Christmas! Magic of Discover the
The festive season is a wonderful time to get away, a time to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
Festive Getaways
An amazing travel experience can make a lasting impression, and that’s why we take such care to get it right.
This year, why not celebrate Christmas somewhere di erentdiscover the delights of the Italian Riviera, the splendour of Malta or the mesmerising sights of India on an exciting festive escape. With so much included in the price, what are you waiting for?
reasons to book with us 6 GREAT
60 YEARS OF TOURING
We have been leading the way in escorted touring for more than 60 years, and we are immensely proud of our heritage and pioneering spirit. Our team work hard to create itineraries that our customers love, and feedback from our returning travellers helps us to shape future holidays.
A SERVICE YOU CAN COUNT ON
From your first enquiry to when you return from your travels, our team are with you every step of the way, our Holiday Advisors are at the end of the phone and our Holiday Directors and Local Guides will be with you on tour.
EXPERT DIRECTION & LOCAL FLAVOURS
Our itineraries have been designed to explore both iconic and o the beaten track sights, helping you to get a flavour of the region. Our Holiday Directors take you to the heart of a destination and immerse you in local traditions, culture and cuisine.
TRANSFORMATIVE TRAVEL
We believe travel should be as responsible as it is fulfilling, and that our tours can have a positive impact on both our customers and the communities we visit. As well as helping local businesses earn an income from tourism, in partnership with Planeterra we also support a range of projects and social enterprises.
CAREFULLY-CRAFTED HOLIDAYS
We take care of all the little details from flights, overseas travel, accommodation, and experiences so you don’t have to worry about a thing. We also know that there may be times when you want to explore on your own, have that romantic meal or just put your feet upso we build free time into every holiday.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
All Travelsphere holidays are financially protected by ATOL and ABTA. When you book your holiday with us you can have complete peace of mind your money is 100% protected.
Salerno, Italy
Christmas on the Sorrento Coast
Your base for this festive holiday is the lovely town of Vico Equense, on the Sorrento Peninsula. Take in views of the Bay of Naples and the dramatic peak of Mount Vesuvius.
7 days from £1,649
Your holiday includes
RETURN FLIGHTS + TRANSPORTATION from London, overseas transfers and other transportation
6 NIGHTS in a 4-star hotel
13 MEALS
6 breakfasts (B), 1 traditional Italian Christmas Day lunch (L), 6 dinners (D)
TRAVELSPHERE HOLIDAY DIRECTOR and Specialist Local Guide
Included highlights
• Sorrento tour
• Experience the magical lights in Salerno
• The Royal Palace of Caserta and its gardens
• Medieval Casertavecchia
Optional experiences
• Pompeii from Vico Equense
Day 1 - UK – Rome
Make your own way to the airport for your flight to Rome, after which, we’ll transfer you to the pretty town of Vico Equense, on the Sorrento Peninsula. Your hotel here o ers fantastic views over the Bay of Naples towards Mount Vesuvius. (D)
Day 2 - Christmas Eve – Sorrento
Today we’ll board a train and head for the lively resort of Sorrento. During free time here you can take in breathtaking views, enter one of the resort’s fascinating museums or take a seat at a pavement café. The main square, Piazza Tasso, is the place to head if you want to watch the locals as they finish their Christmas shopping. You could pick up some last-minute gifts yourself - handmade leather goods and the famous limoncello liqueur are specialities here. (B,D)
Day 3 - Christmas Day – Salerno
It’s Christmas Day, so enjoy a leisurely morning before sitting down to a traditional Italian festive lunch at the hotel.
