(AUD) Topdeck | Asia 2018/19

EPIC TRIPS FOR 18 TO 30 SOMETHINGS

2017-19

Prices & itineraries valid until 7th April 2019

EXPLORE JAPAN, THAILAND, BALI, CHINA, VIETNAM, LAOS, CAMBODIA AND MORE

BEST TOUR OPERATOR INTERNATIONAL 2017

WINNER 2017 NAT

IO N A

L T R AV E

L I N D U S T RY

AWA

RDS

WE ARE TOPDECK

02

WE ARE TOPDECK.

A COLLECTIVE OF EXPLORERS WHO ARE DEVOTED TO TRAVEL, WE STRIVE TO OPEN MINDS, SHIFT PERSPECTIVES, LEARN NEW THINGS AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE. OUR PASSION IS TO INSPIRE YOUNG PEOPLE THROUGH LIFE-CHANGING TRAVEL EXPERIENCES. OUR BUSINESS IS TO MAKE TRAVEL DREAMS A REALIT Y.

We know what works.

And we’re not afraid to shout about it.

We refuse to sacrifice quality, independence and freedom, and believe solo adventures should go hand in hand with unforgettable moments with like-minded travellers.

We offer variety, comfort and value for money, and promise a hassle-free holiday, loaded with authentic local experiences.

We are lively, curious, knowledgeable and dedicated; driven by the desire to laugh and have fun.

We build the trips.

You build the memories.

ARE YOU READY TO DISCOVER WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A #TOPDECKER? LET’S GO.

03

04 WANT SOME INSPIRATION? We've got you covered.

WHAT'S IN THIS BROCHURE

WHAT'S IN THIS BROCHURE BEIJING

JAPAN TAKAYAMA

HIROSHIMA

XIAN

TOKYO

KYOTO OSAKA KOYASAN

SHANGHAI

CHINA

CHENGDU

LONGSHENG YANGSHUO

HONG KONG HANOI HALONG BAY

LAOS CHIANG RAI

VANG VIENG

CHIANG MAI

INDONESIA HUE HOI AN

THAILAND BANGKOK

SIEM REAP

BALI

VIETNAM

GILI TRAWANGAN UBUD LEMBONGAN ISLAND

CAMBODIA

SEMINYAK

PHNOM PENH

WHY TOPDECK 06

HO CHI MINH CITY VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER

In case you needed persuading.

OUR CREW

09

DELICIOUS FOOD

10 FREEDOM TO EXPLORE

Our dedicated Topdeck Crew make the best travel pals, ever.

Get ready for tingling tastebuds.

Put down the itinerary and discover more.

12

16

18

38

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES For those extra-special memories.

HOSTEL TRIPS This mix of stays suits funseeking travellers who are looking for a taste of adventure.

VALUE FOR MONEY

44

PICK YOUR STYLE All travellers are different.

So, what's your travel flavour?

STOPOVERS Make the most of a few days away with our handy stopovers in Bangkok and Singapore.

44

14

HOTEL TRIPS Our Hotel trips offer private ensuite twin-share/double rooms with all the amenities you’ll need.

CONNECT WITH US Share the travel love and learn what it means to be a true #Topdecker.

15

WHERE WE GO

04

13 AWESOME TRIPS IN

Asia

BEIJING

XIAN

SHANG

27 DAY ASIAN FUSION

CHINA

CHENGDU

LONGSHENG YANGSHUO

With 27 days to check out bucket list musts across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, this is the ultimate Asian adventure. Expect colourful food, ancient temples, breathtaking sunrises, local encounters and more on this journey through Southeast Asia.

HONG KONG

P. 36

HANOI HALONG BAY

LAOS CHIANG RAI

7 DAY THAI ISLANDS SAMUI SUNSETS

VANG VIENG

CHIANG MAI HUE HOI AN

THAILAND BANGKOK

SIEM REAP

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

With endless beaches, muay thai and coconuts for days, Thailand is where it’s at. Koh Samui, Koh

PHNOM PENH HO CHI MINH CITY VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER

Phangan and Koh Tao will bring the sunrise/sunset action. Plus: the best pad thai, an optional full day Angthong Island tour and 1,000 chances to work on that tan. Winning!

P. 22

WHERE WE GO

05

JAPAN TAKAYAMA

TOKYO

KYOTO

HIROSHIMA

OSAKA KOYASAN

12 DAY JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS

HAI

7 DAY BALI ISLAND HOPPER Make like a bullet train and travel across the Land of the Rising Sun in style on this trip of a lifetime. From Tokyo to Osaka via Kyoto, we’re talking must-do experiences: city tours, hot springs and more than a few visits to some seriously picture-

12 DAY CHINA LIVE

Island hop your way around paradise on this 7 day trip.

perfect temples and shrines.

Kawaii poses at the ready!

P. 26

Think: delicious Indonesian food and more pristine beaches than you can shake a snorkel at.

Plus, there’s always tanning and #views to keep you busy. Talk about ultimate island vibes!

P. 24 Prepare yourself for adventure: China is calling! Sample the very

INDONESIA

best this country has to offer, from checking out the Terracotta Warriors and Tiananmen Square to taking a walk along that jumbo wall you may have heard about.

Plus, two words: dim sum. Dig in and work that chopstick magic.

P. 28

BALI GILI TRAWANGAN UBUD LEMBONGAN ISLAND SEMINYAK

why

WHY TOPDECK

06

Unique

EXPERIENCES

Passion

& EXPERTISE

Freedom

Our one-of-a-kind included and

With over 40 years in the travel

We realise that everyone’s

optional activities in both iconic

industry, a team of passionate crew

different – which is why our

hotspots and off-the-beaten-track

and a collection of award-winning

trips offer loads of free time

places mean there’s never a dull

trips under our belt, you can be sure

to play, discover and channel

moment on your trip of a lifetime.

we know our stuff.

your inner explorer.

TO EXPLORE

WHY TOPDECK

07

Delicious

Value

Lasting

FOOD

FOR MONEY

FRIENDSHIPS

With visits to local restaurants

With no hidden costs and our

Memories fade but Facebook

and delicious cuisine awaiting

No Tipping policy, we've got all

friends are forever. Hang out with

us on street food tours, we’ll

the important stuff covered –

other young explorers aged 18-39

ensure your tummy is just

meaning you score a great value

and create bonds that last longer

as full as your passport.

trip, completely hassle-free.

than your festival wristband.

how we

08

BOATS THAILAND, BALI, VIETNAM & LAOS ‘Seas’ the day (like what we did there?) and hold on to your hats: several of our trips include boat journeys. We’re talking speedboats and ferries in Thailand and Bali (ten points if you spot a dolphin), comfy long boats in Laos and junk cruises in Halong Bay for some out-of-this-world scenery. Get ready for a nautical adventure of epic proportions. It’s a tough life.

From boats to planes, we’ll make sure the journey is just as fun as the adventure. Ready to make a move? Let’s go.

TOPDECK VEHICLE EVERYWHERE

With a range of different vehicles depending on which country you’re travelling in, you’ll hit the road and see all the sights from the best viewpoint ever.

TRAIN THAILAND, CHINA, VIETNAM & JAPAN All aboard in Thailand, China, Vietnam and Japan as you catch the train from A to B. Hang out with locals, bond with your travel buddies, gawk at the breathtaking scenery outside your window or even catch some shut-eye on an overnight journey. Headed to Japan? Get ready for 320km/h speeds as you dart across the country on the super modern Shinkansen (Bullet Train).

FLIGHTS CHINA, THAILAND & VIETNAM Some of our China, Thailand and Vietnam trips include flights to get you to your next destination as quick as a flash. We’ve got places to go and people to see – so rack up some air miles and skip to the good bits!

OUR CREW

The trip leader was organised and informative.

The accommodation and destinations were all top notch! The tour was great. I feel like I've had a good taste of what Japan has to offer.

TRIP: Japan Highlights, JAPAN

With a thirst for adventure, an endless stream of knowledge and let’s face it, a keen eye for a hearty local meal, our dedicated Topdeck Crew make the best travel pals, ever.

Really good local guides, awesome activities, well organised, informative, fun, friendly, enjoyable experiences, and really good recommendations from the local guides!

TRIP: Asian Fusion, SOUTHEAST ASIA

They got all their basics right, especially very helpful and genuinely warm guides.

I'd definitely recommend Topdeck to all my friends.

TRIP: Bali Island Hopper, INDONESIA

Best way to see Asia at such an affordable price. Everyone was so friendly and it was a great way to meet new people. Highly recommended.

I’ll certainly do Topdeck again.

TRIP: Vietnam Uncovered, VIETNAM

The places we visited each offered something unique and the people you meet on tour become lifelong friends. Our tour leader was incredible and helped us find things to do in our free days.

TRIP: Thai Islands Ko-Conut Hopper, THAILAND

OUR CREW

09

DELICIOUS FOOD

10

delicious Some may bring home a tacky souvenir, others a picture-perfect postcard. But that epic feast you ate while on the trip of a lifetime?

That’s a memory that will stay with you forever. Dig in!

DELICIOUS FOOD

11

YAKITORI IN OSAKA JAPAN Japanese cuisine isn’t all sushi, you know. Pro tip: hit up Osaka and try yakitori, aka some of the finest chicken-on-a-stick you’ll ever taste.

You’re guaranteed to work up a hunger of Godzilla proportions as you cook the skewered meat and veg deliciousness on your very own hot plate. Get your grill on!

STREET EATS TUK TUK TOUR IN BANGKOK THAILAND You haven’t done Thailand if you haven’t ridden in those three-wheeled taxis. Yep, we’re looking at you tuk tuks!

Whizz around and discover a treasure trove of authentic local foods on this multi-stop foodie tour. Did we mention you’ll eat at the ‘best pad thai restaurant in Bangkok’? You’re welcome.

HOT POT IN CHENGDU CHINA

DINNER AT KOTO VIETNAM Yummy food for a great cause?

That’s what the inspiring KOTO training centre/restaurant is all about. This social enterprise gives disadvantaged youth the amazing opportunity to learn skills in the hospitality sector for the chance to secure a brighter future. Taste their culinary creations and help make a difference.

Channel your inner chef in Chengdu as you work your foodie magic on a traditional hot pot dish. Meat + veggies + seasoning + simmering hot pot of broth = seriously Instaworthy moments. Roll up those sleeves and get cooking with your fellow Topdeckers, Chengdu style.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

12

CHENGDU, CHINA

INCLUDED

PANDA CONSERVATION CENTRE

TRISHAW CITY TOUR

STAY IN A TRADITIONAL JAPANESE GUESTHOUSE

One word. PANDAS! Prepare to get your heart stolen by some black-and-white balls of fluff. By visiting the officially recognised conservation centre, you’ll be doing your part to help these adorable animals. Watch these beauties roam, brush up on your panda knowledge and get ready for a large dose of cuteness.

Roll out the tatami mat: we’re on our way to peace, tranquility and humbling mountain views. Welcome to a traditional Japanese guesthouse, also known as a ryokan. Expect: wooden frames, sliding doors and minimalist vibes. Did we mention there’s an onsen nearby? #bliss

KOYANSA , JAPAN

Take to the streets of Chiang Mai in style on the ultimate tricycle: the traditional three-wheeled trishaw. Pedalled around by a burly local, you’ll see the sights and sounds of the city from a unique perspective, no leg work required.

This one’ll go down a treat on Snapchat.

CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

INCLUDED INCLUDED

13

SEAPLANE OVER HALONG BAY

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

LEMBONGAN ISLAND, INDONESIA

Add that extra touch of magic to your visit to the grotto-strewn paradise of Halong Bay by taking to the air for some breathtaking bird’s-eye views. Let the emerald waters and countless islands hypnotise you as you come in to land sporting some serious goosebumps.

HALONG BAY, VIETNAM

INCLUDED

OPTIONAL

Yep, you read that right – you can legit walk along the ocean floor. We’re not kidding. Channel your inner Ariel from The Little Mermaid and become friends with all the marine life as you explore the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Lembongan Island on a Marine Walk.

VIETNAM COUNTRYSIDE GUESTHOUSE Time to #livelikealocal. Get settled in and experience a slice of Vietnamese life on the famous Mekong Delta.

Help prepare a home-cooked dinner and learn about local culture in this countryside retreat set in a dreamy maze of rivers, swamps and paddy fields. You could get used to this.

MEKONG DELTA , VIETNAM

INCLUDED

Walk along the bottom of the ocean

FREEDOM TO EXPLORE

14

freedom to Put down the itinerary, stray from the crowd and make good use of your free time with some of these not-to-be-missed experiences.

Freedom never felt so good.

KOH TAO ISLAND KOH TAO, THAILAND

GEISHA SPOTTING IN KYOTO KYOTO, JAPAN

Become a voluntary castaway with your fellow Topdeckers on Koh Tao, one of Mother Nature’s most achingly beautiful sun-soaked isles. With natural marvels like secluded bays, emerald waters and hidden coves, plus must-do experiences like snorkelling, street food sampling and beach bar-hopping, you’ll never be short on ‘pinch yourself’ moments.

Give the tourists the slip and sneak away to a lesser-known spot (ask your Trip Leader) for a super stealthy round of geisha I-spy. Optional: go deep undercover, get that lipstick on point and dress as a maiko.

More of a warrior type? Samurai outfits also encouraged. Not a day to leave your camera in the hotel.

EXPLORE UBUD UBUD, INDONESIA Culture, yoga, nature… we could go on.

Channel your inner explorer and check out what this colourful town has to offer.

