Chinese Whispers Mar 2016

Chinese Whispers MARCH 2016

48 hours in Hong Kong

Make the most of your time

Going it alone?

New solo departures Group Tours vs Private Tours We help you decide which is best for you Travel Tales 'off the beaten track'

by Christine Marshall Pandaw River Expeditions Exploring Asia’s waterways New Destinations South America & South Africa Classic Tours • Discovery Tours • Deluxe Tours • River Cruising • Private Tours • Tailor-Made Itineraries China • Vietnam • India • Cambodia • Laos • Japan • Thailand • Sri Lanka • Myanmar • Tibet • Mongolia • Bhutan Nepal • Sikkim • Hong Kong • Singapore • Borneo • Taiwan • South Korea • Maldives • South Africa • South America

Wendy’s Message It has been a great start to the year, especially as I was able to make a visit to Australia in January, (needed to escape the British winter) and was so happy to be able to enjoy some sunshine. I was also pleased to see the team hard at work, putting together our biggest edition ever of Chinese Whispers.

With so much to tell you about and so much going on behind the scenes, this HUGE issue is full of great stories, magical inspiration and fantastic offers.

were so excited upon returning from their trip, that they wanted to share the stories from their adventure (along with their beautiful images) with all their family and friends. We decided to take this one step further and share their pictures and stories with you!

If you would like to share your story or have some outstanding images that you are happy for us to share, please send them through to social@wendywutours.com.au and you may just find yourself published in our next edition of Chinese Whispers.

Happy reading everyone and we hope we have inspired you to start thinking about your next Asia adventure.

We are also pleased to have one of our loyal customers involved in this edition. Mr and Mrs Pass travelled with us to Vietnam in 2015 and

Cover image: Hong Kong harbour

It’s all about you…

LOYA LT Y D I S CO U N T S

REFER A FRIEND

C U S TO M E R E V E N T S

We know that many of you like to travel with us year after year and with so many fantastic new tours to new destinations, why wouldn’t you. On your next fully inclusive group tour or Deluxe holiday you will enjoy a loyalty discount.

Find yourself returning from your trip with similar comments to Mr and Mrs Dagan who travelled on Angkor to the Bay last year:

In April, Wendy Wu Tours are coming to venues near you for a series of information events.

2nd group tour

SAVE $100 pp

3rd, 4th and 5th group tour

SAVE $200 pp

6th or more group tour

SAVE $300 pp

Note: Our loyalty discount does not apply to tailor-made itineraries, independent travel, special groups, or our Simply range of tours.

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Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

“We look forward to sharing all our photos and stories with our family and friends and have no hesitation in promoting Wendy Wu across these countries for organised tours” We value all of our Wu ambassadors, and we would like to reward you for referring your friends to Wendy Wu Tours. As a token of appreciation, if your friend mentions your name and booking number at the time of booking, we will send you a hamper filled with delicious treats, delivered to your door!

Refer as many friends as you like – there’s no limit!

Designed to inspire you and provide you with all the information you need to book your next Asia adventure, our team will be chatting through our tours and current offers, and answering all your questions.

So if you're thinking of taking your next Asia adventure, our information events are a great way to see all the ways you can enjoy these incredible countries.

Find out more and book your place at: wendywutours.com.au/events

WHAT’S

NEW?

WHAT’S

INSIDE

New Maldives & Singapore brochure out now!

PAG E S 4 – 5

Pandaw River Expeditions

There are thirty-four idyllic resorts within our new Maldives & Singapore brochure, and we are here to help you select the perfect resort for your idyllic getaway.

Journey along Southeast Asia’s waterways.

PAG E 6

Let us Guide you

New Asia River Cruising brochure out now!

An interview with one of our most experienced National Escorts: Bruce Song.

Whether you prefer to travel independently or as part of a group, join Wendy Wu Tours for a journey through Asia’s incredible waterways.

PAG E S 8 – 9

New Destinations New Along Ho Chi Minh Trail Tour

Explore South Africa and South American on our new tours.

24 days from $6,290pp twin share Departing Syd, Mel & Per 24 days from $6,590pp twin share Departing Bne, Adl & Cbr Experience Vietnam’s web of roads, tracks and footpaths that had once been the support of the Vietnam War. Formerly a 12,000 mile labyrinth that spread through Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Today the Trail is fast being swallowed by time and nature. This tour takes you on an adventure from Halong Bay in the north, through the rice terraces of Sapa, across the border to Laos before returning to Vietnam and finishing in Hoi An. See our website for the full itinerary and details.

Sapa rice terraces

PAG E S 1 4 – 1 5

Customer Corner Mr and Mrs Pass tell us all about their recent Deluxe tour of Vietnam. © Colin Pass

PAG E S 1 6 – 1 7

Focus on: Northeast Asia Learn all about Japan, South Korea and Taiwan

PAG E 18

Travel Tales 48 hours in Hong Kong Plus our special offer: FREE HONG KONG STOPOVER wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

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PANDAW RIVER EXPEDITIONS Discover the amazing history of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company on a Pandaw River Expedition and enjoy an authentic exploration of Asia's waterways.

W

endy Wu Tours partnership with Pandaw River Expeditions has been further cemented with the launch of our new Asia River Cruising brochure featuring many of Pandaw’s extraordinary river adventures.

The Pandaw story began 150 years ago when the then Scottish Irrawaddy Flotilla Company built and operated colonial style river ships on Myanmar’s great rivers. Just before the 2nd World War, there were in fact 640 Irrawaddy steamers in Myanmar – the largest inland fleet of ships in the world. Sadly, when the Japanese invaded Myanmar, the management of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company sank the whole fleet as an act of defiance to stop the ships being taken by the Japanese.

