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REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

REGIONAL<br />

TOURING &<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

ADVENTURES<br />

You’ve worked out Europe is a pretty big place<br />

and you’ve decided not to try to see it all on<br />

one visit. Smart move. Maybe you’re tempted<br />

by the beach lifestyle of Spain, the culture of<br />

Italy, or the fine food and wines of France?<br />

Maybe you fancy a glimpse behind the ‘Iron<br />

Curtain’ in Russia, or hope to sample the ‘east<br />

meets west’ flavours of Turkey? Choose one of<br />

our regional tours for an in-depth discovery of<br />

your favourite corner of this diverse continent.<br />

Our small group adventures are perfect for<br />

those who enjoy the convenience of prearranged<br />

travel with the flexibility to do your<br />

own thing, and you’ll generally travel with no<br />

more than 16 like-minded folks. Choose from<br />

basic, standard and superior options, or an<br />

active holiday to put you in touch with nature.<br />

Opt for a multi-country small group adventure<br />

or a more in-depth exploration of just one or<br />

two countries, or choose a ‘local living’ holiday<br />

where you can really discover the heart and<br />

soul of the places you visit.


EUROPE ENCOMPASSED<br />

London London<br />

FR<br />

$3,999<br />

24 DAYS<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

Highlights<br />

• Enjoy a picnic under the Eiffel Tower<br />

• Love the great outdoors in the Alps<br />

• Uncover ancient monuments in Rome<br />

• See priceless art in Florence<br />

• Enjoy a gelato in St. Mark’s Square<br />

• Explore the Imperial palaces of Vienna<br />

• Chill out in laid-back Amsterdam<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Apr 21 May 14<br />

May 05 May 28<br />

May 19 Jun 11<br />

May 26 Jun 18<br />

Jun 02 Jun 25<br />

Inclusions<br />

ENGLAND<br />

Paris<br />

London<br />

1<br />

1<br />

FRANCE<br />

Bruges<br />

Interlaken<br />

Amsterdam<br />

2<br />

Milan 1<br />

Cinque Terre<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jun 16 Jul 09<br />

Jun 30 Jul 23<br />

Jul 14 Aug 06<br />

Aug 11 Sep 03<br />

Aug 25 Sep 17<br />

NORTH<br />

SEA<br />

2<br />

Berlin<br />

GERMANY<br />

3<br />

Viareggio<br />

Prague<br />

Vienna<br />

2<br />

1<br />

3<br />

Florence<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 08 Oct 01<br />

Sep 22 Oct 15<br />

Oct 06 Oct 29<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for 18-<br />

39s Accommodation: Simple hotels/hostels<br />

(20 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), overnight train<br />

(2 nts) Transport: Public bus, train, metro,<br />

ferry Meals: 1 lunch Budget: Allow EUR 500-<br />

750 for meals not included Group Leader:<br />

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size:<br />

Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEELL<br />

You might like<br />

2<br />

Venice<br />

Rome<br />

2<br />

ITALY<br />

ADRIATIC<br />

SEA<br />

Time too tight? Break up the journey.<br />

See pages 68-69<br />

London to Rome<br />

(8 days) (GAEELR) Fr $1,299<br />

Rome to Prague<br />

(10 days) (GAEIRP) Fr $1,599<br />

Prague to London<br />

(8 days) (GAEYPL) Fr $1,149<br />

London to Prague<br />

(17 days) (GAEELP) Fr $2,849<br />

Rome to London<br />

(17 days) (GAEIRL) Fr $ 2,799<br />

You. Europe. 24 days. Ready? You’d better be, because this epic romp through the Old<br />

World’s greatest cities doesn’t slow down for stragglers. Geared towards budget-conscious<br />

travellers eager to tick an entire continent off their ‘must-do’ list, this adventure will take<br />

you from the busy streets of the English capital to Paris’ most elegant galleries and cafés,<br />

the stunning natural brilliance of Switzerland, the rugged beauty of Italy’s Cinque Terre and<br />

the party capitals of Berlin and Amsterdam before wrapping up with a celebratory pint in a<br />

London pub. Phew! We’re tired just talking about it.<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-05<br />

06-08<br />

09-11<br />

12-15<br />

16-20<br />

21-24<br />

ITINERARY<br />

London / Paris<br />

After meeting in London today, make your way to Paris on the overnight bus service. Upon arrival,<br />

take an orientation walk to introduce you to this wonderful city. Afterwards you are free to explore<br />

on your own to discover its certain ‘je ne sais quoi’. Paris has something for everyone, enjoy a picnic<br />

under the Eiffel Tower, perhaps explore the outstanding museums and churches, or float down the<br />

Seine on a sightseeing cruise. (L)<br />

Paris / Interlaken<br />

Leaving Paris, you’ll have the best part of three days to enjoy this outdoors adventure resort in the<br />

Swiss Alps. Enjoy hiking in the nearby valleys of Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen, where you can also<br />

see the unique Trümmelbach Falls hidden inside a mountain. Opt to get your adrenalin pumping with<br />

hang gliding, zorbing, whitewater rafting, or swimming in crystal-clear lakes. On Day 5, travel by<br />

overnight train to Milan.<br />

Milan / Rome<br />

Strut your stuff with an included orientation walk of Milan, Italy’s capital of fashion. It’s then on<br />

to Rome, where you can spend your time discovering the Colosseum, Spanish Steps and the Trevi<br />

Fountain. A trip to the Vatican City is a must to see the famous St Peter’s Basilica. Don’t miss the<br />

amazing Italian food, wine and nightlife.<br />

Viareggio (Tuscany)<br />

With a base in Viareggio, discover the Tuscan countryside and some of its famed cities on included<br />

day trips. Visit Pisa to see its famous Leaning Tower, and take in the coastal trails along the terraced<br />

hillsides of the Cinque Terre. Visit also the Renaissance city of Florence, which boasts magnificent<br />

buildings such as the Duomo and the outstanding art collection at the Uffizi Gallery.<br />

Venice / Vienna<br />

A scenic train ride takes you to Venice, one of the few places in the world that can truly be described<br />

as unique. This ‘Floating City’ is best explored on foot, wandering through the labyrinth of alleys<br />

and streets, discovering opulence and beauty at every turn. On Day 13, travel by overnight train to<br />

Vienna where there’s plenty of time to explore. Check out the highlights of its imperial past, including<br />

the grand St. Stephen’s Church and the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, and marvel at the Hofburg<br />

Palace or with an optional visit to the Lipizzaner ‘dancing’ horses of the Vienna Riding School.<br />

Prague / Berlin<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> on to Prague where you’ll take a walking tour with your guide and visit a Pilsner beer hall. You<br />

then have free time the next day to explore the Old Town and the castle complex. Arriving into Berlin<br />

on Day 18, get your bearings with an included bike tour. A melting pot of different cultures and<br />

flavours, it’s one of the most interesting cities in Europe.<br />

Amsterdam / Bruges / London<br />

Depart from Berlin by train and spend a couple of days exploring Amsterdam; beautiful, hip, and<br />

famously laid back. Start with a sightseeing walk and an included visit to a local brewery. If you only<br />

do one thing in Amsterdam, get a unique perspective with a cruise along its signature canals, which<br />

are lined with elegant gabled townhouses. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Van Gogh Museum or the<br />

Rijksmuseum. On Day 23, arrive in Belgium to the compact city of Bruges, one of the best-preserved<br />

medieval trading centres in Europe, which has remained practically unchanged since its heyday.<br />

Finally, make your way back for one last night in London, where your tour ends on Day 24.<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

67


LONDON TO ROME<br />

ADVENTURE<br />

ROME TO PRAGUE<br />

FR<br />

$1,299 ADVENTURE<br />

FR<br />

$1,599<br />

London Rome 8 DAYS Rome Prague<br />

10 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Visit the Louvre and see priceless works of art in Paris<br />

• Enjoy some adrenalin-pumping outdoor activities in the Swiss Alps<br />

• Step back in time as you explore the historic streets of Rome<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02<br />

03-05<br />

06<br />

07-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

London / Paris<br />

After meeting the rest of your group in London today, make your way<br />

to Paris on the overnight bus service.<br />

Paris<br />

Upon arrival in Paris, take an orientation walk to introduce you to<br />

this wonderful city and enjoy a picnic lunch (included) under the<br />

Eiffel Tower. Spend the rest of the day discovering the unmistakable<br />

Parisian sense of style. Perhaps enjoy a sightseeing cruise along the<br />

River Seine, browse the romantic lanes of Montmartre, or check out<br />

the outstanding art collection of the Louvre. (L)<br />

Interlaken<br />

Head south into Switzerland to enjoy the Alpine adventure<br />

playground of Interlaken. If you’ve ever wanted to try hang gliding,<br />

whitewater rafting or rock climbing, this is the place. The charms of<br />

the twin valleys of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen are both pictureperfect.<br />

On Day 5, travel by overnight train to Milan.<br />

Milan<br />

The bustling city of Milan is renowned worldwide as a centre for<br />

fashion and style. Keep an eye out for catwalk supermodels browsing<br />

their favourite designer boutiques, as you enjoy some of the city’s<br />

sightseeing highlights today on an orientation walk.<br />

Rome<br />

On arrival into Rome, spend the day checking out famous sights from<br />

the glory days of the Roman Empire, including the Colosseum and<br />

Roman Forum. Don’t miss a trip to the Vatican City to admire the<br />

painted ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. The tour ends on Day 8, and<br />

you’re free to depart at any time.<br />

Highlights<br />

• Hike in the verdant hills above Tuscany’s famous Cinque Terre<br />

• Wander the art-filled streets in the Renaissance city of Florence<br />

• Watch a gorgeous sunset as you sip an ice-cold Pilsner in Prague<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-10<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Rome<br />

Arrive into Rome today and head out to explore some of the Italian<br />

capital’s famous sights such as the Colosseum, Spanish Steps and the<br />

Trevi Fountain. Meet the rest of your group this afternoon/evening.<br />

Viareggio (Tuscany)<br />

Using the popular seaside resort of Viareggio as your base, discover<br />

the highlights of Tuscany and the famous rolling countryside of<br />

Cinque Terre. Day trips are included to see sights as varied as the<br />

Leaning Tower of Pisa and the elegant and cultured city of Florence.<br />

Venice<br />

A scenic train ride takes you to Venice, one of the few cities that<br />

is genuinely like nowhere else on the planet. This ‘Floating City’ is<br />

best explored on foot, wandering through the labyrinth of alleys and<br />

streets, or take a gondola ride to appreciate its ancient bridges and<br />

opulent mansions. On Day 6, travel by overnight train to Vienna.<br />

Vienna<br />

On arrival into Vienna, you have plenty of free time to explore.<br />

This former home of the Austro-Hungarian Empire boasts many<br />

reminders of its imperial past, including the magnificent Schönbrunn<br />

Palace. Marvel at the priceless jewels housed in the Schatzkammer<br />

(Treasury), or pay an optional visit to the Vienna Riding School.<br />

Prague<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> on to Prague where you’ll take a walking tour with your guide<br />

and visit an authentic beer hall. You then have free time on Day 10<br />

to explore the Old Town Square, and admire its astronomical clock<br />

before waving goodbye to your travel companions as the tour ends.<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for 18-<br />

