ASIA 2018 AUTHENTIC 22 HAND-CRAFTED TRIPS SHOWCASING THE SPIRIT OF INDIA, SRI LANKA, JAPAN, CHINA, HONG KONG, BURMA, THAILAND, CAMBODIA, LAOS, VIETNAM, MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEYS THAT TAKE YOU DEEPER INTO EACH DESTINATION TO REVEAL THEIR TRUE ESSENCE ENJOY MEASURE YOUR JOURNEY IN SMILES WITHOUT A WORRY IN THE WORLD

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I’M ALWAYS INTRIGUED BY THE CONTRAST THAT CAN BE FOUND ACROSS THE ASIAN CONTINENT; WHERE OLD MEETS NEW WHILE EFFORTLESSLY EXISTING SIDE-BY-SIDE. This is reflected in a number of ways; through the profound respect held for the elderly by the young who also have a great desire to evolve within modern society yet listen intently to learn age-old traditions handed down through generations. Another example can be found in Japan, where we held our annual conference last year. While travelling on high-speed state-of-the-art bullet trains you’ll come within metres of old buildings. Within the bustling metropolis of Tokyo ancient structures are a contrast to nearby neon signs, yet despite the obvious differences, everything exists in symmetry and with great harmony. There is a certain purity of life that is truly spiritual and quite often touching in this part of the world; it makes me feel incredibly privileged to spend time here. Today, we make travelling to this culturally rich and enormously diverse continent both simple and accessible. Join us as we take you on a captivating journey across Asia where you’ll witness a blend of customs.

GAVIN TOLLMAN Trafalgar CEO

DISCOVERING AUTHENTIC DESTINATIONS SINCE 1947

Over 5 million HAPPY GUESTS

COUNTRIES

230

ITINERARIES

97%

SATISFACTION

Infinite MEMORIES

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CONTENTS 15 HAND-CRAFTED ITINERARIES THAT HIGHLIGHT ASIA’S DIVERSITY

Experience Exotic Charm

5 Ways to Travel Thank You

JAPAN

Style

Days

Pages

Splendours of Japan

22 - 23

6 - 7

Splendours of Japan with Hiroshima

24 - 25

8 - 9

Spiritual Japan NEW

26 - 27

Meet – Enchanting Encounters

10 - 11

Spiritual Japan with Tokyo NEW

Taste – Vietnamese food ticks all the boxes

12 - 13

Hokkaido Discovery NEW

Days

Pages

Unwind – A Journey through Time

Enjoy – Impossibly Pretty Patterns

TTC Family of Brands

15 16 - 17

Our promise

INDIA AND SRI LANKA

Style

Treasures of Northern India with Mumbai

30 - 31

About ME to WE

India’s Golden Triangle with Varanasi NEW

32 - 33

Join Trafalgar

Wonders of Sri Lanka

34 - 35

Days

Pages

Your Savings

20 - 21

Extend your stay

54 - 55

Travel Essentials: Airport Transfers, My Trafalgar, Groups, Gold Seal Protection

56 - 57

Booking Conditions

58 - 59

CHINA

Style

Classic China

36 - 37

Classic China with Yangtze Cruise and Chengdu

38 - 39

Days

Pages

40 - 41

SOUTH EAST ASIA Colonial Singapore and Malaysia with Beach Stay NEW

42 - 43

Highlights of Vietnam

44 - 45

Treasures of Thailand with Cambodia option

46 - 47

Treasures of Thailand with the Golden Triangle m

Highlights of Vietnam with Cambodia

Mini Stays

h Regional Explorer

Secrets of Cambodia

50 - 51

Secrets of Cambodia with Laos

Days

Pages

Hong Kong and Macau Experience

Singapore Explorer

TRIP STYLE KEY m Country Explorer

Spiritual Burma

MINI STAYS

g Hidden Journey

Style

j Cruise, Rail and Combos

Style

PROUDLY USING 100% RECYCLED PAPER*

Trafalgar, as part of The Travel Corporation, is proud to be using 100% recycled LEIPA paper for the body of our brochures.

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EXPERIENCE EXOTIC CHARM UNEARTH THE TRUE SPIRIT OF ASIA

Sapporo

JAPAN

Tokyo Kyoto

Beijing

Hiroshima

CHINA

JAMMU & KASHMIR

Osaka

CLASSIC CHINA WITH YANGTZE CRUISE AND CHENGDU

SPLENDOURS OF JAPAN WITH HIROSHIMA

Zhengzhou Xi’an

17 Days

Shanghai

13 Days

Hangzhou Chengdu

Delhi Jaipur Udaipur

Mumbai

HONG KONG AND MACAU EXPERIENCE

Agra

4 Days

Varanasi

INDIA’S GOLDEN TRIANGLE WITH VARANASI 8 Days

INDIA

Hong Kong Macau

Mandalay

Hanoi Luang Prabang

MYANMAR

Vientiane

Chiang Mai

Yangon

Halong Bay

SECRETS

LAOS OF CAMBODIA

WITH LAOS

THAILAND Bangkok

Bangalore

11 Days

CAMBODIA Phnom Penh

VIETNAM

Ho Chi Minh City SRI LANKA Colombo

h COLONIAL SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA 12 Days

Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA

SINGAPORE Singapore

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5 WAYS TO TRAVEL ALL TRIPS MAXIMUM 26 GUESTS WE’LL GUIDE YOU ACROSS THIS FASCINATING CONTINENT WITH 5 TRIP STYLES IN SMALL INTIMATE GROUPS

COUNTRY EXPLORER

REGIONAL EXPLORER

Single country

Two or more countries

Explore one country in depth as you taste the flavours, enjoy rich cultural experiences and discover its very essence and uniqueness.

Visiting two or more countries, discover the stories of the people through engaging in local experiences.

HIDDEN JOURNEYS

CRUISE, RAIL & COMBOS

MINI STAY

Off the beaten track

Multi-transport travel

Extended trip

Go off the beaten track and explore in a way that allows you to truly absorb your surroundings while delving deeper into each destination to discover the spirit of every location.

Travel over land, upon water, by coach or train and explore the beauty of Asia across varied landscapes chosen to navigate the terrain.

Customise your trip to spend more time in some of Asia’s most fascinating locations. Add a Mini Stay to another Trafalgar itinerary or book them independently.

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THANK YOU YOU’VE MADE US… SIMPLY THE BEST

TRUE 97% GUEST SATISFACTION We believe so much in what we do that we invite all past guests to post completely transparent reviews on an independent website. We’ve established a genuine 97% guest rating.

From Australia to Canada, the United Kingdom to the United States, we continue to win the most awards, including: 2017 Best Escorted Tour Operator, Overall

EXPERIENCE THE EXTRAORDINARY

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BEYOND

ANYTHING I HAD EVER

IMAGINED Over 70 years, we have been guided by our love of travel and our desire to continuously discover new destinations and fascinating cultures. Our unwavering passion has driven us to refine how our guests love to travel and to create real lifestyle experiences that are effortless, authentic and fun. We delight in sharing our deep local knowledge and expertise and creating hassle-free experiences at unrivalled value. Our commitment to creating life-changing experiences is the reason our guests and agents have voted us:

GENUINE GUEST PHOTOS: Real photographs from real guests reflect outstanding memories made. Thank you for sharing your happy Trafalgar moments with us: Anita, Calvin, Chihhan, Douglas, Lauren, Lesleyanne, Linda Mady, Maynard, Roberta and Vivian. 7

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A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME Welcome to one of the world’s most dynamic regions where we will guide you, without a care in the world, through this melting pot of cultural diversity. We’ll take you to the heart of Singapore and reveal Malaysia’s true colours as we lead you on a fascinating journey exploring each nation’s rich cultural heritage and luscious landscapes. In Singapore you’ll discover Gardens by the Bay; an awardwinning waterside nature park spanning 101 hectares of reclaimed land adjacent to the Marina Reservoir. We’ll guide you through Singapore’s architectural, culinary, cultural and spiritual attractions and showcase the contrast visible across various neighbourhoods, such as Chinatown and Little India, while also revealing the republic’s undeniable tropical beauty. Crossing the border into Malaysia, you’ll discover Malacca’s colonial history seen in its buildings before reaching the vibrant capital and moving further north to the picturesque landscape that can be found in the Cameron Highlands. We journey up to Penang where one of our Local Specialists will share with you the art of roasting ‘kopi’, Malaysia’s iconic white coffee. Trip: Colonial Singapore and Malaysia



TRANSFERS & ACCOMMODATION ALL TAKEN CARE OF



GET TO THE HEART OF EACH DESTINATION



FRIENDSHIPS FROM AROUND THE WORLD



BEST TRAVEL DIRECTORS

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“ Organisation and care for our well-being was paramount with our Travel Director. Hotels and buses were great and knowledge of the sites we were seeing was excellent.” ROBIN, FROM NEW ZEALAND, 2016 Read more of our reviews: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

A RESIDENCE DESIGNED FOR ROYALS You will stay in the Rawla Narlai; a 17th century property that was once the hunting lodge of the Jodphur Royal Family, located deep in the Aravalli Hills within a small village. Today its lavish rooms interspersed by picturesque courtyards and beautiful terraces accommodate you on a two night stay where an intricate candlelit dinner overlooking an ancient step well is a highlight of this awe-inspiring trip. Trip: Treasures of Northern India with Mumbai

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ENCHANTING ENCOUNTERS Travel is magical and some places touch you more profoundly than others; Burma is one of them. We’ll show you what makes this Asian nation, officially known as Myanmar, and until recently shrouded in mystery, so distinctive and unique. Observe and take part in the ancient tradition of an oil lamp lighting ceremony at Shwedagon Pagoda; dating back 2,500 years, it is the most sacred Buddhist site in the country. Meet merchants from the hill tribes that surround the township of Nyaungshwe who sell their wares aboard colourful wooden longtail boats. And look out for Intha fishermen on Inle Lake, who stand with one leg firmly placed on their boat, while the other gracefully paddles as they fish for carp; a balancing act that is more than impressive. With insightful and touching moments experienced through its people, you’ll understand Burma’s rich history, culture and uniqueness in the world. Trip: Spiritual Burma



UNIQUE BE MY GUEST EXPERIENCES



CULINARY ADVENTURES



LOCAL CHARACTERS



CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

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MEET OUR PASSIONATE PEOPLE

JANICE FARNUM

ANU PROMKUM

Director of Asian Product

Travel Director

17 years with Trafalgar

4 years with Trafalgar

Languages: English, Spanish & Italian

Languages: Thai & English

WHAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT MY JOB Asia has been a passion of mine ever since I spent a year living and working in Hong Kong some years ago. During my career with Trafalgar, first working in European Operations, including some time as a Travel Director in Italy, the opportunity arose to work for the Asia product; I jumped at the chance. I am very lucky that I am doing my dream job!

MY FAVOURITE THAI DISH Som Tam is one of Thailand’s most famous dishes, made from freshly grated green papaya and a host of other sweet, salty, sour, savoury and spicy ingredients. Artfully combined in a mortar and pestle, it can be found across the country from street side trolleys to luxury hotels. Eat it with Thai-style grilled chicken (gai yang) and sticky rice (khao niau) to combat the spiciness.

MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS Carry some small, portable luggage scales when travelling and check that the weight of your suitcases and hand luggage is acceptable for each flight before going to the airport. It’s also generally cheaper to pay excess baggage fees on an airline’s website as opposed to at the airport.

ONE SITE THAT EVERY TRAVELLER SHOULD SEE IN THAILAND Wat Pho in the evening; it is a Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok situated to the south of the Grand Palace. As you stroll through the four great Stupas and light reflects off of the colourful mosaics, you’ll feel a sense of calm and balance.

“ Exceptional organisation and coordination of all activities. Our travel guide ensured we had continual advice on the culture and noteworthy points along the way.” GRAHAM, FROM AUSTRALIA, 2017 Read more of our reviews: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

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VIETNAMESE FOOD TICKS ALL THE BOXES Genuine Vietnamese food is not only extremely flavourful but is some of the most healthy and well-balanced food in the world. You’ll discover how sharing is caring when you savour Vietnamese meals while engaging in the social element of local dining. You’ll also get to indulge in mouth-watering flavours that allow you to experience the richness of the culinary creations Vietnam has to offer. Make sure to sample the nation’s national dish, pho. This hearty noodle soup is not only full of flavour but is said to possess magical healing powers. Another well-known Vietnamese favourite is the Báhn Mì sandwich made with chicken and pickled vegetables and a must-try dish for fish lovers is, Cha Ca. Delicately sautéed in oil, white fish is then sprinkled with fresh dill and spring onion before being served with silky rice noodles and crunchy peanuts; simply delicious. In Vietnam you’ll discover a diversity of foods that will bring you back time and time again. Trip: Highlights of Vietnam with Cambodia



50% DINNERS & ALL BREAKFASTS



LOCAL CULINARY DISCOVERIES



EXCELLENT BE MY GUEST EXPERIENCES

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SICHUAN STYLE In your local cooking class we’ll introduce you to Chinese food, authentic Sichuan cuisine to be precise, which can only really be experienced in its homeland. Within the city of Chengdu we’ll take you to the Museum of Sichuan Cuisine to learn all about traditional cooking methods, which combine bold flavours quite different to the rest of the country’s practices. Using a pestle and mortar from the days of the Qing Dynasty, you’ll get to crush chillies into a fine powder, observe what an ancient kitchen looked like and view old manuscripts from over 3,000 years ago that contain the secrets to the creation of Sichuan dishes. Trip: Classic China with Yangtze Cruise & Chengdu

“ Splendours of Japan was our second Trafalgar experience and it far exceeded our expectations; our local Tour Director was fantastic.” CHRISTOPHER, FROM AUSTRALIA, 2017 Read more of our reviews: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

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IMPOSSIBLY PRETTY PATTERNS Japan is famed for its creativity, particularly in pieces of intricate detail, such as the patterns found upon handmade Washi paper; a tradition that dates back centuries. Made from the inner bark of three plants; Gampi, Kozo and Mitsumata, this ancient art-form still exists today and we’ll take you on an insightful experience where you get to try your hand at making your own. The picturesque area of Gokayama, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site has kept the tradition of Washi paper production alive for centuries, passing it down from generation to generation. You’ll meet the artisans who make this delightful paper and learn about the ways in which it is used. The area is also well-known for thatched roof houses called, Gassho-zukuri, which were designed to resist heavy snowfall. These rooftops resemble palms placed together with fingers facing upwards as if in prayer; a thought-provoking setting to observe one of the most labour intensive processes on the planet. Trip: Splendours of Japan with



CRAFTED ITINERARIES

 LOCAL

DISCOVERIES MUST-DO

 SIGHTSEEING  FREE

TIME

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A FAMILY OF BRANDS DEDICATED TO DELIVERING EXCELLENCE IN TRAVEL The Travel Corporation (TTC) is a family-owned business spanning four generations with unrivalled expertise and an undeniable passion for travel. Our guests are at the heart of everything we do and we are dedicated to consistently provide an impeccable service with richer, deeper experiences on every trip we create. Due to our size, the access we have to some of the world’s greatest destinations and our ability to negotiate the best rates, we ensure that we can provide you with a holiday of a lifetime. TTC’s 25 award-winning, international travel and tourism brands offer industry-leading travel experiences for all lifestyles, budgets and dreams. Below you’ll find a few of our brands. Go to TTC.com for more information.

a f a m i ly o f br a n d s

ttc.com 15

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OUR PROMISE GUIDING YOU ON A JOURNEY FILLED WITH DIVERSITY

Weâ€™ll show you why Asia is one of our favourite continents as we showcase its incredible depth; visible through vibrant cultures, diverse cuisines, ancient traditions and deep spirituality. We know where to take you on intimate journeys across Asia that reveal the true essence of lands steeped in history.

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 STRESS-FREE TRAVEL EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY AND SERVICE It’s so easy. We are with you all the way, taking care of every detail so you can enjoy the journey fully. Thanks to our local knowledge, you enjoy every nuance of the destination. Every trip is tailored to offer the best possible service, experience and value for our guests.

VIP TREATMENT Get straight to the heart of your destination with free airport transfers on the first and last day of your trip, as well as in conjunction with pre/post nights booked through Trafalgar.

THE RIGHT ACCOMMODATION

TRAVEL IN COMFORT

All of our selected hotels are hand-picked to fit seamlessly with your itinerary and to showcase the destination.

Enjoy luxury air-conditioned coaches and ample legroom, reclining seats. Some itineraries include travel by train or boat and all include internal flights. Forget about map-reading, tolls and navigation.

 UNRIVALLED VALUE VALUE FOR MONEY

VALUE FOR TIME

NEW FRIENDSHIPS

The savings we make get passed on to you.

Maximising what you can cover, on a smooth and seamless holiday.

Make new, like-minded English-speaking friends, meet warm-hearted locals and join our family of travellers.

 LOCAL KNOWLEDGE UNMATCHED ITINERARIES Every itinerary is designed to showcase the must-see sights and take you deeper into the destination with Local Specialists, Hidden Treasures and Be My Guest experiences, all bringing locations to life.

LOCAL EXPERTS IN CULINARY ALL LOCATIONS Your Travel Director DISCOVERIES Food is core to exploring and appreciating different cultures, meeting locals and eating together, discovering new and exciting flavours and recipes.

is the key to your trip and, without a doubt, we have the best in the business. They hone their skills through bespoke training. With an unwavering passion for travel and discovery, they make your journey unforgettable.

WAYS TO TRAVEL

INSIDER EXPERIENCES

We create trip styles designed as the ultimate way to discover a given destination. Choose from five trips styles around Asia. Whether you like to see it all and hop borders, focus on one destination or take your time exploring at leisure, select a trip style to suit you.

We’ll give you a more tactile, enriching journey; a mosaic of exceptional experiences. Let us unveil sights and offer discoveries you’d never access alone, so you can feel the very heartbeat of the destination.

 TRAVEL TODAY, SUSTAIN TOMORROW At Trafalgar, we want to lead the way in sustainable tourism. That’s why on each trip, we’re working to ensure that every place you visit – its people, natural beauty, cultures and traditions – is preserved for future generations to enjoy. Find out more about Join Trafalgar on page 19.

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TRAVEL WITH PURPOSE IF YOU HAVE EVER THOUGHT ABOUT MAKING A REAL DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD, THEN THIS MAY BE THE OPPORTUNITY YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR. Whether it’s by building a school or collecting water with a local, our exciting new partnership with ME to WE is a chance to make your trip to rural India count for something extraordinary.

WHO IS ME TO WE?

WHAT YOU GET

ME to WE is an innovative social enterprise that provides products and experiences that make an impact, empowering people to change the world. ME to WE is a recognised leader in volunteer travel and partner of an awardwinning international charity with a 21-year history of sustainable development. Travellers make an impact by working side-by-side with local communities on a development project like building a school or water wells, ensuring brighter futures for generations to come.

As well as volunteering, you get to enjoy some of our standard extras:

HOW DO YOU PARTICIPATE? Gain hands-on volunteer experience as you help improve a community’s access to clean water, food, security, education, health or sustainable income. While making meaningful connections with local community members and immersing yourself in their culture and traditions, you help dig wells or build schools, helping to improve livelihoods. Your trip will continue to make an impact, long after you return home.

• En-suite accommodation at Araveli Cottages and Tented Camp • All meals and drinks at Araveli (including purified water, sodas, beer and wine) • All activities at Araveli • An experienced and professional ME to WE guide • A irfare: One way from Mumbai or Jaipur to Udaipur • Your ground transportation to and from Araveli Enjoy this experience after our ‘Treasures of Northern India with Mumbai’ or ‘India’s Golden Triangle with Varanasi’ itineraries.

FIND OUT MORE For more about ME to WE trips, departure dates and pricing, visit www.metowe.com/trafalgar

To find out more about Join Trafalgar’s partnership with ME to WE visit: www.trafalgar.com/partnership

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T R AV E L T O D AY, S U S TA I N T O M O R R O W OUR VISION Leading the way in sustainable tourism with our partners – safeguarding the natural beauty, cultures and traditions of the people and places we visit.

WHY? To help make travelling a force for good

HOW ARE WE MAKING A DIFFERENCE? Working with TreadRight, our parent foundation:

W H AT A R E WE DOING? Enabling our guests to explore globally and sustain locally:

...for today’s travellers.

...for tomorrow’s generations.

...for a more sustainable world.

INVESTING IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES

PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

PA RT N E R I N G FOR A BETTER FUTURE

• Enabling livelihoods

• Protecting wildlife

• Supporting crafts

• Conserving nature

orking for the greater • W good with stakeholders

reserving cultural • P heritage

• Minimising the footprint of our trips

• B uilding a sustainable tourism sector

L E T ’ S T R AV E L F U RT H E R TOGETHER

LET’S T R AV E L S M A RT E R

L E T ’ S T R AV E L F O R T H E G R E AT E R GOOD

Experiencing and supporting cultural heritage to keep traditions alive.

Visiting places of beauty and supporting the natural world.

Providing adventures and volunteering opportunities to help communities develop and thrive.

# J O I N T R A FA L G A R

www.trafalgar.com

C O A C H T R A N S P O R T I S A G R E E N E R WAY T O T R AV E L ≈ 85% less CO2 per passenger kilometre than car and air travel ≈ 40% less CO2 per passenger kilometre than rail travel. 19

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YOUR SAVINGS EXPERIENCE THE BEST HOLIDAYS, SPECTACULAR SAVINGS AND COMPREHENSIVE GOLD SEAL TRAVEL PROTECTION WITH TRAFALGAR.

BOOK EARLY AND SAVE

EXCLUSIVE AIR DEALS

SAVE UP TO A$933* PAY IN FULL BY 28 SEPTEMBER 2017 AND SAVE 10%

SAVE UP TO A$699* PAY IN FULL BY 14 DECEMBER 2017 AND SAVE 7.5%

SAVE UP TO A$466* PAY IN FULL BY 28 FEBRUARY 2018 AND SAVE 5%

Travel with Trafalgar for less – getting to your holiday destination has never been more affordable BOOK NOW CONTACT US

FOR SPECIAL AIR DEALS

www.trafalgar.com Pay In Full Conditions: *Per person. These Book and Pay Early Discounts apply to the land portion of selected holidays and departures. See itinerary pages. Can be combined with other discounts, where applicable. Pay your deposit when booking and the balance by the date shown. Offer is subject to availability, exclusions may apply and the offer may be withdrawn without notice. See page 58 for full conditions. General Conditions: Discounts only apply to the land portion of your holiday and are not applicable on any cruise portion of a holiday, mini-stays, extra nights’ accommodation, optional extensions, airfares, taxes and fees, flight supplements, surcharges, solo rooming discount and airport transfers. Sometimes more than one discount can apply. Past guest savings are available after your initial trip is completed. Savings limited to one per trip and applied to the higher priced of two trips if you book two at once. Book two or more trips applies to holidays booked simultaneously, savings are applied to the shortest trips. Groups are on request as they are limited to one group per coach. The discount is not available on holidays with internal flights, Hidden Journeys or the Special-Rate Solo Rooming discount and must be booked on the same booking number. Young Travellers must be aged 5-11 at time of travel, discount is limited to one per room. Triple reduction is based on three guests sharing one room and will often feature one double bed, plus one foldaway bed. Rooms are more suitable for two adults and one child (three adults may find rooms too small with limited suitcase space). Triple rooms are limited on cruises and not available on all trips. Holidays have a limited number of single rooms and are restricted to certain cabin categories on board cruises. Shared Rooming is not available in Asia. Deposit protection, travel credits can only be redeemed once per person and a limit of one trip credit applies. Does not apply if you previously received a full refund. We reserve the right to validate past booking status. If for any reason you do not travel, this credit remains for future use for five years.

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WELCOMING BACK PAST GUESTS Our guests are core to who we are. To thank you for your loyalty, we offer 5% off your next holiday. Let us take you to your destination of choice or visit our sister brands for inspiration: ttc.com/loyalty

BOOK TWO OR MORE TRIPS How about booking two or more trips and saving up to 2.5%? The more trips you book, the more you save. If they’re seven days or longer and you book multiple trips for one holiday spell, we offer you greater savings.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

GOLD SEAL PROTECTION TRIPLE SHARE

YOUNG TRAVELLER

Save when three of you travel together. If you book a triple room, enjoy discounts for all three guests.

Share the spirit of wanderlust with younger members of the family. On many trips, young travellers (5 -11 years old) enjoy up to 5% off when accompanying an adult.

Trafalgar’s Gold Seal Additional Protection provides insurance coverage for you while you are away, including trip cancellation up to 30 days prior to travel for any reason or interruptions whilst travelling due to illness. For peace of mind, see our Protection plan on page 57.

DEPOSIT PROTECTION TRAVEL WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS More friends? In a group of 5 - 8, get 5% off per person, which may be combined with other discounts. More than 9 of you? Contact us to ask about even bigger discount savings and our free trip policy.

SOLO TRAVELLER Some travellers have different needs. We keep it simple by providing the privacy of your own room. See single room prices on the itinerary pages.

Life happens. If you are forced to cancel your booking, instead of losing your deposit, we will keep it as a credit. We’ll honour this amount on any future trip, for up to five years.

DEFINITE DEPARTURES

We guarantee our trips will depart (weather and other conditions dependent, of course) as soon as enough guests are booked. Look out for the green tick when browsing prices and dates on www.trafalgar.com

SPECIAL-RATE SOLO ROOMING Part of our drive is to make it easier to travel solo. On certain departures, the standard single supplement is discounted: up to 50% off. To find such a trip, look out for ✚ against departures on itinerary pages.