On discovering this incredible story in 1995, Pandaw’s founder Paul Strachan began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River on a ship modeled on the old Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers. The cruises immediately took off and today Pandaw has grown to operate 15 river ships in Myanmar and Indochina.

Irrawaddy Flotilla Company

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Authentic experiences, great value for money and colonial-style luxury is what sets Pandaw

apart from other river operators in Asia. Each Pandaw ship is built in stylish teak and brass, with stunning public areas, observation decks, indoor dining rooms, library and shop. The Mekong Pandaw also has its own cinema and spa. Each ship has spacious air-conditioned en-suite staterooms with sliding doors and stunning river views. For 2016 the Mekong Pandaw and Pandaw 2 ships offer suites with 360 sq ft of space, a private balcony, lounge and many extras including your own Espresso machine.

The cuisine on a Pandaw ship is exceptional with an expat team of culinary experts working with local chefs to create a wonderful range of Asian fusion dishes and International cuisine.

Most ships even have a bakery on board! On Pandaw owned cruises, unlimited tea, coffee, local soft drinks, local beer and local spirits are included in the price.

Local Wildlife

Pandaw’s service is legendary with no request too small; clients enjoy the highest staff to guest ratio in the industry and all crew gratuities are included in the price. A Pandaw cruise is ideal for couples and single travellers alike.

The included excursions offer fascinating immersion into the culture and history of each river stop, be it a walking tour of a local village, exploring independently by bicycle, perhaps a pony cart ride to a local temple or visit to a local market. Led by local knowledgeable tour guides, you will feel inspired and humbled by the people you meet and the places you visit.

Stateroom on Katha Pandaw

Excellent onboard service

Pandaw also runs a charity supporting 7 clinics in Myanmar; over the years over 250,000 locals have received free treatment. Plus Pandaw supports schools in Myanmar and Indochina and used her ships to help in the relief effort for Cyclone Nargis in 2008 and more recently in the floods in August 2015.

Pandaw pioneered luxury river cruises both in Myanmar and in 2003 on the Mekong from Saigon to Siem Reap. The journeys range from classic cruises on the Irrawaddy or Mekong Rivers to more adventurous expeditions where the ultra-low draft vessels sail further ‘off the beaten track’ than other operators on the Chindwin River in Myanmar, the Upper Mekong from Vientiane in Laos to Jinghong in China’s Yunnan Province or on the Red and Da Rivers exploring Northern Vietnam.

Whatever Wendy Wu Tour (including a Pandaw River Expedition) you choose, you will enjoy the journey of a lifetime full of authentic and joyful experiences.

For more information, order our new Asia River Cruising brochure, featuring all the Pandaw River Expeditions.

Take me there!

Irrawaddy Voyager

7,180

$

12 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne & Adl The Irrawaddy is Myanmar's main highway with many locals living and working on its banks. Experience a side of the country that many have yet to explore from the comfort of an elegant Pandaw cruise sailing from Mandalay to Bagan.

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

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LET US GUIDE YOU One of our most experienced National Escorts, Bruce Song, has been showing Wendy Wu Tours’ customers all over China for seven years. Here, he shares his insider knowledge and top tips, as well as his passion and enthusiasm for his homeland.

Yunnan handicrafts

What’s the best thing about being a National Escort? Showing my clients my motherland makes me so proud and is something I’ll never tire of. I really enjoy getting to know my clients, hearing their interesting stories and sharing a joke or two.

Being a National Escort requires passion and enthusiasm – and when I hear how I’ve helped to make my clients’ holidays memorable for all the right reasons that makes it all worthwhile.

Where do you like visiting in China the most? Nowadays it’s so hard to actually just be in ‘the moment’ and focus on the here and now rather than where you will be visiting next or what happened yesterday, but Dali in the Yunnan Province always amazes me. Watch the world go by in the Old Town whilst facing the Cang Mountain, visit the Three Pagodas or pick up some local handicrafts at a local market. Dali is a wonderful city to simply soak up the local culture and forget about everything else. For me, it is not just about the destination, but the experiences that enrich you along the way.

Are there any undiscovered areas in China that you would recommend visiting?

Nujiang in the northwest of the Yunnan Province is still very untouched. There are 55 ethnic minorities within China and Nujiang is home to the Dulong Minority, one of the smallest of the groups. Life here is lived very simply; most locals live in a hut without any electricity. When visiting this region, you’ll come out appreciating the simple things in life and will realise what you take for granted! It’s lovely to sit back and watch the local people 6

– at night they sit by a campfire and sing and dance together – it looks like so much fun! It’s also filled with beautiful countryside here, with plenty of hiking trails and winding rivers to choose from, so don’t miss out on these. Places like these really expand your way of thinking – many of us become so used to city living, we forget about how the other half live, but places like this make us remember. on Nujiang Cany

What’s your favourite Chinese dish?

Nothing beats my mum’s cooking! I love spending time with my family and us all having dinner together. My all-time favourite is my mum’s prawn dumplings.

Being from Xian, do you have any insider tips on where to visit in this city? Of course, no visit to Xian would be complete without a visit to the Terracotta Warriors! But I would also recommend paying a visit to the Hanyangling Museum, which really delves into some of our fascinating history – in particular Emperor Jingdi who was the fourth Emperor of Han Dynasty over 1,500 years ago. You’ll get up close to the emperor’s tomb as well as seeing a number of ancient relics – which are covered by glass on the ground that you can walk over.

