Agents Escorted Tours Brochure Ireland

FA S C I N AT I N G E U R O P E A N & WO RLDWI D E TO U R S 2 01 9

See page 56

See page 122

Our sixth tour with Riviera “Travel and we have never been disappointed. ”

Mrs J Etherington

See page 108

See page 64

What a “wonderful

holiday! It far exceeded our expectations – memories of it are beginning to settle in my mind and will last forever.

”

Ms Ford

See page 100

See page 12

This was an experience of a lifetime, made seamless by our “excellent tour manager. ”

Mrs Bennett-Everington

Cover image: Venice, Italy (pg20)

2

LET OUR PA SSION INSPIRE YOURS Whether it’s cruising between the towering limestone cliffs of Halong Bay or sampling delicious tapas with the Sevillanos, all our holidays promise new opportunities for discovery.

Enlightening visits to the must-see places as well as the hidden gems are always included, many with local experts whose eye-opening insights connect you with the heart of your destination. You’ll really see and do so much more with Riviera Travel.

I have the greatest pride in the reputation we have built over 35 years for outstanding service, quality and value. Delivering meaningful experiences that create lifelong memories is a passion for the whole team. And of course, we’re fully bonded members of ABTA and ATOL, so you have complete peace of mind when you travel with us.

I hope you’ll be inspired by our new brochure, which includes brand-new tours for 2019, and I look forward to welcoming you on one of our holidays.

David Clemson Managing Director

WHAT’S N E W UMBRIA, PERUGIA & ASSISI: THE HEART OF ITALY Discover the unspoilt region of Umbria.

We take you through rolling countryside, remarkably preserved hilltop towns, into the Frasassi Caves and onto Lake Trasimeno.

See page 12.

JORDAN & PETRA Journey with us to Jordan, a remarkable country with extraordinary landscapes and world-class monuments. Discover the ‘Rose-red City’ of Petra, bob in the Dead Sea, marvel at the desert’s vastness in Wadi Rum and experience Jordan’s renowned hospitality.

See page 98.

DEEP SOUTH PLUS TEXAS Experience the unique culture, history, music of America’s Deep South, home of the blues, plus the charms and classic images of the ‘Lone Star State’, Texas.

See page 104.

SRI LANKA PLUS MALDIVES CRUISE On selected departures, our tour of Sri Lanka continues with a unique cruise exploring the best of the Maldives. Swim, sunbathe and snorkel – or do as little as you please.

See page 116.

JOURNEY ON THE MEKONG CRUISE Cruise the mighty Mekong River through the heart of South East Asia and explore fascinating waterborne worlds, from floating villages to colourful markets, and discover the gems of Vietnam and Cambodia.

See page 126.

Petra, Jordan

3

THE DE TAIL S THAT MAKE THE DIFFERENCE Experience a holiday with a difference whenever you travel with us. Choose from a wide range of holidays to more than 140 destinations across the world, be it a short city break or a 16-day adventure.

METICULOUSLY CRAFTED ITINERARIES Every itinerary has been thoughtfully crafted by our experts and provides fascinating perspectives on the culture, history, gastronomy, art and architecture of the places we visit. And much like a well-told story, every detail is carefully considered, from the stops we make to the routes we take. We ensure there’s ample free time, so you can continue exploring at your own pace.

THE BEST TOUR MANAGERS & GUIDES Ancient ruins, historic towns and unfamiliar landscapes all come to life in the company of our local guides and tour managers. Our specialists were chosen not only for their wealth of knowledge, but also their flair for engaging audiences and sharing eye-opening insights. It’s like travelling with a friend who happens to know the secrets of every destination.

OUR UNIQUE STYLE Perhaps our most distinguishing feature is the care we show our customers. We’re a friendly team who are passionate about travel and genuinely care about making your holiday the best it can be. We make every effort to get to know you by name and your preferences by heart. We listen and take on board your feedback for future improvements. And if anything does go wrong, we promise to put it right. After all, we would love for you to come back again – as most of our customers do.

Cruise Norway’s breathtaking fjords

4

Explore the Mekong’s fascinating waterborne worlds

AWARD-WINNING REPUTATION Since our inception in 1984, we have been consistently recognised for outstanding service, value and quality.

For six years, Which? has awarded us the highly coveted Recommended Provider status.

“

The whole tour was fantastic, the trips were all very well-organised and the places were beautiful.

”

- Ms C Fitchett

PEACE OF MIND Our tour managers are with you throughout the trip to ensure your experience is exceptional. In the unlikely event of an emergency during the journey, you can always seek their assistance or call our dedicated 24-hour helpline to speak to a member of our team in the UK.

PERSONALISED EXPERIENCES

OUR PRICE PROMISE

Our experts have gone to great lengths to curate each holiday so you enjoy the very best of your chosen destination. To enhance your experience, we offer hand-picked highlights which you may wish to add to your holiday. And to make your trip extra special, we offer upgrades and extensions as well.

Call us old fashioned, but we believe your holiday should be fairly priced without any compromise on quality. That’s why we don’t discount our prices, why there are no seasonal sales and why there are no deals for booking early or late. This means you can book with confidence knowing that you’re always getting the very best value with honest and straightforward prices all year round.

STAYS WITH A SPECIAL TOUCH Our carefully chosen accommodation is primarily rated four stars and well-located. We tend to work with privately owned hotels that offer something special, be it a rooftop bar with panoramic views or a delightful position close to the old town centre.

tour manager was so committed to “ Our ensuring everything went as smoothly as possible and we got to see everything, often from the best positions at the best time.

”

stood out for me was the quality “ What of the service, which was unbelievable.

I have never experienced a more committed team in my life.

”

- Mr W Royce

- Mr Kirby

OUR PROMISE TO YOU 1. So much more included Insightful guided tours and visits, all included in the price.

YOUR COMFORT IS ASSURED

2. Fully protected by ABTA & ATOL

You have the option to upgrade to premium economy or business TED class on many long-haul flights. On arrival, we continue ROTECbyOL P Y L L & AT internal comfortable, air-conditioned coaches. OnFU longerBT journeys, YA A flights or train travel are included to make Bthe most of our time.

3. Prices that feel just right

RE CH MO SO MULUDED Enjoy scheduled flights at convenient times from INCDublin or Belfast.

FEEL THAT S E C I PR IGHT JUST R

We’ve been in the business for 35 years, so we’re fully bonded by ABTA & ATOL for your complete peace of mind.

No discounts, no sales, no gimmicks. Just honest and straightforward pricing all year round.

5

MEET OUR E XPERTS Our expertise is a key ingredient in ensuring the success of our holidays. Everyone at Riviera Travel, from the product specialists to the tour managers and local guides, goes the extra mile so you get the most from your trip.

UNRIVALLED EXPERTISE Throughout every Riviera Travel holiday, you’ll be accompanied by an experienced tour manager, whose sole mission is to ensure you have a superb time. They play several roles most adeptly: a group leader who works tirelessly to oversee every single detail, a destination expert able to offer revealing insights into local life, and a thoughtful friend ready to listen and lend a hand when needed – nothing is too much trouble for these seasoned travellers.

Customers have described our tour managers as knowledgeable, kind, well-organised and resourceful, as well as having a great sense of humour and a genuine passion for the places we visit. Many have been with us for more than a decade, some even two. For them, being a tour manager is not just a job – it’s a passion, and you’ll learn far more from them than you would any guidebook.

worked with Riviera Travel for 20 years and “ I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. It’s inspiring to be part of a team that’s clearly passionate about customers and the amazing places we visit.

”

Mike, Tour Manager

team really do “The go the extra mile.

personally “Having been on a number of our tours means we understand exactly what happens, so we can give helpful advice and allay any concerns.

We go all over looking for that something special.

We genuinely want to give our customers the best holidays.

”

”

Joanne, Head of Product (Short Haul)

Jane, Reservations

EXPERT PARTNERS We partner with highly respected experts in various fields on a number of tours to help you uncover different perspectives. Having presented critically acclaimed television programmes for the BBC, they are well-poised to take you on an exciting journey through time and culture.

Andrew Graham-Dixon, Art critic

6

Lucy Worsley, Historian and author

Susie Barrie & Peter Richards, Masters of Wine

Dan Cruickshank, Art historian

PERSONALIS E YOUR HOLIDAY Travel offers not just a chance to see new sights, but the hope of encountering new moments of wonder. While our itineraries include so much, we also offer a wide range of additional experiences to ensure you have every opportunity to embrace the places we visit. From feasting on authentic local cuisine to marvelling at the world’s myriad wonders from exhilarating perspectives, these rewarding experiences can make your trip one to remember forever.

ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY Immerse yourself in fascinating cultures around the world. Be moved by the melodramatic masterpieces of Mozart in a Baroque palace, or skip the queues and discover some of the world’s finest art on a guided tour of the jaw-dropping Sistine Chapel. Perhaps catch a moving flamenco performance filled with passion in Seville, a city synonymous with this popular art form.

GASTRONOMY The world is a melting pot of mouthwatering flavours waiting to be savoured. Try your hand at mastering the culinary delights of Japan with local cooks, or join a four-hour walking food tour through Rome’s vibrant Trastevere area. We also offer a choice of dining options on some tours, so you can have dinner in your hotel or dine independently to unearth the area’s gastronomic treasures.

TRAVEL WITH A TWIST There’s nothing quite like a fresh perspective to take your trip from fine to phenomenal. Soar to the skies in a helicopter to fully appreciate the majesty of the Alps, or gaze in awe at the mind-boggling magnitude of the Grand Canyon. Perhaps learn about the diverse wildlife of South Africa on an eyeopening bush walk with a ranger. Or stay a night in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.

See the Grand Canyon by helicopter

Sistine Chapel

UPGRADES Our holidays include scheduled flights and carefully chosen accommodation, but you also have the freedom and flexibility to choose an upgrade to make your experience absolutely unforgettable.

HOTELS Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or prefer a room with a balcony and sea view, why not elevate your experience and upgrade your hotel room?

AIR TRAVEL On longer flights, you may prefer to travel in Premium Economy or Business Class for the extra space and that touch of luxury.

Upgrade your flight

Look out for the many ways to personalise your holiday throughout this brochure.

Ask your travel agent to pre-book these hand-picked experiences.

For details, please refer to the itineraries.

7

THOUGHTFUL INCLUSIONS WITH E VERY TOUR INSIGHTFUL GUIDED TOURS AND VISITS Every day brings new opportunities for discovery – visits are included, often with an expert local guide to share eyeopening insights and give you a full experience of your destination.

OUTSTANDING TOUR MANAGERS A caring and professional Riviera Travel tour manager is with you throughout the trip on every tour to ensure your experience is unforgettable.

FREE TIME TO EXPLORE Our itineraries are thoughtfully balanced with free days and unguided visits, so you can wander at your own pace.

Perhaps make the most of your trip with a ‘Personalise Your Holiday’ option.

PERSONAL SERVICE Enjoy award-winning service from our friendly team. In the unlikely event of an emergency during your holiday, you can always seek the assistance of your tour manager or call our dedicated 24-hour helpline.

HAND-PICKED HOTELS Stay in well-located hotels primarily rated four stars and carefully selected by our product experts for the right blend of comfort, service, amenities and, of course, location.

BREAKFAST AND DINING OPTIONS Most hotel stays come with breakfast daily. We also include selected meals on many tours – some in carefully chosen restaurants. In destinations renowned for their cuisine we offer dining options, so you can dine at your hotel or seek out a restaurant of your choice.

LOCAL DEPARTURES Enjoy scheduled flights from Dublin or Belfast.

FINANCIAL PROTECTION For your peace of mind, our holidays are bonded with ITAA, ATOL and IATA.

8

THERE’S SO MUCH MORE TO DISCOVER Visit our website to see our entire collection of holidays. From five-star river cruising to unique sailing holidays in the Adriatic, there is a Riviera Travel holiday to suit every traveller.

LUXURY RIVER CRUISES IN EUROPE Choose from 14 inspired itineraries that take you along Europe’s iconic waterways, from the Douro to the Danube. Sail aboard splendid five-star ships and enjoy stops in fascinating towns and villages, with many guided tours and excursions included.

Five-star river cruising

Deluxe suite, MS Douro Splendour

ADRIATIC YACHT CRUISES Sail between the idyllic islands and less-visited ports along the stunning Adriatic coast on superb four-star yacht cruisers that carry up to just 40 guests. We offer five itineraries that include the stunning highlights of the coast and opportunities to swim in idyllic locations, making for a very special cruise.

Superb yacht cruisers

Dubrovnik

9

CONTENTS EUROPE I TA LY NEW Umbria, Perugia & Assisi........................................................12 Pompeii, Capri & the Bay of Naples............................................. 16 Lake Garda, Venice & Verona.......................................................... 20 Lake Como, St Moritz & the Bernina Express...........................24 Lake Maggiore, Orta & the Matterhorn..................................... 28 Puglia, Lecce & Vieste......................................................................... 32 Classical Italy: Florence, Siena, Assisi & Rome...................... 36 Hidden Italy: Padova, Vicenza & Mantova............................... 40 Sicily............................................................................................................. 44 S PA I N NEW Spain’s Basque Country, La Rioja & Burgos.................. 48 Classical Spain: Seville, Córdoba & Granada (plus )........................................................................ 52 Madrid, Salamanca & Toledo........................................................... 56 P O RT U G A L Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley................................................. 60 C ROAT I A Dubrovnik, the Dalmatian Coast & Montenegro.................. 64

FR A N C E Timeless Provence................................................................................. 76 S W I T ZE R L A N D Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland.................................................... 80 GERMANY Berlin, Dresden, Meissen & Colditz ............................................. 84 S C A N D I N AV I A Iceland......................................................................................................... 86 Norway....................................................................................................... 88 POLAND Krakow........................................................................................................ 90 M A LTA Malta Uncovered.................................................................................... 92 C Y PRUS Discover Northern Cyprus................................................................ 94 ESPECIALLY FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS

AUS T R I A & T H E C ZEC H R E PU B L I C Lakes & Mountains of Austria......................................................... 68 Prague, Vienna, Bohemia & the Danube Valley..................... 72

Travelling on your own doesn’t have to mean travelling alone. Our Classical Spain tour is also available just for solo travellers.

WORLDWIDE J O R DA N NEW Jordan & Petra............................................................................ 98 A FR I C A South Africa............................................................................................100

ASIA India & Shimla....................................................................................... 112 NEW Sri Lanka plus Maldives cruise ......................................... 116 Vietnam & Cambodia........................................................................122 NEW Journey on the Mekong cruise..........................................126 Japan: Land of the Rising Sun........................................................132

THE AMERICAS Deep South USA plus Texas............................................................104 Peru with Amazon...............................................................................108

HOW TO BOO K Contact your preferred travel agent to book or visit www.rivieratravel.ie for more information.

10

WE TAKE YOU TO TH ES E PL ACES, TOO. C ALL FOR DE TAIL S .

Washington DC, New York City & Niagara Falls by train

A Grand Tour of China 16 days

10 days

Travel between America’s greatest cities and see marvellous Niagara Falls.

California & The Golden West 15 days

Explore China’s greatest cultural legacies, iconic monuments, astounding palaces and astonishing scenery.

Victoria Falls, Botswana Safari & Cape Town 11 days

Explore the world’s most famous National Parks, intriguing Native American culture, amazing desert landscapes, the lush forests and lofty peaks of Yosemite and vibrant, pulsating cities.

Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer 9 days

See spectacular Victoria Falls, wildlife-rich Botswana and incredible Cape Town.

Costa Rica: from the Caribbean to the Pacific 13 days

Marvel at Canada’s breathtaking scenery on an incredible train journey.

Explore one of the world’s most biodiverse countries on the planet.

11

NEW

UMBRIA, PERUGIA & ASSISI T H E H E A R T O F I TA LY 8 days from only €1,169pp

Journey to the green heart of Italy to discover the unspoilt region of Umbria. This tour will take you through endless rolling countryside, up soaring hills topped with time-warp towns, down into the magical Frasassi Caves and onto the sparkling waters of Lake Trasimeno.

Italy’s rich mix of archaeological treasures, fine art and architecture, hearty cuisine and mountainous Mediterranean landscape has long proved irresistible to visitors. Unreservedly romantic and deeply influenced by religion, it’s capable of stirring emotion in a way that’s unrivalled worldwide. And despite possessing these attributes in abundance, Umbria slips under the radar. Its unique position as the only region in Italy that doesn’t border another country or the sea ensures it remains one of the country’s most authentic areas.

Umbria isn’t the place to see showy tourist attractions you’d recognise from the guidebooks at a glance. This region quietly goes about its laidback local life, proudly preserving its trademark hilltop towns and protecting its landscape of fertile green plains, which dip into valleys and slope up forested hillsides to the towering crags of the Apennine mountains. It’s also fiercely proud of its incredible history traceable back to ancient Etruria, which expanded over central

12

Italy between 750 BC and 500 BC, before eventually succumbing to Roman rule. Two of the destinations on this tour were among the 12 major Etruscan cities, including our bustling base, the magnificent university city of Perugia, and the charming Tuscan town of Cortona. We also visit pretty Gubbio and clifftop Orvieto, both former Etruscan strongholds, as well as spectacular, mountain-backed Spoleto and the famous pilgrimage town of Assisi, thought to have been the territory of the Umbri tribe. Both ancient civilisations remain elusive to this day, although traces can be seen in the ruins that lay hidden beneath Umbrian streets.

The calling card of Umbrian towns is that they’ve been built in improbable places – climbing up hillsides or perched atop sheer walls of rock. This defensive tactic has undoubtedly contributed to their impressive preservation as portals to the past. Their deliberately inaccessible positioning, made accessible by impressive escalator systems and funiculars,

also meant that victorious invaders built upwards, siting medieval towns above crumbling Roman amphitheatres and secret Etruscan cities. Of course, as we’re at the heart of faithful Italy, we’ll also see magnificent churches, crowned by the awe-inspiring Basilica of St Francis of Assisi.

Between dipping into local town life, we’ll experience central Italy’s natural attractions, including the otherworldly caves of Frasassi and the tranquil Lake Trasimeno, as well as taste the fruits of the fertile landscape at a local winery and rustic restaurant.

If you’d like to discover what lies at the very heart of Italy – a region that’s every bit as beautiful and historically important as neighbouring Tuscany, but remains largely unexplored – this tour of Umbria is set to surprise and enchant.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN ITALY Fly to Rome and transfer to the four-star Brufani Hotel. This grand hotel has hosted royalty and

Explore medieval Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis

PRICE INCLUDES • Enjoy a guided tour of Perugia, capital of Italy’s beautiful Umbria region and formerly one of the 12 Etruscan cities • Take a guided tour of medieval Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis and home to the incredible basilica dedicated to his name • Cross into Tuscany to explore the timeworn, narrow streets of hilltop Cortona • Take the ferry across Lake Trasimeno to the time-capsule island of Maggiore • See Spoleto’s ancient Roman and Romanesque architecture on a guided tour • Sample the spoils of the verdant Umbrian countryside at a local producer of Sagrantino di Montefalco wine • Descend deep under Umbria’s undulating landscape to explore the enchanting Frasassi Caves

• Journey through the history of one of Umbria’s oldest towns, Gubbio • Take the funicular up a volcanic rock face to the hidden town of Orvieto, a former Etruscan stronghold boasting one of Italy’s finest cathedrals • Visit a 101-year-old chocolate factory and learn the story behind the iconic Perugina Baci chocolate • Taste traditional fare at a rural restaurant

Plus, of course...

• •

•

Return flights with hotel transfers Seven nights in four-star accommodation, inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast (a three-night hotel dining option is available) The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager

FROM €1,169PP DINING CHOICES If you wish to dine in at the hotel, you may pre-book dinner for 3 nights at €99pp.

clink of china as cups are set out for morning coffee and the friendly chatter of Italians passing the time.

This wide avenue leads up past a mix of shiny designer boutiques and tiny timeworn shops to the Piazza IV Novembre – the centrepiece of the city. This flagstone square boasts the gothic San Lorenzo cathedral, the imposing 13th-century Palazzo dei Priori and the intricately carved Maggiore fountain. Fanning out from the square is a jumble of narrow alleyways lined with crumbling buildings in shades of peach,

ochre, russet and cream, providing plenty of places to people-watch over a local craft beer, a chilled glass of Orvieto Classico or a creamy gelato.

From the Piazza Italia you can take an escalator down to the atmospheric streets of medieval Perugia, an underground world hidden within the 16thcentury Rocca Paolina fortress. You can also enter the foundations of the fortress through the Porta Marzia gate, one of the stone portals chiselled into the crumbling Etruscan wall that encloses Perugia.

Interestingly, this under-city maze is more than just a tourist attraction – you’ll see locals hurrying through it to the bus station!

This afternoon our attention turns to chocolate at the Perugina chocolate factory – surely every chocoholic’s dream. Founded over a century ago, Lake Trasimeno

celebrities since its opening in 1884, including our very own Queen Mother. Guests can enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace of the Collins Bar, and the atmospheric swimming pool, which lies under exposed medieval vaults and has a glass floor overlooking the 3,000-year-old Etruscan ruins below. The hotel sits on an elevated position on the edge of Perugia’s hilltop historic centre, on one end overlooking the lower town towards the surrounding green countryside, and on the other leading onto the smart Piazza Italia. A three-night dining option is available during your seven-night stay if preferred.

DAY 2 – PERUGIA & CHOCOLATE FACTORY After breakfast we embark on a tour of this bustling university city, which uses an escalator system to connect the lower town to the historical core above. A wander along the Corso Pietro Vannucci is a treat for the senses, as its traffic-free status allows the subtler sounds and smells of local life to come through – the

13

In the afternoon we return to tranquil Lake Trasimeno, known as the Sea of Umbria by locals of this landlocked region. From the lakeside town of Castiglione del Lago, we take the ferry across the languid waters to Isola Maggiore, enjoying the view of the Castello del Leone or ‘fortress of the lion’. As we approach, the 19th-century Guglielmi Castle can be seen nestled into the wooded hillside. Those who wish to can climb the shrubby hill path to the simple Church of St Michael the Archangel – a favourite meditation spot of St Francis. Wherever you wander, you’ll be surrounded by hardy olive trees, distinctive for their gnarled trunks and breathtaking views of the lake.

Explore Umbria’s lovely villages

this chocolatier quickly became one of Italy’s top confectionary exporters. If you’re not familiar with Perugina’s foil-wrapped hazelnut ‘Baci’ chocolates, each hiding a romantic love note, you will be after our tour.

DAY 3 – ASSISI This morning we head for Assisi, an elegant hill town dominated by the vast Basilica of St Francis complex, which includes a Franciscan monastery and two churches. Sitting on the green hillside with the town climbing ever higher behind it, this is a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts pilgrims from around the world. As we wander the flower-hung streets with our local guide, we learn how St Francis came to be so highly revered in Italy, from his early life as the spoilt son of a silk merchant, to his renouncement of riches and founding of the Franciscan Order of monks. Built as a shrine to St Francis in 1228 two years after his death, the exterior of the basilica and friary complex is befittingly austere. Inside, however, is a different matter, with both the upper and lower basilicas adorned with colourful frescos, including a series attributed to the famous Florentine painter, Giotto.

The simple-living St Francis rests in the crypt below the basilica, together with his friend, benefactor and follower, Jacoba of Settesoli, who is said to have fed him his favourite almond treats on his deathbed.

We have some free time to explore the old-world town centre with its shuttered stone houses, ‘holein-the-wall’ shops and tiny family-run cafes – the silky ‘strangozzi’ pasta with rich, earthy black truffles is a must-try! A varied collection of churches and cathedrals dots the piazzas, while two medieval castles, Rocca Maggiore and Rocca Minore, jostle for dominance on the skyline.

DAY 4 – CORTONA & LAKE TRASIMENO Today we travel north towards Tuscany, following the shoreline of Lake Trasimeno, a huge splash of azure surrounded by gently sloping green hills covered with olive groves, thick woodlands and the occasional lakeside town. Cortona clutters the hillside with a

14

tight muddle of terracotta rooftops, which hide a maze of narrow alleyways and wide piazzas – you may recognise it from the romantic memoir and subsequent film, ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’. The central Piazza della Repubblica is the perfect place to stop for a mid-morning ‘caffè’ served thick and brooding in a tiny white cup. This square is so impossibly untouched by time that you half expect an old horse and cart to come clip-clopping past the bell-topped Palazzo del Capitano! The spectacular view from the Piazza del Duomo is another must, leading the eye over the city walls and across the Tuscan countryside.

DAY 5 – SPOLETO & WINE TASTING This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Spoleto, which sits on a foothill of the Apennines mountain range. The sight of the medieval arched bridge leading to the formidable Rocca Albornoziana fortress will remind you of an epic historical movie, while the city that sits behind it bears the hallmarks of Roman and Lombard rule. The desolate ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheatre are a contrast to the resplendent Romanesque cathedral that dazzles in the palest stone on the Piazza del Duomo.

For lunch you may be tempted by the smell of the slow-roasted porchetta that’s stuffed into sandwiches and sold from streetside stalls. Then we set out into the rich tapestry of Umbrian countryside once again to visit a leading producer of Sagrantino di Montefalco wine, made from the black sagrantino grapes indigenous to the region. A tasting allows you to form your own opinion as to whether this dark, full-bodied ‘vino rosso’ deserves a place on your wine rack. We’ll also sample the olive oil that this region is revered for worldwide, to complete an afternoon full of the true tastes of Umbria.

DAY 6 – FRASASSI CAVES & GUBBIO We drive east this morning to the Marche region that lies between Umbria and the Adriatic. Here we delve deep underground to explore the Frasassi

Cathedral of Orvieto

Caves, considered to be among the most impressive in Europe. Our tour of these stunning karst caves, which can easily trick the eye with their glistening snowwhite walls and icicle-like stalactites and stalagmites, takes us into the Great Cave of the Wind – large enough to house the Milan cathedral. As we learn

more about their 1971 discovery by local speleologists and their formation over a million years ago, it’s impossible to remain unmoved by our magical and mesmerisingly beautiful surroundings.

This afternoon we return to Umbria to visit ancient Gubbio, which has roots going back to the Bronze

Age. For lunch why not try a traditional ‘crescia’, a flaky flatbread stuffed with cheese and meat, before exploring this pretty, pristinely kept town, which climbs the lowest slope of Mount Ingino. The ruins of a Roman amphitheatre sit in the lower town, with the impenetrable-looking Church of St Francis.

Gubbio’s medieval core then begins its ascent, the air fragranced by the flower boxes that dot the cobbled streets with splashes of colour, towards the Piazza Grande, a fantastic viewing platform overlooking the town and across to a hilly horizon). Climbing even higher, we can see the cathedral and Palazzo Ducale, a duo of landmarks at the very top of the town.

DAY 7 – ORVIETO & AGRITURISMO LUNCH This morning we end our journey of Etruscan discovery at another of this mysterious civilisation’s 12 key cities, Orvieto, whose ancient ruins lie in eerie underground caves. A glimpse of this sparse subterranean city can be had from the family-owned Well of the Cave, a secret passageway leading to nine caves underneath a traditional pottery shop! With the city built from the precipitous chunk of volcanic rock on which it sits, Orvieto looks almost at one with the red-hued rock – although the cathedral is a stand-out feature. After a ride up the tree-lined funicular tracks to the old town, we marvel at the intricate façade of this incredible Gothic building, featuring gilded frescoes that give it the appearance of being illuminated from within. After our discovery of Orvieto we stop at a rural restaurant, known locally as an agriturismo, to sample a menu of traditional fare grown in this fertile land at the heart of Italy.

Orvieto

DAY 8 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

15

POMPEII, CAPRI & T H E B AY O F N A P L E S 8 days from only €1,119pp

The natural and historic riches surrounding the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento peninsula are amazing – bustling Naples, chic Sorrento, the island of Capri, the Amalfi coastline and, of course, Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Italy is a truly wonderful destination for so many reasons. Perhaps more than any other nation, it has retained its roots and traditions into the modern era, while its blend of excellent food and wine, sublime scenery, enviable climate and a phenomenal cultural legacy provide all the ingredients for a memorable stay. Plus, of course, there are the Italians themselves, with their legendary love of life!

In the south of the country you’ll find one of the most beautiful corners of Europe. For centuries, the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento peninsula have been attracting visitors eager to experience their dazzling scenery, tranquillity and abundance of world-class historical sights. It’s a region of Italy that has had a long and turbulent past – invasions by the Greeks, Phoenicians and Saracens have all left their marks, but it was the Romans whose legacy remains most obvious today. Two millennia ago the Emperors Tiberius and Augustus fell under the spell of the Bay of Naples and, together with countless members of the ruling elite, made it their home.

16

Our base for this tour is the picturesque town of Sorrento. The resort came to prominence during the late 18th century when, attracted by its mild climate and outstanding natural beauty, Europe’s aristocracy chose to spend their winters here, staying in sumptuous properties and grand hotels built along the cliff tops. There’s colour everywhere you look in its compact network of tiny streets and quaint squares: tubs of red geraniums, dark blue clematis climbing up pastel-hued walls, and oleanders, bougainvilleas and roses in varying shades of pink decorating the open spaces. Lemon trees are common – you can’t help but notice their fragrance as you wander – and lofty palm trees offer shade in the summer months.

Mouthwatering aromas drift from the numerous restaurants and trattorias, some humble and homely, others grand and ostentatious, with pavement cafés serving cappuccinos on every street corner.

Today Sorrento is a typically vibrant Italian town – smartly attired traffic wardens blowing whistles and waving their arm direct the traffic as Vespas weave

in and out; smartly dressed young men and women make their way to work; mothers with children in tow pass by with bulging shopping bags; and splendidly turned out senior citizens discuss life on public benches and outside cafés… all with the sun shining down, this is really a slice of la dolce vita.

You’ll also explore legendary Amalfi coast. Every guidebook proclaims it to be Europe’s most attractive stretch of coastline – limestone mountains, copses of pine and the most vivid azure Mediterranean waters you’ll ever see… truly magnificent scenery. Next it’s Capri, a picture-perfect island off the Sorrento peninsula that possesses a deserved reputation as a veritable Garden of Eden and whose romantic allure has attracted royalty and celebrities for hundreds of years.

The skyline of the Bay of Naples is dominated by magnificent Mount Vesuvius, which soars to over 4,200 feet. This still-active volcano has erupted spectacularly several times in its history, most famously in 79AD when Pompeii and Herculaneum

Explore the stunning Amalfi coast

PRICE INCLUDES • Explore the amazingly preserved Roman town of Herculaneum with an expert local guide • Take a boat trip to the stunning island of Capri, with the opportunity to visit the Blue Grotto • Discover the mysteries of Pompeii on a guided tour and visit the Naples Archaeological Museum • Spend a full day touring the breathtaking Amalfi coast, with a visit to charming hilltop Ravello • Stay in elegant Sorrento and enjoy a walking tour of this stylish resort

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in a choice of three- to four-star superior accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner. Stays at the Hotel Mediterraneo include daily breakfast only

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,119PP their opulent villas. During the 18th century it was part of the ‘Grand Tour’ for Europe’s aristocracy, and classic hotels sprung up along the cliff-top streets.

Today, spared the excesses of modern development, Sorrento is a quintessential southern Italian town.

You’ll be enchanted by its maze of narrow alleyways and winding streets, complemented by countless

elegant shops selling luxury leather goods and shoes, and cosy restaurants nestling in tall buildings with faded facades in typically Mediterranean shades of ochre, yellow and magenta.

The region has a long history of lemon cultivation, with highly prized Sorrento lemons given their own protected IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) status in the same way as Parma ham or balsamic vinegar from Modena. Sixty percent of lemon production goes into making limoncello liqueur, but in Sorrento it seems that anything can be made from the local citrus fruit, including soaps, cosmetics and, of course, ice-cream.

DAY 3 – NAPLES & POMPEII Today we drive north around the bay to the cosmopolitan city of Naples. We then have a guided tour of the Archaeological Museum, one of the finest of its kind in the world. When the excavations started in nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum, the most significant finds were brought here and unveiled to an eager public. An extensive display of remarkably preserved mosaics provides a fascinating insight into the way of life – and even the sense of humour – of ordinary Romans. Other areas of the museum include murals, fine pottery and preserved food, while a central presentation features some of the largest classical sculptures ever uncovered. It’s an absorbing visit, and one that perfectly complements your visit to Pompeii.

Most people know the story of Pompeii and its fate, but today this site is so much more than a collection of ruins. Our guided tour of the Roman town highlights its astonishing state of preservation – even if you aren’t especially interested in history, you can’t fail to be impressed by its scale – streets, temples, baths and even the ampitheatre remain largely intact. Much of our knowledge about the Roman way of life, their habits, social structure, class system and domestic arrangements has come from Pompeii. Many buildings still have murals and mosaics, while others inscribed with graffiti describing political events, romantic entanglements and even gossip of the time. You can even see traffic-calming measures and a one-way system! Although endlessly fascinating, Pompeii is also slightly eerie, particularly when you see the pained facial expressions of Vesuvius’s victims preserved for eternity.

Temple of Apollo

– together with many of their inhabitants – were entombed by a sea of molten rock and ash. Visits to these Roman towns highlight the scale of this catastrophic event and you’ll be amazed by their remarkable state of preservation.

Ultimately, there are few places in the world that combine so much of interest in an area of such extraordinary scenery as the Bay of Naples, making it an especially stimulating tour destination.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN SORRENTO Arrive at the airport for your flight to Naples. On arrival we transfer by coach to Sorrento, where you have a choice of carefully selected hotels to stay for seven nights.

DAY 2 – WALKING TOUR OF SORRENTO Our first full day in this centuries-old resort is at a suitably relaxed pace, beginning with a short walking tour. The Romans appreciated Sorrento’s many qualities and the area is dotted with the remains of

17

DAY 4 – FREE DAY Today is a free day to spend at leisure in Sorrento, perhaps to browse the numerous boutiques and enjoy a leisurely lunch in your choice of restaurant.

Capri

DAY 5 – CAPRI The island of Capri is renowned the world over, and today we take a short boat ride to discover its charms. It has long been the most desirable part of the Bay of Naples, attracting Roman emperors – Tiberius made it his home and ruled the empire from here – writers such as DH Lawrence and George Bernard Shaw, Hollywood stars and numerous other luminaries who have sought inspiration here. It’s easy to see why Capri is so adored; as we approach you’ll see small fishing boats bobbing on the water, with whitewashed shops and restaurants lining the busy quayside against a backdrop of towering cliffs.

The main town is perched on a hill looking down on the quaint harbour below and you’ll have some time to explore the island. One option is to visit the famous Blue Grotto – the large sea cave that takes its name from the incandescent blue light that bathes the cavern.

A short walk from the harbour and the bustling main square you’ll find yourself in near-deserted lanes that pass terraced vineyards, lemon groves and fragrant pines, with spectacular views of the rugged coastline and cobalt-blue sea below… and then you’ll understand just why the island is regarded as a true Mediterranean paradise.

DAY 6 – HERCULANEUM This morning we visit Herculaneum – known locally as Ercolano – located in the shadow of mighty Mount Vesuvius. Like Pompeii, it was buried under scalding mud and ash when the volcano erupted in AD79, smothering everything from complete streets and houses to small metal objects and textiles, and sealing them in an airtight tomb. It wasn’t until the first major excavation commenced in the 18th century that the hidden secrets of this ancient settlement were revealed.

Our local guide will bring the history of Herculaneum to life. As you walk around this wonderfully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site you’ll appreciate just how much volcanic waste had to be excavated to uncover what we can see today. It may be less well known than Pompeii, but the state of preservation of the buildings at Herculaneum is generally far superior, so it’s certainly worth the visit.

DAY 7 – AMALFI COAST Today you’ll have a chance to experience the sublimely beautiful Amalfi coast at first hand as we wind around spectacular pine-clad cliffs that tumble down into the turquoise Mediterranean. Our coastal drive takes us above the exclusive resort of Positano … haunt of celebrities. We arrive in Amalfi, a picturesque village in a gorgeous setting, possessing charm in abundance and perhaps the highlight of the coast.

Just inland is the stunning village of Ravello, with its awe-inspiring location perched like an eagle’s nest on a shelf above Amalfi affording amazing views. It has an ambience all of its own, with an enchanting main square, a 13th-century cathedral and the Villa Rufolo, which was once the centre of a city-state and is now an interesting collection of medieval buildings, statues and terraced gardens (it was was also the inspiration for elements of Wagner’s opera Parsifal).

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

18

WE STAY IN SORRENTO AND HAVE A CHOICE OF HOTELS The Villa Maria is a comfortable three-star hotel.

The bedrooms are simply furnished and include satellite TV, minibar, hairdryer and air conditioning, while the hotel itself is centrally located next to the Old Town and a short walk from Piazza Tasso, the main square. Just around the corner is Corso Italia, Sorrento’s principal thoroughfare, lined with stylish shops and boutiques. Villa Maria has an extensive bar and lounge – the perfect place to unwind after a day’s sightseeing. The swimming pool and adjacent sun terrace are ideal places to soak up the sun, while a second terrace offers splendid views of Sorrento, the Mediterranean, Mount Vesuvius and, on a clear day, Naples.

A sympathetic conversion of a 16th-century abbey, the three-star La Badia has retained much of the building’s original stonework to give this small hotel a lovely ambience. All rooms are tastefully furnished and have a flat-screen TV, safe, hairdryer

and air-conditioning. There is also Wi-Fi in the public areas. The hotel has been in the same family for many years and guests are made to feel extremely welcome. The reception and entrance hall boast many antiques to add to the atmosphere. Its location is also impressive, situated just behind Sorrento with the sea and Naples stretching out before you. It’s set among four acres of attractive gardens that include fragrant lemon and orange groves. By road La Badia is approximately two miles from Sorrento, and guests can use a free pre-bookable taxi service or the local bus, which stops just outside. There’s also a more direct 400 metre pathway into town, which is steep and narrow, but illuminated by night. The hotel has an outdoor pool and a restaurant serving good local cuisine; weather permitting, you can dine on the terrace overlooking the bay. There’s also a pleasant bar.

The four-star Vue d’Or, or ‘view of gold’, is an apt name for this delightful hotel built in a style typical of the region. The lounge, bar and public rooms feature traditional tiled floors and wroughtiron staircases, with the original exposed stonework adding to the charm that permeates the property.

There’s a restaurant and the air-conditioned rooms are well-furnished – decorated in cool pastels, they include satellite TV, safe and hairdryer. The outdoor pool and terrace are ideal spots for a refreshing drink at the end of the day. Set in its own grounds and adorned with a wealth of terracotta-potted flowered shrubs, what really elevates the hotel is its hillside location behind Sorrento; surrounded by undulating countryside, it provides amazing views over the Bay

Lemon groves, Amalfi

of Naples to Mount Vesuvius. Should you wish to visit Sorrento – less than four miles away – you can use the Vue d’Or’s shuttle service or board a local bus from just outside the hotel.

The four-star superior Grand Hotel Aminta is located on a hilltop less than two miles from the town centre, and its location affords picture-postcard views of Sorrento, Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples – it’s an unbeatable spot to watch a classic Neapolitan sunset. The pastel decor has been carefully chosen to sympathetically reflect the hotel’s surroundings.

Spacious public areas create an aura of relaxation, while the adjacent lounge, terrace and swimming pool are perfect for whiling away spare time. The bedrooms are comfortable and tastefully furnished – all offer fridge, hairdryer, satellite TV, safe, Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The hotel provides a courtesy shuttle bus service to Sorrento town throughout the day and evening.

Nestled in a leafy setting away from Sorrento’s main thoroughfare yet just minutes from vibrant Piazza Tasso, the four-star Michelangelo is well located in the heart of town. Originally structured around a 7th-century stone tower, the property has a fascinating history, with the modern rooms simply furnished using dark woods, local terracotta tiles and warm fabrics; all feature air conditioning, hairdryer, safe and satellite TV. The hotel also has a small swimming pool and a sun terrace.

Directly on the cliff top with uninterrupted views across the Bay of Naples to Vesuvius, the centrally positioned four-star Grand Europa Palace enjoys one of Sorrento’s most breathtaking vantage points.

During the 19th century, some of the town’s oldest, most sumptuous private villas were sympathetically converted into this fine hotel, which also features pleasant Mediterranean gardens. Inside, the design of the large public areas retains the style associated with the ‘Grand Tour’ – lavish Venetian glass chandeliers grace the coved ceilings, paintings adorn the walls, seating is on tasteful high-backed chairs and sofas and tall windows are dressed with light-coloured curtains, while bronze and marble sculptures line the hotel’s wide corridors.

The Grand Europa Palace consists of two restored villas, one of which hosts an opulent reception area and restaurant. Standard rooms are located in both the main building (at a supplement) and the Villino Maria across a pathway opposite. Sea-facing rooms are in the main building only. All rooms are airconditioned with minibar and satellite TV. Accessed by a lift, the hotel’s private pool is decorated with Roman-style columns and located just a few steps from the sea. With the poolside bar at hand to serve you a revitalising cocktail, it’s an idyllic spot to relax and take in the sensational Mediterranean vistas.

Only steps away from Piazza Tasso and Corso Italia, three-star Grand Hotel Cesare Augusto couldn’t be in a better position. Its spacious bedrooms are simply decorated with the ceramic tiles so typical of Sorrento, with generous use of polished hardwoods. All bedrooms offer minibar, air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, satellite TV. The hotel restaurant serves a range of traditional local and Mediterranean cuisine while the rooftop has a small swimming pool and bar, with excellent views of the town. The spacious communal areas provide a relaxing environment, although the Cesare Augusto’s excellent location means you will probably find yourself spending most of your time visiting the picturesque alleys and shopping areas on your doorstep. The hotel is partially surrounded by its own landscaped gardens, with large pine trees providing welcome shade.

A former private villa, the four-star Hotel Mediterraneo was built in 1912 with a frontage overlooking the Bay of Naples. Its transformation into a luxurious traditional hotel has resulted in a handsome establishment that oozes early-20thcentury ambience. The tall white building has a bright, airy feel. Marble flooring in the sleek lobby leads through to a stylish bar, and there’s an outside terrace. All the welcoming bedrooms have air conditioning, safe, hairdryer, satellite TV and minibar.

This hotel is offered on a daily breakfast only basis, so you’ll have more of an opportunity to sample the fantastic local cuisine – a great selection of traditional Italian eateries, trattorias and fine dining restaurants are within easy reach.

On the top floor of the Mediterraneo is the Vesuvio restaurant, which presents spectacular views out to Mount Vesuvius. Its à la carte menu offers dishes made from fresh local produce; book in advance as it’s very popular.

To the rear, surrounding the pool, there are extensive mature gardens with palm trees and fragrant flora, plus another bar, and there’s also a privately owned beach area opposite the hotel, accessible by the hotel’s private lift.

Please note: The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.

Where hotels feature an outdoor swimming pool, this will be open during the summer months (weather permitting).

19

L AKE GARDA , VENICE & VERONA 8 days from only €889pp

Spectacular mountain scenery and pastel-coloured villages reflecting in the tranquil waters of Lake Garda are complemented by the architectural jewels of Venice and romantic ambience of Verona on this enchanting tour in the north of Italy.

Italy is renowned for cities that have been at the centre of great wealth, political power and artistic revolution for centuries, and they are magnificently represented on this tour by Venice and Verona. But the country also has many natural wonders and we make our base at one of its finest examples – Lake Garda. On our approach, images of the abundant flowers and trees that cover the lake’s banks are reflected in the water’s ever-changing kaleidoscope of colour. The lake, Italy’s largest and most striking, with gentle waves lapping onto the shingle shoreline, forms the centrepiece of a beautifully harmonious mosaic, with the stunning snow-capped Alps in the background and a scattering of beguiling villages completing the image. Further north on this tour we witness the Dolomite Mountains, some of most spectacular alpine scenery anywhere.

It’s only in the past 150 years that Italy has come to exist as a nation state formed from a collection of previously largely self-governing cities, often separated by impenetrable marshes or mountain ranges. They then evolved totally independently and on this tour we shall visit two of them – the very different but very classic cities of Verona and Venice.

Rome aside, Verona claims to have more ancient remains than any city in Italy. Its most striking monument is its arena – the third largest to have survived since antiquity – where a range of entertainments was presented, including gruesome gladiatorial combat. The city gained much of its renown as the setting for Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s tale of doomed love. Enclosed by massive and extremely well-preserved ramparts,

20

Verona casts a seductive spell, with lovingly restored pink-hued buildings lining the streets.

And then there’s Venice. Thoughts of the city conjure up all sorts of marvellous images, from its gondolas to its great buildings. But reality can be even more breathtaking than imagination. Saint Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and the Grand Canal are incomparable. You can’t walk for more than a few minutes without seeing something that demands your attention and admiration.

DAY 1 – ARRIVE IN LAKE GARDA Arrive at your selected airport for your flight. We transfer by coach to one of two delightful lakeside resorts – either Malcesine or Riva del Garda, both of which are surrounded by lofty peaks and located at the more scenic northern end of Lake Garda.

DAY 2 – TOUR OF LAKE GARDA Lake Garda rose to prominence in the latter years of the 19th century when visitors came for the clean mountain air and agreeable climate, and its outstanding natural beauty has ensured its lasting high regard. On today’s tour of the lake we pass through some lovely, typically Italian villages, complete with tiny harbours clinging to the shoreline with the mountains behind.

We call at Salò, where former national leader Mussolini was set up by the Germans in a short-lived republic during the Second World War. There are 15th-century buildings and a cathedral full of art to see before we continue our journey to picturesque Sirmione. Situated at the lake’s southern tip, Sirmione

announces itself in captivating fashion with a bridge and moat leading to a fortress and the Old Town.

Other highlights of Lake Garda include lush groves of olive and citrus trees and, of course, vines used for making the famous Bardolino wines. In the middle reaches of the lake, rich vegetation covers the lake shore, while the more rugged north is covered with pine trees, whose unmistakable scent hangs heavy in the air.

DAY 3 – THE DOLOMITES After breakfast, we head north to ascend into the Dolomites. Geological activity some 230 million years ago imbued this remarkable mountain range with gorgeous pink and lime-green hues, among other colours that change with the seasons. The foothills are characterised by green pastures studded with the occasional shepherd’s house, sheep and goats scattered here and there and pine forests stretching into the distance. This landscape would have you believe you were in another country – the houses in the tiny hamlets resemble Swiss- or Austrian-style chalets, with gently sloping roofs and enormous window boxes that burst with flowers of all colours.

It’s an area where cultures cross over – some of the locals speak Ladino, a dialect fusing Italian and German.

We have plenty of stops to savour the scenery, as well as the opportunity to ascend on a cable car (subject to seasonal operation) to enjoy panoramic views of the whole area. The splendour of this rugged landscape and its clean, crisp and invigorating mountain air really take your breath away. Its

PRICE INCLUDES

• Enjoy a full day exploring beautiful Lake Garda, both on land and by boat •

Explore Venice, the medieval world’s richest city, on a tour with a local guide – choose between the ‘classic’ and ‘undiscovered’ tours

•

Walk into history among the Roman ruins of Verona, guided by a local expert – choose between the ‘classic’ and ‘undiscovered’ tours

• Marvel at the breathtaking alpine scenery of Dolomites on a full-day tour • Enjoy two free days to explore further at your leisure or relax and take in the incredible scenery

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in a choice of three-star to four-star superior accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €889PP Wander the lakeside streets of Riva del Garda

remoteness means it’s home to a huge variety of rare wildlife. If you’re lucky, you could see chamois, ibex, golden eagles and deer.

DAY 4 – FREE DAY Today is a free day to explore at your leisure. Located at the top of the lake, Riva del Garda is surrounded by pine-swathed peaks. The delightful Old Town is full of twisting streets with lots of shops, perfect for wandering through.

Those staying in Malcesine have equally enticing ways to spend the day. There are fabulous views from the 12th-century Castello Scaligero, which houses a natural-history museum, while the Palazzo dei Capitani was a base for Malcesine’s Venetian rulers in centuries past.

The Basilica di San Marco, built to house the relics of Saint Mark himself, is among Europe’s most exotic cathedrals and one of the world’s most splendid buildings. Its interior decoration is the definition of opulence. The statistics are staggering but serve to back up what your eyes tell you – there are over 86,000 square feet of detailed mosaics, mostly from the 13th century. Another highlight is the magnificent

Pala d’Oro, a gem-studded golden altarpiece containing over 250 enamelled panels.

Adjacent is the Doge’s Palace, home of the most powerful man in Venice, and the seat of government councils and courts. These surroundings were designed as fittingly lavish accommodations for the government of a great power – the Golden Staircase will take your breath away. The walls and ceilings are exquisitely decorated with paintings, frescoes and gold leaf; one room alone hosts four works by Tintoretto.

If you’ve been to Venice before and have seen the iconic sights, perhaps you’d like to join our ‘undiscovered’ tour of lesser-known Venice away from the main tourist parts, led by an expert guide whose local knowledge will help you delve deeper in the life and culture of this extraordinary city.

DAY 5 – VENICE: CLASSIC OR UNDISCOVERED After an early breakfast we drive to Venice to witness a city as culturally rich as any on earth. On our morning walking tour you’ll see Saint Mark’s Square and its Basilica, the Campanile and the Doge’s Palace, together with countless other places of interest.

Venice came to prominence in the 10th century. It grew in wealth and power on gaining its independence from Byzantium, reaching its zenith of influence during the 15th century. At the time the greatest power in the Mediterranean, with an empire encompassing Crete, parts of Turkey and a huge portion of northern Italy, Venice soon transformed itself into a city worthy of this lofty status. Situated ideally between east and west, it expanded rapidly with the huge increase in trade.

21

you to witness Garda’s sights with a fresh eye. For the more energetic a walk along the lakeside offers rewarding views, while for those who prefer to sit and watch the world go by there are many welcoming cafés.

The Dolomites

The afternoon is free to explore as you please. Saint Mark’s Square has been the focal point of the city since its foundation, and enjoying a drink in one of the pavement cafés and absorbing the atmosphere remain some of life’s great pleasures. Seeing these iconic buildings and spaces one by one is a delight, but so is viewing them all at once, so why not take a trip up the Campanile, the imposing bell tower? Originally built as a lighthouse, it was where Galileo demonstrated his telescope to a sceptical audience.

For art-lovers there’s the unmissable Gallerie dell’Accademia, housing one of the finest collections in the world, including many Renaissance works.

Or there’s the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, with

works by Miró, Picasso, Chagall, Pollock and Léger among others.

And a visit to Venice wouldn’t be complete without a trip on a gondola. These beautifully made boats are crafted from 300 individual pieces of wood. A short ride on one of them is a lovely and peaceful way to explore the backwaters of the city.

DAY 6 – FREE DAY Today you’re free to explore your surroundings as you wish. So what’s it to be? A stroll around the port is a charming way to spend your time, perhaps indulging in a little shopping. There are various options for taking a boat cruise on the lake, which will allow

DAY 7 – VERONA: CLASSIC OR UNDISCOVERED Our guided walking tour of Verona is the best way to appreciate one of Italy’s most beautiful and pleasant cities. Shakespeare, of course, set Romeo and Juliet here and you can see the balcony at Casa di Giulietta, where legend has it that the immortal words ‘O Romeo, Romeo’ were spoken by Juliet’s real-life counterpart.

Inside Verona’s centuries-old walls, pink-hued buildings, many with stunning frescos, have remained unchanged for centuries. Classic pavement cafés are seemingly everywhere, some with violinists serenading their audiences as they enjoy a refreshing drink, basking in the sunshine. Narrow streets feature tasteful shops, while Verona’s marketplace dates from Roman times and includes many fascinating reminders of the city’s past.

The first-century Roman arena is an aweinspiring sight, still used for opera performances (see Personalise Your Holiday), but there are also many medieval and Renaissance squares and courtyards to explore, as well as a 12th-century cathedral housing a work by Titian. The fine late Renaissance Giusti Garden, with clipped box hedges and dazzling displays, will add splashes of colour to your lasting memories. Another site of interest is the Basilica of San Zeno, whose ancient Roman original was destroyed in 1117 but later rose to become arguably the finest Romanesque church in northern Italy.

For those who have been to Verona before, our ‘undiscovered’ tour is the best way of seeing a different side of this city, including many hidden cultural and architectural gems that most visitors never see.

This afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. Why not indulge in some shopping – Italy is renowned for its sense of style, and Verona has many excellent shops, ranging from exclusive boutiques to family-owned businesses selling local goods.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for our flight home.

Verona

22

WE HAVE A CHOICE OF HOTELS IN MALCESINE OR RIVA DEL GARDA On this tour, we stay for seven nights with breakfast and dinner. You have a selection of hotel options in either Malcesine or Riva del Garda.

THREE-STAR HOTEL CRISTALLO (MALCESINE) Set in a beautiful location overlooking the lake, this informal, family-run hotel has a homely feel and has been lovingly furnished in a style that reflects the owners’ personal tastes. The rooms are tastefully decorated and have en-suite facilities, satellite TV, a safe and air-conditioning. The colourful dining room offers a variety of simple Italian and Austrianinfluenced dishes, typical of this area of Italy. The hotel also has a bar, lounge and outdoor terrace. Enjoy spectacular views of the lake and mountains from the rooftop terrace, or relax by the outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by palm trees and luscious greenery.

Mere steps away is a lakeside path that leads right into the heart of Malcesine’s picturesque Old Town.

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Attend the Verona Opera Festival Don’t miss the world’s oldest open-air opera festival, set in an atmospheric Roman amphitheatre. When the lights dim, the magic begins and the most beautiful voices fill the air. It’s sure to make your holiday extra special. Call to pre-book this optional experience.

From €68pp.

2019 Tour Departure Date 19 August

2019 Opera Date & Performance 22 August - La Traviata

FOUR-STAR SUPERIOR HOTEL SAVOY PALACE (RIVA DEL GARDA) A hotel exuding elegance and refinement, superbly managed by its third-generation family owners. Set approximately 150 yards from the lakeside, it offers striking alpine vistas as you stroll along a pathway to the harbour and Old Town. The lounge and bar create a convivial ambience while the restaurant, which enjoys an excellent reputation, serves both regional and international dishes and prides itself on its level of service. There’s a small indoor swimming pool and in the grounds you’ll find an extensive heated pool and hydro-massage tub surrounded by an attractive sun terrace with flowers and hanging baskets adding colour. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms, which have balcony views, are extremely well-appointed and stylishly furnished, with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, safe, minibar and hairdryer.

FOUR-STAR SUPERIOR HOTEL KRISTAL PALACE (RIVA DEL GARDA) This is one of the lake’s finest boutique hotels, justifiably proud of its many accreditations. The Kristal Palace is set in small, immaculately maintained grounds and you’ll instantly recognise that everything about this property exudes luxury, comfort and good taste in a modern style. The lobby makes extensive use of warm, pastel-coloured marble, leather settees and tinted glass, while fine art adorns the walls. The rooms themselves feature hardwoods, marble, superb fabrics, exquisite bed linen and leather headboards.

The bathrooms have contemporary fittings, invigorating showers and luxury cosmetics.

Food is a real passion here. From the restaurant there are views into the kitchen, where talented chefs will truly exceed your expectations. Imaginative fine dining and fresh seasonal produce are the themes, with classic Italian cuisine presented with a modern twist to really excite your palate. Your dining experience is enhanced by exquisite glass and tableware, fresh flowers and bread baked on site. An unobtrusive pianist completes the atmosphere. On the roof is a real gem – the heated swimming pool surrounded by a terrace with sun-loungers, affording an amazing panorama of the lake and its backdrop of majestic mountains. Weather permitting you can enjoy breakfast on the roof terrace, while the bar is a wonderful place to enjoy the views and unwind after a day’s sightseeing.

FOUR-STAR HOTEL EUROPA (RIVA DEL GARDA) A wonderful hotel with an outstanding location – in the centre of Riva del Garda and on the lakefront,

with unrivalled sightlines of the historic port. As well as a modern lobby and comfortable lounge, there’s a superb terrace overlooking the harbour and colourful, vibrant main piazza. You can take breakfast here or enjoy a relaxing drink while making the most of probably the best vantage point in the whole of Riva. In the evenings, the hotel’s restaurant serves local specialities and typical Italian dishes. The air-conditioned, recently renovated rooms are wellappointed with satellite TV, Wi-Fi, hairdryer and safe. There’s a small rooftop swimming pool and sun terrace.

FOUR-STAR HOTEL PORTICI (RIVA DEL GARDA) Located just close to Riva’s main square in the heart of the Old Town, this historic hotel is also very near to the lake. It was once a manor house and it retains a wealth of period features, from stonework to vaulted ceilings, creating a wonderful ambience.

The air-conditioned rooms have Wi-Fi, satellite TV, safe, minibar and hairdryer, and are thoroughly contemporary in their design, while a welcoming bar complements the atmospheric restaurant serving traditional local cuisine. Surrounded by Riva’s famously twisting streets lined with tasteful boutiques, the Portici wears its tradition lightly, while being convenient and comfortable.

THREE-STAR HOTEL BRIONE (RIVA DEL GARDA) A centrally located hotel that’s very well managed by its family owners. All the comforts of a modern establishment are complemented by tastefully decorated rooms with satellite TV, Wi-Fi, safe,

hairdryer and air conditioning, a spacious restaurant and pleasant bar, lounge and terrace. Best of all are the outdoor pool and the quiet landscaped grounds to the rear of the hotel, the ideal spot in which to switch off for a while. Across the road is a lakeside path on which you can enjoy a walk through tranquil shaded gardens.

FOUR-STAR HOTEL ANTICO BORGO (RIVA DEL GARDA) Enviably located in Riva del Garda’s atmospheric historic centre on a pedestrianised cobbled street lined with tasteful boutiques and tiny restaurants, this hotel is still less than five minutes’ walk from the lake. A conversion from two townhouses, recently renovated to a high standard, it emanates charm. A spacious, welcoming reception and bar area provides comfortable seating. The air-conditioned rooms, which have Wi-Fi, satellite TV, safe and minibar, are modern, simply yet imaginatively decorated in that seemingly effortless Italian fashion. The rooftop terrace offers spectacular picture-postcard views over the lake to the mountains beyond. A short walk is necessary from the coach collection point, but your luggage will be transferred for you.

Please note: The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.

Where hotels feature an outdoor swimming pool, this will be open during the summer months (weather permitting).

23

L AK E CO M O, ST MORITZ & THE BERNINA EXPRESS 8 days from only €1,229pp

Towering Alpine peaks are the backdrop to this tour of northern Italy and Switzerland, including Lake Como and its stunning village of Bellagio, Lakes Maggiore and Lugano, the Bernina Express to St Moritz and the beautiful city of Bergamo.

There’s no one culture or region that defines Italy.

The northernmost parts border Austria and Switzerland, its lakes reflecting the icy magnificence of the Alps; in the south, the western tip of Sicily is only 150 miles or so away from the heat of North Africa. Such wonderfully contrasting areas of the same country, ranging from lofty mountains that appear to puncture the sky to whitewashed villages with Arabic-influenced names, make Italy impossible to pigeonhole.

This marvellously varied tour focuses on the north. We explore Lake Como, which Wordsworth – in a poem named in honour of the lake – called ‘a treasure whom the earth keeps to herself’, plus some stunning icons of northern Italy and Switzerland. For centuries Lake Como has been attracting visitors in search of relaxation and inspiration – both Verdi and Rossini found their muse while in lakeside villas here.

Its atmosphere can be one of an eerie near-silence, broken only by the gently rhythmic lapping of waves on the shore. The scenery takes the breath away – images of hills and snow-capped peaks are captured in the deep blue waters while tall, pastel-coloured buildings and opulent villas line the shore itself.

Above, birds of prey soar on thermals. The lower

24

slopes are covered in lush vegetation, adding an invigoratingly aromatic backdrop to a harmonious scene.

Our visit to Lake Maggiore, which straddles Italy and Switzerland, provides amazing sights. Almost Mediterranean in character courtesy of the climate, it is lined by verbena, palm and orange trees and a string of picturesque 19th-century towns. To the east is one of the most fashionable destinations in Switzerland – St Moritz. The iconic Bernina Express train transports us on a spectacularly scenic journey through the unforgettable Poschiavo Valley to this chic mountain resort.

The hilltop town of Bergamo has one of the most charming centres anywhere in Lombardy.

Surrounded by huge ramparts, it features Renaissance buildings and centuries-old squares lined by traditional cafés and restaurants. Art-lovers will find works by Canaletto and others to pore over in the Accademia Carrara.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL AT LAKE COMO Arrive at the airport for your flight to Milan Bergamo. On arrival, we transfer by coach to one of our specially selected four-star hotels.

Enjoy cruising on beautiful Lake Como

PRICE INCLUDES • Take a lake cruise to beautiful Bellagio on Lake Como, or with a private visit to the delightful Villa del Balbianello and its inspirational gardens •

Enjoy a full-day visit to the chic resort of St Moritz, including a journey on the Bernina Express, one of the most spectacular railways in the Alps

• Discover Bergamo, northern Italy’s most enchanting medieval town, on a guided tour • Follow in the footsteps of the ‘Grand Tour’ with a visit to Lake Maggiore and the town of Stresa • Visit Lugano, an elegant Swiss lakeside town with Italian influences

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner.

Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio include daily breakfast only (dining option available at a supplement)

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,229PP DAY 2 – LAKE COMO & BELLAGIO Lake Como has been beloved of those with an appreciation of nature since Roman chronicler Pliny the Younger, who owned two villas on the lake, wrote of its timeless grace. Since then, artists from many

disciplines have been inspired to produce great works.

