Contents I N T RO D U CT IO N Defining True Travel.................................................. 05 Meet The Experts...................................................... 06 The Design Process.................................................. 08
DEST IN AT ION G U IDE Europe.................................................................... 10 Africa...................................................................... 14 Middle East & North Africa....................................... 18 Asia........................................................................ 22 Australasia............................................................... 26 Latin America........................................................... 30 Polar....................................................................... 34
The Tailor Process..................................................... 38 Testimonials.............................................................. 39 True Travel Foundation.............................................. 40
Discover more......................................................... 42
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Our mission is to enrich lives and create lifelong memories through authentic, tailormade travels. Taking you away from the crowds and into truly wild places. True Travel are a team of passionate, global travellers with deep expertise of our specialist destinations. We firmly believe that no two people are the same, and neither should our travel experiences be. Sharing our unique perspective, experience and craft; we pride ourselves on curating itineraries that are truly inspired by you.
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We want our impact to be lasting and profound and so we have developed a global network of local guides and experts to ensure genuinely authentic experiences, every time. Hand-crafted, individually designed travel is a dying art. We’re here to preserve it.
Henry Morley, Founder
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We each have just one life to explore the whole world.
We exist to make every one of those experiences extraordinary.
T HE A R T O F T R AV E L When we opened our doors in 2013, we laid out a set of values and today they are more important to us than ever. These are the guiding principles for how we work and serve our clients.
SP EC I A L I S T Our unparalleled expertise comes from extensive, first-hand experience in our specialist destinations, alongside decades of hands-on travel curation.
CONSCIOUS Being mindful of the world around us. Always considering the impact of every itinerary and ensuring conscious travel is front of mind.
C U RAT E D Each itinerary starts with a blank canvas, guaranteeing a truly unique experience that is hand-crafted in every detail.
C U RIO U S A shared wonder and insatiable desire to discover everything the world has to offer. We are infinitely curious.
IN D EPE N D E N T
Ensuring inherently authentic experiences, guided by our autonomy and independence.
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MEE T T HE E X P E RT S We have spent the last 10 years growing a team of passionate travel specialists; only expanding our specialist destinations when we have secured the very best experts who can carry the mantle. The True Travel team are inherently expert and infinitely curious, and do not understate the importance of first-hand, lived experience. Henry Morley Founder & CEO
Henry founded True Travel in 2013 after he drove from London, through Europe, across the Mediterranean on a ship moving bananas between Turkey and Egypt, and down the African Continent to Cape Town. Inspired by the people he met and the diversity of cultures he experienced, he returned to the UK with a plan to create a company that would champion local people and their environment. Henry’s meticulous attention to detail is now focused on growing the business whilst pushing the team to constantly improve everything that we deliver. He continues to travel the world, though these days he has retired the 1987 Land Cruiser.
Peter Trangmar
Molly Pigott
Andy Fiddler
Global Sales Director
Commercial Director
Head of Marketing
Pete has been working in the luxury travel industry for 15+ years and has spent the vast majority of that time creating extraordinary trips all across the Asia Pacific region. His travels range from Japan and New Zealand, to India and Antarctica; so he has a wealth of far reaching first hand experience to draw on when crafting itineraries.
Molly has been at True Travel since 2014. Her drive to make sure we exceed expectations whilst operating in a market where excellence is already assumed, means that no stone goes unturned by her team in the post-sale trip execution. Molly’s travel experience has a global reach as she leads new partner and product development.
Andy has spent more than 10 years working in travel, marketing some of the UK’s most well known holiday brands. A keen skier, he enjoys seeing the world with a sense of adventure. Harnessing his background in digital and data, Andy’s mission is to help True Travel get recognised as the best tour operator in luxury travel.
Ella Povey
Imogen Fitzjohn
Marketing Executive
Positive Impact Manager
Ella immerses herself in new cultures when travelling; discovering rich traditions and engaging with diverse communities in order to broaden her perspective. Ella’s passion translates in her role as a marketing executive by showcasing the weird, wonderful and downright brilliant corners of the world.
Imogen had the privilege of growing up in a National Park in Tanzania where her family worked in wildlife conservation, environmental rehabilitation, community outreach programmes and endangered species programmes. Imogen’s role is ensure that we are all playing our part in preserving the world whilst showcasing it.