Think: hanging out with cheeky rascals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, weaving through miles of rice paddies and filling up every corner of your backpack with mementos from the local markets.

VALUE FOR MONEY

15

VALUE FOR MONEY Check out how you’ll get more bang for your buck with Topdeck.

NO HIDDEN COSTS

Thanks to our No Tipping policy you don’t need to worry about extra cash for hidden fees and payments.

The result? You’ve got more left over to spend on the fun stuff!

LOGISTICS: SORTED

Our Trip Leaders have got your back. So, no researching routes, booking transport tickets or bus depot waiting rooms.

We’ve also got your accommodation sorted.

You’re welcome.

UNLOCK THE HIGHLIGHTS

Tick off those bucket list items. We’ve done the haggling for you, which means easier access to those holiday musts: landmarks, museums, food tours and loads more locally sourced experiences.

Explorers assemble!

No Strings GUARANTEE

INCLUDED MEALS

We know food and we’re not afraid to shout about it. With plenty of included meals, you can look forward to lots of hearty feasts throughout your trip.

PAY THE BALANCE VIA INSTALMENTS THAT BEST SUIT YOU

WAYS TO SAVE

FRIENDS DISCOUNT

ENJOY A FLEXIBLE ROLLING DEPOSIT, SHOULD YOU CHANGE YOUR MIND

* D I S C O U N T S C A N B E C O M B I N E D U P T O A T O TA L O F 10% .

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T T H I S A N D O U R O T H E R D I S C O U N T S P L E A S E V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E .

MULTI TRIP DISCOUNT

10% 10% SAVE

* B O O K A N D PAY I N F U L L

BY JANUARY 15TH 2018

MAKE CHANGES TO YOUR BOOKING AT NO EXTRA COST

Our Trip Leaders and local guides will offer you all of the tips and tricks that can’t be found anywhere else so that you can focus on the memory making.

More

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT*

SECURE YOUR BOOKING WITH A LOW $200 DEPOSIT

EXPERT GUIDES ON-HAND

SAVE UP TO

PAST PASSENGER

10% 5 % SAVE UP TO

SAVE

* B O O K A N D PAY I N F U L L B Y 15 J A N 2 0 1 8 .

E A R LY B I R D D I S C O U N T A P P L I E S T O D E PA RT U R E S F R O M 1 A P R 2 0 1 8 .

F O R T & C S V I S I T W W W.T O P D E C K .T R AV E L O R S E E P. 46

p ick you r

PICK YOUR ST YLE

16

From hostels to hotels, we've got your accommodation sorted.

Because all travellers are different

All travellers are different. Some like creature comforts and others like discovering up-and-coming destinations. As long as you have the urge to explore, experience new things and meet awesome people, you’ll find that our trip styles cater to (almost) everyone. BYO fondness for a really good time.

EMM HOI AN, HOI AN

PICK YOUR ST YLE

17

HOTEL TRIPS

HOSTEL PLUS TRIPS

Fit for couples and singles alike who are looking for creature comforts, our hotel trips offer private ensuite twin-share/double rooms with all the amenities you’ll need. Comfy stays that are centrally located or close to transport links, you can expect a little more ‘me-time’ and space to spread out.

Get the most out of your Topdeck trip without breaking the bank. From modern hostels to hotel upgrades and traditional junk boats, you’ll stay in varied multi-share accommodation. Our most social trip style, Hostel Plus is perfect for fun-seeking travellers.

ACCOMMODATION +3 STAR HOTELS/GUEST HOUSES

ACCOMMODATION HOSTELS/CABINS/3-STAR HOTEL UPGRADES

TRIP LENGTH 7-27 DAYS

TRIP LENGTH 7-8 DAYS

ROOM T YPES SINGLE/TWIN/DOUBLE

ROOM T YPES TWIN-SHARE/DOUBLE/MULTI-SHARE

AGORA ASAKUSA, TOKYO

VILA OMBAK HOTEL , GILI TRAWANGAN

MAY DE VILLE LEGEND HOTEL, HANOI

HOTEL KOH TAO NAME, HILLSIDE CITY RESORT, KOH TAO

EMM HOI AN, HOI AN

TOWN HOUSE SAIGON 373, HO CHI MINH CITY

HOTEL

HOTEL

18

Fit for couples and singles alike who are looking for creature comforts, our Hotel trips offer private ensuite twin-share/double rooms with all the amenities you’ll need. With properties that are centrally located or close to transport links, you can expect a little more

KOH TAO HILLSIDE, KOH TAO

‘me-time’ and space to spread out.

ACCOMMODATION

3+ STAR HOTELS/MOTELS/GUEST HOUSES

TRIP LENGTH 7-27 DAYS

ROOM TYPES

SINGLE/TWIN-SHARE/DOUBLE

HOTEL

19

DAYS | TRIP NAME

PAGE

SECTOR

7 DAY | SKI JAPAN

20

7 DAY | THAI ISL ANDS KO-CONUT HOPPER

21

•

7 DAY | THAI ISL ANDS SAMUI SUNSETS

22

•

7 DAY | BALI ISL AND HOPPER

24

12 DAY | JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS

26

12 DAY | CHINA LIVE

28

13 DAY | VIETNAM UNCOVERED

30

13 DAY | MY THAI

32

14 DAY | CL ASSIC THAIL AND

33

15 DAY | ROAD TO PHNOM PENH

34

27 DAY | ASIAN FUSION

36

•

What are sectors?

•

Sector trips offer you a great way to choose the departure city, set of experiences or journey length that best suits you. A Sector trip is part of a larger journey, meaning your new friends might continue on after you leave, or you might be joining a trip already in progress.

7 D A Y | S K I J A PA N

HOTEL

20

TOKYO

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

TOKYO

8

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

DAY STOP

Hakuba

6

START/FINISH

Tokyo JAPAN

CLOCKWISE: KATSU CURRY, HAKUBA, HAKUBA, JIGOKUDANI MONKEY PARK

TRIP CODE: AHJSTT S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

FINISH 2018/19

2017/18 17

DEC

23

DEC

9

DEC

15

DEC

7

JAN

13

JAN

16

DEC

22

DEC

14

JAN

20

JAN

6

JAN

12

JAN

21

JAN

27

JAN

20

JAN

26

JAN

28

JAN

3

FEB

27

JAN

2

FEB

4

FEB

10

FEB

10

FEB

16

FEB

11

FEB

17

FEB

24

FEB

2

MAR

3

MAR

9

MAR

18

FEB

24

FEB

25

FEB

3

MAR

4

MAR

10

MAR

11

MAR

17

MAR

18

MAR

24

MAR

TRIP PRICE OF $2580

TRIP PRICE OF $3229

TRIP PRICE OF $2830 Price based on Per Person twin-share/double

7 DAYS FROM

2580

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

DAY 1 TOKYO TO HAKUBA, JAPAN. Hurtle to Hakuba on an express train. Your challenge is to try and get a decent picture of one of the snow-covered mountains you zip past. Then meet your local crew and get briefed on where all the fun’s at. This is it. Get excited.

(D) DAY 2 HAKUBA. Find your zen, then flock to the mountains and take it at either beginner or ninja pace. Top tip: rent snow shoes to avoid an embarrassing ice dance on the way back. Later, the afternoon is all yours to head out for some yakiniku (grilled meat). Cue après-ski Hakuba-style tonight if you’re up for it. (B) DAY 3 HAKUBA. Wake up and get pumped. It’s your second day in skiing paradise. Sweet! Shuttle it to one of the other nearby resorts and show us your best ski moves. After a hard (read: fun) day on the slopes, stop for a drink at an izakaya or refuel with a bowl of steaming hot katsu curry. Eat, sleep, ski, repeat. (B) DAY 4 HAKUBA. If you want to try something a little bit different today, hit up Hakuba 47 snowpark then soak your sore muscles in the onsen pools. Talk about perfect! (B) DAY 5 HAKUBA. Wanna take a break from the powder today? Take the option to visit the snow monkeys (seasonal). Aww! Missed the powder? You can still ski in the dark. Go for a night ski in renowned Kashimayari at the southern end of Hakuba valley.

So. Much. Snow. (B)

M RO YF D DA AU ON R 69 S P E $3 P E R R PE

DAY 6 HAKUBA. Last recommendations. For the skiers: Goryu and Iwatake for long cruising trails and uninterrupted skiing. For the snowboarders: tree skiing at Cortina’s ungroomed trails and terrain parks, half-pipes, gullies and powder bowls in Hakuba. Dig into a farewell dinner tonight with the crew. No one likes to brag, but we do love sharing stories of our new-found skills. (B,D) DAY 7 HAKUBA TO TOKYO. Chill out this morning because we’re out of here after breakfast. Hop on the express train back to Tokyo. Swap numbers and plan that reunion for the next ski adventure. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Express train to & from Hakuba ++ Welcome & farewell dinner ++ Hakuba Ski Pass (days 2–7)

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++

6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) 6 nights in hotel accommodation Small group Awesome Trip Leader

START MEET AT 6.30AM IN TOKYO FINISH APPROXIMATELY 7PM IN TOKYO

7 DAY |THAI ISL ANDS KO-CONUT HOPPER PHUKET

8

MEALS

1

HOTEL

PHUKET

21

COUNTRY

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY STOP

2

Krabi

2 START/FINISH

Phuket THAILAND

2 Koh Phi Phi

CLOCKWISE: KRABI, KOH PHI PHI, PHUKET

DAY 1 PHUKET, THAILAND. Make your way to the hotel to meet and greet the crew and start planning tomorrow’s adventures. Feast on a welcome dinner and catch some zzz’s before tomorrow’s kick off. (D) DAY 2 PHUKET. Start your morning with an optional trip to Coral Island and Racha Island. Any guesses what we’ll find here? That’s right – coral reefs that will make your jaw drop. If that wasn’t enough, we’ve got flawless beaches and white sand for you to soak up. Got problems? Not in the ocean. Paddle in its calm waters and enjoy. If you prefer to stay on the mainland, go forth and explore artsy coffee shops, eccentric local galleries and bright textiles stores.

Shop until the sun goes down. (B) DAY 3 PHUKET TO KRABI. Pack up out of Phuket and arrive into the insanely pretty town of Krabi. Grab a coconut, jump into 50 shades of blue waters then work on your tan. Hop on the optional kayak trip and paddle around mangroves in Ao Thalane. (B) DAY 4 KRABI. Did someone say para-para-paradise?

Look up and around – you’re here baby! After you’ve got your bearings in and around town, how about a beach sesh? If that doesn’t cut it, take an optional full day ‘Poda 4 Islands’ tour by speedboat. Later, climb to a rooftop café if time allows and watch the sun go down. (B) DAY 5 KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI. Majestic and relaxed Koh Phi Phi is all yours today as we love and leave Krabi behind us. With no cars on the island, Koh Phi Phi is a walking haven to explore and get lost in. Make the most of those beach vibes or head to the quirky town for souvenirs and goodies to take home. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Island stays on Phuket & Koh Phi Phi ++ Ferry transfers between islands ++ Welcome & farewell dinner

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++

6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) 6 nights in hotel accommodation Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader

TRIP CODE: AHIWUU S TA R T

FINISH 2018/19

NOV

25

NOV

G

11

NOV

17

NOV

3

DEC

9

DEC

G

25

NOV

1

DEC

17

DEC

23

DEC

G

9

DEC

15

DEC

31

DEC

6

JAN

G

20

JAN

26

JAN

14

JAN

20

JAN

G

3

FEB

9

FEB

11

FEB

17

FEB

G

17

MAR

23

MAR

17

MAR

23

MAR

25

FEB

3

MAR

25

MAR

31

MAR

8

APR

14

APR

22

APR

28

APR

TOP OPTIONALS

This is a section of the 13 Day My Thai trip.

See p.32 or visit our website.

S TA R T

19

++ Kayaking at Ao Thalane ++ Coral Island & Racha Island day trip START MEET AT 2PM IN PHUKET FINISH APPROXIMATELY 4PM IN PHUKET

FINISH 2017/18

G G G

G

TRIP PRICE OF $1060

TRIP PRICE OF $1049

TRIP PRICE OF $1275

TRIP PRICE OF $1189

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $559

7 DAYS FROM

1049

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

DAY 6 KOH PHI PHI. Today, take an optional speedboat excursion to Koh Yao Noi Island before returning for some chill out time. Make the most of your last day here, you’ll miss it when it’s gone. (B,D) DAY 7 KOH PHI PHI TO PHUKET. After breakfast we’re off home — you might want to stick around to work on that tan. And have one last coconut. Obvs. (B)

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 50 S P E $1 P E R R PE

7 DAY | THAI ISL ANDS SAMUI SUNSETS

HOTEL

22

KOH SAMUI

KOH SAMUI

8

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

CLOCKWISE: KOH TAO, KOH SAMUI, KOH PHANGAN, KOH TAO

YOUR ROUTE

2

1 STOP & STAY

DAY STOP

Koh Tao

Koh Phangan

2

2 START/FINISH

Koh Samui THAILAND

DAY 1 KOH SAMUI, THAILAND. Make your way to the hotel and kick off your journey with a cocktail and chill by the pool. Tonight, feast on a welcome dinner and get to know your island hopper buds. You’re in paradise – soak it up, make the most of it and prepare for the next few days of excitement. This is gonna be a trip to remember. (D) DAY 2 KOH SAMUI. Snorkel enthusiasts can feast on an optional full day tour as you splash your way around Angthong Marine Park. Made up of 42 islands, you can expect jungles, white sand beaches, beautiful waterfalls, limestone formations and secret coves. Aaaand breathe! Zoom around and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife both on land and in the mesmerising blue water. While you’re there, throw in a swim stop and get selfie-ing. Lunch is on the boat.