Later, we’ll make our way to Salerno. A walking tour will introduce us to the city’s historic centre, its atmospheric Christmas market and the magical Luci D’Artista, or artists’ lights. This spectacular display of art, which usually follows four themes, fills the streets, piazzas and gardens, and is an enchanting sight. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Boxing Day – Caserta
This morning you’ll take a guided tour of the magnificent Royal Palace of Caserta and its beautiful fountain-filled gardens. This is said to be the world’s largest Royal Palace, and during your tour you will see the Bourbon Nativity in the Royal Apartment. Later, enjoy time at leisure to explore the enchanting medieval hamlet of Casertavecchia, adorned with Christmas lights. (B,D)
Day 5 - Vico Equense – Day at leisure
You could spend today relaxing after the Christmas festivities, or join an optional excursion where you’ll visit the exceptional archaeological site of Pompeii, which we’ll reach by train. This infamous Roman town was frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, when it was buried by hot ash. You’re going to explore in great company, as a Local Guide leads you through its maze of streets. As you stroll you’ll get a fascinating insight into the last days of the people who lived here. You’ll see villas still decorated with brightly painted mosaics, Roman baths and even bakeries that still have their bread ovens and flour grinders intact. (B,D)
and
Please note: Outdoor pools are typically open between May and September.
Call to speak to one of our travel advisors about a room upgrade.
Day 6 - Day at leisure
Spend today exactly as you wish, relax at the hotel or explore Vico Equense. (B,D)
Day 7 - Vico Equense – UK
We will transfer you to the airport today for your flight back to the UK. (B)
Sorrento
The Aequa Hotel is in the heart of the little clitop town of Vico Equense and enjoys wonderful views over the Bay of Naples towards Vesuvius. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and a swimming pool. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning
a TV.
Salerno lights
Vico Equense
On this fabulous holiday you’ll stay in the village of Minori and spend a week exploring the delights of the Amalfi Coast.
8 days from £1,899
Day 1 - UK – Naples
Depart on your flight to Naples today. On arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel in the village of Minori. Settle in before you head to the restaurant for dinner this evening. (D)
Day 2 - Amalfi
Your holiday includes RETURN FLIGHTS + TRANSPORTATION from London, overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage
7 NIGHTS in a 4-star hotel
16 MEALS
7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D) and a welcome drink
TRAVELSPHERE HOLIDAY DIRECTOR and Specialist Local Guide
Included highlights
• Discover Amalfi
• Explore the hilltop town of Ravello
• Visit a winery in the Amalfi Hills and have lunch in a mountain hut
• Discover the ruins of Pompeii
Optional experiences
• Sorrento tour
Your sightseeing of this beautiful region of Italy begins today, as you uncover the charms of one of its most picturesque towns, Amalfi. We will spend the morning in this beautiful town which is set between the mountains and the sea and dominated by an impressive Romanesque cathedral. In the afternoon join us on this exclusive festive pastries feast at the famous Sal De Riso bakery in Minori where we will be served some of the most traditional festive cakes like the Zeppole, Roccoco’, and Panettone served with cappuccino or hot chocolate. (B,D)
Day 3 - Christmas Eve – Paestum & Salerno
This morning will have a scenic drive to Salerno and Paestum; the latter we visit in the morning will give a glimpse of life in the Greek world as we will visit the archaeological site. In the afternoon we will walk the historical centre of Salerno for its festive market until they light up the festive artistry lights before heading back to our hotel in time for the Christmas Eve dinner party. (B,D)
Day 4 - Christmas Day – Day at leisure
On Christmas Day we will relax and perhaps take a stroll along the Lungomare in Minori to make room for our special Christmas lunch. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Boxing Day – Day at leisure
Today relax or join our optional excursion to the lively resort of Sorrento, which is set above the Bay of Naples. There’s stunning scenery, a fantastic variety of elegant restaurants and pavement cafés and many wonderful shopping opportunities. You’ll also get the chance to learn how the area’s famous liqueur, limoncello, is made, with a tasting included of course. (B,D)
Day 6 - Pompeii
Today discover the exceptional archaeological site of Pompeii. You’re going to explore in fantastic company, as a Local Guide leads you through its maze of streets. You’ll get a fascinating insight into the last days of the people who lived here. You’ll see villas still decorated with brightly painted mosaics, Roman baths and an impressive amphitheatre. There are even bakeries here that still have their bread ovens and flour grinders intact. (B,D)
Your hotel
Villa Romana HHHH
Formerly an ancient Roman villa, Hotel Villa Romana is just a few steps away from the beach and is great for relaxing and exploring. Hotel facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, American bar, restaurant and free WiFi. Hotel rooms are classically furnished and equipped with flat-screen TV, mini-bar, air conditioning, hairdryer and safe.