Molly Kinnaird
Emily Beor-Roberts
Head of Europe
Europe Travel Designer
Molly grew up in Northern Ireland and spent her summers on the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland which inspired her love for all things Europe. Having visited almost every country in the continent, her knowledge of the luxury market in this region is unrivalled and her black book of contacts is the envy of the industry.
Emily has been using her fastidious organisation skills to seek the road less travelled for the last 5 years. Having fined tuned her expertise as a Travel Tailor first, Emily now designs trips across Europe. From the intricacies of salmon fishing in Scotland to the differences of islands in Greece, her expertise is ever expanding.
Matt Wise
Peter Felix
Senior Africa Travel Designer
Senior Africa Travel Designer
Matt was born and raised in South Africa and has travelled around Southern and East Africa from childhood. He’s been on safari over 50 times all over the African continent and is extremely passionate about Africa’s wildlife and wild places. He has 13 years of experience curating luxury safaris across sub-Saharan Africa.
Felix has over 17 years experience designing trips to Africa and has travelled to many farflung regions in the continent; visiting at least twice a year since his career began. He has regularly been to the prime safari locations in East and Southern Africa, as well as more diverse destinations including Ethiopia and Madagascar.
Evie Oswald Senior Latin America Travel Designer
Evie has lived in Argentina and travelled countless times throughout Central and South America; acquiring a particular love for wildlife, epic scenery and endless outdoors adventures. Her geographical and cultural knowledge is second-to-none and Evie loves curating highly intricate trips to her favourite part of the world.
Alice Peden
Olivia Rose
Travel Tailor
Travel Tailor
Alice grew up in Northern Ireland and worked in both France and Mallorca before joining the team as a Travel Tailor. Alice thrives in the details; making sure that every experience elevates each itinerary. A guru for all things concierge, she lives for finding the hottest new restaurant or gallery opening.
Liv began her career living and volunteering in South Africa, Chile and Peru. After falling in love with the vast array of landscapes, wildlife and cultures she returned to the UK excited to share her experiences. At True Travel Liv has been able to merge her scrupulous approach to trip tailoring with conscious travel.
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The Design Process EXQUISITE EXPERIENCES DESIGNED AROUND YOU Each itinerary starts with a call and a blank piece of paper. Our expert Travel Designers use this call to learn everything they need to know about you; where you’ve been before, what you like/dislike, what you want to get out of the trip etc. They then set to work designing an enitrely bespoke itinerary. Our autonomy means our itineraries are informed soley by our travel expertise and our understanding of you. In the design process you can make as many adjustments to your itinerary as you like; so that when you travel, you are free to explore new territories and destinations in the safe hands of our local experts and guides, who ensure the ultimate authentic experience. All the while knowing that through the True Travel Foundation, we are supporting important global causes, as well as offering sustainable travel options and the ability to offset carbon emissions.
Be guided by true independence
Destinations Our team each spend between 8-10 weeks of the year travelling to their specialist destinations. Put simply, we do not sell somewhere if we have not visited ourselves, multiple times. Our destination guide is designed to give you insight into where we sell and as a taste of type of experience we would put together.
Experiences beyond compare 9
Europe T H E A R T O F T R AV E L
Europe Northern: United Kingdom; Ireland; Norway; Sweden; Iceland; Denmark; Greenland. Southern: Italy; Greece; Portugal; Spain; Croatia; Slovenia. Eastern: Turkey; Czech Republic; Hungary; Romania. Western: France; Monaco; Netherlands; Switzerland; Germany; Austria; Belguim. From £700pp per day (Eastern Europe from £500pp per day) Price estimates are based on per day costs which include guides, drivers and logistics, as well as hotels.
“Europe is an enticing mix of history-steeped cities, sleepy villages, charming countrysides and spellbinding coastlines. Rich culture, delectable cuisine and diverse landscapes wait to be explored.” 11
Europe ISL AND HOPPING IN SPAIN AND GREECE
TRAVELLER PROFILE: A family of six from the US; four daughters all in their late teens & early 20’s. Mother and daughter want time exploring mainland Spain and the Balearics, before the rest of the family meet them in Greece. Aside from being in the best locations; their priority is food, wine, being pampered, boats and beach clubs.