WE’RE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY. 21

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TRAVEL STYLE

SPLENDOURS OF JAPAN

9 days - 1 country

A$4850

FROM PP*

Code: JPNL

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Pay your respects to the Fox Spirit at Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, climbing the extraordinary path lined with thousands of orange torii gates that snake through the forest up into the mountains above the City of 10,000 Shrines. Indulge in a delicious kaiseki lunch at a traditional ryokan and gain insight into Japanese customs.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b

8 nights Hotel accommodation 15 meals 8 buffet breakfasts 3 lunches (including Be My Guest) 4 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown (including express train) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST A kaiseki lunch at a traditional Japanese ryokan home near Kyoto where you will learn about local customs

CULTURAL INSIGHT Sample Japanese Sake during a walking tour in the Edo-style streets of Takayama Old Town. Learn how local artisans make Japanese washi paper in the UNESCO village of Gokayama

LOCAL SPECIALIST in Tokyo and Kanazawa

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tour of Tokyo ▶ Kyoto

JAPAN KANAZAWA 1

View Mt. Fuji

Gokayama 2

TAKAYAMA EXPRESS TRAIN

KYOTO 2

Geisha

JPNL.indd 1

Visit the Edo Tokyo Museum ▶ the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo ▶ Mt. Fuji 5th Station ▶ the Kinkakuji Temple ▶ Sanjusangen-do Hall ▶ Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto

LAKE 2 TOKYO YAMANAKAKO Mt. Fuji

See the traditional Gassho-zukuri houses in Gokayama ▶ the beautiful gardens of Kenrokuen in Kanazawa

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 15:32

ITINERARY 1 Arrive Tokyo (2 Nights) Welcome to Japan. Upon arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda International Airport, transfer by airport shuttle service to your centrally located hotel. This evening join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception drink and local appetisers. (WR) Hotel: New Otani

6 Takayama ▶ Kanazawa d This morning travel to Kanazawa and discover the secrets of gold leaf painting during a visit with a Local Specialist. The production of gold leaf started at the end of the 16th century and now 99% of Japan’s high quality gold leaf is produced in the area. Next visit the gardens of Kenrokuen, rated as one of the top three most beautiful gardens in Japan and a great place to see Cherry Blossom in the springtime. Take your time to relax and explore the ornate landscapes, temples and ponds. Afterwards take a short walk through the Omicho market to see the local fish catch and enjoy an insiders view of everyday life in a busy coastal town. Later visit the Nagamachi District with its old and beautifully preserved samurai houses. Visit the Nomura house, an elegant samurai mansion with beautiful small gardens belonging to a high-ranked samurai family. (BB) Hotel: Kanazawa Tokyu

3 Tokyo ▶ Lake Yamanakako d Start the day by heading to the Imperial Palace Plaza, a large park area in the centre of Tokyo from where the two bridges that form the entrance to the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace can be viewed. It is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan and built on the former site of Edo Castle. Take a stroll around the Imperial Palace East Gardens before 7 Kanazawa ▶ Kyoto (2 Nights) d continuing your City Tour with a visit to the This morning leave Kanazawa for Kyoto by Edo-Tokyo Museum. This fascinating museum Express train. On arrival enjoy a special Be My displays artifacts and architecture that tell a Guest lunch at a traditional ryokan nestled in tale of Tokyo’s history and culture during the the peace and quiet of Mt. Yoshida. The ryokan Edo period. Next head to the famous Ginza was built in 1932 by master craftsmen to serve district for a hands-on cooking class. Learn as the second residence of the uncle of the how to make sushi with a Local Specialist and current Japanese Emperor, Akihito. Learn more afterwards enjoy your sushi creations for lunch. about local Japanese customs as your hosts Then depart Tokyo for the Five Lakes District, welcome you into their beautiful home. After dominated by majestic UNESCO listed Mt. Fuji. At lunch visit Kinkakuji Temple, a UNESCO World 3,776 metres it is Japan’s highest mountain and Heritage Site famous for its Golden Pavilion. most recognisable icon. (BB, L, D) Hotel: Fuji The Kinkakuji history dates back to 1397, when Marriott Yamanakako the villa was purchased by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. When Yoshimitsu died, the building 4 Lake Yamanakako ▶ Mt. Fuji was converted into a Zen temple by his son. Later ▶ Takayama (2 Nights) check in to your hotel for a relaxing evening. After breakfast visit Oshino Hakkai, a small (BB, BG) Hotel: Nikko Princess Kyoto rural village in the Fuji Five Lakes district; a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site. Oshino 8 Kyoto Sightseeing Village boasts a beautiful park with 8 natural This morning visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine and spring water ponds that are fed by melted snow see the tunnel of thousands of bright orange from Mt. Fuji. The reflections of the sky and torii gates that snake through the forest up into landscapes on the clear and pure water provide the mountains. Then head to the Sanjusangenpicturesque scenes which make stunning do Hall, a temple famous for its 1001 statues of photographs. Then ascend Mt. Fuji by road to Kannon, the goddess of mercy and afterwards 2,300 metres at the 5th station before taking a enjoy a walking tour of the Gion area. Choose to ride on the Kachikachiyama Ropeway, (both remain in Gion to explore further or return to the weather permitting) a cable car ride offering hotel. This evening join your Travel Director and spectacular views on a clear day of Mt. Fuji and fellow guests for a Farewell Dinner at the Ninja Lake Kawaguchiko. Later travel through the Kyoto restaurant. Venture into the mysterious breath-taking Japanese Alps to the beautiful labyrinth and secret fortress of the Ninjas, the hillside town of Takayama before enjoying dinner traditional Japanese heroes and enjoy the at the hotel. (BB, D) Hotel: Associa Takayama creative Ninja-style food. (BB, FD) Resort 9 Depart Kyoto/Osaka 5 Takayama ▶ Gokayama ▶ Takayama Transfer by airport shuttle service to Kansai d International Airport or Osaka Itami Airport for This morning take a step back in time during your onward flight. Alternatively, continue to a visit to the peaceful mountain village and Hiroshima by choosing the 13 day itinerary on UNESCO designated site of Gokayama. See page 24. (BB) the unique Gassho-zukuri wooden houses; the steeply sloped thatched roofs resemble two hands together in prayer. Visit one of the houses

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$515 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

JPNL.indd 2

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

G BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Tokyo n

n H

End Kyoto

PRICE PP

Twin Share

Start Tokyo

End Kyoto

WE 03 JAN TH 11 JAN

4850

SU 11 FEB MO 19 FEB

4850

SU 10 JUN MO 18 JUN SU 17 JUN MO 25 JUN

4850 4850

SU 11 MAR MO 19 MAR SU 18 MAR MO 26 MAR SU 25 MAR MO 02 APR WE 28 MAR TH 05 APR

5095 5095 5150 5150

u SU 01 JUL MO 09 JUL

4850

SU 19 AUG MO 27 AUG

5095

SU 01 APR WE 04 APR SU 08 APR WE 11 APR SU 15 APR SU 22 APR

MO 09 APR TH 12 APR MO 16 APR TH 19 APR MO 23 APR MO 30 APR

5150 5150 5150 5150 5150 5150

SU 02 SEP SU 09 SEP SU 16 SEP SU 30 SEP

MO 10 SEP MO 17 SEP MO 24 SEP MO 08 OCT

5095 5095 5150 5150

SU 06 MAY WE 09 MAY SU 13 MAY SU 20 MAY

MO 14 MAY TH 17 MAY MO 21 MAY MO 28 MAY

5095 5095 5095 5095

n WE 03 OCT H SA 06 OCT SU 14 OCT SU 28 OCT

TH 11 OCT SU 14 OCT MO 22 OCT MO 05 NOV

5095 5095 5150 5150

SU 04 NOV MO 12 NOV SU 11 NOV MO 19 NOV SU 25 NOV MO 03 DEC

5150 5150 5095

SU 03 JUN MO 11 JUN

4850

SU 09 DEC MO 17 DEC

4850

Twin Share

JAPAN

2 Tokyo Sightseeing e This morning your City Tour begins with a stop in Asakusa and a visit to the Sensoji Buddhist temple. It is one of Tokyo’s most colourful and popular temples and has been rebuilt countless times since it was founded in 628, making it Tokyo’s oldest temple site. Visit Nakamise, a shopping street over 200 metres long that stretches from the outer gate to the temple’s second interior gate. Visit the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s highest free-standing broadcasting tower. Later choose to either return to the hotel at leisure or take part in an Optional Experience. (BB)

and meet the family. Later observe local artisans making washi paper and try your hand at making your own, a Cultural Insight. Lunch today is a Regional Meal of Japanese Hida beef at a local restaurant. Hida beef (Hida-gyu) is the specific name given to beef from a black-haired Japanese cattle breed, it is known as one of the finest quality varieties of beef. This afternoon begin your walking tour in the Edo style streets of the Old Town, shopping en route to sample Japanese sake, a Cultural Insight. (BB, RM)

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1040 p.p. Exceptions 25-Mar to 22-Apr-18: A$1150 p.p. 16-Sep to 11-Nov-18: A$1150 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$258 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$135

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$129 SAVE A$240 p.p.

7 Gion Festival: Takes place annually in Kyoto for the entire month of July. 1 Takayama Festival is considered one of Japans best festivals to see the traditional floats in the streets of Takayama. 4 Important Information: The Imperial Palace East Gardens are closed on Fridays so trips starting in Tokyo on Wednesdays will visit the Hamarikyu Japanese Garden instead.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are generally not required for Japan but please contact your travel agent for more information. Cherry Blossom season varies between different regions of Japan and is dependent on weather conditions. Late March to mid April are the most likely times to experience it on this trip but this is not guaranteed. Important Information: The Edo Tokyo Museum will be closed for renovation until 31 March 2018. During this time the National Museum will be visited instead. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55.

OPTIONAL TRADITIONAL RYOKAN STAY Extend your stay in Kyoto and take the opportunity to absorb genuine Japanese hospitality while staying in Authentic Accommodation in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn). The ryokan features traditional rooms with tatami mats, communal segregated gender bathing areas and provides guests with a yukata (cotton kimono) to wear. See page 55 for prices. 23

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

SPLENDOURS OF JAPAN WITH HIROSHIMA

13 days - 1 country

a b

12 nights Hotel accommodation 23 meals 12 buffet breakfasts 4 lunches (including Be My Guest) 7 dinners

A$7625

FROM PP*

Code: JPHO

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

SMALLER GROUPS

Embrace the timeless tradition and modern spirit of Japan’s iconic sites, from the neon skyline of Tokyo to the foodie hotspot of Osaka. Relax in the soothing hot springs of Kotohira, spend the night in a traditional ryokan and contemplate world peace at the final remnants of Hiroshima’s atomic blast.

On-trip transport All transport shown (including express train and bullet train) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES As per Splendours of Japan itinerary plus:

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Stay at a traditional ryokan in the mountain hot springs village of Kotohira

CULTURAL INSIGHT Sample the famous Hiroshima style okonomiyaki

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS As per Splendours of Japan itinerary plus: City Tour of Hiroshima Visit the Water Temple on Awaji Island ▶ the Peace Memorial Park and Museum in Hiroshima ▶ the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? KANAZAWA 1

Gokayama

JAPAN

Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

TAKAYAMA

TOKYO 2

EXPRESS TRAIN

2 KYOTO

BULLET TRAIN

HIROSHIMA 2

1 LAKE Mt. Fuji YAMANAKAKO

Awaji 1 OSAKA Island

Miyajima KOTOHIRA Island Shikoku Island

Sushi

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09/06/2017 15:32

ITINERARY

12 Hiroshima ▶ Osaka Take the high-speed bullet train to Osaka and on arrival have some free time for lunch and shopping in the Dotonbori Street area. Then stop for a visit to Osaka Castle; one of Japan’s most famous landmarks which played a major role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. Later check-in at your hotel and this evening enjoy a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant with your Travel Director and fellow guests. (BB, FD) Hotel: Sheraton Miyako Osaka

1-8 Tokyo ▶ Kyoto These days will operate as per days 1-8 of the Splendours of Japan itinerary on pages 22-23.

10 Kotohira ▶ Hiroshima (2 Nights) This morning visit the Zentsuji Temple, birthplace of one of the most revered figures of Japanese Buddhism, the high priest Kobo Daishi. It is the 75th temple on the 88 temple Shikoku Pilgrimage, which covers approximately 1,200 kilometres and was traditionally done on foot taking up to 60 days to complete. It is still done by many people today although modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. Continue to Omishima Island and make a stop at a local restaurant for lunch. Drive to Hiroshima via the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido Expressway, a 60-kilometre highway that links the islands of the Seto Inland Sea with nine individual bridges. (BB, L) Hotel: Rihga Royal 11 Hiroshima Sightseeing d This morning catch a ferry over to Miyajima Island. On arrival visit the Itsukushima Shrine and admire the elaborate torii gate rising majestically out of the sea. Have some free time for lunch and strolling around this peaceful island. Return to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. See the UNESCO listed Peace Memorial, the only structure left standing in the area when the first atomic bomb exploded in 1945. Through the efforts of many people, this ruin has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing as an expression of hope for world peace. This evening experience the famous Hiroshima style okonomiyaki, a Cultural Insight. Okonamiyaki is similar to a savoury pancake and is made with egg, cabbage, soba noodles, and meat, seafood or cheese and grilled in layers on a hot plate in front of you. (BB, RM)

WH Y EXP NOT L FUR ORE TH E R?

HOKKAIDO DISCOVERY

Extend your stay in Japan and visit Hokkaido; the second largest, northernmost and least developed of Japan’s four main islands. With its unspoiled nature, Hokkaido attracts many lovers of the outdoors. Stay in Sapporo, the largest city on Hokkaido Island and in Furano, with its beautiful lavender and flower fields. Please see page 29 for full details. The trip can be booked to follow on seamlessly from our Splendours of Japan with Hiroshima and Splendours of Japan trips on many departure dates.

PRICE PP Start Tokyo n

End Osaka

WE 03 JAN MO 15 JAN SU 11 FEB FR

PRICE PP

Twin Share

Start Tokyo

7625

SU 10 JUN FR SU 17 JUN FR

22 JUN 29 JUN

7625 7625

SU 01 JUL FR

13 JUL

7625

SU 19 AUG FR

31 AUG

7975

SU 02 SEP SU 09 SEP SU 16 SEP SU 30 SEP

FR FR FR FR

14 SEP 21 SEP 28 SEP 12 OCT

7975 7975 7995 7995

WE 03 OCT SA 06 OCT SU 14 OCT SU 28 OCT

MO 15 OCT TH 18 OCT FR 26 OCT FR 09 NOV

7995 7995 7995 7995

23 FEB 7625 u

n H

SU 11 MAR FR 23 MAR SU 18 MAR FR 30 MAR SU 25 MAR FR 06 APR WE 28 MAR MO 09 APR

7975 7975 7995 7995

SU 01 APR WE 04 APR SU 08 APR WE 11 APR SU 15 APR SU 22 APR

FR 13 APR MO 16 APR FR 20 APR MO 23 APR FR 27 APR FR 04 MAY

7995 7995 7995 7995 7995 7995

SU 06 MAY WE 09 MAY SU 13 MAY SU 20 MAY

FR 18 MAY MO 21 MAY FR 25 MAY FR 01 JUN

7975 7975 7975 7975

SU 03 JUN FR

15 JUN 7625

n H

End Osaka

Twin Share

SU 04 NOV FR SU 11 NOV FR SU 25 NOV FR

16 NOV 23 NOV 07 DEC

7995 7995 7975

SU 09 DEC FR

21 DEC

7625

JAPAN

9 Kyoto ▶ Kotohira d This morning leave Japan’s main island Honshu behind as you cross the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge, over the Seto Inland Sea to Awaji Island. Later have some free time for lunch and take a walk around Yumebutai, a complex of buildings built on the side of the mountain. One of the most striking 13 Depart Osaka features is the ‘100 Stepped Garden’ — a group Transfer by airport shuttle service to Kansai of 100 flowerbeds in small square gardens on International Airport, or Osaka Itami Airport for an incline and arranged in grids spread over your onward flight. (BB) several levels. Visit the Water Temple, designed by the Japanese architect Tadao Ando to be a sensory experience. See how the mountains, sky, AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION rice paddies and bamboo groves are reflected in the stillness of the water as you descend the steps to the Buddhist Temple below the water. Kotohira Grand Sakuranosho (ryokan) Continue to the small mountain hot springs Enjoy genuine Japanese hospitality while village of Kotohira for your overnight stay in staying in Authentic Accommodation in a your Authentic Accommodation, a Japanese traditional ryokan (Japanese inn). Get the best ryokan. Before dinner, if you wish, climb the of both worlds with the Japanese style rooms steps adjacent to the hotel to visit Kotohirawhich have the added comfort of western style gu Shrine and be rewarded with breathtaking beds (rooms with tatami mats instead of beds views of the surrounding countryside. This can be requested at the time of booking if evening perhaps have a relaxing soak in the preferred). The ryokan features communal hot hot spring (onsen) bath at the hotel. (BB, D) spring (onsen) baths and guests are provided Hotel: Kotohira Grand Sakuranosho (ryokan) with a yukata (cotton kimono) to wear. Authentic Accommodation

TRIP PLANNER

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1390 p.p. Exceptions 25-Mar to 22-Apr-18: A$1490 p.p. 16-Sep to 11-Nov-18: A$1490 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$400 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$285

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$200 SAVE A$335p.p.

7 Gion Festival: Takes place annually in Kyoto and is one of the most famous festivals in Japan. Events and parades are held for the entire month of July. 1 Takayama Festival is considered one of Japans best festivals to see the traditional floats in the streets of Takayama. 4 Important Information: The Imperial Palace East Gardens are closed on Fridays so trips starting in Tokyo on Wednesdays will visit the Hamarikyu Japanese Garden instead

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are generally not required for Japan but please contact your travel agent for more information. Cherry Blossom season varies between different regions of Japan and is dependent on weather conditions so can also vary slightly each year. Late March to mid April are the most likely times to experience it on this trip but this is not guaranteed. Important Information: The Edo Tokyo Museum will be closed for renovation until 31 March 2018. During this time the National Museum will be visited instead. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, upto-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$800 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

JPHO.indd 2

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

G 25

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

SPIRITUAL JAPAN

9 days - 1 country

A$6025

FROM PP*

Code: JPSJ

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Retrace the steps of the ancients – a spiritual interlude with some of Japan’s most sacred places and the extraordinary rituals performed throughout millennia. Visit the birthplace of Shingon Buddism, the elegantly painted sliding doors of Kongobuji Temple and delight in vegetarian dishes served by local monks at their monastery lodgings.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b

8 nights Hotel accommodation 15 meals 8 buffet breakfasts 3 lunches (including Be My Guest) 4 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Lunch with a monk at Shorenji Temple in Nabari

CULTURAL INSIGHT Enjoy a Japanese style vegetarian lunch at a monastery inn. Learn about the ‘Ama’, professional women shellfish divers.

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tour of Osaka ▶ Kyoto Visit Osaka Castle ▶ the Abeno Harukas Observatory in Osaka ▶ the Kongobuji Temple ▶ the Danjo Garan Temple in Mt. Koya ▶ the Ise Jingu Shrine ▶ Mikimoto Pearl Island in Shima ▶ the Ninja Museum ▶ Ueno Castle in Iga ▶ Bamboo Forest ▶ Kinkakuji Temple ▶ Sanjusangendo Hall in Kyoto View the Nachi waterfall in Kumano

JAPAN

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? SPIRITUAL JAPAN WITH TOKYO See page 28 for details

Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

TOKYO 3

KYOTO 3

OSAKA

BULLET TRAIN

Nabari

Mt. Koya

SHIMA

SHIRAHAMA

Pagoda and sakura cherry blossom

JPSJ.indd 1

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Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 15:32

ITINERARY 1 Arrive Osaka (2 Nights) Welcome to Japan. Upon arrival at Osaka Itami or Kansai International Airport, transfer by pre-booked airport shuttle service to your hotel. This evening join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception drink with appetisers. (WR) Hotel: Rihga Royal Osaka

2 Osaka e After breakfast start your city tour with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks which played a major role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. Although the present structure is a 1931 reconstruction, it’s nonetheless quite a sight, looming dramatically over the surrounding park, which has the bonus of being a great place to view cherry blossom in the springtime. Next visit the Abeno Harukas Observatory which 6 Shima ▶ Iga ▶ Nabari ▶ Kyoto (3 nights) standing at 300 metres is the tallest skyscraper d in Japan. The observation deck with large Travel to Iga and start the day with a visit to floor-to-ceiling glass panels all around offers the Ninja Museum, dedicated to the history of 360 degree panoramic views of Osaka. Later ninja and ninjutsu, an original form of warfare enjoy some free time for shopping in the Umeda developed mainly in the region. The museum’s district before returning to the hotel. This collection includes very old ninjutsu writings afternoon is yours at leisure or choose to join an analyzed scientifically along with ancient Optional Experience. (BB) weapons. Continue by exploring Ueno Castle constructed in the late 16th century served as the 3 Osaka ▶ Mt Koya ▶ Shirahama d seat of the local lords during the Edo Period. The This morning travel to Mt. Koya, a UNESCO castle tower was destroyed in a storm less than World Heritage Site and where the Shingon 50 years later and not rebuilt until 1935 when a Buddism sect was introduced in 805 by the local resident provided funding for the tower’s priest Kukai, who posthumously became reconstruction. Then enjoy a special Be My known as Kobo Daishi. Here visit the Kongobuji Guest lunch with a monk at Shorenji Temple Temple with its elegantly painted sliding doors in Nabari while learning about the history and and the Danjo Garan Temple, one of the first traditions of the region. After lunch continue complexes built by Kobo Daishi in Mt. Koya. to Kyoto for your overnight stay. (BB, BG) Later enjoy a Japanese style vegetarian lunch Hotel: New Miyako at a delightful monastery inn (shukubo) served by local monks, a Cultural Insight. Continue to 7 Kyoto Okunoin, Japan’s largest cemetery and the site Enjoy a late start this morning followed by a visit of Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum, set in an enchanted to Kinkakuji Temple; a UNESCO World Heritage forest of towering ancient cedar trees. Travel site famous for its Golden Pavilion reflecting to Shirahama and later enjoy dinner in a local beautifully in the water of the adjoining pond. authentic Japanese ‘Izakaya’. (BB, L, D) Lunch today is okonomiyaki; similar to a savoury Hotel: Nanki Shirahama Marriott pancake and made with egg, cabbage, soba noodles and meat, seafood or cheese and grilled 4 Shirahama ▶ Kumano ▶ Shima (2 Nights) in layers on a hot plate in front of you. This Today visit the Kumano area, the spiritual afternoon visit Arashiyama and the breath-taking heartland of Japan and discover the Kumano Bamboo Forest for a walk through the bamboo Kodo Pilgrimage Route, a UNESCO World groves. Continue on with a visit to Tenryuji Heritage Site. Choose to ascend Daimonzaka Temple which has one of the finest gardens in Hill either on foot or by coach to admire the Kyoto and scenic mountain views. (BB, L) Nachi Taisha Shrine, Seiganotoji Temple and the impressive Nachi waterfall which at 8 Kyoto e approximately 130 metres high is the tallest This morning visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple; waterfall in Japan. Continue your journey by a buzzing hive of activity perched on a hill visiting Hayatama Taisha one of Kumano’s most overlooking the city. It is one of Kyoto’s most important shrines that holds an important place popular and most enjoyable temples and a in Japanese mythology. The collection housed UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then head to in this small museum is impressive, with more Sanjusangendo Hall, a temple famous for its national treasures than some major museums. 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Continue to your hotel which for the next two Return to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon or nights is the Shima Kanko The Classic; famous choose to take part in an Optional Experience. for hosting the 42nd G7 summit in 2016 which This evening have a delightful Farewell dinner was attended by many top politicians including with your fellow companions and Travel Director President Barack Obama. This evening enjoy at a local restaurant. (BB, FD) dinner at the hotel. (BB, D) Hotel: Shima Kanko 9 Depart Kyoto The Classic Transfer by airport shuttle to Kansai 5 Shima ▶ Ise ▶ Shima d International Airport or Osaka Itami Airport for Enjoy a later start this morning before travelling your onward flight. (BB) to Ise to visit the Ise Jingu Shrine the most

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$610 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

JPSJ.indd 2

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Osaka

End Kyoto

PRICE PP

Twin Share

Start Osaka

End Kyoto

SU 18 MAR MO 26 MAR SU 25 MAR MO 02 APR

6095 6095

SU 17 JUN MO 25 JUN

6025

SU 01 APR MO 09 APR SU 08 APR MO 16 APR

6095 6095

SU 01 JUL MO 09 JUL

6095

SU 06 MAY MO 14 MAY

6095

SU 02 SEP MO 10 SEP SU 30 SEP MO 08 OCT

6095 6095

SU 03 JUN MO 11 JUN

6025

SU 07 OCT MO 15 OCT SU 14 OCT MO 22 OCT

6095 6095

Twin Share

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1250 p.p. Exceptions 03-Jun to 17-Jun-18: A$1020 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$305 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$165

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$152

JAPAN

revered Shinto sanctuary of great spiritual and historical significance. It consists of an inner and outer shrine and both are rebuilt from scratch every 20 years according to ancient Shinto tradition. Later meet some traditional free divers known as ‘Ama’, as seen in the James Bond movie ‘You Only Live Twice’. They are working women of the region who dressed all in white, dive into the sea without any diving equipment to catch shellfish and seaweed. Enjoy the fine flavour of the char-grilled local fresh seafood while listening to the stories told by the friendly and cheerful divers, a Cultural Insight. Later visit Mikimoto Pearl Island which is the place where, for the first time in the world, pearls were successfully cultured. Then enjoy some free time at a local mall for shopping and dinner at one of the many local and international restaurants. (BB)

SAVE A$125p.p.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are generally not required for Japan but please contact your travel agent for more information. Cherry Blossom season varies between different regions of Japan and is dependent on weather conditions so can also vary slightly each year. Late March to mid April are the most likely times to experience it on this trip but this is not guaranteed. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, upto-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

JOIN TRAFALGAR

TRAVEL TODAY, SUSTAIN TOMORROW

Amagoya Experience, Shima An ‘Ama’ is a professional female shellfish diver who dives into the sea without an oxygen tank or any other equipment to catch shellfish and seaweed. ‘Amagoya’ literally means the hut where the Ama divers take a rest with their colleagues after diving. Take the opportunity to enjoy the flavour of char-grilled local fresh seafood while listening to their animated stories.

SPIRITUAL JAPAN WITH TOKYO

WH Y EXP NOT L FUR ORE TH E R?

Extend your stay and travel by high-speed bullet train to Tokyo. Stay for three nights and enjoy a City Tour and a visit to Mt. Fuji; Japan’s highest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See page 28 for details.

G 27

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

SPIRITUAL JAPAN WITH TOKYO

12 days - 1 country

A$9175 PP*

FROM

Code: JPST

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b c SMALLER GROUPS

11 nights Hotel accommodation 18 meals 11 buﬀet breakfasts 3 lunches (including Be My Guest) 4 dinners On-trip transport All transport shown (including bullet train) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS As per Spiritual Japan itinerary plus: City Tour of Tokyo Visit the Tokyo Tower, Sensoji Buddhist Temple, the Imperial Palace Plaza, the 5thstation at Mt. Fuji View Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi

WHY ARE WE THE BEST?