Day 7 - Ravello & The Amalfi Hills
Your included excursion begins with drive to Ravello, which is perched above Amalfi overlooking the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The wonderful gardens of Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo are memorable highlights. Then there is another chance to take in the Amalfi Coast’s sublime scenery as we drive way up into the hills to a winery. As we ascend, enjoy views of steep slopes, where the native grapes are cultivated on terraces. On arrival we’ll taste some wine, before moving on to lunch at il Rifugio Tramonti. You’ll be able to take in the stunning views from the terrace while you eat. Lunch will typically consist of sausages cooked on the open grill,homemade cakes and of course the local herbal liqueurs. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Naples – UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK today.
Hotel
Paestum
Discover Malta at Christmas
Sample the culture, cuisine and ancient heritage of the sun-kissedisland of Malta on this Christmas break.
8 days from £1,799
Your holiday includes
RETURN FLIGHTS + TRANSPORTATION from London, overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage
7 NIGHTS in a 4-star hotel
14 MEALS
7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 5 dinners (D) including a Christmas Eve festive dinner and Christmas Day lunch
LOCAL FLAVOURS
Traditional Maltese meal
TRAVELSPHERE HOLIDAY DIRECTOR and Specialist Local Guide
Included highlights
• Valletta city tour including the Saluting Battery
• Walking tour of the three cities of Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa
Explore ancient Mdina
• Visit to the catacombes of Rabat
• Marvel at Mosta’s domed Church of Santa Maria
• Evening of traditional food, folk music and dance
Optional experiences
• Gozo island visit with lunch
• Visit Marsaxlokk and see the Blue Grotto
Day 1 - UK – Malta
Make your own way to the airport for your flight to Malta. (D)
Day 2 - Three Cities & Mosta
A day of exploration starts with Mosta Village and a guided visit of its Domed Church of Santa Maria, which was modelled on Rome’s Pantheon. Next, enjoy a walking tour of the three fortified cities of Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea. Picturesque and full of history, it’s a fascinating place to learn about Maltese history and culture. (B)
Day 3 - Valletta
After breakfast, get to know Malta’s capital Valletta, a World Heritage city brimming with historical sites. You’ll head to the Barrakka Gardens to enjoy views of the famous Grand Harbour. You’ll then visit the Saluting Battery, where one of eight replica cannons is fired daily at midday. It promises to be a special experience, as we meet the volunteer responsible for firing the gun and they tell us more about the history of this ritual. Afterwards, we’ll explore Valletta’s main streets on foot. (B)
Day 4 - Christmas Eve – Day at leisure
Today is a free day, so it’s entirely up to you how you spend it. Alternatively join us on an optional excursion to the island of Gozo, a short ferry ride away. We’ll step ashore on Gozo and discover some of the island’s highlights. We will enjoy lunch on a private estate overlooking the medieval village of Għarb before a walking tour of the medieval city of Victoria. Our final stop is at the Qala Belvedere to admire the views. Tonight, we’ll gather together for a Christmas Eve meal back at the hotel. (B,D)
Day 5 - Christmas Day – Day at leisure
It’s Christmas Day, so enjoy a relaxed day at your hotel, which includes a special festive bu et lunch. (B,L,D)
Day
6 -
Boxing Day – Qawra –Folklore evening
You’re free to relax or explore at your own pace today, alternatively join us on our optional tour to Marsaxlokk, a fishing village on the island’s south coast with a picturesque harbour filled with colourful boats. From here we will enjoy a visit to the Blue Grotto Caves.