ITINERARY DETAIL: • 2 countries • 17 nights • £11,250 per person
DAY 1-4: Madrid, Spain Start the Spanish leg of your trip in the historical capital of Madrid. Centrally located and boasting the best panoramic rooftop views of downtown, The Principal is the perfect base for exploring the city. Spend the day exploring the architecture, culture and gardens; and in the cool of the late evenings, indulge with a private tapas and cerveza tasting tour.
DAY 4-7: Ibiza, Spain For your whistle stop visit of the ‘White Island’ stay at The Montesol Experimental in the heart of Ibiza old town. Explore the island with a Jeep tour on land and a private boat on the water; take a day trip to Formentera to experience the clear waters and white beaches of the small sister island. Round it all off with dinner reservations we’ve made at the hottest new restaurants.
DAY 7-9: Mallorca, Spain Your next stop is the island of Majorca. Staying at Finca Serena, an 18th-century farmhouse surrounded by vineyards and orchards. A selfproclaimed oasis of relaxation, unwind in backto-back spa treatments and wellness activities; emerging only to indulge in a private wine tasting experience at a local vineyard.
DAY 13-16: Santorini, Greece
DAY 9-13: Mykonos, Greece Of the many Greek islands Mykonos is one of the most popular, and for good reason with its idyllic beaches and pleasant atmosphere. Reunite with the family and stay at Katikies. Your days at Nammos and Principote beach clubs will be intersected by a boat trip to Delos to soak up the best this delightful Greek isle has to offer.
Arriving in Santorini, a picturesque destination with postcard views from every perspective, you’ll be staying at the renowned Perivolas. The stay in Santorini is littered with fun experiences for the whole family, including the ‘flying dress’ photoshoot and a Caldera Sunset Catamaran Cruise. DAY 16-18: Athens, Greece Your island hopping adventure culminates in Athens. We have chosen AthensWas in the vibrant neighbourhood of Plaka. Amongst a buzz of restaurants, you’ll amble up the hillside with your private guide to the famed Acropolis of Athens.
Africa T H E A R T O F T R AV E L
Africa Southern Africa: South Africa; Botswana; Namibia; Zambia; Zimbabwe; Mozambique; Malawi. East Africa: Kenya; Tanzania; Zanzibar; Rwanda; Uganda; Ethiopia. Indian Ocean: Madagascar; Mauritius; Seychelles; Maldives. From £800pp per day (Botswana and Rwanda from £1,600pp per day) Price estimates are based on per day costs which include guides, drivers and logistics, as well as hotels.
“Africa is a continent packed with magical landscapes, breathtaking wildlife, passionate guides and hero conservationists. It captures the imagination of every explorer and is rarely a once-in-a-lifetime trip.” 15
Africa AN EAST AFRICA FAMILY ADVENTURE
TRAVELLER PROFILE: A family of five from the UK; three children all in their late teens & early 20’s. An active family who want to be immersed in nature and try as many experiences as possible. It’s their first time in Africa and they want to see the Wildebeest migration and Gorillas.
ITINERARY DETAIL: • 3 countries • 14 nights • £13,500 per person
DAY 1-2: Nairobi, Kenya Your first night in Kenya will be spent at Hemingways Nairobi; an intimate hotel set back from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city. The perfect launchpad for your epic African adventure.
DAY 2-5: Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya For your first stop on safari, we have chosen Sarara Camp. Away from the crowds of the famous national parks where you are limited to vehicle only activities, this luxury tented camp ticks all the boxes. During your stay experience guided walks, night drives, horse riding and sleep outs, without sacrificing wildlife viewing.
DAY 5-8: Serengeti Western Corridor, Tanzania To get up close and personal with animals, there aren’t many better spots than &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge. Situated on the banks of a tributary from the Grumeti River, you’ll enjoy peaceful river views with the only disturbance coming from the resident Hippo pods. This quiet corner of the Serengeti will give you almost private sightings of large lion prides, clans of hyena and big herds of resident plains game. DAY 11-12: Kigali, Rwanda As you connect through to the final stay of your adventure, spend the night at Villa Kigali. Tour the city with a local to learn about the history of the country and then uncover its modern culture and art with a specialist guide. DAY 12-15: DAY 8-11: Northern Serengeti, Tanzania Viewing the migration can be as crowded as the wildebeest themselves, which is why we have chosen Serian’s Serengeti Lamai. A tented camp in the Lamai Wedge, it is isolated by nature and located opposite Crossing Point 4; perfectly positioned for uninterrupted views of the wildebeest river crossings.