Because #paradise. (B) DAY 3 KOH SAMUI TO KOH PHANGAN. Take one last dip with the coral before we head north to the smaller (but no less epic) island of Koh Phangan.

This island is no stranger to a good time and some pretty awesome music. Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with the place and get your bearings through the town. Later, the evening is all yours to explore and find a hidden gem for dinner. Thai food for the win! (B) DAY 4 KOH PHANGAN. Free day = your day, your way.

If you tire of hanging out in a hammock sipping on fresh coconut water, head north on a long tail boat or make tracks to explore the quieter beaches. This island could keep you busy for hours on end. What are you waiting for? Go get some adventure! (B) DAY 5 KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO. On to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan’s baby, Koh Tao. If you’re not in the water soaking up the sun, sea and good vibes, there’s hiking, rock climbing and bouldering for the adventure seekers. Want to kick back and relax for the entire day? Head to Chalok Baan Khao Bay towards the south – perfect for lazing around. Once there, if the mood takes you, you can walk over to Freedom Beach, Buddha Rock Cape and Cape June

Juea. Wanna go for a hike? Make your way to Ao Plaay Laem Beach for some sweet snorkelling opportunities (yep, this part of the world isn’t short of them!). To round off the day, this area’s got the best sunset this side of the country. You’re welcome. (B)

DAY 6 KOH TAO. Diving here is like ticking off Mount Everest for climbers, so be sure to don your snorkel and join an optional diving group. Dip into the water for a swim. And another. Maybe one more? Ooh you lucky thang! Keep your eyes peeled for colourful coral, rays, sharks and so much more. Wanna do something else today? There’s plenty of jungle and beach to explore. This small island sure punches above its weight when it comes to activities. But make sure to return for tonight's farewell dinner where we say our goodbyes to the rest of the crew. We won’t blame you for getting emotional… (B,D) DAY 7 KOH TAO TO KOH SAMUI. The trip ends after we arrive back in Koh Samui. If you have some extra time, why not keep exploring? There’s enough beaches, snorkelling and hiking to keep you occupied for days (if not weeks). We’ll be seeing you around. (B) This is a section of the 14 Day Classic Thailand trip.

See p.33 or visit our website.

HOTEL

23

CLOCKWISE: KOH TAO, KOH SAMUI, KOH SAMUI

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Island stays on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Koh Tao ++ Welcome dinner in Koh Samui ++ Farewell dinner in Koh Tao

TRIP CODE: AHIEII S TA R T

FINISH

17

SEP

23

SEP

G

15

APR

21

APR

OCT

21

OCT

G

29

APR

5

MAY

29

OCT

4

NOV

G

13

MAY

19

MAY

12

NOV

18

NOV

G

27

MAY

2

JUN G, FM

24

JUN

30

JUN G, FM

8

JUL

14

JUL

27

JUL

2

AUG G, FM AUG

6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) 6 nights in hotel accommodation All ferries to Koh Tao, Koh Phangan & Koh Samui Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Angthong Marine Park day trip ++ Scuba diving in Koh Tao ++ Snorkelling in Koh Tao START MEET AT 2PM IN KOH SAMUI FINISH APPROXIMATELY 2.30PM IN KOH SAMUI

FINISH 2018/19

15

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

S TA R T

2017/18

12

AUG

18

23

SEP

29

SEP

21

OCT

27

OCT

TRIP PRICE OF $920

TRIP PRICE OF $949

TRIP PRICE OF $1020

TRIP PRICE OF $999

G

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $450

7 DAYS FROM

920

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 32 S P E $1 P E R R PE

7 DAY | BALI ISL AND HOPPER

HOTEL

24

SEMINYAK

SEMINYAK

9

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

CLOCKWISE: BALINESE DANCER, UBUD, GILI TRAWANGAN

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

your return. Just make sure it’s on the beach with that ocean air singing you to sleep. (B)

DAY STOP

Gili Trawangan

Ubud

DAY 5 GILI TRAWANGAN TO UBUD. Today we press on to Ubud after speedboating it to Padangbai port.

Culture/yoga/nature buff? You’ve come to the right place. The rest of the day is all yours. Visit Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), wander around Seniwati Gallery or get up close with the cheeky rascals at the Ubud Monkey Forest. (B)

2

START/FINISH

Seminyak BALI

DAY 4 GILI TRAWANGAN. Free day for the win! Yay! Want to meet the locals? Join the optional diving and snorkelling tour to casually bump into turtles, rays and reef sharks. It really is another world under water, so you’re in for a real treat whether you decide to dive or scuba. Tonight: stroll through the markets and feast your way through satay treats and fresh seafood for prices cheap as chips. (B)

1

DAY 6 UBUD. First up today, we’ve got a treat for your eyes: a performance of the famous Barong and Kris Dance. Then it’s on to the Tirta Empul hot springs before we hit Kintamani – where you’ll lunch with views over Bali’s largest lake. Next it’s down to the Kopi Luwak plantation, and on past Tegalalang’s rice fields and coconut trees. In the afternoon, venture through the Ubud market and meet for dinner in a local restaurant. It’s our last dinner together tonight, so make the most of the time with your travel pals before saying goodbye tomorrow. (B,L,D)

Lembongan Island

DAY 1 SEMINYAK TO LEMBONGAN ISLAND, INDONESIA. Meet the crew in Seminyak then get pumped to island hop your way around paradise.

Bond over local cuisine with an included welcome lunch. What a welcome! Later, the afternoon is yours for the taking. Explore the beach clubs and spend the afternoon entertaining yourself with water activities and beach volleyball. Banana boat ride anyone? (L) DAY 2 LEMBONGAN ISLAND TO GILI TRAWANGAN. We’re heading north to the biggest of the Gili archipelago trio: Gili Trawangan. Chill out or get

excited: three days in the snorkelling, diving and cultural mecca of the Gilis awaits us. Roam free, explore and enjoy! Talk about ultimate #islandvibes.

Get your Instagram ready, it’s gonna get filled up with sweet new snaps. And fast. (B)

DAY 3 GILI TRAWANGAN. Start your day by taking the optional hike to see Lombok from above with some incred panoramic views. Keep your cameras charged as we also check out the majestic Senaru waterfall.

This one is sure to take your breath away! We won’t blame you if you want a nap for the rest of the day on

DAY 7 UBUD TO SEMINYAK. Pack yo’ bags, and prepare to say goodbye. Before we go, you could always hop on an optional downhill mountain biking tour or do some whitewater rafting. An adrenalinefuelled day awaits (you know, standard last day type stuff). Time to start planning your next adventure? We reckon you’ll be back. Bali does that to people. (B)

HOTEL

25

CLOCKWISE: LAKE BATUR, UBUD, UBUD, GILI TRAWANGAN

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ Choice of water sports on Lembongan Island including Marine Walk, banana boat, snorkelling and water slide ++ Island stays on Bali, Lembongan & Gili Trawangan ++ Kintamani tour ++ Visit Lake Batur ++ Barong and Kris dance show ++ All entrance fees to included sights ++ Farewell dinner

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

6 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 1 dinner (D) 6 nights in hotel accommodation Awesome Trip Leader Guided tours of all major cities Modern air-conditioned vehicle & local speedboats between islands

TRIP CODE: AHIBSS S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2017/18

FINISH

14

JAN

20

JAN

1

OCT

7

OCT

G

21

JAN

27

JAN

15

OCT

21

OCT

G

28

JAN

3

FEB

29

OCT

4

NOV

G

4

FEB

10

FEB

12

NOV

18

NOV

G

11

FEB

17

FEB

26

NOV

2

DEC

G

18

FEB

24

FEB

10

DEC

16

DEC

G

25

FEB

3

MAR

24

DEC

30

DEC

G

4

MAR

10

MAR

31

DEC

6

JAN

G

18

MAR

24

MAR

7

JAN

13

JAN

G

25

MAR

31

MAR

TRIP PRICE OF $990 TRIP PRICE OF $1160 G= Guaranteed Departure

S TA R T G G G G G

1

APR

7

APR

15

APR

21

APR

22

APR

28

APR

6

MAY

12

MAY

20

MAY

26

MAY

3

JUN

9

JUN

10

JUN

16

JUN

17

JUN

23

JUN

24

JUN

30

JUN

1

JUL

7

JUL

8

JUL

14

JUL

22

JUL

28

JUL

29

JUL

4

AUG

12

AUG

18

AUG

26

AUG

1

SEP

9

SEP

15

SEP

16

SEP

22

SEP

23

SEP

29

SEP

START MEET AT 7AM IN SEMINYAK FINISH APPROXIMATELY 12PM IN SEMINYAK

S TA R T G G

FINISH

7

OCT

13

OCT

G

21

OCT

27

OCT

G

28

OCT

3

NOV G

4

NOV

10

NOV

18

NOV

24

NOV

G

25

NOV

1

DEC

G

9

DEC

15

DEC

16

DEC

22

DEC

G

23

DEC

29

DEC

30

DEC

5

JAN

G

6

JAN

12

JAN

G

20

JAN

26

JAN

G

27

JAN

2

FEB

10

FEB

16

FEB

17

FEB

23

FEB

G G G G

24

FEB

2

MAR

10

MAR

16

MAR

17

MAR

23

MAR

G G

G G G

G

TRIP PRICE OF $999

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Snorkelling in Gili Trawangan ++ Whitewater rafting ++ Kintamani mountain biking

FINISH 2018/19

TRIP PRICE OF $1199 G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $519

7 DAYS FROM

990

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 42 S P E $1 P E R R PE

12 D A Y | J A PA N H I G H L I G H T S

HOTEL

26

TOKYO

OSAKA

14

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

CLOCKWISE: TOKYO, JAPANESE MARKET, KYOTO, TOKYO

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

orientation tour upon arrival. Tonight stay in a ryokan – a traditional Japanese inn. All the authentic feels.

Finish off the day with an optional Hida beef foodie experience. (B)

DAY STOP

START

Takayama

2 Hiroshima Miyajima

1

Osaka FINISH

Tokyo JAPAN

Kyoto

1 1 Koyasan

DAY 1 TOKYO, JAPAN. Sushi trains, karaoke, gadgets, temples and cat cafés. Get excited, get very excited.

You’re in Tokyo. On our city tour, spot the Sensoji Temple, dance under its giant red lantern and wander along nearby 500-year-old Nakamise Street selling mochi (sticky rice cakes) and geta (wooden shoes).

Also, Shinjuku and Harajuku = amazing! Later, bond over a welcome dinner. Work that chopstick magic and feast on authentic goodies. It's gonna be an awesome 12 days! (D) DAY 2 TOKYO. Free day to hit the ground running in Tokyo. Head over to Odaiba, the man-made island

in Tokyo Bay or check out Akihabara, where stores scream for the attention of anime fans and gamers.

(B)

DAY 3 TOKYO. Today, why not take a visit to the happiest place on earth: Tokyo Disneyland (optional).

If you want something else, take the option to visit the Robot Restaurant – it’s legit. You’ll never look at restaurants back home the same again. (B) DAY 4 TOKYO TO TAKAYAMA. This morning we pack our bags and travel at 320km/h on the bullet train before heading up to the Japanese Alps. Cue a short

DAY 5 TAKAYAMA. Start off the day at the morning riverside markets. Then, make sure you get your walking shoes on as we embark on a half day city tour of Takayama. There’s also a sake brewery visit and an excursion to Hida No Sato folk village this afternoon.

(B) DAY 6 TAKAYAMA TO HIROSHIMA VIA MIYAJIMA. Jump on a ferry to Miyajima with its wild deer (aww!) and shrines galore. End your island jaunt watching the sunset behind the floating torii gate. (B) DAY 7 HIROSHIMA TO KOYASAN. First up, Hiroshima, where we explore the Peace Museum to pay respects to the victims of the atomic bombing. Later, make your way to Mount Kōya, one of the world’s most sacred mountains (with 117 temples atop it) and the headquarters of the Koyasan sect of Japanese Buddhism. Tonight, feast on a traditional Buddhist meal. (B,D) DAY 8 KOYASAN TO KYOTO. Start with a Buddhist prayer service, then explore the cobblestone walkway lined with Shinto torii gates to the Okunoin mausoleum and its 10,000 lantern Torodo Hall.

Later, it’s time for Kyoto. Japan’s traditional capital is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines. It’s also the prime manufacturing hub for kimonos – a good place to pick up some new threads. Later, we check out Fushimi Inari, the head shrine of Inari. Trust us, it’s beautiful. (B) DAY 9 KYOTO. Find your zen place at the Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion and Ryōan-ji Temple all before lunch.

Have you had your udon noodle fix yet? Note to self: essential. This afternoon you’re off to Nijo Castle to channel your inner samurai and visit the Heian Shrine – built to honour the anniversary of the capital’s foundation in Kyoto. (B)

HOTEL

27

CLOCKWISE: TONKATSU, MIYAJIMA, TOKYO

DAY 10 KYOTO. A free day to frolic. Get out of town and visit the lush Arashiyama bamboo forest, or go on a day trip to Nara. Cue deer roaming the streets.

Do the optional and dress up like a maiko or samurai later. (B) DAY 11 KYOTO TO OSAKA. Today, we set a course for Osaka. Mingle with locals and other travellers on the train over, then drop your bags and get exploring.