This evening we will all get together over a fabulous dinner whilst watching a jovial story of Maltese history told through dance - a truly unforgettable night. (B,D)
A new, world-class destination in Qawra, overlooking breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Located near the town of Bugibba, as well as St. Paul’s Bay, where whilst walking along the promenade here you can get a very clear view of the beautiful St Paul’s Islands.
Call to speak to one of our travel advisors about a room upgrade.
Day 7 - Rabat, Dingli & Mdina
Today starts with a visit to the historic town of Rabat, famous for its well-preserved catacombs that date back to the Roman times. Following this, lunch will be in the village of Dingli, prepared with ingredients freshly picked from the family-run farm located 200m away. Also, we will learn about their traditional process of making olive oil. This unique experience will give you a moving, heart-warming taste of rural and family life on Malta. After lunch, we’ll visit Mdina, famously referred to as the Silent City. This former capital city is enveloped entirely by fortified walls and boasts a labyrinth of narrow passageways adorned with elegant Patrician homes, baroque churches, convents and opulent palaces. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Malta – UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. (B)
Departure dates & prices
21 December 2025 From £1,799
Flight upgrade available Single Room supplement from £150
Flights and hotels are subject to change and will be confirmed within your final documentation.
Grand Harbour, Valletta MALTA
Your hotel
Ax Odycy Hotel HHHH
Mdina
A Week in Andalucia at Christmas
This relaxing holiday gives you the chance to unwind and soak up the sun whilst discovering the
8 days from £1,699
Your holiday includes
RETURN FLIGHTS + TRANSPORTATION from London and regional airports, overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage
7 NIGHTS in a 4-star hotel
15 MEALS
7 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 7 dinners (D) including a Festive Gala Dinner on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
LOCAL FLAVOURS
Light tapas lunch in the city of its invention, Seville
TRAVELSPHERE HOLIDAY DIRECTOR and Specialist Local Guide
Included highlights
• Sightseeing in the city of Cordoba
• Explore Andalucia’s regional capital, Seville
• Enjoy a light lunch at one of Seville’s fine tapas bars
• Granada tour and the Alhambra Palace
Optional experiences
Antequera, El Torcal National Park and the Dolmens
• Visit the cli -top town of Ronda
• Tour of cosmopolitan Malaga
Day 1 - UK – Malaga
Depart on your flight to Malaga today. On arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel and you’ll have time to relax and unwind before dinner this evening. (D)
Day 2 - Granada
You really can’t visit this region of Spain without a trip to the stunning Alhambra Palace. Standing high on a hill overlooking Granada, your tour not only includes the grand halls, courtyards and fountains of the palace, but also the lovely Generalife Gardens. Later, we’ll explore Granada, where you’ll see a mix of Moorish and Spanish architecture. (B,D)
Day 3 - Antequera - Day at leisure
Today you can choose to explore on your own, or join us on this optional excursion to discover medieval Antequera. Highlights include El Torcal National Park and the Dolmens, the enormous burial chambers dating back to prehistoric times. (B,D)
Day 4 - Cordoba
Today you’re going to discover the city of Cordoba, which sits in a beautiful position on a bend of the Guadalquivir River. It’s a fascinating place and the highlight of your visit is sure to be the dazzling Mezquita, or Great Mosque, which dates to the 8th century. You’ll also spend time exploring the labyrinth of winding streets and flower-filled courtyards in the Jewish quarter (B,D)
Day 5 - Christmas Eve – Antequerra
Time at leisure may be just what you need today, so why not relax at your hotel. However, if you’re keen to discover more your Holiday Director will be hosting an optional excursion to the cli -top town of Ronda. You’ll see the 600ft deep gorge, El Tajo, and the ancient stonebridge, the Puente Nuevo. We’ll also leave time for a leisurely stroll around Ronda’s cobblestone streets. This evening, we will gather for a Christmas Eve bu et gala dinner. (B,D)
Day 6 - Christmas Day – Antequerra
Today is yours to enjoy. Perfect for relaxing, reading and catching up with fellow travellers and looking forward to this evenings Festive dinner. You can,if you wish, join us on an optional excursion to Malaga, a cosmopolitan city on the Costa del Sol, famous as the birthplace of the celebrated artist Pablo Picasso. The city is set on a beautiful bay of the Mediterranean and we’ll take in wonderful views from the two Moorish citadels, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro. (B,D)
from the beautiful city of Antequera, dubbed ‘the crossroads of Andalucia’. The hotel o ers guests well-appointed rooms, bu et restaurant and a bar & lounge area perfect for relaxing, reading and catching up with fellow travellers about your day.