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda A Gorilla trek is one of those experiences you will never forget, as nothing can prepare you for coming face to face with the gentle giants of the forest. After a hard day’s trekking, you will seek blissful respite at a luxurious lodge. Boasting breathtaking views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura volcanoes, Singita Kwitonda Lodge is the ultimate location to round off a truly spectacular trip.
Middle East & North Africa T HE A R T O F T R AV E L
Middle East & North Africa Middle East: Jordan; Israel; Oman; United Arab Emirates. North Africa: Egypt; Morocco. From £550pp per day in North Africa From £800pp per day in the Middle East Price estimates are based on per day costs which include guides, drivers and logistics, as well as hotels.
“Offering ancient and mythical history, dramatic desert landscapes, rich marine wildlife and a diverse, hospitable culture - the Middle East and North Africa offers a sense of timeless romance.“ 19
Middle East & North Africa TH E HIGHLIGHTS OF EGYPT AND JORDAN
TRAVELLER PROFILE: Three couples from the US. An active group of friends in their mid 60’s to early 70’s who travel together frequently. They have a keen interest in history, architecture and culture. They want their guides to be experts in their fields.
ITINERARY DETAIL: • 2 countries • 14 nights • £15,000 per person
DAY 1-4: Cairo, Egypt The dynamic metropolis of Cairo is an exciting blend of historical and contemporary offerings and it is where you will start your cultural odyssey. Whilst visiting the Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza you will step back in time with your Egyptologist guide who will paint the picture of a bygone era and colour your journey ahead. The calm spaciousness of the St Regis will be welcome respite after a day reliving history.
DAY 4-5: Luxor, Egypt Resting on the east bank of the Nile River, the city of Luxor is renowned for its many well-preserved monuments, so much so that it has been described as the one of the world’s greatest open-air museums. You’ll stay at Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa and with your guide you’ll visit Karnak and Luxor Temples, as well as the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.
DAY 5-10: Nile River, Egypt For the next sector of your adventure it is time to slow down the pace and be enchanted by the call of the Nile aboard a Nour El Nil dahabiya. Immerse yourself in luxury as you gracefully sail on a traditional riverboat to Aswan; indulging in exceptional service and delightful cuisine along the way. Discover the timeless beauty of Egypt’s landscapes, from lush greenery to golden desert dunes. Explore ancient temples and tombs, marvelling at the grandeur. Engage in cultural experiences, from traditional music to insightful conversations with knowledgeable guides.
DAY 12-14: Wadi Rum, Jordan Nestled amidst the otherworldly landscapes of the desert, Bedu Hideaway Camp offers a unique and immersive experience hosted by local Bedouins. This isolated camp provides the perfect backdrop come night for our local astronomer to guide you through the stories written in the stars.
DAY 10-12: Petra, Jordan Following the route of ancient nomads and merchants, you’ll transit from one important historical region to another. A local historian will guide you through the history, beauty and architectural brilliance of this UNESCO site in a captivating seminar at the perfectly located Movenpick Petra. The next day visit the ancient city of Petra, carved into rose-coloured rock, and see it unveil the intricate architecture and story of the Nabataeans.
DAY 14-15: Amman, Jordan Close off this chapter of travel at Ritz Carlton Amman. Explore the citadel with an expert archaeological guide and see the culturally significant Dead Sea Scrolls in person at the Jordan Museum. Finish your journey with dinner at the No.1 rated restaurant in all of the Middle East.
Asia T H E A R T O F T R AV E L
Asia South East Asia: Thailand; Vietnam; Laos; Cambodia; Singapore; Indonesia; Malaysia; Borneo; Philippines. Indian Subcontinent: India; Sri Lanka; Maldives; Bhutan; Nepal. North Asia: Japan; Hong Kong; Mongolia; China. From £600pp per day (Japan or Bhutan from £1,000pp per day) Price estimates are based on per day costs which include guides, drivers and logistics, as well as hotels.