Shelley said of it: ‘This lake exceeds anything I ever beheld in beauty.’ This morning you will witness the same sights that inspired the English poet as we take a private boat to the 18th-century Villa del Balbianello, one of the finest examples on the lake. Here we have a guided tour of the villa, which was originally built for a cardinal and features a renowned collection of primitive and decorative art as well as an Expedition Museum. The gardens are simply stunning, a series of manicured terraces full of fragrant roses and colourful borders dominated by a classic three-arch loggia.

The thought and planning that went into maximising the attributes of the rugged topography pay off to sublime effect.

The boat also takes us to the elegant village of Bellagio, once the playground of European monarchs.

With its idyllic location on a promontory, it is often described as the ‘Pearl of the Lake’. That billing is no overstatement. Its warm, pastel-coloured buildings adorn the lakefront while narrow cobbled streets and lanes ascend to the centre. Ablaze with colourful flowers, Bellagio is the perfect location for a long, lazy lunch in one of the picturesque lakeside restaurants, followed by a stroll among the many formal gardens adorned by fine sculptures. Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace before returning to the hotel.

DAY 3 – THE BERNINA EXPRESS Spectacular scenery and extraordinary Swiss engineering blend during an unforgettable day. First we ascend along the Valtellina, a classic alpine valley with soaring peaks rising steeply on both sides. On reaching Tirano we board the famous Bernina Express.

One of the slowest ‘express’ train in the world, this remarkable Swiss railway service twists upwards in an amazing sequence of spirals, loops and tunnels to the summit at Ospizio Bernina, the highest through station in Europe at an elevation of well over 7,000 feet. At this point you’re surrounded by stunning vistas over snow-clad peaks and glacial lakes.

We descend through pretty pastures and dense pine forests to the glamorous resort of St Moritz, once known for its therapeutic spas but now famous for the challenging Cresta Run toboggan track as well as for its well-heeled visitors. There’s time for a spot of window-shopping here, or perhaps afternoon tea and cake. Listen carefully and you may notice a rather

25

Bergamo

unusual language: in this tiny corner of Switzerland some of the locals speak Romansh, an ancient and little-known tongue derived from Latin. More eyecatching scenery awaits as we make our return trip to Lake Como for dinner.

DAY 4 – LAKE MAGGIORE & STRESA The lakeside town of Stresa owes its origins to the era of the ‘Grand Tour’ when Europe’s 19thcentury aristocracy, having crossed the border from Switzerland, experienced their first taste of Italy. You follow in their footsteps today, as well as witnessing magnificent Lake Maggiore. Mediterranean in character, the lake is lined with oleanders and palms, backed by exquisite hotels that create an ambience of refined gentility. Take a stroll along its impressive palm-lined promenade and enjoy the fine views across the shimmering lake to the Borromean Islands.

You can also take the short boat trip to Isola Bella, an island transformed by a 17th-century count from a barren rock into a delightful terraced garden. This inspiring display, called ‘fanciful and fantastic’ by Charles Dickens, has long been visited by the famous, among them Napoleon and Josephine as well as Prince Charles and Princess Diana. For the literary enthusiasts, back in Stresa you can relax at the bar of the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees, featured in Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms and frequented by the likes of George Bernard Shaw and Charlie Chaplin.

To see all these sights at once, take the cable car to the summit of Monte Mottarone for panoramic views of the soaring, snow-capped Alps. Later we return to our hotel for dinner.

DAY 5 – FREE DAY You are free to explore as you wish. A stroll followed by coffee and cake in one of the pleasant cafés is popular. Alternatively you may decide to take the boat to the lakeside town of Como or visit the gardens of Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo. This outstanding botanical paradise dates back to the 17th century, with

26

fountains and marble statuary adding majesty to the beauty of the azaleas and camellias. The villa itself is a museum featuring masterpieces by sculptor Antonio Canova.

DAY 6 – LUGANO We take a morning journey to Lugano, where traditional Swiss values and more laid-back Latin influences overlap to make for a fascinating complement of cultures. The capital of the Italianspeaking canton of Ticino was seized by the Swiss in the early 16th century and has steadfastly refused Bergamo

any opportunity to revert to Italy ever since, but that doesn’t mean that traces of Switzerland’s southern neighbour are absent. As you’d expect of the Swiss the trains run on time, but there’s a distinctive Mediterranean feel, unlike anything you’ll experience elsewhere in Switzerland. Quaint alleyways lead to unmistakably Italian piazzas where you can relax over lunch, but, as everywhere else in Switzerland, the traffic laws are obeyed without question – it really is a quirky blend. Lugano is a delight to explore and is centred around the café-lined main square, an ideal place to people-watch over a rich coffee. There’s time to explore the myriad twisting lanes of the Old Town, browse the shops with their dazzling displays before we return to our hotel, where we dine this evening.

DAY 7 – BERGAMO After breakfast, we visit the town of Bergamo for a morning guided tour. Said by many to be the most beautiful town in all of northern Italy, Bergamo is simply enchanting. The historic centre – or Città Alta (Upper Town) – strikingly crowns a hill and was ruled for centuries by Venice, one of the world’s great powers in the Renaissance, when much of the city we admire today was built, while the walls separating the Old Town from the Città Bassa (Lower Town) have recently been granted the status of World Heritage Site. The focus of hilltop Bergamo is the Piazza Vecchia, a graceful main square that gathers together some of Italy’s finest medieval and Renaissance buildings, including a palace and grand houses featuring wrought-iron balconies. Marvel at the 12th-century bell tower from ground level, but also consider a walk to the top to enjoy irresistible views over the jumble of ancient roofs, the maze of lanes and alleys and the lush Lombardian landscapes beyond.

The cobbled streets of the upper town are lined by a wealth of thriving traditional shops including bakers and butchers displaying cakes, salamis, hams and other Italian specialities. Browse the antique

shops, stroll around the city walls or just absorb an atmosphere that captures bygone centuries. For artlovers the acclaimed Accademia Carrara, just a short distance from the Old Town, displays masterpieces by Velázquez and Botticelli, among others.

Lugano

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for our flight home.

HOTELS Grand Hotel Cadenabbia (Cadenabbia di Griante) This four-star hotel overlooks Lake Como and dates back to the early 19th century, welcoming many well-known guests, including Queen Victoria. It was originally a private villa, and today it still exudes charm and elegance, with public areas featuring high ceilings, columns and intricate plasterwork. All rooms have air-conditioning, TV, mini-bar, hairdryer and safe, while the hotel also boasts a swimming pool. The topfloor restaurant has views over the lake, and there’s a terrace where you can take in the stunning panorama.

Hotel Regina Olga (Cernobbio) One of the foremost attributes of this four-star hotel is its enviable spot on the southern shores of Lake Como, which many feel is among its most picturesque parts. Savour the glorious views across the shimmering waters to the town of Como. Your traditionally styled hotel faces the lake and has a delightful outside terrace and swimming pool in its lovely private gardens, plus a bar and restaurant. All the air-conditioned rooms have satellite TV, minibar, Wi-Fi, safe and hairdryer.

Grand Hotel Menaggio (Menaggio) This four-star hotel in the town of Menaggio is a lakefront delight, located a short stroll from the

centre, where you will find a number of restaurants, cafés and shops. The hotel is of a classical design and boasts a relaxing lounge and bar area that opens out

DINING CHOICES Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio include daily breakfast only so you have the flexibility to enjoy the local cuisine at the town’s fine restaurants. If you prefer to dine in at your hotel, you may pre-book dinner for four nights at €54pp, or dinner for seven nights at €94pp.

onto the heated lakeside swimming pool and sun terrace. All rooms are air-conditioned and have a safe, satellite TV, minibar and hairdryer. Stays at this hotel include breakfast only, but a pre-bookable dining option at the hotel is available.

Please note: Where hotels feature an outdoor swimming pool, this will be open during the summer months (weather permitting). The use of air conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.

Visit Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands

27

L A K E M AGG I O R E , O R TA & T H E M AT T E R H O R N 8 days from only €1,319pp

A spectacularly beautiful tour taking in the villages and islands of Italy’s most sophisticated lake, Maggiore, visits to Lakes Como and Orta, plus breathtaking alpine scenery, the chic Swiss resort of Zermatt and the iconic Matterhorn.

Our desire to experience new countries is as timeless as the beauty of the Italian lakes, which have been delighting visitors for many centuries. Indeed, it was the arrival of the British during the days of the ‘Grand Tour’ that first brought fame to sublime Lake Maggiore and helped to create the sophisticated villages nestling like pearls on a string along its verbena-clad shores. This wonderful combination of magnificent Swiss mountain scenery and Italy’s tranquil, crystal-clear lakes creates a stunning visual montage that cries out to be explored.

It’s hard to describe the flawless beauty of the Italian lakes, yet viewing them you’ll immediately understand why so many artists, composers and writers have sought peace and inspiration here. The heady mix of serene waters, forest-clad hillsides, medieval villages, orange-blossom-scented warm air and delicious food make them an irresistible destination.

Lake Maggiore straddles both Italy and Switzerland and we stay in Stresa, a typically stylish Italian town that was once a favourite haunt of Hemingway, Chaplin and many others. We explore not only Lake

28

Maggiore but also the equally beautiful Lake Como and lesser-known Lake Orta, one of the most spellbinding places you’ll ever visit. With the arc of the imposing Alps stretching out along the horizon, you’ll enjoy arguably the finest mountain scenery on the planet during your visits to Switzerland – chic Locarno and dramatic Zermatt, nestling at the base of the world’s most mesmerising peak, the mighty Matterhorn. Then there are the delightful lost valleys, tumbling glacier streams and classic chalet scenes that, when blended together, offer a truly inspirational tour.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN STRESA Arrive at the airport for your flight to Milan Bergamo. We transfer by coach to the captivating town of Stresa on the peaceful shores of Lake Maggiore. Walking the cobbled streets of Stresa’s Old Town is like winding back in time to the elegance of a largely bygone era. There are many restaurant and café options in the main square, while modern and more traditionally minded shops sit side by side. You’ll stay in a choice of four-star or four-star

PRICE INCLUDES • Cruise Lake Maggiore’s enchanting Borromean Islands, with a guided tour of the Baroque palace on Isola Bella • Travel through the Simplon Pass to Zermatt and the Matterhorn • Visit picture-perfect Lake Como to see why it inspired Byron, Shelley and Wordsworth •

Enjoy a full-day tour visiting Cannobio and Locarno, with a journey on the Centovalli railway through spectacular alpine scenery

• Tour one of Italy’s most exquisite stretches of water, Lake Orta, and its medieval village of Orta San Giulio • Take the opportunity to join a complimentary guided walk

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights in four-star or four-star superior accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,319PP

Situated amid beautiful manicured gardens looking out to the Borromean Islands on the lakeside promenade is the historic four-star Grand Hotel Bristol. Its chic marbled lobby and lounge area feature glass chandeliers and fine frescoes, leading to an atmospheric bar and winter garden, while all the rooms are decorated in classic styles. The large outdoor swimming pool is set in the grounds, while the spa centre includes an indoor pool.

DAY 2 – LAKE MAGGIORE & BORROMEAN ISLANDS Unmistakably Mediterranean in character, Lake Maggiore’s shores are lined with oleanders, palms and aromatic verbena, with its tranquil waters reflecting the azure sky above.

Just offshore are the fascinating Borromean Islands.

They take their name from a Milanese family who once owned the four rocky outcrops and, in the 17th century, commissioned the finest architects and landscape gardeners to craft luxurious residences on them. Pride of place goes to the amazing Baroque palazzo on Isola Bella, which we visit on a fascinating morning guided tour. Its resplendent rooms feature refined furniture, sculptures and paintings, with intricate parquet flooring and elegant pastel-coloured plasterwork; underground you’ll find elaborate shell-adorned grottoes. Even more impressive are the exquisite grounds featuring overlapping terraces imaginatively planted with orange and lemon trees, magnolias and a host of other fragrant and colourful shrubs and plants. Marble statues and unique white peacocks add the final touches to this dramatic display. Previous distinguished visitors to the palace include Napoleon and Josephine as well as Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

The second island we visit, Isola dei Pescatori, is a complete contrast. Its narrow cobbled streets, picturesque harbour and charming buildings, which are ideal for strolling around, reflect its 10th-century origins and the ancient fishing tradition after which it is named. This is the perfect place for a relaxing fish

Centovalli Railway

Isola Bella

superior hotels for seven nights, with breakfast and dinner.

Superbly located in its own landscaped gardens on the lakeside promenade is the four-star Hotel Astoria. It has been family run for three generations and is tastefully furnished with spacious lounges, a rooftop terrace offering fine views across the lake and surrounding mountains, a swimming pool and terrace set in lush gardens and an excellent restaurant with views of the water. The bedrooms have a spacious, relaxing feel and feature air-conditioning, satellite TV and Wi-Fi. The four-star superior Regina Palace is one of the grandest hotels on Lake Maggiore and, dating from 1908, it truly reflects the belle-époque era with its chandeliers, brass and wrought-iron fittings so typical of the period. The hotel faces the lake and is set in extensive landscaped gardens to the front and rear with terraces, a tennis court and outdoor swimming pool. There’s also an indoor pool in the relaxing spa and an elegant restaurant. All the rooms are air-conditioned and luxuriously decorated and furnished.

29

Lake Como

lunch in one of the excellent lakeside restaurants – many with enchanting secluded terraces – before we cruise back to Stresa during the afternoon.

DAY 3 – CENTOVALLI RAILWAY Long and relatively narrow, Lake Maggiore straddles the Swiss–Italian border and this morning you’ll enjoy a totally different perspective of the waterscape as we take a private boat to Cannobio. You’ll have some free time in this pretty lakeside town before boarding a coach for the fashionable Swiss resort of Locarno, which nestles below the towering peaks of the Alps.

During our journey you’ll see increasingly dramatic snow-capped mountains, their colours gently changing from pinks to greens and blues as the sun casts its ever-changing shadows. You’ll catch glimpses of locals going about their daily lives while birds of prey soar on the thermals.

Locarno is very much a Swiss town but the twisting lanes and alleys of its historic centre bear more resemblance to Tuscany than Zurich, lending it a real charm; its history is encapsulated in a mighty medieval castle that dominates from above. After some free time we board the narrow-gauge Centovalli train for a spectacularly scenic trip back across the Italian border to Domodossola. Named after the socalled ‘hundred valleys’ through which it passes, the train features specially designed panoramic carriages so you can sit back and enjoy amazing views of the glorious mountain scenery of cascading waterfalls, deep ravines, chestnut forests and romantic hillside villages. From Domodossola we return by coach to Stresa.

DAY 4 – LAKE COMO This morning we explore northern Italy’s most famous lake, described by Wordsworth as ‘a treasure whom the earth keeps to herself’. For centuries Lake Como has attracted visitors – including Byron, Shelley, Churchill and numerous others – seeking relaxation, culture and creative stimulus from its picture-perfect setting. The famous Roman chronicler Pliny the Younger, who was born in Como Town, wrote of the

30

lake’s luxuriant beauty and it has inspired some of the finest works by greats such as the composers Verdi and Rossini. The town itself is renowned for its imposing cathedral, delightful parks, grand hotels and the majestic Villa Olmo, which has hosted many eminent guests including Napoleon, Archduke Ferdinand and Garibaldi, the ‘father of modern Italy’.

During your free time you could take the funicular railway up the hill to Brunate for breathtaking views of the lake and town. The shore is lined by attractive pastel-painted villas, faded by decades of sunshine, with winding lanes ascending to the town’s hilly centre.

cable car to the summit of Mount Mottarone, taking in alpine gardens en route. Alternatively, boat trips to Isola Madre with its ravishing botanical gardens, or Pallanza, a charming town with Roman origins, offer wondrous views. The Maggiore lakeside exudes an ambience of gentility that has its origins in the days of the ‘Grand Tour’ when Europe’s 19thcentury aristocracy, having crossed the border from Switzerland, experienced their first taste of Italy.

Aficionados of literature may like to take a drink at the bar of the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees, featured in Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms and frequented by the likes of George Bernard Shaw and Charlie Chaplin.

DAY 5 – FREE DAY Today you can choose to relax in your hotel, take a swim in the pool or explore Stresa’s numerous delights. Enjoying a coffee in the Piazza Cadorna is a preferred pastime for many, but there’s also a

DAY 6 – ZERMATT & THE MATTERHORN You can expect some truly breathtaking mountain vistas today as we climb the foothills of the Alps, cross the Swiss frontier and head into the high Alps themselves. We take the Simplon Pass, an ancient

The Matterhorn

traders’ and smugglers’ route that didn’t have a vehicular road until Napoleon had one constructed in the early 19th century. Continuing on, the scenery becomes ever more spectacular, with lush wildflowercovered meadows studded with tiny shepherds’ shelters and dense forests crowned by snowy peaks glistening in the sun. You could be lucky and catch a glimpse of an elusive ibex, a chamois or even a golden eagle soaring high above. You’ll marvel at the engineering feats required to build the road as it traverses towering viaducts and jaw-dropping precipices, passing countless mountain streams and tumbling waterfalls before we arrive at the legendary village of Zermatt. Nestling at the foot of the mighty, iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is classic Switzerland, a car-free jumble of chalets and old wooden buildings strewn along a valley floor of pastures alive with the sound of cowbells, while cable cars and soaring footpaths weave ever upwards to the majestic amphitheatre of the surrounding lofty summits.

The ultimate alpine peak, the Matterhorn is relatively unobtrusive until you reach the end of the village and turn a corner, when the Swiss national symbol is revealed in its magnificent splendour… the sight is truly one of life’s ‘wow’ moments! For an even better view, take the cog railway up 10,000 feet to Gornergrat, the awe-inspiring mountain wonderland of glaciers and summits. Alternatively, relax in one of Zermatt’s many cosy cafés or take a gentle ride in a horse-drawn carriage.

DAY 7 – LAKE ORTA Our final day, and we experience one of the tour’s real highlights. Orta is probably the prettiest of the Italian lakes, yet also one of the least well known. You’ll immediately discern Orta’s exceptional atmospheric charm and understand why it’s regarded as something of a hidden gem.

Surrounded on three sides by deep blue water, the romantic lakeside village of Orta San Giulio has so far avoided the tourist hordes. Its pebble-studded lanes and stepped alleys – lined with myriad traditional food shops selling the gorgeous produce for which Italy is so justifiably renowned – lead down to the shore and a main square.

You’ll adore the village’s medieval architecture of picturesque buildings with shuttered windows in typically Italian shades of ochre, magenta and light blue that create a kaleidoscope of colour. A boat trip takes you to the island of San Giulio, which features an enchanting basilica – its opulent interior contains a spectacular carved black marble pulpit, wonderfully preserved frescoes and a vertebra which, according to legend, belonged to a dragon.

Before we return to our hotel we visit Arona at the southern end of Lake Maggiore to view the monumental statue of San Carlo Borromeo, Archbishop of Milan. This enormous 17th-century bronze stands over 110 feet high and for centuries was the world’s tallest bronze statue. It crowns a hill commanding wonderful views across the lake and the surrounding countryside.

Mergozzo. We follow a delightful track through an unspoilt forest brimming with wildlife, with our naturalist guide describing the flora and fauna we encounter. It’s always fascinating getting so far off the beaten track and, after time for a coffee at our final destination at Mergozzo village, we return to Stresa by train. Places are limited and must be prebooked. Please advise at the time of booking if you wish to participate.

Also, the day on which the walk takes place

is usually your free day and is subject to weather conditions. The walk is available from May to September only.

Please note: The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to midSeptember), depending on the temperature. Where hotels feature an outdoor swimming pool, this will be open during the summer months (weather permitting).

Zermatt

Isola dei Pescatori

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

COMPLIMENTARY GUIDED WALK An increasing number of you like to experience the scenery on foot, so you may want to join our complimentary guided walk. Covering about 3.5 to 4 miles, it’s not arduous, though light walking shoes or strong trainers are advisable.

We begin with an eight-minute local train ride to the tiny hamlet of Verbania-Pallanza, situated on one of Italy’s most gorgeous lakes – little-known

31

PUGLIA ,LECCE & VIESTE U N D I S C O V E R E D I TA LY 8 days from only €979pp

Puglia, little-known, ruggedly beautiful, fringed by the sea – where the magnificent architecture of Lecce and Bari, coastal charm of Vieste, ‘hobbit’-like conical trulli and local cuisine offer a delightfully different experience of Italy.

Blessed with abundant sunshine and fringed by the bountiful waters of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Puglia is a land of plenty. One of the most fertile regions of Italy, it produces more olive oil than the rest of the country combined, most of its fish, 80 per cent of Europe’s pasta and more wine than the whole of Germany. Unsurprisingly, its natural riches have attracted a host of invaders throughout history – ancient Greeks colonised the area in the 8th century BC, then came the Romans, Byzantines, Saracens, Normans, Spanish and Bourbons, before Puglia became part of unified Italy in 1861. Each culture has left a distinct footprint, from the local dialect peppered with Greek expressions to the Moorish ambience of the narrow streets of Bari, where traders’

32

wares spill out onto the cobbled streets. It is this melding of cultures that makes Puglia – the ‘heel’ of Italy’s great ‘boot’ – delightfully different.

Overlooked by many who prefer to head to Italy’s better-known attractions, Puglia echoes with its own history. In Lecce, an imperial column marks the end of the Appian Way, one of the greatest Roman roads, and Hannibal dealt Rome its heaviest defeat at nearby Cannae. A gem of a baroque city, Lecce also boasts around a hundred churches of myriad styles, ranging from Romanesque to Rococo. Its centre is a labyrinth of alleyways, and it’s easy to imagine Roman officials, medieval merchants and richly clad bishops going about their lives. Every town seems to have a Norman

cathedral, decorated with intricate stonework, colourful frescoes and fine paintings. Huge Spanishbuilt castles overlook the rolling countryside, while the ports that once thrummed with crusaders embarking for the Holy Land now have a relaxed feel.

As you explore, it becomes evident that Puglia is not the Italy of the north. Its rugged limestone landscape is carpeted with olive groves and dotted with villages of white, flat-roofed houses resembling those of Greece and its islands, while the beauty of the forested Gargano Peninsula stands comparison with the more famous Amalfi coast. But there are many features unique to this area, none more so than the trulli, the cone-shaped houses that have

Marvel at extraordinary Matera

PRICE INCLUDES

• Discover Lecce, the ‘Florence of the South’, and its many stunning architectural gems with a local guide •

See the instantly recognisable trulli houses of Alberobello with their conical roofs, set against undulating countryside reminiscent of Tuscany

• Enjoy a guided tour of medieval Matera and its astonishing, UNESCO listed cave village hewn entirely from rock • Tour the old town of Bari with a local guide and see its remarkable Romanesque cathedral • See the beautiful Foresta Umbra Nature Reserve and visit the crusader church of Monte Sant’Angelo • Learn the fascinating craft of pasta making and enjoy a light lunch at a family-run osteria

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in conveniently located four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner (three dinners will be taken at local restaurants)

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €979PP

restaurant, bar, outside terrace and spa. Its elegant rooftop swimming pool (open in the summer months, weather permitting) has panoramic views over Lecce.

Some of our tours stay at the four-star Grand Hotel Tiziano. Also within walking distance of the Old Town, this contemporary hotel has an atrium restaurant and outdoor swimming pool (open June to September, weather permitting).

DAY 2 – TOUR OF LECCE Lecce is known as the ‘Florence of the South’ for good reason – its architecture is outstanding and around every corner are buildings of beauty and interest waiting to be discovered. Our walking tour begins at the imposing Porta Napoli gate, where we meet our local guide, and from there we explore the vibrant Jewish quarter before taking in the Basilica di Santa Croce. A remarkable example of creativity, this Baroque church has an intricate facade, while inside we can only marvel at the gorgeous decoration and multi-coloured marble columns. There are so many beautiful details in the stonework you could lose hours gazing at them. The tour continues through the Old Town, rich with history, and we pause at a bank that has more to its history than money – it was once used to store olive oil. Another surprise awaits at the picturesque Piazza Sant’Oronzo, a bustling square set on the site of a partially exposed Roman amphitheatre. Built in the 2nd century, the amphitheatre seated over 25,000 people and it’s possible, looking down across the sweeping bleached stone seating, to envisage crowds gathering two millennia ago to enjoy all sorts of entertainment. We then amble down shop-lined streets to the elegant Piazza Duomo, where Lecce’s cathedral awaits. Built in 1144, its imposing exterior is only matched by its breathtaking interior featuring 12 side chapels containing paintings by a variety of artists.

This afternoon you are free to explore. Lecce hums with life with a distinctly southern Italian feel, so soak up the ambience of its streets, relaxed cafés and refined boutiques while taking in all its baroque magnificence. In the evening we dine in an excellent restaurant, once a Roman granary, where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

become unofficial symbols of Puglia.

Here in the deep southeast of Italy, nature and history are powerful influences, the locals still wink cheekily at authority and the relaxed and communal way of life is in harmony with the sunny climate.

Famed for its passionate embrace of life, simple cuisine, flavoursome wines, historic cities and charming coastal villages, it’s a delightful place to get away from it all.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN LECCE Arrive at the airport for your flight. On arrival, we transfer by coach to the four-star Hilton Garden Inn in Lecce for two nights. This fine modern hotel is a short walk from the Old Town and features a

Lecce

33

DAY 3 – ALBEROBELLO During our drive this morning, the view to the horizon is an ocean of olive trees, studded with the occasional whitewashed village, a landscape underlining Puglia’s connections with Greece and North Africa. Soon you’ll begin to notice whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs – these are trulli, Puglia’s signature dwellings. In this corner of Puglia, the countryside blooms with patches of oak forest bisected by dry stone walls – almost reminiscent of rural Tuscany.

We arrive in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Remarkably, some parts of Alberobello are almost exclusively composed of trulli, creating an otherworldly feel – no wonder some compare it to a ‘hobbit’ town. For many, this is a highlight of the tour and we have time to explore, discovering how trulli were built, their intriguing origins and why many are adorned with Christian, pagan or celestial symbols.

We then continue to Matera, where we stay two nights with breakfast and dinner at the four-star MH Matera. This contemporary hotel is set in landscaped gardens and features a lovely outdoor pool (generally open between June and September, weather permitting).

DAY 4 – MATERA This morning we have a guided tour of Matera, which is notable as one of the first permanently inhabited places in Italy and also a UNESCO World Heritage site. At its heart are the original troglodyte cave dwellings dating back over 9,000 years; astonishingly, people still live in them today. Everything you would expect in a conventional town is here, with churches, shops and artisan workshops all hewn from the naked rock. Is there anywhere else you can walk along a street that is the roof of the house below?

We return to our hotel this afternoon to relax – the perfect opportunity to sun yourself by the pool. Or you may choose to stay in Matera and visit its many fascinating buildings – the 13th-century Romanesque cathedral is well worth your time. This evening, we complete a memorable day enjoying regional dishes at our dinner in a restaurant in Matera’s Old Town.

DAY 5 – BARI Nestling on the Adriatic, Bari was a thriving walled port even before the Romans arrived and was briefly the capital of Byzantine Italy. During Norman times

it was thought to be as significant as Venice.

This morning we have a guided tour of the Old Town where there is so much to discover, such as the imposing medieval fortress and the massive Romanesque cathedral with its 11th-century frescoes, while opera-lovers may know that Bari is home to the magnificent Teatro Petruzzelli. For many, though, the focal point is the Basilica di San Nicola, whose 900-year-old vaulted crypt is the final resting place of Saint Nicholas, Patron Saint of Russia – better known to us as Father Christmas.

As we explore Bari’s tightly knit streets, look down its side streets to take in other aspects of traditional life, from shops displaying freshly caught sea bass, cuttlefish or lobster to stalls creaking under the weight of locally grown olives, tomatoes and peppers, and families eating meals with their windows and doors open. Here and there, you may come across chattering matriarchs sitting outside their doorsteps making, hand-rolling and cutting different types of pasta, a practice unchanged through time.

Leaving Bari, we call at the picturesque fishing port of Trani, then the landscape changes as we climb the Gargano peninsular coastal road. The warm air is heavy with Mediterranean aromas of pine and wild flowers, and we soon arrive in the coastal town of Vieste. We stay for three nights with breakfast and dinner, at either four-star hotel – the Palace Hotel Vieste or the Hotel Degli Aranci, both situated a short stroll from the beach next to the Old Town.

The Hotel Degli Aranci has been the lifelong project of its owners; it boasts a homely, welcoming atmosphere thanks to the genuine warmth of its staff. The rooms are nicely appointed, well maintained and air-conditioned. Again there is free use of the hotel’s private beach plus two sunbeds and an umbrella (June to September) per room.

The Palace Hotel has been converted from a 15th-century noble’s house into a classic hotel. All the rooms are individually decorated and, of course, air-conditioned. There is a bar and restaurant, plus free use of the private beach with two sunbeds and an umbrella (June to September) per room.

See the unique trulli houses in Alberobello

DAY 6 – FREE DAY IN VIESTE Phoenician in origin, Vieste is one of Italy’s most

Gargano

34

attractive coastal towns, situated on a rocky promontory overlooking turquoise waters with beaches either side. An enchanting jumble of white, flat-roofed buildings perched on cliff edges and dominated by its simple 13th-century cathedral, it’s an ideal place for your free day to relax. You may choose to amble through ancient alleyways, walk barefoot along the beach past the giant chalk stack – a remarkable geological landmark – enjoy a lunch of local seafood or just find a quiet spot to wile away the hours with a book. In the evening, we dine in a restaurant set in a renovated natural cave directly under the cathedral in the heart of town; run by a local family, it serves the traditional dishes of this corner of Puglia.

DAY 7 – MONTE SANT’ANGELO This morning we arrive at Monte Sant’Angelo, a striking hilltop village with 360-degree vistas of the surrounding forests and the sea. It is one of Europe’s most important pilgrimage sites, where it is said that Saint Michael the Archangel appeared on several occasions in the days of early Christendom.

The Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo, a complex of religious monuments and a striking octagonal tower, now stands on this hallowed site. The air cools as we

descend into one of the crypts cut into the limestone rock below the Sanctuary and discover marble carvings and multicoloured frescoes, some 1,200 years old. Here you are following in the footsteps of illustrious pilgrims, including popes and monarchs, not to mention throngs of crusaders, many of whom scratched messages of hope on the walls, still visible today, on their journeys to and from the Holy Land.

We continue inland into the mysterious Foresta Umbra, roughly translated as ‘Dark Forest’. This atmospheric area is a natural wonderland of ancient trees, considered one of Europe’s finest orchid habitats. Heading towards the coastal town of Peschici, we enjoy a light lunch of local specialities, and discover the art of hand making pasta in a short demonstration by an expert.

We arrive back in Vieste with time to relax before dinner at our hotel.

DAY 8 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Please note: The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to midSeptember), depending on the temperature.

Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo

35

C L A S S I C A L I TA LY FLORENCE, SIENA, ASSISI & ROME 8 days from only €1,179pp

Everything that makes Italy such a richly rewarding destination features on this tour – the magnificent history of Rome, Florence’s majestic Renaissance legacy, the glorious Tuscan countryside and the deep culinary passion of its welcoming people.

36

For centuries Italy has attracted visitors in search of culture and romance. Few countries can hope to compare to its huge contributions to art, architecture, design, music, scenery, food and wine. It is home to an extensive classical civilisation, the Renaissance, the Roman Catholic Church and the Vatican. Blend this with the striking natural beauty of the Tuscan countryside, the vitality of Rome and its effervescent inhabitants and you have unbeatable ingredients for a tour.

We visit some of Tuscany’s great cities – Florence, Siena and Arezzo. Birthplace of Dante and the Renaissance, Florence has been described as the most captivating city in Italy and became the cultural and intellectual hub of Europe for 300 years. In the wake of the city’s huge economic prosperity, artists and sculptors flocked here, diverting some of this new wealth in their own direction as they filled the palaces and churches with some of the world’s most outstanding works. On our tour of the Uffizi Gallery you’ll see masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael, Titian and many others.

PRICE INCLUDES •

Immerse yourself in millennia of history on a guided tour of Rome, home of the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican and more

• Marvel at the elegance of Florence, ‘Pearl of the Renaissance’, with an expert local guide •

Experience the wonders of the Uffizi, quite simply one of the world’s greatest art galleries, with a reserved timed entry to avoid the queues

• Witness the magnificent basilica in Assisi, named after the city’s most famous son, Saint Francis

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Savour the flavours of Rome Enjoy more than 10 tastings on our fourhour walking tour of the vibrant Trastevere area. You’ll sample the finest cheeses, freshest pasta, wines in a cellar older than the Colosseum, and much more.

From €92pp.

Tour the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with an expert Skip the queues and discover some of the world’s greatest art collections on a reserved tour with an authorised guide. Marvel at the frescoed chambers painted by Raphael and the beautiful Sistine Chapel featuring astonishing masterpieces by Michelangelo.

Call to pre-book this optional experience.

From €49pp.

• Enjoy medieval Siena’s outstanding cathedral and graceful main square on a guided tour • Take a walking tour of Arezzo, one of Tuscany’s wonderfully unspoilt medieval cities • Savour the captivating Tuscan countryside as we drive from one magnificent destination to the next

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and four dinners • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,179PP

Wander the streets of charming Siena

Florence

We go inside the vast defensive walls of medieval Siena to sample its extraordinary atmosphere – it is made up of a collection of small parishes, each with its own unique identity. The city also has perhaps the most beautiful square in the world, the Piazza del Campo with its soaring campanile.

Assisi is rightly famous as the birthplace of Francis, the nation’s patron saint and one of the most famous figures in Christian history. The basilica bearing his name is breathtaking in its detail and a draw for pilgrims. But Assisi is also a picturesque riot of colour – houses are adorned with window boxes crammed with geraniums, adding contrast to the walls behind.

Finally, of course, there’s Rome. Few cities on the planet can hope to match its sights. The grandeur of the Colosseum, recalling its bloody entertainments of centuries past, the Appian Way, Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, the Trevi Fountain – the list goes on.

Far removed from pizza and pasta, Italy has cultivated a restaurant culture that shows the part food and drink plays in life here. Fresh vegetables combined with meats, seafood, a splash of olive oil and a hint of garlic create simple, traditional dishes.

One of the greatest joys of visiting Italy is, of course, being among the stylish Italians themselves. If there is a single national characteristic of the people it is living life to the full, which creates the wonderful

atmosphere that permeates the streets. As your tour draws to a close, you may wish to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain and hope that the promise of a return to the Eternal City comes true.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN ROME Arrive at the airport for your flight to Rome. We then transfer by coach to delightful Arezzo in the heart of Tuscany, an ideal base for the next few days. We stay for four nights at the four-star Hotel Minerva, with breakfast and dinner. Located three-quarters of a mile from the old town, the hotel began as a family-owned restaurant half a century ago and remains in the same hands today. Traditional Tuscan cuisine is a speciality here. The rest of the day can be spent at leisure, allowing you time to settle into the hotel or, if you wish, start to explore.

DAY 2 – SIENA After breakfast we drive to Siena, whose historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This was, during the 12th and 13th centuries, one of the world’s largest and richest cities. An unprecedented period of building resulted in palaces, grandiose townhouses and piazzas. Unusual in its half-moon shape and surrounded by tall, striking buildings, the main square – the Piazza del Campo – is stunning. Just to sit here, enjoying a drink and reflecting on times gone by, is a real pleasure. It’s a different story twice a year, though, when it hosts the famous Palio horse race, a frantic three-lap, saddle-less charge around the square that attracts huge crowds and in which rivalries between the different parishes of the city come to a head.

Siena’s cathedral, or Duomo, is one of Italy’s greatest religious buildings – a bold statement given

37

See the beautiful Tuscan countryside

their abundance in this country. Fashioned from black and white marble, the interior features the most delicate and intricate carvings, some by the great master Michelangelo himself. The Duomo is overwhelmingly impressive now, but a nave planned during the 14th century would have made it Christendom’s largest church. The city’s rapid decline after the Black Death in 1348 put paid to that, but also accounts for its astonishing preservation. During the journey to and from Siena you’ll see some of the famously scenic Tuscan countryside.

DAY 3 – FLORENCE & THE UFFIZI GALLERY For three centuries, well-heeled young people went on a ‘Grand Tour’ of Europe’s finest sights and cities as part of their cultural education. Florence was deservedly on the map of those travellers – and the ‘Pearl of the Renaissance’ remains one of the highlights of any visit to Italy. It owes its wealth to the explosion of commerce during the Middle Ages.

Backed by powerful banks, the wool industry and other textile interests turned Florence into one of the world’s richest cities. Political influence was under the control of the nobility, especially the Medici, who married into the leading royal families of Europe.

During our guided tour you’ll marvel at the tangible results of that wealth, such as the famous cathedral – which can house a congregation of 10,000 beneath a Renaissance-era, terracotta-tiled dome that rises high above the city.

For masterpieces gathered in one place, the Uffizi is unrivalled. When the Medicis donated their artistic legacy to the gallery, it was partly ‘to attract the curiosity of foreigners’. The million-plus visitors who flock there each year are evidence of that but, this afternoon, you bypass the queues for this Florentine highlight with a reserved timed visit. With the list of artists whose works feature in the Uffizi including Botticelli, Raphael, Leonardo, Giotto, Cimabue, Titian, Caravaggio and Michelangelo, the magnificence of its exhibits is clear. Florence isn’t just about art, though – it’s a delightful location in its own right, from the buzz

38

of the Piazza della Signoria to a crossing of the Arno River over the Ponte Vecchio. There are also high-end shops and colourful markets that complement the city’s artistic treasures.

DAY 4 – AREZZO & WINE TASTING Arezzo is a wonderful old town that has nestled behind its imposing stone walls for centuries, hidden away from the tourists. On this morning’s walking tour we learn of the fascinating stories behind the many ravishing views you’ll encounter in Arezzo’s historic centre. In common with other places on this tour, the area flourished in medieval times, coming under the rule of the Medicis around the 15th century. The town contains a range of architectural styles which blend to produce a charming whole – Romanesque churches are juxtaposed with timberbeamed shops, linked by intimate cobbled squares.

Arezzo’s Piazza Grande, lined by narrow-fronted multistorey buildings and with a steeply sloping pavement, is one of Europe’s most evocative and atmospheric main squares, while inside the Basilica di San Francesco are the Legends of the True Cross frescoes by Piero della Francesca.

We visit the Villa La Ripa this afternoon to enjoy a wine tasting. This is an impressive Renaissance villa with a cantina dating back to Roman times. Located in the undulating countryside just outside Arezzo, it’s surrounded by olive groves and vineyards and produces a selection of wines including Sangiovese, a Tuscan red. The owners, only the fourth family to own the property in over 500 years, are passionate about the villa and we will find out more about the history of this wine estate and enjoy a tasting.

DAY 5 – ASSISI After breakfast we leave Tuscany to drive to another of Italy’s romantically beautiful regions – Umbria. Our first destination is Assisi, famous the world over as the birthplace of Saint Francis, patron saint of Italy and one of the most extraordinary figures in the history of the Roman Catholic Church. Born into privilege, he

had a vision that led to him rejecting his inheritance and renouncing an un-Christian lifestyle. After living the life of a beggar, he ultimately found his vocation as the founder of the Franciscans, the monastic order that bears his name. A few years after his death, construction of the Basilica di San Francesco began, Siena

financed by donations from all over Europe. The result is one of the most beautiful shrines in the Christian world, a focus for pilgrimage that is adorned by the work of Giotto, Simone Martini and others. We have ample time to absorb every aspect of a building that is actually two churches, one on top of the other. The remains of Saint Francis lie in a sarcophagus in the crypt. In keeping with Franciscan principles, the mood inside is one of the utmost respect, silence being requested. Outside the basilica you can savour Assisi’s flower-adorned streets, life-affirming views over the Umbrian countryside and fountain-splashed piazzas before we head to Rome, arriving in the early evening.

Our hotel in Rome is either the four-star Eurostars St John or the four-star Welcome Piram Hotel. The Eurostars Saint John Hotel is conveniently located approximately a 15-minute walk away from the Colosseum, with good connections to other parts of the city and its main sights nearby by metro and bus. Housed in a grand 19th century building, the Welcome Piram hotel is well located within walking distance from some of Rome’s most famous attractions, located close to the main Termini station.

DAY 6 – ROME This morning we have a guided tour of Rome – probably nowhere else on earth is so much history concentrated in such a small area. You’ll witness the monuments that capture millennia of artistry and classical construction, political and religious influence, spectacle and innovation. Italy’s capital owes its grandeur to the Roman Empire, which, at its peak, held sway over much of the known world, as well as to the papacy. Imagine the noise, chaos and colour of a chariot race in the Circus Maximus or blood being spilled and emperors ruling on who should live or die during gladiatorial battles in the Colosseum. Marvel at the white marble Victor Emmanuel II memorial,

The Colosseum

witness the Vatican (with Saint Peter’s Basilica at its heart) and Palatine Hill, where the city’s elite relaxed in their opulent villas. Not everything in Rome is on such a large or globally important scale, though. There are quiet, intimate areas too: cosy piazzas, lively bars and friendly restaurants where the waiters will chat all day if you let them.

This afternoon you’re free to explore as you desire. You may wish to visit the Vatican Museums (entrance fee not included), the only part of the Papal Palace you can visit independently. This is one of the largest complexes of museums in the world, with collections to do justice to its dimensions. Many works by the finest artists of the Renaissance are on display, as are Egyptian antiquities and exquisite examples of furniture, sculpture and silverware. And, of course, there are Michelangelo’s wondrous ceiling frescoes on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Alternatively you could take a walk along the Appian Way, where thousands of Spartacus’s slave army were crucified as brutal punishment for their rebellion, or admire the craftsmanship and scale of the Trevi Fountain.

DAY 7 – FREE DAY IN ROME You have a free day to immerse yourself further in the Eternal City. The weight of the past is inescapable as you view the magnificent heart of the Roman Empire. Gazing at the Forum, the Colosseum and the Pantheon, it’s easy to let your mind wander and imagine those who have preceded you, giants who made history rather than just being part of it: Julius Caesar, Emperor Augustus, Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Take a stroll around the Piazza Navona, Rome’s most picturesque square, lined with luxurious cafés where present-day Romans come to see and be seen. The Baroque fountains lend a cooling ambience to the atmosphere. Walk down the Spanish Steps as countless visitors have done since the 18th century.

Take a coffee in the city’s oldest café, Antico Caffè Greco, once the haunt of Keats, Byron and Wagner.

Assisi

Shoppers will find the finest clothes along the Via Condotti. Perhaps the most satisfying activity, though, is simply to wander where your feet take you and stop off where you wish to. Admire the city’s monuments, delve into its history, meet its people, sample its food and let your mind be carried away by the city’s splendour.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Please note: The use of air conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.

39

H I D D E N I TA LY PA D O VA , V I C E N Z A & M A N T O VA 6 days from only €859pp

Uncover the unseen gems of the breathtaking Veneto and beyond: astonishing architecture, cities steeped in history with deep cultural connections, and some of Italy’s best wines.

The mere mention of the Veneto conjures up images of Venice, the ‘floating city of canals’, but there is so much more to discover in this northeastern region.

The lush plains of the Po are dramatically offset by the rugged peaks of the Dolomites rising majestically to form the northwestern border, while the mirror-like Adriatic to the south embraces the gently curving Venetian coast. To the west is picturesque Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, surrounded by pretty villages on its flower-laden banks. Spread across the Veneto are miles of undulating countryside dotted with classically beautiful cities dating back to ancient times. Even before the arrival of the Romans, the Veneti prospered on this fertile land and many cities became cultural centres. Under Venetian rule, wealth from agriculture, commerce and the spoils of war funded their beautification, and numerous Renaissance palaces and public buildings emerged. Many were designed by Andrea Palladio, one of the greatest architects of all time and a great influence on British architecture in the 18th century.

Our fascinating tour takes us back in time to some of the most illustrious towns and cities. We unearth

40

the spectacular past of each destination, rich in history and captivating attractions, many with ancient remains revealing pre-Roman origins. We stay close to the heart of the Veneto in charming Castelfranco, a medieval town defended by perfectly preserved walls and towers. Chosen for its location and wonderfully atmospheric ambience, it is the perfect introduction to the region and the ideal base for exploring the Veneto. From here we visit extraordinary Vicenza, one of the world’s most beautiful cities and still one of Italy’s wealthiest, celebrated for its splendid and varied architecture. The perfect marriage of old and new, this thriving cosmopolitan city is home to some of Palladio’s best works. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or not, it’s nigh impossible not to be impressed by the classic sophistication of the Palladian buildings, which were bold innovations miles ahead of their time.

Next, we journey west of the Veneto to cultural Mantova, a picturesque city bordered on three sides by serene lakes. Known to the Italians as La Bella Addormentata – a sleeping beauty which has changed little since the middle ages – Mantova

Castelfranco Veneto

PRICE INCLUDES • Stay in medieval Castelfranco with fantastic views of the walled old town •

Experience extraordinary Vicenza, both ancient and modern, and the best place to view Palladio’s architectural masterpieces on a guided tour

• Visit atmospheric, lakeside Mantova, the inspiration for artists, poets and composers on a guided tour • Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Sigurtà Park and see an Italian interpretation of a English garden • See the enchanting riverside town of Bassano del Grappa in the foothills of the Prealps, and sample its famous liqueur •

Tour Villa Sandi, the palatial headquarters of a renowned Prosecco producer, and its impressive underground cellars and enjoy a tasting afterwards

• Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Brenta Canal and see the elegant Venetian villas of the elite •

Visit ancient Padova with its astonishing array of architectural styles and the famed university where Galileo once taught

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Five nights in centrally located four star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, plus breakfast Atmospheric Mantova has inspired artists, poets and composers

boasts an impressive list of cultural connections.

This is the birthplace of poet Virgil and composer Monteverdi, the playground of the Gonzaga dukes, and the setting for Verdi’s tragic opera, Rigoletto. We visit Bassano del Grappa, a beautiful town nestled serenely in the foothills of the Prealps, where the river Brenta flows from the valley and traverses the lowlands on its meander to the Adriatic. This wonderfully photogenic yet unassuming town is renowned for its grappa, a strong liqueur responsible for relieving generations of northern Italians from the pain of poverty. You’ll have a chance to taste the tipple for yourself on our visit to one of its top producers and learn how it is made. Our insightful tour continues to ancient Padova which exudes a youthful exuberance thanks to its prestigious university, affiliated with not one, but two of the greatest mathematicians and astronomers who ever lived: Galileo once taught here and Copernicus was a student! Much more than a university city, Padova was described by Shakespeare as a ‘nursery of Arts’ where Renaissance Englishmen could enjoy the ‘sweets of sweet philosophy’.

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €859PP

Then there is the exemplary cuisine for which Italy is so famous, and as with all our thoughtfully balanced tours, there is time to sample regional specialities and more. Often found on the menu are fresh fish and seafood, complemented by seasonal produce.

Pasta is enjoyed throughout the northeast, but more typical of the region are polenta and risotto. The Veneto produces an excellent variety of fine wines including Prosecco, which you’ll taste when we visit the underground cellars of one of Veneto’s top wine producers. For us, one of the greatest joys of visiting Italy is meeting the Italians, famous for being friendly, accommodating and possessing an infectious zest for life. Join us on our eye-opening tour of spectacular northeastern Italy and experience all the wonders this tremendous region has to offer.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN VENICE & CASTELFRANCO VENETO You fly to Venice Treviso airport. On arrival, we transfer by coach to Castelfranco Veneto and your hotel for the next five nights. Perfectly positioned just opposite the walled historic centre and the lively market square, the four-star Best Western Albergo Roma offers marvellous views of the medieval ramparts and impressive tower. Completely refurbished in 2016, the superb hotel has comfortable rooms with everything you’d expect from a hotel of this standard. A hearty breakfast buffet and panoramic views await you every morning in the bright and airy restaurant on the top floor, which also serves delicious dishes at dinner.

Castelfranco Veneto’s historic centre is a maze of narrow streets and tiny squares, protected within remarkably preserved, red-bricked ramparts. The town was established when the rulers of Treviso had a castle built in 1199 to defend against the neighbouring Padovans. Over time, it grew into a key trading post between Venice and northern Europe. Every corner of Castelfranco Veneto proudly evokes the presence of its most famous resident, the artist Giorgione whose pièce de résistance, the Madonna and Child, can be found in the town’s magnificent cathedral. Also worth a visit is the beautiful 18th-century Academic Theatre with some of the best acoustics in Italy. Just beyond the walls and a stone’s throw away from your hotel is Piazza Giorgione, one of the largest squares in the region.

DAY 2 - BRENTA CANAL CRUISE & PADOVA Over the centuries, the rivers flowing into the Venetian lagoon were ingeniously diverted to prevent

Castelfranco Veneto

41

siltation. As the canalised Brenta became a popular transport route, elegant Venetian villas, holiday homes of the elite, began to appear along its length.

One of the most relaxing ways to view these legacies of a leisured existence is to take a canal cruise, and that is exactly what we will do this morning.

Just as the wealthy would have travelled between Venice and their villas on the Burchiello, we board a contemporary version of this vessel, equipped with comfortable seats and a deck offering panoramic views. Our mini-cruise takes us past the 18th-century Villa Widmann where composer Stravinsky once stayed, as well as various villages, swing bridges and several locks. We disembark in Dolo, where our coach awaits. During our journey, we see the grandiose Villa Pisani, the Doge’s palace fronted by mighty sculptures.

Soon we arrive in Padova, a dynamic city which deserves to be recognised for more than its remarkable university, founded in 1222 and Italy’s second oldest. Explore the fine piazzas of the historic centre and be amazed by the diverse architectural styles: the Baptistry of the Duomo contains one of the country’s most complete medieval fresco cycles; the Renaissance Loggia della Gran Guardia once housed the Council of Nobles; and bustling Caffè Pedrocchi, ever-popular with students and intellectuals, was built to resemble a Classical temple. Particularly outstanding is the exotic Basilica di Sant’Antonio, one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Italy. Beneath its distinctive Byzantine domes rests the tomb of Padova’s patron saint. Another unmissable jewel is the extraordinary Cappella degli Scrovegni. The chapel’s interiors are entirely covered with Giotto’s lyrical frescoes, which greatly influenced the development of European art.

DAY 3 – VICENZA Today we head southwest to Vicenza, situated at the northern base of the cypress-clad Monte Berico astride the Bacchiglione river. This spectacularly sophisticated city is wonderfully cosmopolitan yet doubles as an open-air museum dedicated to the legacy of Palladio, a miller’s son who became the most prominent architect of the Italian High Renaissance and gave rise to the Classical style of Palladianism. The local gentry, eager to decorate their city with grand new buildings, gave him plenty of opportunities to realise his vision; as a result, many of central Vicenza’s streets are graced by a Palladian mansion.

We’ll see many of these on our guided tour this morning through the historic centre. At the heart of Vicenza is the Piazza dei Signori, dominated by the Basilica with its marvellous clock tower and distinctive, green roof surrounded by statues of Greek and Roman gods. Not a church but a remodelling of a Gothic courthouse, the basilica’s most notable feature is the loggia, one of the earliest examples of the Palladian window. Nearby is the renowned Teatro Olimpico, Europe’s oldest surviving indoor theatre, seemingly constructed from marble but upon closer inspection, you’ll discover masterfully painted wood and plaster. Its atmospheric auditorium is simply stunning, intended to resemble the outdoor theatres of ancient Greece and Rome. This astounding landmark, together with the Palladian Villas of the Veneto in the surrounding area, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is time to explore these wonderful sights this afternoon should you wish. You will receive a complimentary museum card, granting free entry to the city’s various worldclass attractions.

DAY 4 – MANTOVA & PARCO SIGURTÀ Our journey today takes us west and back in time to the sleepy yet achingly beautiful Mantova, a

42

Visit the prestigious Prosecco-producing area of Valdobbiadene

Basilica di Sant’Antonio, Padova

medieval city often overlooked despite its proximity to Lake Garda. Perhaps the answer lies in the three surrounding lakes, forming a natural fortification and keeping Mantova a secret from the world, one which has remained virtually untouched for centuries. As the dramatic skyline of ancient towers, domes and cupolas comes into view, it’s easy to see why the city features in two well-loved tragedies: it is the setting for Verdi’s Rigoletto and Shakespeare had an impassioned Romeo exiled here.

During our guided tour of the old town, the reasons

for its UNESCO World Heritage status become strikingly evident. Although compact in size, Mantova has more than its share of artistic, cultural and architectural treasures. The city reached its zenith in the 14th century when it came under Gonzaga rule, one of the greatest Renaissance families of Italy. Their home was the sumptuous Palazzo Ducale, a highlight of the city and once Europe’s largest palace with around 500 rooms, extravagantly decorated with glorious works of art. Wander the cobbled streets and relax in the lovely squares, where locals and visitors

alike meet for a coffee. This afternoon, we visit the 148-acre Sigurtà Garden Park and see some of the world’s most extraordinary gardens. Originally used for agriculture, the park is now home to beautiful tulips, roses, lilies, irises and more. See the Italian interpretation of a romantic English garden with its neo-Gothic temple and rustic grotto. Throughout the park are 18 ornamental ponds and lakes, as well as a medicinal herb garden and even an awardwinning maze.

DAY 5 – BASSANO DEL GRAPPA & VILLA SANDI After breakfast, we visit the enchanting town of Bassano del Grappa, nestled serenely in the foothills of Monte Grappa from which the river Brenta flows free. Connecting the halves of the town is the wooden Ponte degli Alpini bridge, cleverly designed to withstand the meltwaters in spring. Have your camera at the ready to capture the picture-postcard panoramas: the crystal-clear waters reflect the Alpine mountains and pastel hues of the historic buildings. Wander the lively town at an unhurried pace and observe the locals doing their shopping or even attempting to catch some fish along the river!

Bassano is known for its superb glazed earthenware, but perhaps more so for the Italian after-dinner drink, grappa, which you’ll have the opportunity to taste on our guided visit to a local artisan distillery. Here, you’ll experience this fragrant, grape-based brandy with all five of your senses: listen to the story of how it’s made, observe the fascinating distillation process, feel the fresh pomace with your own hands, and even smell the

different varieties. Of course, you’ll also taste a few varieties of this warming digestif.

You may wish to have lunch at one of the town’s many excellent restaurants or sample the local specialities before we continue to Valdobbiadene, one of the most prestigious Prosecco-producing areas in the heart of the Treviso region. Here, we visit the prestigious wine producer, Villa Sandi, set in a vast valley protected from nearby mountains by rolling, sun-kissed hills. This fortunate position and the naturally endowed soil provide the optimum conditions for cultivating some of the finest grapes.

Snaking below the palatial 17th-century villa is a centuries-old network of tunnels, used covertly by the Italian army during World War I and today provides the perfect environment for aging wine.

We tour these underground cellars, home to a million bottles of wine including some of the best Prosecco, which we sample afterwards. Our guide then takes us through the villa, its spacious rooms a luxurious combination of pastel colours, stuccoes and bas-reliefs, dominated by resplendent Murano glass chandeliers. It’s easy to imagine a time when important figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte once wined and dined here.

DAY 6 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Please note: The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to midSeptember), depending on the temperature.

Bassano del Grappa

43

S I C I LY 8 days from only €1,299pp

Discover the Mediterranean’s largest island – part of Italy, yet with its own distinct history, culture and cuisine – with snow-capped Mount Etna providing a backdrop to myriad UNESCO-listed sites, unspoilt countryside and stunning coastlines.

There are so many reasons why Sicily is an irresistible destination. First the truly breathtaking scenery of this large island off the ‘toe’ of Italy casts a spell that’s hard to break. Rugged, sometimes snow-capped mountains that reach for the sky are interspersed with meadows adorned with wildflowers. During spring and autumn these are bright green and lush, but during the sun-drenched summer they’re transformed into pastel shades of green, yellow and brown.

Citrus and olive groves stretch into the distance and abundant pine forests lend the air that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma. Punctuated by the occasional farmhouse and Tuscan-like hilltop village, the countryside is remarkably unspoiled. Sicily also has a spectacularly indented coastline, with sweeping bays and red volcanic rocks plunging into the deep-blue sea, and Mount Etna acts as a suitably dramatic backdrop.

Then there are the amazing treasures left behind by successions of invaders and conquerors. Over thousands of years Sicily has been touched by almost every Mediterranean civilisation. The Phoenicians settled in many areas, followed by the ancient Greeks who built some of their richest cities here. Then came

44

Monreale Cathedral

the Romans, Moors, Normans, Spanish, French and, finally, the Italians. You can see their individual influences everywhere on the island: temples, amphitheatres, churches, monasteries, villas and ancient towns. The agreeable climate has ensured that these landmarks have survived in a remarkable state of preservation.

In character Sicilians like to think they’re different from the rest of Italy, and the dialect spoken by some locals is a fusion of Italian, Arabic, Greek, French and Spanish. The food is wonderful and quite different from the typical cuisine you would find on mainland Italy. Many recipes evolved from peasant kitchens, so the dishes are more rustic and simpler, but today these are enjoyed as specialities served on special occasions. You’ll come across dishes with Greek, Spanish, Arab and French influences, such as couscous, pasta with sardines, and ‘arancini’ or stuffed rice balls, which reveal traces of cultures that have existed in Sicily.

Our tour starts in Agrigento. Founded by the Greeks, it’s famous for its historic Valley of the Temples – seven of them, some in phenomenal condition and all the more impressive when you

Gaze in awe at the impressive Greek theatre of Taormina

PRICE INCLUDES •

Marvel at astonishing Greek ruins in the Valley of the Temples on our guided tour of one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Admire Palermo’s gorgeous medieval and baroque centre, Italy’s finest outside of Rome • Explore the stylish hilltop town of Taormina and its stunning ancient Greek theatre •

Take a guided tour of the Roman villa in Piazza Armerina and see some of the best-preserved mosaics and frescoes from antiquity

• Experience the majesty of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe • View the astonishing gold and glass medieval mosaics in Monreale cathedral on a guided tour • Visit Siracusa, one of the Greek empire’s richest cities and home of Archimedes • Enjoy authentic Sicilian food at a rural agriturismo

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,299PP

consider they’re around 2,500 years old. Palermo is the vibrant capital of the island, enjoying a lovely setting with an air of both Europe and the Orient. The architecture ranges in style from Arabic to Norman, Baroque to Art Nouveau.

The pretty little town of Piazza Armerina possesses one of the true archaeological gems of the ancient world – the Villa Romana del Casale, dating from the era of Roman rule, stretches over a large area and is decorated with a huge expanse of mosaics. The highlights continue with Taormina, an exquisite town retaining its medieval charm, with its main street a collection of elegant houses, the oldest dating from the 15th century, plus intimate piazzas and twisting alleyways. The author DH Lawrence was aware of its charms and made his home there for several years.

Taormina’s greatest claim to fame, however, is its Greek theatre dating from the 3rd century BC, with its breathtaking views of the bay and Mount Etna. And, fittingly, Sicily’s iconic volcano is the destination on our final day – we ascend as close as possible to its summit for a truly unforgettable way to round off your tour of this unforgettable island.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN SICILY Arrive at the airport for your flight to Catania.

We transfer by coach to your hotel where we stay for three nights, with breakfast and dinner. Depending on your date of departure you’ll stay at one of two hotels.

With views over the surrounding countryside and sea, the four-star Hotel Kaos occupies a quiet location, approximately three miles from Agrigento.

Its public areas are decorated in modern Sicilian style and a pretty courtyard offers an inviting spot for a refreshing drink. The hotel has landscaped gardens, plus tennis courts and a large swimming pool. The comfortable rooms feature air conditioning, TV, safe, minibar and hairdryer.

The four-star Baia di Ulisse Resort & Spa is set within a pine forest running down to the hotel’s private beach in San Leone, just a few miles from Agrigento. This stylish hotel features fine furniture, paintings and ornaments, and there are several relaxing lounges with a choice of seating, from carved hardwood chairs to comfortable leather sofas, plus an outside terrace with views across the bay and an outdoor pool. The Mediterranean-style air-conditioned rooms all feature a garden or terrace view plus satellite TV, minibar and hairdryer.

DAY 2 – VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES This morning we visit the stunning Greek remains in the Valley of the Temples – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visible for miles around on a ridge overlooking the sea, they would have been intimidating sights for any passing mariner or local shepherd, leaving no doubt as to who was the master of the island. The best of them, Concordia, is similar in design to the Parthenon in Athens and almost as perfectly preserved, with only its roof missing. Its tapering columns and seductive light golden colour are utterly captivating. Other deities to whom these magnificent buildings were dedicated include Zeus, Demeter and Hercules. As you gaze in wonder at these architectural masterpieces, it’s incredible to think of the meticulous planning and the thousands of hours of backbreaking toil involved, all under the hot Sicilian sun. We enjoy a guided tour of the site and you may also visit the excellent museum to see finds from both the temples and surrounding area, including a unique collection of vases. Later we visit

Temple of Concordia

45

Palermo Cathedral

Agrigento itself, where the medieval atmosphere seeps into the tiny stepped streets and shady piazzas overlooking the blue Mediterranean in the distance.

We return to our hotel to spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing.

DAY 3 – PALERMO & MONREALE Our journey along the north coast of the island is an experience in itself as we pass rugged, wild landscapes that have changed little over the millennia. We visit Palermo, the capital city of Sicily. Under the rule of the Saracens and later the Normans, Palermo became one

of the most important cities in Europe, famous for the wealth of its court and as a great centre of learning.