39s Accommodation: Simple hotels/hostels (5<br />

nts), bus (1 nt), train (1 nt) Transport: Train,<br />

bus, metro, ferry Meals: 1 lunch Budget: Allow<br />

EUR 280-380 for meals not included Group<br />

Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group<br />

Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEELR<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Apr 21 Apr 28<br />

May 05 May 12<br />

May 19 May 26<br />

May 26 Jun 02<br />

Jun 02 Jun 09<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 16 Jun 23<br />

Jun 30 Jul 07<br />

Jul 14 Jul 21<br />

Aug 11 Aug 18<br />

Aug 25 Sep 01<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 08 Sep 15<br />

Sep 22 Sep 29<br />

Oct 06 Oct 13<br />

London<br />

Paris<br />

1<br />

FRANCE<br />

NORTH<br />

SEA<br />

Interlaken<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Milan<br />

GERMANY<br />

2<br />

ITALY<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Rome<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for 18-<br />

39s Accommodation: Simple hotels/hostels (8<br />

nts), train (1 nt) Transport: Train, public bus,<br />

metro Meals: No meals included Budget: Allow<br />

EUR 220-320 for meals not included Group<br />

Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group<br />

Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEIRP<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Apr 28 May 07<br />

May 12 May 21<br />

May 26 Jun 04<br />

Jun 02 Jun 11<br />

Jun 09 Jun 18<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 23 Jul 02<br />

Jul 07 Jul 16<br />

Jul 21 Jul 30<br />

Aug 18 Aug 27<br />

Sep 01 Sep 10<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 15 Sep 24<br />

Sep 29 Oct 08<br />

Oct 13 Oct 22<br />

GERMANY<br />

ITALY<br />

Cinque<br />

Terre<br />

Tuscany<br />

Venice<br />

3<br />

Rome<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Prague<br />

1<br />

Vienna<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

1<br />

1<br />

AEGEAN<br />

SEA<br />

CZECH<br />

REP<br />

2<br />

68<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


PRAGUE TO LONDON<br />

ADVENTURE<br />

ROME TO LONDON<br />

FR<br />

$1,149 ADVENTURE<br />

FR<br />

$2,799<br />

Prague London 8 DAYS Rome London<br />

17 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Relax with friends over a stein of beer in a Berlin beer garden<br />

• Feel like a local as you cycle the canals of Amsterdam<br />

• Wander through the old town of Bruges and shop for chocolates<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Prague<br />

Depending on your arrival time into Prague, you may have some free<br />

time to explore the city. Meet the rest of your group this evening.<br />

Berlin<br />

Arriving into Berlin, get to grips with the city’s layout on an included<br />

bike tour, and then enjoy almost two full days at your own pace. Few<br />

cities in Europe have such an interesting past, present or future. Take<br />

in sights such as Berlin Wall, the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate.<br />

Amsterdam<br />

Welcome to the Netherlands! Here you have a couple of days to<br />

explore the beautiful city of Amsterdam, whose inhabitants are<br />

famously chilled and laid-back. Start with a sightseeing walk and an<br />

included visit to a local brewery, and then enjoy free time for your<br />

own discovery. Jump on a sightseeing cruise along the city’s elegant<br />

canals, visit the unique Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum,<br />

and check out the slightly less serious side of this fun-loving city<br />

with a stroll around the infamous Red Light District.<br />

Bruges / London<br />

Cross the border into Belgium for a visit to the lovely city of Bruges,<br />

where the stunning medieval buildings that line its Grote Markt<br />

(market square) once housed some of the richest merchants and<br />

craftsmen of Europe. After an orientation walk, there’s free time for<br />

activities such as bike rides, canal cruises, visits to local breweries<br />

or shopping for divine Belgian chocolate. Finally, cross the English<br />

Channel and make your way back to London for one last night with<br />

the group. Your tour ends on Day 8.<br />

Highlights<br />

• Explore the beautiful streets and ancient monuments in Rome<br />

• Embrace a variety of cultures and sample some great food and drink<br />

• Cycle the chilled-out streets of Amsterdam and party in Berlin<br />

DAY<br />

01-06<br />

07-10<br />

11-15<br />

16-17<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Rome / Viareggio (Tuscany) / Cinque Terre / Venice<br />

It all begins in Rome, home to more ancient landmarks than you could<br />

shake a centurion’s spear at. On Day 2, take a train to Tuscany and<br />

explore this hospitable Italian region, including the famous Leaning<br />

Tower of Pisa, the terraced hillsides of Cinque Terre and an evening<br />

stroll to Piazzale Michelangelo for a spectacular view over Florence.<br />

On Day 5, take a scenic train ride to the ‘Floating City’ of Venice and<br />

enjoy an orientation walk along the canals and the labyrinth of alleys.<br />

Spend Day 6 exploring the picturesque streets and palaces before<br />

jumping on the overnight train.<br />

Vienna / Prague<br />

Wake up in the Austrian capital of Vienna and spend time exploring<br />

its imperial streets and museums, and sampling its tasty pilsner. On<br />

Day 9, head to Prague and walk around town with your guide. Pay a<br />

visit to a genuine beer hall before continuing to explore the city and<br />

its Old Town Square with the famous Astronomical Clock.<br />

Berlin / Amsterdam<br />

Welcome to Berlin and an included bicycle tour. Enjoy free time<br />

exploring this historic city, the famous Berlin Wall, the East Side<br />

Gallery or its many trendy bars and cafés. <strong>Travel</strong> to Amsterdam on<br />

Day 14, one of the coolest cities in Europe. After a sightseeing<br />

walk and a visit to a local brewery, stroll the beautiful canals, visit<br />

Anne Frank’s house or the Van Gogh Museum, or check out the city’s<br />

infamous Red Light District.<br />

Bruges / London<br />

Head into Belgium for a visit to one of Europe’s best-preserved<br />

medieval towns; Bruges. Opt for a brewery tour, canal boat trip or<br />

cycle around the historic centre before heading to London for a final<br />

night out with the group. Your tour comes on an end on Day 17.<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for 18-<br />

39s Accommodation: Simple hotels/hostels (7<br />

nts) Transport: Train, bus, metro, ferry Meals:<br />

None Budget: Allow EUR 210-300 for meals<br />

not included Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour<br />

Code: GAEYPL<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

London Amsterdam<br />

1<br />

Bruges<br />

FRANCE<br />

NORTH<br />

SEA<br />

2<br />

Berlin<br />

GERMANY<br />

ITALY<br />

3<br />

1<br />

Prague<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for 18-<br />

39s Accommodation: Simple hotels/hostels<br />

(15 nts), train (1 nt) Transport: Train, bus,<br />

metro, ferry Meals: None Budget: Allow EUR<br />

350-500 for meals not included Group Leader:<br />

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max<br />

16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEIRL<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Scotland<br />

London<br />

1<br />

SPAIN<br />

NORTH SEA<br />

Denmark<br />

Norway<br />

Amsterdam<br />

2<br />

Bruges<br />

FRANCE<br />

Viareggio<br />

Sweden<br />

GERMANY<br />

Prague<br />

1<br />

ITALY<br />

3<br />

Vienna<br />

Rome<br />

Berlin<br />

1<br />

3<br />

2<br />

2<br />

Venice<br />

ADRIATIC<br />

SEA<br />

POLAND<br />

May 07 May 14<br />

May 21 May 28<br />

Jun 04 Jun 11<br />

Jun 11 Jun 18<br />

Jun 18 Jun 25<br />

Jul 02 Jul 09<br />

Jul 16 Jul 23<br />

Jul 30 Aug 06<br />

Aug 27 Sep 03<br />

Sep 10 Sep 17<br />

Sep 24 Oct 01<br />

Oct 08 Oct 15<br />

Oct 22 Oct 29<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Apr 28 May 14<br />

May 12 May 28<br />

May 26 Jun 11<br />

Jun 02 Jun 18<br />

Jun 09 Jun 25<br />

Jun 23 Jul 09<br />

Jul 07 Jul 23<br />

Jul 21 Aug 06<br />

Aug 18 Sep 03<br />

Sep 01 Sep 17<br />

Sep 15 Oct 01<br />

Sep 29 Oct 15<br />

Oct 13 Oct 29<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

IONIAN SEA<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

69


MARRAKECH<br />

EXPRESS<br />

IBERIAN<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR FR<br />

$1,999 ADVENTURE $1,059 / FR $1,029<br />

London Marrakech 15 DAYS Madrid Madrid<br />

7 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Meet the ghost of Moorish Spain at Granada’s graceful Alhambra<br />

• Sample patatas bravas, chorizo and paella on a tapas bar crawl<br />

• Explore the sensory overload of Morocco’s medinas and kasbahs<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-10<br />

11-13<br />

14-15<br />

ITINERARY<br />

London / Paris<br />

Meet in London late afternoon and catch the Eurostar train to Paris.<br />

Paris<br />

Two days in the romantic city of Paris, with a picnic lunch included at<br />

the foot of the Eiffel Tower and plenty of free time to explore. Board<br />

the overnight train to Barcelona on Day 3. (L)<br />

Barcelona<br />

Start with an orientation walk to introduce the Gothic Quarter and<br />

Las Ramblas; explore the port of Barceloneta or spend a lazy day on<br />

the beach. On Day 6, catch the overnight train to Granada.<br />

Granada / Seville<br />

Get a taste of Moorish influences on a walking tour of Granada and<br />

a guided visit to the Alhambra. In Seville, explore the former home of<br />

Muslim and Christian royalty, the Alcazar, or take in a flamenco show.<br />

Chefchaouen<br />

Cross by ferry into Morocco and enjoy an orientation walk through<br />

this mysterious blue village perched high in the Rif Mountains. Opt to<br />

hike through the mountains and be mesmerised by nearby waterfalls.<br />

Fes / Casablanca<br />

Today explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fes El-Bali, the<br />

world’s largest medina, and its bargain-filled souks. On Day 3,<br />

discover the art-deco and modernist gems of beachfront Casablanca.<br />

Marrakech<br />

Witness the acrobats, fortune tellers and snake charmers of the<br />

Djemaa el-Fna square, with its rows of irresistible open-air food<br />

stalls. You’re free to leave at any time on Day 15.<br />

Highlights<br />

• Enjoy sangria and flavoursome tapas in local tavernas and bars<br />

• Hit the Lagos party circuit on Portugal’s sunny Algarve coast<br />

• Lose yourself in the cobbled streets of Toledo, Spain’s former capital<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03<br />