Tonight, get emotional over a farewell dinner. (B,D) DAY 12 OSAKA. After breakfast it’s sayonara to the Land of the Rising Sun. Swap numbers and plan that next adventure together. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Visit Hiroshima Peace Museum Traditional Buddhist prayer service Visit Harajuku Visit sake brewery Welcome & farewell dinner Stay in a ryokan Visit Itsukushima Shrine Visit Ryōan-ji Temple Explore Kyoto's Gion district

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 11 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D) ++ 8 nights in hotel accommodation, 2 nights in a ryokan, 1 night in a guesthouse ++ Small group ++ Awesome Trip Leader ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Japan Rail Pass

TRIP CODE: AHJJTR S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

FINISH

2017/18

2018/19

8

OCT

19

OCT

G

8

APR

19

22

OCT

2

NOV

G

15

APR

26

APR

5

NOV

16

NOV

G

13

MAY

24

MAY

19

NOV

30

NOV

G

20

MAY

31

MAY

3

DEC

14

DEC

G

27

MAY

7

JUN

17

DEC

28

DEC

G

10

JUN

21

JUN

7

JAN

18

JAN

G

24

JUN

5

JUL

21

JAN

1

FEB

G

1

JUL

12

JUL

G

22

JUL

2

AUG

5

AUG

16

AUG

APR

4

FEB

15

FEB

18

FEB

1

MAR

4

MAR

15

MAR

G

19

AUG

30

AUG

18

MAR

29

MAR

G

2

SEP

13

SEP

16

SEP

27

SEP

14

OCT

25

OCT

21

OCT

1

NOV

28

OCT

8

NOV

4

NOV

15

NOV

11

NOV

22

NOV

25

NOV

6

DEC

2

DEC

13

DEC

9

DEC

20

DEC

TOP OPTIONALS

6

JAN

17

JAN

20

JAN

31

JAN

++ Visit Tokyo Disneyland ++ Visit the Robot Restaurant

27

JAN

7

FEB

3

FEB

14

FEB

17

FEB

28

FEB

3

MAR

14

MAR

17

MAR

28

MAR

START MEET AT 8AM IN TOKYO FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN OSAKA Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $1149

12 DAYS FROM

4895

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

TRIP PRICE OF $4895

G G

G G G G G G

G G G G G

TRIP PRICE OF $4999

G= Guaranteed Departure

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 08 S P E $4 P E R R PE

12 D A Y | C H I N A L I V E

HOTEL

28

BEIJING

HONG KONG

21

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

CLOCKWISE: XIAN, BEIJING, GREAT WALL OF CHINA

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY STOP

Overnight train

1

1

Chengdu

2

START

Beijing CHINA

DAY 7 CHENGDU TO YANGSHUO. Say zài jiàn to Chengdu, today we’re flying to Yangshuo. Try and score a window seat if you can – you’ll wanna see the mountains. Cue hot new Instagram post. (B)

Longsheng

2

DAY 5 XIAN TO CHENGDU. Today we’re heading south to Chengdu. Flash your boarding pass and check in together – we’re flyin’! Later, feast on a hot pot dinner. Just what you want post-flight. (B,D) DAY 6 CHENGDU. Wake up and get ready, it’s exploring time. Pinch yourself, because today we roll with a visit to the Panda Conservation Centre.

Cue cuteness overload: these guys are adorable.

Show your love for the balls of fluff. Next up, a visit to Jinli Street. Part of the Temple of Marquis, you’ll get a taste of ancient Qing culture. Finish off with a teahouse visit in People’s Park. Another awesome day: check! (B,L)

Xian

2 1

DAY 4 XIAN. Jump off in Xian. You’re in the land of the Terracotta Warriors, and guess what – you’ll see them today! Get those legs moving with a bike ride around the city wall to roll in style. Duck off to lunch at the Terracotta Warriors. Later, visit the Muslim Quarter.

What. A. Day! (B,L)

Yangshuo

2

DAY 1 BEIJING, CHINA. Ni Hao! Welcome to China.

After checking in, tonight you’ll get acquainted with your trip peeps at the welcome dinner. Dig in and work that chopstick magic – be quick or miss out.

Soak up those incredible city vibes, it’s going to be a great trip. (D) DAY 2 BEIJING. After brekkie, start checking off your Beijing bucket list with a trip to the Great Wall of China – mega tick! Best part? The toboggan down – Google it and say ‘wow’. Next we’re off to the Sacred

FINISH

Hong Kong

Way and the biggest stone archway in China. How to make this day more epic? Hit up the optional Peking duck dinner on Ghost Street. Umm, yum! You had us at Peking. (B,L)

DAY 3 BEIJING TO XIAN VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. Today is gonna rock: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Seriously, unreal. Oh, and let us take care of all your meals too. Tonight we’re travelling to Xian by sleeper train.

(B,L,D)

DAY 8 YANGSHUO. On the activity menu today: an optional cooking class, rafting on the Yulong River or the Liu San Jie show with the river as the stage. (B) DAY 9 YANGSHUO TO LONGSHENG. After brekkie, pack your bags, we’re travelling to Longsheng – land of the rice terraces. Snap your heart out on the included day tour. Check out the Dragon’s Backbone and spot rice paddies for days. (B,L,D) DAY 10 LONGSHENG TO HONG KONG. Today, it’s Hong Kong time. Get those walking shoes on ready for a city tour as we hit up the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Clock Tower as well as Victoria Peak and lookout. Tonight, why not try some street food at the Temple Street night market? (B) DAY 11 HONG KONG. Today is all yours to explore before we reconvene in the evening for our final

HOTEL

29

CLOCKWISE: HONG KONG. STREET STALL, BEIJING, LONGSHENG

dinner together. Start swapping numbers and feast the night away. Cue hugs and sad faces. (B,D)

DAY 12 HONG KONG. Make sure you’ve added your new buddies on Facebook ‘cos the trip ends here. The question is, where to next? (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Great Wall of China (including toboggan ride) Visit Tiananmen Square Visit Sacred Way Visit the Forbidden City Visit the Terracotta Warriors Explore the Dragon's Backbone rice terraces Visit the world-famous teahouses in People's Park ++ Xian city wall bike ride ++ Visit the Panda Conservation Centre ++ Street eats dinner in Beijing

TRIP CODE: AHCLGK S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2017/18 16

OCT

27

OCT

G

13

MAY

24

MAY

13

NOV

24

NOV

G

17

JUN

28

JUN

G

10

DEC

21

DEC

11

MAR

22

MAR

8

APR

19

APR

TRIP PRICE OF $3990

G

15

JUL

26

JUL

19

AUG

30

AUG

16

SEP

27

SEP

14

OCT

25

OCT

7

APR

18

APR

G G G

TRIP PRICE OF $3999 TRIP PRICE OF $4129

MORE INCLUSIONS

G= Guaranteed Departure

++ 11 breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L), 5 dinners (D) ++ 10 nights in hotel accommodation, 1 night on an overnight train ++ Internal flights ++ Modern air-conditioned vehicle ++ Overnight train ticket ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader

Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $899

TOP OPTIONALS

FINISH 2018/19

12 DAYS FRO

3990

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

++ Peking duck dinner in Beijing ++ Rafting on the Yulong River START MEET AT 2PM IN BEIJING FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN HONG KONG PLEASE NOTE ITINERARY AND INCLUSIONS MAY BE DIFFERENT FOR 2017-18 TRIPS. PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 33 S P E $3 P E R R PE

13 D A Y | V I E T N A M U N C O V E R E D

HOTEL

30

HO CHI MINH CITY

HANOI

19

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

CLOCKWISE: HANOI, HALONG BAY, HANOI, HO CHI MINH CITY

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY STOP

FINISH

Hanoi

1 1

1

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

1 Hoi An

DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. Ho Chi Minh City is home to ten million people and four million motorbikes. Pretty cool huh? Tonight, prepare yourself for foodie heaven with the included street eats tour. Try the wonderful and the weird (if you’re feeling brave). There’s so much to get your teeth stuck into. Ready? Let’s go! (D) DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY. Make sure you’re wearing your explorer shoes today! Rise early for your Cu Chi Tunnels half day tour. These interesting tunnels were a strategic operation base during the Vietnam War, and there’s over 120km worth of them! Amazing.

Later this afternoon in HCMC, stroll to the Municipal Theatre, the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum on an included city tour. (B,L) DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY TO VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER. Hop on a boat to peruse Cai Be's floating markets that teem with fruit, vegetables and goodies.

Stop for lunch, then it’s on to an guesthouse where we rest up for the evening. (B,L,D)

Hue

2

DAY 4 VINH LONG TO NHA TRANG VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. Wake up to another morning in the land of pho and snake wine. Later, we arrive in Nha Trang.

Rest up at the white powdery beaches of Vietnam’s most popular seaside resort town, or search for markets. Either way you’re winning. (B)

Nha Trang

1

2

Overnight Train START

Ho Chi Minh City VIETNAM

2 1

Vinh Long

DAY 5 NHA TRANG. A day for either feeling the wind in your hair or chilling at the spa with our optional activities. Try out a full day boat trip. Or if you’d prefer some chilled vibes, take a tour at the Thap Ba Hot Spring Bathing and Mud Spa. Looks like you’ll be spoilt for choice. (B) DAY 6 NHA TRANG. Spend your free day lazing in Nha Trang, a kite-running, windsurfing and scuba diving mecca. Woo! (B) DAY 7 NHA TRANG TO HOI AN. Fly upwards to Hoi An – known for its spectrum of exciting architecture.

Expect French colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, Vietnamese tube houses and the Japanese Covered Bridge. (B)

HOTEL

31

CLOCKWISE: HALONG BAY, HALONG BAY, HOI AN

DAY 8 HOI AN. Day two in this cultural melting-pot.

Hop on an optional tour to a vegetable village just outside of Hoi An. Providing veggies for Hoi An and its nearby areas, this place is pretty special. If you wanna channel your inner masterchef, enrol on an optional cooking class conducted by a local chef. (B) DAY 9 HOI AN TO HUE. Drive along the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful mountain passes.

We end up in the former imperial capital, Hue. Take a guided tour of the Citadel, the Forbidden City and the Royal Tomb. What an introduction! (B) DAY 10 HUE TO HANOI. Fly up the coast as you take on the big capital city of Hanoi. (B) DAY 11 HANOI TO HALONG BAY. Cruise time. A day of paddling, swimming and lazing on the sundeck? Yes please. Return back just in time to watch the sunset from the top deck before tucking in to the bay’s freshest seafood for dinner. (B,L,D) DAY 12 HALONG BAY TO HANOI. Back in the capital today. But not before an optional scenic flight over Halong Bay in a seaplane. Um, how cool is that? (B,D) DAY 13 HANOI. Today, it’s breakfast then we’re outta here. Okay, maybe one last bowl of pho first. (B) This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip.

See p.36 or visit our website.

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Ho Chi Minh City street eats tour Cu Chi Tunnels tour Visit Cai Be floating markets Visit Hai Van Pass Party cruise in Halong Bay Visit to KOTO restaurant in Hanoi Farewell dinner

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 12 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 4 dinners (D) ++ 9 nights in hotel accommodation, 1 night in a guesthouse, 1 night on a party junk boat, 1 night on an overnight train ++ Internal flights ++ Overnight train ticket ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader + Local Guides

TRIP CODE: AHAFOH S TA R T

FINISH

9

OCT

20

OCT

G

6

MAY

18

MAY

OCT

3

NOV

G

20

MAY

1

JUN

G

6

NOV

17

NOV

G

3

JUN

15

JUN

G

20

NOV

1

DEC

G

17

JUN

29

JUN

G G

11

DEC

22

DEC

G

15

JUL

27

JUL

25

DEC

5

JAN

G

29

JUL

10

AUG

G

17

AUG

29

AUG

2

SEP

14

SEP

G

G

30

SEP

12

OCT

G

14

OCT

26

OCT

G

28

OCT

9

NOV

11

NOV

23

NOV

G

18

NOV

30

NOV

25

NOV

7

DEC

2

DEC

14

DEC DEC

8

JAN

19

JAN

22

JAN

2

FEB

5

FEB

16

FEB

19

FEB

2

MAR

5

MAR

16

MAR

19

MAR

30

MAR

2

APR

13

APR

++ Scenic flight over Halong Bay ++ Hoi An cooking class

PLEASE NOTE ITINERARY AND INCLUSIONS MAY BE DIFFERENT FOR 2017-18 TRIPS. PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS.

FINISH 2018/19

23

TOP OPTIONALS

START MEET AT 5PM IN HO CHI MINH CITY FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN HANOI

S TA R T

2017/18

TRIP PRICE OF $2620

16

DEC

28

30

DEC

11

JAN

20

JAN

1

FEB

10

FEB

22

FEB

G

G G

G

24

FEB

8

MAR

G

7

APR

19

APR

G

TRIP PRICE OF $2319

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $559

13 DAYS FROM

2319

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 94 S P E $1 P E R R PE

13 D A Y | M Y T H A I

HOTEL

32

BANGKOK

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

BANGKOK

16

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

DAY STOP

1

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

2 1

Overnight Train

2 START/FINISH

Bangkok THAILAND

2

2

Phuket

Krabi

2 Koh Phi Phi

CLOCKWISE: KOH PHI PHI, BANGKOK, CHIANG RAI

DAY 1 BANGKOK TO PHUKET, THAILAND. Oh my Thai!

It’s Bangkok time. Meet the group, but don’t get too comfortable, we’re soarin’ and flyin’ to Phuket today.