Today it has more of a 17th-century appearance and during our visit we pass the Norman Palace, a gorgeous former royal residence that was once one of the most dazzling courts in Europe, and is now the seat of the regional government. We also see the magnificent domed cathedral, which dates from the 10th century and includes Byzantine, Moorish, Norman and Renaissance influences in its design.

This afternoon we travel to the hilltop town of Monreale for a guided tour of its splendid cathedral, founded around the end of the 12th century. One of the finest examples of Norman architecture anywhere in the world, even its intricately crafted exterior can’t prepare you for the brilliance of its interior, which is entirely covered with dazzling glass and gold mosaics depicting stories from the Old and New Testaments. The cloisters are another highlight, featuring elaborately carved columns, no two of which are alike, and almost Moorish in appearance. If you take the steps up to the roof you’ll be rewarded with a superb panorama of the surrounding countryside. Later we return to our hotel for dinner.

DAY 4 – PIAZZA ARMERINA A drive to the small town of Piazza Armerina brings us to an extraordinary archaeological site only discovered in the last century: the Villa Romana del Casale. Built during the 4th century, the villa may have been a residence belonging to one of the joint

46

emperors, which explains its size and richness of decoration. On our guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site you’ll see the remains of pastel-coloured frescoes on the walls, while the mosaics, alive with images of animals and hunting scenes, are among the finest from Roman antiquity. Complete with its spa, servants’ quarters and courtyard, this palatial building, which was buried for hundreds of years under a landslide that preserved its majesty, brilliantly illustrates the Roman elite’s high standard of living.

For lunch we will call at a rural ‘agriturismo’ restaurant. Located in the hilly Sicilian countryside, this is a traditional rural restaurant serving authentic Sicilian food, where most of the produce comes directly from the farm where the restaurant is based.

You will get to sample a selection of local dishes including antipasti and homemade pastas, before continuing to Taormina.

We continue to Taormina, one of the most captivating towns on the island. We’ve a choice of three hotels in different locations, depending on departure date, staying for four nights with breakfast and dinner.

Near Taormina is Giardini Naxos, a charming, typically Sicilian town. The seashore is lined by seafood restaurants, fishing boats drawn onto the beach and the family-run four-star Sant’Alphio Garden Hotel & Spa, situated just a few minutes’ walk from the sea. Its picturesque location, surrounded by palm trees and bougainvillea, offers views of nearby Taormina and Mount Etna. Facilities

include a restaurant, bar and outdoor pool with bar.

The hotel also has a private beach a short walk away and a spa with indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna and gym.

Rooms are modern, air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, hairdryer, minibar and safe.

All have a terrace or balcony affording views over the surrounding area.

North of Taormina is the four-star Hotel Baia Taormina, set into the coastal cliff overlooking the spectacular Bay of Taormina. Its stone-faced walls, terracotta tiles and wide arches help to foster a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere. The hotel makes excellent use of the topography – built into the hillside is the swimming pool, a restaurant with a stylish and romantic ambience that specialises in local cuisine, a relaxing bar and lounge and a coffee shop. There may also be the opportunity to take dinner on the terrace during your stay. Mediterranean in style, the rooms feature satellite TV, Wi-Fi, minibar, hairdryer and safe and all face the sea. Should you wish to visit Taormina there’s a complimentary shuttle bus, which will also take you to the beach.

The four-star Excelsior Palace Hotel is in Taomina itself, situated on a promontory with panoramic views of the sea to one side and Mount Etna on the other. Set in landscape gardens, it’s over 100 years old and has welcomed guests as varied as the King of Italy and Antonio Banderas! There’s a restaurant, bar and terrace enjoy amazing views of the island’s famous volcano. The large swimming pool, set in the terraced gardens, has its own bar. All rooms are tastefully decorated and air-conditioned, with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, hairdryer, minibar and safe.

DAY 5 – FREE DAY This morning is free to spend as you please in Taormina, one of the smartest and most exclusive small towns in Italy. Situated on a rocky headland over 800 feet above the sweeping coastline, it’s renowned for its medieval charm and stunning gardens. Today the main street is lined with designer boutiques and exclusive jewellers, with tiny side streets, some of which are so narrow you can touch both sides at once, leading to intimate piazzas lined Syracuse

Taormina

with family-run restaurants. Flowers and window boxes add extra splashes of colour, while speciality food shops sell fresh pasta, olives and the local Marsala wine. Stylish locals stopping to exchange a few words in the streets complete the typically Sicilian picture.

Taormina’s greatest claim to fame, though, is its ancient Greek theatre, possibly the most spectacularly situated anywhere in the world, with the horse-shoe-shaped rows of seats overlooking the sea and Mount Etna in the distance. Due to its unrivalled location and astonishing state of preservation, the theatre is still used today for film festivals and other cultural events.

This afternoon you’re free to explore further in Taormina at your leisure or you could choose to return to the hotel to enjoy some relaxation.

DAY 6 – SIRACUSA Our destination today is Siracusa, an immensely powerful and influential city in ancient times.

Its most famous resident was Archimedes, who according to legend discovered the principle of displacement while in the bath and ran naked through the streets exclaiming ‘Eureka’, or ‘I’ve found it!’. Today Siracusa is a fascinating collection of architectural styles ranging from classical ruins to Byzantine churches, Baroque palaces and other civic buildings, dating mainly from the 17th and 18th centuries. The old port area is traditional and extremely attractive, full of small fishing boats unloading their catch. Siracusa’s historic core is called Ortygia and is located on an island connected to the mainland by three bridges. You’re free to explore here and to discover its many treasures, including the extraordinary Baroque cathedral that cleverly incorporates the remains of a temple to Apollo, while opposite is the Bosco Palace, another opulent expression of Baroque style. Before returning to the hotel, there’s also the opportunity to take a boat trip around the bay.

DAY 7 – MOUNT ETNA Dominating eastern Sicily is Europe’s highest active volcano, Mount Etna. This morning we take the drive to as near to the snow-capped summit as possible. As we ascend the winding road the landscape becomes increasingly eerie and alien, with razor-sharp black rocks in contorted formations and some areas almost devoid of vegetation. Nearing the cable car station, our vantage point becomes even better and the view stretches out over the whole area. Subject to certain regulations, there’s the opportunity to take the cable car, jeep and guide to explore even higher levels. We return to our hotel during the afternoon.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Please note: The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.

Where hotels feature an outdoor swimming pool, this will be open during the summer months (weather permitting).

47

NEW

S PA I N ’ S B A S Q U E C O U N T RY, L A R I OJ A & B U RG O S 8 days from only €1,209pp

Experience fascinating Basque culture, captivating towns and cities along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, spectacular scenery, Rioja wines, an inspired gastronomic heritage, and one of the world’s most avant-garde museums.

Euskal Herria – better known to us as the Basque Country – is wonderfully varied and blessed with its own distinctive identity. Spanning northern Spain and southwestern France, it is a region of immense beauty and diversity, crowned by the dramatic peaks of the Pyrenees mountains which seem to pierce the sky.

Hills lushly carpeted with broadleaf forests rise and fall into fertile lowlands, dotted by classic red-andwhite farmhouses, before reaching the vivid blue waters of the wild Atlantic. Along the rugged coast are sweeping natural harbours with beaches of fine sand, home to charming fishing villages.

The Basque people are thought to be descendants of the very first settlers in Europe, early farmers who mixed with hunters before becoming isolated in the mountain valleys. Euskara, their unique language, is unrelated to any other and was already spoken here when Indo-European languages began to arrive. With its own defining characteristics and traditions, and a distinct architectural style, the Basque culture is

48

utterly fascinating. Some local families still live in ‘baserri’, stone farmhouses with gently sloping roofs built by their ancestors. Today, the southern Basque Country is an autonomous region in Spain, while the ‘Pays Basque’ answers to France’s central government.

Both land and sea have blessed the region with bounty that inspires gastronomic genius, fuelled by delightful innovation and a deep pride in tradition.

There is an undeniable passion for food, be it in the markets stocked with smoked cheeses and fresh fish, or the private dining clubs where friends impress each other with home-cooked meals. The Basques even have their own version of tapas, known as ‘pintxos’, which you can experience for yourself when we visit a traditional, family-run bar.

Our tour begins in San Sebastián, a coastal beauty and where you’ll find some of Spain’s finest food.

We spend a day in Bayonne, one of the prettiest cities in the French Basque Country, to observe the fascinating cultural differences across the border,

Santillana del Mar

Enjoy San Sebastiàn’s many cultural gems

PRICE INCLUDES

• Enjoy a guided tour of beautiful Bayonne, capital of the French Basque Country and a former English stronghold • Ascend to the peak of La Rhune mountain by vintage cog railway for superb panoramas of the Pyrenees • Take a guided walking tour of Burgos and explore its outstanding Gothic cathedral (audio guide included) • Tour one of Rioja’s most revered vineyards and enjoy a tasting • Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao • Enjoy a guided tour of Pamplona, capital of the Basque-based Kingdom of Navarra • Explore Santillana del Mar, a picture postcard medieval town • Discover San Sebastián, an alluring coastal beauty • Sample delicious pintxos at a traditional bar in San Sebastián, perhaps Spain’s gastronomic capital •

Marvel at the superb prehistoric cave paintings of UNESCO-listed Altamira at a remarkably reproduced replica cave museum

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and one dinner in a local restaurant

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager

and ascend the sacred Basque mountain of La Rhune for unforgettable views. Back in Spain we discover mighty Pamplona, capital of the once-powerful Kingdom of Navarra, and Burgos, crowned by its magnificent Gothic cathedral. We drive through La Rioja, Spain’s most famous wine-producing region – and of course, we stop at a renowned bodega for a tasting. Our journey continues off the beaten path to Santillana del Mar, a charming medieval town seemingly unchanged for centuries, and to Altamira, renowned for its prehistoric cave paintings. In bustling contrast is modern Bilbao, where we stay and visit the outstanding Guggenheim Museum.

FROM €1,209PP

to the cathedral and a 25-minute walk to the old town. It features a restaurant that serves Basque and international dishes, and a bar offering modern fare.

DAY 2 – SAN SEBASTIÁN Gloriously sited on a shell-shaped stretch of the Bay of Biscay and framed by fine white-sand beaches, San Sebastián is one of the most enchanting coastal resorts in Spain. Manicured parks and belle-époque buildings are elegant reminders that this was once the preferred holiday destination of the Spanish aristocracy. Since 1953 the city has played host to an annual film festival, which attracted legends including Alfred Hitchcock. San Sebastián is flanked by two hills – Monte Igueldo in the west and Monte Urgull in the east – and this morning we explore the bay from one summit to the other. Admire the grand buildings including the Miramar Palace which was designed by a British architect, and the luxurious Hotel María Cristina. As we walk through the old town we’ll see its highlights, such as Constitución Square, which was once a bullring where spectators reserved seats on the numbered balconies and placed their bets.

The tour concludes at a traditional family-run bar, giving you the opportunity to sample pintxos. Not to be confused with tapas, they tend to be more elaborate, particularly in San Sebastián, where their creation has become an art form. So popular are they that ‘txikiteo’ has become a local pastime – going from bar to bar in the evenings enjoying pintxos and drinks before settling down to a main meal.

The rest of the day is free. Perhaps visit the San Telmo Museum dedicated to Basque history, or ascend Monte Urgull to see the remains of the old city walls. San Sebastián was named a European Capital of Culture in 2016 and boasts a staggering total of 17 Michelin stars, so there’s plenty to see, do and taste.

DAY 3 – BAYONNE & LA RHUNE RAILWAY This morning we cross the French border to Bayonne to experience Basque culture in the north. Situated where the River Nive meets the Adour, Bayonne was once a fortified Roman town. Following Eleanor of Aquitaine’s marriage to Henry II of England in 1152, the city prospered in the Middle Ages under English kings, represented as lions in the city’s coat of arms.

During our guided walking tour, we’ll see colourful half-timbered buildings, the remains of 17th-century ramparts and the stunning Gothic cathedral, seat of the former Bishops of Bayonne. Although the city bears a French appearance, Basque is widely spoken here. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Bayonne’s fine chocolates and cured ham for which the city is known; there are even annual festivals celebrating the centuries-old traditions of chocolate and ham production.

Bayonne

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN BILBAO Arrive at the airport for your flight to Bilbao or Santander. On arrival, we transfer by coach to San Sebastián, where we stay for three nights at the four-star Silken Amara Plaza. Located along the River Urumea, the hotel is a pleasant 10-minute walk

49

Burgos Cathedral

We then journey inland to La Rhune, an imposing mountain sacred in Basque mythology at the western end of the Pyrenees. The La Rhune cog railway takes us past typical Basque villages with red-shuttered houses and rolling countryside, home to Pottok ponies, Manex sheep and birds of prey. From the summit that towers on the border between France and Spain, we are treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Pyrenees and the Bay of Biscay. After a wonderful day of sightseeing, we return to the hotel.

DAY 4 – PAMPLONA & RIOJA WINERY Today we travel to the wooded foothills of the

mighty Pyrenees, passing beautiful landscapes of rolling countryside and rocky gorges. We arrive in Pamplona, capital of the fiercely independent Kingdom of Navarra and a popular stop on the Way of St James, one of the most important Christian pilgrimages in the Middle Ages. Little was known about this historic gem until its annual San Fermin festival was brought to the world’s attention in Ernest Hemingway’s novel, ‘The Sun Also Rises’. The weeklong celebration honours the martyr, San Fermin, and features colourful parades of ‘giants and big heads’.

Each morning the running of the bulls takes place – a tradition that is said to have begun with butchers La Rioja

shepherding their bulls to the bullring, their apprentices running ahead to entice the animals forward.

During our guided tour we’ll see Pamplona’s cathedral and pass shops selling elaborate papiermâché heads for the festival. One of the country’s bestpreserved military structures can be found here in the 16th-century citadel, built in a pentagon shape with imposing bastions at each point.

This afternoon we follow the pilgrimage route through La Rioja, Spain’s legendary wine region centred on the Ebro River Valley. Rows of olive trees and vines colour the undulating landscape with stripes of green and ochre, while medieval fortified villages crown hilltops overlooked by the jagged Cantabrian mountains. We have a guided tour of one of the region’s oldest wineries, Bodegas Bilbaínas, to learn how their grapes are crafted into the noble drink.

Established by ‘viticulteurs’ from Bordeaux in the 19th century, Bilbaínas acquired a reputation for excellence, enhanced in the 1920s when it supplied wine to the Spanish royal family. Naturally, our tour ends with a tasting.

Later we continue to Burgos and its eponymous capital, where we stay two nights at the fourstar Abba Burgos Hotel. Located just 350 yards from Burgos Cathedral, the hotel offers guests complimentary use of its heated indoor pool, sauna, gym and tennis court. The hotel has a café-bar and a restaurant, which serves fresh seasonal dishes, and features a garden terrace with lovely views over Burgos.

DAY 5 – BURGOS The 9th-century city of Burgos played a significant military and political role in Spanish history. Founded as a fortress to defend the Kingdom of Navarra from the Moors, it became the capital of Castile and Léon for five centuries. Like many Castilian towns, Burgos prospered from the wool trade and its wealth funded

50

the outstanding architecture that can be seen today.

During our guided tour this morning, we learn about the city’s volatile history and explore the old quarter’s maze of twisting streets, dominated by the 13thcentury cathedral, one of Spain’s glittering jewels of religious architecture. Our tour of the cathedral includes an audio guide, so you can admire this Gothic masterpiece and its numerous treasures at your own pace. Observe the majestic façade, the intricate Chapel of the Constable and the splendid tomb of Burgos’ most intriguing son, El Cid. You are free this afternoon to seek out more of the city’s highlights. As a prominent stop on the pilgrimage route, Burgos has many more churches to discover, such as the remarkable Church of St Nicholas. A stroll across the river takes you to the spectacular Monasterio de las Huelgas, a Cistercian monastery founded and lavishly endowed by royalty.

This evening we dine at an excellent restaurant specialising in Castilian dishes.

DAY 6 – BILBAO Today we journey to Bilbao, the largest city of the Basque Country and one of its great treasures.

Surrounded by green hills of Artxanda, Bilbao has a very attractive and lively medieval centre with pretty parks and attractive architecture. It shot to

for a two-night stay (depending on the date of your tour departure). The centrally located four-star Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao is a short walk from shops and restaurants. It occupies the city’s former opera house, which boasts an elegant façade and contemporary décor. The hotel has a café, bar and gym. The four-star Hesperia Bilbao is situated across the river from the Guggenheim in a striking building with a colourful glass façade.

Pinxtos

worldwide renown in 1997 with the opening of the European branch of the Guggenheim Museum on the banks of the River Nervíon. Architect Frank Gehry drew inspiration from Bilbao’s maritime heritage to create the titanium-clad masterpiece of modernist architecture. We enjoy a visit to the Guggenheim to see an array of works by modern Spanish and international artists.

After some free time to admire the museum’s collection, we transfer to one of two hotels in Bilbao

Altamira

DAY 7 – SANTILLANA DEL MAR & ALTAMIRA CAVE MUSEUM We drive through the stunning Cantabria region, dominated by lush forests and the dizzying peaks of the magnificent Picos de Europa mountains in the distance. Set inland is the medieval town of Santillana del Mar, one of the most picturesque in Spain and a joy to explore. Nicknamed ‘the village of three lies’, it does not have its own saint (‘santa’) and it is neither positioned on a flat plain (‘llana’) nor situated by the sea (‘del mar’). Wander its well-preserved cobbled streets and admire the charming ensemble of 15thto 17th-century golden houses. At the heart of the town is its Romanesque Collegiate Church, which has its origins in a 9th-century monastery. Why not refresh yourself with a drink at one of the many cafés or visit one of its interesting museums. Discover the fate of ‘heretics’ during the Spanish Inquisition at the fascinating museum of torture – not one for the faint-hearted!

Our journey of discovery continues in Altamira, one of the most important prehistoric caves in Europe as it contains some of the world’s finest examples of Ice Age art – bison, deer and ibex have been masterfully rendered in charcoal and red ochre. The painter Picasso was said to have been so enamoured after a visit that he declared, ‘after Altamira, everything is decadence’. We visit the cave museum nearby to see its remarkably accurate facsimile, built to protect the original paintings – it’s every bit as astonishing as the original and enables us to have a detailed look at the fascinating facets of this complex masterpiece. Later we return to our hotel in Bilbao. Please note: For some departures it may not be possible to visit the Altamira Cave Museum, and an alternative itinerary will be offered.

DAY 8 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

51

C L A S S I C A L S PA I N S E VI LLE , CÓ RDO BA & G R ANADA 7 days from only €859pp

Experience Andalucía’s magical fusion of Spanish and Moorish cultures as you discover Seville’s vibrant streets and conquistador heritage, Granada’s wondrous Alhambra and the dazzling Mezquita mosque in Córdoba – and much more.

52

Andalucía is simply one of the most beautiful corners of Europe yet for many it remains relatively undiscovered. It’s a land where the excesses of the modern era seem not to have taken root and where travellers are genuinely welcomed.

Immortalised by the writings of Ernest Hemingway and beloved by Orson Welles, Spain’s southernmost region is a tapestry of rugged, fragrant and sun-kissed countryside, covered by green olive groves stretching into the distance under a perpetually azure blue sky.

With biscuit-coloured plains, untamed rivers, deep gorges and the spectacular snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains providing the backdrop, there are few places on earth boasting such a wealth of natural wonders in such a small area.

Tiny whitewashed villages perch on the hilltops, with narrow winding streets where every house has window boxes crammed with colourful flowers, adding touches of vitality to these sleepy hamlets little changed since the days of Christopher Columbus.

Andalucía has a long and violent past stretching from the dawn of civilisation. The Phoenicians and

ancient Greeks traded, whereas Julius Caesar fought here, as did Hannibal. The region is crammed with legacies of different cultures from throughout the centuries, especially the Moors whose architecture adds such magical appeal. Without doubt, the jewels in Andalucía’s crown are the cities of Seville, Córdoba and Granada, which have some of the most important monuments anywhere in the world, many of which are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are protected accordingly. Seville, home of Carmen and Figaro, boasts the world’s largest Gothic cathedral.

It was from here that first Columbus and then the conquistadors set sail to explore and plunder the New World, and from the 16th century unimaginable wealth poured in, building the city we see today. Córdoba has a bridge with 16 arches spanning the river, built by the Romans and amazingly still in use, and the Mezquita, built by the Moors and so architecturally dazzling and thought provoking it is beyond words. Granada has the magnificent Alhambra, the fortress-palace of Moorish rulers, dramatically situated, richly decorated and putting to shame almost anything we can conceive today.

Visit the stunning Alhambra Palace

PRICE INCLUDES •

Experience the iconic cathedral, vibrant streets and tranquil parks of beautiful Seville on a tour led by a local guide

•

Enjoy the authentic tastes and traditions of tapas on an evening introduction to these delicious Spanish appetisers in Seville

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Authentic flamenco show in Seville Witness a spectacular flamenco performance filled with passion and energy in a charming theatre. Enjoy a complimentary drink while you admire the superb artistry of world-class dancers, singers and musicians, who bring to life classics like ‘Carmen’. From €33pp.

• Explore the mountain-fringed city of Granada and visit the outstanding Alhambra Palace • Visit historic Córdoba and take a guided tour of the Mezquita, probably the world’s most beautiful mosque • Marvel at the natural drama of Ronda, a city spectacularly situated across a plunging gorge

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Six nights’ accommodation in three star superior and four-star hotels, inclusive of local taxes, with breakfast • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager

FROM €859PP Nowadays, though, despite its culture and history or because of them, Andalucía is perhaps the most Spanish region in the country. Indeed, the popular image of ‘real Spain’ – of ruined castles, sherry, fiestas, flamenco and bullfights – has its roots here. The food is a delight, with the area noted for its seafood and its famous drink, the fortified wine from Jerez we call sherry. Try a glass of fino, a very dry yet refreshing sherry, while nibbling tapas, that great Spanish invention.

The people are charming – always ready to help, with a friendly attitude towards their fellow man and a love of life so typical of Mediterranean people.

So, for an inspirational blend of timeless countryside, iconic monuments, romantic and vivacious cities, fragrant flowers and orange blossom, wonderful art and superb cuisine, all set in a region that welcomes visitors as honoured guests, welcome to Andalucía.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN MALAGA Arrive at the airport for your flight to Malaga. On arrival, we transfer to the four-star Ilunion Hacienda del Sol. This hotel is situated in undulating countryside near the village of Mijas, has a swimming pool (open during summer months, weather permitting) and is set in its own grounds.

Ronda

DAY 2 – RONDA After breakfast we take a drive into the hills forming the beautiful backdrop to the coast and then arrive in Ronda, a city widely acknowledged as one of the most spectacular in Spain and which enjoys a setting so naturally dramatic it could be in a fairy tale. Built on a ridge and split by a most impressive gorge plunging

down hundreds of feet, Ronda’s almost impregnable position meant it was one of the last bastions of Moorish power, only falling to the Christians in 1485. During the 18th century, the two halves of the town were joined by its iconic stone bridge, while another highlight is the palace that was once home to King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, paymasters of Columbus. With lots of good restaurants and tapas bars, Ronda is a splendid spot to spend a few hours exploring its classic Moorish maze of cobbled alleys, full of whitewashed houses with window grilles. Much of the city’s appeal lies in its spectacular views and clear mountain air – Andalucía at its simple best. We continue our drive into the countryside beyond, which is both very scenic and quite isolated, so much so it is not unusual to see eagles and vultures soaring above or ibex roaming the mountains.

We then arrive in Seville and our hotel, the threestar superior Don Paco, where we stay for the next three nights. It is very well situated on the edge of the Old Town in one of Seville’s many squares, is fully airconditioned and has a rooftop swimming pool (open during the summer months). Another treat awaits, as this evening we enjoy an introduction to delicious tapas. It is said that tapas dishes were originally slices of bread or meat used by sherry drinkers in Andalucían taverns to cover their glasses and keep fruit flies away.

The meat was often salty, encouraging thirst and alcohol sales. Restaurant owners began to create their own snacks to serve with sherry, and tapas eventually became as important as the drink! Over the centuries, with the introduction of olives, tomatoes, peppers and potatoes, tapas dishes gradually evolved into a most delightful tradition.

53

DAY 3 – SEVILLE Flamboyant, seductive, fascinating … Seville is all these and more. It is simply one of the most beautiful and charismatic cities in the world, with the serene River Guadalquivir flowing through its centre, a history spanning the centuries, a wealth of historic buildings, colourful back streets and peaceful parks.

It has its origins in Roman times – the Emperor Hadrian, builder of the famous wall, came from here.

During the 8th century the Moors arrived, stayed for five centuries and left a unique legacy still in evidence today. However, if one event changed Seville, it was the discovery of the New World and, fittingly, Columbus is buried in the imposing cathedral.

Immense wealth poured in from Spain’s new empire and catapulted Seville into one of the largest and richest cities in Europe.

Much of Seville was built during this time and it seems to have changed little in the last 500 years, with tiny twisting streets and hidden squares where the locals hide from the midday sun in high summer.

Today, though, it possesses a vibrant, cultural spirit that is very special.

The city of Figaro, this is the setting for another classic opera, Carmen. It’s also the home of flamenco, the origins of which are lost in the aeons of time. In short, this is the essence of Spain.

After breakfast we have a tour of this beguiling city, during which we’ll see the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and the awe-inspiring yet enchanting Alcázar, the fortified palace of the Moors with a richness of decoration which will astound you. You’ll also see the Tower of Gold, so named as it was used to store plunder from the Americas, and much more.

Stroll along the impressive Plaza de España in Seville

54

the smart pedestrianised Calle Sierpes, a street full of beautiful shops selling high-quality leather goods. The Maria Luisa Park is a beautiful display of colour where you can relax and indulge in a spot of people-watching.

The Mezquita

During the afternoon you’re free to explore Seville at your leisure and, if you wish, you could take a cruise on one of the many river boats.

DAY 4 – FREE DAY IN SEVILLE Today we have a free day. There are the ‘musts’ to revisit if you wish, such as the Alcázar, the fortified palace of the Moors with a richness of decoration which will astound you, and the cathedral, but also take time to wander around the Barrio Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter of the medieval city, and

DAY 5 – CÓRDOBA After breakfast we leave Seville and head east to another of Andalucía’s classic cities, arriving in Córdoba for our guided tour. Córdoba was the ancient capital of the Moors and is principally famous for a single building – the Mezquita – the grandest and most beautiful mosque ever constructed in the Moorish world. Dominating the centre of the Old Town, which was once the home of a thriving Jewish community, it is a building of extraordinary power and mystery with an arcaded hall supported by over 850 columns made of semi-precious stones. One can only wonder at the architectural brilliance of the builders all those hundreds of years ago, while northern Europe was still immersed in the depths of the Dark Ages.

Another highlight is the immense, well-preserved Roman bridge. Córdoba is a delightful place full of patios drenched in the colour of thousands of flowers – the Spanish seem to take so much pride decorating their homes.

We then continue our journey to arrive in the city of Granada, the last stronghold of the sultans during the Middle Ages and home to the Alhambra, the most spectacular gem of Moorish Andalucía. As we approach Granada, there can be no more proof of the diversity of this corner of southern Europe. We pass through some very arid countryside with a landscape of dried riverbeds, giving way to rolling olive groves.

Córdoba

In the distance is the spectacular Sierra Nevada, the highest mountain range in Spain. The landscape then becomes more fertile and picturesque, with ancient olive trees stretching off into the distance.

Our hotel for the next two nights is either the centrally located four-star Hotel Corona, in the heart of the city and within easy walking distance of the principal areas of interest, or the four-star Hotel Alixares, well located opposite the Alhambra.

Both are fully air-conditioned and ideal for a comfortable stay.

DAY 6 – GRANADA & THE ALHAMBRA Granada has a naturally dramatic location, nestling against the backdrop of permanently snow-capped mountains soaring majestically to a height of 11,000 feet. It is the perfect setting for the most perfect of architectural wonders, the Alhambra. So individual in its setting, so rich in its history and so exquisite in its design, this iconic building was the high point in Moorish culture. It is not just a palace, though. Some of it is a fortress, and much is given over to formal gardens full of roses and fountains, giving an incredible impression of peace and tranquillity.

Today we visit the Alhambra and you’ll also have time to explore the city as you wish. There is a myriad of twisting streets, the old Moorish quarter and the traditional gypsy area, all full of tiny unique shops, with seemingly every balcony sprouting flowers in a profusion of colour. There’s nothing better than taking a stroll through these streets, little changed in centuries, with pavements made of pebbles set in mortar and some so narrow that mules were the only form of transport. Granada also boasts some of the most distinctive old bars in Spain, many of

Granada

them decorated with antique tiles, where taking a drink and a few tapas can be an excuse for a unique, authentically Andalucían experience.

DAY 7 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to Malaga airport for your flight home.

Seville

55

M A D R I D, SALAMANCA & TO LE DO 7 days from only €959pp

Travel to the heart of Spain to discover the culture, history and cuisine of some of its most stunning cities, from beautiful Salamanca to Roman Segovia, and from medieval Toledo to the grand capital, Madrid 56

It seems incredible that despite Spain having so much to offer, so much of it remains undiscovered by overseas visitors. This tour is designed to highlight the best of central Spain, where historic cities, magnificent palaces and buildings, stunning countryside and rich culture will particularly appeal to the discerning traveller.

Spain is one of the most diverse countries in Europe, rich with legacies of the Romans, Moors and royal dynasties. In Segovia, an important city of the old Kingdom of Castile, you’ll find one of the most perfectly preserved Roman aqueducts in existence.

Toledo was the capital of Spain until the 16th century, and evidence of Christian, Jewish and Moorish cultures can be found across the city, while Salamanca – home to one of the world’s oldest universities – boasts a wealth of elegant old buildings and a highly ornate

style of architecture known as Plateresque. Madrid is a grand European capital of boulevards and squares where you can see world-class art at the Prado and Reina Sofía museums, the latter home to Picasso’s Guernica. The Plaza Mayor, the city’s resplendent colonnaded square, is a fine place to watch the world go by and – in true Spanish style – it really comes to life in the evening when the Madrileños go out to eat and musicians and other street performers provide the entertainment.

Central Spain features beautiful, sparsely populated terrain, varying from rugged hills crowned with sleepy villages to arid plains and lush valleys. Much of the country remains unchanged by the passing centuries; combine this with nearly 40 years of isolationism during the Franco era and you have a state of preservation that adds to Spain’s enduring charm.

PRICE INCLUDES • Take a walking tour of Salamanca, home to an ancient university, an exquisite square and two cathedrals • Enjoy a guided tour of medieval Toledo, city of El Greco and the majestic Alcázar • Experience Madrid on a tour seeing the Plaza Mayor, Prado Museum, Royal Palace and much more

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Market tour and cooking class in Madrid Explore the bustling local market and shop for fresh, organic ingredients to create a traditional Spanish feast. Learn to make the perfect paella, a selection of tapas and refreshing sangria – then enjoy your creations, finishing off with a delicious dessert. From €73pp.

• Visit Segovia and marvel at its UNESCO-listed Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale fortress • Marvel at the colossal royal monastery of El Escorial, the burial place of Spanish monarchs for 500 years

Plus, of course...

• Return travel with hotel transfers •

Six nights in three-star superior and four-star accommodation, inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and one dinner (four dinners for departures staying at the Novotel Puente de la Paz)

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €959PP

design are the remains of an 11-century church that originally stood on the site. It also has a restaurant serving regional dishes, or you may choose to have dinner in one of the many nearby restaurants.

DAY 2 – SALAMANCA Salamanca is acknowledged by many Spaniards to be among their country’s loveliest cities, and the entire Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It has an exquisite setting – perched on a hill on the banks of the serene Tormes River – and is mostly built

Madrid

See the fairy-tale Alcazar castle in Segovia

Spanish cuisine offers far more than just its famous paella – try the excellent Serrano hams, chorizo and roast suckling pig and lamb. The best places to experiment are tapas bars, where small plates of delicious local specialities can be washed down with a glass of sherry, Rioja or Cava. Exploring here is a treat for all the senses, and on this tour of Madrid and its surrounding cities you’ll get a fascinating insight into Spain at its most authentic.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN SALAMANCA Arrive at the airport for your flight to Madrid. On arrival we transfer by coach to Salamanca to stay for two nights at the three-star superior San Polo Hotel, with breakfast. Situated in the heart of the city close to the main square and cathedrals, this modern hotel is especially distinctive – incorporated into its

57

Puerta del Sol, the geographical centre of the city. Set in its own gardens, complete with swimming pool and terrace (which are both open subject to weather conditions), the hotel is also fully air-conditioned.

Salamanca

of local sandstone, giving the buildings a gorgeous rose-coloured hue, especially at sunset when they seem almost to glow. Yet Salamanca has a turbulent heritage. Founded by the Celts in the 4th century BC, then conquered by the Romans – who built the 575-foot-long bridge across the river that’s still used today – it was fought over by Hannibal, the Moors and, finally, by the British and French during the Peninsular War of the early 19th century.

Today the city is dominated by two magnificent cathedrals standing next to each other. The Romanesque Old Cathedral was completed in the 14th century, while the Gothic-Baroque New Cathedral is mainly 16th century. Another impressive building is Salamanca’s celebrated university – founded in 1218, it’s the oldest in Spain and has been one of the world’s most important seats of learning ever since. The Spanish Inquisition’s records are still kept here, and as early as the 16th century the university boasted some 12,000 students. Seeing its immaculately preserved lecture halls with their vaulted ceilings, it’s easy to conjure an image of Christopher Columbus addressing the learned men of the day or legal experts constructing the many international laws that originate here.

After breakfast you’ll see all this and more on our guided tour. The remainder of the day is free to explore as you wish. It’s well worth spending more time in Salamanca’s cathedrals. Externally they dominate the skyline, but their internal decoration

58

is just as breathtaking, with sumptuous murals and carvings; the 15th-century altarpiece of the Old Cathedral is particularly fine. Salamanca is a great place to wander: narrow old streets, medieval squares, gardens and traditional shops all add to the atmosphere. The main square, the Plaza Mayor, is considered by many to be the finest in the country.

With its colonnades lined with cafés, it’s the perfect location to soak up the lively ambience. For an unforgettable vista, cross the river and look back at the city across the Roman bridge.

DAY 3 – SEGOVIA After breakfast we say goodbye to Salamanca and take the short journey to Segovia. Dating back over 2,000 years, it features an old quarter with an enchanting skyline of towers and cupolas, plus one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world. At over half a mile long and close to 100 feet high, this UNESCO-listed wonder is all the more remarkable because neither mortar nor cement were used in its construction.

Segovia was the home of Isabella, Queen of Castile, who commissioned Christopher Columbus to discover the New World. They met in the fairy-tale Alcázar fortress, believed to be one of the inspirations for the Disney logo, that dominates the city from a rocky outcrop. As well as opulent rooms, an armoury and impressive courtyards, the castle also has striking turrets and fortifications offering panoramic views over the area. Like many of the country’s other ancient cities, Segovia is largely untouched by the excesses of modern tourism, and there’s nothing better than simply watching the locals going about their everyday business, shopping in the market, exchanging a few words with friends in the street or enjoying that most traditional of Spanish pastimes – sampling tapas in a local bar.

We then continue our journey to Madrid and our hotel for the next four nights, the four-star Catalonia Gran Vía, where we stay on a bed-andbreakfast basis with one evening meal included at a local restaurant. Built in 1917, the centrally located hotel occupies a charming building on a lively street renowned for its early 20th-century architecture and upscale shops. There is a restaurant, bar and seasonal rooftop pool. Some dates stay at the fourstar Novotel Puente de la Paz, with breakfast and four dinners, including an evening meal at a local restaurant. This hotel is well-located just outside the centre of Madrid, with easy local transport links to

DAY 4 – MADRID This morning we enjoy a tour of Madrid, seeing some of the landmarks for which Spain’s majestic capital is most famous: the Plaza Mayor, the vast central square; the Prado Museum, housing one of the world’s finest European art collections, including superb works by Goya, Velázquez and El Greco; the resplendent Royal Palace, used for state ceremonies; Plaza de España, home to a statue of the legendary Don Quixote and his creator, Miguel de Cervantes; and the Puerta del Sol, the city gate from which all distances in Spain are measured, plus much more.

During the afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Madrid offers myriad sightseeing opportunities.

Art-lovers are spoilt for choice – as well as the Prado, Madrid’s ‘avenue of art’ includes the Reina Sofía Museum, permanent home of Picasso’s Guernica, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, a private collection that includes examples from the entire history of Western art, from primitive Flemish paintings to 20th-century Pop Art. You might like to investigate the massive Moorish-style Las Ventas bullring, or perhaps you’d prefer to stroll along the avenues of the beautiful Retiro park and admire the rose garden or take a rowboat out on its lake. Madrid’s bustling squares and avenues thrum with countless restaurants and cafés. The shopping is exceptional, too – on the Gran Marvel at the ancient Roman aqueduct in Segovia

Vía, department stores and boutiques vie for space with office blocks, hotels, theatres, cinemas and restaurants housed in grand early 20th-century edifices, of which the Beaux-Arts Metropolis Building is particularly splendid.

DAY 5 – EL ESCORIAL & CHINCHON Today we head out of Madrid towards the Sierra de Guadarrama, a mountain range of oak forests, pine and juniper groves and granite escarpments.

Our destination is the monastery and former royal residence of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Once considered the eighth wonder of the world – and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – this vast complex was commissioned by King Philip II in 1563 and took 21 years to complete, with no expense spared.

Built in a quadrangle with each corner dominated by imposing towers and with a domed basilica at its heart, one theory is that the design is based on descriptions of the Temple of Solomon. The imposing formal facade couldn’t be more different from the interior, and gives no hint of the treasures within. The legacy of its royal patronage is found in the lavish frescoes, altarpieces and paintings by notable 16thand 17th-century artists throughout the monastery.

After exploring the complex, which includes royal burial pantheons, Philip II’s library and two museums, we return to Madrid.

In the evening we take the short drive to Chinchón, a typical provincial Spanish village famous for its pretty town square and locally produced aniseed liqueur. We arrive after siesta, when the town comes

to life, and spend some time soaking up its rustic ambience before visiting a restaurant, converted from an olive mill, for a dinner of delicious regional specialities.

DAY 6 – TOLEDO Today’s highlight is a guided tour of breathtaking Toledo, a golden-hued city rising from the plains and circled by a steep ravine filled by tumbling river waters. Spain’s enchanting former capital is rich in history, architecture and art, and we spend most of the day exploring its atmospheric monasteries, bridges and gates – no wonder this historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its long and often turbulent past has meant Toledo has been at the crossroads of several cultures, with Jewish, Christian and Moorish influences. In the 16th century Philip II moved the nation’s capital to nearby Madrid, leaving Toledo in the wonderful state of preservation we see today.

Nowadays it is best known for the Alcázar, a medieval former royal residence that dominates the skyline from the city’s highest hill; its striking Gothic cathedral which is richly adorned with treasures, and a wealth of other classic buildings. The artist El Greco lived here and you can visit a museum in the Jewish quarter where some of the painter’s works are displayed. We leave Toledo in the late afternoon and return to our hotel.

DAY 7 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

59

LI S BO N , PO RTO & T H E D O U R O VA L L E Y 8 days from only €1,119pp

Experience the best of Portugal, from the maritime heritage of Lisbon to the National Palace of Sintra and Coimbra’s ancient university. Plus Porto’s port lodges, the beautiful Douro Valley and the chic resort of Cascais.

60

Many visitors to Portugal head straight to the beaches of the Algarve, overlooking the many historical and cultural highlights of this fascinatingly varied country. For the discerning traveller, however, there is so much to discover, including vibrant cities, majestic palaces and cathedrals, the beautiful Douro Valley and delicious produce, most famously port dessert wine.

While Spain dominates the Iberian peninsula in terms of size, Portugal freed itself from Moorish rule and became an independent country long before its larger neighbour. It is also England’s oldest ally, with a treaty of friendship between the two countries dating back to the mid 14th century.

Portugal entered the most important period in its history – the Age of the Discoveries – in the early 15th century. A succession of maritime explorers, including Bartolomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama, discovered the sea route to India and created

PRICE INCLUDES

•

Explore Lisbon on a guided tour, taking in magnificent squares, the Baixa and Moorish quarters, and visit the unforgettable Monastery of Jerónimos

•

Visit the hillside town of Sintra and its National Palace, the former summer residence of the Portuguese monarchy, and now a fascinating museum with priceless collections

• Enjoy a guided tour of Porto, centre of the port wine trade, including a visit and tasting at Taylor’s port lodge • Discover the Douro, one of Europe’s most beautiful river valleys, on a full day tour • See the holy shrine of Fátima and visit Coimbra University, one of Europe’s oldest seats of learning • Experience the charm of 13th-century Óbidos with its cobbled streets and lofty medieval fortifications • Stay in the chic coastal resort of Cascais in a historic Pousada hotel

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in four-star to five-star accommodation including all local taxes, with breakfast and three dinners (one dinner for departures staying at the Royal Bridges)

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,119PP

The Portuguese themselves are a wonderfully well-mannered people who love to socialise, especially at the table and with family, and their natural pride, warmth and charm make them extremely welcoming to visitors to their lovely country.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN LISBON Arrive at the airport for your flight to Lisbon. On arrival we transfer by coach to stay three nights, with breakfast, at the four-star Tivoli Oriente Hotel. The rest of the day is spent at leisure, allowing you time to settle into the hotel and start exploring if you wish.

The hotel is located in the iconic Parque das Nações area, where there are many shops, restaurants and bars. The hotel has a restaurant serving international cuisine, an indoor swimming pool and a bar providing panoramic views over Lisbon. A complimentary coach service will take you to and from the centre of Lisbon on the evenings of days two and three should you wish to spend more time in the heart of the city, while public transport links nearby provide easy access at any time.

DAY 2 – LISBON TOUR After a leisurely breakfast we set out to discover Lisbon’s highlights, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. On our tour we’ll see the strikingly modern Monument to the Discoveries and its 16thcentury fortified counterpart, the Belém Tower, then visit the church of the Monastery of Jerónimos. One of the most magnificent buildings in Europe, the Monastery is a symbol of Portuguese wealth and power during the Age of Discoveries. Founded by Prince Henry the Navigator and containing the tomb of Vasco da Gama, it is an enormous, dazzlingly white edifice in classic Portuguese Gothic style, intricately decorated throughout with maritime motifs. We also see the impressive Terreiro do Paço square facing out to sea. There’s also Alfama, the Moorish quarter of timeless cobbled streets, and the wonderful garden at São Pedro de Alcântara with its expansive views across the rooftops.

Part of Lisbon’s appeal is its mix of old and modern, bustling and peaceful, and this afternoon is free to explore. You might be tempted by the chic shops of the elegant Baixa quarter, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755, or decide to seek out a café to enjoy a bica – an espresso – often taken with a pastel de nata, the city’s devilishly moreish custard Monument to the Discoveries, Lisbon

Wander the banks of the Douro

lucrative links with the Orient, returning with gold, silks, spices, high-quality furniture and exquisite porcelain.

When the Portuguese discovered gold in Brazil, vast wealth financed magnificent buildings throughout Portugal – many of which we visit on this thoughtprovoking tour. This ‘Golden Age’ lasted until the late 1600s, after which Portugal slipped into centuries of relative obscurity.

Today Portugal is a country of great contrasts; it’s modern in many ways yet still has one foot firmly set in its past. Full of history and appeal and spared from large-scale industrialisation, its well-preserved medieval towns with their tiny cobbled streets are delightful to explore.

Portugal’s landscapes are stunning. You’ll experience them in full – from coastal forests, wild seascapes, fertile fields and dramatic valleys to sweeping biscuitcoloured hillsides covered with olive trees, fragrant pine forests and lush meadows.

61

tart. Art-lovers can savour the Gulbenkian Museum, established by an Armenian oil magnate who bought art from Saint Petersburg’s Hermitage after the Russian Revolution for bargain prices. This world-class institution has exhibits ranging from ancient Egyptian treasures to Impressionist paintings to a superb collection of Lalique jewellery and glass. And don’t forget to take a ride on one of the clanging, rattling yellow trams; seemingly well past their sell-by date, they’re still the best way to negotiate the sharp bends of the old quarter.

DAY 3 – SINTRA We take a short drive to the hillside town of Sintra, whose verdant slopes were memorably described

by Byron as a ‘glorious Eden’. Spectacularly perched on a hillside with views towards the nearby Atlantic coast, this is where Henry the Navigator grew up and doubtless gazed out to sea, imagining what lay beyond the horizon. The narrow streets of the Old Town wind their way to the main square, where we visit the National Palace, the former residence of the Portuguese monarchy during the hot summer months.

Architecturally it’s a fantastic mix of Gothic and Moorish styles crowned by a pair of huge white conical chimneys. Today this landmark is a museum with grand rooms, many decorated with the glazed ceramic tiles known as azujelos, and a priceless art collection.

Returning to Lisbon late in the afternoon, there’s still free time for you to explore this lively city further.

There’s an amazing old quarter that still follows the original Phoenician street grid, so why not spend this evening wandering through its atmospheric lanes lined

62

with bars and restaurants, often decorated with the colourful ceramic tiles so typical of this city. Many places will be buzzing with the sound of fado – a unique and infectious musical mix evolved from folk, colonial African and Brazilian styles. Don’t leave Lisbon without experiencing this.

DAY 4 – COIMBRA UNIVERSITY This morning we drive through olive groves and wheat fields to Fátima, an unremarkable small town until 1917, when three children experienced an apparition of the Virgin Mary and it suddenly became an important Catholic pilgrimage site and a national shrine. The original chapel built to mark the site of the apparition is now part of a large and impressive Sanctuary complex, which is well worth exploring.

Continuing north, we reach Coimbra, renowned for the impressive Roman aqueduct striding across the city and the university, one of Europe’s oldest along with Salamanca, Bologna and Oxford. With its labyrinthine lanes, charming Moorish quarter and pretty squares, this is a fascinating place to explore.

Once a capital city, Coimbra became a major cultural centre during the Middle Ages with the university – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – at its heart. We have the privilege of a visit to the university, which is situated on a hill overlooking the city. Its Baroque library – rich in giltwork, exotic woods and with a dazzling frescoed ceiling – contains over 200,000 leather-bound, centuries-old volumes. Equally extraordinary is the exquisitely decorated chapel, while the university prison, dating back to the mid 16th century, is suitably austere.

We continue to Porto and stay three nights at the four-star superior Sheraton Hotel & Spa, the four-star superior Porto Palàcio or the four-star Royal Bridges Hotel. Stays at the Sheraton and Porto Palácio include breakfast and dinner, while stays at the Royal Bridges Hotel include breakfast and one dinner.

The Sheraton is set in its own landscaped gardens, the Porto Palácio features a rooftop lounge with panoramic views and the brand-new Royal Bridges Hotel is situated in downtown Porto. All hotels offer superbly appointed rooms and the facilities you would expect of a hotel of this standard.

DAY 5 – PORTO Set on the Douro estuary and once a Roman settlement, Porto’s wealth derived from its knowledge of the sea routes to India. Spices, silks and other fine goods made the fortunes used to build today’s city – Portugal’s second largest. Our guided tour of Porto unveils some of the city’s major and more surprising sights – you’ll experience the tangled lanes of the medieval quarter, the splendid Praça da Ribeira square with its characteristic tiled townhouses and picture-postcard views of the wine lodges across the river. Gustave Eiffel designed one of the bridges and you can immediately see the connection with his more famous Parisian creation. You’ll gaze up at the city’s imposing fortress, its Romanesque cathedral and Baroque Clérigos Tower. Porto also boasts many traditional shops, and it’s a joy to see what the many local traders have to offer, from fine art, antiques and ceramics to some of the tastiest cakes you’ll ever eat.

isolation in one of Europe’s most beautiful and unspoiled river valleys. A short drive upstream is the delightful small town of Pinhão, the heart of the port-producing region. Port truly dominates life here, with even the hand-painted glazed tiles at the railway station depicting scenes from the wine harvest.

During our time here we visit one of the local port estates – or quintas – to sample some of its wines.

The Douro Valley

Of course, Porto is synonymous with port wine. All the famous producers are here and a visit would not be complete without a tour of one of them, so we are guests of Taylor’s – perhaps the greatest of all them all. You’ll learn about this fortified wine’s fascinating history and its close British connections. Port is made from grapes from the terraced vineyards along the Marvel at the colourful Pena Palace in Sintra

Douro that are still pressed in the age-old way – by feet – then lovingly matured, sometimes for decades, before you can enjoy its subtle flavours. Of course, you’ll get the chance to sample various port styles at the end of our visit.

You’re free to spend the rest of the day investigating the city at your leisure.

DAY 6 – THE DOURO VALLEY Today we enjoy a leisurely exploration of the Douro River, known as the ‘River of Gold’. After leaving the Atlantic’s influence behind, the climate becomes noticeably warmer and drier, while the area has a Mediterranean appearance with earthy oranges replacing shades of greens. We follow a wonderfully scenic route, passing through pretty waterside villages and ascending the lofty valley sides for marvellous vistas of the shimmering ribbon of the river and its classic vine-clad terraces. At Peso da Régua there’s time to wander along the quayside and take in the views while the occasional river traffic glides past.

The overwhelming feeling here is one of perfect

DAY 7 – ÓBIDOS & CASCAIS Leaving Porto, we head south through rolling countryside and past countless olive groves to Óbidos, one of Portugal’s most picturesque towns, whose core of narrow streets and alleyways is entirely surrounded by medieval walls. With its whitewashed houses, abundant flowers and splashes of bright paint, this is a pleasurable place to wander and imagine yourself stepping back in time to the days of the Moors, who once ruled from the imposing castle. If you’re feeling energetic you can walk around the crenellated fortifications, which offer splendid views of the town and surrounding countryside. Óbidos is also the perfect place to enjoy Portugal’s favourite sour cherry liqueur – ginjinha – because here the locals serve it in a chocolate cup!

We continue to Cascais, a coastal town to the west of Lisbon on the mouth of the Tagus River, to stay for one night at the five-star Pousada, with breakfast.

This is one of Portugal’s classic hotels, converted from buildings set within the walls of a 16th-century citadel overlooking the marina. Parts of the hotel comprised a former barracks, and the furnishings and stonework of the Pousada combine historical legacy with modern comfort, art and stunning style. There is a restaurant, bar, spa, gym and pool, while the contemporary rooms are beautifully appointed.

Cascais itself is a charming place to wander. A small fishing village until the Portuguese royal family chose it as their preferred summer residence, it developed into a chic resort with grand 19th-century buildings, seafront promenades and fine parks. The attractive Old Town is centred round the harbour and boasts a wide range of restaurants and bars. Many specialise in local seafood and enjoy views out to the Atlantic, the mighty ocean that has shaped Portugal’s history.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Obidos

63

D U B ROV N I K , T H E D A L M AT I A N C O A S T & MONTENEGRO 8 days from only €1,199pp

George Bernard Shaw thought Dubrovnik ‘Paradise on Earth’. Witnessing the coast of Montenegro, Lord Byron was moved to call it ‘the most beautiful encounter between land and sea’. When you take this tour you’ll find that you can only agree with these literary giants, whether you are witnessing the majesty of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, crossing Mostar’s iconic Stari Most or gazing at the tumbling waterfalls in Krka National Park.

Croatia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, with a recent past unique in European history. Over the past two millennia, empires have left indelible marks – both architecturally and culturally – on the country: the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Habsburgs among others. This mélange of influences is reflected at every turn, in palaces and amphitheatres, imposing civic structures and religious buildings representing many faiths. From the late 1980s, Croatia experienced the fall of Communism, with war and then full independence to follow, but the resilience of both landscape and people is demonstrated by the way the country rebounded from these upheavals. With the scars healed, a blend of exotic history, Mediterranean ambience and natural beauty has placed the country once again on the map of any discerning traveller.

Dubrovnik, with its famous marble-paved, pedestrianised main street, is a treasure. It’s almost a living museum, with its medieval origins married to

64

Split

Baroque influences from later centuries. Lord Byron and George Bernard Shaw certainly knew beauty when they saw it, respectively describing the city in rhapsodic terms as ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ and ‘Paradise on Earth’. On your tour, you’ll find every reason to concur – it’s simply idyllic.

The Dalmatian coastline is as dramatic as any in Europe. For hundreds of miles, steep limestone cliffs plunge into sapphire-blue waters. Just offshore, the Adriatic is studded with countless islands. Some are tiny, some large; some inhabited, some not – but all are breathtakingly beautiful. The hillsides are green carpets of lush pine forests, lending the air that instantly recognisable Mediterranean fragrance.

Clinging to the coast or nestling in pretty coves are medieval villages, refreshingly free from insensitive development. Life continues much as it has for centuries. The people are effervescent, friendly and open, too.

Explore the streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town

PRICE INCLUDES •

Explore Dubrovnik, Byron’s ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, with its medieval and Baroque centre, on a tour led by an expert guide

• Marvel at the rushing waters of the Krka National Park’s dense and dramatic interlocking waterfalls •

Cross the iconic Stari Most bridge, now returned to its former glory in Mostar, once Europe’s border with the Ottoman Empire

•

Immerse yourself in the history of Emperor Diocletian’s monumental palace in Split, brought to life by the intimate knowledge of a local guide

• Discover the delights of medieval Trogir, one of Dalmatia’s most alluring old ports • Soak up the unspoilt splendour of Montenegro through sights in Kotor and Perast, including an amazing island church Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights’ four-star hotel accommodation including all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,199PP

of visits over the next few days. Swimming pools are open during summer, weather permitting.

Omis is a lovely little village, dominated by two medieval fortresses with remnants of the old city walls still intact. The Hotel Plaza is approximately a 10-minute stroll from the centre, shaded by aromatic pine forests and is set in a cove on a stretch of beautiful coastline with direct access to the beach.

It has a wellness centre, restaurant and bar with a delightful terrace overlooking the beach. The modern rooms are well appointed all with private facilities, air-conditioning, mini-bar, safe and hairdryer.

The Hotel Plaža Duće is located along the coast close to Omis. Every room is modern and spacious with mini-bar, air-conditioning, safe and offers a balcony with sea views. The hotel features a restaurant, both indoor and outdoor pools with a bar, fitness centre, spa and wellness centre, with access to the sandy beach.

North of Split, on the Sibenik Riviera in the resort of Vodice is the Hotel Olympia. This traditional coastal village is surrounded by the sea, islands and rivers. The hotel is situated a short walk from the harbour, and has indoor and outdoor bars, restaurant, wellness centre and outdoor pool. It offers access to a pebble beach. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature a balcony.

DAY 2 – KRKA VALLEY After breakfast we drive inland to the Krka Valley.

Viewing its majesty, you’ll instantly appreciate why it has been awarded national park status. The valley is home to an immensely impressive sequence of lakes, where water cascades dramatically from one to the next via vertiginous interlocking waterfalls.

Minerals dissolved in the water trigger stunning colour changes, from turquoise to azure-blue and from vibrant green to steely grey. With reflections of the majestic surrounding peaks and luxuriant forests rippling on lake surfaces, it’s impossible not to be awestruck. You’ll witness one of the most dramatic stretches of the river – several tiers of waterfalls tumbling magnificently into a broad, shallow pool.

There’s ample time to absorb the surroundings before we return to our hotel during the afternoon.

Krka National Park

All this, plus unspoilt Montenegro, one of the world’s newest countries, where visiting is like experiencing the Mediterranean of 30 years ago.

The glorious coastline features centuries-old fishing villages, full of tiny streets where the eaves almost touch, interspersed with squares where market stalls creak under the weight of ripe local produce and dotted with intricately decorated Byzantine churches.

Every location we visit on this tour is simply beautiful. These landscapes cry out to be explored, offering visitors a blend of compelling scenery and engrossing places on a journey back in time.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN CROATIA Arrive at the airport to take your flight to Dubrovnik.

On arrival, you will be taken to one of our carefully chosen four-star hotels for three nights with dinner, which will vary according to the date of departure.

All hotels provide a perfect base for our programme

65

DAY 3 – SPLIT & TROGIR We drive along stunning Dalmatian coastline on our way to Split. Croatia’s second-largest city is most famous for a single building, the colossal palace of Emperor Diocletian, which makes up much of the city’s Old Town. It’s one of the great structures of the Roman Empire and has survived in amazing condition since it was built at the turn of the 4th century. A guided walking tour this morning of the fascinating complex will bring its storied history to life.

Befitting the ruler’s exalted status, no expense was spared in its construction; marble came from Italy while columns and sphinxes were brought from Egypt. Part personal palace, part military garrison, it was more fully integrated into the fabric of the town during medieval times, when a jumble of buildings grew up around it. Some structures were repurposed – the temple dedicated to Jupiter, king of the Roman gods, became a baptistry. Tall medieval buildings line the streets, but they are buttressed by unmistakable Roman columns.

Juxtapositions of different cultures await you at every turn. Today 3,000 people still live within its walls.

In the afternoon, we visit the nearby medieval citadel of Trogir, one of the most beguiling little ports in Dalmatia. The Old Town is actually an island. A wealth of Renaissance and Romanesque buildings line a veritable maze of charmingly chaotic lanes. At the centre is the exquisite Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, whose long cycle of construction is reflected in its contrasting architectural features.

66

Wander where your feet take you, cast an eye over one of the many antique shops or just enjoy a coffee in a pavement café – the choice is yours, before returning to the hotel in time for dinner.

DAY 4 – MOSTAR As we head south, the dazzling coastline gradually gives way to the River Neretva Delta, a bird-lover’s paradise, before we arrive at the ancient town of Mostar, nestling in cliffs that overlook a river. It was once a provincial capital of the Ottoman Empire, was later annexed by the Austro-Hungarian Empire and is now part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Much of its renown rests with Stari Most, the bridge linking the two halves of the Old Town. Originally built in the 16th century, it was left in ruins in 1993 but rose again the following decade, painstakingly rebuilt to the original Balkan Islamic design as a symbol of reconciliation and as the visual focus of the city.

Mostar’s buildings reflect the city’s cosmopolitan evolution – centuries-old mosques mix with Turkish houses, while the fine 19th-century town hall could have been transplanted from Central Europe. Down cobbled streets that demand investigation, tiny workshops house skilled artisans making all manner of metal goods in a fashion unchanged for centuries, giving the sense of time having stood still.

Once you’ve experienced the marvels of the city, we continue to Dubrovnik, where we stay for four nights with breakfast and dinner.

Dubrovnik

Diocletian’s Palace, Split

facilities, air-conditioning, minibar, safe and hairdryer.

The hotel offers spacious indoor and outdoor pools as well as a wellness area.

The four-star Hotel Lero is close to Dubrovnik’s Old Town and a five-minute walk from the beach.

The hotel has two restaurants including one with a summer terrace, plus an outdoor pool (weather permitting), bar and fitness centre. Guests have access to a wellness centre and tennis courts at an additional charge.

Please note: Where hotels feature an outdoor swimming pool, this will be open summer months, weather permitting.

See the famed bridge of Mostar

Our four-star hotels provide an excellent relaxing base for the remainder of our tour.

The four-star Hotel Lacroma is a contemporary hotel situated on a rocky promontory into the Adriatic and is surrounded by pine forests. The hotel has two restaurants and a terrace bar with panoramic views of the Elaphiti Islands . All rooms have private

DAY 5 – DUBROVNIK Dubrovnik, an independent city-state for much of its history, has evolved differently to the rest of Croatia.

This morning, we take a tour with an expert local guide explaining the city’s landmarks and intriguing history. Dubrovnik threw off its Venetian masters in medieval times and founded a commercial empire, trading with the eastern Mediterranean, France, Spain and, later, the Ottoman Empire. The economic boom that resulted in the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ found beautiful expression in the likes of the Rector’s Palace, now a museum, and Sponza Palace, currently housing centuries of historical city documents.

The main avenue, lined by enticing shops and cafés, is completely paved with marble, which strikingly reflects the midday sun. Add in a wonderful array of monasteries and monumental ramparts and you’ll find this is a wonderful city, nestling in a location of outstanding natural beauty. In the afternoon, you’re free to explore before we return to the hotel for dinner.

DAY 6 – PERAST, KOTOR & MONTENEGRO A short drive south takes us over the border into one of Europe’s newest countries, Montenegro. Following the sapphire-blue coastline, the route offers seemingly limitless visual feasts. The Bay of Kotor is an expanse of inland sea, though you could be forgiven for believing it to be a lake, with topography reminiscent of Switzerland. Reflections of the surrounding mountains dance playfully on the water while the verdant shoreline is punctuated by sleepy fishing villages.

Our first stop is the small, scenic town of Perast.

It has a rare beauty of its own, but your eyes will undoubtedly be drawn to a jewel out on the waters – the Roman Catholic church of Our Lady of the Rocks, occupying a man-made island.

We continue to the medieval town of Kotor, with its history of trading and seafaring. Nestling under a mountainside, it’s in probably Montenegro’s most dramatic setting. Inside its ancient walled fortifications, a labyrinth of cobbled marble streets surrounding Saint Tryphon’s Cathedral radiate to intimate squares. The town’s bustling market is a sensory delight, with sights and smells from stalls offering cheese, cured hams, honey and vegetables of all colours. The local wine hasn’t had the international exposure it warrants, but it’s a treat for the taste buds. Afterwards we cross the sea at its narrowest point by ferry, returning to Dubrovnik at the end of the afternoon.