I think it has a mysterious environment. It is also worth taking a walk through the markets of the Muslim Quarter – here you will find many food stalls – and some of which are interesting eats to say the least! You get to see local people catching up with friends and going about their everyday lives here, somewhere to soak up the local atmosphere and culture.

Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

Prawn dumplings

Take me there!

Yunnan Adventure

5,540

$

17 days from pp twin share Departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Explore all the highlights of the Yunnan Province as described by Bruce on this Discovery Tour.

Group Tours vs Private Tours Which type of touring is right for you?

You could spend an entire lifetime exploring all the regions of Asia, with many areas that were once out-of-bounds to visitors now open to the world. With easier access, a wide selection of accommodation options and most importantly, more ways to experience your chosen destination, it can be quite daunting to know where to begin!

Having part or all of your holiday organised in advance saves you time and energy whilst away, and allows you to fit so much more into your trip. The first step, however, would be to decide whether you want to take a group tour or a private tour?

I S A G R O U P TO U R R I G H T F O R YO U ?

I S A P R I VAT E TO U R R I G H T F O R YO U ?

We want you to enjoy your holiday of a lifetime without the worry of arranging travel as you go, so we include everything in our Fully Inclusive Classic group tours allowing you to sit back and relax on tour.

We love to share our knowledge and expertise with travellers like you, but we know that group touring is not for everyone, so we want to give you the option to tailor a holiday to suit you.

Joining a group of fellow travellers adds a social aspect to your holiday, especially if you are travelling by yourself. Lifelong friendships are often forged – with many customers meeting up all over the world after their trip together!

Maybe you want to experience every moment alongside your partner or maybe you just like the freedom of travelling solo. A private tour allows you to not only choose all your travel arrangements, but choose your travel companion/s too.

With many years experience, we are attuned with the types of hotels you are looking for and the best locations in each city. All our group tours include ‘medium range’ accommodation in the tour price, all you need to do is unwind and relax.

All your transport is arranged for you on your group tour, so there is no need to be worried about how you will get to the airport or how you will navigate the public transport system. We even include international flights.

With so many cuisines and so many restaurants, street stalls, markets, cafes and more to choose from, we want to make meal times as hassle free as possible, therefore on our group tours, all meals are included.

FRIENDS

ACCO M M O D AT I O N

TRANSPORT

MEALS

At the heart of our group tours are our guides. They ensure you see all the attractions, skip to the front of all the lines, share their stories and local knowledge and guide you through their home countries.

On a private tour, the choice of accommodation is yours. We can recommend many different options ranging from homestays and boutique resorts to five star hotels, depending on your budget and preference, the choice is yours.

We know that sometimes you may want to take the scenic route and travel by train, or you may simply want to use those frequent flyer points that you have been saving up for years. On private tours, you can choose all your transport arrangements.

Peking duck, pho, butter chicken, the options are endless and all part of the experience of travelling through Asia. On private tours, you can choose to have all or just some of your meals included. For everything else, you can decide as you go.

When it comes to guides, it’s great to have the best of both worlds. Choose when you think you may need a little helping hand (like on your first day) or when you would like to venture off on your own.

GUIDES

Take me there!

A China Experience, group tour

Take me there!

A China Experience, private tour

10 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive of international flights, accommodation, all meals, touring with guides and entrance fees and visas for Australian passport holders, departing Syd, Mel, Bne & Per

10 days from pp twin share Includes accommodation, some touring, English-speaking driver-guide, entrance fees and some meals.

3,370

$

3,070

$

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

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Enjoy the Wendy Wu experience

IN SOUTH AMERICA AND SOUTH AFRICA!

Lions in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Tabletop Mountain, Cape Town

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Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

ays loved to you have alw rs a ndy ye e th r e Ov enjoy the We u yo h c u m w erything tell us just ho ve having ev lo u o Y . e c n e assle Wu experi ve, you like h a le u yo re fo away organised be laxing when re d n a ys a e back free holid ides. You com u g r u o E V ndy and you LO enjoy the We to g n ti n a w , We’ve lost wanting more ewhere else. m so e c n e ri heard Wu expe times we’ve f o r e b m u n tries count of the tours to coun ke ta u yo o – “d the question . ?” a outside Asi swer is YES! Now the an nd, Wendy stomer dema u c to se n o exciting In resp offer two new to d u ro p is America, Wu Tours a and South ic fr A th u o S Wu Tours itineraries, to y the Wendy jo n e to u yo et that allowing inations. So g st e d w e n in cent experience some magnifi e v a h e w – y ad d-off bucket list re ing to be ticke it a w d n a y d sights rea your list.

Picchu  Machu iticaca  Lake T eiro , Rio de Jan h c a e B a n a ab  Copac Paz pital city, La a c st e h ig h  World’s Falls  Iguazu rk National Pa  Kruger ica te, South Afr u o R n e rd a  G eries African win  South d ul Swazilan  Colourf

Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat, Cambodia

✓

Enjoy the Terracotta Warriors, China

✓

South America is an amazing continent to visit.

It’s a continent full of indigenous and colonial cultures, ancient monuments, ruins and history, all accompanied by great food and wine, Latin flair and of course football. For the first time traveller there are so many places to tick off the bucket list, and on our new South American Trails tour, we will help you along the way.

Start your tour in Lima with a city tour, then fly to UNESCO World Heritage listed Cusco. Travel through mountainous landscapes on your way to a highlight of this tour: Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas’.