Day 7 - Boxing Day - Seville
You’re heading to Seville today, Andalucia’s regional capital. On your tour, highlights include the Gothic Cathedral and Plaza de España which displays a beautifully tiled alcove for each of Spain’s provinces. We’ll also take a wander through the Barrio Santa Cruz area. Tapas bars are plentiful in this maze of lanes and is the perfect location for us to end our tour with a light lunch at one of these fine tapas bars. You might sample dishes such as bravas patatas, chorizo and calamares a la romana – Seville is credited with its invention after all!. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Malaga – UK
We’ll transfer you to the airport for our flight to the UK today. (B)
Departure dates & prices
20 December 2025 From £1,699
FLY FROM AN AIRPORT NEAR YOU
Fly from London, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds/Bradford & Manchester
(Subject to availability, supplements may apply) Visit TRAVELSPHERE.CO.UK for latest dates & prices
Flight upgrade available
Single Room supplement from £400
Flights and hotels are subject to change and will be confirmed within your final documentation.
Ronda Antequera Malaga 7
The 4-star Antequera Hills Hotel sits only a short walk
Malaga
Christmas on the Lisbon Coast
Fairy-tale towns, sumptuous palaces and seafaring cities are highlights of this festive holiday on the Lisbon Coast, and they are all the more magical at Christmas.
7 days from £1,749
Your holiday includes
RETURN FLIGHTS + TRANSPORTATION from London and regional airports, overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage
6 NIGHTS in a 4-star hotel
13 MEALS
6 breakfasts (B), 1 festive lunch (L) and 6 dinners (D) TRAVELSPHERE HOLIDAY DIRECTOR and Specialist Local Guide
Included highlights
• Explore Lisbon, the Portuguese Capital
• Visit the Medieval town of Obidos
• Discover UNESCO-listed Sintra and visit the seaside resort of Cascais
• Marvel at the Splendour of Mafra’s National Palace
Day 1 - UK – Ericeira
Depart on your flight to Lisbon today. On arrival we will transfer you to your hotel in the seaside resort of Ericeira, which boasts lovely beaches and a delightful centre. Once you’ve settled in, why not head out to explore before dinner at the hotel this evening. (D)
Day 2 - Lisbon
We’re going to discover Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, on today’s panoramic tour. The city is home to many historic attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower (the Tower of Saint Vincent), which rests on the bank of the Tagus River. It was first built in the 1500s to defend the city. Later it became a lighthouse and customs house, marking the starting and end points of many sea voyages in the 16th century. Today it’s a symbol of Portugal’s power and maritime links during the Age of Discovery. Later we’ll gather again back at hotel for dinner. (B,D)
Day 3 - Christmas Eve - Óbidos
Today you’ll visit the hilltop town of Óbidos, considered one of the most picturesque in Portugal. Its walled historic centre is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses sporting terracotta roofs, while the main street is lined with traditional shops selling crafts, chocolate and cherry liqueur. You’ll be back at your hotel in time to get ready for a Christmas Eve dinner. (B,D)
Day 4 - Christmas Day - Ericeira - Day at leisure
It’s Christmas Day and you can spend it doing just as you please. We’ll get together at the hotel for lunch, and later join the group again for a festive dinner. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Boxing Day - Mafra
You’ll head o this morning to the Baroque National Palace at Mafra. When work began on this monumental complex in 1717, no expense was spared with approximately 45,000 men working on the palace, Basilica and monastery. During your visit a highlight will be the magnificent library, decorated with marble and exotic wood and containing around 35,000 volumes. (B,D)
Day 6 - Sintra,
Cascais & Cabo Da Roca
Your included excursion today first takes you to UNESCO-listed Sintra, which is located at the foot of a mountain, surrounded by forest and dotted with extravagant villas and palaces. You will visit the former summer residence of the king of Portugal, noted for its beautiful ceramic tiles and painted ceilings, before heading to Cascais. Once a sleepy fishing village, this stylish seaside resort boasts fine beaches and
Your hotel
The 4 star Hotel Vila Gale is located in Ericeira, close to the beach and o ers exceptional panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and spa. Guest rooms feature private facilities, complementary wi-fi, TV, mini-bar, safe and hairdryer.