DAY 7 – FREE DAY IN DUBROVNIK You have the day to yourselves, so what’s it to be?

Watching the world go by as you enjoy a leisurely lunch in the main square? Relaxing on a cruise around the harbour? A stroll around the city walls that once protected the city’s inhabitants, but now offer unbeatable views? The options are many and the choice is yours.

Bay of Kotor

DAY 8 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

67

L A K E S & M O U N TA I N S O F AUSTRIA 8 days from only €1,199pp

An unforgettable experience in scenic Austria, taking in towering mountains, plunging waterfalls, mighty glaciers and the country’s Lake District, while also touring gorgeous alpine villages and the architectural gems of Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg.

With pristine alpine scenery, crisp, invigorating air, fragrant pine forests and mirror-like lakes, it’s small wonder that Austria became a must-see destination when people began travelling purely for pleasure a century and a half ago. Today, you can follow in their footsteps and journey with us to the heart of Europe, where natural and man-made wonders combine to create some of the world’s most sublime scenery.

This is a land of soaring mountains, tumbling waterfalls, mighty glaciers, fairy-tale castles and cities full of medieval history. As we ascend into the mountains, the views become increasingly impressive almost with every bend; scented meadows surround picture-postcard villages, with traditional wooden houses adorned with window boxes bursting with floral colour. Then there’s the singular beauty of the Salzkammergut, one of the most naturally spellbinding lake districts in the world, which resonates with the unmistakable tones of cowbells echoing over the water.

68

There is no shortage of inspiring vistas, but Austria offers much more. It has been home to some of history’s greatest composers: Haydn, Schubert, Strauss and, of course, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Nowhere typifies its distinguished cultural legacy more than Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. This exquisite city’s Old Town – the Altstadt – boasts an amazing assemblage of Late Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo architecture, with a genteel atmosphere enhanced by street musicians who keep the city’s musical heritage to the fore. The imposing medieval fortress of Hohensalzburg overlooks the city and completes the scene.

One of the delights of this beguiling country is indulging in its delicious tradition of coffee and cake – kaffee und kuchen – taken in one of the almost regal cafés dating from the late 18th century. Decorated in timeless ochres and browns, they’re unique places to enjoy decadent apple strudel and cherry cake, served on delicate china crockery and with fine silverware.

But there are many other pastry options, often

soaked in one of the liqueurs for which the area is also renowned. Treat your taste buds while watching the world go by, with sights including a few locals still traditionally clad in lederhosen as a symbol of regional pride. Well-mannered and friendly, Austrians are genuinely hospitable to visitors and delight in sharing their country’s heritage and scenery with newcomers.

This sort of bonhomie is known as Gemütlichkeit, a state of being of which they are justifiably proud.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN SALZBURG Arrive at the airport for the flight to Munich. We transfer by coach over the Austrian border to Salzburg, staying three nights, with dinner, at the four-star Hotel Stadtkrug, situated in the historic centre just below the monastery. Around 700 years old, it is one of Salzburg’s most ancient buildings and served as an inn during medieval times. Mozart lived just a few minutes’ walk away, and the hotel’s passionate and enthusiastic owner is absolutely certain the composer would have been a patron. Tall tale or true?

Explore the picturesque villages of the Austrian Lake District

PRICE INCLUDES

• Explore the fairy-tale architectural charm of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, on a guided tour •

Take in the sumptuous views offered by the Salzkammergut, Austria’s Lake District, and St Wolfgang, a pictureperfect lakeside village

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Classical concert in Salzburg Catch a classical performance by the renowned Salzburger Schlosskonzerte in the world-famous Mirabell Palace in Salzburg. You’ll feel like royalty soaking up the romantic ambience of a very special evening. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend this wonderful concert. From €44pp

• Tour the 17th-century Hellbrunn Palace, with its beautiful gardens and famous ‘trick fountains’ •

Witness the grace and power of the Krimml Waterfalls, Central Europe’s highest, against the natural grandeur of High Tauern National Park

• Gaze with awe at the Grossglockner, Austria’s tallest mountain, during a panoramic tour of the High Alpine Road

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,199PP

we have a relaxed tour, with our knowledgeable guide leading us through its maze of cobbled streets, pointing out all the hidden points of interest and describing what it was like to live here in Mozart’s day.

Above everything stands one of Europe’s largest stone fortresses, the Hohensalzburg, dating back to the 11th century. Perched high on a cliff top, it dominates the skyline. The Old Town below is a delight, boasting architecture dating from the medieval period to the 18th century. It’s perfect to explore on foot, its narrow passageways promising new discoveries around every corner. It has many intriguing shops, too, mixing designer boutiques with traditional outlets that have been in the same family for years, many selling locally produced wares. A must for horticultural fans,

That’s for you to decide, but what is beyond doubt is that the hotel, owned by the same family for three generations, offers a wonderful experience. The antiques adorning the interior give it a character and ambience all its own, while the restaurant specialises in excellently executed traditional menus, with most of the produce gathered from its own organic farm.

This even extends to making schnapps! The rooms sensitively blend all the modern amenities while preserving the hotel’s medieval charm. The roof terrace is a wonderful place to enjoy a relaxing drink as you absorb Salzburg’s glorious skyline.

DAY 2 – SALZBURG With a captivating ambience, characterised by its resplendent horse-drawn carriages, Salzburg is a gorgeous and compact jewel surrounded by a magnificent alpine backdrop. Until 200 years ago it was an independent state ruled by a series of archbishops, who turned it into one of the most sophisticated cities north of the Alps. After breakfast,

Salzburg

69

meanwhile, is the grandeur of the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, originally built as an expression of love by a prince-archbishop. It often serves as the impossibly romantic backdrop for wedding ceremonies, with the Pegasus Fountain and Rose Garden among its highlights.

You’re free to enjoy the afternoon as you wish, perhaps to follow your passion for Salzburg’s most famous son, Mozart. A musical prodigy, he first played in public at the age of five and composed his first opera while not yet a teenager. The home where he was born, at 9 Getreidegasse, has been restored, while his presence permeates the city, not least in Mozartplatz, with its statue of him. More claims to fame are made for the locations throughout the city and surrounding area that became globally famous after featuring in the Oscar-winning film The Sound of Music. Of course, there are plenty of fascinating museums, religious buildings and hidden gems that have nothing at all to do with either subject, including the imposing Early Baroque cathedral with its dome, two towers and marble frontage. Or perhaps you’ll prefer a stroll along the banks of River Salzach, maybe pausing at a café to listen to the gentle sound of its waters flowing by.

DAY 3 – SALZKAMMERGUT We leave the city for Salzkammergut, the Austrian Lake District, an area of magnificent natural beauty Zell am See

70

with over 70 lakes of varying sizes. A morning drive takes us to Mondsee, a charming town perched on the northern shore of the lake bearing its name. As well as being a popular weekend destination, Mondsee is renowned for the Basilica of Saint Michael, the lovely setting for Maria and Georg von Trapp’s wedding scene in The Sound of Music. Following a route alongside sparkling lake shores and through velvetgreen hill pastures, we arrive at the crystal-clear waters of Lake Traunsee and the picture-postcard setting of the village of Traunkirchen, which until the late 19th century was a fishing village that could be reached only by boat, but today is a centre for outdoor activities, from hiking to sailing.

Leaving lakes behind for a short while, we pass through the picturesque spa town of Bad Ischl, once a regular summer destination for Emperor Franz Joseph.

Mountains and forest stretch in all directions as we head for St Wolfgang, where there’s time for lunch amid true scenic splendour. With its maze of frescoed 15th-century buildings, St Wolfgang can lay claim to being among the prettiest villages in Europe. Your eye is immediately drawn to the white lakeside church, for centuries an important pilgrimage site. Inside the building, the altar merely adds to the visual riches.

Created in the late 15th century, it’s regarded as a high point of Gothic art. There’s time to relax in this idyllic spot this afternoon, or perhaps opt for a more elevated viewpoint via the steam-hauled rack railway

up the Schafberg mountain. With a summit reaching almost 6,000 feet, it offers spellbinding views across the entire Salzkammergut in all its unrivalled majesty.

We then return to the hotel for dinner, recalling the day in a convivial atmosphere.

DAY 4 – HELLBRUNN PALACE Leaving Salzburg, we take a short drive to enjoy the 17th-century majesty of Hellbrunn Palace, just outside Salzburg. Commissioned by an archbishop with a mischievous sense of humour and a favoured destination for emperors, it features rooms decorated in a variety of themes, such as a Chinese Room with hand-painted wallpaper; others were specially designed to create the ideal acoustics for performing musicians, including one that takes the shape of an octagon. The gardens are no less unique, and a local guide takes us on a tour of their famous Wasserspiele or ‘trick fountains’, which stop and start to catch visitors unaware. These ingenious and quirky features are complemented by shell-covered grottoes and water-powered clockwork figures.

After this remarkable tour, we ascend into the High Alps, where we stay four nights, with dinner, at the excellent four-star Hotel Das Alpenhaus. Located in the small alpine village of Kaprun, at the heart of the spectacular Zell am See region, this stylish modern hotel nestles at the foot of the Kitzsteinhorn and the dramatic Grossglockner mountain, at

12,461 feet Austria’s highest. It features an excellent restaurant, while the lobby bar offers a terrace and a panoramic view. There’s also a lounge bar, spa and wellness centre, with both indoor and outdoor swimming pools (outdoor pool open summer months, weather permitting). All the rooms are extremely comfortable and well appointed.

DAY 5 – KRIMML WATERFALLS We start our exploration of some of the world’s most outstanding alpine terrain, witnessing nature at its dynamic best. After breakfast, we follow a winding road through woodland and peaceful pastures into an ever-narrowing valley, revealing one of Europe’s great natural wonders: the Krimml Waterfalls. The highest in Central Europe, this amazing three-stage series of waterfalls tumbles almost 1,300 feet, fed by glacial meltwater. Huge clouds of spray are seemingly suspended as if by magic over the lush green forests below, accompanied by the roar of enormous volumes of cascading water. It makes an unforgettable spectacle. At moments like this, Mother Nature’s power and beauty combine to leave observers in complete awe. Ample time remains for a gentle stroll, taking a well-marked footpath revealing delicate and colourful examples of the area’s alpine flora.

DAY 6 – GROSSGLOCKNER Today we pass along one of Europe’s oldest and most

Salzburg

celebrated alpine routes as another chapter in our breathtaking journey into this wonderland unfolds in front of you: Austria’s highest mountain – the Grossglockner. Gradually, the scenery changes from lush green meadow to dark pine forests. Then, above the tree line, a startling landscape of snow and ice reveals itself. Bronze Age knives, ancient gold jewellery and Roman statues found here prove traders have passed this way for at least 3,000 years. The route evolved into a 17th-century pack trail before the present Grossglockner High Alpine Road opened, less than 100 years ago. The road offers eye-catching vistas – glaciers, rugged valleys and mountains – each a natural masterpiece. Other highlights include the carpet-like pastures of the Salzach Valley and the Hochtor Pass, the latter one of Europe’s most elevated at over 8,200 feet. We continue twisting up the ruggedly attractive valley to reach the Pasterze Glacier and the ‘Emperor’s Viewpoint’. In an area defined by an array of spectacular views, this really does stand out: gaze at the rocky crags, pure-white snowfields, tumbling waterfalls and deep-blue ice fields of this mountain wilderness. In the distance, you may hear the eerie whistling cry of marmots, the rather endearing giant squirrels who live here. While eagles soar on the thermals above, keep a lookout for the ibex with their striking horns. If you wish, you can ride the dramatic funicular railway to the Pasterze Glacier and walk on its surface – there are few other places in the world where you can do this (note that this trip is subject to weather conditions).

We return to the hotel for dinner. Over a delicious meal, you can reflect on the magnificent sights you have witnessed during this memorable day.

many resorts, it has some fine traditional buildings, some of which house small museums, including one dedicated to the history of the region and its people.

The 11th-century parish church of Saint Hippolyt rewards a visit, too. You could opt for a cruise on a steamer to view the local bird life and see the villages on the far side of the lake. Those with a head for heights might like to take the cable car to the summit of Zell am See’s own mountain, the Schmittenhöhe, for a marvellous 360-degree panorama of the snowcapped Alps – one more view to take the breath away.

If you have energy to spare, there are many superb walking trails, suitable for all abilities.

DAY 8 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Krimml waterfall

DAY 7 – FREE DAY Today is completely free for you to spend as you please. Perhaps a ride on the cable car up the Kitzsteinhorn, a 10,500-foot peak in the High Tauern range to the south of Kaprun. Just below its summit is one of the largest glaciers in the Alps and here there are never-to-be-forgotten views. Or you may prefer to take a stroll around the village of Kaprun, catch up on some reading or maybe visit nearby Lake Zell.

Nestling on the lakeshore, the town of Zell am See has a delightful centre and waterfront promenade. Unlike

71

PR AG U E , V I E N N A , BOHEMIA & T H E D A N U B E VA L L E Y 8 days from only €1,069pp

Step into a world of grand palaces, Baroque cathedrals and great classical composers, taking in the imperial magnificence of Vienna, the exquisite beauty of Prague and a host of little-known gems typical of the romantic heart of Europe

72

Imperial grandeur, pomp and romance are everpresent in this varied tour to the heart of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, the dominant power in Central Europe for centuries. Prague and Vienna are renowned as two of Europe’s most cultural capital cities, but we also visit many lesser-known gems such as the unimaginably beautiful town of Cesky Krumlov and the Benedictine monastery at Melk, Austria’s most richly decorated building. At every turn you’ll experience tales of emperors and archdukes, enjoy exquisite architecture and discover artistic treasures.

Our tour begins in the 13th-century town of Ceske Budejovice, south of the Czech capital Prague and nestling in Bohemia’s rolling hills and thick forests that were once hunting grounds for medieval nobility. Continuing south, you’ll be enchanted by the majesty of the Danube River as it twists through countless charming villages, their colourful buildings adorned with the murals so typical of Central Europe. With its rugged valley sides covered with

Prague Astronomical Clock

PRICE INCLUDES • Explore medieval Prague on a guided tour, taking in both its famous landmarks and hidden treasures • Tour spectacular Prague Castle and its many extraordinary buildings, including Saint Vitus Cathedral

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Enjoy a classical performance in Vienna Attend a recital by the world-class Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra in the beautiful orangery, the world’s largest where Mozart himself performed in 1786 and many festivities took place during Habsburg reign. Call to pre-book your tickets.

From €52pp.

• Absorb the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs’ summer retreat, on an informative guided tour • Discover the enchanting world of the world-famous Spanish Riding School on a guided tour •

Take a tour of wonderful Vienna, with a local guide relating the fascinating stories of its imperial buildings and cultural treasures

• Visit Melk’s magnificent Benedictine abbey, Austria’s most richly decorated building • Experience the exquisitely beautiful Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov and enjoy a guided tour of its castle • Taste freshly brewed Czech pilsner during a tour of the Budvar Brewery • Marvel at Bohemia’s breathtaking scenery of rolling hills, ancient forests, medieval castles and centuries-old villages

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, plus breakfast and three dinners (two dinners will be taken at local restaurants) Enjoy Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities

neat vineyards and lush forests, punctuated by ruined castles on rocky outcrops, this is some of Europe’s finest river scenery.

Imperial Vienna is a city of immense palaces, churches, grand boulevards and sumptuous cafés where the mellifluous music of Mozart, Mahler and Strauss provides the soundtrack. The heart of the old Habsburg Empire, Vienna absorbed the architectural styles of the areas over which it ruled, and it’s adorned by some of the most impressive Romanesque, Rococo, Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau masterpieces anywhere in Europe. From Saint Stephen’s Cathedral to the crown jewels of the Hofburg, the Spanish Riding School and the priceless art of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, symbols of the city’s historic wealth and power abound.

Then to Prague, variously described as the ‘Magical City’, ‘Golden City’ and ‘City of a Hundred Spires’. The Czech capital’s incredible architecture and cultural ambience derive from its melting-pot history – Slavs, Germans and Jews have all left their marks here. On

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,069PP

a smaller scale than Vienna, it’s the perfect walking city, a magical symphony of cobbled streets, tranquil squares and hidden churches, all overlooked by its striking fortress – truly its beauty rivals that of any city in the world.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN PRAGUE Arrive at the airport for your flight to Prague, where we transfer by coach to Ceske Budejovice, a beautiful town in the heart of scenic Bohemia. Here we stay on the edge of the Old Town for two nights with breakfast in the four-star Hotel Clarion.

DAY 2 – CESKY KRUMLOV Following breakfast we take a short drive through the Bohemian countryside, passing forests where boars still roam, glass-like lakes teeming with birdlife and meadows carpeted in flowers. Your destination is Cesky Krumlov, a town of almost fairy-tale beauty, whose castle and medieval buildings are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here we meet our local guide for an informative tour of the Renaissance castle with its medieval fortifications and Rococo theatre complete with original scenery, which towers majestically above the town’s vanilla- and rose-coloured houses and steep lanes leading to the Vltava River below. Afterwards there’s free time to explore the town, with so much to see, including Saint Vitus Church, museums and traditional shops with artisans at work.

We return to Ceske Budejovice, which is notable for its compact Old Town gathered around an enormous main square. The German name for the town is

Schönbrunn Palace.

73

Budweis, a clue to its most famous product – classic Czech pilsner beer. Brewing has been a way of life here for seven centuries and their Budweiser is not be confused with the American brand sharing its name.

As you’ll find out on our fascinating tour of the Budvar Brewery, the beer is brewed to strict purity laws and can be savoured straight from the barrel.

This evening we discover another aspect of Bohemian culture – its delicious food – as we dine in a local restaurant, soaking up the atmosphere.

DAY 3 – MELK Austria beckons this morning, and we head south through picturesque countryside before crossing the border and continuing towards the River Danube, whose twists and turns we follow to the town of Melk. Nothing prepares you for your first sight of Melk Abbey, a huge building high above the valley, whose extraordinary history and treasures we discover on a guided tour. Originally a castle of the noble Babenberg dynasty, it was gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th century, reconstructed in Baroque style during the 1700s and has remained a monastery to this day. It’s famed for its gilded 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery, portraits of Austrian emperors and library of 100,000 priceless volumes and medieval manuscripts. Most hallowed of all are fragments of the Nibelungenlied, the epic poem that inspired Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle.

Just downstream we follow the Danube’s most beautiful stretch, the fabled Wachau. At its narrowest point, where the river funnels through steep wooded and vine-clad valley sides and cliffs, nestles tiny Dürnstein. Photographs barely do justice to this village’s extraordinary location and beauty. High

74

above is the ruined castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192–93 when returning from the Crusades, but its most eye-catching feature is its Abbey’s Baroque sky-blue steeple singing out from the surrounding gabled terracotta roofs. Stepping inside the splendidly decorated Abbey is like entering another world. There’s time to wander Dürnstein at your leisure, maybe relaxing in a traditional wine tavern for a glass of local Riesling.

We then head through the Wienerwald hills to Vienna, where you enjoy two nights with breakfast at either the four-star Lindner Hotel or the four-star Hotel & Palais Strudlhof.

Melk Abbey

DAY 4 – VIENNA The greatness of Vienna owes everything to its status as the capital of the vast Habsburg Empire that ruled much of Central Europe for centuries, until the end of the First World War. This morning we have a guided tour of this elegant, ordered and civilised city whose rise to prominence began in the 17th century.

Through its monumental palaces, buildings, galleries and churches, you’ll see how Vienna’s power and influence grew over the following two centuries.

The massive Hofburg Palace complex is a striking symbol of Vienna’s rise. This former royal court is now a collection of museums, home to the Spanish Riding School and the crown jewels, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and, at the Imperial Treasury, dazzling relics of the Holy Roman Empire – including what’s believed to be the sabre of Charlemagne.

No visit to Vienna is complete without taking in the sights of the Ringstrasse, the grand boulevard built around the inner city (Innere Stadt) and lined with a procession of architectural masterpieces, including Parliament, City Hall, the Vienna State Opera, the Kunsthistorisches Museum – the world’s fourth largest art collection – and the Natural History Museum.

At its centre is Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose astonishing multicoloured roof and 447-foot-tall spire have dominated the skyline since the 15th century.

The surrounding square is the ideal spot to watch street entertainment, as fire eaters, mime artists and opera singers vie for your attention. If shopping is your passion, visit Graben for all the designer names … or experience one of Vienna’s coffee houses. In almost theatrical settings of tall windows, draped curtains, chandeliers and sometimes even marble pillars,

Wachau

Cesky Krumlov

indulging in coffee and Sachertorte is a Viennese institution and part of the city’s culture.

In the afternoon you can choose to discover more about the 450-year-old Spanish Riding School on a guided tour. Here the renowned Lipizzaner horses are trained in the art of classical dressage. Our expert guide reveals the School’s many aspects, including the world’s largest oval horse walker and the stables in the Stallburg, a gem of a Renaissance building. So much pomp, history, tradition and horsemanship … but the undisputed stars of the tour are the horses themselves.

DAY 5 – SCHONBRUNN PALACE A few miles southwest of the Innere Stadt is the Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs’ summer residence and everything a palace should be: epic in scale, fabulously decorated and crammed with priceless paintings, Chinese and Meissen porcelain, furniture, tapestries, lacquerwork, chandeliers and glassware.

Look above and below – the intricate detail of the floors and ceilings is truly outstanding. The palace, which became the permanent home of Emperor Franz Josef, has 1,441 rooms including the Hall of Mirrors, where the six-year-old Mozart played for Empress Maria Theresa. With so much to take in, our local guide is invaluable for giving insights into the myriad stories associated with Schönbrunn and the people associated with it, from emperors and empresses to the humblest servants.

Outside, as you’d expect, there is a huge expanse of manicured gardens, laid out in a blend of regimented flowerbeds, lawns, fountains and sculptures.

Leaving Vienna, we take a scenic journey through rolling hills back across the border – crossing the former Iron Curtain, still just discernible – to Prague, staying three nights at the four-star Jurys Inn, with breakfast. The hotel is ideally situated on the edge of the medieval city, opposite a tram and metro station allowing easy exploration. This evening, we dine at the hotel.

DAY 6 – PRAGUE Often described as Europe’s most beautiful city, Prague also has a peerless ambience rooted in a turbulent past and a flowering of optimism since the overthrow of Communism. This morning is dedicated to an in-depth tour of its wonderful medieval Old Town – the Stare Mesto – with a guide relating the captivating tales behind the main sights and hidden gems only known to the locals. You’ll see a profusion of architectural splendours, including the iconic Charles Bridge punctuated with statues and turrets, the Gothic Powder Tower, the old Jewish Quarter and Wenceslas Square. At the heart of the Old Town is Staromestske Namesti – the resplendent square flanked on all sides by fairy-tale buildings in myriad styles, from the Gothic intricacies of the doublesteepled Tyn Church to the Baroque Church of Saint Nicholas. And, of course, there’s the Town Hall and its legendary 15th-century astronomical clock, which marks the hour with a macabre display of medieval characters in procession. If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb the steps to the top of the Town Hall tower for superb views.

This afternoon is free to spend as you please, perhaps wandering back to your favourite spot to explore further, seeking out some of Prague’s many Art Nouveau buildings or taking a scenic cruise along the Vltava for a different perspective on the city.

DAY 7 – PRAGUE CASTLE This morning we explore Hradcany, Prague’s spectacular castle and cathedral complex and the centre of political power for a thousand years.

Soaring above the city, it is said to be the world’s largest castle, whose fascinating history has resulted in a sublime mélange of palaces, churches and fortifications, all ripe for exploration. Dominating its heights is Saint Vitus Cathedral. Construction started in 1344 and, although there are some Renaissance and Baroque flourishes, it was only in the 19th and 20th centuries that the stupendous building you see now was completed. There’s much to see inside, not least its spectacular nave, luminous stained-glass windows and the Saint Wenceslas Chapel, with its walls adorned with semiprecious stones. Among the many other highlights within the castle walls are the Spanish Hall and its amazing art collection, featuring works by Brueghel, Dürer, Holbein, Leonardo da Vinci and Titian, the original craftsmen’s houses on Golden Lane and the Romanesque Saint George’s Basilica.

Outside, Hradcany also offers spectacular views as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ spreads out before you. This afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Perhaps stroll down to the medieval city, relax over a coffee or beer in one of the city’s characterful hostelries or maybe browse the many gorgeously decorated shops. Rounding off a memorable day is dinner is at a charming local restaurant, where you can reflect on the wonders of this diverse and culturally rich corner of Europe.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

Prague

75

TIMELESS PROV E N C E 8 days from only €1,179pp

Provence is a feast for the senses with a striking natural beauty that inspired some of the greatest artists, intriguing historic towns like Aix and Avignon, plus the unique Camargue wetlands, stunning Luberon Mountains and spectacular rugged coastline.

76

Provence is arguably the most seductive of all the French regions. Bordered by the foothills of the Alps to the north and east, the Rhône River to the west and, of course, the Mediterranean to the south, this is a land of striking natural beauty – colourful fields of lavender and sunflowers interspersed with vineyards, olive groves and gently rolling hills. Deep valleys are carpeted with oak and pine forests, garrigue-covered hillsides are punctuated by elegant cypresses… all filling the air with a distinctive Provençal aroma while cicadas gently hum in the background.

Then there’s the wild natural beauty of the Camargue. Here at the delta of the great Rhône River white horses gallop across flat wetlands, herds of black bulls roam and striking flocks of pink flamingos fly and land in perfect formation.

Historically, the Greeks visited, the Phoenicians traded, the Saracens looted, but most of all the Romans settled. All have left their legacies, but the Romans loved Provence so much that there are more remains of their remarkable civilisation here than anywhere else in Europe outside Italy.

Aix-en-Provence

PRICE INCLUDES

• Enjoy a guided tour of Aix-en Provence, the ‘City of a Thousand Fountains’ and home to artist Paul Cézanne • Discover Avignon’s sublime medieval architecture, including the Palais des Papes and near-mythical bridge •

Learn about the capital of Roman Gaul on a walking tour of Arles, with its superbly preserved amphitheatre and Van Gogh heritage

• Tour the picture-postcard fishing village of Cassis and see the dramatic Calanques cliffs on a boat trip •

Visit the Camargue, the unique wetland region famous for its black bulls, white horses and pink flamingos, and enjoy a boat trip through the Carmague delta

• Experience the spectacularly beautiful landscapes, enchanting hilltop villages and pure natural light of the Luberon Mountains • Marvel at the Pont du Gard, one of the largest and best-preserved Roman aqueducts

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in four- to four-star superior accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and two dinners, plus two dinners in carefully selected restaurants

• The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout Discover the breathtaking French countryside

Provençal towns are a real delight and each one so very distinctive. Perhaps the most famous is Aix-en-Provence, its old quarter comprising colourful streets lined with traditional shops and hidden squares sprinkled with pretty fountains that create an atmosphere of cool tranquility.

You’ll love its vibrant markets and café terraces nestling under the shade of countless plane trees.

Over it all towers the majestic Mont SainteVictoire, immortalised by Cézanne in more than 60 works of art. In fact, the whole region has been a magnet for artists including Van Gogh and Renoir, who were drawn to Provence’s incredible natural beauty and luminosity of light.

The historic papal city of Avignon boasts a wealth of imposing medieval buildings as well as a fabled bridge, while Arles’s ancient monuments are simply breathtaking… not least its spectacular amphitheatre. Another awe-inspiring man-made wonder is the mighty Pont du Gard aqueduct; built nearly two millennia ago, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Provence’s Roman occupiers.

Did we mention the region’s wild coastline studded

FROM €1,179PP

with gorgeous bays, fishing villages and towering cliffs? You’ll be amazed at just how unspoilt it is.

All the fragrances and colours of this sun-drenched land are concentrated in the local cuisine – garlic, olive oil, fresh seafood and vibrantly coloured Mediterranean vegetables, enhanced by the most fragrant herbs – you’ll be savouring food at its freshest and most flavoursome. Accompany your meal with a glass of one of the world’s finest wines, the local Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

With so much to offer, from history to art and from fascinating towns to a wondrous landscape all under the most perfect of blue skies, Provence is just waiting to be discovered.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN AIX-EN-PROVENCE Arrive at the airport for your flight to Nice. We transfer by coach to a choice of hotels in Aixen-Provence, where you stay for seven nights with breakfast and two dinners in your chosen hotel and two dinners in local restaurants.

DAY 2 – TOUR OF AIX-EN-PROVENCE Beautiful Aix-en-Provence seamlessly combines Parisian-style chic with village-like gentility. Founded as a spa town by the Romans, it became the capital of Provence during the Middle Ages and evolved into a major educational and artistic hub. Aix is known as the ‘City of a Thousand Fountains’ and the tranquil sound of running water accompanies you down colourful boulevards, through fine squares and labyrinthine alleyways. During a morning guided walking tour you’ll see what inspired the city’s favourite son, Paul Cézanne, to produce numerous paintings in and around Aix. The afternoon is yours to spend as you wish in this wonderful Provençal city, perhaps taking the opportunity to visit Cézanne’s perfectly preserved workshop.

DAY 3 – THE CAMARGUE After breakfast we head to the Camargue, the delta of the great Rhône River and a beguiling landscape of flat saltwater marshland teeming with around 400 species of birds – including remarkable pink flamingos. This designated national park is also home to the region’s iconic black bulls and an ancient breed of white horse, some of which you may spot being ridden by the Camargue’s famous ‘cowboys’. We arrive at the small port town of Saintes Maries de la Mer and take a guided boat trip to explore the natural splendour of this wetland environment – don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

Avignon

77

The Camargue

We then make the short trip to extraordinary Arles, a prosperous Roman regional capital from the 1st century AD. You’ll marvel at the city’s impressive UNESCO-listed monuments on a fascinating walking tour, taking in the incredibly well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the theatre built by the Emperor Augustus and the Forum, once the city’s heart.

There’s free time to spend in Arles, perhaps to seek out locations associated with Vincent Van Gogh, who spent 14 months here from early 1888. It was his most prolific period and, inspired by Arles and the light and beauty of the Provençal countryside, he produced around 300 works, including The Café Terrace at Night, The Sower and, of course, Sunflowers.

DAY 4 – LUBERON MOUNTAINS This morning we travel north to the stunning Luberon Mountains. The region’s pure natural light has always attracted artists, while the hilltops are crowned by enchanting villages that, at a distance, appear frozen in medieval times, yet are alive with vibrant bistros, rustic restaurants and markets selling fabulous local produce. The landscape in this designated Regional Nature Park changes dramatically from flat plains dotted with olive and peach groves to sloping vineyards and then, higher up, rows of lavender whose fragrance mingles with pine and wild herbs to give the unmistakable aroma of rural Provence.

DAY 5 – AVIGNON Today we visit historic Avignon, whose destiny changed in the 14th century when the Pope’s court was exiled here from Rome. Vast wealth poured in to build churches, convents and elegant townhouses, but especially the incredible Palais des Papes. You’ll have time to explore this imposing palace – one of Europe’s largest Gothic buildings – which resembles a citadel rising from living rock, flanked by towering turrets. Alternatively you could visit the Petit Palais Museum, which houses an excellent collection of more than 300 paintings from the Middle Ages and Renaissance, while a walk (or even dance!) on the city’s celebrated 12th-century bridge will have you singing a certain French song for the rest of the day.

78

We return to Aix via the Pont du Gard, an aqueduct constructed in the 1st century AD as part of a 30-mile route supplying water to the Roman city of Nîmes. The three-tiered, arched structure measures over 900 feet in length and almost 160 feet in height; stand back to absorb the beauty of this engineering masterpiece and you’ll understand why it’s considered a wonder of the ancient world.

DAY 6 – FREE DAY A free day to spend as you wish in Aix. Wander along Cours Mirabeau, Aix’s elegant main street, and peel off into the maze of lanes to discover tiny

See the astonishing Pont du Gard

squares and myriad fountains. Alternatively visit the superb Musée Granet and its collection of works by Cézanne, Degas, Picasso, Matisse and Monet, or the fascinating Museum of Natural History where you can view a collection of dinosaur eggs unearthed on the slopes of nearby Mont Sainte-Victoire.

DAY 7 – CASSIS An invigorating trip by the sea today as we head to the rugged coast and the lovely fishing port of Cassis whose painted cottages, charming little harbour and sandy beach are all overlooked by a mighty medieval fortress. Situated in a spectacular bay, the town has attracted numerous famous visitors over the years – including Virginia Woolf and Sir Winston Churchill, who took painting lessons here in the 1920s. Choose one of the many waterside restaurants for a lunch of freshly caught fish before taking an afternoon boat trip to see the Massif des Calanques, a rugged coastline of dazzling white cliffs, rock pinnacles and rare seabirds.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Cassis

WE OFFER A CHOICE OF HOTELS ON THIS TOUR. Four-star Novotel Aix Beaumanoir Situated on the outskirts of the city, this welcoming hotel is a purpose-built property with comfortable

air-conditioned rooms featuring satellite TV, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a safe. Set in its own garden, the hotel has a pleasant bar and restaurant, outside terrace and a swimming pool (open in the summer months).

Four-star Aquabella Hotel and Spa The Aquabella is a converted 18th-century townhouse next to the old town – a part of the surviving medieval wall actually forms the hotel’s boundary. It’s an oasis of calm set in a large private garden with an olive grove, terrace and heated outdoor swimming pool (open in the summer months). The hotel features a spa centre with a sauna and jacuzzi plus the option of treatments including spring water hydrotherapy (local costs apply). There are inside and outside bars, a restaurant overlooking the gardens and comfortable rooms.

Four-star superior MGallery Roi René Exceptionally chic, it offers a stylish atmosphere coupled with attentive service just steps away from the city’s atmospheric Cours Mirabeau. Light and airy rooms feature top-quality fittings and luxurious touches such as bathrobes. The hotel is centred around an internal courtyard with comfortable seating and a heated outdoor pool (open in the summer months). The intimate bar and restaurant are the perfect places to relax while the energetic can make use of a fitness room.

79

SWITZERL AND’S BERNESE OBERLAND 8 days from only €1,939pp

Snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, picturesque cities, alpine meadows, wooden chalets with billowing flower boxes, the purest air – explore the classic image of Switzerland by railway, lake steamer and cable car.

Victorian tourists loved Interlaken, an elegant resort located between two lakes, Thunersee and Brienzersee. Well-heeled travellers came to this welcoming town to enjoy the warm sunshine, pure air, crystal-clear lake waters and glorious views of the snowy Jungfrau mountains. As you explore the delights of Interlaken itself and the many attractions within easy reach, you’d be forgiven for thinking that little has changed since the days of those first tourists.

The best way to explore Switzerland is by the famously efficient railway service, and we take several unforgettable train journeys through the Bernese Oberland, where you can marvel at the countless examples of gravity-defying Swiss engineering. You’ll ride up to Kleine Scheidegg for superb views of the infamous Eiger North Wall and take a steam train from Brienz to the summit of the Rothorn mountain.

Your holiday includes a Bernese Oberland Regional Pass, which gives unlimited access to a huge variety of railway and PostBus routes throughout the region.

But we don’t just travel by train – to reach pristine Lake Oeschinen, nestling below an amphitheatre of dramatic peaks, we take a spectacular cable car ride,

80

returning to Interlaken along the placid Brienzersee by lake steamer, with soaring peaks and forested valley sides reflected in the shimmering water.

Switzerland isn’t just about lakes and mountains, dazzling though they are. We also visit the beautiful city of Lucerne, which has always attracted tourists, including our own Queen Victoria, drawn by its location and its 14th-century Chapel Bridge. On one of your free days you could visit Bern, the country’s picturesque capital. With its cobbled streets, shady arcades and painted fountains, the charming historic centre surrounding the Late Gothic cathedral has remained largely untouched since the 16th century.

Equally enchanting are the villages and towns spread out across the meadow-covered valley floors, with their traditional wooden chalets, billowing flower boxes and pretty churches.

All this makes Interlaken the ideal base for this varied tour, which includes two free days for you to choose your own preferred itinerary, plus five days of planned touring exploring the very best the region offers. It’s the perfect way to experience the Bernese Oberland, a jewel at the heart of Europe.

PRICE INCLUDES • Visit the lakeside resort of Brienz and ride the cog railway to the summit of the Rothorn mountain • Enjoy a spectacular cable car journey to beautiful Lake Oeschinen • Take the train through the Brünig Pass to Lucerne, with its picturesque waterfront •

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Try the James Bond experience Head to the summit of the Schilthorn for stunning views of the Swiss skyline and relive James Bond’s adventures from On Her Majesty’s Secret Service at the interactive Bond World 007 exhibition.

Perhaps enjoy lunch at the revolving restaurant with superb views of the alpine peaks. From €35pp.

Admire some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking scenery on a rail journey past the towering Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger mountains

• See the famous Reichenbach Falls and the Sherlock Holmes Museum on a visit to Meiringen • Cruise by lake steamer in Spiez and Brienz •

Explore the Bernese Oberland with a complimentary Bernese Oberland Regional Pass, allowing free travel on the entire railway network

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,939PP

Experience the dramatic mountain scenery by rail

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN INTERLAKEN Arrive at the airport for your flight to Geneva. We transfer by coach to stay for seven nights at the extremely comfortable four-star MGallery Royal St Georges Hotel, with breakfast and dinner. Ideally situated just a few minutes’ walk from the railway station and close to the town’s main green space and numerous shops, this is one of the ‘grandes dames’ of Interlaken’s hotels and has been welcoming visitors since 1908. The Art Nouveau marble lobby and public rooms have been carefully renovated and facilities include the stylish Lounge Royal bar, a large, ornate dining room and the Verandah restaurant. There’s also a terrace and garden to the rear, overlooking the Harder Kulm peak. The bedrooms (in either modern or traditional style) have satellite TV, safe, minibar and Wi-Fi.

you and today you’ll get close to some of the world’s most famous peaks – the majestic Jungfrau (young maiden), Mönch (monk) and Eiger (ogre). Together they form a trio of giant snow-capped summits soaring upwards to over 13,000 feet. We take the narrow-gauge railway to Lauterbrunnen, nestling in a stunning vertical-sided glacial valley formed many thousands of years ago. With mountains now completely dominating the skyline and with only

upward views, we change onto the mountain cog railway. It climbs steeply through the fashionable ski resort of Wengen, across the slopes of the Lauberhorn, best known for its World Cup ski race, to reach one of Europe’s highest railway junctions, Kleine Scheidegg – and some of the world’s most impressive alpine scenery. You’ll wonder at the courage of climbers conquering these forbidding peaks and glistening icefields. Breathe deeply and take the crisp mountain air deep into your lungs – it’s truly invigorating. You’ll want to take lots of photos before descending to the mountain resort of Grindelwald and its typically Swiss ‘chocolate box’ chalets.

This afternoon we take the yellow PostBus for a scenic drive over the 6,400-foot Grosse Scheidegg pass.

This is one of the most dramatic routes in the region, crossing the ‘secret’ Rosenlaui Valley, where no private cars are allowed to disturb the tranquillity of the flower-filled meadows that are dwarfed by the jagged peak of the Wetterhorn. Finally we reach Meiringen – a wonderfully attractive town, perhaps most famous for the nearby Reichenbach Falls. It was against the backdrop of this water torrent plunging towards the valley floor that Sherlock Holmes met his demise in his epic struggle with Professor Moriarty. You can visit the small Sherlock Holmes Museum or just relax in Meiringen itself before joining the train back along the shores of the pretty Brienzersee to Interlaken.

Brienz Rothorn Railway

DAY 2 – INTERLAKEN Well known for its relaxed, genteel atmosphere and excellent transport links, Interlaken lies at the heart of the Bernese Oberland, making the region’s many attractions easy to visit. Mighty mountains surround

81

DAY 3 – BRIENZ ROTHORN RAILWAY Since the late 19th century, some of the world’s most amazing feats of railway engineering have transported travellers high into the Swiss mountains. Many lines are so steep that they can only be conquered by toothed ‘rack’ rails running between conventional tracks. And while most of the original steam locomotives are long gone, now replaced with electric or diesel engines, today you can experience one of the few routes still operated primarily by steam.

After a short regular train journey to the lakeside resort of Brienz, we join the remarkable Brienz Rothorn Railway for the breathtaking ride to the top of the Rothorn, a 7,710-foot peak with superb panoramic views across lakes and valleys to the surrounding summits – including the iconic Matterhorn. Although many of the locomotives are modern diesels, a few of the original coal-burning engines from the 1892 line still operate. The sight and sound of these ‘old ladies’ huffing and puffing their way up the mountain, just as they did over a century ago, is wonderful. There’s time for lunch at the summit and a leisurely wander around Brienz itself following the return ride. If you’re feeling energetic you can choose instead to take the steep but enjoyable hike down the mountain. After that, we return by lake steamer across the Brienzersee to Interlaken.

DAY 4 – FREE DAY IN INTERLAKEN There are countless fascinating things to do in and around Interlaken – and it’s nice to have a choice. So today is free to spend as you wish. Explore the town at your leisure or use your included Bernese Oberland Pass to discover more of the surrounding region. If you feel like a gentle walk in peaceful surroundings without travelling too far, the Swiss footpath network is meticulously signposted. You could take the funicular to Harder Kulm, or the PostBus to the villages of Habkern or Beatenberg for glorious views over the Thunersee and the snow-clad Jungfrau. Or there’s the ride up the other side of the valley from Lauterbrunnen to the village of Mürren. Perched high on a ledge, this is where Arnold Lunn developed the idea of the downhill skiing holiday and founded the company that eventually became Lunn Poly. This lovely car-free village is a great spot for lunch.

To personalise your holiday you could take the spectacular cable car ride to the Schilthorn. Famous for its revolving restaurant with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains, it starred in the 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. On

Brienz

82

Grindelwald

the return journey you might like to stop to view the amazing Trümmelbach Falls, hidden within a deep cleft in the mountain. And anyone with an interest in flora should definitely consider a day out riding the historic cog railway that winds upwards from the tranquil village of Wilderswil to the Schynige Platte peak, home to an excellent alpine garden featuring many rare plants, including the legendary edelweiss. Wherever you choose to go, keep an eye out for the gorgeous pink glow on the snowy peaks as the sun sets.

DAY 5 – LAKE OESCHINEN Today’s trip starts with a train journey along the lake to Spiez. Here we change onto the BLS railway that twists and turns up the picturesque Kander Valley to the small town of Kandersteg. Then we take a cable car for a spectacular ride to beautiful Lake Oeschinen, set in a mountain amphitheatre high above the main valley, carpeted with a kaleidoscope of colourful wildflowers.

On a short scenic walk we pass the lush pastures nourishing cows whose rich milk goes into making that legendary Swiss chocolate.

Returning to picturesque Spiez, there’s free time for lunch and a wander before returning at your leisure by lake steamer to Interlaken – you might like to stop off and explore the pretty communities lining the lakeside.

DAY 6 – LUCERNE Today we enjoy a visit to Lucerne. After breakfast our outward train takes the lakeside route to Brienz, then

we go over the steeply graded Brünig Pass into central Switzerland. As you leave the station in Lucerne you’re greeted by one of Switzerland’s iconic images – Chapel Bridge with its octagonal water tower. The oldest covered wooden bridge in the world, it was originally built as a defensive work and is now the symbol of this elegant city.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore Lucerne, its charming waterfront and the narrow streets and squares of its car-free Old Town. Then we board the narrow-gauge train, returning back over the Brünig Pass via Meiringen along the lake to Interlaken.

Stroll along Lucerne’s charming waterfront

DAY 7 – FREE DAY Your last day is free for you to choose your own personal itinerary, perhaps using your Bernese Oberland Pass. You might decide to take the easy ride to Bern for a day of shopping and culture in the city where Einstein worked. Another relatively short trip will take you to Mülenen for a ride on one of Europe’s longest funiculars to the summit of Niesen, the conical mountain with tremendous views over Spiez and the Thunersee. Or there’s Gstaad, the super-chic resort on the route of the GoldenPass narrow-gauge ‘express’ train.

Close to Meiringen is the excellent Swiss Open-Air Museum at Ballenberg, where you’ll find reconstructions of historic houses and farms from around Switzerland –giving you a real insight into a former rural way of life, much of which has now disappeared. If the weather looks good and you’re eager for even more high mountain scenery, you can take the train to Kleine Scheidegg and continue on the Jungfrau Railway through the heart of the Eiger mountain itself to Jungfraujoch (direct supplement payable). This is Europe’s highest railway station, with breathtaking glacier views that are normally reserved for the hardiest mountaineers. This evening we enjoy our final dinner together in the Royal St Georges. It’s your last chance to swap stories and share the wonders of Switzerland’s stunning Bernese Oberland with your fellow travellers.

Lake Oeschinen

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to Geneva Airport for your flight home.

83

BERLIN, DRESDEN, MEISSEN & COLDITZ 5 days from only €729pp

Witness Germany’s past and present merging in the most fascinating ways – taking in Berlin’s eclectic ambience, Dresden’s resurrected architectural glories, the artisanal heritage of medieval Meissen and the pure adventure of Colditz Castle.

On this intriguingly varied tour, we experience two of Europe’s greatest cultural cities, Berlin and Dresden. Both have endured violent interludes in otherwise glittering histories and have now returned to their former glory at the heart of 21st- century Europe. The outpouring of joy and energy that accompanied the fall of the Berlin Wall nearly 30 years ago rekindled Berlin’s legendary vibrancy, and this modern city throbs with new life while doffing its cap respectfully to the past. Iconic locations abound – from Checkpoint Charlie with its spy stories, to the magnificent avenue of Unter den Linden with its many cafés and museums. Here we also see the Brandenburg Gate and the instantly recognisable Reichstag, symbol of the new Germany. Perhaps more sedate than Berlin, Dresden is a cultural jewel reborn as a beacon of hope and peace, revelling in the renewed splendour of its architecture, opera and museums. Before the last war it was Germany’s most beautiful city thanks to its imposing Baroque buildings and many art treasures. After huge bomb damage, Dresden has been almost completely restored as part of an extraordinary restoration project spanning 60 years, – and the results are breathtaking. But there’s much more to this tour than these two re-energised cities as we experience Germany’s traditional side through its rolling countryside, small towns and picturesque villages. There will also be reminders of old East Germany, including an occasional Trabant,

84

the still sought-after car that is so associated with the period – you can even choose to experience Berlin from this unique viewpoint as part of a ‘Trabi’ safari. We explore the medieval town of Meissen, where highly skilled artisans craft exquisite porcelain in the only factory in Europe where the process is still completed entirely by hand. Finally, and in complete contrast to picturesque Meissen, we visit Colditz Castle, the infamous prisoner of war camp for serial would-be escapees – inmates included the legless fighter pilot Douglas Bader. This is a tour that reveals Germany’s delightful contrasts, from its vibrant modern cities to its charming rural landscapes, and lets you experience the past, present and future of this remarkable country.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN BERLIN Arrive at the airport for your flight to Berlin. On arrival, we transfer to either the four-star superior Hotel Maritim Berlin or the four-star superior Maritim Pro Arte for two nights. The Hotel Maritim Berlin is ideally located very near the famous Potsdamer Platz in the heart of the city, so convenient for visiting the sights. The Maritim Pro Arte is a beautiful modern hotel conveniently situated between the Brandenburg Gate and the Gendarmenmarkt, and is just a stone’s throw from Unter den Linden with its elegant shops – perfect for exploring on foot.

The hotel is spacious, very comfortable and houses a wonderful art collection.

DAY 2 – BERLIN Berlin is an incredible place. Originally two separate 14th-century towns, it has long been a city of contrasts and never more so than in its recent past, which makes it such a fascinating place to visit.

This morning we have a sight-seeing tour taking in many landmarks, including Checkpoint Charlie, a poignant symbol of the Cold War when the city was divided between East and West. You’ll see the Brandenburg Gate – one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks – and the Reichstag, the parliament of the reunified Germany that is steeped in history and partially reconstructed by Norman Foster. We also take in Unter Den Linden, the city’s most famous boulevard, the imposing cathedral and of course what remains of the Berlin Wall – now a protected historical monument.

The afternoon is free for you to explore. Berlin’s turbulent political past makes it such an absorbing place, but it is also an incredibly vibrant city with a character and optimism to match. It strongly rewards exploring on foot – visit the impressive Charlottenburg Palace and the legendary Olympiastadion stadium, or you may wish to take a short train ride to Potsdam and the Sanssouci Palace, home of the famous Prussian king Frederick the Great.

DAY 3 – COLDITZ & MEISSEN After breakfast we drive through gentle rolling woodland and fields into Saxony, crossing the mighty

PRICE INCLUDES •

Discover Berlin’s most iconic locations, including the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, historic Unter den Linden and more on a sightseeing tour

• Absorb the German capital’s eclectic ambience and discover its world-class archaeological and art museums •

Enjoy a walking tour of Dresden, the ‘Florence of the Elbe’, whose Renaissance, Baroque and Classical buildings have been rebuilt and restored to their original magnificence

•

Visit medieval Meissen and tour the world-famous porcelain studio, where an expert guide explains how its unique creations are hand crafted using centuries-old techniques

•

Hear tales of heroic escapes brought to life on our guided tour of Colditz Castle, the infamous Second World War prison

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Four nights in four-star superior accommodation inclusive of all local taxes with breakfast • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €729PP See the famous Brandenburg Gate

River Elbe en route to somewhere synonymous with the heroic art of escape: Colditz. The supposedly escape-proof castle towers on its clifftop, looming over the town below. Our guided tour and the related exhibition offer intriguing insights into the lives of

both inmates and guards. We see escape tunnels, a home-made radio, false uniforms and other escape equipment, all ingeniously crafted from whatever materials were to hand. Much was secreted about the buildings and, like the ‘radio room’, was discovered by maintenance workers after the war. Some of the most moving exhibits are postcards sent by prisoners Dresden

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Dine in Berlin TV Tower’s revolving restaurant Enjoy panoramic views while you dine at Sphere in Berlin’s tallest building at 679 feet above the city. Skip the queues, ascend to your reserved table and take in incredible vistas of the city’s landmarks while you enjoy your two-course dinner, accompanied by three glasses of wine. From €85pp. to their children, whom they were not to see for many years.

Next we visit nearby the town of Meissen, famous for producing the first porcelain to be made outside of China. We have a remarkable tour revealing how, since 1710, highly skilled artisans have created these unique works of art. Many porcelain pieces take weeks or even months to finish, and in the museum you can enjoy many of the splendid examples from throughout the company’s existence.

We soon arrive in Dresden for two nights, at the centrally located four-star superior Hotel Steigenberger. Beautifully designed, this is a modern property; the rooms are superbly decorated and have all the facilities you would expect of a hotel of this quality. On some tour dates we’ll stay at the fourstar superior Maritim Hotel, situated on the banks of the River Elbe and just a few minutes’ walk from the historic city centre. Both properties feature excellent restaurants and inviting bars, so your comfort at these international-standard hotels is assured.

DAY 4 – DRESDEN Sitting majestically astride the stately waters of the River Elbe and dating from the 12th century, Dresden is a strikingly beautiful place to visit. It rose to artistic prominence during the early 18th century when August the Strong, ruler of Poland and Saxony, gathered many of Europe’s best musicians, architects and artists in his capital. Its pre-eminence as a centre for art, classical music and science saw the emergence of fine Renaissance, Baroque and Classical buildings, the majority of which – though destroyed by the Allied bombings of 1945 – have been wonderfully restored in recent years, returning Dresden to its former glory. This morning we have a walking tour around these revitalised architectural gems, and in the afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Absorb the ambience of Dresden’s many enchanting shops, seek out a cosy restaurant down one of the quaintly cobbled streets, or simply enjoy the numerous talented street musicians that keep Dresden’s musical heritage alive.

DAY 5 – RETURN FLIGHT After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Please note: On some dates, this tour operates in reverse order.

85

ICELAND 5 days from only €1,399pp

Experience raw nature in breathtaking Iceland, where the power of this ancient land can be seen in its volcanoes, thermal springs, geysers and glaciers, and the icy seas teem with wildlife, from whales and dolphins to colourful puffins.

In this modern age of restaurant chains, big brands and designer shops, some countries can seem a little familiar – but not Iceland! It’s like nowhere else on earth, with friendly yet fiercely independent and resilient locals, a culture steeped in Norse mythology and a landscape forged by the forces of water, ice and fire.

On this exhilarating tour you’ll see nature at its most spectacular: dramatic lava fields, snow-capped volcanoes, enormous glaciers and majestic waterfalls.

You’ll swim in a geothermal pool, stand near an explosive geyser and enjoy a cruise to see – luck permitting – whales, dolphins and puffins. Then there’s Reykjavik, the capital of this sparsely populated island and as charming a capital city as you’ll ever find. We enjoy a tour taking in its cultural and architectural highlights, and it’s also the perfect base for exploring Iceland’s fabled ‘Golden Circle’ of natural wonders whose beauty will, quite simply, leave you lost for words.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN REYKJAVIK Arrive at the airport for your flight to Reykjavik.

Depending on the departure date of the tour, we transfer by coach to one of two carefully selected hotels to stay for four nights, with breakfast. The

86

four-star Centrum is situated on the city’s oldest street and spread across three buildings, the oldest built in 1764. They have been sympathetically renovated in the style of early 1900s Reykjavik, while underneath the hotel are the remains of a Viking longhouse. The modern rooms feature satellite TV, minibar, iron and ironing board, safe, Wi-Fi, hairdryer and tea- and coffee-making facilities.

The four-star Fosshotel Reykjavik blends Scandinavian style and class with sophisticated decor. The largest hotel in Iceland, it’s located close to Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street, which also offers a choice of bars and restaurants. The bright and spacious rooms are fully equipped with flat-screen TV, iron and ironing board, safe, tea- and coffee-making facilities, Wi-Fi and hairdryer.

DAY 2 – SPECTACULAR WATERFALLS & THE BLACK BEACH Today we explore Iceland’s wonderfully diverse southwestern shoreline. We ascend into a remarkable lunar-like landscape of multicoloured lava plateaus, travel through the Threngsli Pass and then descend to the sparkling Olfusa River, famous for its excellent salmon. Some of Iceland’s prettiest landscapes now lie before us as we pass farms and charming villages

set among pleasant pastures – keep an eye out for the exceptionally hardy Icelandic horses. To the north you can see the Myrdalsjokull and Eyjafjallajokull glaciers, the latter famous for its active volcano below, which famously disrupted Europe’s air traffic following an eruption in 2010. We head to two of Iceland’s most

PRICE INCLUDES

• Get to know Reykjavik on a guided

tour of the world’s northernmost capital • Discover UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park with its magnificent lake, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge divides Iceland • Take a dip in the mineral-rich geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, heated to a constant 38 degrees Celsius • Experience the awesome natural power of Gullfoss, Iceland’s iconic waterfall • Enjoy a spellbinding cruise with the chance to spot whales and dolphins • Travel across contorted lava fields through the Threngsli Pass, where two continents meet, and see the immense Solheimajokull glacier

Experience some of Iceland’s most astonishing natural wonders

spectacular waterfalls: majestic Seljalandsfoss, which tumbles ribbon-like over a huge overhanging lava cliff, and Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls, which plunges almost 200 feet in an impressive shower of shimmering spray.

The wonders continue as we approach the imposing wall of ice at the head of the immense five-mile-long Solheimajokull glacier. You may notice a distinctive aroma here – the glacial waters are known as the ‘Stinking River’ due to the sulphuric acid content in the hot geothermal rocks below. Next we travel to Reynisfjara, close to Iceland’s southern most point, to see the famous Black Beach, where you may, depending on the time of the year, be lucky and spot the renowned puffin colonies.

DAY 3 – WHALE-WATCHING & BLUE LAGOON Today we experience something completely different, taking a boat out in search of two of the planet’s most graceful creatures: whales and dolphins.

Depending on conditions – and with a little luck – we may see some of the many species of whales living in Icelandic waters, such as humpbacks and killer whales, though more common are the delightful minkes as well as dolphins. Have your camera at the ready – the moment when you first spot the dorsal

fin of a whale breaking the surface in front of you is incredibly special. Puffins nest on some of the offshore islands, and you may see them diving into the water or jumping off cliffs in a remarkable display of aquabatics.

In the early afternoon we enjoy a sightseeing tour of Reykjavik. Situated on a fjord with a natural harbour, the city is dominated by the concrete Hallgrimskirkja – the country’s largest church, its design inspired by volcanic basalt. In front of the church is a monument to the Norse explorer Leif Eriksson, who is believed to have discovered America 500 years before Columbus. You’ll also see historic Hofdi House, site of the landmark 1986 Reykjavik summit between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev that signalled the end of the Cold War. Nearby is the modern-day home of the Althing, considered the world’s oldest national parliament, while the old harbour evokes timeless scenes as weather-beaten trawlermen unload their hauls.

We end the day with a visit to Iceland’s celebrated Blue Lagoon, where there’s the opportunity for a unique bathing experience. Against a stunning volcanic backdrop, you can enjoy a restorative dip in the lagoon’s mineral-rich waters that are geothermally heated to a constant 38 degrees Celsius.

DAY 4 – GOLDEN CIRCLE No visit to Iceland would be complete without a trip to its renowned ‘Golden Circle’. This southern region serves up a dramatic cocktail of breathtaking scenery, fascinating geology and an ancient heritage that makes an unforgettable full-day tour.

After passing jets of steam noisily erupting from the bare earth, we arrive at the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, which is situated on the northern shore of Iceland’s largest lake. Iceland was formed from volcanic activity after the North American and Eurasian continental plates split, and the park is located in a rift valley between the two plates. One side marks the edge of the American continent, while the other is part of the Eurasian plate.

Even for those with only a passing interest in geology, it’s an astonishing insight into the geological forces that shape our planet. Thingvellir has further historical

• Visit Reynisfjara’s black-sand beach, home to puffins and extraordinary rock formations • Marvel at the famous Eyjafjallajokull volcano • Encounter the extraordinary Strokkur geyser, located in one of the world’s most geothermally active areas

Plus, of course...

• •

•

Return flights with hotel transfers Four nights in a choice of centrally located, four-star accommodation including all local taxes, with breakfast The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,399PP Blue Lagoon

interest, this time political – it’s the original location for Iceland’s parliament, the Althing, which first met here in the year 930.

Continuing to the Hvita River, we travel upstream to a layer of tiered rock ‘pavements’ and a smokelike column of spray rising above the lava fields. The natural wonder before you is Gullfoss, or ‘Golden Waterfall’, a beautiful two-level cascade that drops from more than 100 feet above, a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.

We then head to another astounding phenomenon – Haukadalur, one of the most active geothermal areas on our planet. In the steaming volcanic landscape you’ll experience the amazing Strokkur geyser, a gurgling pool of boiling water that simmers away before firing a jet of steam and water up to 100 feet high about every 10 minutes. The whole area of Haukadalur has an otherworldly feel, with few signs of habitation in the rocky, treeless terrain of hot springs and moss-covered lava formations.

DAY 5 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

87

N O R WAY 8 days from only €1,549pp

A wonderfully varied tour to Norway, highlighting its extraordinary natural beauty, Viking heritage and wartime courage plus sophisticated cities full of Scandinavian style and the spectacular Flam Railway, ‘the world’s most incredible train journey’.

Norway’s spectacular fjords are renowned the world over, yet this Scandinavian country is home to a wealth of other natural, historical and cultural gems.

Its sophisticated capital, Oslo, delightfully located at the head of its own fjord, is home to countless attractions. From its amazing contemporary Opera House, built to resemble a glacier emerging from the water, to the Royal Palace, art galleries and superb museums, this is a city guaranteed to surprise and delight.

We also enjoy two of Europe’s most breathtaking rail journeys. The Oslo to Bergen line travels across an exquisite terrain of high plateaus and crystal-clear lakes, while the awe-inspiring Flam railway descends over 2,800 feet to sea level in just under an hour.

It’s one of the steepest standard-gauge railways anywhere – no wonder it has been called ‘the world’s most incredible train journey’. Then there are, of course, the majestic fjords – and our tour includes cruises on two of the most unforgettable, including UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord. We travel north to the classic Nordic city of Bergen, a member of the medieval Hanseatic League – you’ll be enchanted by its cobbled streets and the colourful wooden buildings lining the delightful quayside.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN OSLO Arrive at the airport for your flight to Oslo, where we transfer by coach to stay for three nights at the centrally located four-star Scandic Byporten Hotel, with breakfast. The spacious reception area of this purpose-built modern establishment is welcoming and bright, and includes a lobby bar with panoramic

88

windows where you can relax with a drink. The light, minimalist rooms – featuring space-saving clotheshanging poles rather than wardrobes – are simply furnished in typically Scandinavian neutral tones and provide Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibar and hairdryer.

DAY 2 – OSLO After breakfast we embark on a sightseeing tour of Oslo. Norway’s relatively small capital is a beguiling mix of old and new, featuring world-class museums, cutting-edge contemporary architecture and beautiful open spaces. We’ll see the National Gallery, which features the earlier of the two painted versions of The Scream by Norway’s celebrated Edvard Munch, plus the imposing Royal Palace, the nearby Ibsen Museum and the famed Vigeland sculpture park. We then reach the peninsula of Bygdoy and arguably Oslo’s star attraction – the Viking Ship Museum, which houses three incredibly well-preserved Viking longships that are around 1,200 years old. From here you can walk to two other fascinating sights. The Kon-Tiki Museum contains the reed and balsawood vessels used by Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl on his landmark 1947 expedition across the Pacific and later trips across other oceans. Next door is the museum dedicated to the polar exploration ship Fram, used by Roald Amundsen when he beat Captain Scott in the race to reach the South Pole.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore this charming city with the use of an Oslo Pass, which allows free entry to the city’s main museums and galleries, plus unrestricted travel on all public transport.