The tour then includes visits to the Sacred Valley, and the shores of Lake Titicaca before visiting the highest city in the world, La Paz. Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital, with irresistible Latin flair. Visit Iguazu Falls, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, with viewings from two sides of the falls. Lastly, a trip to South America would not be complete without a PERU visit to Rio de Janeiro, Outbound BRAZIL Cusco (2N) the ‘Marvelous City’, Lima (4N) BOLIVIA (1N) Lake Titicaca (1N) where you can soak Puno La Paz (1N) (1N) up the sunshine on Iguazu Copacabana Beach or (2N) Rio de Janeiro CHILE look down over the (2N) city from Corcovado URUGUAY Buenos Aires Mountain.

(3N) HONDURAS

NICARAGUA

PANAMA

GUYANA

PARAGUAY

Maximum

4,435m altitude

ARGENTINA

AIR COACH

Marvel at the Taj Mahal, India

Walk on the Great Wall, China

✓

South Africa presents an intricate blend of cultures and landscapes to allure you. It is here that you can witness African wildlife at its best, drink awardwinning wines, explore South Africa’s cosmopolitan cities and relax on golden beaches.

Begin your South African adventure in Johannesburg, a cosmopolitan city within which lies the colourful township of Soweto, the former home of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Escape the city hustle and bustle and head to Kruger National Park which boasts an unrivalled array of animals and stunning landscapes. Pop over the border to Swaziland, and enjoy this small nation’s fantastic scenery and Swazi culture. Then drive to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve for another safari in one of the oldest wildlife parks in Africa. Enjoy a cruise through Africa’s largest estuarine system, encountering hippos, crocodiles and many birds. Fly from Durban to Port Elizabeth to begin your journey along the garden route stopping at pristine beaches, an elephant sanctuary and an ostrich farm.

Sample some of the award-winning wines on a cape winelands Kruger National Park (2N) tour before ending your tour in Cape Swaziland Johannesburg (1N) (2N) KwaZulu Town, the ‘Mother City’, Natal (2N) Outbound backed by towering Durban (1N) (1N) Table Mountain and Oudtshoorn (1N) surrounded by pristine Port Elizabeth (1N) Plettenberg Cape Bay (2N) Town (3N) beaches.

ZAMBIA

MALAWI

ANGOLA

MOÇAMBIQUE

ZIMBABWE

AIR COACH

NAMIBIA

BOTSWANA

SOUTH AFRICA

Take me there!

South American Trails

South African Trails

18 days from pp twin share Departing Syd, Mel, Bne, & Adl

17 days from pp twin share Departing Syd, Mel, Bne & Adl

12,960

$

13,680pp twin share

$

18 days from Departing Per

Machu Picchu, Peru

✓

Includes: • International flights and current taxes • Domestic transportation • Accommodation • All meals • Touring with guides and entrance fees

8,490

$

Includes: • International flights and current taxes • Domestic transportation • Accommodation • All meals • Touring with guides and entrance fees

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

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TRAVEL TALES

BY CHRISTINE MARSHALL

Christine Marshall has been managing tours to many of our ‘off the beaten track’ destinations for several years. Having travelled on over 25 group tours, escorting over 300 passengers to some far flung destinations, she certainly has plenty of insider knowledge to share on her next adventure.

Here she opens up about her experiences over the years and her ‘Wendy Wu family’.

goda, Shwedagon Pa ar Myanm

Breakfast on the Road to Samarkand

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Locals at Lokhang Tem ple,

Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

Nepal

“Wow! What a great job you have!” Those are the most common words that come out of Wendy Wu Tours passengers mouths upon meeting me - closely followed by “How far to the hotel” or “Have I got time to go to the toilet?”

Usually my first encounter with our customers is at the airport on arrival at the start of their holiday so these questions are not unexpected. Overall feelings of excitement and anticipation are in the air.

Not only for the holidaymakers but for me too.

I love being a tour manager for Wendy Wu Tours and consider myself privileged to be able to meet so many interesting, knowledgeable and well travelled people.

I learn just as much from the customers as hopefully they learn from me. Most of the tours I travel with are of the more adventurous type, the not so well trodden tourist paths or those tours which are slightly more physically challenging - The Road to Samarkand, Himalayan Adventure, Himalayan Kingdoms and Mongolia and the Naadam Festival to name a few.

Having been to all these destinations many times - some of which I have been visiting since the 80’s, I still love showing people all my favourite special places and being able to give them insights into diverse cultures which sometimes the local staff don’t fully appreciate because they live with it every day. For example, who doesn’t love trying out the local transport whether it be a rickshaw in Nepal or a trip on the Metro system in Uzbekistan which, in my mind, is a ‘must’, just to explore the beautiful

In Nepal I always offer to take anyone who is interested into the foothills near Kathmandu to meet my friend, Guru Rinzen, an elderly Buddhist scholar who has spent the last 45 years living in a tiny monastery in the forest.

On the Road to Samarkand tour I can usually find a few people who will climb to the top of the highest minaret in Khiva with me. Following this we must visit what I consider the best little tea house in Central Asia to laze around on the traditional mattresses beside low set tables and drink plenty of green tea. You want to see life as it happens in the old walled city in Khiva? Follow me, I will show you where to scramble up onto the top of the wall so you can wander along and of course, seeing the sunset from the walls is well worth waiting for.

I get excited just thinking about all this and can’t wait to head off on my next adventure with my Wendy Wu family. And yes, that is what I have now, a lovely big extended family of people I love to travel with.

Christine with Daman

Take me there!

Road to Samarkand

DISCOVERY TOURS CHINA n TIBET n VIETNAM n CAMBODIA n LAOS n INDIA n NEPAL n CENTRAL ASIA n MONGOLIA 2016- 2017

stations, the likes of which we will never see in this country!

9,980

$

26 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne & Per Journey through the heart of Central Asia crossing beautiful deserts and mountain landscapes.