“The enchanting pulse of Asia offers a hypnotising travel experience. See neon cities come alive at night, golden sand beaches glitter in tropical sun, and winding rice fields roll along distant horizons.” 23
Asia INDOCHINA HONEYMOON
TRAVELLER PROFILE: A couple from the UK in their 30’s. Their first time in Asia since backpacking at university, they want a luxurious (but authentic) honeymoon where they don’t have to lift a finger. Alongside typical tours, they want as many food based experiences as possible.
ITINERARY DETAIL: • 3 countries • 16 nights • £9,000 per person
DAY 1-3: Hanoi, Vietnam Begin your honeymoon in Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital city and experience exceptional hospitality at La Siesta Premium Hang Be. Explore the bustling streets, immerse yourselves in the rich culture, and experience the city’s historical and modern highlights. Tour the markets with a local chef and then join them in their kitchen for a private cooking class to discover traditional ingredients and techniques. DAY 3-4: Ninh Binh, Vietnam Escape to tranquil Ninh Binh, renowned for its natural beauty. Surrounded by serene landscapes, stay at Tam Coc Garden to explore ancient caves and traditional villages. DAY 4-5: Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam Continue your journey aboard Heritage Line Ginger, indulging in exquisite onboard dining while gliding through picturesque waterways and marvelling at the stunning limestone formations.
DAY 5-7: Hoi An, Vietnam Arrive in the charming town of Hoi An and settle into Anantara Hoi An Resort, a peaceful retreat where heritage meets serenity. Explore the town’s ancient architecture, meander through lantern-lit streets, and discover vibrant local markets. Enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and unwind on beautiful nearby beaches.
DAY 10-13: Luang Prabang, Laos
DAY 7-10: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Embark on an exciting evening Vespa tour, zipping through the vibrant streets and tasting delicious street food. Retreat to Hotel des Arts Saigon, an urban oasis in the heart of the Ho Chi Minh City. Then discover the city’s history and resilience at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating underground network from the Vietnam War era.
Satri House offers a tranquil retreat for captivating the culture and natural wonders of Luang Prabang. Discover its hidden gems on a bicycle tour. Indulge in a delightful picnic breakfast at Kuang Si Waterfall. Witness the beauty of the city during a private sunrise cruise on the Nava Song. DAY 13-17: Khao Lak, Thailand Conclude your honeymoon in picturesque Khao Lak. Relax and unwind at a tranquil beachside retreat. Enjoy leisurely walks along golden shores, swim in the crystalclear waters, and embrace the beauty of the surrounding nature. The Sarojin provides a serene and romantic setting for your final days of bliss.
Australasia T H E A R T O F T R AV E L
Australasia Australia; New Zealand; Fiji; French Polynesia; Cook Islands. From £850pp per day Price estimates are based on per day costs which include guides, drivers and logistics, as well as hotels.
“With dramatic scenery that varies from mountainous snowy peaks, desert landscapes and underwater playgrounds, this diverse part of the world is perfect for those that revel in the great outdoors.” 27
Australasia UNCOVER AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEAL AND
TRAVELLER PROFILE: A family of four from the US; the last family holiday before College. They are an active family who want to be on the go to get the most out of a short trip. Want to see iconic sights as well as a few off-the-beaten-path experiences.
ITINERARY DETAIL: • 2 countries • 16 nights • £14,500 per person
DAY 1-4: Melbourne, Australia Your adventure begins in Melbourne, a vibrant city blending culture and charm. Stay at Park Hyatt Melbourne and explore Federation Square and Queen Victoria Market. Embark on a memorable journey along the Great Ocean Road, witnessing stunning coastal landscapes and the majestic Twelve Apostles.
DAY 4-7: Wolgan Valley, Australia The secluded beauty of Wolgan Valley is a hidden gem in the Australian wilderness and Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is the place to stay. Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, experience the wonders of the valley with guided nature walks, horseback riding and wildlife safaris. Give back and get your hands dirty with tree-planting, habitat restoration and water-testing.