Tokyo

Centuries-old tradition lives in harmony with the verve of a futuristic city – one where imperial palaces and tranquil temples co-exist with the quirky youth culture for which Tokyo is so famous. Delve into the city’s pulsating energy, honour its rituals and celebrate cultural treasures, from the ancient temple town of Asakusa to Akihabara’s electric hub. ITINERARY 1-8 Osaka ▶ Kyoto These days will operate as per days 1-8 of the Spiritual Japan itinerary on pages 26-27.

parts. Later make a stop at Ginza and take some free time for shopping and lunch. (BB)

11 Mt. Fuji After breakfast depart Tokyo for the Five Lakes District, dominated by majestic UNESCO listed 9 Kyoto ▶ Tokyo (3 Nights) Mt. Fuji. At 3,776 metres it is Japan’s highest This morning travel to Tokyo by high speed mountain and most recognisable icon. Ascend bullet train. On arrival check in to your centrally by road to 2,300 metres at the 5th Station located hotel. (BB) Hotel: Keio Plaza before taking a ride on the Kachikachiyama 10 Tokyo Sightseeing Ropeway, (both weather permitting) a cable car On your City Tour this morning visit the ride oﬀering spectacular views on a clear day observation deck at the Tokyo Tower which of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. Later return to opened in 1958 as a broadcasting mast and your hotel for a relaxing evening. (BB) at the time was the tallest building in Tokyo. 12 Depart Tokyo Make a stop at the Imperial Palace Plaza, a Transfer by airport shuttle service to Tokyo large park area in the centre of Tokyo from Narita or Haneda International Airport for your where the two bridges that form the entrance onward ﬂight. (BB) to the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace can be viewed. Continue to Asakusa and visit the Sensoji Buddhist temple. It is one of Tokyo’s most colourful and popular temples and has been rebuilt countless times since it was founded in 628, making it Tokyo’s oldest temple site. Visit Nakamise, a shopping street over 200 metres long that stretches from the outer gate to the temple’s second interior gate. Next drive through Akihabara which began its evolution into ‘Electric Town’ post WWII when the area became a black market for radio

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$933 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Osaka

End Tokyo

Twin Share

SU SU

18 MAR TH 29 MAR 9325 25 MAR TH 05 APR 9325

SU SU

01 APR TH 12 APR 9325 08 APR TH 19 APR 9325

06 MAY TH 17 MAY 9325

03 JUN TH 14 JUN 9175

PRICE PP Start Osaka

End Tokyo

Twin Share

9175

17 JUN TH 28 JUN

01 JUL TH 12 JUL

9325

SU SU

02 SEP TH 13 SEP 30 SEP TH 11 OCT

9325 9325

SU SU

07 OCT TH 18 OCT 14 OCT TH 25 OCT

9325 9325

Single Supplement (add to price above): Exceptions 03-Jun to 17-Jun-18:

A$1860 p.p. A$1760 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$466 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$215

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$233 SAVE A$175p.p.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are generally not required for Japan but please contact your travel agent for more information. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, up-to-date itineraries and Optional Experiences. d WR e BB L

Insider Experience Welcome Reception Free time Buﬀet Breakfast Lunch

RM Regional Meal BMG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

28-29.indd 1

12/06/2017 17:41

TRAVEL STYLE

HOKKAIDO DISCOVERY

5 days - 1 country

A$3995 PP*

FROM

Code: HOKK

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b c SMALLER GROUPS

4 nights Hotel accommodation 7 meals 4 buﬀet breakfasts 1 lunch 2 dinners On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic ﬂight) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests JAPAN

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tour of Sapporo Visit the Otaru Canal ▶ the herring mansion in Otaru ▶ an ‘Eco Farm’ in Furano ▶ the Sapporo Beer Museum See the colourful ﬂowers in Furano 3995

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start End Kyoto/Osaka Sapporo

Blue Pond Biei

ITINERARY 1

28-29.indd 2

Kyoto/Osaka ▶ Sapporo (2 Nights) This morning transfer to Osaka Itami Airport for your flight to Shin Chitose, the gateway to Hokkaido. Upon arrival meet your Travel Director and transfer to your centrally located 3 hotel in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido and Japan’s fifth largest city. Later join your Travel Director for a walk around Susukino which is the largest entertainment district in Northern Japan and is packed with stores, bars and restaurants. Enjoy an Izakaya (a typical Japanese gastro-pub) dining experience with a taste of Hokkaido’s famous fresh seafood. (D) Hotel: Keio Plaza Sapporo Sapporo Sightseeing ▶ Otaru ▶ Sapporo d Start your city tour of Sapporo with views of the Clock Tower; built in 1878 the clock has not missed tolling the hour for nearly 140 years and is considered to be the symbol of the city. In the eastern side of Odori Park, see the 147 metre high Sapporo TV Tower, similar in design to the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Continue your drive to the west of the city to visit Otaru, the old harbour city of Hokkaido with its beautifully preserved canal area and old buildings that date back to its glory days as a major herring centre. At Otaru Canal take a walk with a Local Specialist beneath the old Victorian style gas lamps that line this historic canal and learn all about Otaru before enjoying some free time for shopping and lunch. Stop at the Kitaichi Glass Factory to admire the beautiful and colourful glassware and later visit a large preserved herring mansion dating back to the end of the 19 th century where fishermen’s tools and living conditions are displayed. During the heyday of herring fishing, large herring mansions were built by wealthy fishermen to process the fish and as a residence for themselves and their employees. The herring fishing industry played a major role in the history of the city

and large fortunes were made by the leading fishing enterprises until the 1950s, when the herring stocks dramatically declined and the industry collapsed. Later return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. (BB) Sapporo ▶ Biei ▶ Furano (2 Nights) d e Today leave Sapporo behind and head for central Hokkaido and the town of Biei. With the dramatic mountains of the Daisetsuzan National Park as a backdrop, Biei is an artists and nature lover’s paradise. Visit the ‘Hokuseino-oka Observatory’ with its pyramid-shaped structure and enjoy the views of the splendid landscape. Continue your journey and head to the city of Furano. It has a somewhat surprisingly continental climate which fosters a burgeoning wine industry, producing award winning cheeses and enabling sprawling fields of lavender to spring to life. In Furano take some free time for shopping and lunch and later visit a local government certified organic ‘Eco Farm’ which produces wine, juices and various vegetables. Meet the farm owner and take a walk around with him to learn about the work they do whilst sampling some of their produce, a Cultural Insight . Later make a stop at a lavender farm to see the colourful display of flowers usually in bloom around June/July time. Continue to your hotel for dinner and your overnight stay. (BB, D) Hotel: New Furano Prince Furano ▶ Sapporo d e This morning travel back to Sapporo and visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a Cultural Insight . After the tour of the museum enjoy a beer tasting followed by lunch. Later check in to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure and make the most of your last day in Hokkaido perhaps with some shopping or further exploration of the city. (BB, L) Depart Sapporo Transfer by airport shuttle service to Shin Chitose airport for your onward flight. (BB)

Twin Share

PRICE PP Start End Kyoto/Osaka Sapporo

Twin Share

MO 26 MAR FR FR 30 MAR TU

30 MAR 3995 03 APR 3995

MO 25 JUN FR FR 29 JUN TU

29 JUN 03 JUL

4625 4895

MO 09 APR FR 13 APR MO 16 APR FR 20 APR MO 23 APR FR 27 APR MO 30 APR

FR TU FR TU FR TU FR

13 APR 17 APR 20 APR 24 APR 27 APR 01 MAY 04 MAY

3995 3995 3995 3995 3995 4895 4895

MO 09 JUL FR FR 13 JUL TU

13 JUL 17 JUL

4895 4895

MO 27 AUG FR FR 31 AUG TU

31 AUG 04 SEP

4625 4625

FR 04 MAY MO 14 MAY MO 21 MAY FR 25 MAY

TU FR FR TU

08 MAY 18 MAY 25 MAY 29 MAY

4895 4450 4450 4450

MO 10 SEP FR 14 SEP MO 24 SEP FR 28 SEP

FR TU FR TU

14 SEP 18 SEP 28 SEP 02 OCT

4450 4450 4450 4450

MO 08 OCT FR FR 12 OCT TU MO 15 OCT FR

12 OCT 16 OCT 19 OCT

4325 4325 4325

MO 11 JUN FR FR 15 JUN TU

15 JUN 4625 19 JUN 4625

Single Supplement (add to price above): Exceptions 26-Mar to 23-Apr-18: 08-Oct to 15-Oct-18: 27-Apr to 04-May-18: 29-Jun to 13-Jul-18: Young traveller discount:

: SAVE A$130

A$900 p.p. A$670 p.p. A$670 p.p. A$1130 p.p. A$1130 p.p.

Triple room discount:

SAVE A$80 p.p.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Flights: Prices include airfare and taxes for the flight from Osaka to Shin Chitose and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Flights: Onward departure flight from Shin Chitose at the end of the trip is not included. Cherry Blossom season varies between different regions of Japan and late April to early May are the most likely times to experience it on this trip but this is not guaranteed. Airport transfers included. See page 56 *All prices are per person, twin share.

TRIP COMBINATION Combine the Hokkaido Discovery with Splendours of Japan or Splendours of Japan with Hiroshima for the ultimate Japan experience.

09/06/2017 15:49

TRAVEL STYLE

TREASURES OF NORTHERN INDIA a b WITH MUMBAI

14 days - 1 country Code: RAMU

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

A$5195 PP*

FROM

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Ignite all your senses on this journey through the colourful, crowded bazaars, exquisite architecture and culinary splendour of India. Meet its vibrant people, see the beauty of the Taj Mahal and stay at a heritage resort with royal roots as you trace this magical land’s ancient traditions, unforgettable ﬂavours and beautiful landscapes.

c SMALLER GROUPS

13 nights Hotel accommodation 23 meals 13 buﬀet breakfasts 4 lunches 6 dinners (including Be My Guest) On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic ﬂight) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Enjoy dinner with a local family at their home in Jaipur

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Stay in a beautifully maintained heritage resort in Narlai, which was once a hunting lodge of Jodhpur’s Royal Family

CULTURAL INSIGHT Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi. Learn about the daily lives of the street children of Delhi and share their life stories. Choose between learning the art of Rajasthani Turban Tying or Kite Flying, a very popular pastime in Jaipur. Interact with the head of a noble family in Narlai and visit a Dhobi Ghat in Mumbai

LOCAL SPECIALIST Local Specialist in Jaipur

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

3 DELHI

JAIPUR 3

1 AGRA

2 NARLAI

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tours of Old and New Delhi ▶ Jaipur ▶ Udaipur ▶ Mumbai Visit Humayun’s Tomb ▶ Qutub Minar in Delhi ▶ Agra Fort ▶ the Taj Mahal in Agra ▶ City Palace ▶ Amber Fort in Jaipur ▶ the Prince of Wales Museum in Mumbai Cruise across Mumbai Harbour to Elephanta Island

2 UDAIPUR

INDIA

View the Palace of the Winds in Jaipur

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? 2 MUMBAI

Taj Mahal, Agra

RAMU.indd 1

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Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 17:28

ITINERARY 1

Delhi d e This morning begin your City Tour with a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi for a Cultural Insight . View the Red Fort before riding through the colourful Chandni Chowk market. See it come alive in the morning as the day’s trading begins. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan at a cost of 1 million rupees. Return to your hotel and enjoy some free time this afternoon. (BB) Delhi d After a late start this morning take a guided walking tour and discover the work done by the Salaam Baalak Trust, a non-profit organization that aims to provide a caring environment for street children, a Cultural Insight . Later walk through the bazaar of Paharganj where the locals do their daily shopping and after lunch in a local restaurant visit New Delhi which was designed and built by the British starting in the 1920’s. Visit two monuments from Delhi’s past - Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Later drive past the imposing India Gate and Parliament House. (BB, L) Delhi ▶ Agra Travel to Agra which in the 16th and 17th centuries was the capital of the grand Mughal Empire. Visit the impressive Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and walk through the chambers of this royal residence. On the drive through the city, witness the hustle and bustle of everyday India. (BB, D) Hotel: Double Tree by Hilton Agra ▶ Jaipur (3 Nights) Visit the spectacular Taj Mahal at sunrise when its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints. It was built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen and is believed to have taken 18 years to complete. Return to the hotel for breakfast and then depart for Jaipur, stopping for lunch en-route. Jaipur is known as the “Pink City” and is the capital of the colourful state of Rajasthan. (BB, L) Hotel: Hilton Jaipur Sightseeing d This morning visit the City Palace and the awe inspiring Jantar Mantar; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make a brief stop at the Palace of Winds, a spectacular five storied wonder constructed to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch city life unseen from the outside. This afternoon your choice of activities offers the opportunity to learn about ancient customs and pastimes in a Cultural Insight . Choose between Turban Tying or Kite Flying or, perhaps have a go at both! (BB) Jaipur d Visit the Amber Fort; a marvellous example of Rajput architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later learn about the tradition of hand block printing from a Local Specialist . The block-printed cottons of Jaipur have been renowned for their exquisite patterns and natural colouring for at least 250 years. Also visit a workshop where a Local Specialist demonstrates how the famous blue and green pottery of Jaipur is made. This evening enjoy

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RAMU.indd 2

TRIP PLANNER

Jaipur ▶ Narlai (2 Nights) d Travel to Narlai and on arrival check-in to your Authentic Accommodation; the Rawla Narlai, a beautifully maintained heritage resort which lies hidden away in a small picturesque village in the heart of the Aravalli Hills. It is a relaxing place to unwind with plenty of outdoor space and shaded nooks and crannies. (BB, L, D) Hotel: Rawla Narlai Authentic Accommodation

Start Delhi

Narlai d e Take part in a Jeep safari into the nearby countryside and perhaps see some deer and leopards in their natural habitat. Later take a walk around the village and get a glimpse of the traditional way people live there. Enjoy some free time during the afternoon and later meet one of the family members for some fascinating stories and history about the hotel and the locals, a Cultural Insight . At dinner this evening taste the ﬂavour of true Rajasthani royal hospitality at a 16th century old Stepwell. (BB, D)

10 Narlai ▶ Udaipur (2 Nights) This morning travel to Udaipur; set amongst rolling hills and shimmering lakes with fairy-tale palaces, it is considered by many to be the most beautiful and romantic city in Rajasthan. This evening enjoy a scenic boat ride on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. (BB) Hotel: Trident by Oberoi 11 Udaipur e Visit the City Palace complex which consists of several palaces, forming a single breathtaking façade overlooking Lake Pichola. Later wander through the markets and bazaars to get a feel for the city. Visit the Jagdish Temple built in 1651, ornamented with excellent carvings and a bronze figure of the Garuda. Proceed to the Garden of the Maids of the Honour constructed in the early 18th century and was used as a venue for royal parties. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy some free time or take part in an Optional Experience. (BB, L) 12 Udaipur ▶ Mumbai (2 Nights) d This morning fly to Mumbai and on arrival visit Dhobi Ghat, a unique feature of Mumbai and a Cultural Insight . The ‘dhobi’ is a traditional laundryman, who will collect dirty linen, wash it, and return it neatly pressed. See the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a historic railway station listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and later this afternoon take in views of Mumbai’s principal landmark, the Gateway of India, a huge archway on the water’s edge. This famous monument was built to commemorate the visit of the first ever British Monarch, King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. Visit the Prince of Wales Museum and afterwards enjoy a walk through the famous Crawford Market. (BB) Hotel: JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu

PRICE PP End Mumbai

PRICE PP Start Delhi

Twin Share

✚

21 JAN SA 03 FEB 5750

✚

SU SU

04 FEB SA 17 FEB 5750 ✚ 18 FEB SA 03 MAR 5750

✚

SU SU

04 MAR SA 17 MAR 5750 ✚ 18 MAR SA 31 MAR 5750

✚

SU SU

08 APR SA 21 APR 5195 22 APR SA 05 MAY 5195

SU SU

06 MAY SA 19 MAY 5195 20 MAY SA 02 JUN 5195 ●

19 AUG SA 01 SEP 5195

Twin Share

SU SU

14 OCT SA 27 OCT 28 OCT SA 10 NOV

5750 5750

SU SU

11 NOV SA 24 NOV 25 NOV SA 08 DEC

5750 5750

09 DEC SA 22 DEC 16 DEC SA 29 DEC 2018 SU 20 JAN SA 02 FEB

5750 6195

03 FEB SA 16 FEB 17 FEB SA 02 MAR

5775 5775

● SU 03 MAR SA 16 MAR 16 SEP SA 29 SEP 5195 ✚● SU 17 MAR SA 30 MAR 30 SEP SA 13 OCT 5750 ● SU 31 MAR SA 13 APR

5775 5775 5775

●

✚●

SU SU

End Mumbai

SU SU

Single Supplement (add to price above): Exceptions 08-Apr to 16-Sep-18: 16-Dec-18:

5775

A$1960 p.p. A$1400 p.p. A$2090 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$295 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$260

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$148 SAVE A$40 p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 11% discount on our standard single supplement. 3 2019 departures are subject to change of itinerary, price, discount and hotels. These will be conﬁrmed in June 2018. x Important information: Gala Dinner

included at the hotel on 24 December.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are required for India, please contact your travel agent for more information and advice. Flights: Prices include internal airfare and taxes for ﬂight: Udaipur to Mumbai and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, upto-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

JOIN TRAFALGAR

TRAVEL TODAY, SUSTAIN TOMORROW

13 Mumbai e This morning take a boat trip across Mumbai Harbour to see the rock-cut temples on Elephanta Island; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The labyrinth of cave temples represents some of India’s most impressive temple carvings. This afternoon have some free time or take part in an Optional Experience. This evening join your fellow guests and Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner. (BB, FD)

Salaam Baalak Trust, Delhi You’ll learn about the work being done by the Salaam Baalak Trust in the rehabilitation of street children and how your visit helps to support this.

14 Depart Mumbai Transfer to Mumbai Airport for your onward ﬂight. (BB)

Join ME to WE and extend your Trafalgar trip with the perfect, hands-on sustainable experience. The vibrant culture and traditions of rural India are featured on this transformative experience. See page 18 to learn more and visit www.metowe.com/trafalgar for the trip overview.

EZJZIZG

INDIA AND SRI LANKA

Arrive Delhi (3 Nights) Welcome to India. Upon arrival at Delhi Airport transfer to your hotel. This evening meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception with drinks and local appetisers. (WR) Hotel: Sheraton New Delhi

a Be My Guest dining experience with a local family. (BB, BG)

09/06/2017 17:28

S S S

TRAVEL STYLE

INDIA’S GOLDEN TRIANGLE WITH VARANASI

8 days - 1 country

A$3195 PP*

FROM

Code: INGTV

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Embark on a spiritual interlude with India. Candle-lit rituals on the River Ganges, palaces, forts and tombs, a riot of colour and vibrancy around every corner – your exploration of India’s Golden Triangle and centuries-old heritage takes you through the sandstone and marble halls of the Amber Fort, the pyramidal Palace of Winds and the exquisite Taj Mahal.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b c SMALLER GROUPS

7 nights Hotel accommodation 14 meals 7 buﬀets breakfast 2 lunches 5 dinners (Including Be My Guest) On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic ﬂights) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Enjoy dinner with a local family at their home in Jaipur

CULTURAL INSIGHT Take a rickshaw tour around the Old Delhi. In Varanasi, visit the rural life and observe the locals taking a morning bath in the holy water at the River Ganges

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tours of Delhi ▶ Varanasi ▶ Jaipur Visit the Jama Masjid ▶ the Humayun’s Tomb ▶ the Qutub Minar in Delhi ▶ the Sarnath in Varanasi ▶ the Agra Fort ▶ the Taj Mahal in Agra ▶ the Amber Fort ▶ City Palace Museum in Jaipur

2 DELHI

JAIPUR

View the Palace of Winds in Jaipur

AGRA 2

VARANASI

INDIA

Sadhu (Holy man), Varanasi

INGTV.indd 1

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Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 17:28

ITINERARY

village of Rameshwar where all activities are 7 Jaipur aimed at sustainable livelihood and community This morning visit the inspiring Amber Fort empowerment whilst ensuring the economic with its marvellous Rajput architecture listed growth of the under-privileged. Observe local as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The interior women making papad and pickles, doing of the fort has various royal halls decorated embroidery or making saris which they sell to with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work the local markets. Visit the village school and the complemented by exquisite wall paintings. Shanti Dham Ashram, a catholic prayer centre En route back to the hotel make a photo stop for the Christian society living in Varanasi. This at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five evening enjoy a boat ride on the River Ganges storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal to witness an Aarti ceremony, a very powerful facade and overhanging windows with latticed and uplifting spiritual ritual that uses fire as an screens, domes and spires. This afternoon offering. It’s made in the form of a small ‘diya’ continue your city tour with a visit to the City with a candle and flowers and a large number of Palace Museum to see an imposing blend of these are floated down the river, a truly magical traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art. Across sight. Later return to your hotel for dinner and the road from the palace is the famous Jantar your overnight stay. (BB, D) Hotel: Radisson Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of five observatories in India. This astronomical 4 Varanasi Sightseeing d e observation site built in the early 18th century Early this morning enjoy a scenic sunrise boat continues to provide accurate information to this trip on the holy River Ganges and see Varanasi day. Later this evening join your fellow guests slowly coming alive along the banks of the and Travel Director for a farewell dinner at a local river. Observe the locals taking a morning bath restaurant. (BB, FD) in the holy water while worshipping the rising sun, a Cultural Insight. Return to your hotel 8 Depart Jaipur for breakfast followed by a visit to Sarnath, Transfer to Jaipur airport for your onward flight one of the four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned or choose to travel to Delhi by coach, departing by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. The at 10:00 and arriving to Delhi at approximately Archaeological Museum at Sarnath is amongst 16:30. The coach will drop off at Delhi the most important in India and contains more International Airport and the Trafalgar post night than 6,800 sculptures and artefacts from the airport hotel; the Pride Plaza. (BB) rd th 3 century B.C. to the 12 century A.D. Return to your hotel for an afternoon and evening at leisure. (BB)

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$327 P. SAVE UP

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d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

INGTV.indd 2

FZGZEZJ

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Delhi ✚

End Jaipur

SA 06 JAN SA 13 JAN SA 27 JAN SA 03 FEB

✚

SA 10 FEB SA 17 FEB SA 24 FEB SA 03 MAR

✚

SA SA

✚

PRICE PP Start Delhi

Twin Share

3575 3575

SA SA

✚

SA 03 NOV SA SA 17 NOV SA

s l l

3575 3575

3195 3195

Twin Share

06 OCT SA 13 OCT 20 OCT SA 27 OCT

✚

10 MAR SA 17 MAR 3575 24 MAR SA 31 MAR 3575

SA 14 APR SA 21 APR SA 28 APR SA 05 MAY

End Jaipur

10 NOV 24 NOV

3575 3575

SA SA

01 DEC SA 08 DEC 22 DEC SA 29 DEC

3575 3795

SA SA

05 JAN SA 12 JAN 26 JAN SA 02 FEB

2018

3195 l SA 09 FEB SA 16 FEB 02 JUN SA 09 JUN 3195 ✚l SA 23 FEB SA 02 MAR

25 AUG SA 01 SEP 3195 l

22 SEP SA 29 SEP 3195

SA 12 MAY SA 19 MAY

✚l

3575 3575

SA SA

09 MAR SA 16 MAR 23 MAR SA 30 MAR

3595 3595 3595 3595 3595 3595

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1030 p.p. Exceptions 14-Apr to 22-Sep-18: A$690 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$163 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$140

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$82 SAVE A$40 p.p.

INDIA AND SRI LANKA

5 Varanasi ▶ Agra After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the 1 Arrive Delhi (2 Nights) short domestic flight to Agra. This splendid Welcome to India. Upon arrival at Delhi airport, city played a significant role in shaping India’s transfer to your hotel. This evening meet your history. Discover the heritage of architectural fellow guests and Travel Director for a Welcome and cultural splendour of the Golden Age. Reception with drinks and appetisers. (WR) This afternoon visit the impressive Agra Hotel: Sheraton New Delhi Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site which encompasses, within its 2.5-km-long enclosure 2 Delhi d walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. Start the day with a unique tour by rickshaw Although largely overshadowed by the Taj Mahal, around Old Delhi for a Cultural Insight. Drive the Agra Fort is one of the finest Mughal forts in past the impressive Red Fort, a UNESCO World India and at one time the country was governed Heritage Site considered to be the most opulent from within this powerful walled palatial city. As Fort and Palace of the Mughal Empire. Visit Jama you drive through the city witness the local life, Masjid the largest mosque in India and then markets and hustle and bustle of everyday India. stop at Chandni Chowk to discover the bustling This evening dinner is at the hotel and perhaps and colourful market of the old city. Continue choose to take part in an Optional Experience. along the ceremonial avenue Rajpath and past (BB, D) Hotel: Double Tree by Hilton the imposing India Gate and Parliament House. After lunch in a local restaurant venture into 6 Agra ▶ Jaipur (2 Nights) d New Delhi and admire the architectural design of Make an early start with a visit to the magnificent the buildings. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Taj Mahal, one the Seven Wonders of the World Sites from Delhi’s past. Humayun’s Tomb Fort is and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the one of the most magnificent Persian style tombs marble exterior reflecting rose and golden tints built in Delhi during the Mughal rule constructed at sunrise which then turn to dazzling white. The out of red sandstone standing in the centre of construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631 and gardens complete with pools linked by channels. it took 18 years and over 20,000 craftsmen to Later visit Qutub Minar, a tower with five distinct complete this monument in memory by an storeys and which at approximately 75 metres is emperor for his beloved queen. Legend has the tallest brick minaret in the world. Return to it that once construction was completed, the your hotel for an evening at leisure. (BB, L) emperor had the architects hands cut off, and blinded, so he would never be able to duplicate 3 Delhi ▶ Varanasi (2 Nights) d the structure anywhere else. After the visit return This morning fly to the city of Varanasi; situated to your hotel for breakfast and later this morning on the banks of the holy river Ganges, it is one depart for Jaipur, the capital of the colourful of the most colourful places on earth and the state of Rajasthan. This evening enjoy a Be My centre of Hindu religion. Later escape the hustle Guest dinner with a local family in their home. and bustle of the city for a glimpse of rural life (BB, L, BG) Hotel: Hilton in India, a Cultural Insight. Walk through the

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 12% discount on our standard single supplement. l 2019 departures are subject to change of itinerary, price, discount and hotels. These will be confirmed in June 2018. 5 Important Information: Gala Dinner included at the hotel on 24 December.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are required for India, please contact your travel agent for more information. Flights: Prices include internal airfare and taxes for flights from Delhi to Varanasi and Varanasi to Agra and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share.

JOIN TRAFALGAR

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Rameshwar Village, Varanasi You’ll discover the ‘Learn and Earn’ programme which helps to raise the economic and social status of local rural women.

COMPLIMENTARY DEPARTURE TRANSFER TO DELHI Airport transfers are available to Jaipur Airport on the last day of the trip or choose to take a complimentary coach transfer to Delhi.