Himalayan Adventure

8,680

$

20 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Embark on a journey of extremes through Tibet, the roof of the world finishing in Nepal.

IMMERSIVE JOURNEYS INTO THE HEART OF ASIA

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

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HEAD TO HEAD Two of Asia’s great rivers go head to head in an attempt to blow each other out of the water...

YANGTZE RIVER

MEKONG RIVER

R I V E R FAC T S The Yangtze holds the title of Asia’s longest river (and the third longest in the world) at 6,300km, flowing right across China from its source amongst the cloud piercing mountains of the Tibetan plateau to its mouth in the East China Sea, near Shanghai. The Yangtze has a momentous place in China’s history and culture, creating fertile land and inspiring scenery.

R I V E R FAC T S The Mekong winds its way through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam for 4,350kms. Along the river banks, the land is incredibly fertile creating one of the richest areas of biodiversity on the planet with thousands of species calling its shores and waters home. Long an essential trade route, the Mekong passes through, or close to, some of the region’s most important cities – Vientiane, Phnom Penh and Saigon.

T H I N G S TO S E E Following the Yangtze from source to mouth would provide a fascinating chronicle of China’s past, but who has the time for that? Instead, try the middle section of the river, the Three Gorges region, which includes Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge. Each gorge is uniquely stunning, offering picturesque scenery, river banks lined with historical treasures, ancient temples and major cities, such as the old dynastic capital, Nanjing. The area is also known for the Three Gorges Dam, a great feat of engineering.

CRUISING It goes without saying that the best way to see this part of China is on a Yangtze River cruise. Most people opt for the 3 or 4 night cruises between Chongqing and Yichang which pass through the Three Gorges, stop regularly for fascinating shore excursions and allow you to enjoy the $ 16 days from pp twin share passing scenery.

Take me there!

Wonders of China

5,340

Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per

Visit all the highlights of China on this popular tour including the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors, then savour the natural grandeur of the Three Gorges on a relaxing Yangtze River Cruise.

T H I N G S TO S E E The Mekong passes through a patchwork of landscapes on its journey. Whilst several cities are set on the river banks the scenery as a whole is gorgeously rural – for miles there is nothing but farmland and fishermen. Two of the most beautiful spots on the river are Laos’ Si Phan Don, where the river swirls around a series of tranquil islands, and the agricultural abundance and peaceful waterways of the luscious Mekong Delta in Vietnam.

CRUISING Whether you want a day floating amongst the orchards, paddy fields and water buffalos of the Mekong Delta, or to embark on a voyage between the glorious temples of Angkor and the floating markets of the Mekong Delta $ 20 days from pp twin share region there is no Fully inclusive departing Syd & Mel better place to $ catch a glimpse of 20 days from pp twin share authentic rural life Fully inclusive departing Bne, Adl & Per in Indochina than Venture through Vietnam's cultural centres, along the banks of natural wonders and fast-paced cities before a Pandaw cruise along the Mekong. the Mekong.

Take me there!

Mekong Odyssey

8,580 8,880

In conclusion, if you are after scenery on an epic scale take to the waters of the mighty Yangtze, whilst for lazy days and views of rural Indochina, the Mekong has all you can ask for.

12

Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

Going it alone….

There are all sorts of reasons why you might find yourself embarking on a solo trip. Maybe you want to explore more far flung destinations than your family and friends, or maybe your idea of a holiday doesn’t involve lying on a sun lounger. Perhaps you and your partner take it in turns to take holidays – after all someone has to look after the pets.

Now it’s your turn to take off. It’s time to indulge yourself and embark on that trip YOU have always wanted to take.

Our group tours are an ideal way for you to enjoy your holiday of a lifetime with comfort and security, knowing you are not alone!

You might even be surprised to hear that on some of our tours, up to 65% of travellers join us solo.

When we ask our customers what’s best about travelling solo, here’s some of the things they tell us:

• You’re free to be you. You may be a mother/husband/baby-sitter/executive/ counsellor/doctor at home, but on tour, you are a traveller – an ‘Explorer of the World’. Focus on the present and immerse yourself in your new environment and the journey along the way. And then swap stories with your fellow group-members at the end of each day over dinner.

• You’ll start the tour as an individual but will finish with many lifelong friends.

We know that often the extra expense of travelling solo can be off putting, which is why we have options for you.

• There’s always someone to take your photo in front of the Taj Mahal/Angkor Wat/the Great Wall of China (and yes, we know there are selfie-sticks these days, but who really wants to lug one of those around).

• If you are willing to share on our group tours and book more than 60 days prior to the group tour departure date, you won’t have to pay a single supplement*.

N E W D E D I C AT E D S O LO D E PA R T U R E S A China Experience

• Guarantee yourself a single room by paying a single supplement.

10 days from pp Fully inclusive including single rooms

• Safety in numbers – regardless of how well travelled you are, we all know the feeling of trepidation as you arrive in a new destination, where you don’t speak the language and don’t know your way around. There’s something reassuring about exploring a new place with the confidence that comes with someone at your side whether it’s a guide or fellow travellers.

• Travel on one of our NEW Solo group tour departures and you will pay low or no single supplement on these very special departures dedicated to likeminded solo travellers.

4,190

$

Departs Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per on 18 Nov 16 Explore China on this introductory tour with like-minded solo travellers.

Vietnam Impressions

3,380

$

9 days from pp Departs Syd & Mel on 1 Sep 16

3,780

$

9 days from pp Departs Bne, Adl & Cbr on 1 Sep 16 Fully inclusive including single rooms Visit the highlights of Vietnam including Saigon, Hoi An and Halong Bay.

