to happen. ITINERARY Day 1 Kota Kinabalu Arrive in Kota Kinabalu and enjoy free time until the welcome meeting in the evening. Day 2 Mount Kinabalu National Park Head for the hills and the Kinabalu National Park. Arrive for lunch and spend the afternoon walking and taking in the mountain views on the numerous trails. Day 3 Mount Kinabalu National Park Rise early to catch glimpses of Mount Kinabalu before journeying to Poring Hot Springs (approx. 1 hr), for a soak in the thermal pools, a walk around the trails in the reserve, or a swim in a nearby waterfall. Day 4 Kinabatangan Local bus (approx. 5 hrs) to Kinabatangan River and spend two nights as the guests of members of the local ecological organisation, MESCOT. Head by boat (approx. 30 minutes)

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TRIP DETAILS into the jungle where you’ll stay by Oxbow Lake – the best way to experience untamed Borneo. Day 5 Kinabatangan Return to a local Malay village and spend the night in a local family’s home. Day 6 Sepilok Head to Sepilok (approx. 2 hours) and settle into the guesthouse. Visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary in the afternoon and view these unique monkeys – found only on the island of Borneo. At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre you can spend time observing these amazing apes. Day 7 Sepilok Perhaps visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre, a centre for environmental education. Wander along the steel canopy walkway and take in the views. Day 8 Pulau Tiga National Park Early morning transfer to Sandakan Airport for a flight to Kota Kinabalu.

Drive (approx. 2.5 hrs) to Kuala Penyu and travel by speedboat (approx. 30 mins) to a secluded, hideaway on the island of Pulau Tiga. Days 9-10 Kota Kinabalu Travel via speedboat (approx. 30 mins) to the mainland where you transfer to a minivan (approx. 2 hrs) to your final destination by the beach. Spend time relaxing on the beachfront. Day 11 Kota Kinabalu The tour ends after breakfast this morning.

Inclusions Tour leader, accommodation, internal flights, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 6 nights hotels, 1 night homestay, 3 nights jungle lodge. Meals 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners. Minimum age: 5 years. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PTFO. Price See inside front cover. Private Groups To book this trip with your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/ptfo

TRIP DATES Start Mt Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu Pulau Tiga NP

Sepilok Orangutan Reserve Kinabatangan

BORNEO (MALAYSIA)

Land of the Orangutan

2014 05 Jan 12 Jan 06 Apr 13 Apr 29 Jun 06 Jul 20 Jul 03 Aug 10 Aug 17 Aug

Finish 15 Jan 22 Jan 16 Apr 23 Apr 09 Jul 16 Jul 30 Jul 13 Aug 20 Aug 27 Aug

Start

Finish

21 Sep 28 Sep 15 Dec 27 Dec 2015 04 Jan 11 Jan 05 Apr 12 Apr 28 Jun

01 Oct 08 Oct 25 Dec 06 Jan 14 Jan 21 Jan 15 Apr 22 Apr 08 Jul

FAMILY ADVENTURES

DAYS

Panda-monium

The giant panda’s diet is 99% bamboo, and they can eat up to 20 kilograms of it every day. Despite having the digestive system of a carnivore, most pandas live like vegetarians. There’s not a lot of energy in bamboo so they have to eat for about 12 hours each day. That’s around 3500 bamboo stalks per panda! ITINERARY Day 1 Beijing Arrive in Beijing and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Beijing Visit Temple of Heaven Park, filled with historical structures. Enjoy a performance of Beijing acrobatics in the evening. Day 3 The Great Wall – Overnight train Travel to Mutianyu, a restored section of the Great Wall. Leave on the overnight train for Xian (approx. 14 hours). Days 4-5 Terracotta Warriors – Xian Half-day tour of the renowned Terracotta Warriors before spending time exploring the Muslim Quarter. Day 6 Chengdu Transfer to the airport for the flight to Chengdu. Spend free time getting to know the city. Day 7 Leshan – Chengdu Travel to Leshan and see the world’s largest Buddha. Day 8 Chengdu – Guilin – Yangshuo Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, located just outside the city, then transfer to the airport for a 90-minute flight to Guilin, the gateway to Yangshuo.

Beijing

Days 9-10 Yangshuo Join a local guide and spend a few hours cycling amidst the scenery of Yangshuo’s countryside. Meet some of the inhabitants of nearby villages. Learn the art of Chinese cooking (indulge in your own creation for dinner!). Then enjoy a free day to explore Yangshuo, after taking part in a kung fu class.

CHINA Xian

Chengdu Leshan

Guilin

Day 11 Yangshuo – Guilin – Overnight train Spend a day relaxing in Yangshuo before heading to the railway station in Guilin and boarding the overnight train to Shenzhen. Day 12 Hong Kong Arrive in Shenzhen, then cross the border from China into Hong Kong en route. Board the local KCR train into the centre of the city and transfer to the hotel. Then press on to the city’s highest point – Victoria Peak, before taking in the Sound and Light Show. Day 13 Hong Kong The tour finishes after breakfast in Hong Kong.

Yangshuo

Shenzhen Hong Kong

Panda-monium

TRIP DETAILS

TRIP DATES Start 2014 12 Jan 06 Apr 13 Apr 08 Jun 15 Jun 06 Jul 20 Jul 27 Jul

Finish 24 Jan 18 Apr 25 Apr 20 Jun 27 Jun 18 Jul 01 Aug 08 Aug

Start

Finish

10 Aug 21 Sep 2015 11 Jan 05 Apr 12 Apr 07 Jun 14 Jun

22 Aug 03 Oct 23 Jan 17 Apr 24 Apr 19 Jun 26 Jun

Inclusions Tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, internal flights, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 10 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights overnight train. Meals 10 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Minimum age: 5 years. Group size Maximum 16. Trip code PTFC. Price See inside front cover. For moreGroups information Private To book this trip with www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/ptfc your own private group, email groups@peregrineadventures.com For more information www.peregrineadventures.com/trips/ptfc

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