Settle in, then dive head first into a welcome dinner with the group. Yum! (D)

TRIP CODE: AHMTBB S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

FINISH

2017/18

2018/19

19

NOV

1

DEC

G

11

NOV

23

NOV

3

DEC

15

DEC

G

25

NOV

7

DEC

17

DEC

29

DEC

G

9

DEC

21

DEC

31

DEC

12

JAN

G

20

JAN

1

FEB

14

JAN

26

JAN

G

3

FEB

15

FEB

11

FEB

23

FEB

G

17

MAR

29

MAR

25

FEB

9

MAR

TRIP PRICE OF $2790

TRIP PRICE OF $2579

TRIP PRICE OF $3080

TRIP PRICE OF $2779

G

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $839

13 DAYS FROM

2579

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

This trip is a combination of the 7 Day Ko-Conut Hopper and 27 Day Asian Fusion. There may be a crew change during the trip. Passengers may also join or leave along the way.

DAY 2 PHUKET. Beach-a-holics and snorkel enthusiasts can head on an optional trip to Coral Island and Racha Island. Later, why not hit the streets and find a saucy pad thai or other local foodie treat to round off the day? (B) DAY 3 PHUKET TO KRABI. The Ao Thalane canyons and coves are calling for a kayaking sesh (optional). Grab your paddle (and coconut) then make waves. (B) DAY 4 KRABI. It’s all about Krabi today. Enjoy an optional full day tour by speedboat and feel that ocean breeze in your hair. (B) DAY 5 KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI. Check into insanely pretty Koh Phi Phi today. Cameras at the ready! (B) DAY 6 KOH PHI PHI. Today, take an optional speedboat excursion to Koh Yao Noi Island before returning for some chill out time. Make the most of your last day here, you’ll miss it when it’s gone. (B,D) DAY 7 KOH PHI PHI TO BANGKOK VIA PHUKET. Wave buh-bye to Koh Phi Phi and touch down into the bustle of Bangkok. Watch the city sparkle as you roam the streets. (B) DAY 8 BANGKOK. Explore like a Bangkokian (it’s a word) and get your culture fix today at your own pace. Later, watch the city sparkle as you zip through the streets on an included street eats tour. Mode of transport? Tuk tuk, duh! (B,D)

M RO YF D DA AU ON R 99 S P E $1 P E R R PE

DAY 9 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. More love for the capital today as we tick off the Bangkok bucket list. A half day city tour is on the cards.

Tonight, it’s all about the overnight train. Get comfy and catch some zzz’s. (B) DAY 10 CHIANG MAI. Another mode of transport to tick off. Jump in a trishaw for the included city tour and cruise through the awe-inspiring old town in style. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Welcome dinner Bangkok street eats tour via tuk tuk Guided tour of Chiang Mai via trishaw Guided tour of Bangkok Visit Wat Rong Khun & the Golden Triangle Visit Koh Phi Phi

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 12 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D) ++ 11 nights in hotel accommodation, 1 night on an overnight train ++ Internal flights ++ Overnight train ticket ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Modern air-conditioned vehicle ++ Awesome Trip Leader + Local Guides

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure ++ Kayaking at Ao Thalane START MEET AT 8AM IN BANGKOK FINISH APPROXIMATELY 12PM IN BANGKOK

DAY 11 CHIANG MAI. Free day alert! How about an optional cooking class? Learn from local legends then brag about your new-found skills later. For the adrenaline seekers, unleash your inner monkey with an optional Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure. (B) DAY 12 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. Be inspired by the best handful of temples on offer today. It’s all about the Wat Rong Khun ‘White Temple’ and the Golden Triangle.

Wow. (B,L) DAY 13 CHIANG RAI TO BANGKOK. Head south back into Bangkok and sadly we’re outta here today. Too soon for the next adventure? (B)

14 D A Y | C L A S S I C T H A I L A N D BANGKOK

YOUR ROUTE

16

MEALS

1 STOP & STAY

1

HOTEL

BANGKOK

33

COUNTRY

DAY STOP

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

1

2

1

Overnight Train

2 START/FINISH

Bangkok THAILAND

Chumphon

2 Overnight Train

1

Koh Tao

2

Koh Phangan

2

Koh Samui

CLOCKWISE: KOH TAO, BANGKOK

DAY 1 BANGKOK TO KOH SAMUI, THAILAND VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. Alright Bangkok, let’s do this.

See Bangkok sparkle for your first ‘wow’ moment.

Tonight: jump on an overnight sleeper train to Koh Samui. Settle in and catch some zzz’s.

DAY 2 KOH SAMUI. Rise and shine, we’re almost there.

Jump off in Surat Thani then ferry to Koh Samui. Check in, relax and get swimming, before a welcome dinner with your travel mates. (D) DAY 3 KOH SAMUI. Oh Koh Samui, you beautiful thing!

Today is free to make the most of those beach vibes.

For the snorkel fiends, jump on an optional half day trip to Coral Island or check out Angthong Marine Park by speedboat and kayak. Sweet. (B) DAY 4 KOH SAMUI TO KOH PHANGAN. You know that notorious island Koh Phangan, right? Today, we check in and see what it’s all about. (B) DAY 5 KOH PHANGAN. It’s all free time and fun-loving in paradise today. Soak it up and dip your toes in Hat Rin Nok Beach (Sunrise Beach) where coconut trees meet sandy white beach. Ah-maze! (B) DAY 6 KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO. Roll into snorkeland-scuba-diving-paradise, aka Koh Tao. (B) DAY 7 KOH TAO. Take your pick from today's optional activities. Flex your freedom and go scuba diving or take a snorkelling trip. FYI: we’re talking diving mecca right here, so don’t miss your chance. (B,D) DAY 8 KOH TAO TO BANGKOK. High five Bangkok and shake hands with the buzzing capital. (B) DAY 9 BANGKOK. Tonight: sink your teeth into the best street food that this city has to offer. We’ve got a tuk tuk street eats tour lined up. (B,D) DAY 10 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. How about those Bangkok sights? It’s a half day city tour – so get the cameras ready and start Instasnapping. Tonight: overnight train take two. (B) DAY 11 CHIANG MAI. Open your eyes – you’ve arrived in Chiang Mai. Today you’re rollin’ in style by trishaw around the city. On the menu for tonight? An optional Khantoke Village cultural show and dinner. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++

Guided tour of Bangkok Bangkok street eats tour via tuk tuk Guided tour of Chiang Mai via trishaw Visit the Thai Islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Koh Tao ++ Visit Wat Rong Khun & the Golden Triangle

TRIP CODE: AHCTBB S TA R T

FINISH

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure ++ Coral Island tour at Koh Taen START MEET AT 2PM IN BANGKOK FINISH APPROXIMATELY 12PM IN BANGKOK

DAY 12 CHIANG MAI. Today, it’s all you. Hot foot it around the city at your own pace. More of an adrenaline junkie type? Daredevils can make like a monkey with an optional Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure. And for the foodies? An optional cooking class awaits. (B) DAY 13 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. It’s temple time.

Today it’s all about Wat Rong Khun (the 'White Temple') and the Golden Triangle. Get the camera ready for THAT shot. (B,L) DAY 14 CHIANG RAI TO BANGKOK. Tap out of Chiang Rai and fly into Bangkok. Swap numbers, because we’re outta here today. Aww! (B)

FINISH 2018/19

14

OCT

27

OCT

G

14

APR

27

APR

28

OCT

10

NOV

G

28

APR

11

MAY

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 12 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D) ++ 11 nights in hotel accommodation, 2 nights on an overnight train ++ Internal flights ++ Overnight train ticket ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Modern air-conditioned vehicle ++ Awesome Trip Leader + Local Guides

S TA R T

2017/18

12

MAY

25

MAY

26

MAY

8

JUN G, FM

23

JUN

6

JUL

7

JUL

20

JUL

G, FM

26

JUL

8

AUG G, FM

11

AUG

24

AUG

22

SEP

5

OCT

20

OCT

2

NOV

TRIP PRICE OF $2350

TRIP PRICE OF $2219

TRIP PRICE OF $2380

TRIP PRICE OF $2299

G

G= Guaranteed Departure FM= Full Moon Party Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $690

14 DAYS FROM

2219

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

This trip is a combination of the 7 Day Samui Sunsets and 27 Day Asian Fusion. There may be a crew change during the trip. Passengers may also join or leave along the way.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 59 S P E $1 P E R R PE

15/ 16 D A Y | R O A D T O P H N O M P E N H

HOTEL

34

BANGKOK

PHNOM PENH

20

MEALS

3

COUNTRIES

CLOCKWISE: BANGKOK, SIEM REAP, BANGKOK STREET FOOD

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

Temple’) and the Golden Triangle. Get the camera ready for THAT shot. Then, we’re off to Chiang Rai to rest our heads. (B,L)

DAY STOP

Luang Prabang

Pakbeng LAOS

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

1

1

2 2 Vang Vieng

2

1

DAY 6 CHIANG RAI TO PAKBENG, LAOS. Cross the Friendship Bridge then climb on board and get cruise-y along the Mekong River. We visit a riverside village along the way to get a feel for the local life.

(B,L,D) DAY 7 PAKBENG TO LUANG PRABANG. This morning we’re back on the Mekong cruisin’ with a quick stop at the local markets. Stop for a tipple at the whiskey village, because, well, why not. Then pass the Pak Ou Caves and arrive in Luang Prabang later in the day.

(B,L)

Overnight Train

DAY 8 LUANG PRABANG. Rise and shine! Today, travel in style on two wheels and check out the city by bike on an optional tour. See the Kuang Si Waterfall for an optional dose of wow. This multi-tiered waterfall is pretty beautiful if we do say so ourselves.

(B)

1 START

Bangkok

Siem Reap CAMBODIA

DAY 9 LUANG PRABANG TO VANG VIENG. Wake up to the sound of the temple gong, partake in the daily almsgiving of the monks, and descend southwards to Vang Vieng. (B)

2

THAILAND

2

Phnom Penh FINISH

DAY 10 VANG VIENG. A free day for optional kayaking on the Nam Song River. If you’re here in wet season: rapids. Rock climbing and cave exploring could also be options. (B)

there’s time to wander around today. On the menu for tonight? An optional Khantoke Village cultural show and dinner. (B)

DAY 11 VANG VIENG TO SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA VIA LUANG PRABANG. Farewell Vang Vieng, we fly to Siem Reap today. Passports at the ready! (B)

DAY 2 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. More love for the capital today as we tick off the Bangkok bucket list. A half day city tour is on the cards. Tonight, it’s all about the overnight train. Get comfy and catch some zzz’s. (B)

DAY 4 CHIANG MAI. Today, it’s all you. Hot foot it around the city at your own pace. More of an adrenaline junkie type? Daredevils can make like a monkey with an optional Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure. And for the foodies? An optional cooking class awaits. (B)

DAY 12 SIEM REAP. Cue a stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by a guided tour of the Bayon temple and Ta Prohm. (B)

DAY 3 CHIANG MAI. Open your eyes – you’ve arrived in Chiang Mai. Get your explorer shoes on, because

DAY 5 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. It’s temple time. Today it’s all about Wat Rong Khun (‘the White

DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND. Arrive in Bangkok for a street eats tour tonight. We’re gonna be travelling in style: by tuk tuk of course! Talk about a welcome dinner for the books. (D)

DAY 13 SIEM REAP TO PHNOM PENH. Today we kick it to Phnom Penh. See ya Siem Reap, it’s been real. (B) DAY 14 PHNOM PENH. A free day today. Take an optional visit to the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields to

HOTEL

35

CLOCKWISE: SIEM REAP, PHNOM PENH, SIEM REAP, CHIANG MAI

reflect and pay your respects. Spend your final evening together with the crew with a farewell street eats dinner. (B,D)

DAY 15 PHNOM PENH. We’re outta here after brekkie.

Time for the next adventure? (B) This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip.

See p.36 or visit our website.

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Bangkok street eats tour via tuk tuk Visit Wat Rong Khun & the Golden Triangle Mekong River boat cruise Visit Pak Ou Caves Visit Angkor Wat at sunrise Guided tour of Bangkok Almsgiving ceremony in Luang Prabang

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 14 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D) ++ 13 nights in hotel accommodation, 1 night on an overnight train ++ Internal flights ++ Overnight train ticket ++ Awesome Trip Leader + Local Guides ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Modern air-conditioned vehicle

TRIP CODE: AHAFBP S TA R T

FINISH

8

OCT

23

OCT

G

22

APR

6

MAY

OCT

6

NOV

G

6

MAY

20

MAY

G

5

NOV

20

NOV

G

20

MAY

3

JUN

G

26

NOV

11

DEC

G

3

JUN

17

JUN

G

10

DEC

25

DEC

G

1

JUL

15

JUL

G

24

DEC

8

JAN

G

15

JUL

29

JUL

3

AUG

17

AUG

G

G

19

AUG

2

SEP

G

16

SEP

30

SEP

G

G

30

SEP

14

OCT

14

OCT

28

OCT

G

28

OCT

11

NOV

4

NOV

18

NOV

7

JAN

22

JAN

21

JAN

5

FEB

4

FEB

19

FEB

18

FEB

5

MAR

4

MAR

19

MAR

18

MAR

2

APR

TOP OPTIONALS

PLEASE NOTE ITINERARY AND INCLUSIONS MAY BE DIFFERENT FOR 2017-18 TRIPS. PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS.