04-06<br />

07<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Madrid / Lisbon<br />

Depart Madrid and head to the Portuguese coast and Portugal’s star<br />

attraction and capital, Lisbon. Take an orientation walk through the<br />

narrow lanes of Lisbon’s lovely backstreets before heading into the<br />

Bairro Alto area for the local nightlife. On Day 2, explore the Alfama<br />

District, Rossio Square, the Torre de Belem or the Mosteiro dos<br />

Jeronimos or opt for a day trip to the fairytale town of Sintra. (B)<br />

Lagos<br />

This morning head off to the sun lovers’ party town of Lagos in the<br />

south of Portugal. It’s famous for its beaches, bars, restaurants and<br />

vibrant summer nightlife. Opt to explore the secluded coastline of the<br />

Algarve by kayak, grab some surf lessons or just lie on the beach and<br />

nurse your hangover. Spend the night partying at Lagos’ best bars. (B)<br />

Seville / Granada<br />

Head back to Spain and the beautiful city of Seville. Take a walking<br />

tour with a local guide, and explore the capital of Andalucia. Tapas<br />

and party time! Day 5 will take you to Granada, known as the home<br />

of tapas. Grab your mates and sample some of the local specialities.<br />

On Day 6, you’ll have the option to join a fully-guided tour of the<br />

stunning Alhambra Palace or relax and head to the Turkish hot pools<br />

for a massage. Enjoy a traditional flamenco show tonight. (2B)<br />

Granada / Consuegra / Toledo / Madrid<br />

Leaving Granada, make a stop in Consuegra before heading to the<br />

UNESCO-listed city of Toledo. The former capital of Spain commands<br />

a strategic hilltop location and boasts a chequered and turbulent<br />

history. Check out Toledo’s famous cathedral featuring significant<br />

art works by El Greco, Rubens and Titian. Return to Madrid by early<br />

evening where your tour will come to an end. (B)<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for<br />

18-39s Accommodation: Simple hotels (12<br />

nts), sleeper train (2 nts) Transport: Local bus,<br />

air-conditioned coach, train, ferry Meals: 1<br />

lunch Budget: Allow EUR 320-400 for meals<br />

not included Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO), local guide Group Size: Max 16,<br />

Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEEME<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Mar 08 Mar 22<br />

Apr 05 Apr 19<br />

May 03 May 17<br />

May 24 Jun 07<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 14 Jun 28<br />

Jun 28 Jul 12<br />

Jul 26 Aug 09<br />

Aug 23 Sep 06<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 27 Oct 11<br />

Oct 25 Nov 08<br />

Nov 15 Nov 29<br />

Dec 20 Jan 03<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

Casablanca<br />

MOROCCO<br />

London<br />

SPAIN<br />

Paris<br />

FRANCE<br />

Barcelona<br />

NORTH<br />

SEA<br />

Seville<br />

1 1<br />

Granada<br />

2<br />

Chefchaouen<br />

1<br />

2<br />

Fes<br />

1<br />

Marrakech<br />

2<br />

2<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: Multi-share hostels (6 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern air-conditioned coach<br />

Meals: 5 breakfasts Group Leader: Guide &<br />

Driver Group Size: Avg 35 Notes: Includes<br />

orientation walks in each town, locally-guided<br />

tour of Seville, free Lonely Planet guide Tour<br />

Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 31 Jun 06<br />

Jun 07 Jun 13<br />

Jun 14 Jun 20<br />

Jun 21 Jun 27<br />

Jun 28 Jul 04<br />

Jul 05 Jul 11<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 12 Jul 18<br />

Jul 19 Jul 25<br />

Jul 26 Aug 01<br />

Aug 02 Aug 08<br />

Aug 09 Aug 15<br />

Aug 16 Aug 22<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 23 Aug 29<br />

Aug 30 Sep 05<br />

Sep 06 Sep 12<br />

Sep 13 Sep 19<br />

SPAIN<br />

PORTUGAL Madrid<br />

Lisbon<br />

Toledo<br />

2<br />

Consuegra<br />

1<br />

Lagos Seville<br />

2<br />

1<br />

Granada<br />

70<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


BEST OF<br />

NORTHERN SPAIN<br />

BEST OF SPAIN &<br />

FR<br />

$1,299 PORTUGAL<br />

FR<br />

$2,499<br />

Barcelona Madrid 8 DAYS Lisbon Barcelona<br />

15 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Enjoy the food, art and culture of the Catalan and Basque provinces<br />

• Visit the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao’s modernist masterpiece<br />

• Sample fine Rioja wines in Logrono, a city surrounded by vineyards<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04<br />

05<br />

06<br />

07-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Barcelona<br />

The well-defined provinces of Spain are fiercely proud of their own<br />

individual culture and heritage, as you’ll notice when you arrive today<br />

in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia. If time permits, head out to<br />

explore the city before meeting your group this evening.<br />

Barcelona / Pyrenees Mountains<br />

Start the day with an orientation walk of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter<br />

before heading into the Pyrenees Mountains for a two-night stay in a<br />

‘casa rural’, or converted farmhouse, where you’ll enjoy home-cooked<br />

meals and some optional hikes in this beautiful region. (B, 2D)<br />

San Sebastian<br />

Catch the bus to the stylish seaside resort of San Sebastian, your<br />

first stop in the Basque Country, where you can opt to take a tapas<br />

tour to learn about the region’s distinctive food and language. (B)<br />

Bilbao / San Sebastian<br />

Day trip to the bustling city of Bilbao to explore the Casco Viejo (Old<br />

Quarter) and visit the art installations on display at the Guggenheim,<br />

Frank Gehry’s iconic, modernist building covered in titanium panels.<br />

Logrono<br />

Head inland to the lovely and crazily underrated city of Logrono, at<br />

the heart of the Rioja wine-producing region. It would be a crime not<br />

to sample the region’s local vintages, so we’ve included a wine tasting<br />

session. Head to ‘pintxo street’ this evening to sample great tapas.<br />

Madrid<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> to Madrid for an orientation walk and a free afternoon and<br />

evening in Spain’s capital city (and the only place on this trip where<br />

Spanish is the first language!). Depart at any time on Day 8.<br />

Highlights<br />

• See stunning mosaics in Lisbon and the ‘Chapel of Bones’ in Evora<br />

• Feel the rhythm of flamenco in Seville and bar hop around Madrid<br />

• Relax on the beach in Valencia and enjoy tapas in Barcelona<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-12<br />

13-15<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Lisbon<br />

Arrive in Lisbon at any time and meet the group in the evening. Dive<br />

straight in on Day 2, and enjoy an orientation tour with your guide<br />

before you set off to explore its narrow medieval streets.<br />

Lisbon / Evora / Algarve Coast<br />

Jump on a local bus to Evora this morning and enjoy a tour including<br />

the ghoulish ‘Chapel of Bones’. Use your free time to explore this<br />

lively city of bustling alleyways and quaint architecture. Afterwards,<br />

make your way to Lagos for a two-night stay on the Algarve Coast.<br />

Algarve Coast / Seville<br />

Head east to Seville, one of the most colourful and exciting cities in<br />

Spain. After an orientation walk, you have two days to get a feel for<br />

the city; explore monuments and gardens, savour tapas and wine and<br />

see a dramatic evening flamenco performance.<br />

Cordoba / Granada<br />

You’re off to explore Cordoba and its incredible Moorish mosque,<br />

the Mezquita-Catedral. On Day 8, next up it’s the Andalucian city of<br />

Granada, where there will be an included visit to the Alhambra Palace.<br />

Granada / Madrid / Valencia<br />

Madrid has it all - history, architecture, galleries, beautiful parks and<br />

wild nightlife. On Day 11, travel to the vibrant city of Valencia. Use<br />

Day 12 to explore all this outstanding place has on offer.<br />

Valencia / Barcelona<br />

Take a morning train to Barcelona and familiarise yourself with the<br />

sights of the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas on a walking tour. Next<br />

day, make the most of your time here in this cosmpolitan city as it all<br />

wraps up in the morning of Day 15.<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Converted farmhouses (2 nts)<br />

hotels (5 nts) Transport: Public bus Meals: 2<br />

breakfasts, 2 dinners Budget: Allow EUR 240-<br />

300 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief<br />

Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group<br />

Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAESNS<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

SPAIN<br />

FRANCE<br />

San Sebastian<br />

Bilbao 2<br />

Pyrenees<br />

Logrono 1<br />

2<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $699 Barcelona My Own Room Available: Fr $1,099<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

Madrid 1<br />

SEA<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 01 Jun 08<br />

Jun 28 Jul 05<br />

Jul 12 Jul 19<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 27 Aug 03<br />

Aug 24 Aug 31<br />

Sep 14 Sep 21<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 28 Oct 05<br />

1<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (14 nts) Transport:<br />

Public bus, train Meals: No meals included<br />

Budget: Allow EUR 315-415 for meals not<br />

included Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO), local guide Group Size: Max 16,<br />

Avg 12 Tour Code: GAESSP<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 18 Jun 01<br />

Jun 14 Jun 28<br />

Jun 28 Jul 12<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 13 Jul 27<br />

Aug 10 Aug 24<br />

Aug 31 Sep 14<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 14 Sep 28<br />

Oct 12 Oct 26<br />

POR TUGAL<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

SPAIN<br />

Madrid<br />

Lisbon<br />

2<br />

2 Barcelona<br />

Evora<br />

Cordoba<br />

1<br />

2<br />

2<br />

2 Valencia<br />

Seville 1<br />

Algarve<br />

Granada MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Coast<br />

2<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

71


SPANISH SPREE<br />

Madrid Madrid<br />

FR<br />

$1,999<br />

14 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Explore Madrid’s vast Royal Palace<br />

• Hit the beaches in San Sebastian<br />

• Discover Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter<br />

• Party ‘til dawn in Ibiza (summer only)<br />

• Admire the beauty of Seville<br />

• Wander Granada’s cobbled streets<br />

• Tour the Moorish Alhambra Palace<br />

• Visit Cordoba’s Mosque of Caliphs<br />

Departures 2014/15<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jan 06 Jan 19 Jul 09 Jul 22 Oct 20 Nov 02<br />

Apr 28 May 11 Jul 21 Aug 03 Nov 24 Dec 07<br />

May 26 Jun 08 Aug 04 Aug 17 Dec 28 Jan 10<br />

Jun 09 Jun 22 Aug 18 Aug 31<br />

Jun 23 Jul 06 Sep 01 Sep 14 2015<br />

Jul 07 Jul 20 Sep 22 Oct 05 Mar 23 Apr 05<br />

Additional departure dates are available, please ask for details<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Superior Age Group: Only for<br />

18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (13 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern, air-conditioned coach,<br />

ferry crossing, flight to Ibiza (summer only)<br />

Meals: 13 breakfasts, 4 dinners Group<br />

Leader: Tour Manager and Driver team<br />

Group Size: Max 51 Notes: Hotel tips, local<br />

taxes and service charges are included Tour<br />

Code: COBBEH/COWWEH - note that winter<br />

departures (Jan-Mar 2014 & Oct 2014-Mar<br />

2015) follow a modified itinerary and do not<br />

visit Ibiza, please ask for details<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

SPAIN<br />

FRANCE<br />

San Sebastian Pyrenees<br />

Bilbao 1<br />

Mountains<br />

1 Pamplona<br />

Segovia<br />

Madrid<br />

Toledo<br />

Cordoba<br />

Seville<br />

1<br />

3<br />

1<br />

Gibraltar<br />

2<br />

Zaragoza<br />

2 Ibiza<br />

Denia<br />

Granada<br />

2<br />

Barcelona<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Spain is a mix of cultures where each region has its own distinct style. Not only is it rich in<br />

cultural traditions, it’s innovative and has a cutting edge arts scene and youthful party vibe.<br />