DAY 7-10: Sydney, Australia Australia’s iconic harbour city of Sydney is a playground for all and The Langham is perfectly located to dive into the dynamic atmosphere. With your local guide you’ll visit trendy neighbourhoods, sample delicious cuisine and catch a wave or two.
DAY 12-15: Rotorua, New Zealand DAY 10-12: Waiheke Island, New Zealand To kick off the New Zealand section of your adventure we have chosen The Boatshed on Waiheke Island, a scenic paradise just a short ferry ride from Auckland. Explore the island’s stunning beaches, vineyards, and art galleries. Indulge in gourmet food and fine wines, and take leisurely walks to appreciate the island’s natural beauty at a slower pace.
Fly south to experience Rotorua’s cultural richness at Solitaire Lodge. Witness the mesmerising geothermal wonders on an evening tour of Te Puia and immerse yourselves in the region’s vibrant heritage with a Maori guide to learn about their history and customs. Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Lake Tarawera on a fishing expedition; and marvel at the less natural world-famous movie set of Hobbiton. DAY 15-17: Auckland, New Zealand The final stop of your family holiday is at the Park Hyatt in the cosmopolitan city of Auckland. With energy to spare, head out on the water to kayak or paddleboard. Cycle along waterfront paths, visit the hiking trails in Waitakere Ranges, and make the most of your time together at beautiful beaches.
Latin America T H E A R T O F T R AV E L
Latin America Central America: Mexico; Costa Rica; Belize; Guatemala; Panama; Nicaragua; El Salvador; Honduras; Domincan Republic; Cuba South America: Argentina; Peru; Brazil; Bolivia; Chile; Colombia; Ecuador & The Galapagos; Uruguay From £600pp per day (The Galapagos from £900pp per day) Price estimates are based on per day costs which include guides, drivers and logistics, as well as hotels.
“A continent full of contrasts, Latin America will charm you with an array of natural and cultural wonders - think snow-capped mountains, blissful beaches, tropical rainforests and ancient civilisations.“ 31
Latin America TH E BEST OF CHILE, ARGENTINA & BRAZIL
TRAVELLER PROFILE: A couple from the UK in their 40’s looking for a celebratory trip. Having been to Peru, they want to visit new regions of the continent. They are particularly interested in culture and seeing a mix of cities and nature; as well as trekking and trying local food and wine.
ITINERARY DETAIL: • 3 countries • 19 nights • £15,350 per person
DAY 1-4: Santiago, Chile Start your celebrations in Chile’s vibrant, cosmopolitan, capital city of Santiago. Stay at Hotel Cumbres Lastarria and uncover the secrets of the city with a local guide. Spend a day in the beautiful, bohemian hillside port city of Valparaiso and get hands on with a private cooking class creating and tasting traditional Chilean dishes.
DAY 4-8: Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile Known for its spectacular beauty, Torres Del Paine National Park is a rich biosphere reserve in Chile’s Patagonian region. Think snow-capped mountains, ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls and golden grasslands. Explora Patagonia is anchored like a ship by Lake Pehoé and is perfectly located for exploring the spectacular landscapes on foot or horseback.
DAY 8-10: El Calafate, Argentina Deep in Patagonia’s snow-capped vistas you will cross into Argentina for a stay at Los Ponchos Hotel. Spend your morning discovering Perito Moreno glacier and in the afternoon visit one of the traditional estancias to learn about local culture.
DAY 13-15: Iguazu Falls, Brazil
DAY 10-13: Buenos Aires, Argentina Buenos Aires is a thriving portside capital defined by a rich history, lively culture, and strong European influence. Stay in central Palermo at Legado Mitico for the perfect base to return to after your tango class, food tour and day out at a local estancia for a true gaucho experience.
We have chosen for you to stay at the exclusive Hotel das Cataratas, as it is the only hotel situated within the Iguazu National Park. Take to the sky during the day for a birds eye view of the Falls; and in the evening, when the park is closed to other visitors, you can enjoy exclusive access to this magnificent sight. DAY 15-20: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil The final stop on your celebratory adventure is for some relaxation on the golden coast of Rio. Superbly positioned overlooking the sea, the Belmond Copacabana Palace is a glamorous landmark that has been welcoming the rich and famous since its Art Deco doors swung open in 1923. Spend one full day exploring the city and seeing famous sites, such as Christ the Redeemer, and then indulge in nothing but food, wine and rest before returning home.