Golden Triangle

4,170

$

9 days from pp Fully inclusive including single rooms Departs Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per on 11 Sep 16 Tick off a visit to the Taj Mahal on this dedicated solo traveller departure.

Want more information about travelling solo with Wendy Wu Tours, or have a few more questions before you are ready to explore Asia, visit our website for further details: www.wendywutours.com.au/solo-travellers *Covers hotel nights only. Supplements for Yangtze River cruises unfortunately cannot be waived.

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

13

Customer Corner

Entrancing and Mystical Vietnam m © Colin Pass

Local, Coc Ly, Vietna

The locals were so welcoming and friendly; sharing tea and food with them was a great experience.

Locals, Ma Tra, Vietnam

© Colin Pass

Sunrise over Halong Bay © Colin Pass

14

Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

Colin and Mrs Ann Pass

By Wendy Wu travellers Mr da and Alaska UK, Russia, India, Cana e th in s ay lid ho d ha of was a Having t thing I was thinking las e th s, ar ye o tw of during a period d told my wife and . That was until a frien m na et Vi in ay lid ho was full further m with his family and na et Vi to en be ly nt ce I that he had re y people. nation and its friendl of praise for the desti

Mrs Ann Pass

the local food?

What did you think of ia with Ind and ina Ch to d good as we think? elle as e We had trav Vietnamese cuisin Is d me see it refore nt, full of flavour and Wendy Wu Tours and the The local food was excelle holidays at wh te iga est inv the regions. (We to for e te appropriat gave us a genuine tas ays alw I’m tnam. d as we have a they had available in Vie are used to Vietnamese foo faces and ces pla new rant in the village for t tau res kou on the loo very good Vietnamese e littl a t ou g ryin ily who escaped to photograph so after car ere we live owned by a fam wh of r Tou e Delux research we opted for the the Vietnam war). a real gem. There be to t ou ned tur It Vietnam. ving of a special ; the other couple Was there anyone deser were just four in our group in Vietnam? Because and great company. mention that you met being in our age bracket up, we didn’t have we had plenty of we were such a small gro We got on really well and we had two local ed transport. a national guide; instead space in our air condition e reflected her smile guides, Sunny (whose nam out od sto t tha ce en eri i and Halong Bay and Was there an exp and personality) in Hano two sed pri com y lida ho ’t have asked for better from the rest? The Minh in Sapa. We couldn is it t bu a Sap and i no h were friendly and main centres i.e. Ha people to look after us. Bot stood t tha nce erie exp e on t to go that extra mile difficult to point ou attentive and were keen , hts hlig hig l era sev re g was right. out most as there we to ensure that everythin of top the at s wa ise cru also be given to our but the Halong Bay A special mention should the – t righ s wa it ut abo us through chaotic the list. Everything driver who manoeuvred at and bo the on d foo and e efficiency and with scenery, the servic traffic jams with smooth – it is ce ten sen rt sho a In t. e. the people we me whom we always felt saf and is one of those entrancing and mystical velled to Vietnam, if mind forever, truly Now that you have tra places that will stay in the e piece of advice you could pass along on unforgettable. would it be? I guess d an unscheduled to future visitors, what We also extremely enjoye tional - always be use. The locals were my advice is fairly conven invitation into a local’s ho the Vietnamese at wh and ly; sharing tea polite because that’s so welcoming and friend ask if you want to ays alw The . at experience people are. Smile and food with them was a gre eone. inese border also take a photograph of som hill tribes up near the Ch ur mo hu ir homes, and ng you saw on made us welcome in the What is the funniest thi age gu lan any ed nd sce not funny in the and friendliness tran your adventure? Maybe we saw a tiny lady problems. conventional sense, but n mo com e om bec has it ter buffaloes to As for Sapa, I know leading two enormous wa t tha t bu , ing nn stu as ing e. They were towering to describe someth market on a piece of rop jaw s wa It s. wa y ner sce at control over the is exactly what the over her, but she had gre the s, tain un mo The ul. droppingly beautif ‘locals’. Respect to her. the water falls all terraced rice paddies and . morable.

Will you go back? Oh yes combined to make it me

Take me there!

Jewels of Vietnam

5,980

$

11 days from pp twin share Departing Syd, Mel, Bne & Adl

It was jaw-droppingly beautiful.

The mountains, the terraced rice paddies and the waterfalls all combined to make it memorable.

Add a 4 night Sapa extension From $550pp twin share Embark on a deluxe adventure of Vietnam's highlights uncovering history, culture and natural beauty.

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

15

FOCUS ON:

NORTHEAST ASIA

Northeast Asia, encompassing Japan, Taiwan and South Korea, offers a glimpse of Asia old and new.

The cities of the region may be cutting-edge, but amongst the neon-bright lights, the old culture and traditions are still worshipped as vehemently as in centuries gone by.

NORTH KOREA

SEOUL

SOUTH KOREA

JAPAN TOKYO

CHINA Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto, Japan

TAIWAN

TAIPEI

Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima, Japan

Fo Guang Shan Monaste

ry

Taipei skyline

AUSTRALIA Jeju Island, So

uth Korea

l Hall, Taipei, Taiwan

Chiang Kai-Shek Memoria

16

Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

J A PA N

S O U T H KO R E A TA I WA N

Japan is a country that has long fascinated travellers. Here, a futuristic facade hides a rich wealth of old traditions that are a deep source of reverence and pride to the Japanese people.

As the world embraces K-pop and kimchee, more and more people are looking to South Korea as the new Asian destination of choice.

It is a country with distinctive features the traditional and historical as well as the sleek and cosmopolitan.