12/06/2017 17:50

TRAVEL STYLE

WONDERS OF SRI LANKA

9 days - 1 country

A$3125

FROM PP*

Code: SRLA

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

From a rock fortress to a royal city, experience the flavours of Ceylon – a spicy sojourn crisscrossing the Cultural Triangle, tropical rainforests, tea plantations and centuries-old spiritual sites to the beat of the Beraya and surrounded by the warm hospitality of the Sri Lankan people.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b

8 nights Hotel accommodation 15 meals 8 buffet breakfasts 3 lunches (including Be My Guest) 4 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch with Ganga Akka at her family home in the village of Katugastota and learn about her lifestyle

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Stay at one of the oldest hotels in Sri Lanka, once a Dutch villa and meeting place for gentlemen of the colonial era, today restored back to its former glory in the heart of Colombo

CULTURAL INSIGHT Sample local snacks and experience the flavours and spices of Ceylon in Colombo. Meet a local villager and assist in preparing lunch. Learn the art of meditation with a Buddhist monk or take part in a traditional folklore dance lesson in the village of Habarana. Learn to become a tea taster at a local estate

LOCAL SPECIALIST in the villages of Habarana and Katugastota

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

SRI LANKA 2 SIGIRIYA

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tour of Colombo

KANDY 2 Gampola 2 COLOMBO 1 MT. LAVINIA

Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya

SRLA.indd 1

Visit the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya Temple in Colombo ▶ the Lion Rock at Sigiriya ▶ the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy TRAIN

1 NUWARA ELIYA

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Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 15:32

ITINERARY 1 Arrive Colombo (2 Nights) Welcome to Sri Lanka. Upon arrival at Colombo Airport transfer to your hotel. This evening join your Travel Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Reception with drinks and local appetisers. (WR) Hotel: Galle Face Authentic Accommodation 2

6 Kandy d e This morning depart the hotel by tuk-tuk and travel to the village of Katugastota to meet a Local Specialist, a senior from the village who will demonstrate how to play a beat or two on the ‘Beraya’ (a traditional drum). Ancient sources reveal that these drums were used for special Colombo Sightseeing d e occasions and have become an integral part Begin your City Tour this morning at Kelaniya of life in Buddhist Temples. Next take a walk Raja Maha Viharaya; one of the most sacred through the village to the home of a local family Buddhist worshipping places in Sri Lanka. Marvel for a special Be My Guest lunch. The family at its eastern architecture, remarkable frescoes lives in a small traditional house built in the late and learn of the many legends that surround 1950’s with a Kandyan style garden which has this religious site. See the Old Parliament many spice trees planted for their own personal House, the Town Hall and Independence Square use. The staple food of Sri Lanka is rice and before making a stop at the oldest Hindu this is eaten for lunch with a combination of Kovil in Colombo, Sri Kailawasanthan Swami spicy curries. Engage in conversation with the Devasthanam. This afternoon enjoy some free family to learn all about local life in the village time to relax, explore further or take part in before returning to Kandy for some free time. an Optional Experience. Later see a different This evening travel to a rural village and see a and more charming side of Colombo as you performance by a group of local school children, drive around the city by ‘tuk tuk’. Make a stop a Cultural Insight. (BB, BG) to sample some local snacks and experience 7 Kandy ▶ Gampola ▶ Nuwara Eliya d the flavours and spices of Ceylon, a Cultural This morning travel by train through Sri Lanka’s Insight, before returning to your hotel. (BB) tea country to Gampola, a fabulous way to see Colombo ▶ Sigiriya (2 Nights) d the hill villages and to observe the daily lives of This morning get a deeper insight into a rather the local people. See how Ceylon tea is made and simpler lifestyle as you leave the city behind gain an insight into becoming a discerning tea and head for the village of Horakelle. Take a taster on a Tea Factory tour, a Cultural Insight. walk around a tranquil garden surrounded by a Learn the art of picking the tender tea shoots coconut plantation, spices and fruit trees. A bit which is generally referred to as ‘plucking’. later meet a local villager and assist in preparing Take part in a tea plucking competition; it is not lunch, a Cultural Insight. Then continue on to as easy as it looks but is great fun! For lunch your next destination the Cultural Triangle and enjoy a Regional Meal of ‘lamprais’, rice boiled enroute visit the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. in stock accompanied by curry and baked in a It is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage banana leaf in the oven. Continue to Nuwara Sites in the country and renowned for its unique Eliya, dubbed the ‘Little England of Sri Lanka’ sculptures and large mural paintings (BB, L, D) and located in the misty hills of the island. The Hotel: Aliya Resort and Spa colonial atmosphere remains preserved and it resembles a British countryside complete with Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa Sightseeing rose gardens, hedges and red-roofed bungalows. This morning make an early start to avoid the (BB, RM, D) Hotel: Grand heat of the day and visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya, an ancient rock 8 Nuwara Eliya ▶ Mt. Lavinia d e fortress from the 5th Century which dominates This morning drive to the West Coast of Sri the jungle from all sides. Choose to climb to the Lanka for your overnight stay at the Mt. Lavinia, top of ‘Lion Rock’ or just go up halfway to the Authentic Accommodation, a premier colonial ‘Lions Paw’. Alternatively for anyone not feeling heritage hotel situated on a picturesque rocky energetic take a stroll around the gardens at the peninsula alongside a sandy beach. The story of base and admire the scenery. A bit later enjoy the Mt. Lavinia hotel began in the year 1805 when breakfast before continuing to Polonnaruwa Sir Thomas Maitland arrived on the island to which was once the site of Sri Lanka’s second assume duties as the second British Governor medieval capital. The landscape is studded and decided to build a grand country mansion with sites of well-preserved archaeological for himself. He apparently fell in love with a local importance. Return to your hotel for a relaxing girl, a dancer called Lavinia and they became evening or choose to take part in an Optional involved in a clandestine romance away from Experience. (BB) the disapproving eyes of the English society on the island. Lavinia’s name is remembered as Sigiriya ▶ Kandy (2 Nights) d e providing the inspiration for the name of the This morning your choice of activities gives you Governor’s house and it is believed that her two Cultural Insight experiences in the village descendants still live in the vicinity today. Enjoy of Habarana. Choose between taking part in a the rest of the afternoon at leisure before your traditional folklore dance lesson with a Local Farewell Dinner this evening with your Travel Specialist or visit a forest hermitage to see the Director and fellow guests. (BB, FD) Hotel: Mt. dwelling of a Buddhist monk and learn about Lavinia Authentic Accommodation the art of meditation. Continue your journey on to Kandy and on arrival check in to your 9 Depart Colombo hotel. Enjoy some free time this afternoon Transfer to Colombo Airport for your onward and this evening visit the Temple of the Tooth flight. (BB) where a sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined. At dusk observe a religious service

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$370 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

SRLA.indd 2

PRICE PP Start Colombo

PRICE PP

Twin Share

Start Colombo

SA 17 FEB SU 25 FEB

3275

01 SEP SU 09 SEP

3175

SA 17 MAR SU 25 MAR

3225

13 OCT SU 21 OCT

3175

✚

SA 21 APR SU 29 APR

3125

10 NOV SU 18 NOV

3275

✚

SA 19 MAY SU 27 MAY

3125

SA SA

08 DEC SU 16 DEC 22 DEC SU 30 DEC

3295 3725

End Colombo

Twin Share

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1120 p.p. Exceptions 01-Sep to 13-Oct-18: A$1050 p.p. 22-Dec : A$1270 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$185 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$160

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$92

INDIA AND SRI LANKA

TRIP PLANNER

(pooja) accompanied by traditional music and drumming. (BB) Hotel: Mahaweli Reach

SAVE A$165p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a discount up to 13% on our standard single supplement.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are required for Sri Lanka, please contact your travel agent for more information and advice. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, upto-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

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TRAVEL TODAY, SUSTAIN TOMORROW

Oruthota Village In a rural village near Kandy you’ll get to meet a group of local school children who will put on a cultural performance along with some of their teachers. Find out how your visit helps support the school and the children’s education.

RELAX ON THE BEACH!

WH Y EXP NOT L FUR ORE TH E R?

Extend your stay and enjoy a relaxing day or two on the sandy beach at the Mt. Lavinia hotel, Authentic Accommodation, or perhaps do some further exploration of the island. See page 55 for prices

E Z I Z G

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch

RM Regional Meal BG Be My Guest Dining

D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner 35

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

CLASSIC CHINA

10 days - 1 country

A$4495

FROM PP*

Code: CLC

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Follow in the footsteps of the ancients – up the ornate steps of the Forbidden City and to the ramparts of the Great Wall, snaking its way across the rolling countryside, and through the winding ancient alleys of Beijing’s hutongs to learn about Chinese traditions over a home-cooked lunch.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b

9 nights Hotel accommodation 17 meals 9 buffet breakfasts 5 lunches (including Be My Guest) 3 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic flights) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Visit a Chinese family in their home in one of the Hutong areas of Beijing to gain a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into their lifestyle

CULTURAL INSIGHT Indulge in a foot massage at the Foot Reflexology Centre and discover the traditions and techniques of dumpling making, after which you’ll get to taste them

LOCAL SPECIALIST in Xi’an and Shanghai.

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS

Great Wall Excursion

City Tour of Beijing ▶ Xi’an ▶ Shanghai

4 BEIJING

The Great Wall

Visit Tiananmen Square ▶ Forbidden City ▶ Temple of Heaven ▶ the Sacred Way in Beijing ▶ the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an ▶ the Jinmao Tower in Shanghai ▶ the Great Wall of China See local people practicing T’ai Chi in the morning ▶ the Shanghai Acrobats

CHINA

2 XI’AN

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Three Gorges Area

ze gt

SHANGHAI 3

er Riv

Poyang Lake

n Ya

Yuan River HONG KONG WITH MACAU 4 Day Optional Extension

Terracotta warriors

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Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 15:32

ITINERARY 1 Arrive Beijing (4 Nights) Welcome to Beijing. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in before meeting your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception drink and local appetisers. (WR) Hotel: Novotel Peace

with a skilled Local Specialist, or take a cycle tour around part of the ancient City Wall of Xi’an. Continue on to a local restaurant for a Cultural Insight; watch a demonstration in the art of making dumplings, and afterwards enjoy sampling these for lunch. There are 21 different kinds of dumplings with a variety of fillings and different ways of cooking them. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Then, visit the impressive 88 storey Jinmao Tower which at approximately 420 metres high is the eleventh tallest building in Asia and offers great views over the city. (BB, L) Hotel: Hyatt on the Bund

5 Beijing ▶ Xi’an (2 Nights) This morning fly to the city of Xi’an. Later visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the city’s most distinctive and outstanding landmarks and one of the Silk Road UNESCO listed sites. (BB) Hotel: Wyndham Grand Xi’an South

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

CLC.indd 2

✚

PRICE PP

Twin Share

Start Beijing

FR 23 MAR SU 01 APR

4495

FR 06 JUL SU 15 JUL

4495

FR 13 APR SU 22 APR FR 27 APR SU 06 MAY

4495 4495

FR 03 AUG SU 12 AUG

4495

FR 11 MAY SU 20 MAY FR 25 MAY SU 03 JUN

4495 4495

FR 07 SEP SU 16 SEP FR 14 SEP SU 23 SEP FR 21 SEP SU 30 SEP

4495 4495 4495

FR 08 JUN SU 17 JUN FR 22 JUN SU 01 JUL

4495 4495

FR 05 OCT SU 14 OCT FR 12 OCT SU 21 OCT FR 26 OCT SU 04 NOV

4495 4495 4495

End Shanghai

Single Supplement (add to price above):

Twin Share

A$1460 p.p

; SAVE up to A$188 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$180

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$94 SAVE A$30 p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 26% discount on our standard single supplement.

JOIN TRAFALGAR

TRAVEL TODAY, SUSTAIN TOMORROW

Primary school visit, Xi’an You’ll get to know the students and teachers at this little school and find out how your visit helps support their education in the local community.

WH Y EXP NOT L FUR ORE TH E R?

Make the most of your trip to China. Choose our exciting Classic China with Yangtze Cruise and Chengdu itinerary (featured on page 38) which follows on seamlessly from this sensational Classic China journey.

HONG KONG AND MACAU EXPERIENCE

7 Xi’an ▶ Shanghai (3 Nights) d This morning your choice of activities gives you the chance to participate in a T’ai Chi Class,

P. TO A$376 P. SAVE UP

✚

End Shanghai

YANGTZE CRUISE AND CHENGDU

6 Xi’an Sightseeing During term-time, meet the children and teachers at a local primary school. Perhaps learn a few words of Chinese from the children who in turn will be happy to practice their English. Afterwards, visit the legendary army of Terracotta Warriors and Horses in Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s subterranean tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For lunch enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Chinese noodles and later continue with a visit to a Jade factory. (BB, L)

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS

PRICE PP Start Beijing

CHINA

2 Beijing Sightseeing Begin your visit to this great capital city by exploring one of the world’s largest public areas, Tiananmen Square, home to the National Museum of China, the mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the Great Monument to the People’s Heroes. Pass through the south gate to the 8 Shanghai Sightseeing d magnificent Forbidden City, a 180 acre complex With a Local Specialist, take a stroll along of courtyards, palaces, pavilions and gardens. Shanghai’s famous ‘Bund’, the city’s renowned It served as the imperial palace for emperors waterfront, lined with former colonial buildings and their households for more than 500 years and modern sky-scrapers. Learn how marshland and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After was turned into one of the most important lunch continue to another UNESCO Heritage trading hubs in the modern world. Continue to Site - the stunning Temple of Heaven, visited by Old Shanghai, a little known treasure trove of the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties winding streets and vibrant markets. Despite for annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven. the rapid pace of development in the rest of the This evening, enjoy a succulent Peking Duck city, the established customs and lifestyle of Regional Meal - a must during any visit to Beijing. this area have remained relatively unaltered. (BB, L, RM) Enjoy some free time for lunch and shopping in the Old Town before continuing to visit a silk 3 Beijing and the Great Wall museum, a Cultural Insight. This evening enjoy Travel outside the city and look down upon the a performance by the world-renowned Shanghai Chinese countryside from your perch on top Acrobatic Troupe. (BB) of the Great Wall, which is actually a collection of fortifications built and rebuilt from the 5th 9 Shanghai e century B.C. to the 16th century, to defend against Today is yours to explore Shanghai further, do nomadic invaders like the Mongols. Walk the some last minute shopping or take an Optional Sacred Way to the remnants of the Ming Tombs, Experience to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town the once-lavish burial chambers of 13 emperors founded more than 1,700 years ago. In its heyday, of the Ming Dynasty. Both places are listed as Zhujiajiao was a bustling market town well known UNESCO World Heritage sites. (BB, L) throughout the country. Today, old historical buildings such as rice shops, banks, spice stores 4 Beijing Sightseeing d e and even a Qing Dynasty post office can still be Spend the morning at leisure, before embarking found when strolling down the ancient streets on a unique tour by rickshaw around the ancient and exploring the many bridges that crisscross its alleyways of the courtyard Hutong residences. canals. In the afternoon enjoy some free time back Stop at the home of a local family for a delicious in Shanghai before joining your travel companions Be My Guest lunch of traditional Chinese cuisine for a Farewell Dinner. (BB, FD) followed by a visit to a charming tea house, where a Local Specialist prepares and serves 10 Depart Shanghai tea, while explaining the historic tea making Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (BB) ritual. This afternoon indulge in a relaxing foot massage, a Cultural Insight, at the Foot Reflexology Centre. (BB, BG)

TRIP PLANNER

Extend your stay and take a trip to Hong Kong which also includes a visit to the former Portuguese colony, Macau (featured on page 53).

E Z J Z G

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

09/06/2017 17:28

TRAVEL STYLE

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

CLASSIC CHINA WITH a YANGTZE CRUISE AND CHENGDU b

17 days - 1 country

A$7325

FROM PP*

Code: CLCY

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

China’s exquisite natural splendour takes centre stage on this epic journey from the cityscapes of Beijing to Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, Shanghai to the meandering Yangtze River along whose bamboo and lotus blossom-clad gorges we sail through en route to an unforgettable encounter with the rare giant pandas of Chengdu.

16 nights Hotel accommodation 33 meals 16 buffet breakfasts 10 lunches (including Be My Guest) 7 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown (including bullet train and domestic flights) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES As per Classic China itinerary plus:

LOCAL SPECIALIST in Chengdu

CULTURAL INSIGHT

Learn about Sichuan cuisine at a cooking class in Chengdu and afterwards get to taste your creations

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS As per Classic China itinerary plus: City Tour of Chengdu

Great Wall Excursion

Cruise the Yangtze River

4 BEIJING

The Great Wall

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

CHINA XI’AN 2

Three Gorges Area Yichang Yangtze River

CHENGDU 3

SHANGHAI

BULLET TRAIN 4-NIGHT YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

Chongqing

Yangtze River

CLCY.indd 1

Poyang Lake

Yuan River

HONG KONG WITH MACAU 4 Day Optional Extension

Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 15:32

ITINERARY 1-9 Beijing ▶ Shanghai These days will operate as per days 1-9 of the Classic China itinerary on pages 36-37. 10 Shanghai ▶ Yichang ▶ Yangtze River Cruise (4 Nights) Today leave Shanghai behind as you transfer to the airport for your flight to Yichang. On arrival have dinner in a local restaurant before transferring to the port to embark on your Yangtze River cruise. (BB, D) Hotel: Victoria Selina (cruise ship)

16 Chengdu Sightseeing d e Today visit the Museum of Sichuan Cuisine and learn about traditional Sichuan cooking practices for a Cultural Insight. Have a go at crushing chilies into powder using a Qing Dynasty pestle and mortar, view ancient kitchenware, books and manuscripts faithfully 12 Yangtze River Cruise recording the history of Sichuan culinary After breakfast board a sampan to see a tributary cultures dating back more than 3,000 years. of the Yangtze River, the Shennv Stream, up close Visit Restaurant Alley to catch a glimpse into and personal. Return to the ship for lunch and the dining experiences of the past. Also see the for the long awaited breathtaking scenery of shrine of the Kitchen God to perhaps leave an the most revered part of the Yangtze River - the offering before trying your hand at cooking a 120km. known as the Three Gorges. (BB, L, D) few of the dishes under the guidance of the chef. Enjoy eating your creations for lunch before 13 Yangtze River Cruise returning to your centrally located hotel. The This morning take a shore excursion to visit afternoon is yours to relax, explore further or do Shibaozhai with its wooden temple on the top some last minute shopping. (BB, L) of a 200 metre tall cliff. Take the opportunity to have a bit of exercise by climbing up to the 17 Depart Chengdu temple via the red pavilion which leans against Transfer to Chengdu Airport for your onward the cliff and serves as a pathway. Return to the flight. (BB) ship to continue enjoying the stunning scenery and your last day on board. Spend a peaceful night docked at Chongqing where the cruise YOUR RIVER CRUISE SHIP finishes, ready for an early disembarkation the next day. (BB, L, D) Explore the Yangtze River in style on board 14 Chongqing ▶ Chengdu (3 Nights) d the Victoria Selina and stay in well-appointed After breakfast disembark the cruise in outside cabins with private balconies for Chongqing and take the high speed bullet train viewing the spectacular scenery of the gorges. to Chengdu - the hometown of the giant panda The ship is fully air conditioned with facilities and a city famous in China for its leisurely that include reading room, fitness area, gift pace of living. Later visit People’s Park (also shop, mini spa, copying and printing services, known as Renmin Park) for a stroll around and international cable television and internet some people watching, a Cultural Insight. and Wi-Fi access. Shipboard entertainment See how the locals spend their leisure time includes a range of activities linked to the playing mahjong, dancing, napping in a teaculture of China such as T’ai Chi lessons, house, practicing calligraphy with water on the calligraphy demonstrations and lectures pavement, enjoying a neck massage and even on Chinese history. Sail in comfort as you having their ears cleaned. The park features experience the scenery, natural history and several Chinese gardens, a beautiful lake, the culture of the Yangtze and at the end of the Railway Protection Movement Monument, and cruise enjoy the Captain’s farewell banquet. local tea houses. This evening perhaps choose to take part in an Optional Experience. (BB) Hotel: Crowne Plaza

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Beijing ✚

✚

PRICE PP

Twin Share

Start Beijing

FR 23 MAR SU 08 APR

7325

06 JUL SU 22 JUL

7325

FR 13 APR SU 29 APR FR 27 APR SU 13 MAY

7595 7595

03 AUG SU 19 AUG

7595

FR 11 MAY SU 27 MAY FR 25 MAY SU 10 JUN

7595 7595

FR 07 SEP SU 23 SEP FR 14 SEP SU 30 SEP FR 21 SEP SU 07 OCT

7595 7595 7595

08 JUN SU 24 JUN 7325 22 JUN SU 08 JUL 7325

FR 05 OCT SU 21 OCT FR 12 OCT SU 28 OCT FR 26 OCT SU 11 NOV

7595 7595 7595

FR FR

End Chengdu

Twin Share

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$2690 p.p. Exceptions 22-Jun to 06-Jul-18: A$2580 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$329 r Past guest discount:

Multiple trip discount:

SAVE up to A$164

CHINA

11 Yangtze River Cruise Start your morning with a leisurely cruise towards the world’s largest hydroelectric project, the Three Gorges Dam. Disembark for a tour around the colossal dam, which is designed to both generate power to fuel China’s economic growth and to control flooding on the Yangtze. Later observe this amazing feat of modern engineering, as you pass through its’ five level double lock system from the comfort of your ship. Witness the beautiful scenery passing on both shores as you sail through Xiling Gorge, the longest and the deepest of the Three Gorges. (BB, L, D)

rare animals which was established in 1987. It’s mission is to rescue and protect the endangered giant panda species which currently have a population of less than 2000. After lunch return to the city centre and visit the Wide and Narrow Alleys; two parallel pedestrian streets with 45 courtyards along them. One of Chengdu’s historical and cultural areas which dates from the Qing Dynasty, and is today a beautifully restored upscale entertainment and nightlife area with restaurants, teahouses, and stores selling local handicrafts and other keepsakes. Later continue to Jinli Old Street to be immersed in the lively local atmosphere. The buildings are modeled on the architectural style of a traditional old town in western Sichuan Province and exhibit an ancient charm. Stroll along the narrow street to find old-world stores, each with their own unique style, selling Shu Embroidery, lacquer products, handicrafts, calligraphies and paintings of celebrities. (BB, L)

: SAVE A$320

Young traveller discount:

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: This departure includes a 18% discount on our standard single supplement.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are required for China, please contact your travel agent for more information and advice. Flights: Prices include internal airfares and taxes for flights: Beijing to Xi’an, Xi’an to Shanghai, Shanghai to Yichang and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Yangtze River Cruise: Prices are based on a twin share superior cabin on the Promenade Deck of the Victoria Selina. Upgrades to Bridge Deck and to an Executive or Shangri-la Suite incur an additional supplement and are subject to availability. Prices and further details can be supplied on request Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, upto-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

HONG KONG AND MACAU EXPERIENCE

WH Y EXP NOT L FUR ORE TH E R?

Make the most of your trip to China and add on a stay in Hong Kong which also includes a visit to the former Portuguese colony, Macau (featured on page 53).

15 Chengdu Sightseeing d This morning join your Local Specialist for a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding; a non-profit research and breeding facility for giant pandas and other

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$658 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

CLCY.indd 2

E Z

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

J 39

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

COLONIAL SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA

12 days - 2 countries Code: HSMY

A$3995

FROM PP* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

A melting pot of religion and cultures assembled over millennia, from Buddhism to Catholicism, the Dutch to the Chinese. Explore the colonial heritage of Singapore through the bustling streets of Chinatown and Little India, wander along the river to Malacca’s Dutch Square and visit the cornerstone of the Malay-Chinese community represented by the seven-storey Pagoda of Rama VI.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b

11 nights Hotel accommodation 18 meals 11 buffets breakfast 2 lunches (including Be My Guest) 5 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Enjoy lunch with a local family in the village of Kampung Cantik, Malacca

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION In Georgetown stay in a stunning heritage hotel that was built in the 1920’s and originally housed traditional shophouses

CULTURAL INSIGHT In Singapore, visit Chinatown to learn about the Chinese immigrants and Little India for an insight into Indian culture and traditions. Enjoy some typical Peranakan tea time treats with a family in their home. In Malaysia, learn about rubber tapping and bamboo basket making. Visit a village inhabited by the ethic group ‘Orang Asli’

LOCAL SPECIALIST in Singapore, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands and Georgetown

Penang 3 GEORGETOWN

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

TANAH RATA 1

Cameron Highlands

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tour of Singapore ▶ Malacca ▶ Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA

Visit the Botanic Gardens in Singapore ▶ the Sultan Abdul Samad Building ▶ the Twin Tower Sky Bridge ▶ the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur ▶ the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple in Ipoh ▶ the Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang

2 KUALA LUMPUR

Cruise along the Malacca River View the Ubudiah Mosque ▶ the Iskandariah Palace in Kuala Kangsar

MALACCA RIVER CRUISE

2 MALACCA

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? 4 SINGAPORE 40

Lord Murugan Statue and Batu Caves

HSMY.indd 1

Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 15:32

ITINERARY

7 Kuala Lumpur d Leave behind the modern high-rise skyscrapers and wander the streets of a typical Malay village ‘Kampung Baru’. Try some Malaysian style sweets and cakes at local food stalls before venturing through the wet Chow Kit market. Later this morning travel outside the city to visit a village inhabited by the ‘Orang Asli’, an ethnic group which is widely regarded as being Malaysia’s original inhabitants, a Cultural Insight. Take a walk around the village with a Local Specialist and observe the local people weaving various handicrafts. Enjoy a local style lunch all cooked in bamboo before returning to Kuala Lumpur for an evening at leisure. (BB, L)

1 Arrive Singapore (3 Nights) Welcome to Singapore. Upon arrival, transfer to your centrally located hotel. This evening meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception. (WR) Hotel: Novotel Clarke Quay

Visit a typical Peranakan home and admire the many antiques and treasures worthy of any museum collection. The Peranakans are straits-born Chinese who are descendants of Chinese immigrants many of who married the local Malays in the region. Chat with the hosts to learn about their heritage and culture while enjoying some typical Peranakan tea time treats, a Cultural Insight. This evening see a demonstration on Chinese Calligraphy by a Local Specialist in Chinatown. Enjoy dinner at a local Chinese restaurant before walking through the narrow lanes of the Night Market. Later take a trishaw ride back to your hotel. (BB, D)

4 Singapore ▶ Malacca (2 Nights) e Say goodbye to Singapore as you head for the border with Malaysia and then on to your hotel in Malacca. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before taking a boat cruise along the Malacca River. Sail past historic buildings, old warehouses (godowns), churches and villages. (BB, D) Hotel: Casa del Rio

9 Cameron Highlands ▶ Georgetown (Penang) (3 Nights) d Today explore the Cameron Highlands which at 1542 meters above sea level is Malaysia’s most extensive hill station. Make a photo stop at a tea plantation before visiting a tea factory and meet a Local Specialist to gain an insight into how the tea leaves are processed to make the perfect cup of tea. En route to Penang visit the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple in Ipoh, a famous Chinese Buddhist Temple considered to be the largest cave temple in the country. Next make a stop at the majestic Ubudiah Mosque with its golden dome and also at the Iskandariah Palace, the official residence of the Sultan of Perak. Later drive over to Penang across the fourth longest bridge in Southeast Asia. (BB) Hotel: Penaga Authentic Accommodation

10 Georgetown d e This morning’s historical tour of Georgetown starts with a photo stop at Fort Cornwallis, where Captain Francis Light, the founder of the British colony in Penang, first landed in 1786. 5 Malacca d Continue to a local coffee shop where a Local Start the day with a walking tour of the historical Specialist will explain the traditional process of city of Malacca with a Local Specialist. See roasting the perfect coffee bean. Next visit Khoo Dutch Square which is surrounded by red Kongsi, a Chinese clan house before enjoying a painted buildings and reflects the history of trishaw ride around the town to view the many Malacca; the Dutch administration, the British colonial buildings. Visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion colonisation and the Chinese settlers. Proceed with a Local Specialist before returning to your to the top of Malacca Hill and then onwards hotel for an afternoon at leisure. (BB) along the river to Kampung Kuli to discover some traditional crafts. Later visit a local family home 11 Georgetown ▶ Ayer Itam ▶ Penang Hill in Kampung Cantik to enjoy your Be My Guest ▶ Georgetown e lunch followed by a walk around the village, with This morning visit the Kek Lok Si Temple in Ayer a Local Specialist. Learn about rubber tapping, Itam, a majestic Buddhist Taoist temple with its pass by quaint Malacca kampong stilt houses striking seven-storey Pagoda of Rama VI. Later and discover various exotic seasonal fruits ascend Penang Hill on a Swiss funicular railway before taking part in some fun activities with for breathtaking views, passing through hill the locals. (BB, BG) farms and the lush tropical jungle. The afternoon is free at leisure and this evening celebrate a 6 Malacca ▶ Kuala Lumpur (2 Nights) e wonderful trip with your travel companions at a Travel to the capital, Kuala Lumpur and on Farewell Dinner. (BB, FD) arrival visit the National Mosque, Independent Square, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and 12 Depart Georgetown the impressive Sky Bridge at the 88 storey Transfer to Penang International Airport for your high Petronas Twin Towers. Enjoy the rest of onward flight. (BB) the afternoon and evening at leisure. (BB) Hotel: Melia Kuala Lumpur

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$400 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

HSMY.indd 2

PRICE PP

Start End Twin Singapore Georgetown Share

SA 24 FEB WE 07 MAR

3995

SA 30 JUN WE 11 JUL

3995

SA 17 MAR WE 28 MAR

3995

SA 21 JUL WE 01 AUG

3995

SA 07 APR WE 18 APR SA 28 APR WE 09 MAY

3995 3995

SA 11 AUG WE 22 AUG

3995

SA 19 MAY WE 30 MAY

3995

SA 01 SEP WE 12 SEP

3995

SA 02 JUN WE 13 JUN

3995

SA 13 OCT WE 24 OCT

3995

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1550 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$200 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$190

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$100 SAVE A$140 p.p.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

2 Singapore d e Start your city tour from where it all began for colonial Singapore at the Raffles Landing Site; where Sir Stamford Raffles is believed to have first stepped ashore in 1819. Continue with a walk through the Colonial District and later see the former Parliament House, the Victoria Theatre and the Old Supreme Court Building. 8 Kuala Lumpur ▶ Batu Caves Discover the contrasts of Singapore with visits to ▶ Cameron Highlands d e Chinatown and Little India, a Cultural Insight. Drive into the countryside and make a short stop Chinatown has evolved since 1821 and was at the Selangor Pewter factory before continuing the area many Chinese immigrants headed for to the Batu Caves; one of Malaysia’s most iconic on arrival to the then British colony. Continue sights. En route to the Cameron Highlands with a visit to Little India to discover a district visit a cottage industry to observe a Local deeply rooted in the traditions of the Indian Specialist making bamboo baskets followed community. Later visit the Singapore Botanic by a photo stop at the Lata Iskandar Waterfall Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and take before continuing to Tanah Rata to check in at a walk through the National Orchid Garden. The your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is yours at afternoon is yours at leisure. (BB) leisure followed by dinner at the hotel. (BB, D) Hotel: Strawberry Resort Park 3 Singapore d

TRIP PLANNER

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are generally not required for Singapore and Malaysia but please contact your travel agent for more information. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, upto-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

JOIN TRAFALGAR

TRAVEL TODAY, SUSTAIN TOMORROW

Visit the Orang Asli, Kuala Lumpur You’ll meet the villagers in a local Orang Asli community who will demonstrate how to cook in bamboo and invite you to take part in a popular Aboriginal game known as ‘Jah re Noi’. Learn how your visit helps to sustain the community.