a charming Old Town. The main street, Rua Direita, is the place to shop for local handicrafts, and the Paula Rego Museum showcases works by this renowned Portuguese artist. Your day concludes with a visit to the dramatic surroundings of Cabo da Roca lighthouse (weather dependent), the most westerly point of continental Europe. Head back to Ericeira for your final evening. (B,D)
Day 7 - Ericeira – UK
Today we’ll transfer you to the airport and fly home. (B)
Departure dates &
22 December 2025 From £1,749
FLY FROM AN AIRPORT NEAR YOU
Fly from London & Manchester (Subject to availability, supplements may apply) Visit TRAVELSPHERE.CO.UK for latest dates & prices
Flight
available Single Room supplement from £350
Flights and hotels are subject to change and will be confirmed within your final documentation.
Lisbon Cascais
Arrabida National Park
Sintra
Mafra
Ericeira Cabo da Roca Obidos
Evora 7
Vila Gale Ericeira HHHH
Jordan’s Ancient Wonders at Christmas
Discover Jordan’s ancient treasures and biblical sites on this unforgettable holiday at Christmas.
8 days from £2,599
Your holiday includes
RETURN FLIGHTS + TRANSPORTATION from London, overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage
7 NIGHTS
7 nights in 4-star hotels including 1 night in a Desert Camp
15 MEALS
7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L) 6 dinners (D) including Christmas Eve gala dinner and welcome drink
TRAVELSPHERE HOLIDAY DIRECTOR and Specialist Local Guide
Included highlights
Panoramic tour of old and new Amman Tour of the preserved Roman city of Jerash Visit Mount Nebo and Madaba, where St George’s Church houses the Mosaic Map
• Discover the ancient Shobak fortress
• Walking tour of Petra
• Explore ‘Little Petra’
• Desert camp stay in Wadi Rum
• Visit to The Dead Sea
Optional experiences
• Stargazing in Wadi Rum
• Visit the shores of the sacred River Jordan
Day 1 - Amman
Make your own way to the airport for your flight to Amman. On arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel.
Day 2 - Amman
A full day of discovery begins with a morning tour to Jerash, one of the largest and bestpreserved Roman cities in existence. Highlights here are the Temples of Artemis and Zeus and Hadrian’s Triumphal Arch. For lunch today we’ll visit Beit Khayrat, a woman-owned cafe in nearby Souf for a traditional Jordanian meal. You’ll also see many of Amman’s treasures, including a Roman amphitheatre, the citadel and the King Abdullah Mosque. This evening we will head to a restaurant for dinner. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - Amman – Petra
We’re heading south today. Our first stop is Mount Nebo, an elevated ridge that rises more than 700 metres above sea level and is cited as the point from which Moses saw the promised land. We’ll then head to Madaba, the home of the Mosaic Map. This treasure of early Christianity dates back to the 6th century. The rose-red city of Petra is our final destination. (B,D)
Day 4 - Christmas Eve - Petra
Today’s the day you will get to explore Petra on a guided walking tour. This extraordinary city carved into the sandstone is concealed beyond a long, narrow gorge – the Siq. Get ready for your first glimpse of the magnificent Treasury Building, it will not disappoint. There will be opportunity for you to explore the area at leisure before returning to the hotel.