DAY 3 – TELEMARK Today begins with a journey west to picturesque Telemark. During the Second World War the region was renowned for the heroic actions of the Norwegian resistance and Allied bombers who together helped prevent the occupying German forces from developing the ‘heavy water’ needed for their atomic bomb-making capabilities. We visit the site of the processing plant at Rjukan that was destroyed by a team of Norwegian saboteurs in February 1943, then travel to Lake Tinnsjo. It was from here that the Germans planned to transport their remaining stocks Bergen

Cruise Norway’s breathtaking fjords

PRICE INCLUDES • Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Oslo and visit its famous Viking Ship Museum •

See the natural beauty of the Telemark region, visiting the sites of Second World War heroics and Heddal’s 13th-century wooden stave church

• Discover picturesque Bergen on a walking tour, including UNESCO-listed Bryggen •

Travel on the famous Oslo to Bergen railway line and one of the world’s steepest standard-gauge railways to Flam

• Cruise across the UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord and through the stunning open waters of the Hardangerfjord

•

Enjoy a complimentary Oslo Pass, allowing free entry to more than 30 museums and attractions, plus free travel on all local public transport

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers •

Seven nights in four-star and threestar superior accommodation, including all local taxes, with breakfast and two dinners

• Internal train journey between Bergen and Oslo plus the Flam railway • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

• Marvel at Voringfossen, Norway’s most celebrated waterfall

of processed heavy water back to Germany but the ‘Heroes of Telemark’, as they became known (you may have seen the film of the same name), sank the boat carrying the deadly cargo. We head back to Oslo through this stunning landscape via Heddal to see the country’s largest medieval wooden stave church – a spectacular 13th-century structure with multiple roofs, it looks like something from a fairy tale.

DAY 4 – BERGEN RAILWAY After breakfast we depart from Oslo on the fabled Bergen Railway. Often cited as one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, Oslo–Bergen is the highest line between any two cities in Europe, peaking at just over 4,000 feet. Passing pristine lakes and uninterrupted forests, the railway begins to climb until we’re past the tree line and on the barren Hardangervidda plateau, where patches of snow linger well into July.

Just over five hours later we arrive at the mountain resort of Voss, where we check into the historic fourstar Fleischer’s Hotel for two nights, with breakfast and dinner. This beautiful hotel dates back to the 19th century and is still owned by the fourth-generation Fleischer family. A warm welcome is assured in the reception area with its lovely wooden panelling, comfortable leather chairs and sofas. The hotel has a large terrace with delightful lake and mountain views and an indoor pool, and the rooms are classically decorated in warm tones and provide Wi-Fi, TV and minibar. This evening we dine in style in the elegant restaurant, while there’s also a cosy bar to enjoy a digestif.

DAY 5 – FLAM RAILWAY There’s a real treat in store today – a trip on the exhilarating Flam Railway. From Voss we head to Myrdal, where we change trains for Flam, a 12 1/2-mile journey that sees us descend over 2,800 feet on one of the world’s steepest and most beautiful railway lines. It’s an extraordinary feat of engineering, with 20 tunnels carved through sheer mountainsides allowing us to take in the magnificence of the perpendicular cliffs and cascading waterfalls before the stunning Aurlandsfjord comes into view. The hour-long journey ends in Flam, where we board a ferry to Gudvangen across the UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord with its jaw-dropping vistas. Back on dry land, we return to Voss by coach. This tour may operate in reverse and we first take the ferry across Naeroyfjord before boarding the train at Flam and ascending to Myrdal.

DAY 6 – VORINGFOSSEN & FJORD CRUISE We leave Voss for the pretty village of Eidfjord, which is nestled on the banks of Norway’s secondlongest fjord, Hardangerfjord – known as the ‘Queen of Fjords’. Our journey takes us across Norway’s longest suspension bridge and we continue up the valley to Voringfossen, the country’s most renowned waterfall. As it drops almost 600 feet into the sheer-sided gorge below, you may be lucky enough to see its rainbow from the viewing point that offers sensational views of this magnificent natural spectacle. Camera memory cards filled, we head back to the massive open waters of Hardangerfjord for a boat cruise past charming lakeside villages before transferring by coach to Bergen. Here we stay for two nights at the historic three-star superior Grand Hotel Terminus, with breakfast. An Art Deco hotel dating back to 1928, it’s ideally located within walking distance of Bergen’s main sights, while the rooms are distinctive and differ in size and shape, but all feature Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibar and hairdryer. The atmospheric oak-panelled bar – voted the best in Norway for whisky – offers over a thousand different labels and is an ideal place to relax with newly made friends at the end of the day.

FROM €1,549PP ‘Stave’ church at Heddal

DAY 7 – BERGEN After breakfast we take a walking tour of this beautiful coastal city. Bergen has a long fishing heritage and we’ll visit its famous fish market before strolling among the colourful wooden houses and warehouses that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bryggen. Originally built during the 14th century for German merchants trading from the city, these waterside buildings have been converted into characterful shops and restaurants that wonderfully evoke Bergen’s medieval past.

The afternoon is free at your leisure. Simply stroll around the narrow cobbled streets before perhaps sampling a plate of fresh seafood at a restaurant of your choice. Alternatively, there’s a wealth of sightseeing opportunities, including the house of Bergen’s most famous son, composer Edvard Grieg, or the opportunity of a ride on the Floibanen funicular to the summit of Floyen for breathtaking views.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to Bergen airport for your flight home.

89

K R A KOW 4 days from only €599pp

Once the home of Copernicus and Pope John Paul II, Krakow rivals Prague for sheer beauty and boasts more than 6,000 historic buildings, a magnificent main square and the stunning Wawel Royal Castle.

Set on the banks of the Vistula River near the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, beautiful Krakow ranks with Prague and Vienna as one of the architectural gems of Central Europe – in fact, its entire historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city first became prominent a thousand years ago as the royal capital of Poland and remained so for 500 years, spanning both the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Its castle, the Wawel, evolved into a sumptuous royal palace and took full advantage of its position on the ancient trade routes to the Orient and Baltic. The city’s location and the trade in salt, which was extracted on a huge scale at the nearby Wieliczka mines, brought immense wealth and Krakow experienced its golden age during the 16th century, when learning and science prospered.

Over the centuries, influence from Prussia and the cities of the Hanseatic League, and absorption within the Habsburg Empire, all made their marks on the marvellous architecture, art and culture of today’s city.

At Krakow’s heart is its magnificent medieval square, the largest in Europe, but there’s so much more – over 6,000 historic buildings and monuments, a multitude of museums, two and a half million works of art, one of Europe’s oldest universities and

90

a fascinating Jewish quarter. There are also about 140 churches, many of them stunningly decorated.

Their presence reflects the importance of the Roman Catholic religion in Poland, and Krakow in particular. In 1978, at a time when Poland was officially an atheist country, the unknown Archbishop of Krakow was elected Pope John Paul II.

The city was spared significant damage during the Second World War, so today it’s a delight to explore and offers a real glimpse into the past. Yet Krakow is far from just a collection of buildings – its atmosphere is vibrant, with the past and present beautifully intertwined. It also boasts a great cultural history, which is hardly surprising from the country of Copernicus and Chopin, and during the evening there’s nothing better than enjoying one of the numerous classical concerts held in churches and concert halls throughout the city.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN KRAKOW Arrive at the airport for your flight to Krakow. We transfer by coach to the four-star Novotel Krakow Centrum for three nights, with breakfast. Situated next to the banks of the Vistula and close to Wawel Royal Castle, this modern hotel has a bar, restaurant and fitness facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, while all rooms are air-conditioned and feature Wi-Fi, television, tea- and coffee-making facilities and safe.

DAY 2 – KRAKOW After breakfast we enjoy a guided walking tour of Krakow’s historic centre. Rynek Glowny, the medieval

Soak up the charms of wonderful Krakow

PRICE INCLUDES • Explore centuries of history on a guided walking tour of Krakow’s medieval centre • Visit Wawel, the castle district, home to one of Europe’s most striking royal residences • Discover the Wieliczka salt mines, source of the city’s wealth, on an optional tour

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Traditional Polish food tour Sample over a dozen types of traditional and authentic Polish and Krakow specialities, including Polish vodka and craft beers, with a local guide. Discover places loved by locals and explore the historic neighbourhood of Kazimierz. Your friendly guide will regale you with stories of the cultural traditions and history of the places we visit and the foods we try.

We recommend a healthy appetite for this filling 3.5-hour walking tour. €60pp.

• Take a guided tour of Auschwitz and Birkenau (included but optional)

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Three nights in excellent quality, centrally located four-star accommodation, with breakfast • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €599PP

main square, is lined with grand pastel-coloured buildings dating back centuries and always busy with locals going about their business. In the centre of the square is the Cloth Hall, a splendid colonnaded Renaissance building that’s been the centre of the textile trade since the 16th century. Today it’s full of colourful stalls selling amber jewellery and other local crafts, and also houses an art gallery.

Overlooking the square is Saint Mary’s Basilica, richly decorated with a stunning carved wooden altarpiece and a vaulted nave painted with stars. The 14th-century stained glass is particularly ornate.

When the sun shines through, a kaleidoscope of colour decorates the chancel below. Listen out for a trumpeter sounding an hourly warning from the top of the taller of the basilica’s two ornate spires – a reminder of the Mongol invasions of the 13th century.

You’ll also see the 110-foot-high Florian Gate and the other remains of the fortifications built during the early 14th century, and the Collegium Maius, the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University, whose most famous former student was the astronomer Copernicus. Later he overturned all conventional thinking by suggesting that the sun was at the centre of the solar system, not the earth – a radical theory that sparked a scientific revolution.

We visit the Wawel Royal Castle district, built on a low hill on a bend in the Vistula inhabited since the Palaeolithic period. This fortified site was the residence of the kings of Poland from 1038 until the end of the 16th century, when Warsaw became the new centre of government. The Wawel complex includes the cathedral, royal apartments, state rooms, crown treasury and armoury. Its cathedral is the final resting place of Polish monarchs and the site of the first mass – given in 1946 – by the newly ordained priest Karol Wojtyla, later to become Pope John Paul II. In the royal apartments you’ll see the impressive range of rooms that have been restored to their original Renaissance and Baroque glory, overflowing with fine furniture, works of art and one of Europe’s largest – and best – collections of tapestries. There will be free time to explore the rest of the complex, including the three-tiered Italianate Renaissance courtyard.

This afternoon there’s an opportunity to tour the famous 13th-century Wieliczka Salt Mines, a spectacular subterranean attraction adorned by statues and even a chapel, all sculpted from rock salt that looks like marble; your tour manager will advise you about timings and cost. Alternatively, you may choose to join a street food tour to sample Polish specialities and explore Krakow’s Kazimierz neighbourhood with a local guide. Please refer to the Personalise Your Holiday section for details.

DAY 3 – AUSCHWITZ & BIRKENAU We thought long and hard about how appropriate it would be to include this morning’s destination – Auschwitz and Birkenau – on a holiday itinerary. As a company, our philosophy is that we try to inform our clients about all aspects of the countries we visit from the ‘tourist must-sees’ to places of historical importance. Our guided tour to Auschwitz and Birkenau is extremely moving and thought-provoking, but it is optional and you can choose instead to stay in Krakow for the whole day.

Now a museum and monument, Auschwitz and Birkenau have been left virtually as they were when liberated in 1945. From the notorious watchtower at Birkenau you’ll get some sense of the sheer scale of the atrocities that took place here. After our tour we return to Krakow in the afternoon and the mood will lift as we have time to further explore the city’s wonderful attractions.

DAY 4 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Main Market Square, Krakow

91

M A LTA U N COV E R E D 8 days from only €1,229pp

Malta packs so much into a small space. UNESCO-listed temples, Valletta’s Baroque architecture, Roman catacombs and stunning vistas of Dwejra Bay on the island of Gozo – all wait to be discovered against a backdrop of blue skies and a famously relaxed atmosphere.

Surrounded by the azure Mediterranean and enjoying hot summers and mild winters, Malta is an idyllic year-round destination with an intriguing history. The country we know as Malta is in fact an archipelago of several islands covering about 115 square miles, with most people living on the two largest, Malta and Gozo. With Sicily to the north and Africa to the south, Malta is at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and has been a meeting place of cultures for millennia.

It has seen conquerors and civilisations come and go, and each has left distinct marks in the form of UNESCO-listed Neolithic temples, Baroque and neoclassical architecture and even the Maltese language – a fusion of Arabic, Italian, Sicilian and English. Perhaps the greatest legacy was left by the Knights of Saint John, who ruled for over 250 years from 1530 and whose eight-pointed Maltese cross is a common symbol. During this period the country was transformed, with dramatic fortifications, new settlements, myriad churches and grand palaces decorated with art by Italian and Flemish artists.

The Maltese are extraordinarily friendly – many regard themselves as being part of an extended family – and their zest for life is best seen in the many feasts held to honour saints’ days. They are famously resilient, too – the whole country was awarded the George Cross in 1942 for its wartime heroism.

Many visitors never experience all that Malta has to offer, but we have created a thoughtful itinerary that encompasses its varied history, unique scenery and atmospheric old towns.

92

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN MALTA Fly to Malta and transfer by coach to the four-star Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa, where we stay seven nights, with breakfast and dinner. The hotel is in the village of Mellieha, perched on a terraced hillside with superb views of the bay. The hotel has two restaurants, two bars and plenty of options for relaxation, including a spa (charges may apply), a lovely garden and three swimming pools, one of which

Valletta

is on the roof. The air-conditioned rooms all have satellite TV, a safe, fridge and hairdryer. The beach is just over a mile away and there’s a bus stop right by the hotel, so getting about is very convenient.

DAY 2 – VALLETTA Today we visit 16th-century Valletta for a guided walking tour. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was originally built by the Knights of Saint John after a victory against the Ottomans in the Great Siege of 1565. One of Europe’s first planned cities since Roman times, its streets are laid out in a grid pattern. A fortress as well as a city, it’s set on a magnificent natural harbour and much of the old city remains intact. At its heart is Saint John’s CoCathedral, a Baroque gem with an intricate marble floor, a ceiling covered in gold leaf and fine paintings on the walls, including Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St John the Baptist, as well as 17th-century Flemish tapestries.

We also visit the Malta Experience, which tells the story of the island using the latest audiovisual techniques. In the afternoon you may want to see the National Museum of Archaeology, the Grand Master’s Palace or the National War Museum at Fort Saint Elmo, which houses a replica of the island’s George Cross. Valletta has a typical Mediterranean feel, with quiet squares lined with restaurants, honey-coloured houses with wrought-iron balconies bedecked with geraniums, and everywhere the constant chatter of the locals as they go about their business.

Explore the beautiful Grand Harbour

PRICE INCLUDES • Discover historic Valletta, Malta’s capital and city of the Knights of Saint John, on a guided tour • Find out about the country’s fascinating history on a visit to the Malta Experience • Admire unspoiled scenery on a tour of tranquil Gozo, the Maltese archipelago’s second island • See the UNESCO-listed Neolithic temples of Ggantija and Hagar Qim • Explore Mdina, one of Europe’s finest walled towns, and the catacombs of nearby Rabat • Visit the Rotunda of Mosta, a church that miraculously survived bombing during the Second World War • Visit the picturesque fishing port of Marsaxlokk

Plus, of course...

• Return flights with hotel transfers • Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,229PP DAY 3 – GOZO Gozo is just a short ferry ride away, and today we explore this sleepy island and its capital, Victoria (also known as Rabat). It’s a charming medieval town with a relaxed pace of life, twisting streets, superbly preserved battlements and the Citadel, which rises above the surrounding countryside and is visible from most of the island.

Gozo’s countryside is gorgeous too, with terraced fields and fragrant patchworks of wildflowers and thyme. A drive to the coast takes us to Dwejra Bay, where dramatic coastal formations surround an inland sea and sheer cliffs plunge into deep blue waters. It’s easy to picture the magnificent Azure Window that once stood here – the limestone arch, which had been used as a spectacular backdrop in Game of Thrones, collapsed during a storm in early 2017.

We then visit the largest and best preserved of the island’s prehistoric temple sites, Ggantija, dating from around 3600 to 3200 BC, making it even older than the Pyramids and Stonehenge. Some of the stones weigh over 50 tons and stand 20 feet tall, and legend says the temples were built in a day and a night by a giantess!

www.heritagemalta.org. Should you wish to pre-book, Sunday will always be a free day, except for tours that depart on a Saturday or Sunday, in which case Friday is a free day.

DAY 5 – RABAT & MDINA After a short drive to Rabat we walk through the town’s beautiful medieval streets to Saint Paul’s Catacombs, the earliest archaeological evidence of Christianity in Malta. The site comprises a maze of early Christian burial chambers dating from the 4th century, complete with over a thousand tombs.

We then visit the Wignacourt Museum, formerly the Baroque residence of the Chaplains of the Knights of Saint John and now a museum with a superb collection of paintings and sculptures. From here you can walk through an underground passage to Saint Paul’s Grotto, where the apostle was believed to have stayed after he was shipwrecked. Nearby are the Roman catacombs, a labyrinth of tombs from the 3rd century. Beneath these are wartime shelters that provided a refuge for the people of Rabat and the rest of the island during the many air raids of the Second World War. Next we head to beautiful Mdina, one of the finest ancient walled cities in Europe. Perched on a hill and surrounded by imposing fortifications, its narrow streets contain an extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque buildings. We have time for lunch before visiting the Rotunda of Mosta, a church with the third largest dome in the world. It was the site of a modern ‘miracle’ when, in 1942, a bomb struck the church during Mass but failed to explode – no wonder the congregation felt blessed.

DAY 6 – FREE DAY Today is another free day to enjoy as you wish. Malta’s seafood is exceptional, so maybe a spot of shopping followed a leisurely lunch of the ‘catch of the day’ at a restaurant overlooking the sea?

DAY 7 – THE BLUE GROTTO & NEOLITHIC TEMPLES This morning we drive to Malta’s rugged coast where you can view the Blue Grotto. The combination of sunlight and location creates a wonderful natural display as the caves mirror the phosphorescent colours of the sea and underwater flora. We continue to Hagar Qim, a UNESCO-listed megalithic temple situated on a hilltop overlooking the sea. One of the chambers has an elliptical hole hewn from the limestone to align with the sunrise on the summer solstice, so the sun’s rays pass through and illuminate a stone slab inside.

We stop at the pretty port of Marsaxlokk, where fishermen have landed their catches and repaired nets on its picturesque quayside for centuries. Its restaurants and cafés are ideal places to relax as you gaze out over the harbour filled with the traditional brightly coloured fishing boats called luzzus. Later we visit Città Vittoriosa and enjoy a short walking tour of the fortified city named to commemorate the Great Siege of 1565.

DAY 8 – RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

The Blue Grotto

DAY 4 – FREE DAY A free day to spend as you wish – you may choose to relax at your hotel, but there’s also much to explore locally. An attraction we recommend (but can’t organise for you) is the Hypogeum, an underground temple and series of burial chambers dating from 4000 to 2500 BC. It’s just south of Valletta, but spaces are limited and need to be pre-booked well in advance at

93

D I SCOV E R NORTHERN CYPRUS 8 days from only €1,189pp

Shaped by powerful legacies of East and West, Northern Cyprus is both a living museum and a cultural gem. Everywhere you explore echoes with history –ancient ruins, romantic towns, bustling bazaars, rugged coastlines and fascinating Nicosia.

Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus has a rich and complex heritage that makes it unique. According to legend, it’s also the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, and for centuries this beautiful Mediterranean island has seduced travellers with the promise of endless summers, idyllic beaches and romantic harbours.

Successive invaders have left their own influences, which can be experienced in melting-pot towns and villages and some of the world’s most important archaeological sites.

The first settlers arrived around 7,000 BC, followed by waves of Mycenaean Greeks. Next came raids by the Assyrians, Egyptians and Persians before Roman rule brought peace and prosperity. In the 4th century Cyprus became part of the Byzantine Empire, and then in 1191 it was conquered by Richard the Lionheart. Over the next centuries the island fell under Venetian, Ottoman and British rule until, at last, independence was granted in 1960. However, the nation was divided – Greek Cypriots wanted a union with Greece while Turkish Cypriots pushed for a Turkish state. This led to the formation of the Turkish

94

Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The Green Line, set up by the UN to keep the peace, still divides the island, but relations between both sides have vastly improved, making travel between north and south is easier.

On this fascinating tour we discover why northern Cyprus is such an irresistible destination. Dominated by the impressive Kyrenia Mountains keeping watch over the pristine coastal strip, it’s dotted with lovely seaside towns and drenched in history. We stay in the ancient town of Kyrenia, one of the kingdoms of Cyprus during the Classical Greek period.

We head northwest to Guzelyurt, an area less frequented by visitors but unmissable thanks to the many sites of interest found there, including the ancient Greek city of Soli and the mysterious Palace of Vouni. Nothing prepares you for the sheer scale of the ruins here. Further inland stretches the island’s main mountain range, the Troodos Massif, and at the foothills lies the university town of Lefke, where you’ll see the legacy of its past rulers.

The fortress of Saint Hilarion, perched atop a craggy peak with incredible views, is another highlight

and is said to be the inspiration for other fairy-tale castles in Europe. We also enjoy a drive to Bellapais village, treasured for the beautifully preserved ruins of the medieval ‘Abbey of Peace’.

To understand how the past still influences Cypriots today we visit bustling Nicosia, the last divided capital city in the world after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The northern half, Lefkosha, is occupied by the TRNC while the southern half, Lefkosia, is the capital of the Republic of Cyprus. You’ll have the opportunity to cross the Green Line and experience the intriguing cultural differences between the northern and southern sides.

Then we head east to Famagusta, the atmospheric old town with the deepest harbour on the island, surrounded by 15th-century Venetian walls. Exotic goods from the Silk Road once passed through here on their way to Western Europe. You’ll also see the ghost town of Varosha, left as it was when abandoned in 1974, as well as ancient Salamis, a stunning archaeological site.

Cypriot cuisine is similar to that of both Greece and Turkey, but with a number of regional specialities such

See Bellapais village with the remains of its Gothic abbey

PRICE INCLUDES • Discover Salamis, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Mediterranean • Experience the delights of Kyrenia on a guided tour, and visit its striking castle

cross the border to experience the Greek south •

Get to know charming Famagusta, where modern restaurants and shops weave through medieval ruins, on a walking tour with a local guide

• Explore fascinating Guzelyurt and the Palace of Vouni, a former Phoenician stronghold

• Enjoy the glorious scenery that has enchanted travellers for centuries

• Explore the ancient city of Soli to find out what life was like in Roman and early Byzantine times

• Return flights from Belfast with hotel transfers

•

Visit Saint Hilarion Castle with its breathtaking views and lovely Bellapais village, made famous by the author Lawrence Durrell

• Learn about Nicosia on our guided tour of the last divided capital in the world – explore the Turkish north or

DAY 2 – KYRENIA Kyrenia is blessed with the most attractive harbour in Cyprus and it nestles against a series of majestic mountains bringing cooler air and encouraging green landscapes. The town underwent a renaissance during British rule, as roads were built and the port was developed. Our experienced local guide takes you on a fascinating walking tour here, visiting the charming Old Town, harbour and Belediye Meydani – the town hall square – as well as imparting that all-important local knowledge. Another highlight is the splendid honey-coloured 8th-century castle built by the Byzantines, possibly on the site of an earlier Roman fort, and later strengthened by the Lusignans and the Venetians. You can also visit the castle museum, which houses an interesting range of archaeological finds and an impressive 2,300-year-old

Plus, of course...

• Seven nights in four-star superior accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and four dinners • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,189PP shipwreck – one of the oldest doomed ships to ever to be recovered.

The afternoon is free for you to relax or further explore Kyrenia. Why not visit the main mosque, the Agha Cafer Pasha Camii? The distinctive minaret of this 16th-century structure is visible from wherever you are in the harbour area. Or simply spend a peaceful day contemplating the history of this remarkable place while strolling along the waterfront.

DAY 3 – GUZELYURT, SOLI & THE PALACE OF VOUNI We head northwest, passing sleepy villages and unspoilt countryside to the ‘fruit basket of Cyprus’, Guzelyurt. It’s nestled in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, the massive block of igneous rock that rose many millions of years ago like some ancient Kyrenia

as kofte – crispy meatballs flavoured with mint – or a delicious dessert of fresh walnuts in lemon syrup.

The island’s history of winemaking means you’ll find a fantastic selection of local wines – another surprising aspect of this ancient, cultured and welcoming isle.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN CYPRUS Take a direct flight to Paphos, depending on your departure airport. On arrival we transfer by coach to Kyrenia and your hotel for the next seven nights, the four-star superior Arkin Colony. Centrally located between the Old Town and the harbour in a classic colonial-style building, the hotel has wellappointed rooms with all the facilities you would expect. The rooftop pool offers views of the sea and the mountains across Kyrenia, while treatments can be enjoyed at the spa (payable locally). In addition, the hotel has a choice of two restaurants and two bars. The four included evening meals will be taken in the main restaurant, with a choice of traditional specialities and international dishes. The outdoor pool is open all year round, subject to weather conditions, and is unheated.

95

god from the sea, following a volcanic eruption. Here a remarkable variety of trees bearing soft fruits, citrus and nuts flourish in abundance. There are astonishingly preserved ancient churches, such as the Agios Mamas Church and Monastery built on the site of a temple dedicated to Aphrodite. Important artefacts can be found in the Museum of Archaeology and Natural History, including examples from the Neolithic period and Bronze Age. On an island rich with history the ancient city of Soli is especially impressive, granting revealing insights into late Roman and early Byzantine times.

Dating back to the 6th century BC, it was one of the most important ancient Greek kingdoms of Cyprus and has vital significance for Christianity as the place where Saint Mark was baptised. Only part of the site has been excavated but already there is so much to discover – the ruins of the Roman theatre, a nymphaeum, the temple of Aphrodite, a palace, a necropolis, and a great basilica with marvellous 4th-century mosaics. Gold jewellery was recently unearthed from the tombs here and can be seen in the archaeological museum in Guzelyurt.

Next we take in the extraordinary remains of the Palace of Vouni, set in an idyllic location with splendid views of the shimmering Mediterranean. Its origins are shrouded in mystery but archaeologists have deduced that it was built around 500 BC. Thanks to the merging here of Persian and Greek influences, the historical significance of the palace can’t be overstated and, standing among the ruins looking out across the nearby city of Soli to the sea beyond, it’s easy to see why it was once such a vital stronghold.

The historic town of Lefke, located next to the Green Line, awaits us later. First inhabited during the Neolithic period, the legacy of previous rulers can be seen in its buildings, some of which date back to the 7th century. The delightful town – named for the Greek word for ‘poplar’ – is also known for its university, copper mines and plentiful Jaffa orange groves. Take a moment to sample the citrus fruits the town is famous for and enjoy the lush surrounding landscapes.

DAY 4 – SAINT HILARION & BELLAPAIS Today we succumb to the romance of two storybook highlights. First we visit Saint Hilarion Castle, long thought to be the inspiration for two other iconic castles – Neuschwanstein in Bavaria and Snow White’s castle in Disneyland! The castle was named after a monk, but this hasn’t stopped the locals attributing more fanciful stories to it, tales that

Kyrenia castle

include devious sorceresses and enchanted gardens.

It’s not hard to see why – the crumbling edifice seems to emerge from the very rocks, as though it was summoned rather than built. Entrance to the castle is included with the tour but, if you choose not to ascend the steep steps, the breathtaking views can still be enjoyed from the easily accessible viewpoint at the entrance or from the castle’s café.

Bellapais is the next highlight, the captivating village immortalised in Lawrence Durrell’s autobiographical book Bitter Lemons. It’s sheer pleasure wandering through the tangle of narrow lanes past flower-bedecked buildings up the hill, where you’ll find outstanding views of Kyrenia harbour and the cerulean sea. The gem of the village is its medieval ‘Abbey of Peace’. This monastery once offered shelter to Augustinian monks expelled when Jerusalem fell to Saladin, and walking the ruins is an absorbing journey through ancient times. The abbey’s Gothic refectory serves as a memorable venue for concerts and lectures.

After a lovely day exploring, we return to Kyrenia mid-afternoon, with plenty of time to relax at our hotel.

DAY 5 – NICOSIA Today our destination is the world’s last divided capital, Nicosia, known as the kingdom of Ledra in the 7th century BC. We enjoy a guided tour of the Old Town, seeing the impressive Venetian city walls – Nicosia was a walled city for more than a millennium

– and the superbly preserved Kyrenia Gate, adorned with inscriptions left by past rulers. You can also discover the main square, root out a bargain in the colourful Bandabuliya Covered Bazaar and admire the staggering Venetian column, transported from the ruins of Salamis. For many, the highlight will be the enormous Selimiye Mosque, visible from both sides of the capital with its honey-coloured minarets piercing the blue sky. If it looks remarkably like a church, it’s because it was formerly Saint Sophia, a 13th-century Roman Catholic cathedral, before the Ottoman invasion introduced the twin minarets.

You can choose to explore more of the north – perhaps visit Buyuk Han, the great 16th-century inn that was once used by the British as a prison and now houses a vibrant collection of shops and cafés showcasing the vibrant modern culture of Cyprus.

Another option is to cross the Green Line into south Nicosia with passports in hand and experience a different side of the city. Visit the world-class Cyprus Museum, by far the best on the island and a real trove of archaeological treasures. Or head to the 11-storey Shacolas Tower, the tallest building in south Nicosia; once used to peer over the Buffer Zone into the north, today it serves as an observatory so that all visitors can enjoy the extraordinary views of the city.

DAY 6 – FREE DAY You’ve a full day at leisure, and Kyrenia is the perfect place to explore as your feet take you. Why not take a stroll through town or a boat ride from the harbour? Perhaps go shopping at the Bandabuliya for a selection of local crafts, from textiles to pottery and jewellery. If you prefer to relax, take a refreshing swim in the hotel’s rooftop pool or indulge in some pampering at the spa.

Salamis

96

DAY 7 – SAINT BARNABAS, SALAMIS & FAMAGUSTA This morning we travel to the east coast, first visiting the Monastery of Saint Barnabas, once one of the most prominent Christian sites on the island. Today it

houses religious icons and an archaeological museum, with an exquisite collection of pottery dating from Neolithic times. There’s also a mausoleum said to house the tomb of Saint Barnabas, one of the great figures of early Christianity and a founder of the Cypriot Church.

We continue our journey, passing numerous relics from the past including the magnificent Royal Tombs of the Kings from the 7th century BC, before arriving at ancient Salamis. This spectacular spot is one of the Mediterranean’s most significant archaeological sites, bolstered by its scenic beachside setting. During Classical Greek and Roman times Salamis was a chief cultural centre, as well as the richest and most important city on the island for over a thousand years. You can still see the original amphitheatre, the gymnasium – built over earlier ruins during Emperor Hadrian’s rule – the Roman baths and wonderful mosaics. Even after a century of careful excavation, there are still many secrets waiting to be unearthed here.

Next we visit the charming town of Famagusta and enjoy a walking tour with our expert guide, taking in the massive Othello’s Tower – built in the 14th century, it was once known as the ‘impenetrable fortress’ and, it is said, provides the setting for Shakespeare’s play. We also see the ruins of the Venetian palace and the impressive city walls where British officers in the 1930s played golf along the ramparts! The town’s dominant landmark is the 14th-century Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, originally a church modelled on the cathedral at Reims in France.

As you thread your way between the photogenic remains of ruined churches, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to pause at. Nearby is Varosha, once a lively resort dubbed the ‘Monte Carlo of the Middle East’ and frequented by celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, but abandoned during the war in 1974.

Although it’s a shadow of its former self, the eerie ‘modern’ ruins left behind are worth seeing to gain a better understanding of the island’s recent history.

Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque

DAY 8 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

St Hilarion Castle

97

NEW

J O RDAN & PETRA 7 days from only €1,889pp

Discover the ‘Rose-red City’ of Petra, bob in the Dead Sea, marvel at the desert’s vastness in Wadi Rum and experience Jordan’s renowned hospitality.

Jordan is a remarkable country, with extraordinary landscapes of red-hued dunes and windswept sandstone, and world-class monuments that include Roman amphitheatres and Crusader castles. From Moses to Alexander the Great, Saladin and our own Lawrence of Arabia, all have left outstanding legacies.

Combined with the legendary ancient city of Petra, you’ll have a captivating and unforgettable tour.

There’s so much to see in this wondrous corner of the world, so why not extend your stay with three more nights in Jerusalem, an unmissable experience.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN AMMAN Fly to Amman and transfer by coach to the vibrant Shmeisani area of the city, where we stay for one night at the four-star AlQasr Metropole Hotel, with breakfast.

god-like’. The magnificent cliffs and stone buttresses rise sheer from the sea of red sand, together forming a timeless panorama of monolithic rocks. The twisted huge bulk of this network of canyons, rock bridges and ravines is one of the world’s most stunning desert environments. Quite apart from the visual experience – the silence is almost unnerving; bizarrely you cannot hear anything at all. After transferring to 4x4 vehicles, we tour the canyons and valleys before arriving at the Wadi Rum Space Village, a Bedouin-style tented camp.

This afternoon, you have the opportunity to experience an optional camel ride in the desert before enjoying a traditional ‘zarb’ dinner – a delicious barbecue cooked for hours under the hot desert sand.

All tents have twin or double beds with private shower and WC.

DAY 2 – WADI RUM We set off early to make the most of the day, travelling south along the Desert Highway through the sandy heart of Jordan to Wadi Rum – the ‘Valley of the Moon’. Nothing prepares you for the aweinspiring sight that greets us: the sandstone massif that TE Lawrence described as ‘vast, echoing and

DAY 3 – LITTLE PETRA First, we see where vast caravans, some with over a thousand camels, gathered for their epic journeys, exploring the mysterious rock-carved rooms of ancient ‘hotels’ in the area, known as Little Petra. We stay two nights, with breakfast and dinner, at the four-star Old Village Hotel & Resort.

98

Jerash

Petra

PRICE INCLUDES •

•

•

•

•

Guided tour of the amazing ‘Rose-Red City’ of Petra, fabled trading centre for thousands of years and one of the new ‘Wonders of the World’ Enjoy the unique experience of staying overnight in the heart of the Wadi Rum desert and see the staggering ‘Seven Pillars’ rock formation, made famous by ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ Stay by the shores of the remarkable Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth Discover Jerash, the remarkably preserved ancient Roman city, with a local guide Visit the biblical site of Mount Nebo, where Moses saw the Promised Land

Plus, of course...

•

•

•

Return flights via London Heathrow, with hotel transfers Six nights in four-star accommodation, with breakfast and dinner daily The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €1,889PP DAY 5 – KING’S HIGHWAY & MOUNT NEBO Heading north towards the Dead Sea we travel on the scenic King’s Highway, following an ancient caravan route. It passes through some of Jordan’s most spectacular scenery with views across arid, rocky peaks. We visit the Crusader castle at Shobak, one of the region’s best-preserved forts, before continuing to Mount Nebo, where Moses first saw the Promised

DAY 4 – PETRA Along with the Taj Mahal and the Pyramids, Petra is one of the world’s ‘must-see’ sights, firmly deserving of its accolade as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Famous throughout history, its huge wealth was amassed from its time as the centre of the ancient caravan routes, which traded as far as China and rivalled that of the Romans. A city to match was created, with sophisticated public buildings and libraries, lavish houses, colonnaded streets, and astonishing villas carved from solid rock.

We walk down the increasingly narrow gorge and, just as you think the vertiginous sides could not get any narrower, the incredible vista of the Treasury appears like a mirage through a slit in the rock. The perfection of its proportions and the sheer vastness of this edifice are astounding. Beyond, there’s an entire city waiting to be discovered: the amazing Royal Tombs, the theatre, the Street of the Facades, the Great Temple, early-Christian churches, and the main colonnaded road that ran through the centre of this ancient but tremendously cultured city.

The afternoon is at leisure, so you may wish to return to your hotel and enjoy its facilities or remain at the site to continue exploring.

Dead Sea

Land. According to Jewish and Christian tradition, the climb was so arduous that this remains his final resting place, leaving Joshua to lead his people over the River Jordan. We also visit nearby Madaba, where St George’s Church houses a superbly intricate, 6thcentury mosaic map of the Holy Land.

We stay for two nights at the four-star Holiday Inn Dead Sea, with breakfast and dinner, 400 metres below sea level. It has several swimming pools, spacious air-conditioned rooms, as well as a small beach. You must take a dip in the Dead Sea, it’s one of life’s ‘must-do’ experiences. Due to the salt content being 30 per cent, compared with normal seawater at 3 per cent, you float so easily. You cannot actually swim, but bob around like a cork and even while wading, you physically have to push your feet to the bottom to stand up!

DAY 6 – JERASH & AJLOUN CASTLE Ancient Jerash is the largest and best-preserved Roman city in the region, known as the Pompeii of the east. Its beautifully colonnaded main street and forum, the hippodrome, baths and theatre are a superb example of Roman town planning on a truly grand scale. The 12th-century Saracen Ajloun Castle was originally built on the site of a Christian monastery and commands panoramic views over the surrounding hills.

DAY 7 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to Amman airport for your return flight.

Wadi Rum

99

SOUTH AFRICA 16 days from only €2,629pp

A ‘world in one country’ is no exaggeration - incredible game viewing, a vast patchwork of different cultures, scenery and history coupled with superb food and wine make for a world-class destination.

South Africans call their homeland ‘a world in one country’. It covers an area equivalent to five times the size of Britain, with a climate ranging from temperate, Mediterranean and sub-tropical to desert; it offers spectacular scenery with arguably the finest wildlife on earth and no less than eleven official languages.

South Africa is truly a world-class destination!

Firstly, a more naturally beautiful country would be difficult to find - from the serrated peaks of the Drakensberg mountains, to the contorted and timeless semi-desert landscapes of the Karoo and the forested sea-shores and mirror-like lakes of the Garden Route, the enchanting temperate valleys of the Winelands, the rare proximity to nature found in the national parks and the instantly recognizable symbol of the country, Table Mountain - all under an endless azure-blue sky. Quite remarkable!

Then there is the wildlife, one of the main reasons visitors travel to Africa. One of the finest places in the world to experience this is the Kruger National Park, which is a similar size to Wales. It is exactly how you imagine the African bush to be, as depicted on countless TV documentaries: areas of sweeping savannah, bisected by rivers full of hippos, muddy waterholes lined with animals quenching their thirst, and the bush itself, home to

100

zebra and antelope, studded by immense biscuitcoloured termite mounds and towering above it all, instantly recognisable giraffes! The park is home to an incredible 150 mammals and 500 bird species including the ‘big five’: elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo. Game-viewing is an intensely moving experience with nothing preparing you for the waves of emotion inspired by an encounter with these wonderful, almost regal creatures thriving in their natural habitat. Just to highlight the variety of flora too, the Cape Peninsula alone has twice as many plant varieties as Britain, which is 5,000 times bigger. But South Africa is not just about scenery and wildlife, fabulous as it is.

The cities are amazing and highlight the country’s diversity. Brash Johannesburg, city of gold and South Africa’s cultural capital, with skyscrapers of concrete and glass separated by canyon-like streets contrasting with townships on its outskirts.

Then there is the ‘Mother City’, Cape Town, overlooked by the vast bulk of Table Mountain and easily Africa’s most beautiful and sophisticated city. It is a real multi-cultural melting pot, with stunning Cape architecture, superb beaches, the best cuisine in the country, fabulous street musicians, mime artists and entertainers adding to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Any country is shaped by its past - South Africa more than most with its recent history a constant struggle between the British, Afrikaners, and various indigenous peoples, the Zulus being the most well-known. The British annexed the Cape from the Dutch during the 18th century, who then set out inland founding the Orange Free State and the Transvaal. However, with the discovery of the world’s largest gold deposits, British interest flourished! This culminated in the Boer War and unification of the country. We all inevitably associate South Africa with the inhumanities of the old Apartheid system, which needs no explanation.

Our visit to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg takes us on a fascinating, horrifying, humbling and ultimately inspiring journey from the dark days of ‘whites only’ privilege, through to Nelson Mandela’s historic release. Documentary film, texts, sound clips and live accounts recapture life in the old South Africa.

We also visit the famous battlefields of the Zulu Wars, Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift – one a crushing British defeat sending shock waves throughout the Empire, the other a valiant stand of just 140 against 4,000 Zulus. Few tours visit these remarkable sites, a vital and deeply moving part of South Africa’s unique heritage.

Relax in beautiful Cape Town, overlooked by Table Mountain

PRICE INCLUDES • Tour the legendary Zulu War battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift with a specialist guide • Full-day guided safari in the Kruger National Park, one of the world’s most outstanding game reserves • Stay in the heart of the gorgeous Western Cape’s Winelands, enjoying a cellar tour and tasting at a 300-year old wine estate • Stay three nights in cosmopolitan Cape Town, one of the world’s most naturally beautiful cities, dominated by the instantly recognisable Table Mountain • Explore legendary Cape of Good Hope and Cape Town’s Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens • Visit Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum, a real must in understanding contemporary South Africa

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Stay overnight in a tented camp During your stay in Kruger National Park, why not spend a night in a classic tented camp? You’ll also experience a relaxing yet exhilarating bush walk, led by a knowledgeable ranger who will introduce you to the bush’s natural wonders. It’s one of the best ways to explore the African wilderness.

From €279pp (subject to availability).

The Garden Route in the Western Cape is legendary. With a mild climate and facing the southern Indian Ocean, this unique region encompasses beautiful coastal and mountain scenery. Depending on the time of year, we’ll have the opportunity to travel to the beautiful seaside resort of Hermanus, the best place for on-shore whale watching. We also spend a most enjoyable few days surrounded by the seemingly never-ending rows of vines in fertile valleys, backed by the lofty mountains of the enchanting Winelands.

This wonderful 16-day tour is designed to highlight South Africa’s truly amazing diversity of cultures, its curious blend of old and new, and its phenomenal scenery and wildlife. You leave with the feeling that the new South Africa, open to the world after years of isolation, is a land of superlatives which cannot fail to impress the welcome visitor!

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE Fly to Johannesburg via London Heathrow.

DAY 2 - ARRIVAL IN JOHANNESBURG After our morning arrival, we transfer to the four-star Indaba Hotel in a prosperous suburb, north of the city. On the way to our hotel we take the opportunity to visit the Apartheid Museum, a truly fascinating exhibition charting the apartheid years and the struggle against it, culminating in the first democratic elections. It is a superbly presented walk through contemporary history using original material, riveting eyewitness accounts, photographs and film. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities.

DAY 3 - PANORAMA ROUTE After breakfast we depart for the open spaces and farmlands of the Highveld, following the Panorama Route to Kruger National Park, one of the most scenic drives in South Africa. We follow the spectacular rim of the Blyde River Canyon, an amazing 20-mile long and 2,300- foot deep gorge cutting a vast swathe through the Great Escarpment separating

•

•

•

•

•

Gaze at the awe-inspiring Blyde River canyon, the third largest in the world Follow the enchanted Garden Route, one of South Africa’s greatest drives Visit Hermanus for the world’s finest on-shore whale watching, dependent on season Enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful small country of Swaziland Take an internal flight to the stunning Garden Route

Plus, of course...

• Return scheduled flights via London Heathrow • Stay in hand-picked four-star and three-star hotels with daily breakfast, two lunches and three dinners • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €2,629PP the temperate grasslands of the highveld and the drier savannah beyond. Deep circular rock formations created by years of erosion and many excellent vantage points offer superb photo opportunities for some of the most breathtaking views in Africa. Our hotel for the next three nights is the three-star superior Hippo Hollow Country Estate, beautifully located in the midst of lush forest on the banks of the Sabie River on the edge of the National Park. It has lovely gardens, two pools, a very cosy bar, an excellent restaurant and an open-air terrace overlooking the grounds and river where you can actually watch the hippos! A more relaxing spot would be difficult to find.

Dinner is included tonight.

DAY 4 - KRUGER GAME DRIVE Today we have a full day’s game drive in specially adapted 10 seat 4x4 vehicles. There is simply nothing to beat that rising feeling of anticipation and excitement as we enter the nearby park in the half-light of the spectacular African dawn, surrounded by the noise of a unique ‘dawn chorus’. Which animal shall we spot first? Perhaps an elephant, a family of warthogs or possibly even the elusive cheetah. The experienced game rangers know the best tracks and waterholes whilst their stories will amuse, inform and fascinate you. Most have lived here all their lives, accumulating a vast wealth of knowledge. One minute they can be talking about the constituents of elephant dung and the next about the mating behaviour of hippos or the latest UK football scores!

DAY 5 - KRUGER FREE DAY This is a day at leisure for anyone who just wants to take it easy by one of the pools at the hotel or do some hippo-spotting from the lovely lawn overlooking the river. Alternatively, you could try some elephant interaction, exciting microlight flights or even river rafting (all subject to weather conditions), as well as sunset safaris or night safaris where you can experience the unique thrill of an open 4x4 vehicle game drive by spotlight.

Exclusively for Riviera Travel guests, there are also

101

a limited number of places available to stay the night at a tented camp and go on a bushwalk. Our camp provides a ‘glamping’ experience with comfortable beds, electricity and en-suite shower with WC. Our chef will create excellent wholesome cuisine and you can listen out for any nocturnal visitors whilst sitting around the campfire! You rejoin the main tour on the morning of day 6.

Isandlwana

DAY 6 - SWAZILAND & KWAZULU NATAL Today we leave Kruger on our way to the battlefields of Zululand. After breakfast we’ll drive south, entering the small but scenically beautiful country of Swaziland. As the road climbs past the interestingly named Piggs Peak we descend through lush green fields and rolling hills interspersed with small farms and drive through the country’s small capital Mbabane, passing the parliament house and Royal Palace en route. We cross back into South Africa in the afternoon and enter Kwazulu Natal province, staying at the simple three-star Battlefields Lodge for two nights on bed and breakfast basis.

DAY 7 - ISANDLWANA & RORKE’S DRIFT After breakfast we visit the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Brilliantly dramatised in the films Zulu Dawn and Zulu, these two battles, just a day apart, became a defining moment for the British Empire. In 1879 at Isandlwana, a depleted force of 1,300 were surprised and outmanoeuvred by a 20,000-strong Zulu army armed with cowhide shields and spears. Only a handful survived. The next day just 9 miles away, about 140 British soldiers, some wounded, held off 4,000 Zulus for over ten hours at Rorke’s Drift, an action earning eleven Victoria Crosses, the largest number ever awarded in a single engagement. Isandlwana particularly, remains a haunting and lonely place, with mass graves marked by simple white stones. Our specialist Zulu guide will really make those desperate encounters come alive.

We return to our hotel in the afternoon. Lunch is included today.

DAY 8 – MOSSEL BAY After breakfast we return to Johannesburg airport, flying to George in the Western Cape and at the heart of the gorgeous Garden Route. We take the short drive to the coastal town of Mossel Bay and our hotel, Winelands

102

the charming three-star superior Diaz Hotel & Resort with breakfast. The comfortable rooms all boast excellent sea views. Dinner at a local restaurant is included this evening.

DAY 9 – CANGO CAVES & OUDTSHOORN Today we head inland, through stunning mountain scenery of the Ruitersbos Nature Reserve to the foot of the Swartberg Mountains. Here we’ll visit the spectacular Cango Caves, formed over millions of years in the soft limestone and South Africa’s best-known caves. Next we head to the small town

of Oudtshoorn, a centre of ostrich farming since the 19th century. We’ll have the opportunity to see these fascinating creatures close up and learn about their habits. After an included lunch, we head back to Mossel Bay. DAY 10 - HERMANUS This morning, we take the long scenic drive to the Cape’s beautiful Winelands before continuing to Hermanus, a lovely town that’s also the world’s best spot for on-shore whale watching, usually between July and November. These gentle giants move in

Blyde River Canyon

seemingly permanent slow motion and are a truly amazing sight as they playfully cavort in the water.

You arrive in the Winelands by late afternoon, staying two nights on bed-and-breakfast at the excellent four-star Devon Valley Hotel, which is a real find.

This little property is set on the valley slopes offering breathtaking views, lush gardens, a relaxing shady terrace, a comfortable bar with dark leather armchairs, fireplace and a wide selection of single malt whiskeys.

Bay. We continue along the breathtakingly scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, full of rugged seascapes, to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, then on to Cape Point itself. We see the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean currents and the treacherous promontory of rocks and swells, the scourge of mariners for centuries.

Finally we visit Boulders Beach and its penguin colony, returning to the city during the afternoon.

DAY 11 - WINELANDS Today we tour the awesomely beautiful Winelands.

Set in a valley backed by majestic mountains, rows of manicured vines and orchards stretch into a distance studded by lime-washed, often thatched, 300-year-old wineries built in the unique Cape Dutch style, seemingly mirroring the undulations of the surrounding countryside. Our first stop is elegant Stellenbosch, established 300 years ago and home of South Africa’s most prestigious university. Period buildings and historic streets reinforce the town’s dignified atmosphere. We have time to explore this delightful town before enjoying a fascinating cellar tour and tasting at the award-winning Neethlingshof Wine Estate. After that, we visit the small town of Franschoek, set at the head of a valley. Tonight we’ll enjoy an included typical South African BBQ or Cape Malay buffet dinner at our hotel.

DAY 14 - FREE DAY IN CAPE TOWN Cape Town, featuring British, Dutch and Cape Malay influences, is simply one of the world’s most naturally beautiful cities with so much to offer the visitor! You could do some bargain shopping at the Waterfront, followed by a sumptuous seafood lunch. Or maybe go people-watching at fashionable Camps Bay? Obviously no visit to Cape Town is complete without taking a revolving cable car ride to the top of iconic Table Mountain which has announced the city to generations of sea-farers. The views are fabulous. You should also visit Robben Island (weather permitting and based on availability), where Nelson Mandela spent most of his 27-year incarceration, and whose visitors since its opening have included Bill Clinton, Margaret Thatcher, Bill Gates and even Nelson Mandela himself. Perhaps though, simply wander where your feet take you, or relax a little, taking afternoon tea in beautiful colonial splendour at the Mount Nelson hotel – the choice is yours.

DAY 12 - CAPE TOWN This morning we visit the amazing Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, located just outside Cape Town and set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain.

These incredible gardens are some of the best in South Africa, with numerous fascinating endemic flora and orchid varieties. We soon arrive in Cape Town and our hotel, the four-star Southern Sun Waterfront Hotel, staying three nights on bed and breakfast.

It is located right in the centre of this bustling city

within walking distance of the V&A waterfront. The afternoon is spent at leisure when you can start to explore this beautiful city.

DAY 13 - CAPE OF GOOD HOPE This morning, we visit Cape Point and the legendary Cape of Good Hope, firstly driving past pristine beaches to the picturesque fishing harbour of Hout

DAY 15 - RETURN FLIGHT Our final day in Cape Town is at leisure before a transfer to the airport, at the appropriate time, for our return flight via Johannesburg to the UK. DAY 16 - ARRIVE HOME We arrive back in Dublin via London after a unique tour.

103

DEEP SOUTH USA PLUS TEXAS 14 days from only €2,799pp

Experience the unique culture, history, music of America’s Deep South, home of the blues, plus the charms and classic images of the lone star state, Texas.

Take one of America’s classic ‘road trips’ exploring the Deep South, renowned for its gracious hospitality, its charming southern drawl, its unique Creole and Cajun cuisine and, of course, the most popular music genres of the 20th century – jazz, rock n’ roll, the blues and country.

Flying into Atlanta, Georgia, site of the 1996 Olympic Games, which really put the city on the map. Home to CNN and the Coca Cola Corporation, two of the US’s most iconic ‘institutions’, Atlanta has a lovely laid-back southern charm and is the perfect start to a fascinating tour. We then travel through the rolling rich farmland of Tennessee, past the cotton fields of Mississippi to Louisiana’s moss covered bayous and the vast South Texas plains.

You’ll stay in some of America’s most fascinating cities: Chattanooga, Nashville, Memphis, the amazing New Orleans, as well as Houston, San Antonio and Dallas.

We stay two nights in Nashville, known as Music City USA, the centre of the huge country music industry - where aspiring artists come to start their careers, songwriters try out their new songs and where anyone can walk into one of the myriad of

104

live music venues and hear some of the best musicmaking in North America.

Not too far down the road lies another of America’s great musical cities - Memphis. Home of the remarkable Sun Studios that launched Elvis’ stratospheric rise to fame and the site of his sprawling home, Graceland; Memphis also played a pivotal and tragic role in the civil rights movement as the place where Martin Luther King was assassinated.

We stay three nights in New Orleans, ‘The Big Easy’ with its motto ‘Laissez les bons temps rouler’ – let the good times roll, depicts exactly what makes this city such a rewarding place to visit. Its famously progressive spirit and liberal attitudes date back to its French roots, when convicts were freed on condition that they settled there. Then it became an unruly smuggling enclave ensuring its rebellious streak continued to thrive. Always pushing the boundaries, it was inevitable the exceptional French, Spanish, American and African cultures fused so harmoniously producing a unique city which has given birth to jazz and its most famous son, the remarkable Louis Armstrong. It was also home to some of the greats of American literature such as Mark Twain and

Tennessee Williams, who famously said that ‘America only has three cities, New York, San Francisco and New Orleans. All the rest are Cleveland!’

Our extension into the ‘Lone Star State’ of Texas includes a visit to the very soul of Texas – the Alamo, where in 1836 an estimated 183 men were killed by Mexican troops trying to prevent Texas from gaining

PRICE INCLUDES •

•

•

•

•

•

Stay in Nashville, ‘Music City USA’, and visit the Country Music Hall of Fame Visit Studio B in Nashville and Sun Studio in Memphis, where some of the best-loved songs of the last 50 years were recorded Explore the incredible life of Elvis, the King of Rock and Roll, through the places where he recorded his greatest hits and his unique home, Graceland Enjoy Amtrak’s renowned train service from Memphis to New Orleans Spend three days in New Orleans and enjoy a walking tour with a local guide through the iconic French Quarter Guided tour of Houston’s NASA Johnson Space Centre, from where the Moon landings were controlled

•

•

•

Visit the Alamo in San Antonio, where 183 settlers fought for Texas’ independence from Mexico See where President John F Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, and tour the fascinating museum dedicated to that fateful day Stay in Atlanta and visit the Centre for Civil and Human Rights, an engaging cultural attraction

Plus, of course...

• Return scheduled flights via London Heathrow • Stay in hand-picked four-star and three-star accommodation, including a hotel in the centre of the French Quarter in New Orleans • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €2,799PP PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY

Experience the charms of colourful Chattanooga

its independence. As the second largest US state, Texas is unbelievably almost three times the size of the UK, and has a proud cowboy tradition dating from the 19th century.

Who can ever forget the excitement, hope and sheer exhilaration the US gave the world during the 1960s and ‘70s at the height of its space program, the moonshots and those immortal phrases ‘That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind’ and of course probably the world’s most famous understatement, ‘Houston, we have a problem!’ We’ll tour the Johnson Space Centre and NASA’s ‘Mission Control’ from where the ill-fated Apollo 13 crew was saved from almost certain disaster by the innovative thinking of some of the best scientists and engineers in the world. It does not seem so long ago, but would you believe the return trajectory through the earth’s atmosphere was calculated using a ‘slide rule’ – how the world has changed! The space centre is still used today to train astronauts and develop the new technologies for future manned missions to Mars.

Finally it’s Dallas, which during the 1980s was the setting of the world’s most watched TV programme!

However probably more famously, in 1963 the ’Big

General Jackson Showboat, Nashville What better way to experience Nashville than on a grand showboat of the south? Admire stunning views of the city from the General Jackson Showboat while ‘rollin’ down the river’.

Includes a meal and entertainment in the Victorian theatre on board. Approx. 3 hours from €89pp.

The Grand Ole Opry Live Music Show, Nashville Nashville’s top live music attraction and a must for country music lovers. Catch one of the weekly evening shows featuring country music’s greatest talents. From €52pp.

Visit to Oak Alley Plantation & Louisiana Swamp Spend the day visiting the historic plantation of New Orleans’ south, renowned for its photogenic walkway of oak trees. Tour the stunning ‘Big House’ with a guide and enjoy a long boat tour of the Louisiana bayou. From €67pp.

Stockyards Rodeo VIP seats, Fort Worth The world’s only year-round rodeo, held in the historic Cowtown Coliseum. Enjoy an evening watching rodeo athletes perform thrilling feats of bull-riding. The VIP seats are tiered and located above the Roping Boxes and there is a full-service bar. From €29pp.

D’ was propelled to world attention when Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated President John F. Kennedy, for whatever reason we shall ultimately never know and after which it seemed the entire planet went into mourning - especially so when his son poignantly saluted his father’s coffin. We see the ‘grassy knoll’ and learn all about the events of that famous day.

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL IN ATLANTA You should arrive at the airport for your flight to Atlanta and on arrival we transfer to the three-star Holiday Inn Express Downtown with breakfast, just a short stroll from the Centennial Olympic Park.

DAY 2 - ATLANTA & CHATTANOOGA Atlanta is the base of one of America’s best known companies, CNN and home to the Centre for Civil and Human rights. We enjoy a visit to the Centre for Civil and Human Rights. This afternoon we transfer to the charming small town of Chattanooga for a one-night stay at the three-star superior Choo Choo Hotel, aptly converted from the original railway station.

105

The French Quarter, New Orleans

Graceland, Memphis

DAY 3 - NASHVILLE Experience a ride on the ‘world’s steepest passenger railway’ to the top of Lookout Mountain just outside town experiencing tremendous views, on a clear day across a staggering seven states! Driving deeper into Tennessee to Lynchburg, this quintessential little town is a true slice of unspoilt ‘50s America, with its redbrick courthouse, general store and one traffic light!

It’s a great place to just browse the shops and get a bite to eat before we visit Lynchburg’s claim to fame: the Jack Daniel Distillery. Obviously it’s where Jack Daniel’s whisky is made, since 1884 and a tour is a great experience. Interestingly, the county is ‘dry’ and locals are not allowed to consume the product they are most famous for! Continuing across Tennessee’s rolling green hills we soon arrive at ‘Music City USA’, Nashville, staying two nights at the three-star superior Hyatt Place Opryland, with continental breakfast. This evening you have the opportunity to enjoy dinner and a show on board the General Jackson Steamboat – one of the largest steamboats ever built.

DAY 4 - NASHVILLE In downtown Nashville we visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. A huge museum of all things ‘Country & Western’, it has floors of fascinating exhibits from the earliest days of country music to the megastars of today. There are films and videos of music’s greatest, with their life-stories and costumes. The famed Music Row is close by, lined with studios and record company offices, where we visit the legendary RCA Studio B, where Elvis recorded many of his greatest hits, followed by a ‘who’s who’ of recording superstars such as Roy Orbison, the Everly Brothers, Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson. Lower Broadway is Nashville’s nightlife centre, with stupendous live music in famous honky-tonk bars like Robert’s Western World and The Stage on Broadway and many more. There’s a fantastic atmosphere along the entire street and an evening here is a real ‘must’! Tonight you have the chance to see a country music show at the Grand Ole Opry.

DAY 5 – MEMPHIS & SUN STUDIO Today we say goodbye to Nashville and head to the far west of Tennessee and the city of Memphis and

106

America’s artery, the Mississippi. From its earliest beginnings as a small French garrison, Memphis grew into a magnet for freed slaves after the Civil War and as a cotton trading centre. More infamously, in 1968 Martin Luther King visited to help in a sanitation workers strike and was assassinated on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, now converted into the Civil Rights Museum.

This afternoon we have a guided tour around the birthplace of Rock n’ Roll – the legendary Sun Studio, where Elvis recorded his first hit. This insignificant, yet iconic 1950s building, was the starting point for Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison amongst others and is a designated National Historic Landmark. You can still see Jerry Lee’s piano and Elvis’ microphone! We stay in Memphis for two nights at the three-star superior DoubleTree by Hilton, right in the centre of downtown Memphis.

DAY 6 - GRACELAND Today we visit one of America’s biggest tourist attractions, Elvis’ Graceland. The ‘King’ bought the Graceland mansion for $100,000 in 1957 when he was just 22 and it was his main home until his death. From the time it opened to the public in 1982, Graceland has expanded to include Elvis’ private airplanes and his extensive car collection. One of the most iconic houses in America, Graceland’s Meditation Garden is also Elvis’ final resting place.

This evening is at leisure to sample the music scene at Memphis’ famous Beale Street.

DAY 7 - AMTRAK TRAIN TO NEW ORLEANS An early departure this morning as we catch the renowned ‘City of New Orleans’ Amtrak train service to New Orleans, a real little piece of America. The double-decker, classic silver coloured train carriages, so typical of the US, feature comfortable reclining armchairs with plenty of legroom, as well as a panoramic glass observation deck and dining car.

Our journey takes us through vast forests, farms and the small ‘southern’ towns lining the eastern bank of the Mississippi like pearls on a necklace. Nearing New Orleans, excitement mounts and we cross Lake Pontchartrain, bizarrely it appears like the train is actually travelling over the water itself. We stay three

nights at the three-star superior Courtyard by Marriott Downtown, well located within the French Quarter and a short walk from restaurants and attractions.