EXP NOT COLONIAL SINGAPORE L F UR ORE AND MALAYSIA TH E WITH BEACH STAY CODE: HSMP R? Extend your trip to 14 days and stay for two nights at the stunning beach-side hotel, the Golden Sands Resort Penang by Shangri-La. The hotel features three outdoor pools in beautifully landscaped gardens and is within walking distance of the local night market. Price from A$4350 per person in a twin share based on the following 14 day itinerary: Days 1-11: As per Colonial Singapore with Malaysia Day 12: Transfer from Georgetown to the beach resort of Batu Ferringhi. Day 13: At Leisure in Batu Ferringhi Day 14: Transfer to Penang International Airport for your onward flight. Additional nights also available, please see page 55 for details.

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

SPIRITUAL BURMA

L 8 nights Hotel accommodation 18 meals 8 buffet breakfasts 5 lunches 5 dinners (including Be My Guest)

The ornate beauty of Shwedagon Pagoda’s glistening golden spire lures you into a Hidden Journey through Burma, a fairy-tale land of sacred stupas, ancient traditions and spiritual reverence, which you will explore in some of the world’s holiest Buddhist sanctuaries as you delve into the depths of the rich culture and story of the country now known officially as Myanmar.

On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic flights) All transfers shown

9 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY Code: SBUR

A$3750 PP*

FROM

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

SMALLER GROUPS

YO UR INSID ER E XPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Join a local family in their home in New Bagan and gain insights into their day-to-day lives before sharing a family style meal and enjoying a traditional guitar performance

Sagaing

MANDALAY 2

Amarapura Mingun Kyaukgu Umin

RIVER CUISE RIVER CUISE

BAGAN

Heho

INLE LAKE

MYANMAR

CULTURAL INSIGHT Visit a Buddhist nunnery in the hills of Sagaing for lunch with the nuns who live there. Visit a local vineyard for wine tasting or take a guided walk to see locals making rice crackers and fishing nets. Visit a local market offering insight into the life of the ethnic Pa-O, Danu and Intha people

LOCAL SPECIALIST in Bagan, Inle Lake and Mandalay.

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

YANGON 2

YO UR INCLU DED SIGHTS City Tour of Yangon Visit Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon ▶ Ananda Temple in Bagan ▶ a Local Market at Inle Lake Two cruises along the Ayeyarwady River See Mingun Pagoda in Mingun, ‘leg rowers’ the Intha fishermen at Inle Lake

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews 42

Buddhist monk, Mingun

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Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

12/06/2017 17:54

1 Arrive Yangon (2 Nights) Welcome to Rangoon (Yangon). Upon arrival at the airport transfer to your hotel and this evening meet your fellow guests and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception drink with local appetisers. (WR) Hotel: Sule Shangri-La 2 Yangon Sightseeing d This morning, begin your walking tour in the colonial heart of the city. See the City Hall, the former Immigration Department, the High Court and the red brick General Post Office before continuing to the luxurious Strand Hotel, built in 1901, for a well-earned refreshment. Later take the opportunity to try ‘Mohinga’ for lunch at one of the city’s latest Tea Houses. It is considered to be the country’s National dish; a fish broth with noodles served with various accompaniments. In the afternoon meet the students and teachers at a local monastic school, a Cultural Insight before visiting the nearby Ngar Htat Gyi Pagoda with its huge sitting Buddha. Return to the hotel to relax before an evening visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda. Take part in an oil lamp lighting ceremony before enjoying the sunset over the glistening pagoda. (BB, L)

7 Inle Lake ▶ Heho ▶ Mandalay ▶ Ayeyarwady cruise to Mingun ▶ Mandalay (2 Nights) We transfer by boat to Nyaung Shwe and proceed to Heho Airport for our flight to Mandalay before boarding your own private boat to cruise up the Ayeyarwady River and in to the heart of the country to Mingun. This is a rare opportunity to witness first-hand local life along this mighty river – watch children cooling off in its waters and swinging from the hanging vines of trees, and see fishermen indulging in an afternoon snooze on their overturned long boats back from a busy morning’s activities on the water. Dodge 3 Yangon ▶ Bagan (2 Nights) d e the bamboo rafts and ferries weaving their way Fly to Bagan (formerly known as Pagan) where we up and down the river, its banks lined by beautiful visit the golden Shwezigon Pagoda, built by King golden stupas that emerge from the dense riverAnawrahta in the early 11th century. Continue to the front forest. We enjoy lunch on board before Ananda Temple, a whitewashed masterpiece of arriving to Mingun where visit the Mingun Bell, Mon architecture with four standing Buddhas. Later which at 87 tonnes is the world’s largest ringing a hands-on interaction with a Local Specialist bronze bell. Continue to the exquisite white sees us discover how lacquerware is produced Hsinbyume Paya on the banks of river, which rises in one of Bagan’s famous workshops. We return in seven terraces representing the seven mountain to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure and later, ranges around Mt. Meru. See the unfinished, we’ll watch the sun set at Bu Paya Pagoda before but mighty Mingun Pagoda, which was built to enjoying a Be My Guest dining experience be the world’s largest pagoda, but was never with a local family in their home. (BB, BG) completed due to local superstitions. Later, we Hotel: Aureum Palace board our boat to venture back downriver to Mandalay and check in to our hotel. (BB, L) 4 Bagan ▶ Set Set Yo Village ▶ Ayeyarwady Hotel: Mandalay Hill Resort Cruise ▶ Bagan d We set forth through the picturesque rural 8 Mandalay ▶ Amarapura ▶ Sagaing countryside to Sel Village where we will enjoy a ▶ Mandalay d Cultural Insight into how the villagers make This morning our first stop is a visit to Amarapura, soya paste and traditional wooden slippers. Our the City of Immortality, where we take a leisurely trip continues to Nga Thayouk where we’ll see how stroll along the U Bein Bridge, believed to be the local families make their traditional cooking pots, longest teak bridge in the world. We continue to before arriving in Set Set Yo village, famous for the hidden hilltop gem of Sagaing, once an ancient the centuries-old traditional top-knot hairstyle worn capital and today home to one of the greatest by its local children. We enjoy a picnic lunch in concentrations of monasticism in the world – the the picturesque village and proceed to Kyauk Gu hillside dotted with white, silver and gold pagodas U Min Temple, famous for its incredible, gigantic and monasteries. We enjoy a Cultural Insight Buddha statues and fine-square frescoes. We into the lives of the Buddhist nuns who live in board a boat and enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Sagaing and enjoy lunch in their company before Ayeyarwady river back to Bagan. (BB, L) making a stop at local workshops to witness the intricate creation of Kalaga tapestries and gold 5 Bagan ▶ Heho ▶ Inle Lake (2 Nights) leaf being beaten into paper-thin pieces by Local This morning, we fly to Heho, the gateway to Specialists. Gold leaf remains a feature on our beautiful Inle Lake, whose waters we explore journey through the hidden treasures of Mandalay on board our own private long-tail boats. We’ll as we visit the Mahamuni Pagoda, one of the most pass the busy village of Ywama with its tall teak spiritual sites in the country and observe local male houses on stilts and cruise to Indein, home to a devotees adding gold leaf to the already thick peaceful pagoda hill. Venturing along the covered layers of gold adorning the spectacular Buddha walkway lined with handicraft sellers, we walk up image. Our in-depth, intimate encounter with an to Shwe Inn Thein Paya, a complex of weatherundiscovered treasure has come to an end. Enjoy beaten 17th-18th century zedi, some of which have the last evening of your trip at a Farewell Dinner in been newly reconstructed. Later we travel by a local restaurant with new friends. (BB, L, FD) boat downstream to our hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. (BB, D) Hotel: Novotel Inle Lake

6 Inle Lake d As the sun rises over the waters of Inle Lake, we enjoy a Cultural Insight at a local market and observe the local Pa-O, Danu and Intha people

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS UP P. TO A$380 P. SAVE More great savings on page 21

TRIP PL AN NER PRICE PP Start Yangon

End Mandalay

PRICE PP Start Yangon

Twin Share

SA 13 JAN SU 21 JAN

4225

✚

WE 14 MAR TH 22 MAR SA 31 MAR SU 08 APR

4225 4225

✚

✚ ✚

SA 12 MAY SU 20 MAY WE 30 MAY TH 07 JUN

3750 3750

✚

WE 27 JUN TH 05 JUL

3750

End Mandalay

Twin Share

SA 04 AUG SU 12 AUG

3750

WE 26 SEP TH

04 OCT

3750

SA 06 OCT SU 14 OCT WE 24 OCT TH 01 NOV

4225 4225

WE 28 NOV TH 06 DEC

4225

22 DEC SU 30 DEC

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1240p.p.

; SAVE up to A$190 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$170

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$95

HIDDEN JOURNEY: SOUTHEAST ASIA

who visit the market to buy and sell goods. Traversing the tranquil waters of the lake we journey to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the holiest religious site in the area. Witness first-hand the extraordinary fishing prowess of the lake’s Intha fishermen, who row standing up with one leg wrapped around a single oar, leaving their hands free to manipulate their conical fishing nets. Then we participate in a hands-on cooking class with a Local Specialist where we prepare various traditional dishes and afterwards enjoy them together for lunch. This afternoon, your choice of activities gives you two Cultural Insight opportunities: Visit a local vineyard for wine-tasting or take a guided village walk. (BB, L, D)

ITINER ARY

SAVE A$20p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 50% discount on our standard single supplement.

f MORE ABO UT YO UR TRIP Visas are required for Burma (Myanmar), please contact your travel agent for more information and advice. Flights: Prices include internal airfares and taxes for flights: Yangon to Bagan, Bagan to Heho and Heho to Mandalay and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, up‑to‑date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

J O IN TR AFALGAR

TR AVEL TO DAY, SUS TA I N TO M O RROW

Oil Lamp Ceremony, Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon You’ll take part in a traditional oil lamp lighting ceremony with the locals at sunset and learn how your participation helps fund the pagoda’s upkeep. Monastic School Visit, Yangon You’ll visit a monastic school in Yangon where young monks and nuns study alongside the local children. Discover how your visit helps to support the school.

9 Depart Mandalay Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (BB)

Z J

d WR e BB L RM

Insider Experience Welcome Reception Free time Buffet Breakfast Lunch Regional Meal

BMG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

SBUR.indd 2

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

HIGHLIGHTS OF VIETNAM

12 days - 1 country

A$4125

FROM PP*

Code: CTVA

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Float on the sparkling emerald waters of Halong Bay on a traditional Vietnamese Junk. Glide past hidden islets, giant limestone karsts and colourful fishing villages, stopping only to gain insight into the lives of the local fishermen at Cua Van and to practice T’ai Chi in exquisite surroundings.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b

11 nights Hotel accommodation 22 meals 11 buffet breakfasts 8 lunches (including Be My Guest) 3 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic flights) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Enjoy lunch at one of the great remaining garden houses of Hue where you will gain insight into the lives of a local family and admire their fascinating collection of artefacts and mementos from the days of the former Royal Empire

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Stay on a traditional style Vietnamese Junk boat for an overnight cruise in Halong Bay

CULTURAL INSIGHT

HANOI 2

Visit Ho Chi Minh’s house. Visit the Cham museum to learn about the ancient Champa civilisation. Visit the colourful market of Hoi An. Visit the home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s. Join a Lantern Making Workshop or a Fishing Life Tour to learn about the lives of the local fishermen and have a go at casting your own fishing net

HALONG BAY 1

HALONG BAY CRUISE

LOCAL SPECIALIST in Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta.

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

HUE 2

Danang 3 HOI AN

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tour of Hanoi ▶ Hoi An ▶ Hue ▶ Ho Chi Minh City

CAMBODIA

3 SIEM REAP Mekong

River

HIGHLIGHTS OF VIETNAM WITH CAMBODIA See page 49 for details

My Tho

Street seller, Vietnam

CTVA.indd 1

VIETNAM

3 HO CHI MINH CITY

Mekong Delta

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum ▶ the Temple of Literature in Hanoi ▶ the Imperial Citadel in Hue ▶ the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City See Red Beach in Danang

WHY ARE WE THE BEST? Read honest and unedited reviews from our guests at: www.trafalgar.com/reviews

Start

End

Overnight stays

Sightseeing stops

09/06/2017 15:57

ITINERARY 1

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$382 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

CTVA.indd 2

EZJZCZG

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Hanoi

4250

Start Hanoi SA

14 JUL WE 25 JUL

4125

03 MAR WE 14 MAR 4250 ✚ 24 MAR WE 04 APR 4250

11 AUG WE 22 AUG

4125

SA 15 SEP WE 26 SEP SA 29 SEP WE 10 OCT

4125 4250

SA 13 OCT WE 24 OCT

4250

SA 17 NOV WE 28 NOV

4250

SA 08 DEC WE 19 DEC SA 15 DEC WE 26 DEC

4250 4250

✚ SA 07 APR WE 18 APR SA 21 APR WE 02 MAY

4250 4250

✚ ✚

SA 05 MAY WE 16 MAY SA 19 MAY WE 30 MAY

4125 4125

✚

SA 16 JUN WE 27 JUN

4125

End Twin Ho Chi Minh City Share

✚

SA 20 JAN WE 31 JAN SA SA

PRICE PP

End Twin Ho Chi Minh City Share

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1400 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$191 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$180

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SOUTHEAST ASIA

7 Hoi An ▶ Hue (2 Nights) This morning depart Hoi An by boat to the Arrive Hanoi (2 Nights) Red Bridge Cooking School to learn about the Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival, transfer traditional ways of preparing and cooking to your hotel before meeting your Travel Vietnamese food. Then savour the dishes you Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome have prepared before returning to Hoi An. This Reception with drinks and local appetisers. (WR) afternoon, drive over the picturesque Hai Van Hotel: Melia Hanoi Pass stopping en-route at Red Beach where the American Marines first landed in Vietnam during Hanoi Sightseeing d the war. Continue to Danang for a visit to the Start the day with a visit to the historic Ho Chi Cham Museum before arriving in Hue for your Minh Mausoleum, an imposing monument where overnight stay. (BB, L) Hotel: Imperial the preserved body of ‘Uncle Ho’ resides. A short walk from here is Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts, a 8 Hue Sightseeing d e Cultural Insight, where he lived intermittently Start from your hotel with a cyclo ride to the between 1958 and 1969. Continue to the Temple Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage of Literature, the first university for the sons of designated site. From here drive to Thien Mandarins, for an overview of Hanoian culture. Mu Pagoda, Hue’s best-preserved religious After lunch enjoy a walking tour through the Old monument before taking a local dragon boat Quarter to embrace the bustling local life. This trip along the Perfume River to the house of evening is yours at leisure or choose to take part the former Princess Ngoc Son for a Be My in an Optional Experience. (BB, L) Guest lunch. Chat with a family member to get a glimpse of their life in this historic house Hanoi ▶ Halong Bay Cruise d and enjoy lunch prepared by the family. This This morning, drive through green rice paddy afternoon enjoy some free time or take part in an fields to Halong Bay to board your Authentic Optional Experience. (BB, BG) Accommodation, a traditional style Vietnamese junk boat. Cruise among the hundreds of islets 9 Hue ▶ Ho Chi Minh City (3 Nights) of Halong Bay, a remarkable UNESCO World This morning, fly to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Heritage listed site. After lunch on board travel known as Saigon and upon arrival enjoy some by small boat to visit the Tien Ong Cave and free time before lunch at KOTO restaurant; Cua Van Fishing Village, where the people a non-profit social enterprise that provides live in floating houses. Head back to the boat training to disadvantaged young people in and participate in a cooking demonstration the hospitality industry. Next transfer to Dong with the chef or enjoy sunset on the top Khoi Street for the start of a walking tour. See deck before dinner and a peaceful overnight the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville. stay. (BB, L, D) Hotel: Jasmine Cruise Wander up to Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Authentic Accommodation Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue to visit the Halong Bay ▶ Hanoi ▶ Danang ▶ Hoi War Remnants Museum for a vivid glimpse of the An (3 Nights) d war through the eyes of the locals. Conclude the Begin your day as the locals do during a morning day at Ben Thanh market before arriving to your T’ai Chi class with a Local Specialist, on the hotel. (BB, L) Hotel: Sofitel Saigon Plaza deck of the traditional Junk boat. Then it is time for an early morning swim at a natural 10 Mekong Delta d white sandy beach. If you are feeling energetic, Today take a day trip to My Tho situated in the perhaps take an uphill walk to have one last Delta of the Mekong River. Transfer to a small view of scenic Halong Bay before your drive to sampan boat and discover the maze of small Hanoi Airport to catch your flight to Danang. canals before stopping for a Regional Meal of On arrival transfer to your hotel in Hoi An. (BB) delicious Mekong Delta specialities. Take a short Hotel: Royal Hoi An walk along village roads to visit the house of a former soldier, a Local Specialist who survived Hoi An Sightseeing d e fighting the Khmer Rouge. Now he and his This morning enjoy a walking tour around the wife live on making rice paper and have some ancient town of Hoi An. Today this ancient fascinating stories to tell. Later return to Ho Chi UNESCO World Heritage designated town Minh City for an evening at leisure. (BB, RM) boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianised streets, narrow lanes and a colourful market, a 11 Ho Chi Minh City d e Cultural Insight. See the old merchants houses Today travel by private speedboat to visit the Cu and the 400 year old Japanese Covered Bridge. Chi Tunnels, an immense network of connecting Later visit Tra Que Organic Village for a Cultural underground tunnels started in 1948 to protect Insight. Spend some time helping local farmers the Viet Cong guerrillas from the French air and and learning about their daily working routines, ground sweeps. The tunnels also served as living before indulging in a relaxing foot massage. After quarters and housed hospitals, food and weapons lunch return to Hoi An for the rest of the day and caches. Tour the underground compounds evening at leisure. (BB, L) and gain an understanding of the history of the tunnels. Return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy Hoi An d e some free time this afternoon. Later join your This morning enjoy some free time to relax at the fellow travellers for a visit to the home of the hotel or explore Hoi An further. In the afternoon former American Ambassador to South Vietnam your choice of activities gives you two Cultural in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, a Cultural Insight opportunities: to join a Lantern Making Insight followed by your Farewell Dinner. Workshop or a Fishing Life Tour (subject to (BB, L, FD) weather conditions) to learn about the lives of the local fishermen and have a go at casting your 12 Depart Ho Chi Minh City own fishing net. (BB) Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (BB)

SAVE up to A$95 SAVE A$0 p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 18% discount on our standard single supplement.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are generally required for Vietnam but please contact your travel agent for more information. Flights: Prices include internal airfares and taxes for flights: Hanoi to Danang and Hue to Ho Chi Minh City and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Important Information: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum closed September to mid November. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, upto-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Jasmine Luxury Junk boat Stay and dine onboard Jasmine Cruises’ traditionally built Authentic Accommodation, as you float among the magnificent limestone islands of Halong Bay. The original junk boats were developed during the Han Dynasty and were used as seagoing vessels as early as the 2nd century AD.

HIGHLIGHTS OF VIETNAM WITH CAMBODIA

WH Y EXP NOT FUR LORE TH E R?

Delve deeper into the culture of this region by extending your trip to see the unmissable sights of Cambodia. Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Angkor Wat supported with the knowledge of a renowned Khmer scholar, a Local Specialist. See details on page 49.

09/06/2017 15:57

TRAVEL STYLE

TREASURES OF THAILAND

11 days - 1 country

A$3895

FROM PP*

Code: CSOT

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Capture the spiritual soul of Old Siam – a journey from the colourful streets of Bangkok to the sacred spaces of Chiang Mai. You’ll visit the terracotta-coloured ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and enjoy a northern Thai-style lunch with the Saiwangjit family in their wooden Thai stilt house to learn about the traditions of their Tai Lue tribe.

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

a b

10 nights Hotel accommodation 23 meals 10 buffet breakfasts 8 lunches (including Be My Guest) 5 dinners

c SMALLER GROUPS

On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic flight) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Join the Saiwangjit family who live in a wooden Thai stilt house for a traditional northern Thaistyle meal

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Relax at your charming hotel with its exotic Lanna style architecture, perfectly positioned across from Tha Pae Gate in Chiang Mai’s Old Town

CULTURAL INSIGHT

CHIANG RAI 3

Learn the secrets of Thai cooking and visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients. Stop at a coconut palm sugar plantation and discover how the farmer extracts the sap from the palm trees to be turned into sugar. Take a thrilling ride across wooden viaducts offering fantastic scenery along the River Kwai. Visit Lumpini Park in Bangkok and join the locals in their daily T’ai Chi practice. Enjoy a traditional Thai massage in the grounds of Wat Pho, a centre for traditional Thai massage

TREASURES OF THAILAND WITH GOLDEN TRIANGLE See page 48 for details

LOCAL SPECIALIST

CHIANG MAI 3

in Bangkok

Lampang

d 2 SUKHOTHAI

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

THAILAND

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS City Tour of Bangkok ▶ Chiang Mai

Ayutthaya KANCHANABURI 2 Damnoen Saduak

3 BANGKOK

SIEM REAP 3

TREASURES OF THAILAND WITH CAMBODIA See opposite page for details

CAMBODIA

Visit Wat Pho Temple ▶ the Grand Palace in Bangkok ▶ Damnoen Saduak floating market ▶ the ancient city of Ayutthaya ▶ Sukhothai Heritage Park See the Bridge over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi

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Floating market

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ITINERARY 1 Arrive Bangkok (3 Nights) Welcome to Bangkok. Transfer to your centrally located riverside hotel and relax before meeting your Travel Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Reception drink with local appetisers. (WR) Hotel: Royal Orchid Sheraton

city which was once the 2nd most important ancient capital of Old Siam, built after the fall of Sukhothai. It was founded in 1350 and was one of the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan urban areas, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then travel back to Bangkok for your flight to Sukhothai. This evening during dinner experience an authentic Thai cultural dance in an open-air theatre at the hotel. (BB, L, D) Hotel: Legendha Sukhothai Resort

5 Kanchanaburi Sightseeing d 10 Chiang Mai e This morning visit the famous Hellfire Pass, a Spend the morning at leisure or choose to join section of the Thailand-Burma Railway. It was built an Optional Experience. Later enjoy a visit at during WWII under very difficult conditions and Wat Doi Suthep one of Thailand’s most sacred said to have resembled hell on earth. After lunch temples and observe the chanting of the monks board the train for your Cultural Insight, a thrilling at sunset; a magical experience. This evening join ride across wooden viaducts offering fantastic your fellow companions and Travel Director for scenery along the Kwai River before experiencing a a delightful Farewell Dinner at a traditional Thai walk over the wooden viaduct. Dinner this evening restaurant located next to the river. (BB, FD) is at a local restaurant. (BB, L, D) 11 Depart Chiang Mai 6 Kanchanaburi ▶ Ayutthaya Transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport for ▶ Sukhothai (2 Nights) your onward flight. (BB) After breakfast leave Kanchanaburi and travel to Ayutthaya to visit the remains of this historic

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS P. TO A$377 P. SAVE UP

More great savings on page 21

d Insider Experience WR Welcome Reception e Free time

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PRICE PP Start Bangkok

PRICE PP

End Chiang Mai

Twin Share

Start Bangkok

End Chiang Mai

SU 21 JAN WE 31 JAN

3975

SU 04 MAR WE 14 MAR

3975

SU 08 APR WE 18 APR

3895

✚

SU 20 MAY WE 30 MAY

3895

✚

SU 17 JUN WE 27 JUN

3895

SU 15 JUL WE 25 JUL

3895

✚

Twin Share

SU 12 AUG WE 22 AUG

3895

SU 30 SEP WE 10 OCT

3895

SU 14 OCT WE 24 OCT

3895

SU 18 NOV WE 28 NOV

3995

SU 16 DEC WE 26 DEC

4095

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$1150 p.p. Exceptions 21-Jan to 04-Mar-18: A$1200 p.p. 16-Dec-18: A$1300 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$188 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$180