The Spanish Spree is just that, a spree taking in the perfect blend of culture and partying.<br />

You’ll get to wander through the Royal Palace in Madrid, visit the magnificent Moorish-style<br />

Alhambra Palace in Granada and see the Rock of Gibraltar. Then, put on your dancing shoes<br />

and take in the magic of Barcelona where the nightlife is pumping every day of the week,<br />

and head to the beaches of Ibiza where you can dance ‘til dawn.<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03<br />

04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-10<br />

11<br />

12<br />

13-14<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Madrid<br />

Arrive in Madrid and check yourself into the hotel. Later, meet your new travel buddies over dinner.<br />

Get straight into it on Day 2 as you explore the heart of Madrid. Wander along Gran Via, the Plaza<br />

Mayor and Puerta del Sol. Then, step into the largest palace in Europe as your local guide expertly<br />

shows you through the lavish rooms of the magnificent Royal Palace. Perhaps treat yourself to a<br />

traditional tapas dinner, then head off into the city that never sleeps. (B, D)<br />

Madrid / Segovia / Bilbao<br />

Head north to Bilbao in the Basque Country, with its unique language and culture. Stop by the pretty<br />

clifftop town of Segovia, with its grand mansions and many squares. See the jaw-droppingly beautiful<br />

Roman aqueduct before arriving in Bilbao, home of the Guggenheim Art Museum. (B, D)<br />

Bilbao / San Sebastian / Pamplona<br />

Start the day with free time in the elegant and stylish seaside resort of San Sebastian, a surf hot<br />

spot. Later, pull into Pamplona, home to the extreme festival of the ‘Running of the Bulls’. Enjoy a<br />

walking tour of the well-preserved old town and see the route of the infamous run. (B)<br />

Pamplona / Zaragoza / Barcelona<br />

Stop in Baroque-style Zaragoza before making your way to the buzzing city of Barcelona. First up on<br />

Day 6 is hilltop Montjuic, from where you can take in full-blown vistas of the city. You can also check<br />

out the 1992 Olympic Games complex. Next, get a look into the wild imagination of the architect<br />

Antoni Gaudi, and visit his fabulous, though as yet unfinished, Sagrada Familia Cathedral. (2B, D)<br />

Barcelona / Ibiza<br />

Jump on a plane to Ibiza, Spain’s party paradise. Popular with sun worshippers, backpackers and<br />

those that want to party! Honour the birthplace of the rave by checking out Ibiza’s world famous<br />

clubs, which keep going until the sun comes up. On Day 8, relax, catch up on sleep, soak in the sun<br />

and people-watch until the bars open and the dance floor is calling once again. (2B)<br />

Ibiza / Granada<br />

Ferry back to the mainland and take in the views on the drive south to beautiful Granada. Start Day<br />

10 with a locally-guided optional tour through the old Muslim Quarter of Albaicin. Next up is the<br />

Alhambra where a specialist guide will bring the magic of this former home of the sultans to life. Take<br />

a walk through the complex of fortifications, luxurious palaces and gardens. (2B, D)<br />

Granada / Gibraltar / Seville<br />

Wind along the Costa del Sol with the Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop, and enjoy a stop at<br />

the Rock of Gibraltar. This quirky British territory guards the entrance to the Mediterranean. (B)<br />

Seville / Cordoba<br />

Spend the morning exploring this fun, laid back city where the locals focus on the good life; long<br />

lunches, afternoon siestas, late dinners and dancing. It’s then into the heart of Andalucia, through to<br />

Cordoba to see the Mezquita and learn about the Spanish Inquisition. (B)<br />

Cordoba / Toledo / Madrid<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> to the hill-top town of Toledo, whose narrow streets are packed with monuments reflecting<br />

the Romans, Jews, Muslims and Christians that have all called this place home. Head back to the<br />

Spanish capital, and make your last night one to remember. The tour comes to an end on Day 14<br />

after breakfast, so it’s time to bid adios to your new amigos. (2B)<br />

72<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


IBERIAN VOYAGER<br />

Barcelona Barcelona<br />

FR<br />

$2,725<br />

Includes Local Payment - 21 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Admire Gaudi’s creations in Barcelona<br />

• Stroll the courtyards of the Alhambra<br />

• Sail across the Strait of Gibraltar<br />

• Explore the ancient medina of Fes<br />

• Sample flavoursome tapas and tagine<br />

• Grab your maracas for some flamenco!<br />

• Discover Lisbon aboard its old trams<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Apr 29 May 19<br />

May 06 May 26<br />

May 20 Jun 09<br />

May 27 Jun 16<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jun 10 Jun 30<br />

Jun 17 Jul 07<br />

Jul 01 Jul 21<br />

Jul 08 Jul 28<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jul 22 Aug 11<br />

Aug 12 Sep 01<br />

*Aug 25 Sep 14<br />

Sep 02 Sep 22<br />

Tour marked (*) will be in Valencia for the La Tomatina Festival and<br />

includes a day trip to Bunol to join in the fun.<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Only for 18-<br />

39s Accommodation: Hostels (16 nts), hotels<br />

(4 nts) Transport: Air-con coach, ferry Meals:<br />

20 breakfasts, 12 dinners Group Leader:<br />

Trip Leader & Driver, local guides Group Size:<br />

Max 48, Avg 35 Note: Price includes food<br />

supplement of $455 Tour Code: TDEESPBB<br />

How are your language skills? You’ll hear Spanish, Portuguese, Basque, Catalan, French and<br />

Arabic spoken on this wonderful three-country journey that straddles Europe and North<br />

Africa. From stylish Barcelona, you’ll travel south through the Moorish-influenced cities<br />

of Andalucia then sail across the Strait of Gibraltar to discover the sights and sounds of<br />

Morocco, including the ancient city of Fes. Get lost in winding souks and bargain for unique<br />

goods and meet some friendly locals along the way. Next up are the gorgeous capitals of<br />

Lisbon and Madrid, before a final chill out on the beaches of San Sebastian.<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Porto<br />

2<br />

PORTUGAL<br />

Sintra<br />

2<br />

Lisbon<br />

Seville<br />

Tangier<br />

Volubilis<br />

Meknes<br />

SPAIN<br />

Salamanca<br />

2<br />

1<br />

MOROCCO<br />

You might like<br />

San Sebastian<br />

Madrid<br />

3<br />

2<br />

2<br />

2<br />

Zaragoza<br />

Segovia 2<br />

Barcelona<br />

Granada<br />

Fes<br />

Stay Longer in Barcelona<br />

See pages 144/145<br />

2<br />

FRANCE<br />

Valencia<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04-05<br />

06<br />

07-09<br />

10-11<br />

12-13<br />

14-15<br />

16-17<br />

18-19<br />

20-21<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Barcelona<br />

Meet your Trip Leader and the rest of your group this afternoon for a tour of Barcelona’s highlights<br />

including the Sagrada Familia, Montjuic and Las Ramblas. Enjoy a welcome dinner this evening. (D)<br />

Barcelona / Valencia<br />

Explore more of Barcelona before heading south to the vibrant city of Valencia, home of Spain’s best<br />

paella. Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Quarter to see the Silk Exchange and central market. The<br />

afternoon of Day 3 is at leisure, we’re thinking it could be time to head to the beach? (2B, D)<br />

Valencia / Granada<br />

Head into Andalucia to Granada, the last Moorish city in Spain to fall to the Christians. Enjoy a<br />

guided tour of the magnificent Alhambra, a former fortress, palace and gardens all in one. (2B, D)<br />

Granada / Tangier<br />

Head to the southernmost tip of Spain, and travel by ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco.<br />

In distance terms, it’s not that far, but you’re hit with a wonderful sensory overload – welcome to<br />

Africa! Spend the afternoon in Tangier, an ancient port guarding the entrance to the Med. (B, D)<br />

Tangier / Fes<br />

Fes is the oldest and largest medieval city in the Islamic world. Enjoy a sightseeing tour plus time to<br />

explore its narrow alleyways and covered bazaars. You’re sure to get lost, but that’s half the fun! On<br />

Day 9, take a day trip to Meknes and the Roman ruins at Volubilis, which date back to 40AD. (3B, 2D)<br />

Fes / Seville<br />

Bid farewell to the sights and sounds of North Africa and return to Spain for a tour of Seville, with<br />

time to take in the Alcazar royal residence, the Jewish Quarter and a fiery flamenco show. (2B, D)<br />

Seville / Lisbon<br />

Head into Portugal today and, on arrival into its authentic and colourful capital, see the sights<br />

including Jeronimos Monastery and the Belem Tower. Don’t forget to check out the Bairro Alto, one of<br />

the oldest districts in Lisbon and the heart of the city’s nightlife. (2B, D)<br />

Lisbon / Sintra / Porto<br />

En route to Porto, admire the romantic architecture of Sintra and visit Vila Nova de Gaia for a tasting<br />

tour at a typical port cellar. Porto itself is a lively city where you can stroll the atmospheric riverfront<br />

district of Ribiera, whose buildings are adorned with characterful hand-painted tiles. (2B, D)<br />

Porto / Salamanca / Madrid<br />

On the way to Madrid, make a detour to visit the university city of Salamanca, one of the finest<br />

Renaissance cities in Europe. Enjoy a city tour of Madrid to see the magnificent Royal Palace, with<br />

plenty of free time to admire world-class art in the Prado Museum or explore the nightlife. (2B, D)<br />

Madrid / San Sebastian<br />

Head via Segovia into the Basque Country for a two-night stay in the glorious seaside resort of San<br />

Sebastian. Stroll along the promenade to discover the Old Town’s many ‘pintxos’ (tapas) bars. (2B, D)<br />

San Sebastian / Zaragoza / Barcelona<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> from the Basque Country into Catalonia, both fiercely proud regions of Spain where many of<br />

the locals don’t speak Spanish as their native tongue. Enjoy a last night out with the group, before<br />

the tour comes to an end after breakfast on Day 21. (2B, D)<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

73


ULTIMATE SPAIN & PORTUGAL<br />

Lisbon Madrid<br />

FR<br />

$3,699<br />

22 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Explore the great Iberian cities<br />

• Chill out on the coast of the Algarve<br />

• Marvel at the Mezquita-Catedral<br />

• Sample the best tapas in the world<br />

• Experience the Basque way of life<br />

• Watch some fiery flamenco in Seville<br />

• Live like a local staying in a casa rural<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

May 18 Jun 08<br />

Jun 14 Jul 05<br />

Jun 28 Jul 19<br />

Inclusions<br />

Lisbon<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Algarve<br />

Coast<br />

Evora<br />

Bilbao<br />

Logrono<br />

Madrid<br />

Cordoba<br />

1<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jul 13 Aug 03<br />

Aug 10 Aug 31<br />

2<br />

Seville<br />

Granada<br />

2<br />

1<br />

San<br />

Sebastián<br />

2<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 31 Sep 21<br />

Sep 14 Oct 05<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (19 nts), ‘casa rural’<br />

converted farmhouse (2 nts) Transport: Public<br />

bus, train Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners<br />

Budget: Allow EUR 550-650 for meals not<br />

included Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max<br />

16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAESLM<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $1,749<br />