FINISH

2018/19 - 15 DAYS

22

++ Kayaking in Vang Vieng ++ Cooking class in Chiang Mai START MEET AT 2PM IN BANGKOK FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN PHNOM PENH

S TA R T

2017/18 - 16 DAYS

TRIP PRICE OF $3125

11

NOV

25

NOV

18

NOV

2

DEC

G G

2

DEC

16

DEC

16

DEC

30

DEC

6

JAN

20

JAN

27

JAN

10

FEB

10

FEB

24

FEB

G

24

MAR

7

APR

G

G

TRIP PRICE OF $3329

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $669

16 DAYS FROM

3125

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 96 S P E $1 P E R R PE

27 D A Y | A S I A N F U S I O N

HOTEL

36

BANGKOK

39

HANOI

MEALS

4

COUNTRIES

CLOCKWISE: HANOI, CHIANG RAI, CHIANG MAI, SIEM REAP

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY 7 PAKBENG TO LUANG PRABANG. This morning we’re back on the Mekong cruisin’ with a quick stop at the local market. Stop by the whiskey village and pass the Pak Ou Caves to arrive in Luang Prabang. (B,L)

DAY STOP FINISH

Pakbeng LAOS

1

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

1

1 1

1

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

2

Overnight Train

1 Hoi An

1 START

Bangkok

Siem Reap CAMBODIA

DAY 10 VANG VIENG. A free day for optional kayaking on the Nam Song River. Depending on the time of year, you could hit the rapids or do a spot of rock climbing and cave exploring. (B)

Hue

2

DAY 11 VANG VIENG TO SIEM REAP VIA LUANG PRABANG, CAMBODIA. Farewell Vang Vieng, we fly to Siem Reap today. Passports at the ready! (B)

2 Nha Trang

THAILAND

Phnom Penh

2

2 2

1

Overnight Train

Ho Chi Minh City VIETNAM

1

DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND. Arrive in Bangkok for a street eats tour tonight. We’re gonna be travelling in style: by tuk tuk of course! (D) DAY 2 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI VIA OVERNIGHT TRAIN. Free time to explore Bangkok this morning before we head to Chiang Mai. (B) DAY 3 CHIANG MAI. Get your explorer shoes on, because there’s time to wander around today. An optional Khantoke Village cultural show and dinner awaits tonight. (B)

DAY 8 LUANG PRABANG. Rise and shine! Check out the city by bike (optional) or see the Kuang Si Waterfall for an optional dose of wow. (B) DAY 9 LUANG PRABANG TO VANG VIENG. Rise to the sound of the temple gong and partake in the daily almsgiving of the monks. Next, descend southwards to Vang Vieng. (B)

2 Vang Vieng

2

1

Hanoi

Luang Prabang

Vinh Long, Mekong River

DAY 4 CHIANG MAI. Today is all yours to take on Chiang Mai. Make like a monkey and join the optional Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure or flex your cooking skills with an optional class. (B)

DAY 12 SIEM REAP. Cue a stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by a guided tour of the Bayon temple and Ta Prohm. (B) DAY 13 SIEM REAP TO PHNOM PENH. Today we kick it to Phnom Penh. See ya Siem Reap, it’s been real. (B) DAY 14 PHNOM PENH. An optional visit to the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields. Later, enjoy a street eats dinner.

(B,D) DAY 15 PHNOM PENH TO HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. Arrive in HCMC, home to ten million people and four million motorbikes. Kick off the night with an included street eats tour. (B,D)

DAY 5 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. Visit Wat Rong Khun (the ‘White Temple’) and view the Golden Triangle from above, then onwards to Chiang Rai.

DAY 16 HO CHI MINH CITY. Today, get your bearings on a Ho Chi Minh City tour. Check off the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Saigon River and the Reunification Palace. (B,L)

DAY 6 CHIANG RAI TO PAKBENG, LAOS. Cross the Friendship Bridge then board a Mekong River cruise.

DAY 17 HO CHI MINH CITY TO VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER. Hop on a boat to peruse Cai Be's floating markets that teem with fruit, vegetables and goodies.

(B,L)

(B,L,D)

HOTEL

37

CLOCKWISE: CAMBODIA, HALONG BAY

Stop for lunch, then it’s on to an guesthouse where we rest up for the evening. (B,L,D)

DAY 18 VINH LONG TO NHA TRANG VIA HO CHI MINH CITY. Wake up to another morning in the land of pho and snake wine. Later, we arrive in Nha Trang. Touch down and rest up at the white powdery beaches, or search for markets. (B) DAY 19 NHA TRANG. A day for either feeling the wind in your hair or chilling at the spa with our optional activities. You’ll be spoilt for choice. (B) DAY 20 NHA TRANG. Spend your free day lazing in Nha Trang, a kite-running, windsurfing and scuba diving mecca. Woo! (B) DAY 21 NHA TRANG TO HOI AN. Fly to Hoi An’s wellpreserved ancient town and start Snapchatting ASAP.

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Bangkok street eats tour via tuk tuk Visit Wat Rong Khun & the Golden Triangle Mekong River boat cruise Visit Pak Ou Caves Cu Chi Tunnels tour Visit Hai Van pass Visit Angkor Wat at sunrise Visit to KOTO restaurant in Hanoi Guided tour of Bangkok Almsgiving ceremony in Luang Prabang

MORE INCLUSIONS

DAY 23 HOI AN TO HUE. Drive along Hai Van Pass to Hue. Take a guided tour of the Citadel, the Forbidden City and the Royal Tomb. What an introduction! (B)

++ 26 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D) ++ 23 nights in hotel accommodation, 1 night on an overnight train, 1 night in a guesthouse, 1 night on a party junk boat ++ Internal flights ++ Overnight train ticket ++ Awesome Trip Leader + Local Guides ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Modern air-conditioned vehicle

DAY 24 HUE TO HANOI. Fly up the coast as you take on the big capital city of Hanoi. (B)

TOP OPTIONALS

(B)

DAY 22 HOI AN. Hop on an optional tour to a vegetable village just outside of Hoi An, or if you wanna channel your inner masterchef, enrol on an optional cooking class. (B)

DAY 25 HANOI TO HALONG BAY. Cruise time. A day of paddling, swimming, lazing on the sundeck and the bay’s seafood for dinner? Yes please. (B,L,D) DAY 26 HALONG BAY TO HANOI. Back in the capital today. But not before an optional scenic flight over Halong Bay in a seaplane. Um, how cool is that? (B,D) DAY 27 HANOI. Today, it’s breakfast then we’re outta here. Okay, maybe one last bowl of pho first. (B)

++ Scenic flight in Halong Bay ++ Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure ++ Khantoke Village cultural show & traditional dinner START MEET AT 2PM IN BANGKOK FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN HANOI PLEASE NOTE ITINERARY AND INCLUSIONS MAY BE DIFFERENT FOR 2017-18 TRIPS. PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS.

TRIP CODE: AHAFBH S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

2017/18

FINISH 2018/19

8

OCT

3

NOV

G

22

APR

18

MAY

22

OCT

17

NOV

G

6

MAY

1

JUN

G

5

NOV

1

DEC

G

20

MAY

15

JUN

G

26

NOV

22

DEC

G

3

JUN

29

JUN

G G

10

DEC

5

JAN

G

1

JUL

27

JUL

24

DEC

19

JAN

G

15

JUL

10

AUG

3

AUG

29

AUG

G

G

19

AUG

14

SEP

G

16

SEP

12

OCT

G

G

30

SEP

26

OCT

14

OCT

9

NOV

G

28

OCT

23

NOV

4

NOV

30

NOV

7

JAN

2

FEB

21

JAN

16

FEB

4

FEB

2

MAR

18

FEB

16

MAR

4

MAR

30

MAR

18

MAR

13

APR

TRIP PRICE OF $5750

11

NOV

7

DEC

18

NOV

14

DEC DEC

2

DEC

28

16

DEC

11

JAN

6

JAN

1

FEB

27

JAN

22

FEB

G G

G

10

FEB

8

MAR

G

24

MAR

19

APR

G

TRIP PRICE OF $5539

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person twin-share/double Single supplement from an extra $1299

27 DAYS FROM

5539

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 06 S P E $2 P E R R PE

HOSTEL PLUS

HOSTEL PLUS

38

Get the most out of your Topdeck trip without breaking the bank. Enjoy modern, multi-share accommodation with like-minded explorers, plus plenty of hotel upgrades to boot. Our most social trip style, Hostel Plus is perfect for fun-seeking travellers

HA LONG BAY

who are looking for a taste of adventure.

ACCOMMODATION

HOSTELS/CABINS/3-STAR HOTEL UPGRADES

TRIP LENGTH 7-8 DAYS

ROOM TYPES

TWIN-SHARE/DOUBLE/MULTI-SHARE

HOSTEL PLUS

39

DAYS | TRIP NAME

PAGE

7 DAY | JAPANESE EXPRESS

40

8 DAY | VIETNAMESE VOYAGE

42

7 D A Y | J A PA N E X P R E S S

HOSTEL PLUS

40

TOKYO

OSAKA

8

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

CLOCKWISE: KYOTO, GEISHA, HAKONE

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

patchwork of districts that makes up Tokyo’s eccentric cityscape. Check out Akihabara, where stores scream for the attention of anime fans and gamers or alternatively, for a taste of tradition, visit the Imperial Palace and its surrounding gardens. Or, you could always check out the Tsukiji fish market and fill up on ramen. Yum! Take the option to visit the Robot Restaurant – it’s legit. (B)

DAY STOP

START

Tokyo JAPAN Kyoto 2 Hakone/Mount Fuji

1 Osaka FINISH

DAY 1 TOKYO, JAPAN. Sushi trains, karaoke, gadgets, temples and cat cafés. Get excited, get very excited.

You’re in Tokyo. Meet the group and dive head first into a full day city tour. Spot the Sensoji Temple, dance under its giant red lantern and wander along the nearby 500-year-old Nakamise Street selling mochi (sticky rice cakes) and geta (wooden shoes).

Also, Shinjuku and Harajuku = amazing! Tonight we bond over a welcome dinner. Work that chopstick magic and feast on authentic goodies! (D) DAY 2 TOKYO INCLUDING HAKONE VISIT. Konichiwa Hakone! Today we swap the hustle and

bustle of Tokyo for the serene and natural beauty of Hakone. This place boasts breathtaking views across Lake Ashinoko and spectacular backdrops of the sacred Mount Fuji. It’s not hard to see why Fuji is worshipped by the Japanese and all who visit it, inspiring countless poets and artists since the 13th century. Before the day is up, visit the Hakone Shrine and the famous red torii (gate) overlooking Lake Ashi.

(B)

DAY 3 TOKYO. Rise and shine, fuel up and get ready to explore. Today is a free day in Tokyo. Wander the futuristic neon-lit streets and hop across the unique

DAY 4 TOKYO TO KYOTO. This morning we pack our bags and travel at 320km/h on the bullet train before arriving in the futuristic station of Kyoto.

Japan’s traditional capital, Kyoto is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines. It’s also the prime manufacturing hub for kimonos – a good place to pick up some new threads. Later, do the optional and dress up like a maiko, or catch up on your Japanese beer education in an izakaya. (B) DAY 5 KYOTO. Wake up and get ready, it’s time to explore on a guided tour of the city. We’ll also get the chance to spot a geisha or two in the Gion district.

After lunch, you’re free to frolic. Get out of town and visit the sprawling Arashiyama bamboo forest or find your zen place at the Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion and Ryōan-ji Temple. Need a break in between the sightseeing? Be sure to sip on matcha in one of the many time-worn tearooms, or try the famed kaiseki cuisine. (B) DAY 6 KYOTO TO OSAKA. Today we arrive in Osaka.

Famed for its food, Osaka has rightfully earned the reputation of the 'Nation's Kitchen' so make sure to eat your way across the super cool Dotonbori area.

If you're not too full, visit Hozenji Yokocho for more restaurants and bars. When the sun goes down, the city comes alive. Prepare yourself to spend our last night together over a farewell dinner. (B,D) DAY 7 OSAKA. After breakfast it’s sayonara to the Land of the Rising Sun. Swap numbers and plan that next adventure together – it’s never too soon. (B)

HOSTEL PLUS

41

CLOCKWISE: MOUNT FUJI, KYOTO, TOYKO, SUSHI

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Trip to Hakone Visit Shibuya Crossing Kyoto city tour Visit Harajuku Visit Akihabara Visit the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa Welcome & farewell dinner

TRIP CODE: AEJETR S TA R T

FINISH

S TA R T

FINISH

8 6

APR MAY

2018 14 APR 12 MAY

20

MAY

26

MAY

8

JUL

14

JUL

5

AUG

11

AUG

6

JAN

12

JAN

2

SEP

8

SEP

10

FEB

16

FEB

7

OCT

13

OCT

10

MAR

16

MAR

21

OCT

27

OCT

11

NOV

17

NOV

25

NOV

1

DEC

9

DEC

15

DEC

16

DEC

22

DEC

2019

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D) 6 nights in hostel or hotel accommodation Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Local Trip Leader Japan Rail Pass

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Visit the Robot Restaurant ++ Dress as a maiko or samurai START MEET AT 8AM IN TOKYO FINISH APPROXIMATELY 9AM IN OSAKA

TRIP PRICE OF $2089 Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

7 DAYS FROM

2089

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip.

Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 99 S P E $2 P E R R PE

8 D A Y | V I E T N A M E S E V O YA G E

HOSTEL PLUS

42

HO CHI MINH CITY

HANOI

11

MEALS

1

COUNTRY

CLOCKWISE: VIETNAM, HALONG BAY, HO CHI MINH CITY, HO CHI MINH CITY

YOUR ROUTE

1 STOP & STAY

DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. You’re in Vietnam – get excited! Enter chaos and culture as you meet the group in Ho Chi Minh City. Dive head first with an included half day sightseeing tour. Up next, a welcome dinner street food tour. Talk about an awesome start to the trip! (D)

DAY STOP

FINISH

Hanoi

2

1

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

2

Hoi An

DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY. Free day today! Rise and shine for an optional visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

These interesting tunnels were a strategic operation base during the Vietnam War, and there’s over 120km worth of them! Amazing. Have you slurped some pho, aka steaming broth and slinky rice noodles? By the end of the trip, cravings will be pho-real so make sure you get your fix whilst you’re here. Tonight: the city is all yours as you wander free. Let loose and find a rooftop bar to sit high with the tangled power lines (you'll soon see!). (B) DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY TO HOI AN. Pack yo’ bags as we fly upwards to the food capital of Vietnam. Give it ten minutes, and we promise you’ll be hooked on Hoi An. Make tracks through the city with a guided tour. On the menu tonight: an optional street eats tour. If you think you’ve eaten it all, nah-ah not even close. Chopsticks at the ready for some serious foodie heaven. (B) DAY 4 HOI AN. Free day = awesome-ness!

FYI: UNESCO World Heritage site alert. Stroll over the Japanese Covered Bridge or visit the Cam Nam Village – just a short boat, skip and a jump away. If you need to squeeze in some tanning time, go for it. This is a coastal town, remember? Later, flex your culinary skills and learn the A to Z of Vietnamese cooking with an optional class. (B)

START

Ho Chi Minh City VIETNAM

2

DAY 5 HOI AN TO HANOI. Enter Hanoi. Take it all in – the pagodas, the traces of French-Chinese occupation and scooters x1000. Pay tribute to the resting place of Ho Chi Minh (the Vietnamese Communist revolutionary leader) with an included cyclo ride. Spot the One Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of Literature as you weave through the Old Quarter. Tonight’s dinner

HOSTEL PLUS

43

CLOCKWISE: HOI AN, HALONG BAY, VIETNAMESE DISH

is at KOTO, a restaurant providing training and skills to teens. (B,D)

DAY 6 HANOI. Rumble through the capital today. Free day to tick off the Dong Xuan market and wander the streets for some hidden gems. Tonight: another optional walking nom-fest aka street eats tour. We may or may not be slightly obsessed. But seriously, how could you resist when the food is so good? (B) DAY 7 HANOI TO HALONG BAY. Leave the mainland for dust and kick over to Halong Bay. Admire the masses of limestone pillars poking from the emerald water as you float past on a traditional junk boat.

Ah-maz-ing! Your mission today? Chill. And swim. And more chill time. Maybe a quick kayak sesh if you’re feeling up to it. Work up an appetite for our farewell dinner on board the boat this evening. Nothing like a gorgeous dinner and sunset to end the trip hey?

(B,L,D) DAY 8 HALONG BAY TO HANOI. Jump in the water for one last post-brekkie swim before we head back to Hanoi. (B)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED) ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Cyclo tour of Hanoi Guided tour of Hoi An Guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City Overnight party cruise Welcome street food tour Visit to KOTO restaurant in Hanoi Farewell dinner in Halong Bay

TRIP CODE: AHVVOH S TA R T

FINISH

TOP OPTIONALS ++ Traditional cooking class ++ Cu Chi Tunnels tour START MEET AT 1PM IN HO CHI MINH CITY FINISH APPROXIMATELY 4PM IN HANOI

FINISH 2018/19

5

NOV

12

NOV

G

13

MAY

20

MAY

17

DEC

24

DEC

G

10

JUN

17

JUN

7

JAN

14

JAN

15

JUL

22

JUL

12

AUG

19

AUG

9

SEP

16

SEP

14

OCT

21

OCT

9

DEC

16

DEC

13

JAN

20

JAN

10

MAR

17

MAR

4

FEB

11

FEB

25

FEB

4

MAR

25

MAR

1

APR

MORE INCLUSIONS ++ 7 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D) ++ 6 nights hostel & hotel accommodation, 1 night on a party junk boat ++ Internal flights ++ Guided tours of all major cities ++ Awesome Trip Leader

S TA R T

2017/18

TRIP PRICE OF $1195

G G

G G G G

TRIP PRICE OF $1379

G= Guaranteed Departure Price based on Per Person multi-share: usually 2-6 per room

8 DAYS FROM

1195

$

AUD PER PERSON All items listed within the ‘Bucket List’ and ‘More Inclusions’ are included within the price of your trip. Other activities mentioned are optional (and so may cost extra) but too awesome to miss out.

M RO Y F UD N A D A O R 50 S P E $1 P E R R PE

44

STAY & PLAY PRE & POST ACCOMMODATION. ARRIVE EARLY. STAY LATE. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE RATES FOR YOUR TRIP

BANGKOK

TOKYO

S E M I N YA K

FOR THE BEST DEAL ON FLIGHTS CONTACT US OR YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT.

FOR MORE INFOMATION VISIT WWW.TOPDECK.TRAVEL/FLIGHTS

connect

The Topdeck App With its easy-breezy functionality, comprehensive travel tools and social media prowess, this little gem will be your new fave travel pal.

Because, unnecessary apps? Ain’t nobody got time for that.

WWW.TOPDECK.TRAVEL/APP

Get Social

/TOPDECKTRAVEL

TOPDECKTRAVEL

/TOPDECKTRAVEL

TOPDECK.TRAVEL

TOPDECKTRAVEL

Sometimes you just need a bit of space to breathe and reboot. We totally get it. Which is why these nifty little breaks offer the independent traveller the perfect amount of time to experience some of the world’s most iconic destinations. Be warned! The included excursions are not exclusive to Topdeck and you could be sitting next to an #oldie! #omg.

3/4 D A Y | B A N G K O K S T O P O V E R

TRIP CODE: 3 DAY ABBSBB

3/4 DAY | SINGAPORE STOPOVER

TRIP CODE: 3 DAY ABSSSS

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)

++ Bangkok street eats tour via tuk tuk (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sundays only)

++ Taste of Chinatown street eats tour

MORE INCLUSIONS

MORE INCLUSIONS

++ 2 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D) ++ 2 nights in hotel accommodation ++ Return airport transfers

++ 2 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D) ++ 2 nights in hotel accommodation ++ Return airport transfers T WIN FROM

$

239

AUD per person

SINGLE FROM

439

$

AUD per person

TRIP CODE: 4 DAY ABBLBB

T WIN FROM

469

$

AUD per person

SINGLE FROM

819

$

TRIP CODE: 4 DAY ABSLSS

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)

ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)

++ Full day city highlights tour of Bangkok ++ Bangkok street eats tour via tuk tuk (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sundays only)

++ Half day city highlights tour of Singapore ++ Taste of Chinatown street eats tour

MORE INCLUSIONS

MORE INCLUSIONS

++ 3 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D) ++ 3 nights in hotel accommodation ++ Return airport transfers

++ 3 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 1 dinner (D) ++ 3 nights in hotel accommodation ++ Return airport transfers T WIN FROM

$

539

AUD per person

AUD per person

SINGLE FROM

839

$

AUD per person

T WIN FROM

$

699

AUD per person

SINGLE FROM

1179

$

AUD per person

CIT Y ESCAPES

SHORT BREAKS

45

BOOKING CONDITIONS

TERMS & CONDITIONS

46

Topdeck's Details

Top Deck Tours Pty Ltd, ABN 30 107 934, 199 Grey Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Australia

Locally Operated Trips

All trips are operated by Buffalo Touring as the local operator.

Early Bird

Friends

Book and pay in full by 15/01/18

10% off with promo code ASIA18EB10%. Valid for trips departing 01 April 2018 to 31 March 2019.

4-6 together

5% off

7-9 together

7.5% off

10+ together

10% off

All passengers must be booked on the same trip/departure, prior to the departure date of the trip to qualify.

Discounts Multi-trip

2 trip multi

5% off cheapest trip

3 trip multi

7.5% off cheapest and 5% off second cheapest

4+ multi

10% off cheapest, 7.5% off second cheapest and 5% off third and additional trips

All passengers must be booked prior to the departure date of the first trip to qualify for discount. Discount applies to additional trips booked & is applied to the trip with the lowest trip value.

Past passenger

5% off - we will need to be able to verify that you have previously been on one of our trips.

All discounts apply to the trip price only and do not apply to any flights, visitor taxes, short breaks, stopovers, pre & post accommodation or transfers. Only two applicable and valid discounts can be combined to a maximum discount of 10% off the trip price.

Deposit

$100 per person, payable at the time of booking, for all stop overs and short breaks. $200 per person, payable at the time of booking, for all other trips.

Rolling Deposit

If you cancel your trip more than six weeks before the departure date you may request in writing at the time of cancellation that we provide you with a rolling deposit voucher for use against a future trip. The value and currency of the rolling deposit will be the value and currency of the original deposit paid. The rolling deposit cannot be redeemed by re-booking the same trip for the same departure date originally booked. The voucher must be redeemed within two years from the date of first cancellation. The rolling deposit can be transferred to a friend but cannot be transferred a second time. The passenger must be between 18 to 39 years old to travel. Only one voucher per person per trip is permitted. If redeeming against a trip with a higher deposit the balance will be payable at the time of booking. Rolling deposits cannot be redeemed or refunded for cash.

If you cancel your trip within six weeks or less of the departure date you will forfeit your deposit and you will need to pay our applicable cancellation fee. Rolling deposit vouchers are not available for cancellations within six weeks of the departure date.

Change and Cancellation Fee (% of trip price)

Days before departure

Nil (changes)

Over 42 Change and Cancellation Fees

Deposit (cancellations)

Pre/post accommodation

Transfers Nil

Nil

42-29

40%

40%

Nil

28-14

60%

60%

Nil

13-7

80%

100%

100%

6-3

90%

100%

100%

2-0

100%

100%

100%

Flight Change and Cancellation Fee

Any airline charges + fare & tax difference (which could be up to the full value of the ticket)

Governing law and jurisdiction

These booking conditions are governed by the laws of Queensland, Australia. Any dispute in relation to these booking conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Queensland.

Brochure Validity Date

Prices quoted in our brochures are calculated on costs and exchange rates at 1 June 2017

Your contract will be with the local operator specified above and will be subject to that operator's terms and conditions, in addition to the booking conditions set out below. For any Locally Operated Trip, the operator will be identified on your itinerary or travel documents and their respective terms and conditions will be available directly on their websites or by contacting them. Should we book a flight on your behalf it will be subject to the conditions of the respective airline, including but not limited to deposit/full payment and cancellation terms.

Please read these booking conditions carefully. You must not make any booking unless you understand and agree with these booking conditions.

Our trips are designed strictly for young people between the ages of 18 to 39 years.

Bookings can be made through your local travel agent or directly with Topdeck and must be secured with a deposit of the amount shown above. A contract between you and us (or between you and the relevant operator of a Locally Operated Trip) will exist as soon as (i); we issue an invoice in response to your request for a booking and (ii); your deposit is paid to us or your travel agent. If your booking is made through a travel agent, we will address all correspondence to that agent.

PRICE & PAYMENT The deposit is non-refundable unless we cancel your trip. The balance of your trip must be paid no later than 42 days prior to your trip departure date. If you do not pay within this period we may cancel your booking and your deposit will be forfeited. Full payment is required if you make a booking within 42 days of the departure date. If your booking is a special offer we may require full payment (including any pre and post accommodation and sundry service charges) by such earlier time as specified in the offer.

Prices quoted in our brochures are calculated on costs and exchange rates as at the Brochure Validity Date. These prices may increase or decrease. We may alter prices and other particulars contained in our brochures and on our website at any time. Before you make a booking we will provide you with details of the current price of your chosen trip. Offered discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Please ensure you carefully read your invoice, tickets and all other documents we send to you as soon as you receive them and contact us or your travel agent immediately if any information appears to be incorrect. We will not accept any liability if you fail to notify us of any inaccuracy in any document within 14 days of us sending them to you or the travel agent. You are responsible for ensuring that you have the correct and valid travel documents including passports, visas and vaccination certificates. We strongly recommend that you verify current documentation requirements with your travel agent or us. Please note requirements change and you must check with your consulate for the most up to date information, including but not limited to visa requirements for the countries visited on your trip. Passports must have an expiry date of at least six months after completion of the trip.

IF YOU CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR BOOKING If you want to change or cancel any aspect of your booking including but not limited to a change to a trip of shorter duration or different departure date you must notify us in writing. We will do our best to accommodate your requested change but it may not always be possible. We will not charge a fee for changes requested more than 42 days before departure except where we incur a cost from a supplier, in which case we will advise you of the relevant fee. All change/ cancellation fees must be paid within seven days of the invoice date or on the date of departure, whichever is the sooner.

If you are prevented from traveling as a result of illness, death of an immediate family member, jury service, or other reason beyond your control which we consider significant, we may agree to your booking being transferred to another person who satisfies all the conditions applicable to the trip, subject to you and the other person accepting liability for full payment of the trip cost and any additional costs arising from the transfer and provided that you give us not less than 21 days' written notice of the proposed transfer.

CANCELLATION OR MODIFICATION BY US Every effort will be made to operate all trips as advertised but it must be remembered that our trips are planned up to eighteen months in advance. We may therefore, at our discretion, modify or cancel any trip, accommodation or arrangement at any time. We will notify you as soon as possible of any changes and they will form part of our contract with you. In the case of any material modification or cancellation, we will, if possible, provide you with three alternatives: (1) a trip of an equivalent or closely similar standard and price, if available; or (2) a trip of a lower standard together with a refund of the difference in price; or (3) cancellation with a full refund of all monies paid.