This evening, join your travelling companions for a Christmas Eve gala dinner at your hotel. (B,D)
Day 5 - Christmas Day - Petra – Wadi Rum
Start the day with a visit to Siq al-Barid, a northern suburb of Petra known as ‘Little Petra’. We then head to the desert of Wadi Rum. With sand dunes and sandstone rock formations of all shapes, sizes and colours, this magical landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression. You’ll stay tonight in the heart of Wadi Rum, in your own authentic Bedouin-style tent. Enjoy an included dinner of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. After, maybe join an optional stargazing excursion in the company of an expert guide. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Boxing Day – Wadi Rum – Dead Sea
Your journey continues today as you head towards the
This is the
Feature Desert Camp
This unique accommodation is located in the heart of the Wadi Rum Desert and o ers guests a magical experience. You’ll stay in a Bedouinstyle tent with private facilities, a fan and terrace o ering mountain views.
on earth, and as you stay here for two nights you’ll have the chance to experience its unique waters, renowned for their buoyancy and therapeutic qualities. (B,D)
Day 7 - Dead Sea - Day at leisure
You can spend today at leisure, or you might choose to join an optional excursion to the nearby River Jordan and the biblical site of the baptism of Jesus. (B,D)
Day 8 - Amman – UK
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)
Travelsphere cares.
On this holiday you will visit Beit Khayrat Souf, a women-owned and managed café in Souf, started with the purpose of combating women’s unemployment and building a strong community of women leaders. In partnership with
The Dead Sea JORDAN
Nebo
The Treasury, Petra
Wadi Rum
Beyond the Golden Triangle at Christmas
Delve into India’s captivating culture and rich history - explore the Taj Mahal and search for the elusive Bengal tiger.
10 days from £2,699
Your holiday includes
RETURN FLIGHTS + TRANSPORTATION from London, overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage
8 NIGHTS in 4 & 5-star and heritage hotels plus 1 night in flight
19 MEALS
8 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 8 dinners (D) and welcome drink
LOCAL FLAVOURS
Enjoy a Jaipur cultural dinner
TRAVELSPHERE HOLIDAY DIRECTOR
Included highlights
• Tour of New Delhi
• Discover Old Delhi on a cycle rickshaw
• Dawn visit to the Taj Mahal
• Agra Fort and Itmad ud Daulah tomb
• The deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri
• Search for tigers on a morning Ranthambore safari
Afternoon safari in Ranthambore
• Stay in a charming heritage hotel with cultural evening experience
• Visit the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur
• Venture up to the hilltop Amber Fort
Optional experiences
• Performance of ‘Mohabbet The Taj’
• Ranthambore Fort
Day 1 - UK to Delhi
Make your own way to the airport for your flight to Delhi.
Day 2 - Delhi
On arrival in Delhi, we’ll transfer you to your comfortable hotel, the rest of the day will be at the hotel for you to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities. (L,D)
Day 3 - Delhi to Agra
We’ll start our sightseeing in the 17th century walled city of Old Delhi, we’ll explore by foot as we take a stroll through the fabled street bazaar, Chandni Chowk, and admire the impressive marble domes of Jama Masjid Mosque. We’ll also visit Gandhi Smriti Museum, the location where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life and the place of his assassination. And enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the walled city of Old Delhi. As we go, we’ll delve into its maze of crowded streets and thronging markets, and see the spectacular exterior of the Red Fort.