You might like<br />

1<br />

Pyrenees<br />

1<br />

2<br />

Barcelona<br />

Valencia<br />

Best of Spain & Portugal<br />

(15 days, Lisbon-Madrid)<br />

(GAESSP) see page 71 Fr $2,499<br />

Best of Northern Spain<br />

(8 days, Barcelona-Madrid)<br />

(GAESNS) see page 71 Fr $1,299<br />

Extend Your Stay in Madrid or Lisbon<br />

See pages 147-148<br />

FACEBOOK.COM/<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.AU<br />

Dynamic culture, thumping nightlife, compelling history, to-die-for cuisine, fresh local<br />

produce - the Iberian Peninsula really is a gold mine of riches for every sense and interest.<br />

Wander the streets of Lisbon, learn about the Moorish history in Cordoba (El Cid, Don<br />

Quixote...ring any bells?), be treated to a lively flamenco performance in Seville, witness<br />

Gaudi’s fantastical Barcelona with your own eyes, party in the buzzing Madrid, step up into<br />

the Pyrenees and live the culture alongside the locals themselves. If that sounds exciting<br />

already, trust us it will be even better in real life!<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-12<br />

13-15<br />

16-19<br />

20-22<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Lisbon<br />

Arrive in Lisbon, a fascinating city with over 20 centuries of history. Enjoy a little exploration on<br />

your own before meeting up with the group this evening. On Day 2, enjoy an orientation tour with<br />

your guide before you set off to explore its typical tile-covered building façades and narrow medieval<br />

streets. Listen out for Portugal’s traditional music, the fado, being played and sung at night.<br />

Evora / Algarve<br />

Today travel to Evora and enjoy an orientation walk including a visit to the ‘Chapel of Bones’, which<br />

is constructed almost entirely from the bones of thousands of people, and the centrally-located<br />

ruins of the Temple of Diana. Later, continue to beautiful Lagos, where, on Day 4, you will enjoy an<br />

included hike along the golden cliffs and sandy coves of the Algarve.<br />

Seville<br />

This morning, head to one of the most exciting cities in Spain, Seville. After an orientation walk, you<br />

will have two days to explore this amazing city with its winding medieval lanes and romantic, hidden<br />

plazas. Sample the best tapas in Spain and get a taste of Seville’s energetic pulse with an included<br />

visit to a dramatic evening flamenco performance.<br />

Cordoba / Granada<br />

Set off to Granada with a stop in Cordoba to visit its incredible Moorish Mosque, the Mezquite-<br />

Catedral, and the medieval Jewish Quarter, full of narrow lanes and traditional houses. Experience<br />

the stunning sunset along the banks of the Guadalquivir River and sample some of the region’s divine<br />

food. On Day 8, it is on to the city of Granada, where there will be an included visit to the Alhambra<br />

Palace, one of the greatest accomplishments of Islamic art and architecture.<br />

Madrid / Valencia<br />

Welcome to the lively and buzzing Madrid, pulsing with sheer energy and offering it all - architecture,<br />

museums, amazing tapas bars, beautiful parks and wild nightlife. Set off on an included orientation<br />

walk before an optional visit to the Museo del Prado and an evening tapas and wine bar walk. On Day<br />

11, travel to the vibrant city of Valencia and enjoy an orientation walk of the Old Quarter. Opt to<br />

visit the Valencia City of Arts and Sciences or relax at one of the beautiful beaches.<br />

Barcelona<br />

Known worldwide for its dynamic atmosphere and exciting style, Barcelona never disappoints.<br />

Familiarise yourself with the sights of the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas on a walking tour, visit<br />

Gaudi’s Parc Güell and enjoy an evening of tapas and wine to round out the days.<br />

Pyrenees / Bilbao / San Sebastian<br />

Head into the Pyrenees Mountains for a two-night stay in a ‘casa rural’, or converted farmhouse,<br />

where you’ll enjoy home-cooked meals and some optional hikes in this beautiful region. Catch the bus<br />

to the stylish seaside resort of San Sebastian, your first stop in the Basque Country, where you can<br />

opt to take a tapas tour to learn about the region’s distinctive food and language. On Day 19, enjoy<br />

a day trip to Bilbao, known for the stunning Guggenheim Museum. (2B, 2D)<br />

Logrono / Madrid<br />

Head inland to the lovely and underrated city of Logrono, at the heart of the Rioja wine-producing<br />

region. It would be a crime not to sample the region’s local vintages, so we’ve included a wine tasting<br />

session. Head to ‘pintxo street’ this evening for a spot of bar-hopping and to sample great tapas. On<br />

Day 21, return to Madrid and enjoy some free time in the capital before departing the next day.<br />

74<br />

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TREKKING<br />

MONT BLANC<br />

LOIRE VALLEY<br />

FR<br />

$1,599 CYCLING<br />

FR<br />

$1,199<br />

Chamonix Chamonix 10 DAYS Blois Nantes<br />

8 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Trek the world-class hiking circuit of Europe’s highest peak<br />

• Conquer steep climbs and high mountain passes<br />

• Admire spectacular views of glaciers, valleys and Alpine meadows<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03<br />

04-05<br />

06-07<br />

08-10<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Chamonix / Les Contamines<br />

Arrive in Chamonix for a welcome meeting with your fellow hikers.<br />

On Day 2, take a cable car from Les Houches to Bellevue, and then<br />

hike through spruce forests and Alpine meadows past the Bionnassay<br />

Glacier. Descend to Les Contamines for a night in a mountain gite. (D)<br />

Les Contamines / Les Chapieux<br />

Today is the first real challenge as you have a steep ascent to the Col<br />

du Bonhomme (2,329m), a perfect lunch stop with awesome views.<br />

The auberge at Les Chapieux serves local specialities for dinner. (B, D)<br />

Les Chapieux / Courmayeur<br />

Climb to the Col de la Seigne (2,516m) and the border with Italy.<br />

Today’s route is demanding, but the views are fabulous and Day 5 is<br />

at leisure to recover in the town of Courmayeur. There’s an optional<br />

cable car ride to Pointe Helbronner on Mont Blanc. (2B)<br />

Courmayeur / Val Ferret / La Fouly<br />

The steep climb up to Rifugio Bertone (1,970m) is rewarded with a<br />

great view of Mont Blanc Massif. Continue along the Mont de la Saxe<br />

for a picnic lunch facing the ridge of the Grandes Jorasses, before<br />

descending to the Italian Val Ferret. Start Day 7 with a steep climb to<br />

cross the Grand Col Ferret (2,537m) and drop down into Switzerland.<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> on to the Swiss mountain village of La Fouly. (2B, 2D)<br />

Trient / Chamonix<br />

Hike the ‘Bovine Way’; an ancient trail used to access the high<br />

summer cow pastures. Cross the Col de la Forclaz and down into<br />

Trient. On Day 9, a final day of trekking takes you over the Col de la<br />

Balme back into France’s Chamonix Valley, for a bus or train ride back<br />

to Chamonix. Tour ends after breakfast on Day 10. (2B, D)<br />

Highlights<br />

• Cycle through the history books at a string of glorious châteaux<br />

• Take time to appreciate the lush scenery of Loire Valley<br />

• Pedal through the ‘Garden of France’ and sample regional produce<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05<br />

06<br />

07-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Blois / Chenonceau<br />

Arrive at any time and spend your day in the twisting streets of the<br />

town, or sample delicious French cuisine. Start Day 2 pedalling the<br />

French countryside. On your way to Chenonceau, stop at Château de<br />

Blois and get a real sense of the regal history in the Loire. (B)<br />

Tours / Chinon<br />

Continue on to the spectacular Château de Chenonceau, then through<br />

villages to the town of Tours, passing the city of Amboise. Stop by<br />

the markets to pick up some succlulent treats! Day 4 begins cycling<br />

along the river passing the meadows of the Loire to Chinon. Along<br />

the route stop at Château Usse and the famous Renaissance era<br />

gardens of the Château de Villandry before arriving in Chinon. (2B, L)<br />

Saumur<br />

Visit a vineyard to sample some Chinon red wine. As you cycle in<br />

the shadow of a steep limestone cliff, known as ‘Tuffeau’ you’ll pass<br />

houses built out of the cliff face, visit troglodyte caves and wine<br />

cellars. See a unique regional sight, ‘pommes tapees’, translated as<br />

hammered apples. Arrive in Saumur for the night. (B)<br />

Gennes<br />

On today’s ride, you might even be able to sample the delicious fruit<br />

sold in the harvest season from roadside stalls. Visit the unusual<br />

mushroom caves of the Musée du Champignon. In Gennes, visit the<br />

château of Milly-le-Meugon. (B)<br />

Angers / Nantes<br />

Once in Angers, visit the château, famous for the Apocalypse<br />

Tapestry, and make the most of the cuisine and wine from the region.<br />

On Day 8, take the train to Nantes where your trip ends. (2B)<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Active Service Level: Basic<br />

Physical Grading: 5 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (2 nts), basic hotels<br />

(2 nts, possibly multishare), mountain refuges<br />

(5 nts) Transport: Local bus, cable car<br />

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 dinners Budget: Allow<br />

EUR240-315 for meals not included Group<br />

Leader: Qualified International Mountain<br />

Leader as Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group<br />

Size: Max 12, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEFMB<br />

Departures 2014<br />

Jun - Sep<br />

Selected Mondays, Thursdays & Saturdays<br />

Trient<br />

Chamonix<br />

1<br />

Les<br />

Contamines<br />

1<br />

SWITZERLAND<br />

2<br />

1 1<br />

Les Chapieux<br />

La Fouly<br />

Val<br />

Ferret<br />

Courmayeur<br />

I T A L Y<br />

FRANCE<br />

2<br />

1<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (7 nts) Transport:<br />

Train, bus, bicycle Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1<br />

lunch Budget: Allow EUR340-415 for meals<br />

not included Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO) throughout Group Size: Max 12,<br />

Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEFAA<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 17 May 24<br />

Jun 21 Jun 28<br />

Jul 12 Jul 19<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 26 Aug 02<br />

Aug 16 Aug 23<br />

Aug 30 Sep 06<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 13 Sep 20<br />

Oct 04 Oct 11<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

ENGLISH CHANNEL<br />

Blois<br />

Angers 1<br />

Tours<br />

1<br />

Nantes<br />

1<br />

Gennes<br />

Saumur<br />

1<br />

1<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Chinon<br />

Chenonceau<br />

FRANCE<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

75


FRANCE & ITALY ADVENTURE<br />

Paris Rome<br />

FR<br />

$2,599<br />

14 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

ENGLAND<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

Highlights<br />

• Admire charming medieval cities<br />

• Stroll the chic streets of Paris<br />

• HIke the glorious Cinque Terre<br />

• Taste fine wines and local delicacies<br />

• Soak up the real European vibe<br />

• Witness Florence’s masterpieces<br />

• Explore Rome’s museum-like streets<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

May 30 Jun 12<br />

Jun 06 Jun 19<br />

Jun 20 Jul 03<br />

Inclusions<br />

ENGLISH<br />

CHANNEL<br />

1<br />

Beaune<br />

FRANCE<br />

Paris<br />

2<br />

Avignon<br />

2<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jul 04 Jul 17<br />

Aug 01 Aug 14<br />

Sep 05 Sep 18<br />

Monaco<br />

2<br />

Nice<br />

MEDITERRANEAN SEA<br />

2<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 12 Sep 25<br />

Sep 19 Oct 02<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (13 nts) Transport:<br />