DAY 8 - NEW ORLEANS This morning we have a walking tour of New Orleans’ famous French Quarter with an expert local guide. We see the charming art galleries and antique shops along Royal Street, the white stucco St Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square, full of artists, musicians and fortune tellers, and walk up the iconic Bourbon Street, centre of the city’s nightlife. The afternoon is free for you to explore this charming city at your leisure. In the evening why not step out and try New Orleans’ famed Cajun cuisine – there are plenty of fantastic restaurants.

DAY 9 - FREE DAY IN NEW ORLEANS A free day to relax in the ‘Big Easy’ and explore further afield. Alternatively, you may choose to visit some of the most fascinating Antebellum Plantations outside New Orleans combined with a fascinating boat tour of the nearby Louisiana swamps, known for their alligators and snapping turtles, and where you can admire the fauna, such as the moss-draped cypresses native to the bayous of Louisiana. Oak Alley Plantation is a National Historic Landmark and is considered the Deep South’s most spectacular mansion. Dating from

NASA Johnson Space Centre

‘Mission Control’, now restored to its 1965 look with all the original equipment and furniture – a unique experience.

We also see a full-size Saturn V rocket which famously has no on-board computer, they were just too big at the time, plus the huge indoor training facility for the astronauts of the International Space Station. Tonight we stay at the nearby three-star superior Hilton NASA Clear Lake with breakfast.

1839 with two rows of mighty oaks leading down towards the Mississippi River, the house has been fully restored to its magnificent 19th-century opulence and grandeur. Nearby we also visit a more modest mansion from a different world: the Laura Plantation was owned by a Creole family who lived apart from the American mainstream for almost 200 years.

The Alamo

DAY 10 - HOUSTON & NASA We leave New Orleans this morning heading ever westwards along Louisiana’s Cajun country towards Texas. As we enter the outskirts of Houston, our first stop is at the world-famous NASA Johnson Space Centre, still a working NASA base from where the international space station is controlled. We visit

DAY 11 - SAN ANTONIO We continue further into the south Texas plains arriving in San Antonio this afternoon. Originally settled by the Spanish who built a mission station here, the Alamo, whose name was destined to be one of the most evocative words in American history. It was here in 1836 that a seriously outnumbered group of settlers, including Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, were besieged by the Mexican army for nearly two weeks before they were overrun. Tonight we stay at the three-star superior Menger Hotel, just round the corner from the Alamo and within easy walking distance to the charming Riverwalk area with its many bars and restaurants, ideal for trying out the region’s famed Tex-Mex cuisine.

DAY 12 - DALLAS & FORT WORTH We say goodbye to friendly San Antonio and travel north to Dallas to visit the infamous Dealey Plaza, where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated

by Lee Harvey Oswald. The floor in the Texas Book Depository from where the fatal shots were fired has been converted into the excellent 6th Floor Museum dedicated to explaining the background and the events of that fateful day on the 22nd November in 1963. In the afternoon, we explore the historical Stockyard District. We stay overnight in the threestar superior Courtyard by Marriott Downtown with breakfast in the centre of Fort Worth, with plenty of restaurants nearby.

DAY 13 - RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your return flight via Atlanta and London Heathrow.

DAY 14 - ARRIVE HOME You arrive home this morning after a really memorable tour.

107

PERU & THE AMA ZON 14 days from only €3,199pp

With some of South America’s most exceptional sights, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca and the Amazon rainforest, Peru will never disappoint!

Peru is without doubt the most intriguing and fascinating of all South American countries. The incredible remains of the Inca civilization are a huge draw and combined with its colonial architecture, the stunning vistas of the jagged peaks of the Andes, the Amazonian jungle, its superb cuisine and the warmth of the Peruvians themselves, this is one of the most captivating destinations in the world!

Firstly, its scenery is world-class: the Andes, the second highest mountain range in the world rising to a jaw-dropping 20,000 feet, run like a backbone down the entire country. Snow-clad volcanoes pierce the sky, whilst torrential rivers surge through rocky valleys from the numerous glaciers. At lower altitudes is the altiplano, a timeless plateau covered with tufts of wiry grass and studded with occasional but distinctive low thatched houses of the indigenous Peruvians.

Completing the scene are small herds of instantly recognisable llama, whilst above, giant condors soar on the rising thermals.

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. At 13,000 feet the luminescent light and clear air cause the lake to emit a stunning sapphire-blue colour and its infinite vastness stretches into the horizon. With the ever-present Andes as the backdrop, the dark greens of the altiplano plunge into the deep waters whilst an eerily haunting silence pervades; it exudes an almost other-worldly natural beauty. The

108

lake itself is home to the Uros, an indigenous people who live much as they have always done, on extensive floating islands constructed from reeds.

Peru, in all our minds though, is indivisible from the fabled Incas, that remarkable people who, by the

Lake Titicaca

early 16th century had created the greatest empire in the then world. Stretching from Colombia to Chile, amazingly without the benefit of writing, ferrous metals, horses, currency or wheels. The Incas were the last of dozens of pre-Colombian civilisations, but how did a tiny group of 160 Spaniards manage to conquer this highly organised and sophisticated society of 32 million people? We visit the sites of battles, palaces and the most sacred temples of the Incas answering this question and many others.

We stay a few days in Cusco, the oldest inhabited city in the Americas. As Peru’s undisputed archaeological capital, surrounded by exceptionally beautiful Andean countryside, it is one of South America’s most charming cities. It is a curious blend of old and new with immense, virtually earthquake-proof Inca walls lining cobbled streets and forming the foundations of some gorgeous colonial buildings, reminiscent of medieval Spain.

We see its 16th century cathedral, fabulous art and opulent treasure collections, the main square where the conquistadors were almost overwhelmed and the last Inca emperor was executed in a public display of Spanish supremacy.

The most striking image of Peru, and probably the entire continent, is of course the awesome Machu Picchu. One of the greatest archaeological discoveries of modern times, it is set in a breathtaking landscape

Explore the astounding citadel of Machu Picchu

PRICE INCLUDES • Explore extraordinary Machu Picchu, the fabled ‘Lost city of the Incas’, on a guided tour • Tour the Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit Pisac’s famed indigenous market and temple of Ollantaytambo • Guided tour of Arequipa, one of South America’s most charming Spanish colonial cities • Visit Colca Canyon, twice the depth of the Grand Canyon, to spot Andean Condors in flight • Visit the famous floating islands of Lake Titicaca by private boat •

Pass through the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve and the Pampa de Toccra for jaw-dropping viewpoints of the surrounding volcanoes

DAY 2 - ARRIVAL IN LIMA On arrival transfer to the four-star Casa Andina Select Miraflores, where you stay overnight with breakfast and dinner. This afternoon we enjoy a city tour, visiting Lima’s most important colonial sites. You will see the Presidential Palace, the Plaza del Armas, Lima’s central square, surrounded by colonial-era buildings in the central UNESCO listed area of the city.

We will also visit the Casa Aliaga one of Lima’s bestknown colonial mansions built by Pizarro for one of his lieutenants in the 16th century.

DAY 3 - FLY TO AREQUIPA Transfer straight on to a domestic flight to the beautiful colonial city of Arequipa where we stay for two nights at the three-star superior Casa Andina Select Arequipa, with breakfast. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax after your flight. of rich rainforest, deep perilous gorges and lofty snow-covered peaks. Nothing can prepare you for the sheer exhilaration felt as you approach the site and it gloriously comes into view. You ascend a slope and suddenly there it is, its magic hits you right between the eyes: the classic view from countless travel posters, it will truly take your breath away!

Peru is also the culinary centre of South America with many specialities. You should try ceviche, a meaty sea-fish similar to sea-bass, marinated in lime juice. Alpaca steaks are popular too, but you may wish to draw the line at the Inca speciality of guinea pig, still considered a delicacy. There are over thirty different types of potatoes, one of which is bright yellow and delicious baked in salt, and the most mouth-watering corn on the cob, totally different from the selectively bred varieties we are used to.

Peru is fascinating: a striking mixture of oldworld Spanish influence combined with many Inca customs and beliefs persisting to this day. Peruvians are justly proud of their unique and complex cultural heritage and no visitor can fail to be enchanted by their genuine kindness, intrigued by their long and colourful history and captivated by their spectacular and beautiful country.

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE Take your overnight flight to Lima via São Paulo.

DAY 4 - AREQUIPA Situated at an altitude of 7,660ft, Arequipa is Peru’s second-largest city and a good place to start acclimatising to the higher altitude. Its skyline is

• Guided sightseeing of Cusco, once capital of the Inca empire, now one of South America’s most enchanting cities • Travel through Peru’s altiplano, the high Andean plateau, and spot llamas and alpacas

Plus, of course...

• Return scheduled flights via London Heathrow • Stay in hand-picked four-star and three-star accommodation with daily breakfast and five meals • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €3,199PP dominated by a trio of spectacular volcanoes – in fact many buildings are constructed from volcanic sillar rock, the hue of which gives Arequipa its ‘White City’ moniker.

After breakfast we set out on a tour that begins at the Carmen Alto viewpoint, which offers spectacular views of the city. We head through the Yanahuara quarter with its small, cobblestone streets and beautiful mestizo baroque church dating from 1750.

We then head downtown to Arequipa’s UNESCOlisted historic centre and arguably Peru’s prettiest square, the Plaza des Armas, which features the 17th century baroque Jesuit church of La Compáñia. We then head across the plaza to the cathedral, a grand piece of colonial architecture. With 12 giant marble columns, a high vaulted ceiling, the cathedral is impressive on its own, but is given further dramatic emphasis when viewed against the backdrop of the three mighty snow-capped volcanoes.

We move on to the Monastery of Santa Catalina, founded by the Spanish in 1580 for the nuns of the Order of Saint Catherine of Siena. Peru has many magnificent religious structures, but none can match

Arequipa

109

the grandeur and sheer scale of this working convent, which includes streets, chapels, cloisters, squares and an art gallery.

The afternoon is at leisure, giving you the opportunity to browse the local craft market or further explore the pretty streets of dazzling colonial buildings. Many have been transformed into shops, hotels and restaurants, where you can sample some of the excellent cuisine for which the city is famed.

Try locally caught trout cooked on a hot stone, the sweetest corn on the cob you’ll ever taste or even an alpaca steak, all washed down with a pisco sour, of course.

DAY 5 - COLCA After breakfast we head north to Colca, site of one of the world’s deepest canyons. As we pass through the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve we see desert landscapes, exotic rock formations and grasslands populated by vicuñas, llamas and Andean deer. We climb even further to over 12,000ft and the Pampa de Toccra, a plain featuring a lake where pink flamingos reside in season. The trip features several jaw-dropping viewpoints, including the Mirador de los Andes at Patapampa – at over 16,000ft above sea level the air here is thin but the view of the volcanoes around Arequipa is simply jaw dropping.

In the afternoon we reach Chivay (alt.11,900ft), the small town near Colca Canyon where we stay for one night at the three-star superior Casa Andina Standard Colca Hotel, with breakfast.

DAY 6 - COLCA CANYON Today will undoubtedly be another of this tour’s many highlights as we head to Condor Cross for some magnificent views of the Colca Canyon. Prepare to be amazed, the canyon is more than twice the depth of the Grand Canyon and is one of Peru’s most popular sights. This is also where you can get some amazing close-up views of one of the world’s most spectacular birds in flight – the Andean Condor. The Colca Canyon

110

region is one of the last remaining habitats of this endangered giant vulture, which has a wingspan of up to 10ft.

At around midday we continue eastwards to Puno on Lake Titicaca, where we stay two nights on bed and breakfast basis at the four-star superior Libertador Hotel, overlooking the lake. A packed lunch is included today.

DAY 7 - LAKE TITICACA The panorama of Lake Titicaca has to be seen to be believed. Reflecting the blue sky above, is a fabulous deep blue expanse of water stretching as far as the eye can see.

After breakfast we board our private motor launch and visit the famous floating Uros Islands where the indigenous communities, living much as they always have, construct these islands using many layers of totora reeds. We then visit the island of Taquile, further into the lake and famed for the highest quality knitware in Peru. It’s very much a typical village, with no roads or electricity, where the Uros people proudly still adhere to their traditional culture and dress. Lunch is included in Taquile.

DAY 8 - CUSCO This morning we say goodbye to Lake Titicaca and head northwards to Cusco. We firstly drive through the altiplano, the high-altitude Andean plateau observing small herds of llama, alpaca and the low mud-brick, thatch-roofed houses of the local farmers.

As the scenery slips by we start climbing gradually towards La Raya, at 14,170ft, the highest point on this stunning journey.

After our included lunch, we also visit the fascinating church of the Andahuayillas, known as the Sistine Chapel of the America’s due to the high quality of its artwork, arriving in Cusco in the late afternoon.

Our Cusco hotel for two nights is the four-star Costa del Sol Ramada with breakfast.

Tambopata National Reserve

We return by train to the Urumbamba Valley, known as the ‘Sacred Valley of the Incas’ where we spend two nights at the four-star Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel with breakfast.

DAY 9 - CUSCO After breakfast we have a tour of Cusco, one of the most beautiful cities in South America, a heady mixture of traditional colonial architecture interspersed with fascinating Inca remains. The main square, nestling within a maze of narrow streets and quaint piazzas, has been the centre of the city since Inca times and used to be surrounded by three palaces.

Today it is the site of three churches, including the 16th century cathedral, so huge it took 100 years to complete. It has an exquisitely carved wooden choirstall and over 400 paintings, including one thought to be a Van Dyck, plus the Last Supper featuring guinea pig as the main course!

We then visit the Qorichancha, the Incas’ principle temple to the sun. This was the ‘navel’ of the Inca world, originally covered in sheets of pure gold and contained the Incas’ most sacred object, the golden disc of the sun. Although the Spanish built the Santo Domingo convent over the Inca temple, many of the internal walls remain and have now been excavated.

Our final Inca site is the extraordinary Sachsayhuaman with three vast megalithic walls, a staggering thousand feet long and with the largest blocks of stone ever found in Inca structures, all moved with no wheels. This was also the site of the final epic four-day last stand of the Inca rebellion. Had the conquistadors lost, the history of South America could have been quite different.

DAY 10 - PISAC & SACRED VALLEY The Sacred Valley was the empire’s breadbasket, spiritual centre and home to some of its most iconic symbols. Its wide fertile plain, with ancient terraces hugging the valley sides and the imposing peaks of the Andes beyond is truly an awesome sight.

Firstly we visit Pisac, famous for its dominating fortress and colourful indigenous market. It is a fantastic sight, full of traditionally dressed locals bartering for all kinds of produce, chickens and goats.

Every kind of local handicraft is available too – from vibrant hand-made rugs and ponchos in bright reds and yellows, to local ceramics and a huge variety of high quality llama and alpaca knit-ware. After an included lunch we visit the massive fortress and temple of Ollantaytambo. Built along a dominant rocky bluff, and was the site of a rare Conquistador defeat. You can examine the astonishingly intricate Inca stonework – its beauty and precision unique in the world and all hand-crafted using stone tools.

Interestingly, Ollantaytambo was unfinished and still has the earthwork ramp used to transport the huge stone blocks used in its construction.

DAY 11 - MACHU PICCHU Today will certainly be the highlight of your tour!

After driving to Ollaytambo station we board the specially constructed Explorer train taking us on one of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys through the increasingly narrow Urubamba river gorge to the legendary Machu Picchu. As we descend, the scenery changes from semi-arid brush and cactus to dense, lush rainforest. Below us, the river rushes headlong into numerous rapids whilst above, the precipitous sides of the gorge rise to dizzying heights.

Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of the ‘Lost City of the Incas’. It suddenly and magically appears before you, its wonder and mystique astounds - the only Inca settlement never discovered or destroyed by the Spanish. Set on a ridge overlooking the gorge of the Urubamba River, it was rediscovered in 1910 by Hiram Bingham, an American explorer, but with the site being completely overgrown, he had no idea of the immense significance of his find. No one

knows why it was built in such an inaccessible spot or why it was mysteriously abandoned. As you walk through its gates, temples and houses, our guide will explain the significance of the location in relation to the equinoxes and how central mountain-worship was to the Incas.

DAY 12 - AMAZON This morning you begin your journey into the vast Amazon rainforest with a short flight from Cusco to Puerto Madonaldo. We make our way to the Madre de Dios River where our adventure starts with a 25-minute ride by motorised canoe to the excellent Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion Lodge for two nights on full board basis. After lunch, we take a guided walk through the local nature trails, where you’ll discover the differences between primary and secondary rainforest, its complex ecosystem and the many fascinating uses of its plant life. At dusk, we’ll navigate the river by motorised canoe, to spot nocturnal animals’ behaviour and the southern constellations above us.

DAY 13 - AMAZON Today you will understand why the Madre de Dios is called the biodiversity capital of Peru! We will use the motorised canoes to cross mirror-like oxbow lakes and visit the Tambopata National Reserve, home to the endangered giant river otter, black caiman, and one of the world’s biggest fresh water scaled fish, the paiche, as well as blue and yellow macaw and red howler monkeys.

After a buffet lunch back at the lodge, we’ll enjoy a unique view of the rainforest from a canopy walkway.

Ascend one of the two 98-foot towers and cross the 7 hanging bridges that connect the treetops, with the chance to watch white-throated toucans, woodpeckers, squirrel monkeys and three-toed sloths.

DAY 14 - FLY TO LIMA After breakfast, you take the motorised canoe back to Puerto Maldonado from where we fly to Lima for a one night stay at the four-star Casa Andina Select Miraflores, with breakfast.

DAY 15 - RETURN FLIGHT Enjoy a late breakfast before you transfer to the airport for your flight home via São Paulo.

DAY 16 - ARRIVE HOME Arive back home.

Condors at Colca Canyon

111

INDIA PLUS SHIML A 15 days from only €2,629pp

The ‘Taj’ at dawn, a tiger in the wild and the Himalayas are amazing sights, all infused with an extraordinary and eclectic mix of colours, sounds, customs and religions.

India, a unique country and civilisation, is a mindboggling potpourri of sights, sounds, colours and experiences as well as a culture-shock of astonishing contrasts. Immerse yourself in this tour and prepare for a revamp of any preconceptions towards one of the world’s ‘must-see’ destinations!

The jewel of our tour is surely the Taj Mahal in the early morning, when its colours and ethereal beauty is at its most amazing. Built to house the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal, Emperor Jahan’s wife, it took 20,000 men 22 years to finish it. The end result transcends the extraordinary world monument it is. The tomb represents the ultimate expression of a pure and enduring love, a tangible expression of the unquantifiable. But there’s more. We’ll see the real India, a subcontinent that covers the full gamut of evolution, from the natural world, including the nation’s unofficial symbol, the tiger, in Ranthambore, through the Rajasthan forts and palaces of the Moghul Empire, to the more recent Raj and British colonial influence.

112

We’ll stay for three nights in Rajasthan, regarded as India’s most colourful state, a region fringed by deserts, populated by a fiercely proud, warrior race and a plethora of forts and palaces. No area in all of India more clearly illustrates the paradox of ancient and modern which exist side by side.

We stay in Rajasthan’s capital city of Jaipur, known as the ‘Pink City’ due to the colour of its walls and so many of its buildings, and we visit the Maharajah’s City Palace as well as the great Amber Fort, one of the masterpieces of Rajput architecture, guarding the northern approaches to the city.

We delve, ever deeper, into the culture and history of Rajasthan with our stay at the Alsisar Mahal, a restored fort, converted into one of the region’s best heritage hotels. A wonderfully romantic setting where Belgian crystal chandeliers hang above exquisite marble floors, cut from the very quarries that supplied the builders of the Taj Mahal.

On selected departures our tour continues on to the hill-station of Shimla, effectively the summer capital of India during the Raj. At over 7,300ft, the

Ranthambore National Park

PRICE INCLUDES • Visit all the major sights of Old and New Delhi • See the breathtaking Taj Mahal bathed in soft morning light, gazing in awe at the simple purity of its white marble and the exquisite craftsmanship of its inlay work • Enjoy a guided tour of the 400-year old deserted Moghul city of Fatehpur Sikri • Driving safari in Ranthambore National Park, the best place in India to spot the elusive tigers • Spend two nights in the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, capital of the desert kingdom of Rajasthan with a guided city tour, seeing the City Palace, Astronomical Observatory and the Palace of the Winds • Marvel at the extraordinary location and beauty of Amber Fort, home of one of India’s most powerful maharajas • Stay in an original Rajasthani fort, converted into a stunning Heritage Hotel • Travel on the famous Shimla railway

Plus, of course...

Experience the beautiful Taj Mahal

cooler climate made this the ideal location to escape from the searing summer temperatures on the plains below. Dominated by the baronial splendour of the Viceregal Lodge, Shimla was, in those days, a microcosm of late Victorian English society.

Surrounded by vast forests of teak and pine and located across a long ridge with steep mountainous terrain on all sides, Shimla was not the easiest place to get to. But Victorian engineers managed to build one of the marvels of Indian Railways, the 96-kilometre narrow-gauge line to Shimla, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our journey ‘clickety-clicks’ along those very tracks laid by those intrepid imperial engineers more than a century ago.

But India is not all history and architecture – genuine Indian cuisine is far more varied and interesting that what we are used to at home. From a simple hot chapatti fresh from the oven, to the delicate spices of Kheer, a sweet rice pudding, a trip to India will change your view of Indian cookery – and don’t worry, many of the curries are quite mild!

However, for the brave at heart, there’s the gasket-

•

•

•

•

Return scheduled flights with premium economy flight upgrades available at a supplement Stay in hand-picked three-star to five-star accommodation Daily breakfast and eight meals, plus a sumptuous buffet when staying at the Oberoi Cecil in Shimla The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €2,629PP

blowing prospect of Phaal curry. Whichever culinary delight you choose, the one guarantee is that the Indian people are supremely hospitable and will go out of their way to ensure their visitors enjoy their stay.

From the flawless grandeur of the Taj Mahal, to the mighty fortresses of Rajasthan and from the reminders of past glories of the Raj in Delhi to the teeming markets of Jaipur, our India tour encompasses the very best of northern India, ensuring a lifetime of truly amazing memories.

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE Fly to Delhi via London Heathrow.

DAY 2 - ARRIVAL IN DELHI On arrival, we transfer to the five-star Taj Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi (previously named the Taj Palace) for one night. All rooms are stylishly furnished and air-conditioned with flat-screen TVs, personal safe, mini-bar and complimentary tea/ coffee. After a short rest we commence our guided tour of New Delhi. The city centre, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1911, is bisected by wide, tree-lined avenues, a hub which clearly reflects the Raj legacy and home to the former Viceroy’s Palace, now the Presidential Palace. Heading down the imposing Rajpath, we pass India Gate and the Parliament building. We’ll visit some of Delhi’s older monuments, including the Qutub Minaret, started in 1199, which is the tallest stone built tower in India. Nearby is Humayun’s tomb, an outstanding example of Moghul architecture and the first mausoleum of its type, pre-dating the more widely known Taj Mahal by nearly a century. A buffet dinner at your hotel is included tonight.

DAY 3 - OLD DELHI This morning we continue our city tour, first visiting Old Delhi, starting with the Raj Ghat, a fittingly simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. We continue past the imposing walls and battlements of the great Red Fort before visiting the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. We leave Delhi in the afternoon for our drive to Agra, arriving at our four-star Oberoi Trident hotel, in the late afternoon.

DAY 4 - TAJ MAHAL We rise early to catch the sun rising over the Taj Mahal. In the soft morning light, as the mist rises from the Yamuna River behind it, the Taj Mahal seems to float, mirage-like, above the surrounding landscape.

A combination of extraordinary beauty, symmetry and history makes this wonder of the world one of the most amazing monuments on the planet and you

113

will have plenty of time to admire it from all angles.

Moving on, we continue our tour with a visit to the vast red sandstone Agra Fort. Completed in 1573, it was the headquarters of the Moghul Empire, boasting vast size and opulence, its buildings make it more of a walled palace than a fort. In the evening you have the option of completing a wonderful day with another visit to the Taj Mahal, to witness the shrine at sunset.

DAY 5 - FATEHPUR SIKRI Leaving Agra this morning we continue towards the ancient abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, built in 1571, as Emperor Akbar’s imperial capital. Although it was mysteriously abandoned just 15 years later, it remains in a remarkable state of preservation, with numerous palaces, wide courtyards and beautiful carvings. Just 15 kilometres away is the Bagh Bharatpur, a luxury Heritage Hotel in Bharatpur where we stop for lunch before going on to the railway station to catch the Shatabdi Express for our comfortable two and a half hour journey to Ranthambore National Park.

Originally the private hunting preserve of Maharajahs, its 400 square kilometres of forested rolling hills, valleys and lakes form a unique ecosystem. Started in 1973, India’s famous Tiger Project was created to protect the country’s tiger population. Despite many difficulties, the tigers of Ranthambore have survived and numbers have stabilised. Our hotel for the next two nights is the comfortable family-run, three-star Ranthambore Regency on full board basis.

DAY 6 - RANTHAMBORE TIGER SAFARI An early start this morning is worth the sacrifice as we head out to the park for our safari using speciallybuilt, 20-person, open-top four wheel drive vehicles known as ‘canters’. After many years of conservation, Ranthambore is now the best place to spot tigers in India, but the reserve is about more than tigers – over 300 bird species have been counted including impressive crested eagles, painted stork and wild peacocks. The park’s residents also include large numbers of sambars, the largest Asian antelope, as well as marsh crocodiles, wild boar and rare sloth bears and leopards. Look out for the playful troop of black-faced langur monkeys near the main entrance gate.

Amber Fort

We return to our hotel in the late morning, with time to relax before and after lunch. In the afternoon we take our second trip into the park for another chance to spot the elusive tigers.

DAY 7 - JAIPUR Leaving Ranthambore after breakfast we head north to the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur. Our afternoon tour will cover all the major highlights of this ancient city.

The famous Hawa Mahal, known as the Palace of Winds, is one of our first stops before we continue to the Astronomical Observatory constructed in 1726 and on to the City Palace, still home to the present Maharajah of Jaipur, where we’ll view collections of costumes, carpets, paintings and the impressive armoury. Our hotel for the next two nights is the new four-star Hilton Jaipur.

City Palace

DAY 8 - AMBER FORT This morning another highlight, on a tour of highlights: you’ll visit the immense Amber Fort, located in the hills just a short drive out of Jaipur. Sampling all the most fascinating sights, our guided tour includes the sections reserved for the Maharajah’s wives and concubines as well as the remarkable hall of mirrors, with tiny delicate convex mirrors embedded like a mosaic in the walls and ceilings.

DAY 9 - RAJASTHAN After breakfast, we bid goodbye to Jaipur and head north, deeper into the interior of rural Rajasthan. We pass numerous small villages and towns on our way to the Sekhawati region of the state and the village of Alsisar. This was once part of India’s Silk Road and over the years the merchants here grew very rich, building a large number of luxurious mansions known as ‘havelis’, to display their wealth through the magnificence of their frescoed walls. Although most of these have now been abandoned, the imposing and luxurious residence of the local kings has been lovingly restored into an amazing Heritage Hotel, the Alsisar Mahal, where we stay for the night with a buffet dinner. A maze of winding corridors, cool courtyards and arched colonnades, lead to the charming rooms, all different, but most are spacious and some with four-poster double beds. Rooms are air-conditioned,

114

with bath or shower, but no TV. In the afternoon we take a guided walk through the village to explore the best examples of the havelis that lie just outside the walls of the Alsisar Mahal.

DAY 10 - DELHI After breakfast we head back to Delhi and the last night of our tour at the Taj Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi. Dinner is included tonight.

DAY 11 - TRAIN TO SHIMLA We take the morning express train from Delhi for our four-hour journey north to Kalka. Our train reservations are in ‘chair-class’ carriages, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning and large windows. At Kalka we change trains onto the Shimla narrow-gauge ‘toy’ train for the last part of our journey. Although the carriages are smaller and not air-conditioned, the compensation is the increasingly spectacular scenery en-route.

Inaugurated by Viceroy Lord Curzon back in 1903, this amazing railway encounters no less than 800 bridges and 102 tunnels on its 96-kilometre journey to Shimla. A packed lunch is included today.

We arrive in Shimla’s small station in the late afternoon from where we are transferred straight to the town’s haven of luxury, the five-star Oberoi Cecil Hotel, where we stay for three nights, bed and breakfast. With its Burmese teak floors, magnificent atrium lobby, its excellent restaurant, indoor pool and Asian Spa, this is one of India’s best-known hotels. All the spacious rooms are air-conditioned, beautifully furnished and have views of the surrounding teak forests.

Palace of the Winds

DAY 12 - SHIMLA Today we explore the many reminders of British colonial life in Shimla. The most fascinating by far is the immense Viceregal Lodge and its beautiful botanical gardens, built in Scottish baronial style to house the Viceroy and his staff for the six months they were based in the town. Although some of the interior of the building is closed to the public, the areas that are open give an incredible glimpse into the not-so-distant past. Particularly touching is the large collection of photographs from the late Victorian era and the last years of the Raj. We also take a walk along the pedestrian-only Mall, from Scandal Point and Christ Church past the mock-Tudor Post Office, the Gaiety Theatre and the Town Hall. There are a huge number of shops and markets and Shimla is particularly known for the quality of its locally made pashmina shawls.

DAY 13 - FREE DAY IN SHIMLA Enjoy a day at leisure in Shimla, relax at the hotel pool or spa, or maybe take another stroll along the mall and do some last minute bargain hunting in the markets. Alternatively, there are a number of short local ‘treks’ that can be arranged in the surrounding hills. A sumptuous buffet dinner is included at the Oberoi Cecil tonight.

DAY 14 - TRAIN TO DELHI Today we say goodbye to Shimla and the Oberoi Hotel as we start our return journey to Delhi. This time we descend by car to Kalka or Chandigarh from where we catch the train back to Delhi for our last night at the Taj Diplomatic Enclave.

DAY 15 - RETURN FLIGHT Depart Delhi in the early afternoon for Dublin via London, arriving home the same day.

115

NEW

SRI LANKA 13 days from only €2,129pp PLUS MALDIVES CRUISE EX TENSION 18 days from only €3,959pp

Discover old Ceylon with its sacred caves, ancient temples, palaces, lost cities and a unique cuisine blended with excellent game viewing and finishing with a relaxing few days on a tropical beach.

As soon as you arrive, your senses are overwhelmed

by Sri Lanka. The warm tropical air, the colourful wild flowers and the jungle, the striking colours of the saris adorning every woman, the variety of exotic fruits and spices, the beauty of the countryside, the mystique of countless temples and orange-clad Buddhist monks and wild elephants – this is a varied place indeed.

Marco Polo, arguably the greatest explorer of all time, described it simply as the finest island in the world.

During its 2000-year history, Sri Lanka has attracted countless invaders and visitors from nearby India, the Arabs, the Portuguese, Dutch and finally the British. The 145 years of British rule left an indelible mark on Sri Lanka’s culture and institutions – from a deep love of cricket to the red pillar-boxes still found on street corners. Today, this fabled island of spices and gems is a vibrant blend of entrancing Buddhist culture, ancient cities, wildlife- rich lowland jungles, home to leopards, elephants and monkeys, a mist-shrouded hill country and tropical palmfringed beaches.

116

Our tour takes you to all the major sites of historical and cultural interest, visiting three outstanding UNESCO World Heritage sites and finishing with three days’ relaxation in one of the country’s finest beach resorts. Two nights are spent in Sri Lanka’s fascinating ‘Cultural Triangle’, where we visit one of the best-preserved ancient sites on the Indian subcontinent. Sigiriya Rock, an impregnable 5th century palace and fortress clinging to the top of an immense granite monolith soaring up 600 feet is Sri Lanka’s most remarkable sight, with amazing views of the jungle-covered plain below. Around the base of the rock we see beautifully laid out fountains, gardens and bathing pools, incredibly still working, linked by an ingenious web of underground, gravity-fed water channels.

The cave temples of Dambulla, another World Heritage site, highlight Sri Lanka’s extraordinary artistic heritage. Their entire walls and ceilings are completely covered by sumptuously painted, perfectly preserved frescoes and shrines, whilst hundreds of

Temple of the Tooth, Kandy

PRICE INCLUDES • Experience superb scenery, shimmering paddy fields, rubber and spice plantations, verdant tea estates, swaying coconut groves, and exotic wildlife • Visit the Buddhist monastery of Dambulla and its incredible UNESCO listed cave temples • Guided tour of the 5th-century Royal Palace and Citadel at Sigiriya Rock • Visit Kandy and see the Temple of the Tooth, said to house Buddha’s tooth, plus visit the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens • Stay in the colonial hill-station of Nuwara Eliya, centre of the Ceylon tea trade • Visit the Elephant Transit Home, where elephant orphans are cared for before being reintroduced to the wild • Enjoy a 4x4 drive in Yala National Park, famed for its wildlife • Spend three nights relaxing on one of Sri Lanka’s idyllic tropical beaches

Plus, of course...

• Return scheduled flights via London Heathrow • Stay in hand-picked four-star hotels, with breakfast and dinner daily • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €2,129PP

Visit the royal palace and citadel at Sigiriya Rock

gold-coloured statues of all shapes and sizes positively glow in the darkness - truly amazing!

Kandy, formerly isolated by dense jungle, was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is today custodian of Sinhalese culture. Here we visit the Royal Botanical Gardens which also contain, in a typical colonial house, the wartime HQ of Lord Louis Mountbatten and Far Eastern Command, as well as one of Buddhism’s holiest shrines, the Temple of the Tooth.

Sri Lanka’s hill-country is remarkably beautiful. The dense jungle of the lowlands gives way to more open countryside, with charming small villages, extensive lakes and pine-covered hillsides, with a slightly cooler and less humid climate. It was here during the 19th century that the vast tea estates were created by the British. We visit one of the finest such establishments before staying in the hill-station of Nuwara Eliya, with its colonial-era racecourse, bowling green, halftimbered houses and churches.

We also stay for two nights next to the county’s second-largest national park. The 380-square mile Yala National Park is famed for its high concentration of leopards. Its open undulating terrain with grassland and shrub jungle, as well as fresh and salt-water lagoons, make it ideal for spotting a wide variety of game including wild boar, sambar deer, sloth bears,

plus over 200 bird species. We enjoy an exciting safari in the park. After our tour we drive to the west coast spending three nights by the stunning beaches of the Indian Ocean.

One of the most enjoyable things about a visit to this beautiful island is its delicious cuisine! Indeed, Sri Lanka was one of the original ‘Spice Islands’ with cinnamon, cochinilla, nutmeg and all manner of other exotic flavours combined with fresh vegetables including peppers, aubergines and okra blending wonderfully with fresh seafood and meat giving a truly unique and delicious cuisine. A further attraction of this remarkable country are the Sri Lankans themselves, one of the most friendly and hospitable people you’re likely to meet and immensely proud of their beautiful homeland. The fertile plains, the colourful towns and villages, the lush forests of the interior with the vast plantations of tea, rubber and coconuts will entrance you, while its history and traditions will capture your imagination.

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE You should arrive at the airport to take your flight to Colombo.

DAY 2 - ARRIVAL IN COLOMBO After your arrival, we stay for one night at the nearby four-star Jetwing Lagoon Hotel.

DAY 3 - DAMBULLA Today the adventure begins and the sights and the sounds of Sri Lanka gradually unfold. The countryside is stunning – scenic paddy fields studded by water Galle

117

Dambulla cave temple

buffalos accompanied by wiry, loin-clothed farmers, extensive coconut groves, pineapple fields, working elephants with attentive mahouts astride their necks and everywhere the dense jungle interspersed by huge lakes. We visit the amazing, 1st century cave temples of Dambulla, a UN World Heritage site and a wonderful introduction to the Buddhist religion.

Located within an immense granite outcrop and reached by a number of steps, this series of five caves is richly adorned with remarkably preserved frescoes and over 150 Buddhist statues. In the caves’ semi-darkness, surrounded by the serene faces of dozens of beautifully painted statues, it’s not difficult to imagine the incredible sense of awe this sacred site held for generations of worshippers. We stay two nights at the four-star Habarana Village Hotel by Cinnamon.

DAY 4 - SIGIRIYA ROCK This morning you visit what for many will surely be the most memorable and fascinating monument in Sri Lanka: Sigiriya, or the ‘Lion Rock’, is a massive 600ft granite tower with sheer cliffs on all sides crowned by the remains of a 1,500-year-old royal palace. The entire site is encircled by a moat and ramparts enclosing a variety of water gardens, the remains of numerous buildings and caves. As you approach Sigiriya rock, you see some of the finest ancient murals in the country – the ‘cloud maidens’ are found under a fold of rock and show in exquisite detail a procession of jewelled, beautifully dressed women bearing offerings of lilies and lotus flowers.

Facing us is the imposing final entrance to the palace above: in ancient times the colossal head of a lion (hence ‘Lion Rock’) was built in brick and plaster, visitors entering through its mouth. Today, just the two front paws remain, their claws menacingly

118

extended, still guarding the palace. It should be noted that there are numerous steps to the top of Sigiriya rock, but should pose no problem for those with normal mobility. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to enjoy our hotel’s pool and facilities.

DAY 5 - KANDY This morning we leave Sigiriya for Kandy. Sri Lanka is noted for its magnificent spices so en route we visit a fascinating garden where we see many indigenous

plants such as pepper, nutmeg and cinnamon before arriving at Kandy, the country’s royal capital. You stay two nights at the four-star Cinnamon Citadel Hotel, beautifully located overlooking the scenic Mahaweli River and surrounded by peaceful forested hillsides. The hotel as a pool overlooking the river, with a colonnaded lobby, a charming bar and restaurant.

Kandy is famous for its traditional dancing and so this evening we experience a colourful and hugely skilful display of this ancient art.

Kandy Lake

You stay two nights at the excellent four-star Jetwing Yala Hotel. The hotel is located just 4 kilometres outside the national park and features a pool, bar and restaurant, set in a stunning beach location.

DAY 9 - YALA NATIONAL PARK An early start this morning, accompanied by the unique sound of a tropical ‘dawn chorus’. As the morning mist disappears with the rising sun you explore the jungle and its incredible range of wildlife in 4x4 vehicles. The normally elusive leopard offers the Park’s most exciting game viewing and Yala has a high concentration of these big cats. They are the island’s top predator so are far less shy than elsewhere in the world. Yala is also known for its elephants, saltwater crocodiles, wild boar, sloth bears, monitor lizards and a huge variety of birdlife. After a late breakfast you can relax by the hotel’s pool before an optional second, early evening park drive.

DAY 10 - GALLE After breakfast you head to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle, with its imposing 16th century Dutch fort, where you have some free time to explore.

You soon arrive at the excellent four-star superior Lighthouse Hotel. Designed by the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, the hotel has an old world charm and elegance set among the sea and palms of the southern coast and is easily accessible from the Dutch colonial town of Galle. The rooms

DAY 6 - KANDY Kandy’s crowded and bustling streets teem with daily comings and goings: the many white-uniformed children returning from school and the myriad of shops. The centre is dominated by a beautiful lake and the fascinating Temple of the Tooth, said to hold Buddha’s tooth. This is Buddhism’s most sacred shrine on the island and during our visit (today or tomorrow morning), you may be lucky enough to witness one of the many ceremonies. You also visit the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens. Planted over 150 years and covering a huge 150 acres, the gardens hold thousands of plant species and some superb examples of mature tropical trees. Strolling through lawns, shady avenues and immaculately kept flower beds, we see exotic birds and the commemorative trees planted by Edward VII, George VI, Princess Anne and the Queen.

Other highlights are the Avenue of Royal Palms and ‘Bat’ Drive where you can spot the large fruiteating ‘Flying Foxes’ hanging upside down! The gardens also house Lord Mountbatten’s imposing HQ from World War II. DAY 7 - TEA ESTATES Today you leave Kandy, driving through increasingly mountainous scenery to Sri Lanka’s premier teagrowing areas. Winding ever upwards, the lush tropical jungle gives way to tall pine forests and then box-like tea bushes begin – few at first and then seemingly covering every fold of the landscape like a huge green carpet. You visit one of the best-known tea estates to see how our favourite drink is rolled, dried and graded, followed by a refreshing cup of Ceylon’s finest.

Nuwara Eliya, the main hill station, is nearly 7,000 feet above sea level and called ‘Little England’ due to its spring-like climate, parks and golf course. You stay at the four-star St Andrew’s Hotel. Originally

Lighthouse Hotel, Galle

part of a Victorian mansion, it is famed for its classic 19th-century public rooms and lovely, English inspired flower beds and lawns. Even High Tea is served.

DAY 8 - ELEPHANT TRANSIT HOME & YALA You say goodbye to Sri Lanka’s hill country this morning on your way to Yala National Park in the south of Sri Lanka. At around midday we arrive at the Elephant Transit Home, supported by the UK’s Born Free Foundation, at Udawalawe National Park, where you’ll be able to watch young elephant orphans being given one of their daily feeds.

are comfortably furnished and have TV, safe, air conditioning, mini bar, iron/board, tea/coffee-maker, free wifi and private balcony. The hotel has various restaurants and bars offering local and international cuisine, and facilities also include, two pools, spa, tennis court and gym.

On selected departures, our tour of Sri Lanka continues to the Maldives on day 11 for a seven-night full-board cruise aboard the three-star MV Yasawa Princess. You’ll stay at the Lighthouse Hotel for one night, with breakfast and dinner.

DAYS 11-12 - FREE DAYS You have two entire days to do as you wish. Perhaps relax in your hotel and enjoy the palm-shaded beach and pool.

DAY 13 - RETURN FLIGHT You transfer to the airport for the return flight, arriving home early evening the same day.

119

MALDIVES CRUISE EXTENSION HIGHLIGHTS Cruise the South Male, Vaavu and Ari Atolls.

• Explore the extraordinary underwater worlds of the Maldives • Discover idyllic islands and stunning sandbanks • Enjoy an unforgettable beach barbecue on a desert island • Try traditional Maldivian-style line fishing under starlit skies • All meals included on board, including a beach BBQ and unlimited bottled water, tea and coffee daily • Opportunity to experience night snorkelling or go in search of whale sharks (excursions can be booked locally) For an additional €157pp, drinks and snorkelling equipment will be included daily throughout the cruise. Please refer to the price book for details.

TOUR AND CRUISE FROM €3,959PP Kick off your shoes, forget the news, relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the welcoming hospitality of this unique island nation. What makes these numerous tiny islands so special is that they’re actually the crowns of coral reefs and submerged volcanic mountains – in fact, just 1% of the Maldives is land-based. Only 200 of these are inhabited, which means there are many idyllic desert islands awaiting your fresh footprints on their unblemished shores.

Your days are filled with carefree pleasures, such as relaxing on pearly white-sand beaches in the shade of natural tropical vegetation, taking a dip in crystal waters of sparkling azure hues, and gazing at the glittering night sky. There are plenty of opportunities to snorkel beneath the warm waters of the Indian Ocean – your swimming pool for the week – and immerse yourself in remarkable underwater worlds.

The Maldives is blessed with remarkable reefs and home to fascinating marine life, from colourful tropical fish to whale sharks, manta rays and turtles.

DAY 11 – FLY TO MALE Transfer from your hotel in Galle to Colombo airport for your flight (1 hour 25 minutes) to the Maldivian capital Male. On arrival you’ll be taken by dhoni (traditional Maldivian wooden boat) to the Yasawa Princess, your charming home for the week, where the friendly crew will help you check into your comfortable cabin. During this evening’s informal welcome meeting, you’ll be briefed on the week’s itinerary, meet crew members and the other guests on board. Enjoy your complimentary pre-dinner cocktail as you catch the first of many spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

DAY 12 – KALHUHURAA SANDBANK Get your first taste of cruising as we cross the

120

Embark on a unique and unforgettable seven-night cruise exploring the best of the Maldives aboard the three-star MV Yasawa Princess.

Vaadhoo channel into the South Male Atoll.

The ship’s tender makes trips to the beautiful Kalhuhuraa sandbank in the morning and afternoon, ideal for soaking up the sun and cooling off in the lagoon.

DAY 13 – RANNALHI ISLAND A short cruise within the atoll takes us to the stunning, 8-acre resort island of Rannalhi, which boasts powder-sand beaches, fringed by charming water bungalows and a superb house reef. The resort offers excellent facilities (available at extra cost) such as water sports and the excellent Balinese-style Chavana spa. Tonight, why not try your hand at traditional fishing in the open ocean under the stars? Maldivians are true fishermen at heart, so you’re in good hands with our local guides.

DAY 14 – ALIMATHA SANDBANK Early this morning we cross the channel into the Vaavu Felidu Atoll. The ship’s tender makes trips in the morning and afternoon to the splendid Alimatha sandbank, whose gleaming white sand contrasts beautifully with the surrounding turquoise lagoon. Wade in the warm waters of the

sweeping turquoise lagoon, snorkel on the reef, or take a barefoot stroll to nowhere. This evening, you may wish to experience a thrilling night snorkelling trip, at a small charge, in the Alimatha house reef, home to nurse sharks, beautiful sting rays and many nocturnal marine creatures you would not get to see during the day.

DAY 15 – ANBARAA ISLAND & BEACH BBQ After a leisurely cruise this morning, we arrive at the tiny island of Anbaraa. With soft white sands, lush coconut trees and astonishingly clear water, this remarkably picturesque island appears to have sprung to life from the cover of a travel magazine! There is easy access to the reef for snorkelling. Lunch today is a picnic on the island.

For many, this evening will be a real highlight. Few experiences can compare with a meticulously prepared barbecue on the beach, served with warm Maldivian hospitality. Enjoy a wide selection of delicious food including traditional Maldivian Boduberu music and dancing under a starlit sky – a truly memorable experience.

DAY 16 – OSHAGALI SANDBANK Early this morning we cross the channel into the Ari

‘A’ deck cabin

Atoll. There are visits in the morning and afternoon to Oshagali Finolhu, a wonderful sandbank with a stunning sea-green lagoon and a surrounding reef, making snorkelling an absolute dream.

YOUR SHIP: MV YASAWA PRINCESS With its friendly crew and informal atmosphere (t-shirts and shorts are the order of the day), convivial bar and partly open-air dining area, the 180-foot MV

Yasawa Princess is just perfect for an intimate cruise around the remarkable atolls of the Maldives. There are just 28 cosy and simply-furnished cabins and four passenger decks, which offer a bar (open from midday for alcoholic drinks), restaurant, small spa area, sun deck and cosy forward observation lounge. All meals on board are included and consist of a generous breakfast buffet, a lunchtime buffet or island picnic, and a buffet dinner. There is also a self-service station where tea, coffee and bottled water are available all day. A dhoni and tender accompany the Yasawa Princess, providing easy access to the various islands and sandbanks visited. The ship now also boasts a newly added aft swimming platform, so you can easily get in and out of the water. Beach towels are provided while Wi-Fi is available at an extra charge, although coverage can be patchy at times. There is a fully staffed PADI dive centre on board, with a variety of courses and dive packages available – please call for information. See the price booklet for details of our drinks package.

Lower main-deck cabins – on the lowest deck are air-conditioned, tastefully decorated and accessed from inside the ship, with twin or double beds, hairdryer, safe, compact dressing table, en-suite shower/WC and porthole 13.5 square metres (142 square feet).

A-deck cabins – as per the lower main-deck cabins, are accessed from the deck, with a large window instead of a porthole 10.8 square metres (117 square feet).

Bridge-deck cabins – are as per the A deck cabins, but on the highest passenger deck 10.6 square metres (115 square feet).

DAY 17 – ARIADHOO DESERT ISLAND Your cruise continues to Ariadhoo, an uninhabited agricultural island lush with vegetation. Relax on the soft warm sand, cool off with a dip in the ocean, or snorkel to discover more of the wonderful marine life. This region boasts exceptional sighting records of whale sharks and the Maldives is one of the few places on earth where these sharks may be encountered year-round. For a small additional charge payable locally, you may wish to take a boat out with professional guides and go in search of these gentle giants! This afternoon we visit the inhabited island of Maamigili, for a closer look at local life and the opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy.

DAY 18 – RETURN FLIGHT After a light breakfast early this morning, we take a short domestic flight to Male for our return flight to the UK via Colombo.

121

VIETNAM & CAMBODIA 16 days from only €2,639pp

W IT H L AOS E X T E N S I O N 19 days from only €3,219pp

Visit the major sights of Vietnam and Cambodia, the very essence of Indochina, experiencing their captivating blend of French colonial history, unique local culture and beautiful rural scenery.

The overwhelming image retained by visitors to Vietnam is that of a country blessed with an extraordinary beauty. It’s a mosaic of mist-shrouded mountains, vibrant green forests, a patch-work of rice paddies and pristine white beaches, whilst its villages and cities are custodians of the culture and monuments of a unique 2,000-year-old civilisation.

A journey through some of the delightful countryside is like stepping back in time: farmers bent double underneath their traditional conical hats work in fields stretching into the distance, whilst docile water buffalo methodically plough the rice paddies. On the roads there are bicycles being ridden to market, over-loaded with everything from huge sacks of rice to an imponderable number of ducks!

Lining the riverbanks are wooden houses, balancing precariously on stilts and thatched with palm leaves.

Vietnam has a long and chequered past: for 2,000 years it was ruled by the Chinese, the Khmers, Mongols, Portuguese and the Japanese. They all left their legacies in the temples and Pagodas, together with palaces, fortresses and innumerable other buildings in every style imaginable. It was then colonised by the French, whose contribution was cathedrals, fine mansions, neo-classical public buildings, not forgetting excellent baguettes and

122

pastries – an eclectic mix! Many visitors also inevitably recall the US-Vietnam war – who could forget those dramatic images of the frantic helicopter flights from the roof of the US embassy?

In the past few years Vietnam has opened its doors to the world and much has changed. Today, in one of the world’s last communist countries, the motorcycles and western dress of the industrious youth happily co-exist with orange-clad Buddhist monks and political posters from a different era. Visitors are invariably impressed by the development of excellent hotels and services in all the major centres and the much-improved road network.

Hanoi and Saigon still retain a French flavour in their pavement cafés, architecture and wide tree-lined boulevards. In Hue, the former imperial capital, we see the amazing Citadel and its imperial Forbidden City, modelled on Beijing. Contorted by years of erosion, we’ll also explore the staggeringly beautiful rock formations of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

But Vietnam is more than just history and scenery.

It also boasts a world-class gastronomic heritage: a delicious fusion of Malay, Chinese and Thai cuisines.

With plenty of French-run restaurants thrown in for good measure, all at excellent prices, you really

See the astonishing temples of Angkor

PRICE INCLUDES •

•

•

•

•

•

Stay in Hanoi, Vietnam’s beautiful capital, and enjoy a tour by cycle rickshaw, seeing the Temple of Literature, tree-lined avenues, colonial belle-époque villas and Ho Chi Minh’s .. thought-provoking mausoleum Take a leisurely cruise aboard a converted Chinese junk in UNESCOlisted Halong Bay Be inspired by the hauntingly beautiful countryside with shimmering rice fields, where buffaloes are tended by farmers adorned with conical hats Stay in Hue, Vietnam’s last royal capital, and visit its awe-inspiring Citadel and Forbidden City Stay in the heart of exciting Saigon, visiting the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels, the former Vietcong underground stronghold and a poignant reminder of the US-Vietnam conflict Enjoy a full-day trip on the mighty Mekong delta, the world’s 10th-largest river system

•

•

•

•

Stay and tour in Phnom Penh, Pearl of Asia, considered the most beautiful of Indochina’s French colonial cities Stay in Siem Reap, the gateway to the Angkor city ruins Visit the Angkor ruins, a UNESCOlisted complex of ancient temples and one of the world’s greatest ancient sites Extend your tour with 3 nights in UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang in Laos

Plus, of course...

• Return scheduled flights via London Heathrow with premium economy flight upgrades available at a supplement • Stay in hand-picked five-star and four star accommodation, with daily breakfast and five meals • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €2,639PP

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE Fly to Hanoi via London Heathrow.

DAY 2 - ARRIVAL IN HANOI After our morning arrival, we transfer to the five-star Melia Hotel, for three nights on bed and breakfast.

This is a fabulous hotel with three restaurants, lovely pool, fitness centre and all the facilities you would expect from a major international property. We have a wonderful introduction to Hanoi on our trip into the city’s old town by cycle rickshaws with time for some lunch before returning to our hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. are in for a treat! The Vietnamese themselves are a wonderfully friendly people, always smiling, courteous and proud to show off their beautiful country to all.

Our tour in Cambodia includes a stay in the capital, Phnom Penh. Beautifully located at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh, with its vibrant riverside ambience, is one of the ‘hidden gems’ of Asian cities. After being virtually completely depopulated during Pol Pot’s regime, the city is now full of life and thriving once more. A short flight away is the town of Siem Reap, the gateway to the incredible complex of temples within the ancient city of Angkor. At its height in the thirteenth century, Angkor had a staggering one million inhabitants, larger in area than Manhattan. It was the capital of the fabulously wealthy Khmer Empire that stretched from Thailand, through Laos and Cambodia to southern Vietnam. The incredible state of preservation, the beauty of its design and artistry of its sculptures have, for many, made Angkor one of the great wonders of the world.

Vietnam and Cambodia are countries in flux, but bicycles and mopeds still outnumber cars by 100 to 1, so now is the time to visit these most fascinating and colourful destinations, whilst so much of their unique character and traditions are still in evidence!

DAY 3 - HANOI Today we explore Hanoi, past and present. The French created this gorgeous colonial city of tree lined avenues, belle epoque villas, grand public buildings and an Opera house, all built around more than a dozen enchanting lakes. This graceful scene blends beautifully with its old quarter, a tangle of narrow streets, the commercial heart of the city for hundreds of years and now full of tiny shops, pagodas and the ever-present populace astride their bicycles and mopeds.

During our guided tour we also see the beautiful Temple of Literature dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s first university, and the imposing marble mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh himself, embalmed and eerily on display. This afternoon is free for you to explore this beautiful city as you wish. You could even visit a traditional water puppet show - a real spectacle where, as the name suggests, with the aid of fireworks and music, folk stories are played out by skilful puppeteers.

DAY 4 - HALONG BAY CRUISE Today we visit Vietnam’s greatest natural wonder, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay. Leaving Hanoi, we enter a timeless landscape of rice

Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue

123

Hanoi water puppets

paddies, following the Red River delta to the emerald seas of the Gulf of Tonkin. Just offshore, some 3,000 limestone islands and outcrops rise almost vertically from the sea, forming one of the most extraordinary and spectacular bays in the world.

As we board our converted Chinese junk and glide along the jade-green waters it’s not hard to imagine how the myths of their creation began: a dragon is said to have plunged into the sea and its thrashing tail sculpted the craggy islands. We visit some of the vast and beautifully illuminated caves and grottoes before having lunch on board. We return to Hanoi late afternoon.

DAY 5 - HUE Today we fly south to Danang and then drive over the stunning scenery of the Hai Van Pass before descending to Hue, Vietnam’s last royal capital and its traditional centre of religion, culture and education.

It’s one of the country’s most beautiful small towns, bisected by the serene Perfume River and dominated by its immense Citadel. This houses the ancient capital, encircled by an amazing 6 miles of high, 65 foot-thick walls and a moat.

Tonight we stay for two nights on bed and breakfast basis at the excellent five-star Imperial Hotel Hue. DAY 6 - HUE IMPERIAL CITY This morning we start with a leisurely river cruise to the magnificent seven-storied Thien Mu pagoda, a working Buddhist shrine, affording beautiful views towards the mountains on the border with Laos.

We then visit the incredible complex of the Citadel and within it, the Imperial City. We see the Palace of Supreme Harmony, which contained the emperor’s throne and was the site of the most important official ceremonies and functions. Everything is painted in the royal colours of red and gold and the whole building is a stunning example of the magnificent lifestyle enjoyed by the Vietnamese royal family.

In the afternoon we visit Emperor Tu Duc’s mausoleum. More interested in poetry than running the country, Tu Duc’s lifestyle suggests he had plenty of free time - he had 104 wives, 50-course meals and tea made from the dewdrops of lotus blossoms! It took 3,000 workers three years to build his amazing mausoleum, which includes a large lake, pavilions and a theatre. Lunch is included today and the evening is at leisure.

DAY 7 - SAIGON Today we fly to Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as the locals still insist on calling it. Brash and boisterous, it has real zest for life. Built virtually from scratch by the French, on a bend of the wide Saigon River, we stay three nights on bed and breakfast at the excellent, five-star Equatorial Hotel. Saigon is

124

Hue Imperial City

Vietnam’s culinary capital offering a very wide variety of excellent dining experiences, from top class restaurants in swish luxury hotels to French, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and Indian options, plus everything in between.

DAY 8 - CU CHI TUNNELS This will be a day to remember! We visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a complex underground network stretching for 200 kilometres, which included hospitals, meeting rooms, sleeping quarters and kitchens. Begun during the last years of French rule and vastly expanded during the 1960’s, the tunnels provided a base for the Vietcong from which to attack US forces within just 30 miles of Saigon. Our visit here is a fascinating insight into these times: we see the tunnels themselves and examples of the many mantraps and stake pits which protected them.

Despite being carpet-bombed, the tunnels were never really penetrated and should you wish, you may even try out real period weapons on a firing range.

We continue through rural farming communities back to Saigon. In the afternoon our city tour covers all the major sights including the colonial-style central post office, the cathedral and the Reunification Palace where famously in 1975, a tank burst through its gates in the final defining moment of the Vietnam War. We also see the War Remnants Museum and the lively Ben Thanh market, a fascinating insight into Saigon daily life - you can find anything here, all at extremely good prices!

DAY 9 - MEKONG RIVER DELTA Today we drive out of Saigon towards the great Mekong River delta. The first stop is at one of the many islands where we walk through a typical village

Halong Bay

Ta Prohm Temple

and try out several different types of tropical fruit that are grown in the area. Travelling in small boats we continue our exploration through the narrow canals by visiting the aptly named Coconut Island, where locals specialise in producing rice paper, coconut cakes and other local delicacies. Dappled sunlight filters through the wide leaves of the mangroves as we arrive at a typical local restaurant for lunch of local Mekong specialities, including the famous and delicious deepfried elephant ear fish! We return to Saigon in the afternoon.

DAY 10 - FLY TO PHNOM PENH Our last morning in Vietnam and we have just enough time for a morning walk round Saigon centre, a coffee and a delicious pastry in one of the many cafés before taking the short flight to Phnom Penh and our hotel, the centrally located four-star Palace Gate Hotel Phnom Penh for two nights on bed and breakfast.

DAY 11 - PHNOM PENH Today we’ll visit the majestic Royal Palace with its silver pagoda and the fascinating National Museum.

After lunch in a local restaurant, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum – originally a school, turned into the country’s most notorious prison by the Khmer Rouge, it now charts the terrible suffering during their occupation of the city. Finally there’s time for a stop at one of the local markets before we return to our hotel for the evening.

DAY 12 - FLY TO SIEM REAP We leave for the airport and our short flight to Siem Reap, staying three nights at the four-star superior Borei Angkor Resort & Spa, which has a large pool, spa and a choice of four dining outlets.

DAY 13 - ANGKOR Today we see the haunting soft morning light rise over the eerie temples of Angkor. Surrounded by jungle, shrouded in mist with a tropical dawn chorus reverberating in the air, this is something you will

never forget! We visit the huge fortified 13th century city of Angkor Thom, with its five monumental gates, and 300-foot wide moat - its centre containing one of Angkor’s most remarkable sites, the temple of Bayon. Crowned by over fifty towers, each with four enormous carved heads looking out in every direction, this is an awe-inspiring masterpiece of Khmer art. We’ll also visit the smaller temple of Ta Prohm which has been left in its natural, unrestored state, with giant tropical trees bursting through the ruins, their roots clinging like vast tentacles across the walls and roofs. After lunch at a local restaurant and late in the afternoon we see the massive temple of Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious structures in the world. The main entrance faces due west to catch the rose-red glow of the setting sun a truly magical time of day.

DAY 14 - FREE DAY IN SIEM REAP Today we have left free for you to return to the many monuments of Angkor, explore Siem Reap or relax around the attractive pool at the hotel. Alternatively, you could take an interesting tour to the nearby lake of Tonle Sap to visit a floating village (subject to season and water levels) or test your culinary skills by taking an optional half-day cooking class.

DAY 15 - RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your flight to London Heathrow via Saigon.

DAY 16 - ARRIVE BACK HOME From Heathrow you catch your connecting flight to Dublin.

LAOS EXTENSION On selected departures our tour continues to the beautiful ancient town of Luang Prabang in Laos for three nights.

DAY 15 – FLIGHT TO LAOS This afternoon we transfer to the airport for the short (1 hour 30 minutes) flight to Luang Prabang.

Our hotel stay with breakfast is at the three-star superior Luang Prabang View Hotel, located on a low hillside with wonderful views overlooking the town and verdant mountains beyond. The hotel offers a stunning pool, restaurant, bar, spa and regular shuttle into town. Our superior rooms have twin or

double beds, a bath with separate shower, hairdryer, safe, TV, tea- and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi. DAY 16 – LUANG PRABANG Situated in northern Laos at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, the small town of Luang Prabang is a UNESCO-protected area. As it was once an ancient royal capital and colonial town, it boasts a beautiful blend of gilded temples, French colonial architecture, traditional Lao houses and stunning natural beauty. After breakfast, our walking tour explores this amazing small town, renowned for its magnificent royal palace. We take a private boat ride upriver on the Mekong through lovely scenery to the Pak Ou caves. Set in a limestone cliff and filled with thousands of Buddha statues, this cave complex is one of the holiest sites in Lao with a history dating back thousands of years. We stop at riverside villages en-route to discover traditional rice wine-making and silk weaving.