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SOUTHEAST ASIA

2 Bangkok Sightseeing d For the early risers, start your day with a visit to Lumpini Park to join the locals and learn the basic principles of T’ai Chi, a Cultural Insight. 7 Sukhothai Sightseeing Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely start to the day Start the day with a visit to the Sukhothai before joining your fellow travellers on your City Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour, starting with a visit to Bangkok’s most of the other, much larger ancient capital of well-known fruit and flower market, Pak Klong Thailand founded in 1238. See thousands of Talad before continuing to the Grand Palace. The years of history in this extensive and elaborate most famous building in the palace grounds is park and find the temple with the 15 metre Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), seated Buddha secreted away amongst the regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in trees. Your choice of exploring the large area by Thailand. Afterwards visit Wat Pho, Bangkok’s bicycle or on the internal tram which services the oldest temple, which features the largest historical park. This afternoon go off the beaten reclining Buddha in Thailand. While there enjoy a track with a visit to the home of a local family. traditional Thai massage, a Cultural Insight, in Learn how to make amulets which are important the temple’s massage centre. (BB, L) to many Thais and thought to protect the owner from harm. (BB, L) 3 Bangkok d e Today learn the secrets of traditional Thai recipes 8 Sukhothai ▶ Chiang Mai (3 Nights) d in a cooking class with a Local Specialist located Depart early this morning and travel to the in a charming colonial style house. Before the village of Natonchan where the community start of the class visit a local market to buy started an eco-tourism project. Interact with the fresh ingredients. Discover the exotic fruits and local people, meet one of the villagers to learn vegetables found in Thailand that will be used to about gymnastic doll making and the typical prepare the meal, a Cultural Insight. Later enjoy ‘mud soaked clothes’ worn by the villagers, the various exciting dishes you have prepared. a Cultural Insight. The local woven cotton Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure or opt clothes are soaked in mud to protect them from to join an Optional Experience. (BB, L) fading. Continue the journey north and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant followed by a stop in 4 Bangkok ▶ Damnoen Saduak Lampang and a visit to the unique temple of Wat ▶ Kanchanaburi (2 Nights) d Prathat Lampang Luang. Later visit the ‘Friends Make an early start this morning to travel to the of the Asian Elephant’ Hospital a foundation that famous floating market at Damnoen Saduak where cares for wounded elephants before continuing the colourfully clad merchants paddle along the on to Chiang Mai. (BB, L) Hotel: De Naga congested canals in sturdy canoes, laden with Authentic Accommodation fresh fruit and vegetables to sell to shoppers on the banks. En route make a short stop at a coconut 9 Chiang Mai Sightseeing d palm sugar plantation and discover how the farmer This morning visit the temple of Wat Suan Dok extracts the sap from the palm trees to eventually and take part in a talk with a local monk about be turned into sugar, a Cultural Insight. After lunch Buddhism, a Cultural Insight. Meet the children in a local restaurant discover the Thailand-Burma and teachers at a local school before continuing Railway Museum, a facility dedicated to presenting to a small village nearby for your Be My Guest the history of the famous railway line. It was built experience. The family will welcome you to during WWII by the Imperial Japanese army, using their typical stilt house for a northern Thai style Allied prisoners of war alongside Asian labourers. lunch. Later visit the handicraft villages in the Continue with a visit to the War Cemetery, the Sankamphaeng district of Chiang Mai where final resting place for over 6,000 allied prisoners all the traditional crafts such as the famous of war. (BB, L, D) Hotel: Dheva Mantra umbrella and fan making can be found. (BB, BG)

TRIP PLANNER

SAVE up to A$94 SAVE A$35 p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 16% discount on our standard single supplement.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are generally not required for Thailand but please contact your travel agent for more information and advice. Flights: Prices include internal airfare and taxes for flight: Bangkok to Sukhothai and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, up‑to-date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

EXP NOT TREASURES OF FUR LORE THAILAND WITH TH E R? CAMBODIA CODE: CSOC Discover more about Khmer history and culture while exploring Angkor Wat. See page 49 for details of our three night programme in Siem Reap, Cambodia which can be booked to follow on seamlessly from our Thailand itinerary. Price from A$5175 per person in a twin share based on the following 14 day itinerary: Days 1-10: As per Treasures of Thailand Day 11: Fly from Chiang Mai to Siem Reap Days 12/13: Sightseeing as per days 13/14, page 49 Day 14: Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport

EZIZGZJ

BB Buffet Breakfast L Lunch RM Regional Meal

BG Be My Guest Dining D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner

09/06/2017 15:32

TRAVEL STYLE

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

TREASURES OF THAILAND WITH THE a GOLDEN TRIANGLE b

14 days - 1 country

A$5250 PP*

FROM

Code: CSOG

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

SMALLER GROUPS

13 nights Hotel accommodation 29 meals 13 buﬀet breakfasts 11 lunches (including Be My Guest) 5 dinners On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic ﬂight) All transfers shown Maximum 26 Guests

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS As per the Treasures of Thailand itinerary plus: City Tour of Chiang Rai Visit the unique white temple of Wat Rong Khun ▶ the village of Banyafu ▶ Wat Phra Kaew in Chiang Rai ▶ the Don Sao Island Market in Laos See the Clock Tower in Chiang Rai

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES

Akha Women

ITINERARY

the past century. Later return to your hotel in Chiang Rai. (BB, L)

1-10 Bangkok ▶ Chiang Mai These days will operate as per days 1-10 of the 14 Depart Chiang Rai Transfer to Chiang Rai Airport for your onward Treasures of Thailand itinerary on pages 46-47. flight. (BB) 11 Chiang Mai ▶ Chiang Rai (3 Nights) d Depart this morning for Chiang Rai and en route visit an Ahka village, a Cultural f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Insight . The Akha are known for their bright headdresses and are among the poorest of Thailand’s ethnic minorities. Visit Doi Tung Visas are generally not required for Thailand a pilgrimage site for Thai, Shan and Chinese but please contact your travel agent for more Buddhists and once a cultivating site for information and advice. opium. The Doi Tung Development Project Flights: Prices include internal airfare and was initiated by the late Princess Mother of taxes for flight: Bangkok to Sukhothai and are Thailand to help the struggling local people accurate as of 1st June 2017. to educate and empower themselves to be Airport transfers included. See page 56 for economically self-reliant. Take a stroll through details. the beautifully landscaped flower garden at the villa. Make a brief stop at the unique white Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. temple of Wat Rong Khun before continuing *All pric es are per person, twin share. to Chiang Rai and your hotel for a relaxing Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. evening. (BB, L) Hotel: The Legend Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. 12 Chiang Rai d Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, Today start the day with a City Tour of Chiang up-to-date itineraries and Optional Experiences. Rai visiting some of its amazing sights like the Clock Tower and Wat Phra Kaew. Afterwards visit the little known village of Banyafu where the houses are made of wood and bamboo and the Lahu hilltribe people live their lives according to their traditions, a Cultural Insight . (BB, L) 13 Chiang Rai d This morning visit Chiang Saen, the former capital of the first Thai Lanna Kingdom. Travel by boat on the Mekong River towards the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge. Stop in Laos and visit the Don Sao Island Markets, which have an abundance of local handicraft s. After lunch visit the Hall of Opium, situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle, which provides an excellent Cultural Insight into the opium trade, so prevalent in this area over

As per the Treasures of Thailand itinerary plus:

CULTURAL INSIGHT See the Akha, Lahu hilltribe people, visit the Doi Tung Development Project, the Hall of Opium

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Bangkok

End Chiang Rai

PRICE PP Start Bangkok

Twin Share

21 JAN SA 03 FEB 5375

04 MAR SA 17 MAR 5375 ✚

✚ ✚

08 APR SA 21 APR 5250

20 MAY SA 02 JUN 5250

17 JUN SA 30 JUN 5250

15 JUL SA 28 JUL 5250

End Chiang Rai

Twin Share

12 AUG SA 25 AUG

5250

30 SEP SA 13 OCT

5250

14 OCT SA 27 OCT

5250

18 NOV SA 01 DEC

5425

16 DEC SA 29 DEC

5595

Single Supplement (add to price above): Exceptions 21-Jan to 04-Mar-18: 16-Dec-18:

A$1500 p.p. A$1600 p.p. A$1800 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$268 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$250

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$134 SAVE A$60 p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 12% discount on our standard single supplement.

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TRAVEL STYLE

YOUR TRIP AT A GLANCE

HIGHLIGHTS OF VIETNAM WITH CAMBODIA

15 days - 2 countries Code: CTVC

a b

A$5250 PP*

FROM

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

14 nights Hotel accommodation 27 meals 14 buﬀet breakfasts 9 lunches (including Be My Guest) 4 dinners On-trip transport All transport shown (including internal ﬂights) All transfers shown

YOUR INCLUDED SIGHTS SOUTHEAST ASIA

As per the Highlights of Vietnam itinerary plus: Visit Angkor Wat ▶ Angkor Thom ▶ Terrace of the Elephants ▶ Siem Reap Old Town ▶ Artisans d’Angkor ▶ Wat Damnak ▶ the temples of Ta Prohm ▶ Banteay Srei

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES As per Highlights of Vietnam plus:

CULTURAL INSIGHT Witness the revival of traditional Khmer craft smanship at the Artisans D’Angkor training sc hool

Rice Fields

ITINERARY 1 ▶ 11 Hanoi ▶ Ho Chi Minh These days will operate as per days 1-11 of the Highlights of Vietnam itinerary on pages 44-45.

14 Angkor Sightseeing e 12 Ho Chi Minh City ▶ Siem Reap Start the day with a visit to two other UNESCO (3 Nights) listed sites - Angkor Thom the ancient royal Transfer to the airport for the short city of the Khmer Empire and its centrepiece, international flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. the Bayon Temple. Continue to the Terrace On arrival check in to your hotel. (BB) of the Elephants, which served as a platform Hotel: Le Meridien from where the King could welcome back his victorious army. Next head to the picturesque 13 Angkor Wat and Siem Reap temple of Ta Prohm which was used as the Sightseeing d location for the film ‘Tomb Raider’. The This morning, visit Angkor Wat, a UNESCO magnificent tree roots have merged with the World Heritage Site and one of the most temple remains over the years, giving the important religious monuments in the world, feeling of a forgotten city. Return to Siem with a renowned Khmer Scholar, a Local Reap and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Specialist . Take a stroll through the elaborate This evening complete your trip in style with carved hallways of Angkor Wat, as the Khmer a Farewell Dinner accompanied by traditional Empire is brought to life through the scholar’s Apsara Dancing. (BB, FD) explanations, of the various stories contained in each of the bas reliefs and murals. Next 15 Depart Siem Reap head to Banteay Srei temple which is one of Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for Angkor’s most significant structures. Made of your onward flight. (BB) red sand-stone, its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings and it is in an amazing state of preservation. Make a stop for lunch JOIN TRAFALGAR at a local Khmer restaurant, before taking a TRAVEL TODAY, SUSTAIN TOMORROW guided walk around the fascinating corners of the Old Town of Siem Reap. Visit Artisans Artisans D’Angkor, Siem Reap d’Angkor, for a Cultural Insight into the You’ll explore the workshops and discover how training school and shop which creates job your visit helps the artisans preserve Khmer opportunities for young people living in crafts and create jobs for young people in rural rural areas, while at the same time reviving areas. traditional Khmer craft smanship. Cross the picturesque Siem Reap River to Wat Damnak, a living temple, and receive a special blessing from one of the monks, which includes the tying of a blessed string around the wrist. Walk back across the Pedestrian Bridge to the Old Market and be lead through the maze of undercover stalls selling fruits, vegetables, meat, fish and household goods, as well as an array of local handicraft s and souvenirs.

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LOCAL SPECIALIST

In the evening perhaps take an Optional Experience sunset cruise on Tonle Sap Lake to see Siem Reap’s famous ﬂoating village and to observe the lifestyle of the people living on the lake. (BB, L)

in Angkor Wat

TRIP PLANNER PRICE PP Start Hanoi

End Siem Reap

PRICE PP

Twin Share

20 JAN SA 03 FEB 5395 ✚

SA SA

03 MAR SA 17 MAR 5395 ✚ 24 MAR SA 07 APR 5375 ✚

SA SA

07 APR SA 21 APR 5375 21 APR SA 05 MAY 5375

✚ ✚

SA SA

05 MAY SA 19 MAY 5250 19 MAY SA 02 JUN 5250

✚

16 JUN SA 30 JUN 5250

Start Hanoi

End Siem Reap

Twin Share

5250

14 JUL SA 28 JUL

11 AUG SA 25 AUG

5250

SA SA

15 SEP SA 29 SEP 29 SEP SA 13 OCT

5250 5395

13 OCT SA 27 OCT

5395

17 NOV SA 01 DEC

5395

SA SA

08 DEC SA 22 DEC 15 DEC SA 29 DEC

5395 5475

Single Supplement (add to price above): Exceptions 15-Dec-18:

A$1590 p.p. A$1670 p.p.

; SAVE up to A$229 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$220

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$115 SAVE A$0 p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 18% discount on our standard single supplement.

f MORE ABOUT YOUR TRIP Visas are required for Vietnam and Cambodia, please contact your travel agent for more information and advice. Flights: Prices include internal airfares and taxes for ﬂights: Hanoi to Danang, Hue to Ho Chi Minh City and Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. 49

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TRAVEL STYLE

L 6 nights Hotel accommodation 10 meals 6 buffet breakfasts 1 lunch (including Be My Guest) 3 dinners

SECRETS OF CAMBODIA Embrace the timeless charm and generous spirit of Cambodia on this Hidden Journey through ancient lost capitals, remote rural villages and extraordinary natural wonders, peeling back the layers of centuries-old culture and heritage through beautiful choreographed performances and traditional cooking customs and superstitions.

On-trip transport All transport shown (including domestic flight). All transfers shown

7 days - 1 country Code: SOCA

A$1995

FROM PP* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

SMALLER GROUPS

YO UR INSID ER E XPERIENCES BE MY GUEST Catch a rare glimpse into traditional Khmer life and cuisine, enjoying lunch with a local family in their traditional 80-year-old wooden house on their dragon fruit farm

CULTURAL INSIGHT

LUANG PRABANG 4

SECRETS OF CAMBODIA WITH LAOS See page 52 for more details

LAOS

Participate in a Khmer cooking class, visiting the market to find ingredients and learning about local food superstitions before learning how to prepare Khmer specialities

LOCAL SPECIALIST in Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat.

HIDDEN TREASURE Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

SIEM REAP 4

CAMBODIA 2

PHNOM PENH

YO UR INCLU DED SIGHTS City Tour of Phnom Penh ▶ Siem Reap Old Town Visit Wat Phnom ▶ the Royal Palace ▶ Cheung Ek Killing Fields in Phnom Penh ▶ Angkor Wat ▶ Terrace of the Elephants ▶ Ta Prohm ▶ Banteay Srei

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Cambodian Khmer Dancers

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ITINER ARY

UP P. TO A$187P. SAVE More great savings on page 21

PRICE PP Start End Phnom Penh Siem Reap

Twin Share

WE 14 MAR TU 20 MAR

2095

WE 18 APR TU 24 APR

1995

✚

WE 16 MAY TU 22 MAY

1995

✚

WE 27 JUN TU 03 JUL

1995

WE 25 JUL TU 31 JUL

1995

✚ ✚

✚

Twin Share

WE 22 AUG TU 28 AUG

1995

WE 26 SEP TU 02 OCT

2095

WE 24 OCT TU 30 OCT

2095

WE 28 NOV TU

2095

04 DEC

Single Supplement (add to price above): A$520p.p.

; SAVE up to A$93

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$90

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount: Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$47 SAVE A$30 p.p.

HIDDEN JOURNEY: SOUTHEAST ASIA

1 Arrive Phnom Penh (2 Nights) A riot of colours, smells and swarm of scooters on 5 Angkor and Siem Reap d Phnom Penh’s busy streets signal the start of our Our intimate encounter with a lost empire Hidden Journey – an Indochina gateway to the continues today, as we uncover other iconic sites spiritual heart of Cambodia. Upon arrival, transfer of the ancient abandoned city of Angkor that to your hotel and this evening meet your Travel have been devoured by the Cambodian jungle. Director and fellow adventurers for a Welcome We explore its ancient ruins in the company of Reception with drinks and appetisers. (WR) saffron-clad monks and mischievous monkeys Hotel: Sokha Phnom Penh that clamber up and over the roots of centuries2 Phnom Penh Sightseeing d old trees that have carved their way deep into Exotic flavours are yours to explore this morning on the Great City’s walls. We begin our day with an in-depth City Tour with a Local Specialist a visit to the fortified Angkor Thom, seeing such which begins with a visit to Wat Phnom temple iconic sites as the Terrace of Elephants, the Royal from which the city takes its name. Delve into the Enclosure and the Temple of Bayon with its giant legend of Lady Penh who discovered the four smiling faces of Buddha that have watched statues of Buddha deposited on this tree-covered over the heart of the lost city for centuries. We hill. The golden spires of the Royal Palace venture underneath the dense tree canopy to the and Silver Pagoda with its bountiful national crumbling, moss-covered ruins of the Buddhist treasures are our next stop on this exploration temple of Ta Prohm, which featured as the location of Cambodia’s capital, which includes a visit to for the film ‘Tomb Raider’, exploring its towers the National Museum, where we gain a unique courtyards and corridors to uncover the intricate insight into Khmer art and sculptures from different stone reliefs that are shielded by the surrounding periods throughout Khmer history. Delving deep foliage. The fresh flavours of Khmer cuisine are into the turbulent, terrifying history of the Khmer explored during a Cultural Insight cooking Rouge years, we travel along a dusty road to the class in Siem Reap, where we amble through outskirts of the city to visit the former school turned the vibrant local market and learn about cooking torture, interrogation and execution centre of Tuol customs, ingredients and food superstitions, before Sleng. The history of that time is depicted in the joining a local chef at his restaurant to learn thousands of S-21 portraits of victims that are on how to craft and cook various peppery Khmer display at the Museum of Genocide, providing specialities. After the class, share your creation an insight into the horrors of Cambodia under Pol with your travel companions over dinner. (BB, D) Pot’s rule. Our journey back in time continues on to the Cheung Ek Killing Fields, a memorial built to 6 Angkor and Peak Sneng village The terracotta-hued walls of Banteay Srei Temple commemorate the 17,000 victims who died under are our first stop today – a red sandstone temple the reign of the Khmer Rouge. Spend the evening dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, whose 10th at leisure. (BB) century delicate carvings of women with lotus 3 Phnom Penh ▶ Siem Reap (4 Nights) flowers are said to have been too delicate to A leisurely start to your morning gives you an have been carved by a man, hence its name, opportunity to soak up the sights and sounds “Citadel of the Women”. Deep in the heart of the of the city before transferring to the airport for Cambodian countryside, we come face-to-face your flight to Siem Reap, the gateway to the with the rich Khmer culture, joining a local family in magnificent temples of the lost city of Angkor. their 80-year-old wooden house on their dragon Spend the afternoon exploring Siem Reap’s fruit farm for a Be My Guest lunch of traditional busy streets on a walking tour, including a visit dishes freshly cooked with locally grown produce. to the labyrinthine Old Market where the locals Our interaction with the local Khmer villagers spend their early mornings shopping for fresh continues as we visit their local school and chat to fruit, vegetables and spices. Wander past some of the children who join us on our rambling the busy stalls and sample authentic Khmer through the village to see how they spend their soups and freshly baked baguettes, a remnant day-to-day lives. Enjoy a unique opportunity to of the country’s French heritage. Tonight, we learn some of the time-honoured craft traditions watch enthralled by the energy, emotion and such as weaving Cambodia’s national hats made enthusiasm of the talented Phare performers who from palm leaves, or folding Lotus flowers into use theatre, music, dance and modern circus delicate works of art, a Cultural Insight. Our arts to tell uniquely Cambodian stories. (BB) in-depth interaction with Cambodia has sadly Hotel: Le Meridien come to an end. We return to our hotel later and join our Travel Director and fellow expeditioners for 4 Angkor Wat and Siem Reap Sightseeing d e a Farewell dinner. (BB, BG, FD) Venturing deep into the Cambodian jungle and through a pyramid-shaped gateway into an 7 Depart Siem Reap ancient world, serene stone faces watch over us Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (BB) as we cross the stone causeway suspended over a moat into the spiritual heart of the ancient lost city of Angkor. Enjoy a rare opportunity to gain in-depth insight into the fascinating ancient empire of the Khmer, as we join a renowned scholar and Local Specialist who will bring to life the stories behind the intricate carvings and murals of celestial nymphs and mythical serpents along the abandoned hallways of Angkor Wat. We leave the mystical lotus-shaped temple towers behind us for your choice of activities, visiting the National Museum to explore the history, art and culture of the Khmer civilisation, with collections dating as far back as the 9th century, or learning about the

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS

TRIP PL AN NER

delicate traditions of silk making at a local silk farm. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure or join an Optional Experience. (BB)

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 23% discount on our standard single supplement.

f MORE ABO UT YO UR TRIP Visas are required for Cambodia, please contact your travel agent for more information and advice. Flights: Prices include internal airfares and taxes for flights: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (and Siem Riep to Luang Prabang if extending to Laos) and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. Airport transfers included. See page 56 for details. Wi Fi: See page 58 for details. *All prices are per person, twin share. Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Visit www.trafalgar.com for availability, up‑to‑date itineraries and Optional Experiences.

J O IN TR AFALGAR

TR AVEL TO DAY, SUS TA I N TO M O RROW

Peak Sneng village, Siem Reap You’ll meet the local villagers, visit the school and discover some traditional Cambodian crafts. Learn how your visit helps to sustain the local community. Phare Circus, Siem Reap You’ll watch a spectacular show at the Phare Circus; a social project for young disadvantaged Cambodians who are given the opportunity to train in visual arts and circus skills. Your visit helps to support the project.

SECRE TS OF C A MBO D IA WITH L AOS

WHY N E X P L OT ORE FURT H ER?

Explore more of South East Asia by extending your trip to stay in the magical town of Luang Prabang, Laos. Nestling in a slim valley shaped by lofty, green mountains the peaceful town is endowed with a legacy of ancient red-roofed temples and French-Indochinese architecture. See details on page 52.

E Z J Z G 51

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TRA

SECRETS OF CAMBODIA WITH LAOS

11 days - 2 countries

17 meals 10 buffet breakfasts 2 lunches (including Be My Guest) 5 dinners

Code: SOCL

A$3795 PP*

FROM

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

On-trip transport All transport shown (including internal flights). All transfers shown

YO UR INSID ER E XPERIENCES As per Secrets of Cambodia itinerary plus:

AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION

Hong K

Stay at a historical house built by the royal family in 1938.

SMALLER GROUPS

PER PE

For more Insider Experiences, look for this symbol

Ho A wa of K part

Ho This of V bee the view a Di lunc sett Islan now to e

Ho This Spe its c reve cha tall the enc in a abo visit spe step and

Dep Tran

YO UR INCLU DED SIGHTS ITINER ARY 1 ▶ 6 Phnom Penh ▶ Siem Reap These days will operate as per 1-6 of Secrets of Cambodia itinerary on pages 50-51. 7

Siem Reap ▶ Luang Prabang (4 Nights) d e Your morning visit to Wat Damnak will give you a rare opportunity to take part in a private blessing ceremony where a sacred thread will be tied around your wrist to protect against evil spirits. Later, we visit Artisans d’Angkor for a Cultural Insight into the exciting revival of Khmer arts and crafts at a training school, which creates job opportunities for young people living in rural areas. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before your flight to Luang Prabang. On arrival, meet your Travel Director and continue to our hotel where we share a traditional Lao dinner. (BB, D) Hotel: Villa Maly Authentic Accommodation Luang Prabang Sightseeing d This morning, we embark on a walking tour around the ancient royal capital of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Royal Palace Museum to uncover the history and culture of Laos, and Wat Xiengthong, the so-called ‘Temple of the Golden City’, whose tree of life mosaic and rare Buddhist deities make it one of the most beautiful temples in Laos. Later we board a traditional long-tail boat bound for the mystical Pak Ou Caves. We pass Laotian villages and wooden canoes bobbing by the shore attached to bamboo poles before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant and then coming face to face with thousands of Buddha icons that fill the limestone caves. Boarding our long-tail boat, we cruise back to Luang Prabang stopping en route at Ban Muang Keo village for a Cultural Insight into the tradition of lao-lao brewing in the dark earthenware jars that seem to flood the tiny village. (BB, L) Luang Prabang Sightseeing d e Before the city comes to life, join the locals who Pak Ou Caves, Laos

52-53.indd 1

As per Secrets of Cambodia itinerary plus:

rise before dawn to pay their alms to hundreds of saffron-robed monks and then follow their journey down to the bustling morning market. If you’re feeling energetic, climb the winding steps up Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the countryside before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely start to the day before joining your fellow travellers for a visit to the Friends Visitor Centre, a local non-profit community project, to learn about the work done at the Friends Lao Hospital for Children. Return to your hotel for a leisurely afternoon or take part in an Optional Experience. (BB) 10 Luang Prabang Sightseeing e This morning, we drive south towards one of Luang Prabang’s most spectacular natural sites, the Kuang Si Waterfall. En route, we stop at Phou Si market to watch the local Laotians trade their fresh produce and at the Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre for a demonstration by local craftswomen, a Cultural Insight. On arrival at Kuang Si National Park witness rescued Asian bears playing and feeding at the Asian Bear Rescue Centre. We then enjoy a leisurely walk and see the main fall which has a 60-metre cascade that collects in turquoise blue pools as it flows downstream. This evening we join our Travel Director and new friends for a Lao-inspired Farewell Dinner. (BB, FD) 11 Depart Luang Prabang Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (BB)

J O IN TR AFALGAR

TR AVEL TO DAY, SUS TA I N TO M O RROW

Friends Visitor Centre, Luang Prabang You’ll learn how your visit helps support the work being done at the Friends Lao Hospital for Children. Ock Pop Tok, Luang Prabang You’ll learn about the mission of this social enterprise to elevate the profile of locally produced textiles and to increase economic opportunities for the artisans.

Visit Wat Damnak ▶ Artisans D’Angkor in Siem Reap ▶ the Royal Palace Museum ▶ Kuang Si Waterfall in Luang Prabang

TRIP PL AN NER PRICE PP Start Phnom Penh

End Luang Prabang

PRICE PP Start Phnom Penh

Twin Share

WE 14 MAR SA

24 MAR 4075

WE 18 APR SA

28 APR 3795

✚

WE 16 MAY SA

26 MAY 3795

✚

WE 27 JUN SA

07 JUL 3795

WE 25 JUL SA

04 AUG 3795

✚ ✚

✚

End Luang Prabang

Twin Share

WE 22 AUG SA

01 SEP

3795

WE 26 SEP SA

06 OCT

4075

WE 24 OCT SA

03 NOV

4075

WE 28 NOV SA

08 DEC

4075

Single Supplement (add to price above):

A$1330p.p.

; SAVE up to A$175 r

Multiple trip discount:

: SAVE A$160

Triple room discount:

Past guest discount:

Young traveller discount:

SAVE up to A$88 SAVE A$160 p.p.

9 Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a 20% discount on our standard single supplement.

TRIP

Daily depa

Departure

f MORE ABO UT YO UR TRIP

02 Jan to 0

06 Jan to 0

29 Sep to 3

Visas are required for Cambodia and Laos, please contact your Travel Agent for more information. Flights: Prices include internal airfares and taxes for flights: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, Siem Reap to Luang Prabang and are accurate as of 1st June 2017. *All prices are per person, twin share.