Public bus, train Meals: 1 dinner Budget:<br />

Allow EUR 430-565 for meals not included<br />

Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)<br />

throughout, local guides Group Size: Max 16,<br />

Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEFPI<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $1,199<br />

ITALY<br />

Cinque<br />

Terre<br />

ADRIATIC<br />

SEA<br />

2<br />

Florence<br />

2<br />

Rome<br />

Start the adventure<br />

Raise your glass to the best of France and Italy! Get seduced by the colourful cultures of<br />

these beautiful countries, where daily life is woven around café terraces, village squares,<br />

produce-laden markets, unbelievable architecture and oh-so-delicious traditional cuisines.<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> from Paris to Rome and savour some of the most enticing cultural and natural<br />

highlights. Get your head spinning in Paris, sip wine in Burgundy, feast on local delicacies in<br />

Provence, experience the real ‘dolce vita’ following scenic tracks along Italy’s Cinque Terre<br />

coast and prepare to be amazed by the astonishing architecture of Rome.<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04-05<br />

06-07<br />

08-11<br />

12-14<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Paris<br />

Arrive to Paris, the city of love, and prepare to discover its certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ as you wander<br />

through the arty Montparnasse, marvel at the Arc de Triomphe, stare at the priceless works of art at<br />

the Louvre, stroll the glamorous Champs-Élysées, cruise down the river Seine or challenge the steps<br />

of the Eiffel Tower. Smell the love in the air!<br />

Beaune<br />

Today, arrive to the charming town of Beaune, best known for its wine: making it, tasting it, selling<br />

it, but most of all, drinking it. Enjoy an included local wine tasting as an introduction to the region’s<br />

famous vintage. Visit the local markets and the historic centre before enjoying an optional dinner<br />

with your group here in the heart of Burgundy, one of France’s most distinguished culinary and wineproducing<br />

regions. Spend Day 3 visiting neighbouring Dijon or exploring the famous Beaune Hospice,<br />

France’s most splendid medieval charity hospital.<br />

Avignon<br />

Take the train to the heart of lavender-scented Provence and the spectacular walled medieval town of<br />

Avignon, ringed by amazingly well-preserved 800-year-old stone ramparts. Explore the magnificent<br />

art and architecture, none grander than the impressive medieval fortress, the Papal Palace. Visit Pont<br />

St. Bezenet and top-notch museums, as well as ancient cobbled streets and leafy squares bustling<br />

with cafés and restaurants offering gorgeous Provençal cuisine.<br />

Nice / Monaco<br />

Today, arrive to the gleaming Mediterranean coast and the Côte d’Azur’s cultured capital, Nice. With<br />

its mix of modern city grit, old-world opulence and year-round sunshine, Nice is the place to be! Soak<br />

up the amazing atmosphere, visit some of the must-see museums and explore the ancient Roman city<br />

of Cemenelum. Spend the evening wandering the romantic old town streets and treating yourself at<br />

some of France’s best bars and trendiest restaurants. Take a day trip to the principality of Monaco,<br />

the world’s second-smallest country, to admire the expensive yachts lining its glamorous marina.<br />

Cinque Terre / Pisa / Florence<br />

Head along the coast into Italy and spend two nights by the sensational Cinque Terre National Park,<br />

where five little villages are built into the rocks between the beach and the hills. Get your heart<br />

racing on the coastal walk or meander from town to town with an included train pass. On Day 10,<br />

continue to the town of Pisa and its Leaning Tower, drawing its fame from an architectual project<br />

gone seriously wrong! Continue to the heart of Tuscany and enjoy a relaxing walk in the Renaissance<br />

city of Florence. Pay a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo for a stunning panoramic view of the city. Opt to<br />

see the Statue of David, wander the Uffizzi Gallery or swing by the shopping stalls.<br />

Rome<br />

Welcome to one of the world’s most alluring and seductive cities; Bella Roma! Take an orientation<br />

walk of the thrilling Italian capital before a free afternoon for a spot of independent exploration.<br />

Nicknamed the ‘Eternal City’, Rome is also home to His Holiness the Pope, whose residence at<br />

the Vatican City is a sovereign state within the city of Rome. Visit the Roman Forum, the famous<br />

Colosseum where the gladiators battled to the death, and the Catacombs that entombed early<br />

Christians. In the evening, enjoy a true taste of Italy with a Roman meal with some new local friends.<br />

Your tour ends on Day 14 and you are free to depart this living history museum at any time but not<br />

before you turn your back on the Trevi Fountain and throw a coin over your shoulder into the water;<br />

it’s said this will ensure your safe return to the city. Well, who wouldn’t want to come back? (D)<br />

76<br />

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ULTIMATE<br />

ITALY<br />

FR<br />

$2,499<br />

ITALIAN<br />

ADVENTURE<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR<br />

$409 / FR $395<br />

Rome Venice 14 DAYS Rome Rome<br />

3 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Relax at a pavement café in Siena’s magnificent Piazza del Campo<br />

• Marvel at a Mediterranean sunset in the Cinque Terre<br />

• Admire the splendour of Lake Como’s waterfront villas and mansions<br />

DAY<br />

01-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-09<br />

10-11<br />

12-14<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Rome / Siena<br />

Get yourself to Rome and start discovering this Eternal City. There<br />

will be an orientation walk on Day 2 before a free day to explore<br />

myriad options. On Days 3 and 4, take on Siena, one of Italy’s<br />

best-preserved medieval towns, starting your exploration with an<br />

orientation walk and a spot of Chianti wine tasting. (D)<br />

Florence<br />

Jump on a local bus for the journey to the Tuscan capital. Exquisite is<br />

the only way we can describe Florence, so enjoy spending your time<br />

exploring this open-air, living, breathing museum of Renaissance art.<br />

Lucca / Pisa / Cinque Terre<br />

Head to the beautiful little Tuscan town of Lucca. Spend a day<br />

exploring the piazzas, towers and churches of this enchanting walled<br />

city. After a half-day visit to Pisa on Day 8, take the train to the<br />

Cinque Terre National Park. Five stunning villages are sandwiched<br />

between the beach and the hills, and the whole area has been<br />

designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meander from one town<br />

to the next with an included train pass.<br />

Como<br />

Just north of Milan, the town of Como is the gateway to its namesake<br />

lake, the Lago di Como. With an included day pass for the boat<br />

services on the lake, you can explore resorts and villages such as<br />

Bellagio, often described as the most beautiful town in all of Europe.<br />

Venice<br />

Venice is embellished with monuments of rare splendour that make<br />

it a city like no other in the world. Explore the canals on an optional<br />

gondola cruise, and take time to discover sights including the Doge’s<br />

Palace. The tour comes to an end on Day 14, depart at any time.<br />

Highlights<br />

• Discover ancient Roman life on a guided tour of the ruins of Pompeii<br />

• Enjoy the glamorous Isle of Capri with its famous Blue Grotto<br />

• Treat yourself with some home-made gelato and a shot of limoncello<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02<br />

03<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Rome / Pompeii / Sorrento<br />

Rise and shine for an early departure from Rome down to Pompeii,<br />

Europe’s most compelling archaeological site and one of Italy’s<br />

most visited tourist attractions. Enjoy a tour of this UNESCO World<br />

Heritage site, whose treasures were buried by the volcanic eruption<br />

of Mt. Vesuvius. Continue down the Amalfi Coast, twisting through<br />

a succession of lovely villages to the resort of Sorrento, your base<br />

for the next two nights. Dip in the pool or visit the campsite beach<br />

before heading into sun-kissed Sorrento for an orientation walk, a<br />

limoncello and chocolate tasting and an optional meal at a traditional<br />

restaurant followed by a few cocktails at some local bars.<br />

Isle of Capri<br />

Get a taste of the real ‘dolce vita’ as you spend the whole day on<br />

the Isle of Capri. Tour along the coastline and check out the surreal<br />

Blue Grotto, incredible celebrity homes and gorgeous scenery. Take<br />

the cable car up to Anacapri and look out for the paparazzi chasing<br />

the visiting celebrities. Discover true Italian ice cream and enjoy the<br />

beach before heading up to the spectacular Giardini di Augosto for a<br />

view of the Faraglioni rocks. Return to Sorrento for the night.<br />

Amalfi Coast / Rome<br />

Make the most of your final day driving the spectacular Amalfi<br />

coastline, past the town of Positano, with relaxed stops in Amalfi<br />

and Ravello. For a true taste of the Italian South chill out on the<br />

beach and eat the best cakes ever at the local bakeries in Amalfi. In<br />

the afternoon, head back to Rome where the trip concludes - local<br />

traffic conditions mean we cannot guarantee the return time. We<br />

recommend you book your onward travel the day after your trip ends.<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (13 nts) Transport:<br />

Public bus, train, boat Meals: 1 dinner Budget:<br />

Allow EUR 430-565 for meals not included<br />

Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)<br />

throughout Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12<br />

Tour Code: GAEIRV<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $799<br />

Departures 2014<br />

Mar - Oct<br />

Selected Sundays, typically 2-3<br />

departures per month<br />

Como<br />

2<br />

ITALY<br />

Cinque<br />

2 Terre<br />

Lucca<br />

1<br />

2 Florence<br />

Pisa<br />

2<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Venice<br />

Siena<br />

2<br />

2<br />

AEGEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Rome<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: Twin share tent-cabins (2<br />

nts) Transport: Modern air-conditioned coach<br />

Meals: None included Group Leader: Guide<br />

& Driver team Group Size: Avg 35 Notes:<br />

Included tour of Pompeii & Sorrento, boat trip<br />

to/around Capri (weather permitting), limoncello<br />

& chocolate tasting, free Lonely Planet guide<br />

Tour Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

May - Sep<br />

Every Monday & Friday and selected<br />

Wednesdays<br />

Rome<br />

ITALY<br />

Sorrento<br />

Isle of<br />

Capri<br />

Pompeii<br />

2<br />

ADRIATIC SEA<br />

Ravello<br />

Amalfi<br />

Coast<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

77


SIMPLY<br />

ITALY<br />

ITALIAN<br />

FR<br />

$1,985 ESPRESSO<br />

FR<br />

$1,419<br />

Rome Rome 12 DAYS Rome Venice or Rome<br />

8 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Boat trip to the beautiful and romantic Isle of Capri<br />

• Take in the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo on a tour of Florence<br />

• Explore the dramatic cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03<br />

04-05<br />

06-07<br />

08-09<br />

10-12<br />

Inclusions<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Rome / Sorrento<br />

