Harbin Ice & Snow Festival

TRAVEL MASTERS & THE TRAVEL STUDIO EXCLUSIVE SMALL-GROUP TOUR

THIS IS ONE OF THOSE VERY SPECIAL TRAVEL EXPERIENCES THAT STAY WITH YOU FOREVER. IT IS SENSATIONAL! The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival stands as a truly unique cultural and artistic extravaganza. Its origins trace back to 1963, but the Festival faced interruptions during China's Cultural Revolution. Fortunately, in 1985, it resumed in its present format and has been celebrated annually ever since. With a duration of approximately six weeks, the Festival now entices over a million visitors to Harbin, earning its reputation as the most remarkable among the world's four major ice and snow festivals.

Despite sharing a similar latitude with Dunedin, New Zealand in the southern hemisphere, Harbin experiences much harsher winters. Temperatures can plummet to as low as -35°C, emphasising the importance of a warm and comfortable base hotel to retreat to.

Harbin is a city full of surprises. Over a century, it has evolved from a Russian engineers' base camp, involved in surveying the eastern extension of the Trans-Siberian rail line. It also served as a sanctuary for up to 25,000 Jewish refugees escaping persecution in the early 1900s. Before World War II, this region was considered a potential permanent home for the Jewish people, alongside Palestine and Morocco. Although many Jewish residents left for Israel and Japan in 1945, a significant Jewish community remains.

The city's rich historical tapestry, influenced by foreign cultures, is most evident in the Daoli District, the oldest and most captivating part of Harbin. Here, you'll find the finest shopping areas, centred around Asia's longest pedestrian mall and its charming cobbled side streets.

In the 1930s, Harbin hosted consulates from 16 different countries, with over 160,000 foreigners representing 33 nationalities making Harbin their home.

|2

HARBIN 2025

The picturesque waterfront promenade, known as Stalin Park, tracing the Songhua River's banks, transforms into a winter wonderland offering a splendid vantage point for the frozen river's vibrant activities.

During the summer, Harbin thrives as a vital Chinese port city, but come winter, the river undergoes a dramatic change as it freezes over completely. The once-active boats become encased in solid ice, while the river itself becomes a playground for various coldweather pursuits. Visitors can partake in ice skating, husky sleigh rides, horse-drawn carriages on sled runners, ice fishing, thrilling slippery slides sculpted entirely from ice, and even an ingenious swimming pool carved into the river's icy surface. A winter visit to Harbin offers a uniquely immersive Ice and Snow experience.

Harbin's culinary scene mirrors its cultural diversity and cold climate, blending influences from Russia, China, and the West. You can savour delectable Chinese dumplings, indulgent Mongolian lamb hotpots, and a wide array of other mouth-watering specialties, all complemented by the local Hapi beer or chilled vodka.

It's worth noting that China's very first brewery was established in Harbin by the Russians back in 1906, a testament to the city's rich culinary and cultural heritage.

Situated at the heart of the frozen Songhua River, Sun Island plays host to a mesmerising display of snow sculptures, masterfully crafted by international competitors hailing from countries like Russia, Japan, Canada, France, South Africa, and many others. The level of intricacy and attention to detail in these exhibits is truly remarkable. While some of the sculptures are imposing in size, it's the quality and imaginative artistry that truly captivate.

Reaching the island itself is an adventure in itself, as we journey via cable car (weather permitting). From high above the frozen river, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the waterfront, the bustling river activity, and the city's picturesque landscape. As a special treat, we'll have the opportunity to witness a private ice carving demonstration, allowing us to witness the immense skill and personalized artistry involved in this captivating craft.

You've probably seen glimpses of this awe-inspiring spectacle on your TV screens every January, but nothing compares to experiencing it in person. Sun Island dedicates a substantial area to half-sized replicas of world-famous landmarks, iconic palaces, and colossal sculptures.

These remarkable creations are painstakingly crafted from blocks of ice sourced from the Songhua River, and they come alive at night with the enchanting glow of fluorescent lighting from within.

It's a sight that truly defies comparison anywhere on Earth.

|3

Journey Highlights

TRAVEL MASTERS & THE TRAVEL STUDIO EXCLUSIVE SMALL-GROUP TOUR

ICE SWIMMING The Songhua River is frozen solid in winter, but a swimming pool is cut into the river ice to allow locals to swim in the freezing water flowing under the thick surface ice cover. It’s quite a spectacle, and of course we’ll be there to see it all.