Despite first appearances, capital city, Tokyo, has deep roots in the past. The most Michelin starred restaurants and the tallest tower it may have, but the old festivals, Zen gardens and temples that sit amongst the high-rises are still as well attended as ever. Explore both sides of the city’s personality at old temples such as Senso-ji and more recent additions like the Tokyo Sky Tree.

The city that highlights old Japan the best is Kyoto. It is home to tranquil temples, teahouses and silk clad geishas – in fact, Kyoto has so many heritage sites, UNESCO just blanket covered 17 of them under the ‘Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto’. Visits to Kinkakuji and Ginkaku-ji, plus tea with a Geisha should definitely be top of the list.

No visit to Japan would be complete without seeing the iconic cone of Mount Fuji. Perfectly proportioned, it has inspired many and can be easily visited in a day from Tokyo or in a more relaxed manner, with a night or two in a traditional ryokan in the spa town of Hakone.

Now the rising star of Asia, it’s capital, Seoul, is a dynamic and cutting edge city, where the ultra-modern collides with the much revered Confucian traditions of the past. With its ornate imperial palaces, old districts, excellent shopping and, just to the north, the formidable border with North Korea, Seoul is a fascinating place to explore – the wonderfully welcoming people make it all the easier.

It’s easy to find cultural pockets of old Korea – Gyeongju, ‘the museum without walls’, is a must visit, but also a huge amount of gorgeous natural beauty. Mount Seoraksan National Park is full of spectacular nature and ancient culture, and thanks to South Korea’s excellent infrastructure, it is really easy to get to.

Jeju Island is also a spectacular place to explore, with the added bonus of having fantastic tropical beaches on which to relax when you’ve seen enough of the rugged peaks and lush forests.

If you are looking for dynamic, ultramodern and exciting all tied into one, then look no further than Taipei. In Taiwan’s capital you’ll see futuristic skyscrapers like Taipei 101 – the world’s tallest and largest eco-friendly building - sitting amongst sprawling night markets and ornate temples. There are also world-class museums such as the National Palace Museum, which houses the largest collection of Chinese art in the world.

Away from the bright lights of the big city, Taiwan’s landscapes are astonishingly diverse.

Explore a whopping eight national parks of mountains, gorges and forests, as well as thermal spring resorts and tropical beaches.

Taroko National Park is also a must-visit, with its high mountain peaks and sea cliffs. For the best of the best within this National Park, make sure you visit Taroko Gorge – the steep waterfalls will take your breath away.

The tranquil Sun Moon Lake lies in the heart of Taiwan. You’ll find emerald green waters, peaceful temples and stunning landscapes.

There’s an array of outdoor activities to choose from here, from boating on the lake to hiking and biking, the list could go on!

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul, South Korea

Geisha, Kyoto, Japan

Take me there!

Essential Japan

9,140

$

12 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive Classic Group Tour Departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Immerse yourself in the unique and fascinating culture of Japan on this introductory tour.

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

Seoul City Short Stay

Taipei City Short Stay

4 days from pp twin share Includes accommodation, some seat-incoach touring, English-speaking driver-guide, entrance fees and some meals.

3 days from pp twin share Includes accommodation, some touring, English-speaking driver-guide, entrance fees and breakfast daily.

Explore the distinctive features of Seoul, from the traditional and historical to the sleek and cosmopolitan.

Stopover in Taipei, the bustling capital of Taiwan, and explore its national parks and unique landscapes.

980

$

255

$

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

17

48 hours in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a unique, bustling and dynamic city with a spectacular skyline and harbour. The city is a fantastic blend of culture, shopping and world class dining and is the perfect stopover destination en route to China. Here Zoe Abbott, Customer Insight Manager at Wendy Wu Tours, describes her favourite sights and experiences.

Day 1 MORNING The Peak A visit up The Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, is a must for any visitor to Hong Kong. I would take the Peak Tram, an exhilarating ride on the funicular railway to the top, and then spend an hour or so admiring the view over the harbour below.

This is a great way to start your time in Hong Kong and definitely gives you a good orientation of the city.

LU N C H Jump on the MTR (Hong Kong’s public transport system) and head over to Sham Shui Po, one of Hong Kong’s best foodie districts. Feel like a local and sample many of the local foods, including delicious cakes, noodles and dim sum.

AFTERNOON Hong Kong Island I would recommend a short cruise around Aberdeen Harbour to see the old junks and fishing boats, followed by a visit to Stanley Market to pick up your quintessential Hong Kong trinkets. A visit to Hong Kong wouldn’t be the same without a trip here.

EVENING Take the Star Ferry across the bay to Kowloon and walk along the Avenue of Stars, pausing to take in the Symphony of Lights – an

astonishing display of neon lights and lasers dancing over the Hong Kong waterfront. For a great local food experience, head to Temple Street Night Market – I ate some of the most delicious food I’ve ever had, whilst sat out on small benches, watching the world go by.

Giant Buddha, Lantau

Day 2 MORNING After a relaxing sleep at the Metropark hotel, head to the MTR and take the metro to Kowloon Park for a morning stroll. I loved walking around Kowloon Park, where you can see the local people taking advantage of one of Hong Kong’s green spaces. It’s a small snippet of serenity in the middle of the Hong Kong skyscraper jungle.

AFTERNOON Lantau Island Spend the rest of the day exploring Hong Kong’s largest island. With beautiful beaches and fishing villages as well as the Giant Buddha, it’s a great contrast to the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong’s city life.