After lunch on the boat, we visit the enchanting Wat Xieng Thong, an outstanding Buddhist temple featuring a spectacular mosaic of the tree of life, ornately carved walls and a magnificent funeral carriage. As dusk falls, the main street is closed to vehicles and the fascinating night market takes over, filled with bustling stalls selling delicious street food and colourful handicraft.

DAY 17 – LUANG PRABANG This morning you can witness, and even partake if you wish, in the early morning ritual of ‘Tak Bat’, or offering alms to the monks, a tradition providing some wonderful photo opportunities. You’ll also visit the lively market to see the locals shop for fresh produce. Not far from town is the picturesque Kuang Si waterfall, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the many turquoise pools and walk along the woodland trails. Just adjacent is the Bear Rescue Centre whose worthy mission is protecting the rare Asiatic black bear. We arrive back in Luang Prabang by lunchtime and the rest of the day is at leisure.

DAY 18 – RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your flight to London Heathrow via Hanoi.

DAY 19 – ARRIVE HOME From Heathrow you catch your connecting flight to Dublin.

125

NEW

JOURNEY ON THE MEKONG UPSTREAM: FROM SAIGON TO SIEM REAP 15 days from €3,919pp DOWNSTREAM: FROM SIEM REAP TO SAIGON 15 days from €3,579pp

Visit the major sights of Vietnam and Cambodia, the very essence of Indochina, experiencing their captivating blend of French colonial history, unique local culture and beautiful rural scenery.

Cruise along the mighty Mekong River through the heart of South East Asia and explore fascinating water-borne worlds, from rural villages to colourful markets. Step back in time as our journey unfolds through stunning countryside: farmers with conical hats work in fields that disappear into the distance, whilst water buffalo plough the paddies until the sun sets in a blood-red explosion of colour. Observe riverside life and the wooden houses balancing on stilts, as giggling children watch us go by.

We visit Cambodia including Siem Reap, gateway to one of the great wonders of the world – Angkor, once the world’s largest city with a staggering one million inhabitants and an incredible 200 temples.

We also dock in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, beautifully located at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap and considered the most beautiful of the ‘French’ colonial cities of Indochina.

In Vietnam, the people and landscape are different, and the pace of life is faster. See the legacies of past rulers – the Chinese, Khmers, Portuguese, Japanese and French – in an eclectic mix of temples and pagodas, along with palaces, mansions and neo-classical buildings. Today, the motorcycles and western dress of the industrious youth happily coexist with orange-clad Buddhist monks and political posters from a bygone era.

126

Now is the time to visit these captivating and colourful destinations while so much of this distinctive heritage remains. The best way to experience them is from the beautiful arterial waterway, the stunning Mekong River.

The ship The RV Mekong Prestige II is operated by a FrenchVietnamese joint venture and features 32 spacious staterooms. The décor is a fusion of contemporary Asian design with lots of polished teak, coupled with the intimate ambience and service of a boutique hotel.

Just imagine yourself relaxing in the large plunge pool as the ever-changing scenery of the Mekong slips by all around you.

With three decks, there is plenty of outdoor and indoor space in which to relax. At the very top of the ship is the spacious Sun Deck with a large plunge pool and plenty of sun loungers where you can relax under the awning or in the sun. Here you’ll find the best views of river life around the ship. The bar and comfortable, air-conditioned lounge are also on the same deck, as is the ship’s small spa and fitness room.

The restaurant located on the Upper Deck is bright and airy with fine linen and excellent service, and can accommodate all guests in one sitting.

Sun Deck, Mekong Prestige II

Your accommodation Staterooms Each stateroom features full-length panoramic sliding glass doors leading to your own private balcony. There is a luxury en-suite bathroom with shower, hairdryer and bathrobes, plus a writing desk, two armchairs with coffee table, personal safe and individually controlled air-conditioning.

All staterooms are very spacious at 20 square metres (215 square feet) including the French balcony, and feature twin beds which may be pushed together to create a double bed. You have a choice of Upper

The resplendent Royal Palace dominates the Phnom Penh skyline

PRICE INCLUDES • Seven nights aboard the four-star RV Mekong Prestige II in your choice of stateroom, all with private balconies and river views • All shore excursions, meals and selected drinks whilst on the cruise • Gaze in awe at the magnificent city and temples of Angkor, one of Asia’s greatest ancient sights • Stay in the heart of Saigon with its bustling waterfront and French colonial architecture • Tour Phnom Penh, the ‘Paris of the East’, with its golden temples and palaces • See the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels, a poignant reminder of the US-Vietnam conflict

• Visit the teeming floating market at Cai Be • Visit local communities to discover their unique way of life, unchanged in centuries • Experience the delights of exquisitely presented Vietnamese and Cambodian cuisine

Plus, of course...

•

•

•

Return scheduled flights via London Heathrow. Premium economy flight upgrades are available at a supplement Stay in hand-picked four-star superior hotels with breakfast The services of our experienced tour manager throughout

FROM €3,579PP

RV Mekong Prestige Ii

Deck staterooms and Main Deck staterooms, as well as a small selection of suites as described below.

Suites Junior Suites are 24 square metres (258 square feet) including a larger balcony, and are beautifully decorated. Located at the bow of the ship on the Main Deck, they feature a queen-size bed, full bathtub and separate shower.

Terrace Suites are 27 square metres (290 square feet) with the same facilities as the Junior Suites and are located on the Upper Deck.

Deluxe Stateroom

Dining on board Early risers can enjoy morning coffee or tea on the Sun Deck. Breakfast is a splendid array of tropical fruit, pastries, cereals, eggs from an omelette station and hot food, plus some exotic Asian options. Lunch is always a generous and informal buffet, while dinner is mostly a table d’hôte menu with a choice of starter and main course, and house wine included.

Complimentary tea and coffee are available all day, as are non-alcoholic soft drinks, local beer and local wines with dinner. Dinners on board feature a variety of freshly prepared, mouth-watering Cambodian and Vietnamese regional specialties plus international options, all extremely well-executed.

127

UPSTREAM CRUISE: FROM SAIGON TO SIEM REAP DAY 1 - DEPARTURE You should arrive at the airport for your overnight flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

DAY 2 - ARRIVAL IN SAIGON After your morning arrival, we’ll take an introductory tour of the city. Highlights include the Reunification Palace where famously in 1975, a tank burst through its gates in the final defining moment of the Vietnam War. We also see the War Remnants Museum and the lively Ben Thanh market – a fascinating insight into Saigon’s daily life, you can find anything here, all at extremely good prices! The Notre Dame Cathedral and the colonial-style central post office are marvellous photo opportunities. The rest of the day is at leisure.

We stay two nights with breakfast at the four-star superior Pullman Saigon Centre Hotel.

DAY 3 - SAIGON This will be a day to remember. We visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a complex underground network stretching for 124 miles, which included hospitals, meeting rooms, sleeping quarters and kitchens.

Begun during the last years of French rule and vastly expanded during the 1960s, the tunnels provided a base for the Vietcong from which to attack US forces within just 30 miles of Saigon. Our visit here is a fascinating insight into these troubled times: we see the tunnels themselves and examples of the many mantraps and stake pits which protected them.

Despite being carpet-bombed, the tunnels were never really penetrated and should you wish, you may even try out real period weapons on a firing range. We continue through rural farming communities back to Saigon in the afternoon.

DAY 4 - BOARD THE SHIP Expectations rise during our drive to the Mekong Delta, its coconut groves swaying with the breeze, the countryside studded with pagodas and an amazing network of paddy fields, tended by farmers bent double and almost completely covered by their iconic conical hats; these are some of Vietnam’s most enduring images.

Originally called Mae Khong, ‘Mother of all Rivers’, huge volumes of water drain from the hinterland plains and the snow-clad Chinese Himalayas, surging along an epic 3,000-mile journey. Life here revolves around its waterways: the imposing sampans so typical of South East Asia for hundreds of years and the quintessential floating markets of longboats, which almost sink under the groaning weight of colourful vegetables. Your cruise is the perfect way to discover and understand this fascinating and rapidly emerging corner of the world – a serene experience immersing you in its people and customs at a wonderfully gentle pace.

After a stop at the picturesque Cholon market and a lacquer workshop, you board the superb fourstar RV Mekong Prestige II. Your highly professional crew, imbibed by the unique service ethic you find everywhere here, ensure you settle in to your spacious and beautifully appointed cabin. After an excellent lunch, your journey begins. A wonderful reality soon sinks in with your first glimpses of the amazing stilted villages and teeming river traffic animating the scene seemingly at every turn. As darkness gently falls, take your seat in the restaurant for your first dinner, offering a choice of superbly executed Vietnamese

128

Ta Prohm Temple

Vietnamese conical hats

or Cambodian cuisine or international classics. The excellent cuisine is accompanied by tasty and included local wines, beers or soft drinks. Mooring at Cai Be, the day ends with a lovely performance of traditional Mekong music and perhaps a nightcap in the balmy late evening air, bathed by the unmistakable sounds of the East.

DAY 5 - CAO DAI TEMPLE This morning we sail by local junk along Cai Be’s waterfront and amazing floating market, where wily sellers dangle their wares from long poles to the myriad of smaller boats in a vibrant riot of colour and noisy bartering. We visit the remarkable French Gothic cathedral, a poignant reminder of Vietnam’s colonial past.

This afternoon we cruise through Vinh Long to Sa Dec with a guided stroll through the colourful local market – an interesting comparison with this morning. The highlight of the day is the intriguing Cao Dai Temple, centre of a unique indigenous religion, a fascinating combination of Taoism, Buddhism and Chinese Confucianism plus elements of Christianity,

Islam and spiritualism. Bizarrely, its saints include Joan of Arc, Napoleon, Shakespeare and Winston Churchill!

The temple itself is a striking combination of western and oriental architectural styles and mesmerising brightly coloured statues, overlooked by the religion’s all-seeing Divine Eye – it’s sure to leave you something to ponder after your visit.

Another tropical night atmospherically falls as we cruise upstream whilst enjoying another superb dinner and the kaleidoscope of truly amazing sights, sounds and scents, accompanied by the gentle waters lapping peacefully against the hull.

DAY 6 - TAN CHAU One of the great pleasures of river cruising is waking up somewhere completely different, and as dawn breaks, we are berthed in remote Tan Chau near Cambodia.

One of the delights of Vietnam is that so many cottage industries still thrive, offering a fascinating insight into the past. This morning we explore Tan Chau, Vietnam’s leading silk centre producing extremely high quality and truly beautiful naturally dyed clothes. Slipping our moorings, Vietnam slowly

We then visit the peaceful Vipassana Dhura Padoda, a revered place of meditation, nestling at the foot of Phnom Udong, a wooded hill with impressive Buddhist spiritual monuments towering above the trees, marking the final resting place of the Khmer kings. This afternoon we venture to Kampong Tralach (by ship, or overland on bus). Upon arrival we travel by traditional local ox cart, experiencing the leisurely pace of live stil pervading this wonderfully beautiful country to dicosver the charming monastery of Wat Kampong Leu Pagoda, renowned for its extraordinary beautiful wall paintings.

Apsara dancer

DAY 10 - KAMPONG CHHNANG Today we cruise into the heart of Cambodia which this vast river astonishingly changes its direction of flow between wet and dry seasons. A remarkable ecosystem here is home to 20,000 plants species, 1,200 birds, 800 of reptiles and amphibians, plus 430 mammals – with 1,300 new species having been discovered since 1997. Arriving at Kampong Chhnang a busy, rural port town noted for its bustling markets and mesmerising canal network. Time stands still here, featuring stilted timber houses you witness a slice of Cambodian rural life from a traditional long-tail boat.

recedes as we cross into Cambodia and continue into the evening with a chance to enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the lounge, before another tasty dinner. Take a stroll outside, look above and be dazzled by the luminosity of an amazing night sky, unfettered by streetlights and advertising as we cruise to Phnom Penh.

DAY 7 - PHNOM PENH Called the ‘Paris of the East’ during colonial times, Phnom Penh has preserved much of its wonderful rustic charm, elegance and French allure. Sightseeing includes an exciting cycle-rickshaw ride to the dazzling Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, followed by a chance to witness exceptionally beautiful Khmer craft in the National Museum. In homage to Cambodia’s tragic recent history, we next visit the haunting Tuol Sleng Genocide museum. Phnom Penh has some excellent markets offering fine silks, spices and high quality lacquer work, providing the perfect opportunity to hone your bargaining skills. This evening you will be entertained by a traditional Apsara performance, where talented silk-clad dancers will dazzle you with their graceful poise and intricate hand movements, originally designed to entertain the gods. We moor overnight, enabling easy exploration of the city late into the evening, where the bustling markets, teeming street restaurants and hawkers sell literally anything, enhancing the electric ambience so typical of the emerging Far East.

DAY 11 - SIEM REAP Early this morning our river cruiser glides to a final halt, berthed in Siem Reap at the head of this stunningly beautiful lake. We say our fond farewells to the splendid crew as you continue your exploration of Cambodia where you stay for three nights at the fourstar superior Borei Angkor Hotel with breakfast. It’s extremely comfortable with two restaurants, a large pool and spa. The rest of the day is at leisure.

DAY 12 - ANGKOR WAT Today we see the haunting soft morning light over the eerie temples of Angkor. Encircled by verdant steamy jungle, shrouded in mist and with a tropical dawn chorus reverberating in the air, this is something you will never forget. We visit the huge, fortified 13thcentury city of Angkor Thom with its five monumental gates and 91-metre wide moat; its centre contains one of Angkor’s most astonishing sites, the temple of Bayon. Crowned by over 50 towers, each with four colossal carved heads looking out in every direction, this is an extraordinary masterpiece of Khmer art.

One of the most intriguing sites is the smaller temple of Ta Prohm which has been left in its natural,

unrestored state, with giant tropical trees bursting through the ruins, their roots entwined like vast tentacles across the moss-covered, weathered walls and roofs. Late in the afternoon we see the immense temple of Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious structures in the world.

The main entrance faces west to catch the rose-red glow of the setting sun, a truly magical time of day.

DAY 13 - FREE DAY Our last full day in Cambodia is at leisure for you to enjoy the swimming pool and facilities of your hotel, or simply explore the excellent markets and restaurants of Siem Reap.

DAY 14 - RETURN FLIGHT At the appropriate time you transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), from where you connect with your return flight via London Heathrow.

DAY 15 - ARRIVE HOME You arrive home.

Angkor Wat

DAY 8 - PHNOM PENH After another delightful breakfast, we arrive at Chong Koh or Oknathey, a delightful silk weaving village visiting a particularly impressive pagoda before returning to Phnom Penh for an afternoon at leisure.

You can explore its intriguing corners such as Wat Phnom, symbol of the city, perhaps the remarkable Russian market, or just relax and absorb the teeming river life.

DAY 9 - OUDONG This morning by bus, we visit historic Oudong, the country’s former capital between 1618 and 1866.

129

DOWNSTREAM CRUISE: FROM SIEM REAP TO SAIGON

Rural life

DAY 1 – DEPARTURE You should arrive at the airport for your overnight flight to Siem Reap via Bangkok.

DAY 2 – ARRIVAL IN SIEM REAP After your late afternoon arrival, you check into the four-star superior Borei Angkor Resort & Spa Hotel for three nights with breakfast. Relax in your extremely comfortable hotel, take a refreshing swim in the large pool or satisfy your palate with a quick bite at one of the hotel’s two restaurants.

DAY 3 – ANGKOR WAT Today we see the haunting, soft morning light over the eerie temples of Angkor. Encircled by verdant steamy jungle, shrouded in mist and with a tropical dawn chorus reverberating in the air, this is something you will never forget. We visit the huge, fortified 13th-century city of Angkor Thom, with its five monumental gates and 91-metre-wide moat. Its centre contains one of Angkor’s most astonishing sites, the temple of Bayon – crowned by over 50 towers, each with four colossal carved heads looking out in every direction, this is an extraordinary masterpiece of Khmer art. One of the most intriguing sites is the smaller temple of Ta Prohm which has been left in its natural, un-restored state, with giant tropical trees bursting through the ruins, their roots entwined like vast tentacles across the moss-covered, weathered walls and roofs.

Late in the afternoon we see the immense temple of Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious structures in the world. The main entrance faces due west to catch the rose-red glow of the setting sun – a truly magical time of day.

DAY 4 – FREE DAY IN SIEM REAP The day is at leisure for you to enjoy the swimming pool and facilities of your hotel, or simply explore the excellent markets and restaurants of Siem Reap.

DAY 5 – BOARD THE SHIP Expectations rise during our morning drive to the Kampong Cham, where you board the superb fourstar RV Mekong Prestige II. Your highly professional crew, imbibed by the unique service ethic you find everywhere here, ensure you settle in to your spacious and beautifully appointed cabin. After a buffet lunch onboard, your journey on the remarkable Mekong begins. As the water levels on the Mekong can change, our own itinerary from days 5 to 7 may vary according to the date of travel. This description is based on a high-water itinerary.

DAY 6 – KAMPONG CHHNANG Today we cruise into the heart of Cambodia on this vast river which astonishingly changes its direction of flow between wet and dry seasons. A remarkable ecosystem here is home to 20,000 plants species, 1,200 birds, 800 of reptiles and amphibians, plus 430 mammals – with 1,300 new species having been discovered since 1997. Arriving at Kampong Chhnang a busy, rural port town noted for its bustling markets and mesmerising canal network. This afternoon by bus we visit historic Oudong, the country’s former capital between 1618 and 1866. We then visit the peaceful Vipassana Dhura Pagoda, a revered place of meditation, nestling at the foot of Phnom Udong, a wooded hill with impressive Buddhist spiritual

130

monuments towering above the trees, marking the final resting place of the Khmer kings. Time stands still here, featuring stilted timber houses you witness a slice of Cambodian rural life from a traditional longtail boat.

DAY 7 – PHNOM PENH This morning we arrive at Chong Koh or Oknathey, a delightful silk weaving village, walking at leisure as well as viewing a particularly impressive pagoda.

This afternoon we sail to Phnom Penh. Called the ‘Paris of the East’ during colonial times, Phnom Penh has preserved much of its wonderful rustic charm, elegance and French allure. Take the afternoon at leisure to explore its intriguing corners such as Wat Phnom, symbol of the city after which the city was named.

This evening you will be entertained by a traditional Apsara performance, where talented silk-clad dancers dazzle you with their graceful poise and intricate hand movements, originally designed to entertain the gods.

Phnom Penh has some excellent markets offering fine silks, spices and high-quality lacquer work, providing the perfect opportunity to hone your bargaining skills.

We moor overnight, enabling easy exploration of the city where late into the evening, the bustling markets, teeming street restaurants and hawkers selling literally anything, enhance the vibrant and electric ambience so typical of the emerging Far East.

DAY 8 – PHNOM PENH Today’s sightseeing includes an exciting visit to the dazzling, white-and-gold Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, followed by a chance to witness exceptionally

beautiful Khmer craft in the National Museum. In homage to Cambodia’s tragic recent history, this afternoon we visit the haunting Tuol Sleng Genocide museum. Alternatively, perhaps visit the remarkable Russian market, or just relax and catch up on some reading or simply absorb the teeming river life.

Buddhist monk

DAY 9 – CROSSING INTO VIETNAM Slipping our moorings, Cambodia slowly recedes as we cross into Vietnam, passing timeless villages and river life with extensive fishing activities.

DAY 10 – TAN CHAU One of the great pleasures of river cruising is waking up somewhere completely different and as dawn breaks, we are berthed in remote Tan Chau. One of the delights of Vietnam is that so many cottage industries still thrive, offering a fascinating insight into the past. This morning we explore Tan Chau, Vietnam’s leading silk centre producing extremely high quality and truly beautiful, naturally dyed clothes.

Following an exciting rickshaw ride around the town, we are taken back to lunch on board as our leisurely navigation continues.

DAY 11 – CAO DAI TEMPLE Awake in Sa Dec, where we take a guided stroll through the colourful local market. The highlight of the day though, is the intriguing Cao Dai Temple, centre of a unique indigenous religion, a fascinating combination of Taoism, Buddhism and Chinese Confucianism plus elements of Christianity, Islam and spiritualism. Bizarrely, its saints include Joan of Arc, Napoleon, Shakespeare and Winston Churchill!

The temple itself is a striking combination of western and oriental architectural styles and mesmerising brightly coloured statues, overlooked by the religion’s all-seeing Divine Eye – it’s sure to leave you something to ponder after your visit.

This afternoon we cruise through Vinh Long, arriving at Cai Be, and sail by local junk ships along the waterfront to see the amazing floating market, where wily sellers tantalisingly dangle their wares from long

poles to the myriad of smaller boats in a vibrant riot of colour and noisy bartering. We also visit the remarkable French Gothic cathedral, a poignant reminder of Vietnam’s colonial past.

Another tropical night atmospherically falls as we cruise downstream and enjoy our last another superb dinner, an experience enhanced by traditional music, the kaleidoscope of amazing sights, sounds and scents, and the gentle waters lapping peacefully against the hull.

Traditional fishnet casting

examples of the many mantraps and stake pits which protected them. Despite being carpet-bombed, the tunnels were never penetrated, and should you wish, you may try out real period weapons on a firing range.

We continue through rural farming communities back to Saigon, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

DAY 14 – RETURN FLIGHT You should arrive at the airport for your overnight flight home via London Heathrow.

DAY 12 – SAIGON Early this morning the Mekong Prestige II glides to a DAY 15 – ARRIVE HOME final halt, berthing in My Tho. After breakfast, we say You arrive home. our fond farewells to the splendid crew and continue our exploration of Vietnam. After a stop at the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica picturesque Cholon market and a lacquer workshop, we journey to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) where we stay for two nights at the four-star superior Pullman Saigon Centre Hotel.

We take an introductory tour of the city, seeing highlights including the Reunification Palace where famously in 1975, a tank burst through its gates in the final defining moment of the Vietnam War. We also see the War Remnants Museum and get a glimpse into daily Saigon life at the lively Ben Thanh market, where you can find anything here at extremely good prices. The Notre Dame Cathedral and the colonial-style central post office here provide marvellous photo opportunities.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

DAY 13 – SAIGON This will be a day to remember – we visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a complex underground network stretching for 124 miles which included hospitals, meeting rooms, sleeping quarters and kitchens. Begun during the last years of French rule and vastly expanded during the 1960s, the tunnels provided a base for the Vietcong from which to attack US forces within just 30 miles of Saigon. Our visit here is a fascinating insight into these troubled times: we see the tunnels themselves and

131

J A PA N LAND OF THE RISING SUN 13 days from only €3,919pp

Discover the very best of Japan’s stunning temples and shrines, intriguing pagodas, manicured gardens, fast-paced cities, incredible cuisine and outstanding natural beauty.

Japan - an ancient culture of emperors, fierce shoguns, samurais and brutal martial arts. Yet it’s also a place of gentle geishas, colourful kimonos, exquisite garden design and Zen Buddhism. How did a country so deeply rooted in such diverse heritage become one of the most modern and advanced economies on the planet? Pondering such questions is what makes a trip to Japan so incredibly rewarding. Having travelled there once, you’ll feel almost hypnotically drawn back to this truly enigmatic country.

Japan’s roots lie in an ancient feudal culture, with many customs from these times still pervading modern society. The Portuguese and Jesuit missionaries arrived in the 16th century and by all accounts, they were initially treated well, mainly because the Japanese were impressed with their new technology – firearms. Despite trading together successfully for nearly a century, Christianity and western ideas were deemed to be undermining the social order and the Portuguese were expelled. All contact with outsiders was banned for over 200 years.

132

The only country on earth to have been so completely isolated from all external influences, Japanese art and culture developed in its own unique way, until pressure from the US finally broke down the barriers in the 1850s.

It’s this unique development of its culture which makes Japan so utterly fascinating today. Inevitably, we harbour preconceptions about its complex etiquette, but you need not worry! The Japanese are a truly welcoming people and allowances are made for us ‘strange’ foreigners! Our tour is designed so you not only see the best of Japan, but come home having started to understand it.

Our tour covers three of Japan’s capitals, both past and present. You’ll ride on a high speed bullet train past iconic Mt. Fuji, one of the most instantly recognisable places on the planet. You’ll have the option to stay at a typical Japanese inn, bathe in a hot spring, and see the spot where the first atom bomb was detonated. With longer stays in both Tokyo and Kyoto, you’ll have a unique opportunity to get

PRICE INCLUDES • See the famous sights of Tokyo including the Meiji shrine, Omotesando Street, fashion-setting Harajuku and the Akihabara electronic town • Enjoy astonishing views of Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi and the hot spring, mountain spa resort of Hakone • Travel at 189mph on the incomparable, high-speed bullet trains • Reflect on the horrors of war at Hiroshima’s Peace Park and museum • Explore Kyoto on a guided tour, experiencing the former imperial capital and the essence of traditional Japan • Discover Nara, Japan’s first capital with its huge bronze Buddha, on a guided tour

Plus, of course...

•

•

•

Return scheduled flights via London Heathrow with premium economy upgrades available at a supplement Stay in hand-picked four-star accommodation, with daily breakfast and three meals The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

FROM €3,919PP

Immerse yourself in a truly fascinating culture

right under the skin of this extraordinary country.

In Tokyo – the archetypal mega-city – you’ll see its most fascinating districts, including the shopping and entertainment mecca of Ginza. It might sometimes seem as if its entire thirteen million inhabitants are all simultaneously trying to get on the same metro train – but everything runs on time and everyone is faultlessly polite. The mountains north of the city are home to one of Japan’s most scenic areas, Nikko National Park, relatively unknown outside Japan.

Surrounded by breathtaking lakes, waterfalls, forests and hot springs, you’ll visit one of the country’s most extraordinary shrines - dedicated to one of its greatest Shogun warriors.

Kyoto, the capital city for over a thousand years - and still considered to be its cultural heart - has carefully retained far more of historical Japan than any other major city. With exquisite shrines, temples, Zen gardens and traditional handicrafts such as ceramics, lacquer-ware, calligraphy and woodblock prints, Kyoto is a treasure-trove waiting to be discovered. We have

four nights here and a whole day free in the city, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore to your heart’s content. You might visit a private home discovering the traditional arts of origami, flower arranging or Japanese cuisine, or opt to spend an unforgettable night in a ‘Ryokan’, a typical Japanese inn. We also visit Nara, Japan’s first capital, dating back to the eighth century. Here, traditional culture first took root and it is famous for its great Buddhist monuments and time-honoured festivals.

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Experience traditional Japanese culture Tea ceremony Discover the ‘Way of Tea’ and familiarise yourself with its history, as well as its essential elements. Under the guidance of your host, you can try preparing a cup of tea. From €42pp.

Kimono experience Learn all about the traditional Japanese kimono and the intricate art of tailoring one, as well as the type of fabrics, dyes, weaving techniques and patterns used.

You’ll have the opportunity to try one on.

From €42pp.

Tea ceremony & kimono experience Combine the tea ceremony with the kimono experience. From €73pp.

Flower arrangement Learn how to bring flowers to life through ikebana, which emphasises the beauty of space and incorporates branches in addition to flowers and leaves. Bookable locally.

Origami paper-folding Get to know origami, the traditional art of folding paper into small sculptures.

From €42pp.

Japanese calligraphy Discover shodo, the ‘way of writing’ with a brush, ink and washi paper. During this lesson, you’ll try your hand at calligraphy and take home your creation, a lovely souvenir. From €42pp.

Sushi-making workshop Learn about Japan’s culinary customs as your instructor demonstrates the traditional ways of preparing sushi.

From €62pp.

Teriyaki chicken cooking lesson Your instructor will show you what it takes to make a superb sauce and how to cook the chicken perfectly. From €62pp.

Stay in a traditional ryokan inn Rooms typically feature charming tatami mats and a Japanese-style futon bed. To complete your stay, you’ll enjoy a beautifully prepared kaiseki dinner.

From €139pp.

Travel at 189 mph on the bullet train

133

DAY 3 - TOKYO This morning we commence the exploration of Japan’s capital and largest city. At first glance, Tokyo might seem similar to other great Asian cities like Singapore or Shanghai, with its gleaming glass skyscrapers and busy, fashionable shops. But you’ll soon begin to notice some of the many fascinating differences – like the spotlessly clean and surprisingly quiet streets.

There’s no beeping of horns here, that would be far too impolite!

Our first stop is the famous Shinto Meiji shrine, dedicated to one of its past emperors. Set in outstandingly lush parkland, this is a working religious site where you may be lucky enough to see a typical Japanese marriage underway. Then we move on to some of Tokyo’s most renowned quarters, including Omotesando Street, Tokyo’s ‘Rodeo Drive’, full of luxury brand shops. Then there’s the Harajuku area where teenagers sport the latest outrageous fashions and the Akihabara electronic town, home to one of the first stores devoted to personal robots. We savour some Japanese cuisine at our included lunch.

Hiroshima is forever destined to be synonymous with the world’s first use of an atomic bomb. Your visit to the Peace Memorial Park and museum, with the shattered remains of the nearby dome marking the epicentre of the resultant blast, will be an unforgettable experience.

Japan, like Europe, has four very distinct and wonderful seasons. Winter can be very cold, but springtime, with pink cherry blossom hanging heavy on millions of trees, is considered a great time to visit. May and June are quieter and warmer, with flowers and plants in full bloom in countless gardens.

July and August are the festival months, time of colourful processions, whilst autumn is breathtaking, with the vibrant red and orange hues of maple trees everywhere you look.

Japanese food is increasingly being rightfully recognised as one of the world’s great cuisines and it goes way beyond just sushi… with teppanyaki, teriyaki, sashimi, yakitori, udon noodles, and a huge variety of sake rice wine. Utilising the freshest possible ingredients cooked without oils, fats or butter, it is a revelation. Even the famous “bento box” packed lunches, available at any railway station, are wonderful to look at, very tasty and excellent value.

Despite what you may have heard, restaurants in Japan are certainly no more expensive than at home.

So place preconceptions aside and visit Japan on the tour of a lifetime. Prepare for wonderful service, the world’s politest people and a true assault on the senses. Immerse yourself in this extraordinary culture of contrasts, where the neon lights and gadgetry of huge futuristic cities live side by side with thousandyear old ceremonies, shrines and hot spas.

DAY 4 – TOKYO This morning we visit Tokyo’s Asakusa district. Full of traditional small houses and shops, it’s a unique insight into the Tokyo of a hundred years ago. We will then transfer by boat down the Sumida River to Ginza, widely recognised as one of the world’s most luxurious shopping destinations. It’s brimming with ultra-modern department stores, boutiques, restaurants and coffee houses. Your afternoon is free to shop, explore, or perhaps indulge in some fascinating people-watching.

Another option is to head to the Tokyo National Museum, just a few stops on the metro. Here you’ll find the world’s largest collection of Japanese art, with pottery, painting and prints, textiles, fashion and oriental antiquities.

DAY 5 - MOUNT FUJI & HAKONE Saying goodbye to Tokyo we drive towards Mount Fuji, probably Japan’s most instantly recognisable sight. Fringed by thick forests and a crescent-shaped ring of shimmering lakes, we are presented with one of the world’s greatest and most spectacular views.

We visit two of these beautiful lakes to give you the best chance of appreciating and enjoying the stunning panorama from two different angles – and some of life’s most amazing photo opportunities. Our first stop is at Lake Kawaguchi, well known to the Japanese but as yet undiscovered by most foreign visitors. Next we head south to explore the fascinating mountain resort of Hakone. Descending to the smooth dark

DAY 1 - DEPARTURE Fly to Tokyo via London Heathrow.

DAY 2 - ARRIVAL IN TOKYO On our arrival, we transfer to our hotel, the excellent four-star superior New Otani, for three nights with breakfast. Perfectly located in the heart of Tokyo, close to the Japanese parliament, the nearest metro stop is just a couple of minutes’ walk allowing you explore at ease (all station names are given in English). In addition to a wide variety of dining options the hotel has a charming traditional garden. The air-conditioned Garden Tower rooms have hairdryer, TV, safe and minibar. This afternoon we have our first taste of Tokyo with a short orientation walk in the surrounding area, with rest of your first day to relax after the flight.

134

Hiroshima

blue waters of Lake Ashi, we take a cruise on a rather unusual Japanese version of an early 19th-century pirate ship. From here, especially on a clear day, the views of Mt Fuji are one of the world’s greatest panoramas.

Arriving at the four-star Hakone Hotel, we stay for one night with breakfast and dinner. The entire area here is geo-thermally active, and provides the perfect opportunity to try one of Japan’s unmissable experiences – bathing in an ‘onsen’, a hot spring at our very own hotel.

DAY 6 - BULLET TRAIN This morning we travel to Hiroshima on Japan’s iconic gleaming white bullet train. With reclining seats, plenty of legroom, air conditioned comfort and speeds up to 189 mph, this is an incomparable way to travel.

Arriving at lunchtime, we’re on our way to one of the country’s most distinctive views on the nearby small island of Miyajima. A huge red ‘Torii’ gate sits just offshore; widely celebrated, at high tide it appears to float between the sea and sky. This popular little island is easy to explore on foot. It has a relaxed holiday atmosphere, lots of interesting shops and a covered market. Returning to Hiroshima, we stay for two nights at the four-star superior Sheraton Hiroshima, with breakfast.

DAY 7 – HIROSHIMA There’s a sobering reminder of the horrors of war this morning as we visit Hiroshima’s Peace Park and museum, displaying the remains of the only building to survive the atomic bomb blast of August 1945. The city has been completely rebuilt and there are no signs left of the devastation of that fateful day. Yet you may notice a small digital counter indicating the number of days since the last atomic test – it’s surprisingly recent. Your afternoon is at leisure to experience this charming city.

Finally we take a walking tour through Kyoto’s Gion district. Here is the classic image of Japan; streets of wooden houses, the unmistakable sound of wooden sandals reverberating on the pavements, bright, silk-clad geishas, cherry trees and a host of traditional restaurants.

DAY 10 - NARA Capital city before Kyoto, Nara is just a few miles south. Firstly we see one of the country’s most iconic shrines, made from thousands of red Torii gates forming two extraordinary vermilion-coloured wooden tunnels up a hillside. Arriving at Nara you’ll be greeted by the dozens of tame deer considered for centuries to be messengers of the gods. The main sight though is the amazing Todai-ji temple, astonishingly the world’s largest wooden structure.

Housing a huge bronze Buddha, this is a truly inspiring sight and just one of Nara’s several UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Miyajima

DAY 8 – KYOTO Leaving Hiroshima by coach, we head towards the old imperial capital of Kyoto. En route we’ll visit the superb Korakuen garden at Okayama – built in 1700 and renowned as one of Japan’s most exquisite gardens, with lawns, lakes, wooden bridges and shrines and teahouses! We use good, centrally located four-star hotels for your four-night stay with breakfast in Kyoto: the Century Hotel or New Miyako Hotel.

DAY 9 – KYOTO This morning is one of the real highlights of the tour as we explore some of the overwhelming treasures of Japan’s most revered city. First is the spectacular and beautiful Golden Pavilion, dating from the classical Muromachi age of Japanese temple design, perfectly

overlooking its lake and garden. The whole of the upper floors, covered in gold leaf, glow in the morning light with an almost blinding intensity. Nearby is the Ryoan-ji temple, or the Temple of the Dragon at Peace, home to Japan’s most famous Zen garden, consisting of fifteen rocks surrounded by white gravel carefully raked by monks daily. As a complete change, we then move on to the amazing Arashiyama bamboo forest – experiencing an almost other-worldly feel as the light streams through the tall green columns of bamboo, up to 30 feet high!

Yet another iconic Kyoto monument is next – Nijo Castle. Set at the heart of the city and built in the 17th century, it’s famous for its wooden floors remarkably designed to creak like a nightingale’s song, thus warning its occupants of any impending stealthy attack!

DAY 11 - FREE DAY IN KYOTO You’re free today to explore and discover the many delights and attractions of Kyoto. There are still more enchanting temples to see - like the 15th century Silver Pavilion and the even older Eikando temple, marvels of architectural and garden design within an easy walk of each other along the charming Philosopher’s Path. Other delightful options are a lesson in origami, dressing as a geisha or learning to cook a typical Japanese meal. All of these unique experiences can be arranged by your tour manager during the tour or you can pre-book them – see our Personalise Your Holiday section on the previous spread. These are a wonderful way to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

Tonight you also have the option of staying in a ryokan, a typical Japanese inn. You’ll sleep on a rolled out futon with tatami matting on the floor. You’ll also enjoy a traditional ‘kaiseki’ multi-course dinner.

Beautifully prepared and served, it’s just as stunning to look at as it is to eat. This is subject to availability and needs to be pre-booked, please mention at time of booking.

DAY 12 - BULLET TRAIN After a last free morning at leisure, we take our bullet train to Tokyo staying overnight at the four-star Excel Tokyu near the airport.

DAY 13 - RETURN FLIGHT Fly home today via London Heathrow.

135

PRICES & DEPARTURES EUROPE I TA LY NEW Umbria, Perugia & Assisi......................................................... 137 Pompeii, Capri & the Bay of Naples............................................... 137 Lake Como, St Moritz & the Bernina Express............................ 137 Lake Garda, Venice & Verona............................................................ 137 Lake Maggiore, Orta & the Matterhorn....................................... 138 Puglia, Lecce & Vieste: Undiscovered Italy................................ 138 Classical Italy: Florence, Siena, Assisi & Rome........................ 138 Hidden Italy: Padova, Vicenza & Mantova................................. 138 Sicily............................................................................................................... 139 S PA I N NEW Spain’s Basque Country, La Rioja & Burgos.................... 139 Classical Spain: Seville, Córdoba & Granada (plus ).......................................................................... 139 Madrid, Salamanca & Toledo............................................................. 140 P O RT U G A L Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley................................................... 140 C ROAT I A Dubrovnik, the Dalmatian Coast & Montenegro.................... 140

FR A N C E Timeless Provence....................................................................................141 S W I T ZE R L A N D Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland.......................................................141 GERMANY Berlin, Dresden, Meissen & Colditz ............................................... 142 S C A N D I N AV I A Iceland........................................................................................................... 142 Norway......................................................................................................... 142 POLAND Krakow.......................................................................................................... 142 M A LTA Malta Uncovered...................................................................................... 142 C Y PRUS Discover Northern Cyprus.................................................................. 142

AUS T R I A & T H E C ZEC H R E PU B L I C Lakes & Mountains of Austria............................................................141 Prague, Vienna, Bohemia & the Danube Valley........................141

WORLDWIDE J O R DA N NEW Jordan & Petra.............................................................................. 143 A FR I C A South Africa................................................................................................ 143 THE AMERICAS Deep South USA plus Texas .............................................................. 144 Peru with Amazon................................................................................... 149

136

ASIA India & Shimla........................................................................................... 145 NEW Sri Lanka plus Maldives cruise.............................................. 146 Vietnam & Cambodia............................................................................ 147 NEW Journey on the Mekong............................................................ 148 Japan: Land of the Rising Sun............................................................ 149

UMBRIA, PERUGIA & ASSISI

LAKE GARDA,VENICE & VERONA

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Price

Departure Dates

Brione 3*

Savoy 4*

Kristal 4*

Europa 4*

Portici 4*

Antico Borgo 4*

Dublin

18/09/19

Ryanair

06:50

Rome - Ciampino

23:15

2hrs.55

€1,169

13/05/19 19/08/19 16/09/19

€889 €1,099 €1,029

€1,119 €1,309 €1,239

€1,279 €1,489 €1,359

€1,089 €1,199 €1,149

€1,019

€989

€1,119

€1,049

Transfer Times

Flight Details Rome Ciampino Airport

Transfer between airport/hotel 2hrs 30 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Perugia Airport

Airport

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

30 mins

Dublin

Ryanair

06:15

Milan Bergamo

11:40

2hrs.30

Transfer Times Milan Bergamo Airport

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement from €269. The price includes return flights, seven nights’ accommodation with breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, a local restaurant lunch, entrances to Perugina Chocolate Factory & Museum, Frasassi Caves, Orvieto funicular, boat trip on Lake Trasimeno, and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Between airport & hotel 2 hrs 30 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on the number of hotel stops and traffic.

Lake View & Single Room Supplements Supplements

Lake View

Balcony

Single Room

Brione 3* Europa 4* €119 Savoy 4* Kristal 4* Portici 4* Antico Borgo 4* €69 These room supplements are priced per person, subject to availability.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

DINING CHOICES Pre-bookable hotel dining option available – three nights at €99 per person.

€239 €139 €179 €219 €139 €219

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms and Lake View rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

NOT INCLUDED Optional cable car on Dolomites tour €17, approximate cost, payable locally.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

POMPEII, CAPRI & THE BAY OF NAPLES Date

Villa Maria 3*

La Badia 3*

Vue D’Or 3* Superior

Cesare Augusto 3*

Michelanglo 4*

Grand Europa 4*

03/05/19 21/06/19 27/09/19 11/10/19

€1,169 €1,189 €1,289 €1,119

€1,319 €1,309 €1,349 €1,249

€1,289 €1,289 €1,329 €1,209

€1,359 €1,359 €1,369 €1,249

€1,439 €1,429 €1,449 €1,329

€1,439 €1,459 €1,459 €1,339

Aminta Mediteraneo 4* Superior 4* €1,449 €1,499 €1,519 €1,359

€1,459 €1,819 €1,819 €1,449

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Verona Opera Festival from €68 per person for a stone seat (area D/E). Please note the festival is an open-air event and, in the case of inclement weather, refunds on the cost of the ticket are available only under exceptional circumstances and the decision lies with the organisers. No refunds will be given on transport to and from Verona.

Flight Details Airport

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Dublin

Aer Lingus

07:10

Naples

14:45

3hrs.20

Transfer Times Naples Airport Between airport & hotel 1 hr 30 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on the number of hotel stops and traffic.

Sea-Facing & Single Room Supplements Supplements

Sea Facing Room (with balcony)

Sea Facing Room (no balcony)

Side Sea Facing Room (with balcony)

Villa Maria 3* €109 €99 La Badia 3* €59 Vue D'or 3* Superior €109 Cesare Augusto 3* Grand Europa 4* €199 Aminta 4* Superior €319 These room supplements are priced per person, subject to availability.

Standard Room (Main Building)

Single Room €239 €149 €219

€ 39

LAKE COMO, ST MORITZ & THE BERNINA EXPRESS Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Hotel

Price

Dublin

25/04/19 28/05/19 11/06/19 22/08/19 19/09/19 03/10/19

Ryanair

06:15 06:15 06:15 06:15 09:25 06:15

Milan Bergamo

15:10 15:10 15:10 11:40 15:10 11:40

2hrs.30 2hrs.30 2hrs.30 2hrs.30 2hrs.30 2hrs.30

Cadenabbia Regina Olga Regina Olga Cadenabbia Menaggio Cadenabbia

€1,239 €1,329 €1,319 €1,309 €1,289 €1,229

Transfer Times Milan Bergamo Airport Between airport & Regina Hotel 1 hr 30 mins Between airport & Cadenabbia Hotel / Menaggio Hotel 2 hrs Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on the number of hotel stops and traffic.

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin room. Single and sea facing rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Naples museum and the services of a Riviera tour manager.

NOT INCLUDED There will be a charge for swimming pool towels of €2 per towel per day at the Vue D’Or, Villa Maria and the La Badia. Occasionally the opening times of the places of interest varies, and if this happens we may change the order of visits, however the overall content will not be reduced.

PLEASE NOTE The Hotel Mediterraneo will be on a bed & breakfast basis.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

Lake View & Single Room Supplements Supplements

Single Supplement

Cadenabbia 4* €159 Menaggio 4* €239 Regina Olga 4* €199 These rooms are priced per person, subject to availability.

Lake View Room

Lake View Room with Balcony

€119 €159 €159

€309

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single and lake view rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to Villa del Balbianello and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

PLEASE NOTE Whilst we do our best to ensure an exceptional experience, the views from the lake view rooms may at times be partially obstructed. If in doubt please call to enquire.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

137

LAKE MAGGIORE, ORTA & THE MATTERHORN

CLASSICAL ITALY: FLORENCE, SIENA, ASSISI & ROME

Departure Dates

Astoria 4*

Grand Hotel Bristol 4*

Regina Palace 4*

17/09/19

€1,319

€1,409

€1,459

Flight Details Airport

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Dublin

Ryanair

06:15

Milan Bergamo

15:10

2hrs.30

Transfer Times Milan Malpensa Airport

Single Supplement

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

2nd Hotel

Price

15/05/19 04/09/19

Ryanair

06:50 06:50

Rome Ciampino

13:35 13:35

3hrs.10 3hrs.10

Piram Eurostars

€1,179 €1,179

Transfer Times Rome Ciampino Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 3 hrs 2nd Hotel to Airport 45 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement from €279 per person. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation, breakfast and four dinners (on the first four nights), all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to the Uffizi gallery and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Lake View & Single Room Supplements Lake View

Astoria 4* €289 Grand Hotel Bristol 4* €239 Regina Palace 4* €279 These room supplements are priced per person, subject to availability.

Date

Dublin

PRICE INCLUDES

Between airport & hotel 1 hr 15 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on the number of hotel stops and traffic.

Supplements

Departure Airport

€89

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single and lake view rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to Borromeo Villa and Gardens, and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

Twilight Trastevere Food Tour from €92 per person, tour the Vatican museums and Sistine Chapel from €49 per person.

NOT INCLUDED Matterhorn cable car, approximate cost €70, payable locally in Swiss Francs.

PLEASE NOTE Whilst we do our best to ensure an exceptional experience, the views from the lake view rooms may at times be partially obstructed. If in doubt please call to enquire.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

PUGLIA, LECCE & VIESTE Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

3rd Hotel

Price

Dublin

20/05/19 17/06/19 16/09/19 14/10/19

Ryanair

15:55 15:55 15:55 15:55

Bari

23:10 23:10 23:10 23:10

3hrs.25 3hrs.25 3hrs.25 3hrs.25

Degli Aranci Degli Aranci Palace Vieste Palace Vieste

€1,239 €1,249 €1,249 €979

HIDDEN ITALY: PADOVA, VICENZA & MANTOVA Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Price

Dublin

02/05/19 17/09/19

Ryanair

14:00 14:00

Venice - Treviso

19:55 19:55

2hrs.30 2hrs.30

€859 €879

Transfer Times

Transfer Times Bari Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 2 hrs 30 mins 2nd Hotel to Airport 3 hrs Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Venice Treviso Airport Transfer between airport & hotel 35 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

PRICE INCLUDES

PRICE INCLUDES

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement of €199 per person. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, a light lunch, three dinners at local restarurants, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms and are subject to availability at a supplement from €149 per person. The price includes return flights, five nights' accommodation with breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

138

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

SICILY Departure Airport Dublin

CLASSICAL SPAIN: SEVILLE, CÓRDOBA & GRANADA

Date

Airline

14/05/19 18/06/19 10/09/19 08/10/19

Aer Lingus

Outbound Arrival Dep Time Airport 17:15 Catania 17:15 17:15 17:15

Return Arrival 01:30 01:30 01:30 01:30

Flight Duration 3hrs.40 3hrs.40 3hrs.40 3hrs.40

1st Hotel

2nd Hotel

Price

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

3rd Hotel

Price

Kaos Baia Ulisse Kaos Kaos

St Alphio St Alphio St Alphio Baia Taormina

€1,319 €1,319 €1,339 €1,299

Belfast Int Dublin

15/09/19 04/04/19 14/05/19 18/09/19

EasyJet Ryanair

16:35 07:20 08:50 10:05

Malaga Malaga

23:30 17:30 13:10 15:45

3hrs.05 3hrs.05 3hrs.05 3hrs.05

Corona Alixares Corona Alixares

€919 €859 €959 €989

Transfer Times

Transfer Times Catania Airport

Airport to 1st Hotel Hotel Sant Alphio Garden to Airport Hotel Excelsior/Hotel Baia Taormina to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Malaga Airport

2 hrs 30 mins 45 mins 1 hr

Airport to 1st Hotel 3rd Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

PRICE INCLUDES

Sea View & Single Room Supplements Supplements

Baia Toarmina

30 mins 2 hrs 15 mins

Kaos

Sant Alphio Garden

Standard Single Supplement €189 €189 €209 Sea View (with Balcony or Terrace) €69 These room supplements are priced per person, subject to availability. Please note when booking a Side Sea/Etna View room, we are unable to guarantee which view you will be allocated.

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement from €219 per person. The price includes return flights, six nights' accommodation with breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrances to the Alhambra and Mezquita and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

NOT INCLUDED Entrance to Alcazar €9.50, Seville Cathedral €9, approximate costs, payable locally.

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single and sea view rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrances to Valley of the Temples, Villa at Piazza Armerina and Monreale and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager. Occasionally the opening times of the places of interest vary, and if this happens we may have to change the order of events. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Authentic flamenco show in Seville from €33 per person.

NOT INCLUDED Costs for Mount Etna exploration are: cable car €30; cable car, jeep and compulsory guide €63, Ortygia boat trip €10, approximate costs, payable locally.

PLEASE NOTE Whilst we do our best to ensure an exceptional experience, the views from the sea view rooms may at times be partially obstructed. If in doubt please call to enquire.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

SPAIN'S BASQUE COUNTRY, LA RIOJA & BURGOS Departure Airport Dublin

Date

Airline

05/06/19 Aer Lingus

SOLO CLASSICAL SPAIN: SEVILLE, CÓRDOBA & GRANADA Exclusive Departures for Solo Travellers

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

3rd Hotel

Price

13:05

Bilbao

17:40

2hrs.00

Coliseo Bilbao

€1,209

Departure Airport Dublin

03/04/19

Airline Ryanair

Outbound Dep Time

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

3rd Hotel

Price

Exclusive for Solo Travellers 10:05 Malaga 13:10

Arrival Airport

3hrs.05

Corona

€1,139

Transfer Times

Transfer Times Bilbao Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 2nd Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Date

1 hr 35 mins 30 mins

Malaga Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 3rd Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

30 mins 2 hrs 15 mins

PRICE INCLUDES

PRICE INCLUDES

The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement from €399. The price includes return flights, seven nights’ accommodation with breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to Guggenheim Museum, Burgos Cathedral, Altamira Cave Museum and La Rhune Railway and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

The price of this holiday is per person, based on a double/twin room for sole occupancy. The price includes return flights, six nights' accommodation with breakfast, a welcome dinner, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrances to the Alhambra and Mezquita and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

NOT INCLUDED Entrance to Alcazar €9.50, Seville Cathedral €9, approximate costs, payable locally.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Authentic flamenco show in Seville from €33 per person.

139

MADRID, SALAMANCA & TOLEDO Departure Airport

Date

Dublin

05/05/19 07/09/19

Airline Ryanair

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Madrid Hotel

13:05 06:25

Madrid

23:55 19:00

2hrs.35 2hrs.35

Catalonia Catalonia

DUBROVNIK, THE DALMATIAN COAST & MONTENEGRO Price €959 €979

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

1st Hotel

2nd Hotel

Price

Belfast Int

12/05/19 12/05/19 26/05/19 26/05/19 09/06/19 09/06/19 16/06/19 16/06/19 01/09/19 01/09/19 08/09/19 08/09/19 29/09/19 29/09/19 24/04/19 06/10/19

Jet2

06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 06:50 07:40 09:05

Dubrovnik

14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 14:35 15:00 16:45

3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20 3hrs.20

Plaza Omis Plaza Duce Plaza Omis Plaza Duce Plaza Omis Plaza Duce Plaza Omis Plaza Duce Plaza Omis Plaza Duce Plaza Omis Plaza Duce Plaza Omis Plaza Duce Plaza Omis Plaza Omis

Lero Lacroma Lero Lacroma Lero Lacroma Lero Lacroma Lero Lacroma Lero Lacroma Lero Lacroma Lacroma Lero

€1,309 €1,309 €1,369 €1,339 €1,379 €1,399 €1,409 €1,429 €1,489 €1,519 €1,469 €1,509 €1,339 €1,289 €1,199 €1,229

Transfer Times Madrid Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 2nd Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

3 hrs 45 mins

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms available from €309 per person. The price includes return flights, six nights' accommodation with breakfast and three dinners plus one dinner at a restaurant, (except those dates staying at the Catalonia Gran Via, where only one dinner is included), all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

PLEASE NOTE There are only a limited number of twin rooms at the Novotel - most have one king-sized bed and one convertible single bed. Room type available will be confirmed upon booking.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

Dublin

Aer Lingus Ryanair

Transfer Times Dubrovnik Airport Airport to Hotel Plaza / Hotel Plaza Duce (in Omis) 4 hrs 30 mins Airport to Hotel Olympia (in Vodice) 1 hr 30 mins 2nd Hotel to Airport 30 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on the number of hotel stops and traffic.

PRICE INCLUDES PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY

The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement from €339 per person. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner in three and four-star accommodation as mentioned, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Market tour and cooking class in Madrid from €73 per person.

PLEASE NOTE UK and ROI passport holders do not require visas for this holiday. However, please be aware that holders of other passports may require visas for entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia. We advise you check with the relevant embassy prior to booking. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

LISBON, PORTO & THE DOURO VALLEY Departure Airport Dublin

Date

Airline

14/05/19 Air 21/06/19 Portugal 10/09/19 20/10/19

Outbound Dep Arrival Time Airport 10:35 10:35 10:35 10:35

Lisbon

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

1st Hotel

Price

16:45 16:45 16:45 16:45

2hrs.50 2hrs.50 2hrs.50 2hrs.50

Sheraton Sheraton Sheraton Bridges

€1,249 €1,249 €1,279 €1,119

Transfer Times Lisbon Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 2nd Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

45 mins 1 hr

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement of €429 per person. The price includes return flights, three nights' accommodation in Lisbon with breakfast and three nights accommodation in Porto with breakfast and dinner, and one-night accommodation in Cascais with breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrances to Coimbra University and Sintra Royal Palace and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

140

LAKES & MOUNTAINS OF AUSTRIA Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Price

Dublin

17/06/19 24/06/19 09/09/19

Lufthansa

06:10 10:35 10:35

Munich

22:40 17:05 17:05

2hrs.15 2hrs.15 2hrs.15

€1,199 €1,269 €1,259

TIMELESS PROVENCE Airport

Date

Dublin 14/05/19 16/09/19

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Novotel 4*

Ryanair

17:25 17:25

Nice

23:10 23:10

2hrs.20 2hrs.20

€1,179 €1,239

Aquabella 4* Roi Rene 4* Superior €1,709 €1,649

Transfer Times Transfer Times

Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport Between Airport/Station & Hotel 2 hrs 30 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on the number of hotel stops and traffic.

Munich Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 2nd Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

2 hrs 3 hrs 30 mins

Room supplements Supplements

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are available at a supplement from €159 per person. The price includes return flights, three nights at Hotel Stadtkrug in Salzburg and four nights at Das AlpenHaus in Kaprun, both four-star with dinner bed and breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

PLEASE NOTE Austrian beds are generally one base with two mattresses and indvidual bed linen. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

Double Room for Sole Occupancy

Novotel 4* €239 Aquabella 4* €549 Roi Rene 4* Superior €609 These room supplements are priced per person, subject to availability. * Supplement varies depending on departure date

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast, two dinners in hotels, two dinners in local restaurants, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

NOT INCLUDED Entrance to Papal Palace and Bridge in Avignon €13.50, Petit Palais museum €6, approximate costs, payable locally.

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Classical concert in Salzburg from €44 per person.

PLEASE NOTE There are only a limited number of twin rooms at the Novotel - most have one king-sized bed and one convertible single bed. Room type available will be confirmed upon booking.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

PRAGUE,VIENNA, BOHEMIA & THE DANUBE VALLEY

SWITZERLAND'S BERNESE OBERLAND

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Price

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Price

Dublin

08/07/19

Aer Lingus

18:05

Prague

17:40

2hrs.25

€1,069

Dublin

05/07/19 13/09/19

Aer Lingus

13:20 13:20

Geneva

18:35 18:35

3hrs.10 3hrs.10

€1,939 €1,999

Transfer Times

Transfer Times Prague Airport

Airport to 1st Hotel 2nd Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

2 hrs 30 mins 30 mins

Geneva Airport Between Airport & Hotel Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

2 hrs 30 mins

PRICE INCLUDES

PRICE INCLUDES

The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement of €279 per person. The price includes return flights, seven nights' four-star accommodation with breakfast and three dinners, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrances to Durnstein Basilica, Budvar Brewery, Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement of €439 per person. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, all local taxes and transfers, a second class sixday Bernese Oberland Pass, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY

PLEASE NOTE Opening/closing dates of some mountain railways may be subject to weather conditions. Some places or routes suggested for your free days may be subject to entrance fees or a supplement.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

Concert in Vienna from €52 per person.

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY James Bond excursion from €35 per person.

141

BERLIN, DRESDEN, MEISSEN & COLDITZ

KRAKOW

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

1st City*

Price

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Price

Dublin

14/06/19 20/09/19

Ryanair

07:20 07:20

Schonefeld

19:45 19:45

2hrs.20 2hrs.20

Dresden Berlin

€739 €729

Dublin

02/06/19

Ryanair

07:20

Krakow

23:10

2hrs.40

€599

Transfer Times

Transfer Times

Krakow Airport Between Airport & Hotel Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Schönefeld Airport Between airport & Berlin hotel Between airport Dresden hotel Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

30 mins 2 hrs 30 mins

25 mins

PRICE INCLUDES

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are available at a supplement of €149 per person. The price includes return flights, two nights at both the Hotel Maritim or the Pro Arte Hotel in Berlin and the Hotel Steigenberger De Saxe or the Hotel Maritim in Dresden with breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrances to Colditz castle and museum and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

PLEASE NOTE Some dates will operate in reverse to the itinerary as printed in the brochure. These dates will stay first in Dresden for two nights followed by two nights in Berlin. You will experience the same tours and visits.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement from €129 per person. The price includes return flights, three nights' accommodation with breakfast at the four-star Novotel Krakow Centrum, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to Auschwitz (optional) and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

NOT INCLUDED Optional trip to Salt Mines 125 Polish Złoty approximate cost, payable locally.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Traditional Polish food tour from €60 per person.

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Berlin TV Tower, VIP dinner from €85 per person.

MALTA UNCOVERED ICELAND

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Dublin

07/09/19

Ryanair

15:10

Malta

Return Arrival Flight Duration 23:25

3hrs.20

Price €1,229

Transfer Times Malta Airport

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Hotel

Price

Dublin

09/06/19

Icelandair

14:40

Keflavik

13:50

1hrs.35

Fosshotel

€1,399

Transfer Times

Between Airport & Golden Tulip Hotel in St Julians Between Airport & Antonine Hotel in Mellieha Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

20 mins 40 mins

PRICE INCLUDES Keflavik Airport

The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement from €409 per person. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.

Between Airport & Hotel 45 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on the number of hotel stops and traffic.

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability from €439 per person. The price includes return flights, four nights' accommodation with breakfast, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to the Blue Lagoon and whale watching and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

NOT INCLUDED Should you wish to visit the Hypogeum on a free day, you must book well in advance on the internet site http://www.heritagemalta.org. The cost is approximately €35 per person, €20 for Senior Citizens. Sundays will always be a free day unless your tour departs on a Saturday or Sunday, in which case Friday will be the free day.

PLEASE NOTE Whilst we do our best to ensure an exceptional experience, the views from the sea view rooms may at times be partially obstructed. If in doubt please call to enquire.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

NORWAY Departure Airport Dublin

Date

DISCOVER NORTHERN CYPRUS Airline

13/06/19 Scandinavian 15/07/19 13/09/19

Outbound Dep Time

Arrival Airport

Return Arrival

Flight Duration

Price

Departure Airport

Date

Airline

12:35 12:35 12:35

Oslo

11:45 11:45 11:45

2hrs.10 2hrs.10 2hrs.10

€1,619 €1,619 €1,549

Belfast Int

11/09/19

Jet2

Outbound Dep Arrival Airport Return Arrival Flight Duration Time 10:35

Paphos

22:30

4hrs.30

Price €1,189

Transfer Times Transfer Times

Paphos Airport Oslo Airport

Airport to 1st Hotel 40 mins 3rd hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Bergen Airport 30 mins

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement of €339 per person. The price includes flights to Oslo, returning from Bergen, seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and two dinners, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to Viking Ship museum and one-day Oslo Pass and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

142

Between Airport & Hotel 2 hrs 15 mins* Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic. * Plus time for border crossing.

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability from €199 per person. The price includes return flights, seven nights' accommodation at Arkin Colony Hotel with breakfast and four dinners, all local taxes and transfers, all tours as mentioned, entrance to Kyrenia Castle and Museum, Güzelyurt Archaeological Museum, Ancient Soli, remains of the Palace of Vouni, St Hilarion Castle, Bellapais Abbey, Monastery of St Barnabus & icon museum, Ancient Salamis, Othello’s tower and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

JORDAN AND PETRA Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Flight Out of Heathrow

Dublin

10/09/19 Aer Lingus/Royal 09:50 Heathrow Jordanian Airlines 01/10/19 09:50 12/11/19 09:50 All timings quoted are local. Jordan is GMT + 3 hrs Flight Information: Flying time shown is outbound, inbound flight is approximately 25 minutes longer.