09/06/2017 17:28

Hon and be b any T

TRAVEL STYLE

HONG KONG AND MACAU EXPERIENCE

TRAVEL STYLE

SINGAPORE EXPLORER

4 days Merlion Park

Hong Kong Skyline FROM

A$2325

Code: HONGA

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

A$1550

3 nights

5 meals

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Hong Kong (3 Nights) A warm welcome to Hong Kong. On arrival transfer to your hotel located in the heart of Kowloon’s shopping, dining and commercial district. This evening perhaps take part in an Optional Experience. Hotel: Regal Kowloon

Hong Kong Sightseeing d This morning’s City Tour starts with an exciting funicular railway ride to the top of Victoria Peak. Reach the 373 metre summit by the iconic Peak Tram, which has been in operation since 1888. Take in the breathtaking views over the city and the harbour. Next stop is Aberdeen Fishing Village for a sampan ride and a close view of the ﬁshermen who live and work on their boats, a Cultural Insight . Enjoy a Dim Sum Regional Meal onboard the famous Jumbo Floating Restaurant. After lunch take a short drive to the famous Stanley Market – one of Hong Kong’s oldest settlements. Stanley is a picturesque ﬁshing village on the southeast of Hong Kong Island. A century ago it was notorious for its pirates and smuggling activities but nowadays the village is best known for its market. This evening is at leisure for you to enjoy the wide choice of local restaurants and bars near your hotel. (BB, RM)

Hong Kong ▶ Macau ▶ Hong Kong d This morning take the high-speed ferry to Macau and on arrival meet a Local Specialist who will accompany you throughout the day. Macau is well known for its casinos and because it was colonised by the Portuguese for 400 years before reverting to Chinese rule in 1999, it has a lovely Mediterranean atmosphere and charm. Drive along the Guia Circuit (Grand Prix Race Track) and see the 20 metre tall statue of Kun Lam, the Goddess of Mercy. Visit the A-Ma Temple, which is one of the best examples of a Taoist temple. Legend has it that the Portuguese named the enclave A-Ma-Gao after the young and beautiful Sea Goddess who saved their ship in a storm. Go up to the Observation Deck of the Macau Tower, soaring 338 meters above the city it is the 10th highest freestanding tower in the world. After lunch visit the ruins of St. Paul’s. Dating from the 17th century all that is left of the once spectacular cathedral is the intricate stone façade at the top of a grand ﬂight of steps. Walk through the historic Senado Square towards the crumbling Monte Fort and visit one of Macau’s top casinos before returning to Hong Kong by ferry. (BB, L) Depart Hong Kong Transfer to Hong Kong International Airport for your onward ﬂight. (BB)

TRIP PLANNER

Daily departures 03 January - 27 December 2018

Price per person

Departures on or between

Twin Share

Triple Share

Single Supp

02 Jan to 05 Jan, 04 Feb to 28 Sep, 01 Nov -19 Dec 2018

2325

2315

330

06 Jan to 03 Feb 2018

2450

2440

430

29 Sep to 30 Oct 2018

2475

2465

470

FROM

YOUR INSIDER EXPERIENCES

Code: SINGA HIDDEN TREASURE 3 nights

3 meals Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure Arrive Singapore (3 Nights) Welcome to Singapore. On arrival at Singapore Changi Airport you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel, situated on the banks of the Singapore River close to theInsider restaurants and shops Quay. For more Experiences, lookof forClarke this symbol Hotel: Novotel Clarke Quay

Singapore Sightseeing d e This morning start your city tour from where it all began for colonial Singapore at the Raff les Landing Site. This is where Sir Stamford Raff les is believed to have first stepped ashore in 1819 in search of a new trading port for the British East India Company. Continue with a walk through the Colonial District which forms the very heart ofin Singapore. See the former ParliamentPortuguese House, the Victoria Indulge a melting pot of British, and Theatre which was originally on builtthis as theshort Town Hall in 1862 and across the road Chinese fl avours hop through Hong Kong the Old Supreme Court Building. Later discover the contrasts of Singapore with and Macau – dramatic skyscrapers, tranquil hilltop visits to Chinatown and Little India, a Cultural Insight . Chinatown has evolved sincesanctuaries 1821 and was theand area many immigrants headed for on arrival to retailChinese therapy in bustling street markets the then British colony. Continue with a visit to Little India to discover a district and malls are yours to explore, made even more rich in culture and deeply rooted in the traditions of the Indian community. aftBotanic er indulging in delicious Sum on the Latermemorable visit the Singapore Gardens which is listed as a Dim UNESCO World Heritage Site and a walk through the National Orchid Garden which boasts waters oftalk Aberdeen Harbour. a sprawling display of 60,000 orchids. The afternoon is yours at leisure. (BB)

Singapore Sightseeing d Start your day with a visit to a typical Peranakan home and admire the many antiques and treasures worthy of any museum collection. The Peranakans are straits-born Chinese who are descendants of Chinese immigrants many of who TRIP YOUR ABOUT marriedf theMORE local Malays in the region. Meet and chat with the hosts to learn about their heritage and culture while enjoying some typical Peranakan tea time treats, Cultural . The evening is yours at leisure or choose to join 58 for details. page Insight Wi Fia: See an Optional Experience. (BB) . See page 56 for details. included Airport transfers 4 Depart*All Singapore prices are per person, twin share. Transfer to the airport for your onward ﬂight. (BB) Book early for great savings - see pages 20-21. Extra nights’ accommodation page 55. Flights: to and from Hong Kong are not included. Visas are generally not required for Hong Kong and Macau but please TRIP PLANNER contact your travel agent for more information. Daily departures 06 January - 18 December 2018 Price per person and Optional itineraries up-to-date availability, www.trafalgar.com forTwin Visit Departures on or between Share Triple Share Single Supp Experiences. 06 Jan - 24 Jan 2018 1550 1445 670 20 Feb - 18 Dec 2018

1550

1445

670

Please note: This trip is not available for departures from 25 January to 19 February 2018 inclusive

TRIP COMBINATIONS

Hong Kong is a convenient gateway to many destinations in South East Asia and it is also a convenient stopover when travelling to Europe. This trip can be booked on its own or in conjunction with the itinerary of your choice from any Trafalgar brochure.

Singapore is a convenient gateway to many destinations in South East Asia and it is also a convenient stopover when travelling to Europe. This trip can be booked on its own or in conjunction with the itinerary of your choice from any Trafalgar brochure. 53

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T a e c P d

EXTEND YOUR STAY... Each itinerary shows the city where your holiday starts and ends. Choose how many nights you wish to extend your stay before or after your holiday and ask your Travel Agent to make the reservations when you book. Transfers are included when you extend your stay with this offer. Prices are per person per night based on twin room accommodation with private facilities. Triple rooms are available in most hotels and these are generally double rooms with an extra bed. These rooms are suitable for guests travelling with children. All prices include applicable taxes and full buffet breakfast. Check with your Travel Agent for availability. Conditions: Extra hotel nights should be booked at the time of your holiday reservation; they are subject to availability and offered only in conjunction with the holiday you are booking. Space is limited and blackout dates may apply. Hotels may be subject to change.

Asia_Extros_2018_AU.indd 54

09/06/2017 09:43

Per person price (A$) City

Hotel

Season

Single

Twin

Triple

Mandalay

Mandalay Hill Resort

Yangon (Rangoon)

Sule Shangri - La

10 01 10 01

Jan - 30 Apr, 01 Jul - 31 Jul, 01 Oct - 31 Dec May - 30 Jun, 01 Aug - 30 Sep Jan - 30 Apr, 01 Jul - 31 Jul, 01 Oct - 22 Dec May - 30 Jun, 01 Aug - 30 Sep

365 302 312 280

203 172 188 172

196 169 179 168

01 01 01 01 26

Jan - 31 Mar, 01 Oct - 30 Nov Apr - 30 Sep Jan - 31 Mar, 01 Oct - 25 Dec Apr - 30 Sep Dec - 31 Dec

282 241 190 160 249

162 141 115 101 145

149 136 107 97 127

01 01 01 01 01 06 29 01 01

Mar - 31 Aug Sep - 31 Oct Jun - 31 Aug Mar - 31 May, 01 Sep - 31 Oct Jan - 05 Jan, 04 Feb - 28 Sep, 01 Nov - 19 Dec Jan - 03 Feb Sep - 31 Oct, 20 Dec - 31 Dec Jul - 31 Aug Mar - 30 Jun, 01 Sep - 31 Oct

266 296 250 279 309 379 406 373 362

154 169 146 160 192 227 241 207 202

150 160 144 154 190 213 222 198 194

03 01 13 01 01 10 01 10 01

Jan - 31 Mar, 01 Oct -15 Apr '19 Apr - 30 Sep Jan - 31 Mar Apr - 30 Sep Oct -15 Apr '19 Jan - 31 Mar, 01 Oct -15 Apr '19 Apr - 30 Sep Jan - 31 Mar, 01 Oct -15 Apr '19 Apr - 30 Sep

377 286 302 286 326 278 199 476 354

209 164 172 164 184 160 120 259 197

154 124 170 156 180 120 95 227 160

11 11 01 11 01 01 11 11 01 01 01 30 12

Jan - 20 Dec Jan - 20 Dec Mar - 31 Oct Jan - 28 Feb, 01 Jun - 31 Aug, 01 Dec - 20 Dec May - 31 May, 01 Sep - 30 Sep Mar - 30 Apr, 01 Oct - 30 Nov Jan - 20 Dec Jan - 28 Feb, 01 Jun - 31 Aug, 01 Dec - 20 Dec May - 31 May, 01 Sep - 30 Sep Mar - 30 Apr, 01 Oct - 30 Nov Mar - 31 Oct Mar - 30 Apr Oct - 20 Oct

685 668 470 490 548 651 532 321 363 414 414 411 492

549 549 287 312 346 388 499 245 270 321 302 234 275

465 499 270 253 211 312 465 245 270 321 287 217 258

18 May - 31 May,14 Sep -11 Oct

573

316

299

01 Jun - 30 Jun, 01 Aug - 13 Sep

593

326

300

01 May -17 May, 01 Jul - 31 Jul 01 Mar - 31 Oct 01 Jan - 09 Dec

614 554 548

336 346 414

311 329 329

Villa Maly

01 Apr - 30 Sep 01 Mar - 31 Mar, 01 Oct -12 Dec

276 440

159 241

144 199

Batu Ferringhi

Golden Sands Resort

Georgetown

Penaga Hotel

01 Mar - 30 Jun, 01Sep - 31 Oct 01 Jul - 31 Aug 01 Mar - 31 Oct

327 361 243

184 201 142

169 183 129

Novotel Clarke Quay

06 Jan - 26 Jan, 20 Feb - 21 Dec

497

269

234

Galle Face Hotel Mt. Lavinia Hotel

01 Feb - 31 Dec 01 Feb - 31 Dec

354 348

213 207

183 172

Bangkok

Royal Orchid Sheraton

Chiang Mai Chiang Rai

De Naga The Legend Chiang Rai

19 01 20 01 01 21

322 278 274 271 243 342

182 160 158 156 142 192

170 153 147 138 128 163

314 334

178 188

162 164

BURMA

CAMBODIA Phnom Penh

Sokha Phnom Penh

Siem Reap

Le Meridien

CHINA Beijing

Novotel Peace Hotel

Chengdu

Crowne Plaza

Hong Kong

Regal Kowloon

Shanghai

Hyatt on the Bund

INDIA Delhi

Sheraton New Delhi Pride Plaza Hotel

Jaipur

Hilton

Mumbai

JW Marriott Juhu

JAPAN Kyoto

Gion Yoshiima (ryokan)*# Ikumatsu (ryokan)*# New Miyako Nikko Princess

Osaka

Nisshokan Shoshintei (ryokan)*# Sheraton Miyako

Sapporo

Rihga Royal Keio Plaza Sapporo Hotel

Tokyo

Keio Plaza Tokyo Hotel New Otani

LAOS Luang Prabang

MALAYSIA

SINGAPORE Singapore

SRI LANKA Colombo Mt. Lavinia

THAILAND Jan - 31 Mar, 01 Nov -15 Dec Apr - 31 Oct Jan - 27 Dec Feb - 31 Mar, 01 Nov - 20 Dec Apr - 31 Oct Dec - 31 Dec

VIETNAM Hanoi Melia Hanoi Ho Chi Minh City Sofitel Saigon Plaza *Rate includes breakfast and dinner # An additional seasonal supplement may apply

15 Jan - 28 Dec 15 Jan - 28 Dec

Asia_Extros_2018_AU.indd 55

09/06/2017 15:09

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AIRPORT TRANSFERS

With Trafalgar you will receive complimentary arrival and departure transfers on all holidays by shuttlebus, car or minibus, between designated airports and hotels on the start and end day of your holiday. Trafalgar is also pleased to offer complimentary airport transfers on other days in conjunction with pre and post trip accommodation when booked through Trafalgar. Flight timings must be provided to Trafalgar no fewer than 21 days prior to the start of the trip. In the event of missed transfers due to flight delays outside of Trafalgar’s control or guests not using this service, no refund is available.

GROUP TRAVEL

GROUPS ON SCHEDULED DEPARTURES Get great savings with every booking of nine or more guests on one of our brochure holidays – the more guests, the greater your discount. Contact us today to find out about our generous free-trip policy and obtain a quote for your group.

CUSTOM GROUPS Trafalgar can customise a trip exclusively for your group, to any of our worldwide destinations. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, or in a group sharing a special interest in the arts, food, architecture, history or even gardening, our global team has the experience and local knowledge to help you discover the essence of any destination on your terms. Tell us where you wish to travel, the standard of hotels you prefer, along with any sightseeing you want included, and we can create genuine “insider” experiences that will exceed your expectations and deliver exceptional value. We take care of all the details to ensure your group journey of discovery is effortless and secure, with the knowledge that you have entrusted your travel in the hands of an award-winning global company with an impeccable reputation. For more information, contact your local Travel Agent or the dedicated Trafalgar Groups team at 02 9657 3333 or email groups@trafalgartours.com.au Note: Minimum numbers for custom groups vary 10 - 20 guests based on your chosen destination.

BROCHURE TERMINOLOGY Here is a description of some of the specific terms used in the itinerary pages of this brochure: Visit – In-depth sightseeing with a Local Specialist or Travel Director. View – A brief stop to enjoy the sights and take photos. See – See the sights while driving by on your coach, or from your cruise or train.

Asia_Extros_2018_AU.indd 56

09/06/2017 14:40

READY, STEADY…GO

TRAFALGAR’S GOLD SEAL

WITH MYTRAFALGAR

ADDITIONAL PROTECTION

Every moment matters. To ensure that your trip runs smoothly and we deliver the very best, personalised experience, we require all our guests to register on our new travel portal, MyTrafalgar, before they depart for their holiday. This ensures that we have the information we need to make every moment of your journey special and hassle-free.

TRAFALGAR’S GOLD SEAL ADDITIONAL PROTECTION PLAN COSTS ONLY A$99 PER PERSON (PAYABLE WITH YOUR DEPOSIT ONLY) AND INCLUDES:

•• W e’ll personalise your trip and accommodate dietary or rooming requirements •• M ake your holiday hassle-free, from hotel check-ins to passport and security checks •• R egister your emergency contact details, in the unlikely event they’re required •• S imply log in and activate your registration on MyTrafalgar. www.trafalgar.com/mytrafalgar

PASSPORTS AND VISAS Each guest is responsible for ensuring their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that all necessary visas and permits have been acquired. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holidays. Each guest must comply with entry, health and other requirements of the countries visited during your trip. Contact your Travel Agent, airline or relevant government authorities to obtain the necessary travel information. The Operators and/or their employees and their agents are not responsible for passport, visa, entry, health and other requirements of the countries visited, or for any loss sustained by you for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.

ONCE ACTIVATED, YOU’RE READY TO TRAVEL! •• B efore you go: You’ll receive all of your itinerary details and travel documents. You can then choose to meet your Travel Director and connect with your travel companions, explore your itinerary and receive pre-trip updates •• W hile travelling: Always stay in the know, with updates from your Travel Director. Chat to your companions in real time and share your pictures with friends and loved ones

ON YOUR HOLIDAY Should you, or your travel companion, leave at any time during the trip for personal sickness reasons or be required to return to Australia due to injury, illness or death, you and your companion will be refunded up to A$90 per person per day for the unused portion of the holiday (note that in some cases hotels require a one night cancellation fee). A doctor’s certificate is required. RETURN FLIGHT SECURITY If you or a member of your direct family in Australia should fall sick* while you are on your Trafalgar guided holiday, we will take care of the additional cost of tickets for your earlier or later return home in the same class of air travel on the first available flight, provided you hold round-trip tickets on Trafalgar’s recommended airline(s) booked through Trafalgar from Australia. PRE-PAID CANCELLATION OPTION Your deposit and/or payment to Trafalgar will be refunded in full or you will have the option to carry it over to another Trafalgar or TTC holiday should you cancel your holiday for any reason prior to 30 days from departure date from Australia. This cancellation option covers land arrangements made by Trafalgar only. If the Australian Government DFAT advice for the destination changes to “Reconsider the need to travel” or “Do not travel” you may have your deposit and / or payment refunded at any time prior to tour commencement or you will have the option to carry it over to another Trafalgar or TTC holiday. Prior to departure from Australia your airfares are not covered by Gold Seal. We recommend you take out Covermore Travel Insurance specifically covering the value of your airfares should you cancel your holiday (Please review Covermore terms and conditions around cancellation cover). We are happy to help you with arranging that travel insurance. Any rebooking costs of airfares prior to departure are not covered by Gold Seal. Cancellation option fee is not refundable for any reason. Please note that travel agent fees and cancellation fees may apply. * Medical certificates as proof of all illness claims must be supplied.

•• B ack home: Reminisce about your journey, stay in touch and get inspired for future trips •• M yTrafalgar: Your easy to use travel portal for the perfect Trafalgar holiday To activate simply log in and activate your registration on MyTrafalgar. www.trafalgar.com/mytrafalgar

CAN WE HELP YOU?

Call Toll-free on 1 800 002 006 For a Trafalgar expert: travel advice, bookings, information or a helping hand. (Australian Eastern Standard Time) Monday - Friday: 9:00am – 1:00am Saturday: 9:00am – 10:00pm Closed on Sundays On-line 24/7 www.trafalgar.com For information, bookings, online payments and frequently asked questions 57

Asia_Extros_2018_AU.indd 57

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BOOKING CONDITIONS BOOKING CONDITIONS AND OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION Large print version is available at: www.trafalgar.com

PAYMENT & CANCELLATION FEES SUMMARY INFORMATION GUIDED HOLIDAYS INCLUDING VIETNAM DOMESTIC FLIGHTS Deposit required $250 Final Payment 80 days No of Days Penalty 80 days and over Deposit

ALL OTHER ASIA GUIDED HOLIDAYS

AIR TICKETS

Deposit required Final Payment No of Days 45 days and over

$250 45 days Penalty Deposit

Deposit required Final Payment No of Days 45 days and over

As per airline policy As per airline policy Penalty $35 plus airline charges

50%

44-15 days

$35 plus airline charges

79 - 45 days

50%

44-15 days

50%

14-8 days

75%

14-8 days

$35 plus airline charges

14-8 days 7-1 days Departure Day/No show

75% 100% 100%

7-1 days Departure Day/No show

100% 100%

7-1 days Departure Day/ No show

$35 plus airline charges $35 plus airline charges

YOUR GUIDED HOLIDAY BOOKING Trafalgar Tours (Aust) Pty Ltd is the ‘Sales Company’; Trafalgar Tours Limited is the ‘Operator’; collectively these companies are referred to as ‘Trafalgar’. Your agreement is with Trafalgar and a contract is formed when you make a reservation with us that we accept. Enrolment in and payment for a guided holiday shall constitute acceptance by the guest of the terms and conditions in this brochure. These cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. The invalidity of any provisions herein shall not affect the validity of any other provisions. The agreement shall be construed as though the invalid provision was not contained herein and was replaced with an enforceable provision as similar as possible to the original provision. Disclaimer Travel is personal and each individual’s goals and experiences may differ. Trafalgar will not be bound by, or liable for, any description, photograph, representation or warranty made by or provided by any independent third party sales representative, Travel Agent, or other person or entity relating to any holiday offered by Trafalgar. Departure Date The departure date is the date indicated on the Trafalgar confirmation. Security Security is a major concern to all of us and the situation globally is constantly changing. Events around the world, coupled with the “Travel Advisories” put out by various governments, may at times necessitate changes to the accommodations and itinerary or even trip cancellation. You must accept these risks involved in travel to any country that may experience security difficulties and accept responsibility for your own travel decisions. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE GUIDED HOLIDAY PRICE Air Transportation Within Asia, airfares are included in the “Land & Internal Air” and “Land, Cruise & Internal Air” prices. These included flights are outlined in each itinerary page price panel. Guests travelling on any Internal Asia flight must provide their full name (as appears on passport), date of birth and gender. Incomplete or inaccurate information may result in additional charges payable directly to the airline or in a worst-case scenario, be denied boarding. Guided Holiday By air-conditioned luxury motorcoaches with reclining seats. Please note on some regional holidays smaller motorcoaches are used. Hotel Accommodation Prices are per person, based on two persons sharing with private bath or shower. Triple rooms may be available on selected holidays in limited numbers. Triple occupancy is based on twin bedded accommodation with one extra bed which may be a rollaway or folding bed. Three adults may find these rooms small and they are generally more suitable for two adults and one child. Every effort has been made to reserve two-bed rooms; however, on some occasions, rooms with one double bed may be the only choice available. These rooms will be allocated to single Travellers and couples first; other rooms may feature a single bed and rollaway bed, murphy bed or sleeper sofa. Trafalgar shall not be responsible or liable for any claims or issues arising out of the shared rooming. Special room requests (adjacent, connecting or lower-floor rooms, as examples) must be made at time of booking. Special room requests are not guaranteed and are based on availability at time of check-in. Substitute hotels may be used sometimes. We try to use hotels of similar standard. Hotel Frequent Traveller program points are not earned with hotels on Trafalgar holidays. Note hotel room sizes, standards, facilities and services provided may vary from country to country and region to region and are often local in style. Cruises Per person prices are based on two persons sharing a cabin with two berths, private shower and toilet. A limited number of single cabins are available at an extra cost.

Free WiFi Internet Service Complimentary WiFi service is available in many Trafalgar hotel guestrooms and/or the public areas of most hotels. In Vietnam WiFi is also provided on-board the motorcoaches except in remote locations. The WiFi on the motorcoaches uses the mobile phone network and as a result the connection will be slower than standard broadband and at times may not be available. Audio and Video streaming is not available using motorcoach WiFi. Please note that it is not available when the main Trafalgar motorcoach is not being used, such as on transfer motorcoaches and other local services. For further information on which countries WiFi is offered in as well as daily data allowances please refer to the Trafalgar website www.trafalgar.com/wifi. Travel Director Guided holidays are conducted in English by a professional Travel Director. In the unlikely event that there are ten guests or less travelling on a departure, Trafalgar reserves the right to operate this departure on an individual basis with private transfers and individual arrangements. Itinerary extensions are operated on a locally hosted basis using regular English-speaking Local Host services. Meals Meals are included as detailed on itineraries. Sightseeing Experiences, entrance fees and an Englishspeaking Local Specialist (when required) are included as detailed in the itinerary pages. Transfers Between airports, hotels, railway stations and piers are included as indicated on each guided holiday itinerary. There will be no refund for missed or unused transfers. If you did not purchase your flights from Trafalgar, you will need to provide your arrival and departure flight information to Trafalgar at the time of booking. It is your responsibility to update Trafalgar with any changes to your flight schedule to ensure that you receive your transfers. Failure to do so may result in missing these services and no refund shall be due for missed arrival transfers resulting from missing or outdated flight information. Porterage Luggage handling of one suitcase per person, at each guided holiday hotel is included in the guided holiday price. Due to limited motorcoach capacity, a single bag is allowed with dimensions not exceeding 30”x18”x10” (76x46x25cm) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs. (23kg). Airlines may impose stricter weight and size limits for luggage and may also charge fees for checked luggage, including the first checked bag. Please check with your airline(s) directly for their most current luggage regulations and related fees. Trafalgar is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers regarding luggage. For internal air flights within Asia, only one suitcase per person can be checked-in, and it must weigh no more than 44 lbs. (20kg). You may be asked by the airline to pay fees of approximately US$3.00 per kg for extra weight limit. Carry-on/hand luggage is restricted to one piece per person, not exceeding 12”x11”x6” (30x28x14 cm) to fit under your motorcoach seat or in the small overhead compartment and the weight must not exceed 18lbs (7kgs). Carry-on/hand luggage handling is the responsibility of each guest and must be taken on and off the motorcoach by you each day of the guided holiday. Carry-ons with telescopic handles and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartments or under seats and, therefore, cannot be accepted as carry-on luggage. Trafalgar and Trafalgar’s affiliated entities shall not be liable for loss or damage to luggage or any guest’s belongings. Guests should immediately report lost items to the Travel Director who will assist in completing a lost property form that can be used for an insurance claim. Trafalgar cannot assist in locating lost items after the guest disembarks or completes the Trafalgar holiday. Tips/Gratuities Tips/gratuities are included for services on guided holiday, except to your Motorcoach Driver, Local Host, Local Specialists and Travel Director whose tips/

gratuities should be extended on a voluntary, individual basis at the end of your holiday. Included tips/gratuities cover all services provided by dining-room waiters, housekeeping staff and porters at hotels. On the Yangtze River Cruise there is a flat service charge of RMB 150 per person which is payable locally and not included in the Trafalgar package price. This covers services provided by waiters, housekeeping staff and porters. This service charge does not include a gratuity for the Cruise Director, for any Local Experts or for any additional special services and can be offered at the guest’s discretion. NOT INCLUDED IN GUIDED HOLIDAY PRICE Any items and matters not referred to above, including, airfares to and from your destination, air-related taxes and fees (except where specified); additional fees charged by airlines such as checked and/or excess luggage, seat selections and any other services; passport and visa fees; insurances of all kinds; tips/gratuities to Travel Directors, Local Host, Local Specialists and Motorcoach Drivers; laundry; phone calls; minibar; beverages and meals not detailed in the itinerary; Optional Experiences; and all items of a personal nature. Additional taxes and surcharges may be collected by foreign governmental and non-governmental entities. The price does not cover costs and expenses, including your return home, if you leave the guided holiday whether of your own volition, our decision based on behaviour that disrupts the trip, due to illness, action by any government or other reason. This list is illustrative and not a complete list of every item not included. RESERVATIONS & PAYMENTS 1. Your guided holiday will be confirmed after receipt of a non-refundable, non-transferable deposit as detailed in the Summary Information table. We reserve the right to refuse a booking without giving any reason and shall in that event return any deposit received. If not received within 7 calendar days of booking, the reservation will automatically be cancelled. On certain departures, deposits may be required at time of booking to hold seats. 2. Air-inclusive bookings may require an additional nonrefundable deposit or payment in full at the time of booking, see Air Arrangements section. 3. Final payment for your land reservation will be due prior to departure no later than as detailed in the Summary Information table. Payment in full will be required at time of booking for reservations made less than 45/80 days (as detailed in the Summary Information table) prior to the departure date. 4. Trafalgar reserves the right to cancel the reservation and impose cancellation charges if any payment is not received as detailed within the Summary Information table above. Trafalgar will not be responsible for lost land and/or air reservations. 5. Credit Card Bookings: Trafalgar should be advised of your credit card number when making your reservation directly with us. For security purposes, we are required to collect the guest’s credit card billing address, card expiration date and the customer verification code every time a payment is applied. A fee of 1% will be applied at the time of payment when paying by credit card. 6. Any special meal requirements, including allergies, must be provided at time of booking and are received on a REQUEST basis only. Trafalgar cannot assure special meal requests will be fulfilled and does not assume responsibility or liability if requests are not fulfilled. 7. Your Travel Agent shall hold all monies for each and every person named in the booking until the booking is confirmed at which time your Travel Agent shall provide those monies promptly to us. You consent to us depositing monies received by us as required by law. We will be entitled to keep interest earned on monies. You consent that all monies paid to us whether through your Travel Agent, by deposit or otherwise, may be disbursed by us as and when we see fit.