Top Tip Don’t miss out on a ride on the quirky trams; it’s an interesting way to see one of Asia’s most colourful cities. Head to one of the many rooftop bars dotted around the sea of towering skyscrapers and enjoy a cocktail or two as you watch the sunset.

Hong Kong city streets

Wendy Wu Tours sta ff member Zoe at 'the Peak'

Take me there!

For a limited time only, visit Hong Kong FREE when you book a selected China group tour. Choose from over 10 tours and 22 departures between May and Aug 2016.

In Pursuit of Pandas

3,740

$

9 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per flying Cathay Pacific Airways.

A great introduction to China, and enjoy 3 nights, twin share in Hong Kong FREE!

Magnificent China

6,430

$

21 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per flying Cathay Pacific Airways.

A comprehensive tour of all the highlights of China, plus enjoy 3 nights, twin share in Hong Kong FREE!

A China Adventure ( D I S CO V E R Y TO U R )

6,640

$

16 days from pp twin share Departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per flying Cathay Pacific Airways.

Enjoy this active tour of China, plus enjoy 3 nights, twin share in Hong Kong FREE!

18

Call: 1300 798 118 quote Chinese Whispers

# WHAT'S TRENDING

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and keep up to date with all of what’s happening in the world of Wu. If you are looking for a little more inspiration, take a look at our blog with plenty of articles to guide and inspire your next adventure.

Wendywutours.com.au/blog

EVER DREAMT OF SEEING JAPAN IN FULL BLOOM? The Cherry blossom season is the biggest event in Japan’s annual calendar, with Tokyo and Kyoto springing to life with colour from mid March to mid April. The effect of the cherry blossoms is magical, particularly when the wind blows the petals. It’s almost like snow falling. People come from all over the world to experience it. With so many people in town at this time of year, its no wonder you need to plan your trip over a year in advance. $

Take me there!

Discover Japan

Want to read more, visit our Facebook page for full details.

Cherry blossums, Kyoto

9,140

14 days from pp twin share Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl & Per Explore the remarkable culture and customs of Japan during cherry blossom season in 2017.

Wendy Wu Tours Australia

#NEWWITHWU #MALDIVES 2016 is the year of the Maldives, and Wendy Wu Tours can take you there.

The Maldives is home to some of the best beaches in the world, with whiter-than-white sand and turquiose-blue water. Some of the world’s most amazing diving and snorkelling is found in the Maldives and the luxurious resorts mean the Maldives are at the top of many travellers’ wishlists. Do as little or as much as you like in the Maldives in 2016.

Take me there!

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

Be inspired by whats #NewWithWu, check out our Instagram page. wendy_wu_tours

3,525

$

5 nights from pp twin share Includes accommodation in a Lagoon Villa, return airport transfers by speedboat and breakfast daily.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives

IS THIS CHINA’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The Nine Villages Valley in the Sichuan Province is Wendy Wu’s favourite part of China and is filled with scenery that you wouldn’t normally associate with China. This 700 square kilometre National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with jaw-dropping mountains, magnificent lakes, dense forests, cascading waterfalls and stunning valleys.

It is perfect for a first or second time visitor to China, wanting to experience the unique $ 16 days from pp twin share natural wonders China has to offer.

Take me there!

Sichuan Explorer

5,180

Want to read more, visit our Facebook page for full details.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Wendy Wu Tours Australia

Fully inclusive departing Syd, Mel, Bne & Per

Wendy's favourite province, the Sichuan province contrasts markedly from the rest of China, with differing attitudes, cuisine and spectacular landscapes.

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers – March 2016

19

Why book with Wendy Wu Tours 21 years operating tours to Asia Unrivalled knowledge and expertise Comprehensive range of Fully Inclusive Classic Tours, Discovery Tours, Deluxe Tours, River Cruises, private and tailor-made itineraries Fully inclusive Classic Tours with no hidden extras Exciting journeys to unique, rarely visited destinations Expert National Escorts and Local Guides Quality hotels and comfortable transportation

1300 798 118

wendywutours.com.au/chinese-whispers info@wendywutours.com.au or contact your local travel agent

DISCOVERY TOURS CHINA n TIBET n VIETNAM n CAMBODIA n LAOS n INDIA n NEPAL n CENTRAL ASIA n MONGOLIA 2016-2017

IMMERSIVE JOURNEYS INTO THE HEART OF ASIA

DELUXE TOURS CHINA

n

VIETNAM

n

CAMBODIA

n

LAOS

n

INDIA

2016-2017

SMALL GROUP TOURS FEATURING EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES

Looking for more inspiration and information?

Order your free brochure today!

Free Hong Kong stopover: Valid for sale to 22 April 2016, unless sold out prior. Valid on selected China tours departing 7 May to 27 Aug 2016 from Syd, Mel, Bne, Adl, Per. China tipping included in tour price and subject to change. Valid on new bookings only. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Free Hong Kong stopover based on twin share arrangements at the Metropark Hotel. Single supplement applies. Surcharges apply for afterhours transfers. All services are subject to availability.

Visit wendywutours.com.au/hkfree for full details.

Loyalty discount: Our loyalty discount does not apply to tailor-made itineraries, independent travel, special groups, or to our Simply range of tours.

Refer a friend conditions: To be eligible for the ‘refer a friend’ offer you must have a current or previously deposited Wendy Wu Tours booking. One hamper per new booking will be distributed. The referee must quote your full name, booking number and address at the time of their booking. Your hamper will be distributed upon receipt of their deposit. Your friend must be a new customer who has not previously booked with Wendy Wu Tours. We will contact you to arrange delivery of your hamper. Hampers will be delivered at the start of the calendar month. We regret we cannot apply this offer retrospectively.

ATAS: A10517