Upgrades to Business class : Subject to availability, please call for details.

16:05 16:05 16:05

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Actual Flying Time

Price

Single Supplement

Amman

14:45 14:45 14:45

19:05 19:05 19:05

6hrs.55 6hrs.55 6hrs.55

€1,889 €1,889 €1,889

€339 €339 €339

All Royal Jordanian B787 flights include personal TV's, 32" seat pitch.

Transfer Times Amman Queen Alia International Airport to 1st Hotel Final Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

50 mins 1hr 20 mins

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at the above relevant supplement per person. Six or nine nights’ accommodation in fourstar hotels with daily breakfast and dinner (plus camp-style accommodation in Wadi Rum); scheduled flights to and from Amman, all guided tours and entrances to Wadi Rum, Little Petra and Petra, Shobak & Ajloun castles, Mount Nebo, Madaba and Jerash; all transfers; hotel porterage of one item of luggage and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €100 per person

VISAS & HEALTH UK and Irish citizens do require a visa for entry into Jordan. However when travelling with a group, this is issued on arrival at the airport in Amman and is included in the cost of the tour. In addition, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your return date.

Z AM B I A

SOUTH AFRICA Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Z I MB AB W E

Via

Flight Departs Heathrow

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Actual Flying Time

Price

Single Supplement

Dublin

25/02/19 Aer Lingus/ 14:00 Heathrow 19:00 Johannes06:25 11:20 9hrs.35 €3,299 €409 South burg OR 17/04/19 14:00 19:00 06:25 11:20 9hrs.35 €2,969 €409 African Tambo 08/05/19 14:00 19:00 06:25 11:20 9hrs.35 €2,849 €399 05/06/19 14:00 19:00 06:25 11:20 9hrs.35 €2,629 €409 18/09/19 14:00 19:00 06:25 11:20 9hrs.35 €3,079 €409 14/10/19 14:00 19:00 06:25 11:20 9hrs.35 €3,409 €419 06/11/19 14:00 19:00 06:25 11:20 9hrs.35 €2,849 €399 Flight information: South African Airways flights are on an Airbus 340 with 80% of economy class seats having 33” to 34” seat pitch, seat-back TV’s with video on demand. Aircraft types and facilities may be changed without prior notice.

South African Business Class Upgrade subject to availability, prices to be confirmed on application Actual Flying time is based on a departure from the UK and does not include the connecting flights from Dublin Aircraft types and facilities may be changed without prior notice

Transfer Times Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport

Cape Town Airport

Airport to 1st Hotel 1 hr* Final Hotel to Airport 45 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic. * On arrival, we stop at the Apartheid Museum where we spend around 2 hours.

Key: Route Arrive

Pretoria

Depart

Kruger National Park

Internal Flight

Johannesburg

Swaziland

Zulu Battlefields

S O UT H A F R I C A Stellenbosch Cape Town

Hermanus

Mossel Bay George

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement above. Scheduled flights to Johannesburg and from Cape Town, all transfers, 13 nights' accommodation on bed and breakfast basis, three dinners, visit to the Johannesburg Apartheid museum, visit to Blyde River canyon, full day Kruger safari, tour of Zulu battlefields including lunch, tour of the Cango Caves and Ostrich Farm including lunch, whale-watching in Hermanus depending on season (18 Apr - 21 Nov), Winelands tour including wine tasting, visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, tour of Cape Point, hotel porterage of one item of luggage per person and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

VISAS & HEALTH Irish passport holders do not currently require a visa. However, please ensure that your passport is valid for at least thirty days after the intended return date and there are at least two completely empty pages.

Whilst care has been taken to ensure that the information provided relating to visa requirements is true and correct at time of publication, changes in requirements after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of this information. Therefore, whilst we strive to provide the most up-to-date information, we strongly suggest that you re-confirm requirements with the relevant embassy prior to application.

Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for South Africa at least a month before departure. The Kruger National Park is considered a malarial zone, although the risk is reduced during the South African drier winter months of May to August. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate medication well before departure and ensure you use a strong mosquito repellent.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €200 per person.

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Enjoy an overnight tented safari from €279 per person.

143

DEEP SOUTH USA PLUS TEXAS Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Flight Out of Heathrow

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Actual Flying Time

Price

Single Supplement

Dublin

25/02/19 Aer Lingus/Virgin 06:30 Heathrow 11:00 Atlanta 08:45 13:30 11hrs.35 €3,299 €809 23/04/19 06:30 11:00 08:45 13:30 11hrs.35 €3,019 €799 24/05/19 06:30 11:00 08:45 13:30 11hrs.35 €3,019 €799 24/09/19 06:30 11:00 08:45 13:30 11hrs.35 €3,019 €799 15/10/19 06:30 11:00 08:45 13:30 11hrs.35 €2,979 €799 12/11/19 06:30 11:00 08:45 13:30 11hrs.35 €2,799 €799 All timings quoted are local. Atlanta is GMT -4 or -5 hrs, depending on season. Single supplement subject to availability.

Flight information: Flying time showin is outbound, inbound is about 30 minutes shorter. All Virgin Atlantic flights (on A340-600) include personal TV's with of award-winning entertainment, 32" seat pitch, amenity kit, complimentary drinks throughout the flight and a choice of meals including vegetarian option.

Transfer Times Atlanta Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 20 mins Final Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Dallas Airport

Nashville TE NNE SSE E

Key:

30 mins

Route Arrive Train

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room and includes: scheduled return flights to Atlanta, all transfers and journey on Amtrak ‘City of New Orleans’ rail service from Memphis to New Orleans, domestic flight from Dallas/Ft.Worth to Atlanta, 12 nights’ accommodation with daily breakfast, all tours as mentioned including Chattanooga incline railway, tour of Jack Daniels distillery, entrance to Country Music Hall of Fame, Studio B tour, Sun Studio tour, ‘Platinum’ tour of Graceland, New Orleans walking tour with local guide, NASA Johnson Space Centre, entrance to the Alamo, 6th Floor museum in Dallas, tour of and entrance to Atlanta Civil Rights Museum, hotel porterage of one item of luggage per person and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €200 per person

Chattanooga

Memphis

Depart

ARK ANSAS Dallas

Atlanta

MISSISSIPPI AL ABAMA GEORGIA

TEXAS Houston San Antonio

LOUISIANA New Orleans

VISA & HEALTH Irish passport holders do not require a visa under the USA Visa Waiver Programme (The VWP allows most British Citizen passport holders to visit the US for up to 90 days). Irish passport holders qualifying for the Visa Waiver programme must apply online for authorisation to enter the USA, for which there is an administration fee of US$14 per person. This may only be submitted online by visiting the official website https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and registering at least 72 hours prior to travel. Without authorisation prior to travel, admission may be denied at a US port of entry. Holders of non-Irish passports will need to contact the American Embassy in Dublin for details at least three months prior to departure. Details can be found on: https://uk.usembassy.gov/visas/tourism-visitor/how-to-apply.

As of 01 April 2016, all travellers wishing to enter the US under the VWP now need to hold a passport with an integrated chip (an ePassport). Your passport is an ePassport if it carries this internationally recognised symbol on the front cover. If you do not have an e-passport then you have two options: Apply for a new passport which contains the embedded electronic chip or Obtain a US Tourism & Visitor visa via the following link:https://uk.usembassy.gov/visas/tourism-visitor/how-to-apply

From 21 January 2016 most people who have travelled to Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria since March 2011, or are dual nationals of these countries, will no longer qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Programme and existing ESTAs could be revoked. You will instead need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.If you are in any doubt about whether you qualify for the VWP, or if you’re concerned that an existing ESTA may have been cancelled, you should contact the US Embassy or Consulate.

Whilst care has been taken to ensure that the information provided relating to visa requirements is true and correct at time of publication, changes in requirements after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of this information. Therefore, whilst we strive to provide the most up-to-date information, we strongly suggest that you re-confirm requirements with the relevant embassy prior to application.

There are no current health requirements for the USA or Canada. However, whilst the travelling schedule shall pose no problems for people of any age in normal physical health, we would point out that we often enjoy walking tours (sometimes over unmade paths) of the various places of interest. For these reasons this holiday may not be suitable for clients of greatly impaired mobility. Please bear this in mind when considering this holiday.

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY General Jackson Showboat, Nashville Showboats are a colourful part of America's history, so what better way is there to experience Nashville than on the General Jackson Showboat? Admire stunning views of the city while 'rollin' down the river', and enjoy a meal and entertainment in the Victorian Theatre on board from only €89pp.

The Grand Ole Opry live music show, Nashville Nashville's top live music attraction and a must for country music lovers, the legendary Grand Ole Opry is dedicated to honouring the genre. Catch a weekly live show featuring country music's greatest talents from only €52pp.

Oak Alley Plantation & Louisiana Swamp Spend the day visiting the historic plantation of New Orleans' south, renowned for its photogenic walkway of magnificent oak trees. Tour the stunning 'Big House' with a guide and enjoy a long boat tour of the Louisiana bayou from only €67pp.

Stockyards Rodeo VIP seats, Fort Worth Attend the world’s only year-round rodeo, held in the historic Cowtown Coliseum, and watch some of the best rodeo athletes perform thrilling feats of bull-riding. Enjoy tiered VIP seats, located above the Roping Boxes, and a full-service bar from only €29pp.

144

INDIA & SHIMLA Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Flight Departs Heathrow

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Actual Flying Time

Price

Single Supplement

Departures below include Shimla Extension 11/03/19 Aer Lingus/Virgin 16:20 Heathrow 21:50 Delhi 17:55 20:45 8hrs.30 €2,689 €719 25/03/19 16:20 21:50 17:55 20:45 8hrs.30 €2,629 €719 26/09/19 16:20 21:50 17:55 20:45 8hrs.30 €2,669 €719 07/10/19 16:20 21:50 17:55 20:45 8hrs.30 €2,739 €769 All timings quoted are local. India is GMT +5.30 hrs. Single room supplements are per person and subject to availability.

Flight information: Flying time shown is outbound, inbound flight approximately 45 minutes longer. All Virgin Atlantic flights include personal TV’s with hours of award-wining entertainment, 32” seat pitch, amenity kit, complimentary drinks throughout the flight, a choice of meals including a vegetarian option, 23kg baggage allowance per person. Please note seats in exit rows are allocated at check-in and bulkhead seats are normally reserved for families with infants. Aircraft types and facilities may be changed without prior notice.

Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy upgrade on request, subject to availability.

Actual Flying time is based on a departure from the UK and does not include the connecting flights from Dublin Aircraft types and facilities may be changed without prior notice Dublin

Transfer Times Delhi Airport Airport to 1st Hotel Final Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.* Plus sightseeing en route to hotel of approx 2 hrs

1 hr* 1 hr

JAM M U A ND K A S H M IR

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Nine nights' accommodation (13 nights if taking Shimla extension) in three, four or five-star hotels with daily breakfast, seven meals (plus one extra meal when staying in Shimla), scheduled flights to/from Delhi, all transfers, guided tours of New and Old Delhi, Agra and the Taj Mahal, guided tour of Fatehpur Sikri, two game drives in Ranthambore, Jaipur city tour, visit to Amber Fort, walking tour of Havelis at Alsisar, all local transport by train or coach as described, hotel porterage of one item of luggage per person and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Please note no twin rooms are available at the Oberoi Cecil Hotel, all guest rooms contain one queen-size bed only.

Key: Route

H IMACH AL P R A DES H

Arrive Depart Train

Shimla

Extension Stay: Train

NOT INCLUDED India visa, please see below.

Kalka

VISAS & HEALTH All Irish passport holders will require a visa for India. Please ensure that you have at least two empty pages in your passport and that your passport is valid for a minimum of 190 days from the time of submitting your visa application. At the time of departure you will be able to travel as long as both the passport and the visa are valid.

H A RYA NA

India visas: Postal or Online applications: Single entry tourist visas cost €52 per person and can be applied for in person or by post. Personal applications: to apply for an Indian visa please visit http://www.indianembassy.ie where you can download a postal application form or obtain the address and opening times for a personal application. Postal applications: print off the completed application form and submit by post. You must submit your passport along with a self addressed stamped envelope and one photo to: Consular Wing, Embassy of India, 6 Leeson Park, Dublin 6.

Please note all visa costs are non-refundable, this information is correct at the time of publishing.

Online applications: Irish Passport holders are now eligible to apply for an e-visa online, you must ensure your passport is machine readable and has a biometric chip (without this you may be denied entry into India). The cost of a single entry tourist e-visa is US$60.00 and will be converted R A JA S T H A N into euros by your bank. The website to apply for the e-visa is: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in Here you will find all the information to assist you with the completion of your application. While we endeavour to provide accurate information, it may change with minimum notice.

Please Jodhpur contact the relevant embassy for visa information.

Delhi Alsisar

U T TAR P R AD E S H Agra/Taj Mahal

Jaipur

Fatehpur Sikri

Ranthambore

Whilst the travelling schedule shall pose no problems for people of any age in normal physical health, we would point out that in visiting a number of historical sites, paths may be uneven and uphill and we often enjoy walking tours of the main sights. Therefore this holiday may not Udaipur be suitable for clients of greatly impaired mobility. In the tropics temperatures and humidity levels will also be quite high for most of the year.

Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for India at least a month before departure.

Khajuraho

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €200 per person

Ahmadabad

Bhopal MAD HYA P R AD E S H

G UJA R AT

IND I A MA H A R A S H T R A

Mumbai

Hyderabad ANDHRA P R AD E S H G OA

K A RNATA K A

Chennai Bangalore Pondicherry

145

TAM IL NAD U Tanjore

SRI LANKA & MALDIVES CRUISE Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Dublin

01/11/19 15/11/19

Aer Lingus/Sri Lankan

15:50 15:50

Heathrow

Dublin

Flight Out of Heathrow

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Departures below include the Maldives 20:40 Colombo 20:40 Departures below exclude the Maldives 20:40 Colombo 20:40 20:40 20:40 20:40 20:40

19:10 19:10

Arrival in Dublin

Flight Duration

Price

Single Supplement

22:30 22:30

12hrs.35 12hrs.35

€3,919 €3,959

€919 €919

20/05/2019 Aer Lingus/Sri Lankan 15:50 Heathrow 19:10 22:30 12hrs.35 €2,229 €489 03/06/2019 15:50 19:10 22:30 12hrs.35 €2,129 €489 22/09/2019 15:50 19:10 22:30 12hrs.35 €2,419 €499 07/10/2019 15:50 19:10 22:30 12hrs.35 €2,459 €499 28/10/2019 15:50 19:10 22:30 12hrs.35 €2,459 €499 11/11/2019 15:50 19:10 22:30 12hrs.35 €2,639 €549 Additional Flight Information: Day 11: Depart Colombo Airport at 13:25, arrive Male International Airport at 14:25 with Sri Lankan Airlines - flight duration 1 hour 25 minutes.

Day 18: Domestic flight from Maamiligil Airport to Male International Airport Domestic Terminal flight - duration 30 minutes. Domestic airline: FlyMe (twin-engine turbo propelled aircraft ATR 52-50 (46 seats) or ATR 72-50 (68 seats) Per person: Luggage allowance 1 x 25 kg (maximum weight 32 kg per bag), Hand luggage 1 x 5 kg, Excess baggage charge: $USD 2 per kg (paid locally at domestic check in), Clients are weighed at domestic check-in (for aircraft weight purposes). Depart Male International Airport at 09:25 hours / arrive Colombo Airport at 11:20 - flight duration 1 hour 25 minutes. Onward international flight to London Heathrow from Colombo Airport as above.

All timings quoted are local. Sri Lanka is GMT +5.30 hrs or +4.30hrs during daylight saving hours. Maldives is GMT +5 hrs or + 4 hrs during daylight saving hours. Single supplement subject to availability Flight information: Flight times shown are outbound. Return flight is approx 1hr.25 longer. Sri Lankan Airlines Business Class Upgrades: please call for further info. For Business Class upgrades please call for further information, subject to availability.

Transfer Times Colombo Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 40 mins Final Hotel to Airport 2 hrs 30 mins Maldives Arrival: dhoni boat transfer from Male Airport to Yasawa Princess 20 minutes, Departure: dhoni boat transfer from Yasawa Princess to Maamiligil Airport 15 minutes, Domestic Terminal 5 minute walk to international terminal.

Please note: Transfer times in Sri Lanka are approximate and depend on traffic.

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room on the Sri Lanka tour and a lower main deck cabin on the Maldives cruise. Scheduled flights to/from Colombo, from Colombo to Male return and domestic flight in the Maldives from Maamigili to Male (twin engine turbo propelled aircraft ATR52-50 or ATR72-50). 9 nights with breakfast and dinner at four-star hotels in Sri Lanka and 7 nights on full-board with unlimited bottled water, tea and coffee on the MV Yasawa Princess. All transfers, local taxes, port charges and tours as mentioned and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

PLEASE NOTE: the cruise itinerary is dependent on weather and sea conditions and subject to change at short notice, at the Captain’s discretion. Night snorkelling, whale shark trip and extra night fishing may be purchased locally at US$15pp per activity. Snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) can be hired, paid locally on board $USD 6 per day or $USD 30 per 7 days paid locally. No islands/sandbanks are visited on arrival & departure days.

Please note: a drinks package at €157 per person for the 7 nights on the Maldives cruise is available to purchase at time of booking. This includes all soft drinks, house wines by the glass, local beer, cocktail of the day and local-branded spirits from midday daily. Also included is snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) for 7 days. All international-brand drinks, non-house wines and use of minibar are charged extra.

Under the health section please add that it is recommended that all clients on the Maldives cruise are able to swim and climb stairs on board as there are no lifts on the ship.

NOT INCLUDED Sri Lanka Visa, please see below & crew gratuities.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €200 per person

VISAS & HEALTH All British and Irish passport holders will require a visa prior to travel to Sri Lanka. A Tourist Visa will cost US$35 per person and the Visa will need to be applied for online using an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) System. This can be obtained by logging on to www.eta.gov.lk Here you will need to complete the online application form and submit it accordingly. The majority of the application form requires personal information. You will also be asked to provide the address of your accommodation in Sri Lanka, which will be the first hotel of your tour: Jetwing Lagoon Hotel, Panumugama Road, Negombo, 10250, Sri Lanka. Tel: 0094 312 277140 Key: Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after the intended return date and there are at least two completely Routeempty pages. Please note that without an approved ETA you will denied entry to the country. Visa costs are subject to change without notice and are non-refundable.

Arrive Depart Internal Flight

SRI L A N K A

MV Yasawa Princess, Fila Building (07-01), Koli Umar Manik Goalhi, Male, 20026, Maldives. Tel: 00 960 330 2556 Habarana

Whilst care has been taken to ensure that the information provided relating to visa requirements is true and correct at time of publication, changes in requirements after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of this information. Therefore, whilst we strive Sigiriya to provide the most up-to-date information, we strongly suggest that you re-confirm requirements with the relevant embassy prior to application.

Dambulla Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for Sri Lanka at least a month before departure. Whilst the travelling schedule shall pose no problems for people of any age in normal physical health, we would point out that we enjoy several walking tours around a number of historical sites where paths are uneven and uphill. Therefore this holiday may not be suitable for clients of greatly Kandy Negombo impaired mobility.

COLOMBO

Nuwara Eliya

A visa is issued upon arrival to Maldives at no extra charge. It is recommended that all clients on the Maldives cruise are able to swim and climb stairs on board as there are no lifts on the ship.

Yala National Park

NORTH MALE ATOL

Galle

Key:

Route

bo

MALDIVE S

Depart

Habarana

MALE

ro To/F

SOUTH MALE ATOLL

Sigiriya

Dambulla

Kandy

Negombo

Oshagali Finolhu

Nuwara Eliya

COLOMBO

Alimatha

Ariadhoo SOUTH ARI

Yala National Park

SRI LANKA

Dambulla

Sigiriya

COLOMBO

Nuwara Eliya

Yala National Park

Anbaraa

VAAVU ATOLL

NORTH MALE ATOL bo

NORTH ARI ATOL

MAL D I VES Kandy

Negombo

MAAMAGILI

Key: Route Arrive Depart Internal Flight

Habarana

146

Vilingili

Key: Route Kalhuhuraa Arrive Depart Internal FlightRannalhi

S R I L AN K A

Galle

olom mC

NORTH ARI ATOL

Arrive

Vilingili

MALE

rom To/F

m Colo

VIETNAM & CAMBODIA Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Dublin

23/04/19 07/05/19 04/06/19 16/07/19 24/09/19 29/10/19 22/11/19

Aer Lingus/Vietnam

06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30

Heathrow

Flight Out of Heathrow

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Actual Flying Time

Price

Single Supplement

11:00 Noi Bai 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €2,719 €559 International 11:00 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €2,719 €559 11:00 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €2,639 €559 11:00 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €3,109 €559 11:00 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €2,909 €609 11:00 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €3,069 €609 11:00 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €3,069 €609 Departures below include Laos Extension Dublin 04/10/19 Aer Lingus/Vietnam 06:30 Heathrow 11:00 Noi Bai 07:15 13:40 11hrs.30 €3,219 €779 International All timings quoted are local. Vietnam is GMT +6 hrs. Single room supplements are per person, subject to availability.

Flight information Vietnam Airlines B777 flights to/from London Heathrow to Hanoi and from Saigon have generous 32” seat pitch, seat-back TV’s and 30kg baggage allowance. Domestic flights within Vietnam and to Cambodia are on B737 aircraft with 32” seat pitch and no seat-back TV. Vietnam Airlines Economy Deluxe Class: Enjoy a 38” seat pitch and 35 degree recline and 40kg baggage allowance. Price to be confirmed once we receive your booking form.

Vietnam Airlines Business Class: Enjoy a dedicated check-in desk, 60” seat pitch, 65 degree recline and excellent 3-course meals. Price to be confirmed once we receive your booking form. Aircraft types may be changed without notice.

All upgrade classes subject to availability Actual Flying time is based on a departure from the UK and does not include the connecting flights from Dublin Aircraft types and facilities may be changed without prior notice

Transfer Times Hanoi Airport

Siem Reap

Airport to 1st Hotel 1 hr* Final Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic. * Plus time for breakfast and a tour lasting around 2 hrs.

20 mins

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room, 13 nights on bed and breakfast in four and five-star hotels, five lunches, all flights as mentioned, all transfers, guided tours of Hanoi, Halong Bay cruise, Hue, Saigon, Cu Chi tunnels, Mekong Delta and Phnom Penh, plus one-day entrance and guided tour of Angkor, hotel porterage of one item of luggage per person and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Hanoi

Halong Bay

L AOS

Gulf of Tonkin

NOT INCLUDED Cambodia visa, please see below.

VISAS & HEALTH All Irish passport holders require visas for both Vietnam and Cambodia. Please also ensure you have at least two completely empty pages in your passport and that it is valid for at least six months after your return date.

VIE TNAM

Vietnam visas: To apply for a Vietnam visa please visit http://vietnamembassy.ie/ where the correct forms can be downloaded and emailed, along with a scanned copy of your passport photo page. You will also need to download, scan and attach the passport photo and postal address form to the relevant department to begin your visa application. Please contact the Embassy by email at consular@vietnamembassy.org.uk for bank account details and relevant fee information, don’t forget to mention that you are applicant from Republic of Ireland.

IMPORTANT NOTICE Upon receipt of your visa, you are required to check and make sure all the information is correct (especially passport number and visa date). Any error must be notified to our staff immediately and BEFORE your trip to Vietnam.

Your visa will be valid from the DATE OF ENTRY (provided in the application form) and extend for 30 days or 90 days depending on the type of visa. You can visit Vietnam on and after the DATE OF ENTRY and must leave before the visa expires.

This information is correct at the time of publishing. While we endeavour to provide accurate information, it may change with minimum notice. Please contact the relevant embassy for visa information.

Danang

Siem Reap/Angkor

C AMBODIA Phnom Penh

Cambodia visas: Available on arrival in Phnom Penh upon completion of a simple application form and payment of US$30 per person.

You will also need two passport-sized photos and if you arrive without photos, there is an extra charge of around US$2 per person. Visas may also be arranged and paid for online prior to departure: please see http://www.cambodianembassy.org.uk for details.

Please note all visa costs are non-refundable, this information is correct at the time of publishing. While we endeavour to provide accurate information, it may change with minimum notice. Please contact the relevant embassy for visa information.

Whilst the travelling schedule shall pose no problems for people of any age in normal physical health, we would point out that in visiting a number of historical sites, paths may be uneven and we often enjoy walking tours of the main sights. Therefore this holiday may not be suitable for clients of greatly impaired mobility. In the tropics temperatures and humidity levels will also be quite high for most of the year. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for Vietnam & Cambodia at least a month before departure.

Hue

T H AI L AND

Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh City

Key: Route Arrive Depart Internal Flight

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €200 per person

147

A JOURNEY ON THE MEKONG RV MEKONG PRESTIGE II Departure Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Dublin

06/10/19

Aer Lingus/Thai

06:30

Heathrow

14/10/19

Aer Lingus/Vietnam

06:30

Flight Out of Arrival Airport Heathrow

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Flight Duration

Main Deck Stateroom

Main Deck Single Supplement

Upper Deck Stateroom

Junior Suite

11:50

Siem Reap

06:20

12:10

16hrs.40

€3,579

€5,348

€3,803

€4,139

11:00

Saigon

07:15

12:10

15hrs.15

€3,919

€5,828

€4,143

€4,479

Siem Reap 03/11/19 Aer Lingus/Thai 06:30 11:50 06:20 12:10 16hrs.40 €3,989 Note: All Mekong Prestige II tours are upstream itineraries: starting with two nights in Saigon, seven nights’ cruising and finally three nights in Siem Reap.

All timings quoted are local. Vietnam is GMT +6 hrs. Single room/cabin supplements are per person, subject to availability.

€5,928

€4,213

€4,549

Flight information: Vietnam Airlines B787 flights to/from London Heathrow to/from Saigon have generous 32” seat pitch, seat-back TVs and 30kg baggage allowance.

Vietnam Airlines Economy Deluxe Class: Enjoy a 38” seat pitch and 35 degree recline and 40kg baggage allowance. Please call for further information.

Vietnam Airlines Business Class: Enjoy a dedicated check-in desk, 60” seat pitch, flat bed and excellent 3-course meals. Please call for further information. Aircraft types may be changed without notice. All upgrade classes subject to availability.

Transfer Times Upstream Itinerary

Downstream Itinerary

1 hr 30 mins

30 mins 1 hr

Airport to 1st Hotel Final Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

PRICE INCLUDES The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room/cabin, five nights’ bed and breakfast in four-star hotels and seven nights full board, including non-alcoholic soft drinks, local beer and local wine at mealtimes on the Mekong Prestige II, all flights as mentioned, all transfers, porterage, guided tours of Saigon and Cu Chi tunnels, one-day entrance and guided tour of Angkor, all shore excursions as described whilst on the cruise, gratuities for the ship’s crew and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

NOT INCLUDED Vietnam & Cambodia visas.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €500 per person.

VISAS & HEALTH Vietnam visas: British and Irish passport holders no longer require a visa to enter Vietnam for arrivals up to 1 July 2021, for a stay no longer than 15 days.

Cambodia visa: If you are cruising DOWNSTREAM, the Cambodian visa is available on arrival at the airport in Siem Reap. A simple application form needs to be completed and payment of $35USD per person is required. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-visa prior to departure. The cost of an e-visa is $36USD. Please visit https://www.evisa.gov.kh/ for details. Here you will find all the information to assist you with the completion of your application.

If you are cruising UPSTREAM, you can apply for your visa online. The visa is also available to you at the Vietnam/Cambodian border on board the ship. Here, there is a simple application form to complete, and a payment of $40USD per person is required.

Whilst the travelling schedule shall pose no problems for people of any age in normal physical health, we would point out that in visiting a number of historical sites, paths may be uneven and we often enjoy walking tours of the main sights, therefore this holiday may not be suitable for clients of greatly impaired mobility. In the tropics temperatures and humidity levels are quite high for most of the year. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for Vietnam & Cambodia at least a month before departure.

IMPORTANT NOTE ON MEKONG RIVER CRUISING The itinerary, timings and the places visited en-route may vary depending on whether you travel upstream or downstream and on the water levels in the upper reaches of the Mekong and the Tonle Sap Lake. At the peak of high water, normally at some point between end of August to mid-December, the level of the lake may rise by up to ten metres, so ships will be able to sail all the way across the Tonle Sap Lake to or from Siem Reap. During the low water period, generally between late December to mid-August, sections of the river within Cambodia and the Tonle Sap Lake may be un-navigable and the ships will moor on the Mekong itself and travel to or from Siem Reap will be by coach or speed boat. The itineraries are based on the high water period. We may not always be able to advise you in advance of any itinerary changes as decisions to amend any part of the cruise could be made by the ship’s captain during the cruise itself. However, we will always endeavour to ensure that equally interesting visits and stops are substituted – it’s all part of the adventure of river cruising in South East Asia.

SPA SPA

FITNESS FITNESS

PLUNGEPOOL POOL PLUNGE SPA SPA

BAR BAR

RESTAURANT RESTAURANT

148

202 202

204 204

206 206

208 208

210 210

212 212

214 214

201 201

203 203

205 205

207 207

209 209

211 211

213 213

102

104

106

108 108

110 110

112 112

114 114

101

103

105

107 107

109 109

111 111

113 113

216 216

TERRACE TERRACE SUITE SUITE

215 215

TERRACE TERRACE SUITE SUITE

116 116

JUNIORSUITE SUITE JUNIOR

115 115

JUNIORSUITE SUITE JUNIOR

PERU & AMAZON Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Flight Departs Heathrow

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Actual Flying Time

Price

Single Supplement

Dublin

25/04/19 Aer Lingus/LATAM 17:00 Heathrow 22:10 Jorge Chavez 15:15 19:30 15hrs.40 €3,339 €639 Lima 30/05/19 17:00 22:10 15:15 19:30 15hrs.40 €3,579 €639 29/08/19 17:00 22:10 15:15 19:30 15hrs.40 €3,199 €539 24/10/19 17:00 22:10 15:15 19:30 15hrs.40 €3,689 €639 All timings quoted are local. Peru is GMT -5hrs. Single room/cabin supplements are per person, subject to availability.

B R A Z IL Flight Information: LATAM Airlines Airbus318 from London Heathrow to Lima (via Sao Paulo) have generous 32” seat pitch, seat back TV’s and 23kg luggage allowance. Domestic flights within Peru are on B737 aircraft with 32” seat pitch and no seat-back TV. LATAM Airlines Business Class: Enjoy a dedicated check in desk, 44” seat pitch, full flat bed and excellent 3 course meals. Please call for further information.

Aircraft types may be changed without notice.

PRICE INCLUDES

P E RU

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room and includes return scheduled flights, 13 nights' accommodation with breakfast in four and three-star hotels, nine meals, all tours as mentioned, guided visits to the Colca Canyon, Sacred Valley, Pisac market, guided tour of Arequipa, Machu Picchu, Cusco, visits to Uros & Taquile islands, all transfers and one item of luggage per person and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

Lima Machu Picchu

VISAS & HEALTH UK & Irish citizens do not currently need a visa to enter Peru, however your passport should have at least six months’ validity after your return date. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for Peru at least a month before departure.

Puerto Madonaldo

Sacred Valley

Cusco

This tour includes five days at altitudes in excess of 11,000 feet so you do need to be reasonably fit and mobile. Helpful information about the possible effects of altitude sickness can be found on the NHS Fit For Travel website: http://www. fitfortravel.nhs.uk/advice/general-travel-health-advice/altitude-and-travel.aspx.

Key: Route Arrive Train

If you suffer from heart or respiratory problems, anaemia, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy or high blood pressue we stongly recommend you talk to your GP prior to booking. In order to minimise the effects of altitude, we have designed our tour to encourage a slow acclimatisation process by spending the first two nights in the Andes at the slightly lower altitudes of Arequipa, before visiting the higher elevations of Lake Titicaca and Cusco. Our experienced tour managers will also be able to advise on how to minimise the effects of the altitude.

Whilst care has been taken to ensure that the information provided relating to visa requirements is true and correct at time of publication, changes in requirements after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of this information. Therefore, whilst we strive to provide the most up-to-date information, we strongly suggest that you re-confirm requirements with the relevant embassy prior to travel.

Lake Titicaca

Chivay

Depart

Puno

Extension Stay: Route

Arequipa

Transfer Times Lima Airport Airport to 1st Hotel 40 mins Final Hotel to Airport 40 mins Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

DEPOSIT The deposit for Peru is €200 per person.

IMPORTANT NOTES REGARDING YOUR AMAZON STAY Due to limited space available on the boat transfers to the lodge, guests’ luggage is restricted to 22lbs (9.5kg) per person, but the lodge has secure storage available for extra baggage near the airport.

Weather is hot and humid year-round. May to Oct is the ‘dry’ period when exploration on foot is easier, Nov to Apr is the wet season, making it the ideal time to explore by canoe. The lodge also provides ‘wellies’ for all clients, although we recommend some good boots and a lightweight hooded rain jacket or poncho.Electricity is normally limited to 4 hours per day and wifi is very limited in the main lodge.

There are no TVs or air-conditioning, in keeping with the natural environment.

JAPAN: LAND OF THE RISING SUN Airport

Date

Airline

Flight Out of Dublin

Via

Flight Departs Heathrow

Arrival Airport

Arrival in Heathrow

Arrival in Dublin

Flight Duration

Price

Single Supplement

Dublin

13/04/19 Aer Lingus/ All 13:35 Heathrow 19:00 Tokyo Haneda 16:20 20:30 11hrs.45 €4,479 €929 International Nippon 06/06/19 13:35 19:00 16:20 20:30 11hrs.45 €3,919 €839 01/08/19 13:35 19:00 16:20 20:30 11hrs.45 €4,479 €1,059 07/09/19 13:35 19:00 16:20 20:30 11hrs.45 €4,699 €899 All timings local. Japan is GMT +8 hrs. Single supplements are per person (subject to availability).

Flight information: Flying time shown is outbound, inbound flight approx 45 minutes longer. All flights include personal TV’s with hours of entertainment, 34” seat pitch (ANA), amenity kit, complimentary drinks throughout the flight, a choice of meals including vegetarian option, 23kg baggage allowance per person. Please note seats in exit rows are allocated at check-in and ‘bulkhead’ seats are normally reserved for families with infants. Aircraft types and facilities may be changed without prior notice.

All Nippon Premium Economy upgrade subject to availability, please call for further information. Enjoy a dedicated check-in desk, separate cabin area and a wider seat with a pitch of up to 38” with adjustable leg & headrests.

Actual Flying time is based on a departure from the UK and does not include the connecting flights from Dublin Aircraft types and facilities may be changed without prior notice *please note this price is based on premium economy flights

Transfer Times Tokyo Airport Airport to 1st Hotel Final Hotel to Airport Please note: Transfer times are approximate and depend on traffic.

1 hr 10 mins

Key: Route

Nikko National Park

Arrive Depart

JAPAN

Train

Tokyo

PRICE INCLUDES The price for this holiday is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Price includes eleven nights' accommodation, daily breakfast and three meals, direct flights from London Heathrow, two journeys on bullet trains, sightseeing and entrances as described in Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kyoto and Nara, hotel porterage of one item of luggage per person and the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

VISAS Irish Passport holders do not require a visa but other passport holders should check with the relevant embassy. However, please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after the intended return date.

Whilst care has been taken to ensure that the information provided relating to visa requirements is true and correct at time of publication, changes in requirements after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of this information. Therefore, whilst we strive to provide the most up-todate information, we strongly suggest that you re-confirm requirements with the relevant embassy prior to application.

DEPOSIT The deposit for this tour is €200 per person

Kyoto Hakone Okayama Hiroshima

Nara

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Experience traditional Japanese culture with a: tea ceremony, kimono experience, origami lesson or calligraphy lesson for €42 per person; tea ceremony with kimono experience for €73 per person; or sushi or teriyaki chicken cooking lesson for €62 per person. Flower arrangement class bookable locally. Traditional ryokan stay from €139 per person.

149

BOOKING CONDITIONS These booking conditions set out the terms of your contract with Riviera Tours Limited trading as Riviera Travel (Riviera). Please read them carefully as you will be bound by them. References to “you” and “your” and “passenger(s)” means all persons named on the booking (Booking Party) (including those added at a later date) “We”, “us”, “our” means Riviera. For cruises, we will be the contracting carrier.

1. Making your booking Subject to availability, we will confirm your holiday by issuing a confirmation invoice to the party leader who confirms they have authority on behalf of the Booking Party including minors (under the age of 18) and are responsible for obtaining and providing all information and payments required by us in accordance with these booking conditions.

Please check your documents carefully and contact us immediately if any information on any document is incorrect. We cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracies in any document within 10 days of our sending it out (5 days for tickets). You may contact us by e-mail at help@rivieratravel.ie or call us on 01 905 6300.

2. Payment The relevant deposit and insurance premium (if purchased) must be paid to confirm your booking. The balance of the holiday cost is due 8 weeks* prior to the departure. If full payment is not made on time, we will cancel your booking and keep all payments paid at that date and levy the cancellation charges shown in clause 7. If booking within 8 weeks* of departure, full payment must be made at the time of booking. *13 weeks for cruises aboard Aegean Odyssey and Queen Mary 2 departing 2018 onwards, and all European River Cruises, Yacht & Tall Ship Cruises departing from 2019 and14 weeks for Oberammergau Passion Play, Salzburg & Lake Constance and Voyage to Antarctica: The Great White Continent.

3. Your contract A binding contract comes into existence when we issue the confirmation invoice.

4. The cost of your holiday Please note, advertised prices may have changed by the time you book your holiday and errors occasionally occur.

You must check the price of your chosen holiday at the time of booking. We reserve the right to change prices and correct errors in advertised prices at any time before or after your holiday is confirmed. Subject to the correction of errors or amendment costs, once your booking is confirmed we guarantee the price will not change.

5. Special requests Special requests, must be advised at the time of booking. Unless specifically confirmed by us in writing, all special requests are subject to availability.

'No flight' option Tour or cruise-only options are offered subject to availability. Please call for details. Your tour or cruise will begin at the hotel or ship as stated in the itinerary. You must make your own travel arrangements, including any flight or rail travel, plus transfers to the first hotel or ship, and onwards from the final hotel or ship. Riviera Travel is not liable for the cost of any travel arrangements you put in place if the tour or cruise is cancelled or the mooring point changed.

You must send us details of your travel arrangements at least eight weeks prior to your departure.

6. Changes by you Any amendments we agree after issue of the confirmation invoice will cost €15 per person plus any costs incurred by us and or charged by our suppliers. A change of holiday dates is a cancellation of the original booking and the cancellation charges in clause 7 apply. Name changes are allowed 7 days or more prior to travel. All costs must be paid before the amendment can be effected.

7. Cancellation by you Cancellation of the booking must be requested in writing (letter or email) to us which will be effective when received by us. Where the cancellation charge below is shown as a percentage, this is the holiday cost. Insurance premiums and amendment charges are not included in the holiday cost below and are not refundable.

All Aegean Odyssey & QM2 Cruises. All European River Cruises, Yacht and Tall Ship Cruises: Period before departure within Cancellation charge which written notification of per person cancelling cancellation is received by us More than 91 days deposit 90 – 61 days 50% 60 – 31 days 75% 30 – 16 days 85% 15 days or less 100% Oberammergau Passion Play, Salzburg & Lake Constance & Voyage to Antarctica: The Great White Continent: Period before departure within Cancellation charge which written notification of per person cancelling cancellation is received by us More than 98 days deposit 97 – 61 days 50% 60 - 31 days 75% 30 – 16 days 85% 15 days or less 100% All other holidays and cruises Period before departure within which written notification of cancellation is received by us More than 56 days 56 – 31 days 30 – 15 days 14 days or less

Cancellation charge per person cancelling deposit 50% 95% 100%

In addition, change or cancellation of flights and other transport costs can result in 100% cancellation charges irrespective of the date of cancellation. Part cancellation will require recalculation of the holiday price and we will re-invoice you accordingly. A single person supplement will be payable if a cabin or hotel room is occupied by only one person except where 100% cancellation charges have been paid by the person cancelling. See clause 6.

8. Insurance It is a requirement of booking that you have valid and appropriate travel insurance for the full duration of your trip.

You should ensure that your policy provides at least comparable cover to that provided by the policy we offer as shown on our website and brochures.

9. Changes or cancellations by us (1) Changes to confirmed holiday arrangements sometimes have to be made and we reserve the right to do so in accordance with this clause 9. Most changes will be insignificant and we have the right to make these. Where an insignificant change is made before departure, we will notify you in writing. No compensation is payable for insignificant changes. Occasionally, before departure, we may be constrained by circumstances beyond our control to make a significant alteration to any of the main characteristics of the travel services which form part of your confirmed booking or to any special requirements which we have accepted as referred to in clause 5. Where we have to do so, clauses 9(4) and 9(5) will apply.

(2) All alterations which are not significant in accordance with Clause 9(1) will be treated as insignificant changes.

A change of flight time of less than 12 hours, airline, departure airport between London airports (Gatwick, Heathrow, Luton, Stanstead or London City), type of aircraft (if advised) or destination airport will all be treated as insignificant changes.

(3) Our holidays require a minimum number of 35 passengers to enable us to operate them and we reserve the right to cancel any holiday where this minimum number is not achieved by notifying you not less than 20 days prior to departure. Failure to achieve this minimum number does not, however, oblige us to cancel.

(4) In the event we have to significantly alter any of the main characteristics of your confirmed arrangements or accepted special requirements, we will provide you with the following information in writing as soon as possible: (i) the proposed alteration and any impact this has on the price; (ii) in the event that you do not wish to accept the alteration, details of any substitute package we are able to offer (and any price reduction where this is of a lower quality or cost); (iii) your entitlement to cancel your booking and receive a full refund if you do not want to accept the alteration or any substitute package offered; and (iv) the period within which you must inform us of your decision and what will happen if you don’t do so.

(5) If you choose to cancel your booking in accordance with clause 9(4), we will refund all payments you have made to us within 14 days of the date we receive your written cancellation. If we don’t hear from you with your decision within the specified period (having provided you with the above mentioned information for a second time), we will cancel your booking and refund all payments made to us within 14 days of our doing so. No compensation will be payable or other liability accepted where a change results from unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (see clause 10).

(6) Occasionally, it may be necessary to cancel confirmed holiday arrangements. We have the right to terminate your contract in the event (i) we are prevented from performing your contracted holiday arrangements as a result of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (see clause 10) and we notify you of this as soon as reasonably possible or (ii) we have to cancel because the minimum number of bookings necessary for us to operate your holiday has not been achieved and we notify you of cancellation for this reason as referred to in clause 9(3). Where

150

we have to cancel your holiday in these circumstances, we will refund all monies you have paid to us within 14 days of the date we inform you of the cancellation but will have no further or other liability to you including in respect of compensation or any costs or expenses you incur or have incurred. We will of course endeavour to offer you comparable alternative arrangements where possible which you may choose to book in place of those cancelled.

We also have the right to cancel if you fail to make payment in accordance with the terms of your contract in which case clause 2 will apply.

(7) We will, where appropriate, pay you the compensation in the table below. This compensation will not be payable where a change is not significant or we have to make a change or cancel as a result of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances or we have to cancel because the minimum number of bookings has not been achieved as referred to in clause 9(6) (8) In the event that unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occur in the place of destination of your holiday or its immediate vicinity and significantly affect the performance of the contracted arrangements or the carriage of passengers to that destination, you will be entitled to cancel prior to departure without payment of cancellation charges. We will notify you as soon as practicable in the event of this situation occurring.

Period before departure a significant change or cancellation is notified to you

Compensation per person

More than 56 days Nil 56 - 15 days €10 14 days or less €25 Please also see clause 20.

We cannot guarantee that cruises will call at every port on the itinerary. Cancellation of part of the itinerary, substitution of ports or unavailability of some services will not amount to a significant alteration.

10. Unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances We cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance of our obligations is prevented or affected, as a result of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. eventThis means a situation which is beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. Such situations are likely to include (whether actual or threatened) war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, epidemics, fire, closure, restriction or congestion of airspace, airports and ports and all other events outside our control or the UK Foreign Office advice.

11. Our liability to you (1) Subject to clauses 11(6), 11(7) and 11(8), we promise to make sure that the holiday arrangements we have agreed to provide as part of our contract with you are performed with reasonable skill and care.

(2) We are not responsible for any failure in performance which is wholly attributable to your fault or the unforeseeable or unavoidable act or omission of a third party unconnected with the supply of any service to be provided under the contract or by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances.

(3) We are not responsible for any services which do not form part of our contract with you.

(4) The services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract will be subject to the laws and applicable standards of the country in which they are provided.

(5) Subject to clause 11(6), 11(7) and 11(8) or as permitted by English law, we do not limit the amount of damages you are entitled to claim in respect of personal injury or death which we or our employees have caused intentionally or negligently. The maximum amount we will pay is three times the holiday price.

(6) Our liability to you will never exceed that of any transport carrier or supplier and we shall have the benefit of all and any applicable international conventions, rules and regulations. In respect of carriage by air the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail as amended.

Copies of the applicable international conventions and EU regulations are available from us on request.

(7) Where carriage is performed on inland waterways the liability of the carrier to all passengers shall be determined in accordance with the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims. The limit for claims involving death or personal injury is 175,000 SDR per passenger per carriage. The Strasbourg Convention as amended applies to vessels navigating on waterways located in the territory of a state party which limits passenger claims involving death or personal injury to 60,000 SDR per person subject to a maximum of 6,000,000 SDR. (8) In the event of international carriage by sea the provisions of EC Regulation 392/2009 on the liability of carriers of passengers in the event of accidents (“Regulation“) will apply. The Regulation limits the liability of the carrier in respect of passengers and their luggage in the event of accidents. A summary of the Regulation may be found at http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=URISERV:tr0018&from=EN. This applies strict liability for shipping incidents as defined and requires compulsory insurance.

The Regulation limits the maximum amount we may have to pay if found liable in the event of death or personal injury occurring during the course of carriage to a maximum of 400,000 SDR or in the event of terrorism 250,000 SDR. Damages can be reduced for any contributory negligence of the passenger.

The maximum amount payable for loss or damage to luggage is 2,250 SDR subject to a deductible of 149 SDR per person. There is no liability for money or valuables except when deposited with the ship in which case the liability is limited to 3,375 SDR. Provision of safes in cabins is not a deposit with the ship whether a charge is levied or not.

The daily conversion rates for Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) can be found on the International Monetary Fund website at www.imf.org (9) We will not be liable for consequential losses including loss of profits.

12. Complaints and problems All complaints and any problems must be made at the time in resort and confirmed in writing. If you remain dissatisfied you must write to us within 28 days of your return to the UK with booking reference and full details of your complaint.

In respect of cruises which commence in the EU complaints pursuant to EU Regulation 1177/2010 must be sent to us as soon as possible. We will respond within 28 days. If you are not happy with our final decision you can refer your complaint to the Cruise Line International Association which is the voluntary complaints body authorised by the Department of Transport to deal with complaints at Passengerrights@cruising.org.

13. Arbitration We are a Member of ABTA, membership number V4744. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com.

Disputes arising out of, or in connection with your booking which cannot be amicably settled may be referred to arbitration under a special independent scheme arranged by ABTA which provides for a simple arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on the customer in respect of costs. Full details will be provided on request or obtained from www.abta.com. Your application for arbitration and other required documents must be received by ABTA within 18 months of your return from the holiday. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA mediation procedure and we have the option to agree to this.

You can also access the European Commission Online Dispute (ODR) Resolution platform at http://ec.europa.eu/ consumers/odr/. This ODR platform is a means of registering your complaint with us; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved.

14. Behaviour and damage You are responsible for any damage or loss caused by you. Full payment for any such damage or loss must be made on demand as soon as possible. If in our or in the reasonable opinion of any other person in authority, you behave in such a way as to cause or be likely to cause danger, upset or distress to any third party or damage to property, we are entitled to terminate the holiday of the person(s) concerned and or require you to leave the accommodation or other service. We will have no further responsibility to you. No refunds will be made. You must not solicit other persons for commercial purposes or advertise goods or services without our prior written permission.

15. Conditions of suppliers.

You are bound by the terms and conditions and conditions of carriage of our suppliers and independent contractors which we incorporate into these booking conditions which may limit or exclude liability to you. Copies are available on request or online on www.rivieratravel.co.uk/conditionsofsuppliers.

16.Passports, visas and health requirements For guidance we have details on our website of passport and visa requirements applicable to our holidays, together with details of any compulsory health requirements. It is, however, your responsibility to ensure you have and comply with passport and visa requirements, and you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions. We cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to comply with these requirements.

17. Foreign Office advice The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly updated travel information on its website www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice which we recommend you consult before booking and in good time before departure.

18. Financial security and ABTA membership Your contract is with Riviera Tours Limited, having its office at Chase House, City Junction Business Park, Malahide Road, Northern Cross, Dublin 17.

We hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 3430). All flights and flight inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive package from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit, you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent or your credit card issuer where applicable. You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. The Civil Aviation Authority can be contacted at Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK tel +44 (0)333 103 6350, e-mail claims@caa.co.uk www.caa.co.uk.

We are a member of ABTA (ABTA number V4744). If your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday by ensuring you receive a refund or, if your arrangements include return travel (other than flights) you are returned to your point of departure in the event that your holiday cannot be provided as a result of our insolvency. ABTA can be contacted at 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ, UK tel +44 (0)20 3117 0599 www.abta.com.

19. Flights In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community list” which contains details of air carriers who are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The Community list is available for inspection at https://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/search_en . We are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this.

Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative the provisions of clause 9 Changes and cancellation by us will apply. We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm the flight timings which will be used in connection with your flight. The flight timings shown in our brochure, website and/or on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are outside our control. They are set by airlines and are subject to various factors including air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions and the ability of passengers to check in on time.

Specific instructions relating to departure and travel arrangements will be sent with your travel documents approximately 2 weeks before departure. Please check your tickets very carefully to ensure you have the correct flight times. Flight times may be changed even after tickets have been despatched - we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs. Any change in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, and/or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements.

20. Delay and Denied Boarding Regulations For cruises which begin in the EU, EU Regulation 1177/2010 applies. Any liability we have for providing accommodation is limited to €80 per passenger for a maximum of 3 nights.

If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline, depending on the circumstances, the airline may be required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your flight and/or provide you with accommodation and/or refreshments under EC Regulation No 261/2004 - the Denied Boarding Regulations 2004. Where applicable, you must pursue the airline for the compensation or other payment due to you. We are not the carrier and have no liability to you under this Regulation. If your airline does not comply with these rules you may use the CAA Passenger Advice and Complaints Service. See www.caa.co.uk 21. Brochure / website / advertising material accuracy The information contained in our brochure, website and other advertising material is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us at the time of booking.

22. Children For holidays other than cruises, we are unable to accommodate children under 9 years old at the date of departure.

For cruises, the minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise. Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a “Parental Consent Guardianship Form” must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.

23. Health and safety You must attend all mandatory safety briefings and drills at the commencement of the holiday and any subsequent briefings or drills required during the holiday by any carrier or supplier.

You must at all times comply with rules and regulations and the orders and directions of carriers and our suppliers and warrant that your conduct will not impair the safety of others.

We, carriers, our suppliers and/or the relevant authorities are entitled to administer a public health questionnaire at any time. You must complete the questionnaire and supply accurate information regarding any symptoms of illness. We may deny boarding to any passenger who has symptoms of any viral or bacterial illness. You must report illness and you may be required to remain in your cabin or hotel room as required by the ship’s captain or the hotel manager. Refusal to comply with any of these procedures may result in your holiday being terminated.

We have no liability to you in the event that we cancel or curtail your holiday as referred to in this clause.

In respect of cruises which commence in an EU Member State and where necessary in order to meet applicable international, European and national safety requirements and/or where the design or structure of the ship or port infrastructure and equipment, including port terminals, makes it impossible to carry out the embarkation, disembarkation or carriage of a passenger suffering from a disability of reduced mobility in a safe or operationally feasible manner, we and the carrier are entitled to refuse a booking from the person concerned. Passengers must be fully mobile to travel on any cruise. We cannot provide individual assistance to any passenger for walking, embarking or disembarking or travelling on other forms of transportation. In the event that you require assistance with embarking or disembarking from the ship at the first or last port as a result of your reduced mobility or disability, please advise us at the time of booking but in any event no later than 48 hours before the assistance is required. Some ships may not have elevators. You must check at the time of booking. Some excursions require a good level of physical fitness and do not have vehicles and/or there are restrictions re access. Regulation 1177/2010 may be viewed at http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32010R1177&from=EN and the DFT Guidance at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/draft-guidance-notes-relating-to-regulationeu-no-1177-2010.

The carrier, acting via the captain, reserves the right to refuse passage, disembark or confine to a cabin any passenger whose physical or mental condition or behaviour is considered in the sole opinion of the captain to constitute a risk to the passenger’s own well-being or that of any other passenger or crew member. The carrier and the captain reserve the right to disembark any passenger whose behaviour affects the comfort, enjoyment, safety or well-being of other passengers or of any crew.

During passage through locks or under low bridges or in the event of adverse weather conditions, it may be necessary to close the sundeck to passengers. Sundeck closures are rigidly enforced in the interests of safety. Ships may be required to moor alongside one another in some ports. This may result in your view being blocked. It may also result in your having to cross other ships in order to go ashore.

While we take reasonable steps to minimise noise and vibrations on the cruise ships, you acknowledge and accept that some noise and vibration may be experienced on vessels and that we will not be liable to you in relation to such noise and vibration.

24. Food allergies If you have any food allergies which may cause significant health issues, you must report this in writing at the time of booking or as soon as convenient. It is your responsibility to ensure that you actively avoid any food you are allergic to and make all appropriate enquiries to establish the ingredients of any food. The supplier is not under any obligation to prepare or provide special meals.

25. Smoking Passengers must observe the non-smoking policy on board the ships, hotels and other transport provided. If smoke is detected in any accommodation, a cleaning fee of €165.00 per occurrence will be billed to the passenger's account. Smoking restrictions include e-cigarette smoking. If there is violation of the non-smoking policy, then passengers may be disembarked from the ship or asked to leave the hotel without refund.

26. Indemnity You must indemnify us and the carrier for all penalties, fines, charges, losses or expenses incurred or imposed upon us, the carrier or our suppliers by virtue of an act or violation of law by you and or any breach of these terms and conditions or any carrier’s or suppliers terms and conditions of conditions of carriage.

27. Pregnancy The river cruise ships, yachts and Star Clipper ships do not have doctors or facilities to deliver babies or providenatal treatment. We recommend that women who are less than 12 weeks pregnant seek medical advice prior to travel.

For safety reasons women past their 24th week of pregnancy at any stage of the cruise cannot be carried on board.

Airlines also have restrictions.

Pregnant women are required to produce a fitness to travel certificate based on the proposed holiday itinerary and transport provider’s requirements. The carrier expressly reserves the right to refuse passage to board to any passenger who appears to be in an advanced state of pregnancy and the carrier shall have no liability whatsoever in respect of either such refusal and/or the carriage.

28. Medical facilities/treatment on board and ashore There are no doctors on board any of the river cruise ships, yachts and Star Clipper ships in our programme. Should you require medical attention during your holiday then local medical services can be contacted for emergency treatment. The cost of such treatment is your sole responsibility. We are not be liable for any aspect of medical treatment provided to you ashore or in resort.

If you have any medical condition which may need treatment during a cruise, this must be disclosed at the time of booking in order for a risk assessment to be undertaken as to whether you can be safely carried. You may be asked to provide medical evidence for this purpose. Carriage is dependent on the nature and extent of the medical condition, the itinerary and length of cruise.

In relation to other holidays please notify us in writing of any medical or reduced mobility needs at the resort or on transport provided by us. This includes adapted hotel rooms and assistance at airports.

In relation to your own medical equipment, there are limited storage facilities on board ships and in hotels. You must check prior to booking if the equipment is allowed on board aircraft, ships or hotels. Scooters cannot be carried on board ships due to space limitations and reasons of safety.

29. Disability/wheelchairs/service animals During our holidays, we visit many historical sites and often enjoy walking tours of various places of interest.

Some holidays, therefore, may not be suitable for clients of impaired mobility. Before you make your booking, we will advise you as to whether the proposed holiday arrangements are generally suitable for someone with reduced mobility. However, reduced mobility of course means different things to different individuals as we fully appreciate that individual capabilities, restrictions and requirements are likely to vary considerably. When we refer to reduced mobility, this means any material reduction in mobility whether this is permanent or temporary and whether caused by age or by physical or mental disability or impairment or other cause of disability.

Our priority is always the comfort and safety of passengers as well as complying with the strict legal requirements relating to safety of life at sea and inland waterways. In order to achieve these objectives, passengers with reduced mobility or disability or who need assistance dogs should at the time of booking provide as much detail as possible of the matters set out on our website at www.rivieratravel.co.uk/reducedmobilityinformation. Passengers may be required to be accompanied or may be refused carriage. You warrant that you have considered the INFORMATION TO PASSENGERS FOR REDUCED MOBILITY AND DISABILITIES and that you have made all relevant notifications to us.

Please be aware that there are no wheelchair accessible cabins on any of the river cruise ships, yachts and Star Clipper ships used on our cruises. Disabled rooms in hotels are limited in number and so must be prebooked and subject to availability.

30. Security Weapons, ammunition, explosives, substances that are hazardous, disabling, or illegal, or any other article that in the sole opinion of the captain may be considered dangerous, are strictly prohibited aboard the ship or carried on any form of transport or hotels.

You consent to a reasonable search being made of your person, property, cabin, hotel room and to the removal and confiscation or destruction of any object which may, in our opinion or that of any carrier or supplier will impair the safety of others or of property or be illegal or inconvenience others.

31. Assistance whilst away In the event you end up in difficulty (of any sort) during your holiday, we will provide you with appropriate assistance as soon as reasonably possible including by the provision of appropriate information on health services, local authorities and consular assistance and by assisting you to make distance communications and to find alternative travel arrangements as may be applicable. Where you are in difficulty as a result of your negligence, we may charge you a reasonable fee for this assistance which will not exceed the costs we actually incur.

32. Data Protection We are a data controller for the purposes of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018 (data protection laws). Personal data will be collected, processed, stored and used securely and in accordance with our privacy policy and data protection laws. Please see our data protection privacy policy.

33. Law and Jurisdiction Save as provided by law and subject to the provisions of the Regulation all claims must be brought in the English courts which shall have exclusive jurisdiction and shall be subject to English law.

Comprehensive Holiday Insurance from only €20.70 Travel insurance is a vital aspect of booking any holiday, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your holiday. To assist you with this, we have arranged competitive travel insurance from Travel & General Insurance Services Limited to specifically meet your needs on a Riviera Travel holiday. It is a condition of booking that you purchase travel insurance that properly covers you for the holiday you are taking.

Travel insurance is provided by Riviera Travel as an appointed representative of Travel & General Insurance Services Limited who are authorised and regulated by the FCA and details can be found on their website www. fca.org.uk.

Our Insurance Premiums (per person) Europe Age on date of travel up to 5 days 6-8 days 9-15 days 18-65 €20.70 €31.09 €36.30 66-69 €36.30 €41.50 €46.69 70-74 €36.30 €46.69 €57.10 75-79 €57.10 €67.49 €77.89 80+ €67.50 €88.30 €109.09 Rates are in Euros and include Tax & Levy

Worldwide excl N.America up to 16 days up to 26 days €50.96 €71.76 €82.16 €102.96 €92.56 €109.20

N.America up to 17 days €71.76 €102.96 €113.36

Please Call +44 844 826 2725

It is a condition of the policy that you must declare all pre-existing medical conditions for yourself and anyone else named as an insured on the policy, your immediate family and any travelling companions to Healthcheck on +441702 427179 to ensure that you have the appropriate cover.

A policy booklet is provided which contains all of the terms and conditions and must be read carefully to ensure that it meets your requirements. You may return the policy and the proof of purchase for any reason within 14 days of purchase to receive a full refund provided that you have not travelled or made a claim.

If you have any queries regarding the insurance you can contact Travel & General Insurance Company on +44845 345 3456.

It is a condition of booking that everyone travelling with us is adequately covered, so if you do not takeout our insurance please state the name and number of your policy at the time of booking.

For your protection, Riviera Travel is fully licensed and bonded by the Commission for Aviation Regulation (T.O. 257)

151

Brochure Code

The world. Within reach.

AWA R D -W I N N I N G LUXU RY RIVE R C RU IS ES I N E U RO PE 2019

T H E A D R I AT I C C OA S T BY YAC H T M S A DR I AT IC S U N MS IL MARE

• •

M S AQ UA M A R I N • M V C ORON A M V M A R E B L U • M V R I VA

2019

Luxury river cruises in Europe

The Adriatic Coast by yacht

At Riviera Travel, we bring the heartbeat of our destinations closer.

We plan it all around you, including what’s essential and leaving the unnecessary out, so experiencing the world doesn’t cost the earth.

Contact your preferred travel agent to book or visit www.rivieratravel.ie for more information.

Riviera Travel, Chase House, City Junction Business Park, Malahide Road, Northern Cross, Dublin D17 AK63, Ireland Tel: 01 905 6300 www.rivieratravel.ie Published 1/19

Prices and availability correct at time of print.

All rights reserved.

AGENT