Next, we tour New Delhi, a spacious, imperial city created by the British in 1911. We’ll drive through elegant boulevards to see the iconic India Gate and imposing Parliament House, which are grand reminders of the city’s colonial past. We’ll also see Humayun’s Tomb, built in 1570 and said to have inspired the Taj Mahal and Bangla Saheb Gurudwara - a Sikh Temple. Our day concludes with a drive to Agra. (B,D)
Day 4 - Agra
Get ready to experience one of the highlights of your holiday today – a dawn visit to the incredible Taj Mahal. This magnificent mausoleum, built by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz, is one of the world’s most glorious sights. Our next stop is at the redsandstone Agra Fort, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, then we’ll see the Itmad
ud Daulah tomb. This was the first monument in India to be built entirely from marble and is known as the ‘Baby Taj’. If you would like to enjoy an evening out, there’s the option to watch a performance of Mohabbat the Taj, about Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife. (B,D)
Day 5 - Agra to Ranthambore
Our first stop today is at the deserted, fortified city of Fatehpur Sikri. A fine example of Mughal architecture, its highlights include a huge mosque and an array of palaces and pavilions. Later sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery with your fellow travellers as you are taken to Ranthambore. (B,D)
Day 6 - Ranthambore
A thrilling day lies ahead, with not just one but two safaris in Ranthambore National Park, said to be the best game reserve in India. On morning and afternoon game drives we’ll make our way through thick forest, where pretty waterfalls provide the perfect habitat for more than 300 species of birds. Our knowledgeable Local Guide will help you to spot other residents of the park, including crocodile, hyena, jackal and more. Keep your fingers crossed for a sighting of the elusive tiger, or the even rarer leopard. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Christmas Eve - Ranthambore to Jaipur
This morning you could choose to join our optional excursion to Ranthambore Fort, to take in impressive views over the National Park. We’ll then travel to our next destination the city of Jaipur, where we stay at a heritage hotel, originally built as nobleman’s home in rajput architecture style, o ering a tranquil setting just a short distance from the bustle of the city.
This afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, perhaps you’ll head out to explore or simply relax by the pool or in the traditional courtyard. Later, we’re going to enjoy a cultural evening of local dinner and entertainment. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Christmas Day - Jaipur
Today is the day we will explore the famous ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur. It’s the capital of Rajasthan and we’ll see its fabulous pink and ochrecoloured buildings set amongst barren hills. Your day begins with a short drive to the marvellous Amber Fort, a sprawling 17th-century stronghold which sits on a hilltop overlooking the desert. We’ll step inside to see its highlights, which include the eerie Temple of Kali and the enchanting Hall of Pleasures. You’ll also see the jewel-like Palace of Mirrors, a beautiful hall where the walls, ceilings and columns are completely covered in tiny pieces of sparkling glass.
We’ll then get our bearings on a guided tour, which includes a visit to the City Palace, an impressive array of courtyards, gardens and regal buildings. The palace is also home to a museum that boasts a fine collection of Mughal treasures including paintings, carpets and silverware. Next, we’ll drive past the elaborate facade of the Palace of the Winds. This pyramid-shaped building is adorned with ornate lattice-covered windows where the ladies of the court could stand unseen, watching over the city.
You’ll then have time to browse the colourful ceramics and textiles in the Old Town’s bustling markets. (B,D)
Day 9 - Boxing Day - Jaipur to Delhi
Today we will have a morning at leisure to enjoy our heritage hotel or to explore even more. Later in the day we will drive back to Delhi and dinner will be served at our hotel this evening. (B,D)
Day 10 - Delhi to UK
This morning we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return flight to the UK. As you are travelling westwards, you will arrive later the same day. (B)
Memories to bring home
A safari in Ranthambore National Park is incredible - watching out for the varied wildlife with the anticipation of seeing a tiger. Your feature hotel Alsisar Haveli Hotel, Jaipur
The grandeur of this stately setting has attracted Maharajas of Rajasthan for over five centuries. The Alsisar Haveli is located in the heart of the pink city of Jaipur yet tucked away in its own peace and quiet. The Rajput architecture style hotel was built in 1892 as a nobleman home and more recently converted into a heritage hotel. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar/lounge, swimming pool, spa and a roof terrace o ering views of Nahargh Fort. Rooms are decorated with vintage furniture with modern amenities such as air conditioning, TV and private bathrooms.
Taj Mahal
Fatehpur Sikri
Amber Fort