Polar T H E AR T O F T R AV E L
Polar Antarctic: Antarctica; South Georgia; Subantarctic Islands. Arctic: Greenland; Svalbard; Northwest Passage; Iceland; Lapland. From £600pp per day in the Arctic From £1,100pp per day in Antarctica Price estimates are based on per day costs which include guides, drivers and logistics, as well as hotels.
“There’s an otherworldliness to being surrounded by only snow and ice blue glaciers in the Polar regions, but the adventure is rewarded with the resounding sense of peace that comes with isolation.”
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Polar ANTARCTIC PENINSUL A IN DEPTH
TRAVELLER PROFILE: A couple from the US in their 60’s. They are frequent travellers who love wildlife and photography. Antarctica is a bucket list trip but they don’t want to spend weeks onboard and would like downtime afterwards. They like boutique cruises and want expert guides to talk them through the experience.
ITINERARY DETAIL: • 2 countries • 20 nights • £20,400 per person
DAY 1-3: Ushuaia, Argentina Before embarking on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of the southernmost region of the world, discover the history of the weatherbeaten town of Ushuaia where countless expeditions to Antarctica have begun. Explore the leather markets and enjoy beautiful vantage points of the mountain scenery over delicious meals in the world’s most southerly city, staying at Arakur Resort and Spa.
DAY 3-17: Sylvia Earle, Antarctic Starting your expedition, set sail from Ushuaia onboard the brand new Sylvia Earle ship. We’ve chosen this ship for you as it is a small expedition ship which has a Ulstein X-Bow® hull making sailing smoother and faster. On board you will be joined by a highly qualified and experienced expedition team and crew.
DAY 3-17: Sylvia Earle, Antarctic The Antarctic Peninsula is a bustling ecosystem of wildlife as animals emerge from the depths of winter. But despite the frenetic pace of life for the locals, you have ample time to immerse yourself in the wonders of the surrounding environment as the ship will cruise around the islands of the Antarctic Peninsula for nine days. Guided by the experienced Expedition Team, each day’s activities will be carefully curated based on weather, ice conditions, and wildlife encounters.
Enjoy Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. While ashore, you can stroll along the beach and photograph the wildlife and the magnificent scenery, visit penguin rookeries and discover historical huts. In the downtime, you can enjoy talks in the stateof-the-art lecture theatre, and brush up on your knowledge in the science centre and library. After uncovering hidden treasures across the peninsula, and creating extraordinary memories in this breathtaking wilderness, you’ll head back to Ushuaia to disembark.
DAY 17-21: San Antonio de Areco, Argentina The charming 18th-century town of San Antonio de Areco is infused with the gaucho lifestyle and traditions and is easily accessible from Buenos Aires. Explore the vast, picturesque landscape on horseback or enjoy leisurely walks to embrace the serenity of the countryside. Indulge in delectable Argentine cuisine, savouring traditional dishes and fine wines. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of Estancia La Bamba de Areco, where history and tradition blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable retreat in the heart of Argentina’s countryside.
The Tailor Process FIND YOURSELF LOST IN EARTH’S BEAUT Y Once you have finalised your itinerary with your Designer, you will be introduced to your Travel Tailor. Together, your Designer and Tailor will work as a team to fine tune your itinerary as much, or as little, as you like. We want you to discover diverse and extraordinary experiences that colour your world with new sights, sounds, scents and memories; without having to worry about whether that reservation has been made, or those tickets bought. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the luxury of end-to-end perfection, with every little detail taken care of and made personal.
The art of travel
Testimonials The strongest testament of what we do lies within the praises sung by our clients on their return. Over 380 5* reviews from our clients won us the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for 2023. And this is not a one off. To even be considered for Platinum status, you must achieve Gold standard for three years running. We are very proud that this prestigious award ranks True Travel in the top 50 of over 6000 companies that use the independent Feefo platform.
‘EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE AND EXPERT ADVICE’ “True Travel are an exceptional, customer focused business. Their service from initial contact to conclusion of your holiday is first class. Their expertise in the the Countries where they operate enables them to perfectly tailor the trip to your requirements. We have undertaken 2 trips organised by True Travel and both have been incredible holidays that we will remember for a lifetime. Everyone I have dealt with in the company portrays the same incredible values and great knowledge. I would highly recommend them to everyone who is interested in undertaking a premium, tailored travel experience.”