SIBERIAN TIGER PARK The endangered Siberian Tiger, ancestor of all tiger species, has less than 700 remaining in the wild. They can grow up to 4 metres long and up to 300kg in weight. The Park is just 15kms from Harbin. It started with just 8 tigers in 1986, but now houses about 50 tigers and several hundred other animals. Tigers are bred at the Park and protected. We see them close up and at their best from our own private safari coach.

ICE & SNOW SCULPTURE SHOW There are ice sculptures decorating the local streets and parks, but the best competitive exhibition is in Zhaolin Park. These are smaller sculptures carved with incredible skill into creative shapes that leave you speechless. The Park is also lit in the evening, so we’ll be taking the best opportunities to see these works of art at the very best time of the day.

ST SOPHIA CHURCH This magnificent Russian Orthodox Church is Harbin’s most famous landmark, and the largest of its kind in the Far East. Originally built in 1907 by the Russian Army, its Byzantine architecture and 52 metre spire, now houses the excellent Architecture and Art Exhibition, tracing the historic Russian influence and architecture of Harbin.

CENTRAL STREET DISTRICT Harbin’s major shopping area is 1½km long pedestrian mall, the longest in Asia, with atmospheric cobbled side streets showcasing the architecture and cultures of historic foreign influences. It runs at a right angle to the waterfront, through the oldest part of the city. The frozen waterfront and river are alive with activity - horse and husky sleigh rides, local ice games, ice fishing etc.

|4

TRAVEL MASTERS & THE TRAVEL HARBIN STUDIO 2025EXCLUSIVE SMALL-GROUP TOUR

NIGHT LIGHTS Harbin also celebrates its Winter Festival with a wonderful array of night lights where the main avenues are ablaze with colour. All the major roundabouts and many buildings are showcased with carved ice displays highlighted by special lighting.

VOLGA MANOR The Volga Manor in Harbin is a captivating and enchanting cultural park that offers a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Russian minority in China. Nestled on the banks of the Songhua River, this sprawling estate will transport you to a bygone era with its meticulously preserved Russian architecture, lush gardens, and picturesque landscapes. The manor's architecture reflects a blend of Russian and Chinese influences, making it a unique testament to the coexistence of these two cultures. The Volga Manor is not just a tourist destination; it's a cultural journey that offers an immersive experience in the history and heritage of the Russian community in China.

JAPANESE GERM WARFARE EXPERIMENTAL BASE 731 Prior to WW2, the Japanese Army operated a number of germ warfare experimental bases around the world, but the most notorious was operated by the Japanese Army Medical Unit 731 just 30kms from Harbin. It was a top secret base only exposed in the 1980’s by a Japanese journalist. Up to 10,000 POW’s were used for experimentation - mainly Chinese, Russian, Korean, British and American. We make a visit to the Centre which today portrays the graphic story, in what is left of the original buildings.

JEWISH SYNAGOGUE Once the centre of Harbin’s vibrant Jewish community, this three story temple proudly displays the Jewish history and culture of Harbin, and the outstanding contribution the early Jewish community made to the social development of the city. We have a private visit and hear from a local about this quite amazing and dynamic contribution.

|5

TRAVEL MASTERS & THE TRAVEL STUDIO EXCLUSIVE SMALL-GROUP TOUR

|6

HARBIN 2025

Tour Itinerary MON 13 JAN Brisbane to Guangzhou Overnight Crowne Plaza Guangzhou (4-Star) TUE 14 JAN

Guangzhou to Harbin.

Transfer to Shangri-la Hotel City orientation tour (Breakfast/Dinner)

WED 15 JAN

St Sophia Church, Buddhist Temple, Flood Control Monument & Stalin Park.

Evening tour to Zhaolin Park Ice Sculpture Show (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

THUR 16 JAN

River to watch ice swimming.

Afternoon tour to Sun Island by Cable Car. Visit Snow Sculptures, with Ice Sculpture demo.

Dinner at Russian restaurant.

(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner).

FRI 17 JAN

Morning - Visit to Jewish Synagogue & Germ Warfare Afternoon - Siberian Tiger Park and tiger fee Evening - Ice and Snow World (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner).