Check-in to your hotel and meet your new travel friends over dinner.<br />

On Day 2, travel south towards Naples, before arriving into the<br />

charming holiday resort of Sorrento. Enjoy a sunset drink overlooking<br />

the Bay of Naples. (B, D)<br />

Capri<br />

Take the boat over to the glamorous Isle of Capri, famous for its<br />

natural beauty, caves and rock formations. Explore the hillside town<br />

of Anacapri, or take an optional cruise to the Blue Grotto. (B, D)<br />

Sorrento / Florence<br />

Head north to enjoy a spot of wine tasting in the Chianti region,<br />

before admiring the rolling hills of Tuscany en route to Renaissance<br />

Florence. A local guide will help bring all its secrets to life. (2B, D)<br />

Florence / Verona / Venice<br />

Stop to admire Romeo and Juliet’s balcony in Verona, before arriving<br />

into Venice, where there’s time to explore its alleyways and grand<br />

squares, plus an optional gondola ride to admire its canals. (2B)<br />

Venice / Lake Garda / Milan / La Spezia (Cinque Terre)<br />

Call into the lakeside resort of Sirmione, before reaching Italy’s<br />

fashion capital and economic powerhouse, Milan. Discover the<br />

stunning cliffside village of the Cinque Terre on Day 09. (2B, D)<br />

La Spezia / Pisa / Rome<br />

They say ‘all roads lead to Rome’, and that’s true today but not<br />

before you’ve stopped in Pisa to check out its famous Leaning Tower.<br />

In Rome, enjoy a guided tour of the Vatican and soak up ‘La Dolce<br />

Vita’. The tour concludes after breakfast on Day 12. (3B)<br />

Service Level: Superior Age Group: Only for<br />

18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (11 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern, air-conditioned coach<br />

with power points for charging Meals: 11<br />

breakfasts, 4 dinners Group Leader: Tour<br />

Manager & Driver Group Size: Max 51 Notes:<br />

Hotel tips, local taxes and service charges are<br />

included Tour Code: COBBSY / COWWSY<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Feb 03 Feb 14 Jun 15 Jun 26 Sep 07 Sep 18<br />

Mar 03 Mar 14 Jun 25 Jul 06 Sep 14 Sep 25<br />

Apr 06 Apr 17 Jul 02 Jul 13 Sep 28 Oct 09<br />

May 04 May 15<br />

May 18 May 29<br />

Jul 13<br />

Jul 23<br />

Jul 24<br />

Aug 03<br />

Oct 20<br />

Nov 03<br />

Oct 31<br />

Nov 14<br />

Jun 01 Jun 12 Aug 10 Aug 21 Dec 01 Dec 12<br />

Jun 08 Jun 19 Aug 31 Sep 11 Dec 29 Jan 09<br />

Additional departure dates are available, ask for details<br />

Milan Lake Garda<br />

1 2 Venice<br />

La Verona<br />

Spezia<br />

1<br />

Cinque 2 Florence<br />

Terre<br />

Chianti Region<br />

Pisa<br />

Apennine Mountains<br />

ITALY<br />

Rome<br />

3<br />

Vatican City<br />

Mt.<br />

Vesuvius<br />

Pompeii Naples<br />

Isle of Capri<br />

2<br />

Sorrento<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Highlights<br />

• Rome, Florence and Venice - Italy’s very own triple espresso!<br />

• Locally-guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel<br />

• Sample antipasto and Chianti at a 16th Century Tuscan castle<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05<br />

06<br />

07<br />

08<br />

Inclusions<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Rome<br />

Check-in and meet your new travel buddies, perhaps with time to<br />

enjoy a bit of independent sightseeing before dinner. Though modern<br />

and cosmopolitan today, the ancient monuments that litter the<br />

streets of Rome can sometimes make this powerhouse of the former<br />

Roman Empire feel like a living museum. An optional sightseeing tour<br />

on Day 2 introduces highlights such as the Colosseum. (B, D)<br />

Rome / Florence<br />

Enjoy views of terraced vineyards as you pass through the rolling hills<br />

of Umbria en route to the Renaissance splendour of Florence, one of<br />

Europe’s most enlightened and cultured cities. A local guide gives you<br />

the inside track on the city’s sacred art and striking buildings. (2B, D)<br />

Florence<br />

Today’s day trip into the Chianti region offers the perfect excuse<br />

to enjoy a spot of wine tasting. Also visit the medieval town of San<br />

Gimignano, the classic Tuscany of your imagination. (B)<br />

Florence / Venice<br />

Pick up some designer gear at bargain prices this morning at a stylish<br />

outlet mall. Later, romance could be on the cards in Verona, where<br />

you’ll see Romeo and Juliet’s balcony, before arriving in Venice. (B, D)<br />

Venice<br />

There’s no better place to find yourself lost than in the narrow<br />

alleyways and winding canals of Venice, where there’s also a chance<br />

to enjoy an unforgettable gondola ride to take it all in. (B)<br />

Venice / Rome<br />

The tour concludes after breakfast in Venice, or you can opt to take<br />

a complimentary transfer back to Rome. (B)<br />

Service Level: Superior Age Group: Only<br />

for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (7 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern air-conditioned coach with<br />

power points for charging Meals: 7 breakfasts,<br />

3 dinners Group Leader: Tour Manager &<br />

Driver team Group Size: Max 51 Notes: Hotel<br />

tips, local taxes & service charges included<br />

Tour Code: COBBHI / COWWHI<br />

Departures 2014/15<br />

FINISH<br />

Feb 22 Mar 01<br />

Mar 08 Mar 15<br />

Apr 12 Apr 19<br />

May 10 May 17<br />

May 24 May 31<br />

Jun 14 Jun 21<br />

Jun 28 Jul 05<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 05 Jul 12<br />

Jul 19 Jul 26<br />

Aug 02 Aug 09<br />

Aug 16 Aug 23<br />

Sep 06 Sep 13<br />

Sep 20 Sep 27<br />

Oct 18 Oct 25<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Nov 22 Nov 29<br />

Dec 13 Dec 20<br />

Dec 27 Jan 03<br />

2015<br />

Jan 17 Jan 24<br />

Mar 21 Mar 28<br />

Departure dates for winter 2014/15 are to be confirmed.<br />

Ask your <strong>Travel</strong> Expert for details.<br />

Verona<br />

Pisa<br />

Chianti<br />

Region<br />

3<br />

San Gimignano<br />

2<br />

Vatican City<br />

Venice<br />

Barberino<br />

Florence<br />

Apennine Mountains<br />

2<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Rome<br />

ADRIATIC<br />

SEA<br />

ITALY<br />

78<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


THE BEST OF EASTERN EUROPE<br />

Berlin Budapest<br />

FR<br />

$1,999<br />

15 DAYS<br />

SLOVENIA<br />

Highlights<br />

• Climb the Reichstag’s dome in Berlin<br />

• Hike in the scenic Tatra Mountains<br />

• Learn about Auschwitz from a local<br />

• Grab an ice-cold Czech beer in Prague<br />

• Go rafting along the River Vltava<br />

• Waltz your way through Vienna<br />

• Pick your favourite – Buda or Pest?<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

May 11 May 25<br />

May 25 Jun 08<br />

Jun 08 Jun 22<br />

Jun 15 Jun 29<br />

Jun 29 Jul 13<br />

Inclusions<br />

Berlin<br />

GERMANY<br />

Prague<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

POLAND<br />

Krakow<br />

CZECH REPUBLIC<br />

2<br />

Zakopane<br />

2<br />

SLOV AKIA<br />

Ceský ˇ<br />

Krumlov<br />

2<br />

Vienna<br />

AEGEAN<br />

SEA<br />

2<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jul 06 Jul 20<br />

Jul 20 Aug 03<br />

Jul 27 Aug 10<br />

Aug 10 Aug 24<br />

Aug 17 Aug 31<br />

2 2<br />

Bratislava<br />

1<br />

HUNGAR Y<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 31 Sep 14<br />

Sep 07 Sep 21<br />

Sep 14 Sep 28<br />

Sep 28 Oct 12<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels/pensions (14 nts)<br />

Transport: Train, private bus, local bus<br />

Meals: 14 breakfasts Budget: Allow EUR 335-<br />

440 for meals not included Group Leader:<br />

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size:<br />

Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEABE<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $899<br />

Warsaw<br />

1<br />

Budapest<br />

From the urban attractions of Berlin to the ‘Pearl of the Danube’, Budapest, this two-week<br />

trip through Central and Eastern Europe offers an intriguing combination of historic towns,<br />

village life and outdoor pursuits. Float down the river on a traditional raft, enjoy hiking in<br />

the scenic Tatra Mountains and savour the café cultures of Prague and Vienna. Experience<br />

the unique culture, food and history of Eastern Europe, and grab your sightseeing checklist<br />

of must-do cities, from trend-setting Berlin to the medieval streets of Prague, this little<br />

beauty will tick them all off!<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03<br />

04-05<br />

06-07<br />

08-09<br />

10-11<br />

12-13<br />

14-15<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Berlin<br />

Make your own way to Berlin and meet up with your new travel mates this evening. Day 2 is yours<br />

to discover this amazing city, which has many tangible reminders of its starring role in the history<br />

of both Germany and Europe – not least the Reichstag, ‘Checkpoint Charlie’ and surviving fragments<br />

of the Berlin Wall. Districts such as edgy Kreuzberg and bohemian Prenzlauer Berg are well worth<br />

exploring, by day and by night. (B)<br />

Warsaw<br />

Poland’s reconstructed capital is a testament to the courage and determination of its people, and the<br />

city’s story can be learnt with an included visit to the unmissable Warsaw Historical Museum. Smaller<br />

museums of interest here are dedicated to Frédéric Chopin and Marie Curie, amongst others; all are<br />

well worth a visit. (B)<br />

Warsaw / Zakopane (High Tatra Mountains)<br />

Visit the unmissable Warsaw Rising Museum in the morning then take in the relaxed, laid-back vibe<br />

of the outdoors resort town of Zakopane, at the foot of the High Tatra Mountains, where there’s time<br />

to enjoy one of the many hiking options in this breathtaking region. (2B)<br />

Krakow<br />

An effortlessly beautiful city, Krakow is centred on Europe’s largest medieval square, the Rynek<br />

Glowny. It’s hard to know what to explore first in Krakow; the attractive Old Town which miraculously<br />

escaped significant damage in WWII, or the former royal residences sitting proudly atop Wawel Hill.<br />

Included is a visit to the former concentration camp at nearby Auschwitz, a sobering reminder of<br />

man’s inhumanity to man, followed by an overnight train to Prague. (2B)<br />

Prague<br />

Regarded by many as the unspoilt jewel in Europe’s historic crown, there’s time in the Bohemian Czech<br />

capital to simply soak up the atmosphere of its unique cobbled streets, where it seems every building<br />

has its own story to tell. Find a little beer garden and grab a cold glass of Pilsner as you watch the<br />

sun set over the Vltava River. (2B)<br />

Prague / Ceský Krumlov<br />

Step back into medieval times with a visit to the castle in Ceský ˇ Krumlov. The castle towers over the<br />

fairytale-like streets of this gorgeous town, whose graceful Renaissance and Baroque houses line<br />

the banks of a sharp bend in the River Vltava. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site oozing with<br />

culture, history and life before taking to the water with an afternoon of rafting. (2B)<br />