EXTRA ACCOMMODATIONS Deposit required No additional deposit required Final Payment In accordance with guided holiday No of Days Penalty 45 days and over $35 Higher of $35 or 44-15 days 25% of accommodation price Higher of $35 or 14-8 days 30% of accommodation price 7-1 days 100% of accommodation price Departure Day/ 100% of accommodation price No show Book & Pay Early Discounts Discounts are applied at the time of booking, apply to the LAND-only portion of holidays featuring the “Book & Pay Early Discount” in the price panel, and require full payment by the applicable discount deadline dates (see Your Savings section), but no later than 45/80 days (as detailed in the Summary Information table) prior to departure for land-only holidays (80 days for Guided Holiday featuring Vietnam domestic flights). If full payment is not received by the correct date - as stated on the invoice - the discount will be removed and the booking will be re-priced. These discounts are not valid on all itineraries or departure dates; do not apply to optional extensions, airfares, government taxes and fees, air flight supplements, extra nights’ accommodation, transfers or any cruise portion of a holiday. Normal cancellation penalties apply. This offer is subject to availability, applies to new bookings only and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Travel Documents Provided full payment has been received travel documents will be sent in electronic format no later than 21 days prior to departure. You may opt to receive hard copy documents in which case these will be sent to you approximately 21 days prior to the departure date. If final payment is not received when due, costs to courier documents will be the responsibility of the Travel Agent. If you are leaving home earlier, please ask your Travel Agent to request your travel documents well in advance. Please also make sure that you provide your Travel Agent with the flight details that are booked independently no less than 21 days prior to flight departure date. Passports, Visas and other Entry/Exit Requirements All guests including children must be in possession of a machine-readable passport valid for 6 months after their trip return date along with applicable visas. Please refer to “Travel Essentials” section. Due to government imposed security/ immigration measures, passport and emergency contact information is required for all guests prior to the release of travel documents. For entry to China, India, Sri Lanka, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia visas are required for all passport holders. Visas may also be required for Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Japan for some passport holders and you should check with your Travel Agent or Consulate Service for information regarding necessary travel documentation. For some countries an invitation letter is required from the Ground Handler to send along with the visa application. It is the guest’s sole responsibility to secure and/or pay for any and all visas, reciprocity fees, affidavits, immunizations, etc. that are required to be permitted entry into each destination. In some countries you may be subject to entry (reciprocity) fees and/or departure taxes/ exit fees which will be collected at the airports upon entry/departure by local government authorities. Please note that entry to any country may be refused even if the required information and travel documents are complete. Trafalgar will require full passport information (full name, date of birth, passport number, issue and expiry dates) prior to final payment. For up-to-date detailed information on travel documents and visas, entry/exit taxes and further information on entry and exit requirements please check with your Travel Agent or local consular services. Obtaining and carrying these documents is your sole responsibility. Trafalgar bears no responsibility for such information and will not be responsible for advising and/ or obtaining required travel documentation for any guest, or for any delays, damages, and/ or losses including missed portions of your holiday related to improper documentation or government decisions about entry. BOOKING CHANGES, CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS Booking Changes A fee of $35 or more per person, per change plus any further cost we incur, will be charged for

any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed. Costs and charges may increase closer to the departure date that changes are made. We will try to make your requested change but it may not be possible. A change of guided holiday date or itinerary within 45/80 days (as detailed in the Summary Information table) of departure date will be treated as a cancellation. Cancellation fees will apply except when the change is to an earlier departure date and the guided holiday price is equivalent or greater, in which case a $35 (or more) per person amendment fee will be charged. You must also pay any charges imposed by airlines for any changes, including name and date changes. This can be up to 100% of the value of the ticket. Names Changes A fee of $50 per person will be charged for name changes or name corrections together with any airline penalties and other charges incurred. CANCELLATIONS AND CANCELLATION FEES Travel arrangements for any member of the party may be cancelled at any time by written notice by the person who made the booking. Please note the following: • If notice of cancellation is received by Trafalgar more than 45/80 days (as detailed in the Summary Information table) prior to the guided holiday departure date, deposit will be retained. • If full payment is not received 45/80 days (as detailed in the Summary Information table) prior to departure date, Trafalgar has the right to cancel your reservation. Trafalgar will not be responsible for lost reservations. • Notice of cancellation must be made in writing directly to Trafalgar or through your Travel Agent. Please also refer to Trafalgar Gold Seal Additional Protection. • If a person in a party cancels and there is a room change caused by this cancellation (such as a Twin/ Double to Single, or Triple to Twin/Double), charges for the new room type will be the responsibility of the remaining party. The charges detailed in the Summary Information table (includes GST), representing costs incurred by Trafalgar in cancelling your travel arrangements, will apply when notice of cancellation for Guided Holiday is given after the booking is confirmed. Please also refer to Trafalgar’s Gold Seal Additional Protection. • If a guest fails to join the guided holiday on the day of departure, cancellation fees will be 100% (unless the guest notifies us of the delay and joins the guided holiday later at their own expense). • Cancellation fees as per the Summary Table apply to additional accommodation and/or chargeable transfers prior to and after the guided holiday or cruise reserved through Trafalgar and are additional to any cancellation fees or other charges that may be levied by your Travel Agent. • Airline Flights/Tickets: After deposit has been received, any change incurs a $35 service fee per person PLUS any additional change/cancellation fee imposed by the Airline. Some airfares including published fares booked by Trafalgar are non-changeable and non-refundable. See Air Cancellation Section. • Trafalgar is not responsible for other travel arrangements that you or your party has made outside Trafalgar and which are affected by our cancellations. If the reason for your cancellation is covered under your insurance, you may be able to reclaim these charges from your insurer. You or your Travel Agent are responsible to make the claim to your insurer. Illness or Absence Early return expenses are the guest’s responsibility. There is no refund for absence or early departure from a guided holiday, including but not limited to missed hotels, transfers, meals or sightseeing. Trafalgar urges you to purchase travel insurance to cover such circumstances. Trafalgar makes no representation or guarantees concerning reimbursement, scope of coverage, or other aspects of any travel insurance policy or claim. AIR ARRANGEMENTS Reservations/Ticketing If an air reservation is made by Trafalgar payment in full may be required for your airfare at the time of booking your flights in relation to your Trafalgar holiday to get you to/from the starting/ ending point of your holiday. On receipt of full air payment your airfare, taxes and fuel surcharges are final. This will be regardless of future price fluctuations up or down. When booking a guided holiday including flights, you will be required, at the time of booking, to provide us the full name as detailed on the passport, passport number, date and place of issue for each guest. Changes to flight itineraries and name changes and/or corrections may either not be allowed or may result in penalties charged by the airline. These are the guest’s responsibility. Airlines (and other travel providers including Trafalgar)

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change prices and routes from time to time. All air routings are in the sole control of the airline and are subject to change at any time. Air Cancellation Cancellations incur a service fee of $35 per person, plus any airline penalties. Airline imposed penalties may be up to 100% of the air ticket price. Published Fares, Priced Match Fares, Promo Fares and some other airfares booked are non-refundable. Airline Availability Seats are limited in our contracted class of service and may not be available on every flight. Trafalgar does not hold block space on any airline and does not assure seat availability for every single guided holiday departure date. Airline Seating Not all airlines offer pre-assigned seats. Some may charge for pre-assigned seats. Any additional charge imposed by airlines will be at guests’ expense. Where pre-assigned seats are not offered or different seats are desired, guests must contact airline(s) directly to arrange seating assignments. Seating is solely under the airline’s control, as are itinerary changes due to flight delays and schedule changes. Trafalgar reserves the right to offer alternative schedules for itineraries affected by airline schedule changes and equipment. Flight delays, flight cancellation and schedule changes are the responsibility of the airline. Trafalgar will not be responsible or liable for such delays or rescheduling. Airline Special Requests Seat assignment and special meal requests can be requested at time of booking. Trafalgar does not assure the request will be granted. Frequent Flyer miles can be accrued on most air carriers. Upgrades using mileage are not permitted. Many airlines do not automatically add frequent flyer numbers to records for flights booked and ticketed by Trafalgar. It is the guest’s responsibility to request frequent flyer credit from the airline. Trafalgar shall not be responsible for matters concerning frequent flyer miles. GENERAL INFORMATION & CONDITIONS Guided Holiday Prices Are based on costs, charges, tariffs, rates, prices, taxes, levies, exchange rates and other considerations as of the production date of this brochure (see back cover). All are subject to change. No surcharges regarding cost or currency fluctuations will be made to the LAND only price once the deposit is received. No refund will be made on account of reduction of any of the above. If the total guided holiday price increases by more than 10%, guests will have the option to cancel the guided holiday within 7 days of notification of the surcharge without penalty. All prices are in Australian Dollars unless specified. Other Fees and Taxes Taxes and fees are subject to change without notice and will be confirmed at time of booking. Any additional fees charged by the airlines such as luggage handling, seat selections, and/or any other services are the sole responsibility of the guest(s). Additional airrelated restrictions apply. Guided Holiday Participation On all guided holidays children under 5 years of age are not eligible to travel. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult, who will be responsible for their welfare and supervision. Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under the legal age for alcohol consumption in the country being visited. Minors under age 18 travelling to certain foreign countries must be accompanied by both parents or have a notarized letter of consent signed by the parent(s) not travelling. Trafalgar is not responsible for any losses if you fail to have appropriate documentation. If the other parent is deceased or the child has only one legal parent, a notarized statement must be obtained as proof. Trafalgar seeks to provide a safe, enjoyable and memorable travel experience for all guests. Trafalgar welcomes guests with special needs or disabilities. Please note the following: - Guests must advise Trafalgar, at time of booking, of any physical, medical or other special needs that require accommodating. Trafalgar will make reasonable modifications to its policies, practices and procedures when necessary, unless doing so will fundamentally alter the nature of the services provided. - Guests must ensure they are medically and physically able to travel. - Trafalgar may impose safety requirements. Trafalgar may exclude an individual from participating in a guided holiday or an activity if the individual’s participation poses a threat to the health or safety of others. This decision, made solely by Trafalgar, to exclude an individual will be based on an individualised assessment based on reasonable judgment that relies on current medical evidence or on the best available objective evidence to determine the nature, duration and severity of the risk, the probability that potential injury will occur and whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices or procedures will mitigate the risk. No refunds will be given if the decision is made to exclude a guest. - Trafalgar does not provide personal devices (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids or prescription eye glasses) or services of a personal nature (such as eating, toileting or dressing). A Traveller who requires services of a personal nature (eating, toileting or dressing, as examples) should strongly consider bringing a companion to provide such assistance and must understand that other Travellers, Travel Directors and Trafalgar Staff will not be available for such purposes. - Regrettably, motorized scooters are not allowed on guided holidays. - Trafalgar does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention must be sought at a local facility, if available, at the guest’s expense. Trafalgar is not responsible or liable for losses or costs incurred due to unavailability of medical services, or medical services obtained while on holiday, or for the quality of the care

or services received. Medical care in other countries is not always comparable to care that you may receive in your local area. You are encouraged to purchase medical insurance that will cover you while on holiday. Your regular health insurance benefits may not apply abroad. - In purchasing your holiday, you attest that you are physically fit for it. If you have concerns please request additional details about your journey from your Travel Agent or Trafalgar. - Some guided holidays include rough terrain, extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven pavement, steps and/or locations which may not be easily accessible or accessible by wheelchair. During the guided holiday, Trafalgar may make arrangements with carriers, hotels and other independent suppliers to provide travel services. These parties are independent entities which Trafalgar does not control. Trafalgar cannot guarantee disability access or accommodations for guests travelling on international guided holidays. Many Optional Experiences are operated by independent third party suppliers, not Trafalgar. These are not part of the holiday package provided by us. Your contract will be with the operator of the experience. We are not responsible for providing of the experience, or anything that happens during the experience. Some experiences involve outdoor activities and/or can be physically demanding. You must make your own decisions about experiences and participate only in activities that suit your physical ability: we suggest that you speak with your medical provider if you have questions about your abilities. We recommend you check whether any insurance you have also includes your participation in adventure activities you may undertake. Trafalgar may, in its sole discretion, decline booking any guest or remove any guest who cannot comply or refuses to comply with Trafalgar’s terms and conditions. If this occurs, you are responsible for the cost of travel back to your hometown and Trafalgar shall not be liable for your losses and no refund shall be provided. Behaviour We are here to provide the best services possible but in doing so we will not tolerate abusive or aggressive behaviour from our guests. We will refuse to deal with and may terminate the holiday of guests who assault our Company Representatives or who are abusive or aggressive. When you make a booking, you accept responsibility for the proper conduct of all members of your party during your stay. We reserve the right at any time to terminate the travel arrangements and/or cease to deal with any party member(s) whose behaviour, in the reasonable opinion of us or our suppliers, may cause danger, upset, disruption or distress to anyone else or damage to property. Full cancellation charges will apply and no refund will be made. We shall have no obligation to pay compensation or meet any costs or expenses (including but not limited to alternative accommodation and return transportation arrangements) guest may incur as a result of the travel arrangements being terminated. If you damage the accommodation in which you are staying or any property, you must reimburse the accommodation provider or property owner concerned for the cost of the damage before the end of your stay if the cost has been established by then or as soon as it has been established if later. You must indemnify us for the full amount of any claim (also including legal costs) made against us. Criminal proceedings may be instigated. Trafalgar is not responsible for any costs incurred concerning a guest removed from a guided holiday or aircraft, ship or train. Guests agree not to hold Trafalgar or any of its related entities liable for any actions taken under these terms and conditions. Young Traveller Discount The Young Traveller must be aged 11 or under on the departure date to be eligible for the discount, and must be accompanied by an adult, sharing a ‘twin share’ (triple) room. Only one Young Traveller discount per room is permitted. This discount does not apply to extra night accommodation, optional extensions, airfares, taxes & fees, flight supplements, airport transfers or any cruise portion of a holiday. Please see ‘Your Savings’ for details. Itinerary Variations Trafalgar strives to improve guided holiday itineraries, services and features. If improvements can be made, or if circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and to substitute hotels. At certain peak periods multiple departures may operate, sometimes in reverse order; hotels may vary from those stated on the itinerary pages. On guided holidays which include cruises, the ship may be changed for operational reasons. Departures in early and late season are potentially operated in cool weather conditions. As a result, itinerary variations may occur. Certain activities may not be precisely as described or may not be available due to seasonality or weather conditions. We will try to notify you or your Travel Agent of changes. If your enjoyment may be diminished by such limitations, please check with us or your Travel Agent before making a reservation. Trafalgar’s ‘Be My Guest’ experiences are unique and take place in singular locations. In the unlikely event that our local hosts are unable to welcome Trafalgar guests, Trafalgar will attempt to find an alternate experience or a highlight meal will be provided in place of the ‘Be My Guest’ experience. Holidays & Changes During local or national holidays, certain facilities such as museums, sightseeing trips and shopping may be limited or unavailable. In such instances itinerary changes are made by Trafalgar seeking to reduce inconvenience to guests. Such changes are deemed not to be a major change to the itinerary, and no compensation will be payable to guests. Holidays, closing days and other circumstances may necessitate a change of the day of the week for scheduled regional meals, sightseeing or other activities. If, you feel your enjoyment might be diminished by any of these circumstances please check with the

respective national tourist office before selecting a specific departure date. Extended stays If you arranged with us to remain at a destination before or after your guided holiday, your stay will be at your sole expense as is the transfer to either the hotel or airport. Your transfer between the hotel and the airport or vice versa is included providing you booked the pre/post trip hotel through Trafalgar. Please see the ‘Extend Your Stay’ section for a list of pre- and post-guided holiday accommodation. Space is limited and if available can only be booked for the nights before and/or after each guided holiday. Breakfast and luggage handling is not included unless otherwise noted. If your extra night accommodation is not the hotel where your guided holiday begins or ends, you will be responsible for your transfer arrangements at your own expense. For your comfort Trafalgar operates a daily seat rotation system and enforces a strict no smoking (including e-cigarettes) and no alcohol policy on board motorcoaches. Regular comfort stops are made on travelling days. Many hotels, restaurants, trains, cruises and other venues are 100% smoke free. Guided Holiday Cancellation Trafalgar reserves the right to cancel or re-schedule any guided holiday departure in any circumstances, including in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. If cancellation is made by Trafalgar any time prior to departure date of the guided holiday except when you failed to pay the final balance on time, Trafalgar will either refund the amount received for the guided holiday booking, or offer a comparable holiday if available. Trafalgar will refund any difference in price if the alternative is of a lower price however, the Guest will be responsible for additional costs if the alternative is priced higher. Trafalgar is not responsible for other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations and is not liable for any cancellation penalties incurred on other travel arrangements including air tickets. Travel Insurance Trafalgar recommends that all guests purchase comprehensive Travel Insurance. Certain countries have a requirement for foreign visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry. Trafalgar cannot be held responsible for denied entry if a guest is unable to provide details to authorities of insurance or denial of entry for any reason. Disclaimer of Warranties The Operator warrants only that the services shall be generally, though in view of the vagaries of travel, not necessarily precisely, as described, and subject to changes and the other terms and conditions herein. All other warranties, express and implied, including warranties of fitness for a specific purpose and merchantability are expressly excluded. There is no warranty that extends beyond the description of the face hereof. Airport Transfers Making Your Own Flight Arrangements: Should you elect to make your own flight arrangements between your gateway city and your holiday destination, Trafalgar will provide complimentary transfers to/from the hotel as long as your flights arrive/depart in the cruise/ holiday starting/ending cities in accordance with the dates shown in this brochure. Trafalgar will not be responsible for late arrivals or missed transfers due to delayed or cancelled flights, for missed trip days, or for extra costs resulting from the foregoing. To qualify for transfers, it is required that flight information and pre-trip arrangements for all passengers making their own flight arrangements be given to Trafalgar no later than 21 days prior to departure. RESPONSIBILITY Complete Agreement These booking conditions, together with the other terms incorporated into this contract referred to below, represent the entire agreement between the parties. Changes The Operator shall be responsible to the guest for supplying the services and accommodations described in this brochure, except where they cannot be supplied or the itinerary is changed due to delays or other causes of whatever kind or nature beyond the Operator’s control. In such circumstances, the Operator will seek to supply comparable services, accommodations and itineraries and there shall be no refund in these circumstances. Disclaimer of Liability Neither Trafalgar nor the Operator nor its agents or affiliated entities (“released parties”) shall be responsible or liable for cancellations, acts of other service providers, diversions or substitution of equipment or any act, variation, postponement, omission or default by air carriers, land carriers, hoteliers or hotels, transportation companies, or any other persons providing services or accommodations to guests including any results thereof, such as changes in services, accommodations or facilities. Nor shall they be liable for loss or damage to luggage or property, or for injury, illness or death, or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from loss, negligence or delay from the act, error, omission default or negligence of any person not its direct employee or under its exclusive control, including any act, error, omission, default, or negligence of any country, government or governmental authority, officer or employee. The released parties shall not be liable for indirect, special or consequential damages. All luggage and personal effects are at all times and in all circumstances at the risk of the guided holiday participant. Trafalgar recommends that guest obtain luggage insurance. After return at the end of the guided holiday, if lost articles are found and returned to the owner, a service fee will be charged. The Travel Directors, carriers, hotels and other suppliers who provide services on guided holiday are independent contractors; they are not agents, employees or servants of the Operator or its associated companies. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by the Operator are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the carriers and suppliers and to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied. Carriage by sea is subject to the Carrier’s Conditions of Carriage

which are expressly incorporated into this contract, copies of which are available upon request. The released parties are not responsible for any criminal or other conduct by third parties, whether criminal, intentional, grossly negligent, negligent or otherwise. Additional Risks Additional risks and dangers may arise including, but not limited to, hazards of travelling in undeveloped areas, hazards of travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft and other means of conveyance, animal interactions, forces of nature, political unrest, other unrest, hazardous local customs and practices, differing levels of sanitation, differing standards of safety, risks associated with water, food, plants, insects and differing animal regulation, accident or illness in areas lacking means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities, and acts of national and local governments and unrest and acts of others against governments. These risks are not an exhaustive list but are examples of many kinds of risks. You are voluntarily participating in these activities with the knowledge that there are significant dangers involved, and you hereby agree to accept any and all risks. As lawful consideration for the agreement with Trafalgar to participate in such trips and activities you agree you will not make a claim against Trafalgar, its related companies or its personnel or sue for bodily injury, emotional trauma, death, property loss or damage or other loss, cost or expense, however caused, as a result of or related to your contracting for, travelling to or from, or in any and every other way participating in the trip. You release Trafalgar, its related companies and its personnel from any and all claims, known or unknown, arising from contracting for, travelling to or from, and in any and every way participating in a trip. This release of liability and assumption of risk agreement is entered into on behalf of you and all members of your family and party, also including minors accompanying you. This agreement also binds your heirs, legal representatives and assigns. Safety Where the guest occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither Trafalgar nor the Operator nor its agents or co-operating organisations or service providers will be liable for any injury, illness or death or for any loss or damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn at the time of such an accident or incident. This exclusion and limitation of liability shall not be used to imply that the Operator or its agents or affiliated entities are liable in other circumstances. International Treaties Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time guests are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international convention which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol and Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road and the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all the benefits of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage and delay to guests and luggage. Trafalgar Tours (Aust) Pty Ltd’s Limited Role Trafalgar Tours (Aust) Pty Ltd is only responsible for the services of reservations and ticketing. It does not accept any responsibility or liability for any of the acts, omissions or defaults, whether negligent or otherwise, of any of the companies of the Trafalgar group of companies. All matters arising in relation to the services provided by Trafalgar Tours (Aust) Pty Ltd, but not in respect of other things, are subject to the law of the state of New South Wales. Errors and Omissions In the case of computer or human billing errors, we reserve the right to re-invoice participants with correct billing. Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to press; however Trafalgar cannot be held responsible for printing or typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances. Moreover, photographs and descriptions of locations or attractions are merely representative of conditions that existed at time of brochure printing and conditions may not be the same at the time of your journey. The airline(s) featured or nominated in this brochure do not by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure commit or represent themselves either as contracting with any purchaser of a holiday from Trafalgar group or as having any other legal relationship with them. All bookings made with any provider of any transport, facilities, meals, other goods or of any services are subject to terms and conditions and exclusions and/or limitations of liability imposed by them in relation to matters not covered particularly and expressly by our agreement with Trafalgar. If you decide that you do not want to visit a country or part of a country you intended to visit because of any law, condition or requirement of any government or governmental authority, official, servant or agent, you are responsible for any costs, expenses, charges, fees, losses or damage incurred as a consequence and any cancellation or amendment fees. None of the companies in the Trafalgar group of companies, or any of their staff or agents, accept any responsibility or liability for your acts, omissions, defaults, conduct, state of health, condition or circumstances. COMPLAINT PROCEDURES & CONSUMER PROTECTION Complaint Procedure If you have a problem during your holiday please inform Trafalgar’s Travel Director/ Local Representative immediately, who will try to make

things right. If the matter was not resolved locally, please write to Trafalgar’s Guest Relations Department at the address below within sixty (60) days of the end of the Trafalgar holiday, as it is important that you provide us the information quickly. Please quote your booking reference number and all relevant information. Failure to follow this procedure may delay or deny us the opportunity to investigate and rectify the problem, which may affect the way your complaint is dealt with and your rights under this contract. Data Protection To process your guided holiday booking, Trafalgar will need to use personal information for you and guests in your booking. Personal information may include each guest’s name, address, phone number, email address, passport number, and sensitive information such as health, medical, dietary, mobility, religious or other special requirements. This personal information may be passed on to other suppliers of your travel arrangements in addition to public authorities (such as customs and immigration), security and credit checking organisations, and otherwise as required by law. We may need to provide personal information to contractors who provide services to or for us (e.g. sending mail, providing marketing assistance, etc). This may involve sending personal information (including sensitive information) to other countries that may not afford the same level of protection of personal information. In making your booking, you consent to your personal data being passed to relevant third parties as set out above. We may also use the personal information you provide us to review and improve the guided holidays and services that we offer, and to contact you (by post, email and/ or telephone) about other guided holidays and services offered by Trafalgar that you may be interested in. If you don’t want to receive this information, or if you want a copy of the personal information we hold about you, write to us at Trafalgar, Attn: TRAFALGAR TOURS (AUST) PTY LTD, TRAVEL HOUSE, LEVEL 2, 35 GRAFTON STREET, BONDI JUNCTION, NSW 2022. A fee may be charged for supplying you with this information as permitted by law. OTHER CONDITIONS Each guest is required to comply with the terms, conditions, requirements, laws, rules and/or regulations of any service provider, or any country or governmental authority, and shall be liable for any such non-compliance. Booking Arrangements Your booking arrangements can be made through your Travel Agent or with us directly. When you make a booking you must be at least 18 years of age at the time of booking. You are guaranteeing that you understand and have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of yourself and all members of your party the terms of these booking conditions. We will deal only with the lead booking name in all subsequent correspondence and dealings. You are responsible for making all payments due, ensuring the accuracy of all personal details and other information supplied in respect of yourself and your party, notifying us of any changes or cancellations and for receiving correspondence and keeping your party informed. Additional Optional Experiences With Trafalgar, you will enjoy many famous highlights as included features on your guided holiday, at no extra cost. An exciting array of additional Optional Experiences and Activities may be made available to further enhance your experience. These Experiences and Activities are optional, and are offered at special preferential prices. They can be booked only after you start your guided holiday, as many of them are carefully programmed to coincide with highlights available at the time of your visit. A detailed list and cost of these will be included in your travel documentation as well as available on the Trafalgar website. You can book and pay for them through your Travel Director, by cash or credit card. Optional Experiences may vary due to seasonal conditions and require minimum guest participation. Prices are subject to change without notice. Please also see the relevant section of “Guided Holiday Participation” regarding limitation (exclusion) of our liability for Optional Experiences operated by independent third party suppliers. TRAFALGAR TOURS (AUST) PTY LTD (ABN 73 000 717 715) Travel House, Level 2, 35 Grafton Street, Bondi Junction, N.S.W. 2022 Telephone Numbers: SYD Metro area 9657 3333 All other areas 1 300 78 78 78 Fax: (02) 9657 3456 License No: 2TA00 1889 Tour Operators: Trafalgar Tours Limited, Travel House, Rue du Manoir, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH, Channel Islands The Trafalgar group of companies has Marketing/Sales/ Administrative offices/agents in: Australia, Canada, China, Guernsey, Hong Kong, India, Israel, United Kingdom, Ireland, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand and the USA. For further information visit our website at: www.trafalgar.com This brochure supersedes any other prior brochure on the market. See back cover for brochure version and print date. Major Credit Cards Accepted

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Europe • Britain • Hawaii • USA & Canada • Latin America

A GREAT PHOTO FROM OUR TRAVEL DIRECTOR Mary Lee, USA

Download or order your free brochure: www.trafalgar.com Have you visited our sister brand website? www.costsaver.trafalgar.com

Connect with us and fellow travellers: trafalgar.com/guestreviews facebook.com/TrafalgarTravel twitter.com/TrafalgarTalk instagram.com/TrafalgarTravel

Travel Agent Reservations Sydney metro: 02 9657 3333 All other areas: 1300 78 78 78

Call Toll-free on 1800 002 006 for a Trafalgar expert: travel advice, bookings, information or a helping hand. (Australian Eastern Standard Time) Monday to Friday: 9:00am – 1:00am Saturday: 9:00am – 10:00pm On-line 24/7: www.trafalgar.com

To book or discover more, get in touch with your expert Travel Agent

35 Grafton Street, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 ABN: 73 000 717 715 Licence No: 2TA00 1899

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Trafalgar is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation (TTC) and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.

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Printed in AU

1st Edition AU, 09 Jun 2017

09/06/2017 09:42

Trafalgar

Published on Jun 29, 2017

Asia 2018 for AUS

Published on Jun 29, 2017

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