SAT 18 JAN

Morning - Volga Manor Afternoon - At leisure (Breakfast/Lunch)

SUN 19 JAN

Harbin to Guangzhou Guangzhou to Brisbane (Breakfast)

MON 20 JAN

Arrive Brisbane

Tour Inclusions

Return flights Brisbane to Harbin including

Monument entrance fees

taxes

Transfers and land travel in and around Harbin

1 night (4-Star) hotel stay en route to Harbin.

by coach with English speaking guide

5 Night’s accommodation at Shangri-la Hotel (5-

Daily bottled water

Star), Harbin/Riverview rooms

Travel Masters experienced Tour Manager &

Breakfast, lunches and dinners included (as per

English speaking local Tour Guides throughout

itinerary)

Gratuities to guides, drivers – whilst on group

All sightseeing excursions outlined in itinerary

tour activities

|7

TRAVEL MASTERS & THE TRAVEL STUDIO EXCLUSIVE SMALL-GROUP TOUR

Tour Costs 7 DAY COMPLETE SMALL-GROUP ESCORTED TOUR All inclusive deluxe touring ex Australia $6,995 Per Person Our exclusive tours are designed to experience the very best the region has to offer in one itinerary, at the very best time to visit. This is a highly personalised deluxe tour using high quality operators, accommodation and transfers.

Departing Brisbane: 13th January 2025 Returning Brisbane: 20th January 2025 *Single Supplement $1,595 per person Business class upgrades available from $3,795 per person Business class upgrades subject to availability & pricing at time of booking.

Your Tour Escort The tour will be escorted by our Senior Travel Advisor Michelle Yates from The Travel Studio.

Michelle will travel with you on this outstanding journey, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and previous travel experience, along with a passion for people, places and different cultures.

You will find that Michelle will take every opportunity to make this tour on of life’s most outstanding memories.

|8

Accommodation ☆

SHANGRI - LA 5 HARBIN

Located in the Daoli district and on the river, the 5-star Shangri-La is recognised as the best hotel in Harbin. It lies across the river from the famous Ice and Snow World, and features two restaurants offering a hearty international breakfast buffet. The Lobby Lounge has a full service bar and light snacks. There is a fitness centre, heated indoor swimming pool, spa tub, steam room and sauna.

The Deluxe Rooms are defined by their exquisite comfort, which showcase a touch of contemporary luxury in the heart of Harbin.

FIRST PASSENGER Title: ________________ Surname (as shown on passport): ___________________________ First Name (as shown on passport): _________________________ Preferred First Name: _______________________ Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE Do you require single supplement? YES / NO Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO (Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you) Do you wish to book an extension? YES / NO Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO Do you have any dietary or seating requests: ___________________________________________________________ Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality:________________ Passport Number: _______________________ Date of Issue: _____/_____/____ Date of Expiry: __/__/____ Date of Birth: ___/___/____ Place of Issue: __________________ Occupation: ________________________________ Email Address: ____________________________________ SECOND PASSENGER Title: ________________ Surname (as shown on passport): _________________________ First Name (as shown on passport): _________________________ Preferred First Name: _______________________ Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE Do you require single supplement? YES / NO Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO (Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you) Do you wish to book an extension? YES / NO Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO Are you a Frequent Flyer Member with Qantas/Emirates? If yes, Membership: _____________(airline) Do you have any dietary or seating requests: ___________________________________________________________ Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality:________________ Passport Number: _______________________ Date of Issue: _____/_____/____ Date of Expiry: __/__/____ Date of Birth: ___/___/____ Place of Issue: ___________________ Occupation: _______________________________ Email Address: ____________________________________ PASSENGER/S CONTACT DETAILS (Please attach details separately if Second Passengers Contact Details are different) Street Address: ______________________________________________________________________________ Suburb: ________________________ State: ___________________ Postcode: __________________________ Postal Address (if different from street address): ___________________________________________________ Suburb: ________________________ State: ___________________ Postcode: __________________________ Home Tel: ______________________ Work Tel: ________________________Fax: _______________________ Mobile No: _______________________ Email: ____________________________________________________

TRAVEL INSURANCE It is compulsory and in your interest to carry travel insurance for health, loss of luggage/belongings and in case of cancellation. Would you like us to send a travel insurance brochure to you? YES / NO

I have read and understand the responsibility section detailed in this brochure and the General Information and Booking Conditions and accept them on behalf of myself and my party. I declare that I/they are not travelling against any medical advice.

Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____/____/______

Your Travel Adviser: ___________________________________

|9

EMERGENCY CONTACT (Person to contact should there be an emergency while you are overseas) Name: _______________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Street Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ Suburb: _________________________________________ State: ___________________ Postcode: ______________ Home Tel: _________________________Work Tel: _____________________Mobile No: _______________________

PAYMENT OPTIONS 1. Direct Deposit 2. Credit Card – Please debit my: Visa / Mastercard / American Express / Diners Club Card No: ______________________________________________________ Expiry: _____/_____/_______ Cardholder’s Name: __________________________________________________ Security code________________ Cardholder’s Signature: _______________________________________________ (Payments by credit card will be subject to a 1.5% Merchant Administration fee/VISA & Mastercard.

3. Direct Deposit into Travel Masters bank account. Please call for bank details.

DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT The deposit of $2,000 per person is accepted as a first instalment of the tour cost and will be fully refunded if the arrangements cannot be confirmed or the tour is cancelled

by Travel Masters. A detailed invoice is sent out to all passengers booked on the tour, approximately two weeks prior to due date of the final payment. Final payment for the tour must be received by 10 September 2024.

CANCELLATION FEES If it is necessary for you to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing. Cancellation charges will apply: up to 10 September 2024, loss of deposit. After 10 September 2024, no refund is applicable.

No refund is available for cancellation of the tour or any service not used after commencement of the tour. Deposits are non-transferable/non refundable.

PASSPORT AND VISAS It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure that they possess the necessary travel documentation for the tour, such as a valid passport and any required visas. In general, a passport should be valid at least 6 months beyond the end of your journey. At the time of making your booking you will be given information about the China Visa required for the tour.

Currently Chinese Visas must be completed at the Consulate however our agency will assist you with the Visa process. Visa fee additional.

PRICES Tour prices stated on the tour brochure has been calculated on the basis of exchange rates and tariffs valid at time of print (November 2023) and are subject to change up until final payment for the tour has been received. Should you decide to cancel your tour on the basis of a change of price, then normal cancellation charges will apply.

The Travel Studio

Travel Masters

PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218 Phone: (07) 5572 7272 Email: lifestyle@thetravelstudio.com.au

PO Box 563, Nerang QLD 4211 Phone: (07) 5596 0511 / 1800 672 988 Email: sales@travelmasters.com.au

|10

Tour Leader Michelle Yates | Michelle@thetravelstudio.com.au

Visit our website: www.travelmasters.com.au

RESPONSIBILITY Mistvale Pty Ltd trading as Travel Masters and/or its associated Companies or Agents, act only in the capacity of agents for the passenger in all matters of transportation, tour operation and other services. All receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons or exchange orders are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which transportation and other services are provided. Travel Masters and/or its associated companies or Agents assume no responsibility for loss, injury, accident, delay or damage or irregularity that may be caused to person or property, however caused arising before commencement and/or during any tour under its management, sponsorship, procurement or otherwise.

It is the responsibility of the passenger to make sure he/she is in possession of the proper visas and other travel documents and that they are in compliance with current government and transportation companies’ regulations. The right is reserved to modify the itinerary in any way considered necessary or desirable, or to change any reservation, hotel feature and/or means of conveyance, without allowance or refund but the extra cost (if any) resulting there from must be paid by the passenger. The right is also reserved to cancel or withdraw any tour, to replace any tour leader with another, to cancel or withdraw any booking made for a passenger, or to decline to accept any person as a member of a tour. The transportation companies or firms shall be exempt from all liabilities in respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury however and by whomsoever caused and of whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger at any time when the passenger is not on board a carrier or conveyance used or operated by the transportation companies or firms.

The contract of passage in use by the transportation companies or firms concerned shall constitute the sole contract between transportation companies or firms, and the purchase of these tours and/or passenger. All tickets, deposit tickets, coupons or orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other services provided there by are offered or supplied by owners, public carriers, or managing agents. The issuance and acceptance of receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons, or exchange orders shall be deemed consent to the above conditions.

The tour is based on flights as detailed in the itinerary, however any other IATA or non-IATA carrier may be used for tour co-ordination.