- James L. (UK)
‘A DELIGHT FOR ALL YOUR SENSES’ “We used True Travel services for our recent trip to Vietnam based on the recommendation of a friend. We worked with Peter Trangmar and he did an incredible job! He took the time to understand what our family likes to do and the kind of experiences we were looking for and he carefully crafted an itinerary that covered everything we were hoping and more. Since we were only able to spend 8 days in Vietnam, we wanted to see as much as we could without feeling overly rushed. Peter’s itinerary struck the perfect balance. The local guides he set us up with were absolutely amazing. We left Vietnam having fallen in love with the people, the culture, the food, and the sites. It was a very memorable trip that our family will cherish for years to come!”
- Nahal D. (USA)
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Our Foundation In 2016 the True Travel Foundation was created with one clear mission: ensure the funds we raise together with our clients make an actual difference to those in need, by seeking and supporting grassroot projects around the world. We strongly believe that it is up to those of us in the travel industry to lead from the front and help navigate our clients through their planning, so they are confident that they are making a tangible, positive impact with their travel. Since the Foundation’s inception we have supported three leading charitable projects who focus on community outreach, education and marine restoration. These projects are The Female Empowerment Programme in rural Zambia, The Rucksack Project in Jaipur, India and Seawilding on the west coast of Scotland. At True Travel we have always wanted to find solutions; not simply to help our clients offset their carbon emissions from their travels, but to go further and ensure they can have a carbon negative and climate positive impact. Each year, we will continue our commitment to donate to the projects that we have chosen to support, all of which the team at True Travel are particularly connected to and passionate about.
Taking care of the future
Our Projects SEAWILDING Seawilding is pioneering the regeneration of seagrass meadows throughout the UK in order to restore lost biodiversity, sequester carbon and create green jobs for the local community.
THE FEMALE EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME The Female Empowerment Programme offers extra support to young girls in rural Zambia through academic workshops, extra-curricular opportunities and empowering education.
THE RUCKSACK PROJECT The Rucksack Project is a collaboration with Taabar Shelter, an NGO that helps children who either found themselves living on the streets or were forced into child labour.
OUR FOUNDATION ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • £25,000 donated to Seawilding, to train four divers in seagrass replanting • Over 841 children in Jaipur provided with essential resources through the Rucksack Project • Fully funded 26 young girls to join the Female Empowerment Programme in Zambia • Over £40,000 donated to global projects through the Foundation • £100,000 target set to raise for Seawilding in 2023 • Offering every client the opportunity to wholly offset the carbon emissions of their trip, working towards our net-zero commitment
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Discover more ELEVATE LONDON Alongside celebrating our 10th anniversary, 2023 has seen us launch a dedicated on-the-ground concierge service in London with access to the best guides our country has to offer. Alongside our privately guided specialist tours, we have hand-crafted a selection of ‘off-the-books’ tours, exclusive to True Travel. These have been curated from our personal contacts to give our guests an inimitable experience in London.
CONCIERGE INCLUSIONS •
Meet and Greet with True Travel host at your hotel
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9am - 11pm local WhatsApp contact (reservations, amendments to reservations, queries about the itinerary)
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VIP Airport Arrival & Departure
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Room Upgrades subject to availability
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Lost Luggage Service
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Tailored Dossier
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Invitations to Talks & Private Viewings
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Personalised Welcome Amenity
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Family Fun Pack
TRUE TRAVEL TIMES The True Travel Times is an annual publication full of expert travel insight and inspiration from around the world. It is designed to give its readers a snapshot of the year gone by and the year ahead in the world of travel; as well as showcase the leading hoteliers, destinations and itineraries to inspire future travel plans.
1 S T ED IT IO N , 2 0 2 0
2 N D E D I T I O N , 2 02 1
READ THE FIRST THREE EDITIONS ONLINE
3 R D ED IT ION , 2 0 2 2
4 T H EDIT ION, 20 23 (COMING SOON)
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info@true.travel | +44 (0) 203 642 9893 | www.true.travel
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