A material modification is one that has a serious impact on your trip and includes a change of departure date, departure point or airport, or change of departure time of more than twelve hours, which would cause substantial inconvenience to you.

A change of accommodation, or transport method/style is not a material modification. We may alter or substitute the type or size of vehicle, or method/style of transport mentioned in the brochure, depending on the number of passengers carried, which can vary from trip to trip. Normally the maximum group size is between 36 and 48 passengers. In certain countries there are strict laws governing drivers' hours and this may necessitate utilising public transport in some cities.

Topdeck may require a minimum number of participants for certain trips. In the event that insufficient bookings have been made as at 42 days prior to departure, we may cancel the scheduled trip, whereupon all money paid by you for your Topdeck trip will be refunded and no further compensation will be paid. In such circumstances, you agree to release Topdeck from any further obligations which

would have been enforceable had the trip not been cancelled.

take responsibility for any such requirements not being fulfilled.

OUR LIABILITY TO YOU FOR TOPDECK OPERATED TRIPS

If you have a medical condition or require special arrangements that may affect your trip, we ask that you inform us in writing at the time of booking. If we cannot reasonably accommodate your particular needs we may decline the booking or ask for you to be accompanied by a person who is able to provide full assistance to you throughout your trip.

Save where the provisions of Force Majeure apply, if the trip does not materially comply with the description in the brochure, Topdeck may compensate you to a maximum value equal to the price of the trip. Topdeck will only be liable to pay the maximum amount of compensation where there has been a total failure of consideration for your payment.

Topdeck will not be liable where any failure in the performance or provision of your trip is due to: (a) your acts or omissions or the acts or omissions of another member in your group (b) any third party not connected with the provision of your travel arrangements (c) unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised or (d) an event which we or a travel service provider, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall (including but not limited to Force Majeure and unavoidable technical problems with transport and similar events).

Our liability will in all cases be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to any applicable international conventions, including but not limited to the Geneva Convention in respect of carriage by road, the Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail and the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation which set time limits for notifications/claims and limit the amount of compensation that can be claimed for death, injury, delay to passengers/guests and loss, damage and delay to luggage.

We will not be responsible for any loss or damage sustained by you as a result of a contravention of any law or regulation of any of the countries visited while on the trip.

OUR LIABILITY TO YOU FOR LOCALLY OPERATED TRIPS If your trip is a Locally Operated Trip as listed above our obligation to you is to (and you expressly authorise us to) make trip bookings on your behalf with reasonable skill and care and to arrange a contract between you and the relevant operator. We exercise care in the selection of reputable local operators but we have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties. All bookings are made on your behalf subject to the terms and conditions, including conditions of carriage and limitations of liability, imposed by the local operator (available on request). Your legal rights in connection with such trips are against the local operator and are not against us, except to the extent a problem is caused by fault on our part.

SEATBELTS You must wear a seatbelt at all times whilst you are in any vehicle. Neither Topdeck nor any local operator will be liable for any injury, death or claim howsoever arising from any accident if you have failed to comply with this requirement.

FLEXIBILITY DURING TRIP Your booking is accepted on the condition that you understand, and take responsibility for, the risks inherent in adventure travel. Every effort will be made to operate all trips featured in this brochure but there may be a necessity to vary the itinerary from that stated in the brochure, and delays may occur for a variety of reasons beyond our control. The need for a flexible attitude to this type of travel is important. All decisions relating to a trip itinerary will be taken by the Trip Leader, as appointed by us in the interest of the group as a whole. Please note that due to public holidays some sights or activities may not be available on a particular trip. No refund will be made for services made available by Topdeck but which for whatever reason are not used by you once the trip has departed.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS Topdeck and its employees, agents and contractors make no representation or warranty in relation to implied or explicit suggestions or recommendations of services, activities and events not highlighted as included in a trip. You are responsible for all risks associated with the transportation to/from, and your participation in, or visitation to, any place, activity or excursion not listed as an inclusion.

During your trip you will be offered the chance to purchase various optional excursions and activities. Topdeck does not own, operate or control any of the companies or individuals which provide the optional activities or excursions.

Some of the optional activities and excursions, such as canyoning, are inherently dangerous and risky. If you want to take part in such optional activities or excursions you must be fit enough to do so and must follow all reasonable instructions.

The standards of health and safety which will be adopted by the company or the individual providing the optional activity or excursion will be those of the country where the optional activity or excursion takes place. Please note that these standards may not be the same as you would find in your home country. If you wish to book any optional excursion or activity, you may do so subject to the operator’s terms and conditions. Your contract will be with the operator of the activity or excursion and will be governed by local law. Topdeck acts only as their agent. Topdeck’s Trip Leader will have further details and additional information can be found on our website. Topdeck accepts no liability for any act or omission of any operator or operator’s employees, agents or sub-contractors.

EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY – FORCE MAJEURE We do not accept liability for any loss, damage or expense resulting from war or terrorist activities threatened or actual, civil unrest, industrial action threatened or actual, weather conditions, fire, flood, drought, closures, unforeseen alterations to public transport schedules, rescheduling of aircraft or boats, epidemic or outbreaks of illness or any other event outside our control which either delays or extends or reduces the trip, or compels a change in the trip arrangements after departure (“Force Majeure”).

DIETARY, HEALTH AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENT You must clearly state all your dietary requirements at the time of booking. We cannot guarantee that special dietary requirements can be met and we cannot

YOUR LIABILITY TO US You will not be permitted to embark or continue on the trip if your mental or physical condition is, in the reasonable opinion of any representative of Topdeck, such as to render you incapable of caring for yourself, or where you become objectionable to other passengers, or you become a hazard to yourself or other passengers. We will not be responsible for expenses resulting in you being precluded from completing the trip for any reason, nor will we refund you any part of your trip cost. In all cases we will notify you of the reasons why we have taken this action. We will have no obligation to arrange for your return to the point of the trip departure if your condition manifests itself after the trip departure. Further, if the trip involves travel by air, the captain of your aircraft can refuse to allow you to fly on the aircraft if he believes that you could be dangerous or disruptive to other passengers on the flight.

You indemnify us against all third-party actions taken against us for loss or damage caused by you or arising from your participation on the trip.

INSURANCE & CLAIMS You must take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel on your trip. Your insurance protection must include cover for cancellation, medical and repatriation expenses, personal injury and accident, death, and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability insurance. Evidence of such insurances must be produced to Topdeck on request and normally on day one of your trip.

Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive.

If you make a claim against Topdeck you agree to assign to us or our insurers any rights to take action against any third party supplier/tour operator or any other person or party that may have been wholly or partly responsible for the claim or who Topdeck reasonably considers should be a party to the action. You must co-operate fully with Topdeck should Topdeck or its insurers wish to enforce those rights which have been assigned to Topdeck. If you make a claim against us which is covered by your insurance policy, you agree to pursue the claim through your insurer either in addition to, or in substitution for, your claim against us (if any). We agree to indemnify you in respect of reasonable expenses incurred in successfully pursuing such a claim and acknowledge that any settlement made by the insurer shall not prejudice your rights against us.

COMPLAINTS In the event of any dissatisfaction with the accommodation or any other service provided by Topdeck, you must report it immediately to the Trip Leader so that action can be taken to remedy the problem. Failure to immediately notify the Trip Leader of any problem may result in your claim for compensation from us being denied or reduced. Any complaint made to Topdeck following the conclusion of the trip should be made in writing within 28 days of completion of the trip. In the event that you do not notify us in writing within 28 days, Topdeck’s ability to investigate the complaint may be prejudiced. In the UK, 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.

DATA PROTECTION We are committed to protecting your personal information and agree to process your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Notice, which is available online at www.topdeck.travel/privacy. In order to make your booking and ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly, we need to use the information you provide and pass it on to other relevant suppliers who are responsible for parts of your travel arrangements. In many cases this will include transferring your data to overseas recipients (including to recipients outside of the European Union). In making this booking, your consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons is deemed to be given unless you object and advise Topdeck of your objection at the time of booking. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. This consent applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities or dietary/ religious requirements.

SMOKING Topdeck enforces a non-smoking policy on our coaches (although we make frequent stops for breaks) and in most of our accommodation.

LUGGAGE There are strict weight limits for coaches when fully loaded. You are only entitled to have one piece of main luggage of standard size (see the pre-departure information or our website for size limits) and not weighing more than 20kg (or 15kg for Outback trips). In addition you may bring a sleeping bag, as required on specific trips, and a daypack.

PUBLISHING CONSENT You acknowledge and agree that future Topdeck advertising and publicity material may include statements made by passengers, or their photographs, and you consent to such use of your comments or photographic/video likeness.

WI-FI Topdeck will endeavor to deliver Wi-Fi connection as stated on relevant trips to the best of its ability. This service is subject to availability and may not be available on some peak season departures or in the event of technical issues.

MAPS

7 DAY SKI JAPAN TOKYO

TOKYO

ASIA

P.20

7 DAY THAI ISLANDS SAMUI SUNSETS

7 DAY BALI ISLAND HOPPER

KOH SAMUI

SEMINYAK

KOH SAMUI

2

P.22

SEMINYAK

P.24

Koh Tao

Hakuba

Gili Trawangan

START/FINISH

6

Tokyo JAPAN

Koh Phangan

Ubud

2

2

START/FINISH

Seminyak BALI

HOTEL

1 Lembongan Island

2

HOSTEL PLUS

START/FINISH

Koh Samui THAILAND

7 DAY THAI ISLANDS KO-CONUT HOPPER

12 DAY JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS

PHUKET

TOKYO

PHUKET

P.21

12 DAY CHINA LIVE

OSAKA

P.26

BEIJING

13 DAY VIETNAM UNCOVERED

HONG KONG

HO CHI MINH CITY

P.28

HANOI

FINISH

Overnight train

2

1

2

1

1 1

Hanoi

P.30

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

START

Beijing CHINA

Krabi 1

2

Xian

1 Hoi An

START

Tokyo JAPAN

Takayama

START/FINISH

2

Phuket THAILAND

2

Hiroshima

Koh Phi Phi

Miyajima

Osaka

2

Chengdu

Kyoto

FINISH

1

1 1 Koyasan

1

Longsheng

2

Nha Trang

Yangshuo

2

1

FINISH

START

VIETNAM

2 1

14 DAY CLASSIC THAILAND

BANGKOK

BANGKOK

BANGKOK

P.32

P.33

1

1

Overnight Train

Chiang Mai

2

OSAKA

P.40

START

2

Tokyo JAPAN

Vang Vieng

2

1

TOKYO

2

1

LAOS

P.34

Luang Prabang

Pakbeng

2

Kyoto 2

Overnight Train

Hakone/Mount Fuji

2 START/FINISH

Overnight Train

1

1 Osaka

Bangkok THAILAND

1 2 1

START/FINISH

Bangkok THAILAND

Bangkok

Koh Tao Koh Phangan

2

Koh Samui

STARTS

ENDS

FINISH

27 DAY ASIAN FUSION BANGKOK

8 DAY VIETNAMESE VOYAGE

HANOI

P.36

LAOS

1

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

Hanoi

Luang Prabang

1

1 1

1

HO CHI MINH CITY

HANOI

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise FINISH

2

Hanoi

2

1

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

Vang Vieng

Overnight Train

1 Hoi An

Hue

2 2

Krabi

2

1 START

Koh Phi Phi

Bangkok

Siem Reap CAMBODIA

2 Nha Trang

THAILAND

Phnom Penh

2

2 2

1

Overnight Train

Ho Chi Minh City VIETNAM

1

DAYS TRIP NAME STARTS 7 THAI ISL ANDS KO-CONUT HOPPER PHUKET

P.42

2

2

1

2

Phnom Penh

P. 21

KOH SAMUI

FINISH

2

FINISH

2 2

KOH SAMUI

Pakbeng

Phuket

CAMBODIA

THAILAND

2

DAYS TRIP NAME 7 THAI ISL ANDS SAMUI SUNSETS

2

Siem Reap

START

Chumphon

Overnight Train

Vinh Long

7 DAY JAPANESE EXPRESS

PHNOM PENH

Chiang Rai

1

Chiang Mai

BANGKOK

1

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai

15 DAY ROAD TO PHNOM PENH

BANGKOK

ENDS P. PHUKET 21

2

Overnight Train

Hong Kong

Ho Chi Minh City

13 DAY MY THAI

Hue

2

DAYS TRIP NAME 13 VIETNAM UNCOVERED 15 ROAD TO PHNOM PENH

STARTS ENDS HO CHI MINH CIT Y HANOI BANGKOK PHNOM PENH

P. 30 34

Vinh Long, Mekong River

START

Ho Chi Minh City VIETNAM

2

Hoi An

A U D

Eu rope USA & Canada Asia Australia & NZ Afr ica & Middle East CALL US

EXCLUSIVE AGENT:

1300 8 86 332

EMAIL US INFO@TOPDECK .TR AVEL

ON THE WEB W W W.TOPDECK .TR AVEL

HEAD OFFICE

FOURTH FLOOR, 199 GRE Y S T, SOUTH BRISB ANE, QLD 4101

Design by Topdeck. Printed August 2017 © Topdeck.

Topdeck is a registered trademark of Top Deck Travel Limited.

Top Deck Tours Pty Ltd ABN 30 107 934 841