UNAVOIDABLE AND EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES (FORCE MAJEURE) Force Majeure - Travel Masters & The Travel Studio shall not be liable for any loss or damage incurred by you as a consequence of our agency or any of the suppliers being unable to perform its obligations under your contract(s) due to the unusual or unforeseeable circumstances (a “force majeure event”) beyond the control of the party affected by the force majeure event. The can include (but not be limited to) threat of war, industrial action, act of God, government enforced travel restrictions, riot, political unrest, global pandemic or natural disaster. Should your travel arrangements be cancelled due to an Force Majeure event and a refund offered by the supplier(s) involved in your travel arrangements, Travel Masters & The Travel Studio retains the ability to deduct from any returned funds reasonable costs and/or the remuneration earned as part of the booking procedure and our continued service.

SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT If you are a sole traveller and would prefer to share, we will do our best to arrange a twin share, however this cannot be guaranteed. If we are unable to find someone to share, the single supplement will be applicable.

BUSINESS CLASS Business class upgrades are available on international flights.

Please ask for full details.

PRICE EXCLUDES Meals other than specified, visa fees, insurance, items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, and phone calls.

INCLUDED GRATUITIES As in most countries these days, tipping is expected by guides, tour drivers, waiters and porters. In an effort to reduce individual stress and make the holiday as hassle-free as possible, all tipping on the included activities is taken care of by our tour escort.

HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS There are currently no mandatory vaccinations necessary for entry into China. However, we strongly recommend that you consult your local Doctor or the Travellers Medical Centre at Southport (Ph 55 264444) for full medical advice prior to travel.

INSURANCE It is a condition of joining this tour that you take out comprehensive travel insurance. Our agency will provide details of travel insurance providers and assist you with your holiday insurance. Do not travel without insurance.

CLIMATE AND CLOTHING Visiting Harbin in January offers a magical winter wonderland experience, but it's essential to be well-prepared for the chilly temperatures. Harbin's winter is exceptionally cold, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. To stay comfortable while exploring the city and its marvellous ice and snow festivals, you'll need to layer up.

HOLIDAY VARIATIONS The group holiday cost is subject to surcharges should they occur as a result of increased costs due to changes in the itinerary, government action, currency exchange rates, fuel costs, overflying costs, airport charges and increases in scheduled airfares. The tour itinerary is based on airline schedules, rail and launch schedules current at the time of preparation of this tour. Hotel names are subject to change.

It is suggested that you wear a thermal base layer to keep warm. Add sweaters, insulated jackets, and down coats to create a barrier against the cold. Don't forget a quality pair of waterproof and insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry, and thermal gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your extremities.

Where these changes occur, it may be necessary to amend the tour to accommodate revised days of operation. We will endeavour to include all the sightseeing and other features included, subject to the constraints of the revised scheduling.

You will be advised as these events occur. The tour cost is based on scheduled airline fares, which are not guaranteed until tickets are issued. Our chosen airline reserves the right to increase or decrease airfare at any time prior to ticketing. The transportation companies or firms shall be exempt from all liabilities in respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury and by whom so ever caused and whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger at any time.

All ticket coupons and orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other services provided are offered or supplied by the owners, operators, public carriers, management agents or agent. The tour will be accompanied by an experienced Travel Masters escort. We reserve the right to change tour leaders if circumstances determine this.

DON'T MISS OUT ON THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE HARBIN'S UNIQUE CULTURE, STUNNING ICE

It's also advisable to pack multiple layers, so you can adjust your clothing based on your level of activity and the temperature. And don't underestimate the power of quality thermal socks to keep your feet toasty.

While you'll certainly need to bundle up, remember that many indoor attractions and accommodations are well-heated, so it's a good idea to have a mix of warm clothing and lighter layers for comfort when you're inside.

PLEASE NOTE – DEGREE OF FITNESS All Travel Masters itineraries are carefully planned and wellpaced to maximize the passenger experience, while at the same time ensuring a level of comfort is maintained at all times. Given the nature of the journeys and cultural experiences etc., any person/s of a reasonable general fitness level will have no problems in gaining total satisfaction from the trip. However, should any person be likely to find it necessary to require wheelchair assistance, or walking aid, it is unfortunately considered that participation on this tour would not be appropriate.

FINALLY....

We hope this information will assist you plan for your holiday.

We would be delighted to have you join our Travel Masters escorted holiday tour. Do not hesitate to telephone or call in, so that we can be of further assistance. We want to make this a very happy and memorable tour for you.

AND SNOW SCULPTURESAND MORE!

|11

ASK US ABOUT OUR

OTHER EXCLUSIVE

SMALL-GROUP ESCORTED TOURS AFRICA - COMING SOON