Vienna<br />

Enjoy a walking tour of some of Vienna’s most beautiful sights including St. Stephen’s Cathedral and<br />

the Hofburg Palace, the former city home of the Habsburg Emperors. Austria’s capital has plenty of<br />

other diversions too. We’d like to recommend the Schönbrunn Palace, but we’d understand if you got<br />

distracted by the superb gateaux served in the elegant cafés. (2B)<br />

Bratislava / Budapest<br />

Enjoy a visit to Slovakia’s charming but little-known capital, Bratislava, before continuing on to<br />

Budapest. There’s plenty to explore here, both in historic Buda and modern Pest, which face each<br />

other from either side of the River Danube. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the city’s many<br />

thermal spas, which range from the open-air Szécheny Baths to the magnificent Gellért Baths. Your<br />

tour ends on Day 15, and you’re free to leave at any time of your choosing. (2B)<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

79


EASTERN ROAD<br />

Berlin Warsaw or Berlin<br />

FR<br />

$2,389<br />

13 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Soak up Berlin’s unbelievable nightlife<br />

• Admire the rebuilt city of Dresden<br />

• Sample Czech beers in Prague<br />

• Tuck into schnitzel and strudel<br />

• Relax in Budapest’s thermal spa baths<br />

• Check out Krakow’s beautiful old town<br />

• Visit Auschwitz concentration camp<br />

• Take a tour of Warsaw’s Jewish Ghetto<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Apr 27 May 09 Jul 13 Jul 25 Sep 07 Sep 19<br />

May 25 Jun 06 Jul 20 Aug 01 Sep 21 Oct 03<br />

Jun 08 Jun 20 Aug 03 Aug 15<br />

Jun 29 Jul 11 Aug 17 Aug 29<br />

Additional departure dates are available, please ask for details<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Superior Age Group: Only for<br />

18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (12 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern, air-conditioned coach<br />

with power points for charging Meals: 12<br />

breakfasts, 4 dinners Group Leader: Tour<br />

Manager & Driver Group Size: Max 51 Notes:<br />

Hotel tips, local taxes and service charges are<br />

included Tour Code: COBBRH<br />

Berlin<br />

2<br />

GERMANY<br />

Dresden<br />

2<br />

Kutna Hora<br />

Prague<br />

CZECH REP<br />

Vienna<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

You might like<br />

Czestochowa<br />

2<br />

2<br />

HUNGARY<br />

POLAND<br />

Warsaw<br />

2<br />

Auschwitz<br />

Krakow<br />

Banska<br />

Bystrica<br />

Budapest<br />

Our Top Optional Activities:<br />

• Locally-guided walking tour of Berlin<br />

• Traditional Czech dinner in Prague<br />

• Classical music concert in Vienna<br />

• Guided tour of Poland’s salt mines<br />

2<br />

Take a peek behind the former ‘Iron Curtain’ on this amazing six-country tour and find out<br />

exactly why Eastern Europe is right now one of the hottest destinations on the planet.<br />

From the edgy and exciting city of Berlin, you’ll visit historic Prague and cultured Vienna,<br />

the showcase capital of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire. Straddle the Danube River as<br />

you explore the twin cities of Buda and Pest before moving on into Poland, where you’ll<br />

have four nights to discover the sights and sounds of Krakow and Warsaw. The history and<br />

beauty of these fascinating destinations will captivate your imagination.<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03<br />

04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-10<br />

11-12<br />

13<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Berlin<br />

Arrive in Berlin, and meet your group over dinner. On Day 2, hit the ground running as you soak<br />

up the intoxicating mix of old and new in this ever-changing city. See commemorative artwork and<br />

graffiti on the remains of the Berlin Wall, visit the sight of ‘Checkpoint Charlie’, explore the beautiful<br />

Tiergarten and snap yourself under the Brandenburg Gate. Berlin is truly one of Europe’s most<br />

exciting cities, and the nights are even more fun than the daytimes, so head out into the mix. (B, D)<br />

Berlin / Dresden / Prague<br />

Make a rewarding stop in historic Dresden on your way south to Prague. Dresden was almost totally<br />

destroyed during World War II, having previously been known as the ‘Florence of the North’. It rose<br />

phoenix-like from the ashes and was painstakingly rebuilt in the Baroque style, so today you can<br />

admire stunning architecture such as the Royal Residence, Opera House and Frauenkirche. (B, D)<br />

Prague<br />

You have the full day to get to grips with the sights, the history and the stupidly cheap beer on<br />

offer in this Bohemian beauty! Wander the maze of cobbled streets as you hunt for souvenirs and<br />

treasures in the old town, stroll across the Charles Bridge to explore Hradcany Castle and St. Vitus’<br />

Cathedral, or bag yourself a prime spot on Wenceslas Square for some people-watching. (B)<br />

Prague / Vienna<br />

Head south through the Czech countryside via the small town of Kutna Hora on your way to explore<br />

Austria’s cultured capital; Vienna. Take a scenic drive along the city’s showpiece Ring Road, and<br />

admire the beautiful architecture of the Habsburg Palaces, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the elegant<br />

State Opera House. Day 6 is yours to stuff yourself silly with strudel and scream yourself hoarse on<br />

the theme park rides at Prater Park. More cultured activities are available too, of course, you might<br />

prefer to spend your time wandering through art galleries, admiring the jewellery collection of the<br />

Habsburgs, taking in an optional Mozart concert or checking out the schnapps museum! (2B)<br />

Vienna / Budapest<br />

On Day 7, hop across the Hungarian border to visit Budapest. Head over to the castle district for<br />

lovely views along the Danube River, taking in sights such as the Church of St. Mattias, the Chain<br />

Bridge and Hungary’s beautiful parliament building. The next day is a free day to explore; all your<br />

senses are surrounded by the history of this city; split into hilltop Buda and bustling Pest. (2B)<br />

Budapest / Banska Bystrica / Krakow<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> north through Slovakia and stop for lunch in Banska Bystrica before arriving in Krakow. On Day<br />

10, wander through the lively market stalls and enjoy a guided tour of the Cathedral and Royal Castle<br />

on Wawel Hill. Alternatively, choose an optional guided tour of the amazing salt mines. (2B, D)<br />

Krakow / Auschwitz / Warsaw<br />

This morning’s first stop is at the WWII concentration camp of Auschwitz to understand more about<br />

the horrors of the Holocaust. Then head off to explore Warsaw; Poland’s revitalised capital where you<br />

can immerse yourself in its impressive cultural scene and thriving nightlife. On Day 12, take a guided<br />

tour of the old town, the Royal Palace and Warsaw’s Jewish Ghetto. (2B, D)<br />

Warsaw / Berlin<br />

The tour ends after breakfast this morning, so it’s time to say goodbye and swap e-mail addresses<br />

with your travelling mates. You can stay on in Warsaw or take the free transfer back to Berlin where<br />

your tour will end upon arrival. (B)<br />

80<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


BERLIN TO<br />

BUDAPEST<br />

SKI<br />

FR<br />

$1,685 AUSTRIA<br />

FR<br />

$905<br />

Berlin Budapest 11 DAYS London (or Austria) London (or Austria) 9 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Cruise the bohemian streets of Prague by bike (summer only)<br />

• Experience the opulent lifestyle of the Habsburg Emperors in Vienna<br />

• Goulash galore as you enjoy a Hungarian dinner cruise in Budapest<br />

DAY<br />

01-03<br />

04-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-11<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Berlin<br />

All you have to do is get yourself to Berlin on Day 1. If there’s time,<br />

head out and explore before meeting up with the rest of your group<br />

this evening. Over the next two days, you’ll get under the skin of this<br />

urban utopia. Get a feel for the city’s history and visit the remaining<br />

sections of the Berlin Wall, Alexanderplatz, the Jewish Memorial,<br />

Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag. You can shop the cool markets, eat<br />

delicious German food and party tonight in the cool clubs. (2B, D)<br />

Berlin / Dresden / Prague<br />

Head through Dresden; a beautiful city with a tragic history and<br />

enjoy lunch in a riverside beer garden before travelling on to Prague.<br />

You’ll have two days to explore the sights starting with a walking<br />

tour over the Charles Bridge to discover Hradcany Castle and St.<br />

Vitus’ Cathedral. Uncover the hidden treasures of the old town as you<br />

navigate through little lanes, alleys and courtyards. By night there’s<br />

something for everyone from jazz bars and hip DJs to opera. (3B, D)<br />

Prague / Kutna Hora / Vienna<br />

Next stop is the cultural hub of Vienna, from where the Habsburg<br />

Emperors once ruled huge swathes of Central Europe. This city was<br />

designed to impress, and boasts a legacy of grand architecture<br />

including the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and the Baroque-style<br />

State Opera House. In the evening, you might like to see a classical<br />

music concert in one of the city’s many theatres and palaces. (2B, D)<br />

Vienna / Bratislava / Budapest<br />

A quick stop in Bratislava before reaching Budapest, two cities rolled<br />

into one. Buda and Pest sit on different sides of the river, but bring<br />

together the stunning buildings and atmosphere that makes Hungary<br />

so romantic. The tour ends after breakfast on Day 11. (3B, D)<br />

Highlights<br />

• Ski and snowboard your way down 279kms of runs for all abilities<br />

• Enjoy an excursion to Salzburg, home of the musical Von Trapps<br />

• Socialise with party nights at the gasthof and some lively après-ski<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02<br />

03-08<br />

09<br />

ITINERARY<br />

London / Hopfgarten<br />

This awesome week of skiing and snowboarding starts in London at<br />

7pm this evening as you board the overnight coach to Austria.<br />

Hopfgarten<br />

Arrive into the typically Tyrolean village of Hopfgarten and check-in<br />

to your gasthof, your home for the week. If you prefer (and at a small<br />

discount on the prices shown), make your own way to Austria and be<br />

picked up today either at Innsbruck Airport or Wörgl railway station,<br />

which has easy access from both Munich or Salzburg. The gasthof<br />

features single, twin and quad rooms, a cosy bar, Wi-Fi facilities, and<br />

serves a delicious hot buffet breakfast daily. Lift passes, ski school,<br />

snowboard lessons and all equipment hire can be arranged.<br />

Hopfgarten<br />

Hopfgarten is the perfect location for a ski or snowboard holiday<br />

and is your gateway to the SkiWelt, one of Europe’s top ski resort<br />

areas, which boasts over 279kms (174 miles) of piste incorporating<br />

63 beginners runs, 51 intermediate runs and 7 black runs, making<br />

it ideal for learners and hardcore snow fans alike. You’ll scope out<br />

the slopes with a couple of guided piste tours courtesy of a local ski<br />

guide and enjoy a day trip to Salzburg, the home of ‘The Sound of<br />

Music’. The rest of the time is free to explore the SkiWelt resort area,<br />

but don’t forget to practice for the fun of the Grand Slam, as you’ll<br />

want to show off your skills in this downhill race. By night, hang out<br />

in the gasthof bar or check out the après-ski scene at the pubs,<br />

clubs and outdoors schnaps stands. (6B)<br />

Hopfgarten / London<br />

An early departure this morning to board the return coach to London,<br />

where your tour comes to an end with a late evening arrival. (B)<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Superior Age Group: Only for<br />

18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern, air-conditioned coach<br />

with power points for charging Meals: 10<br />

breakfasts, 4 dinners Group Leader: Tour<br />

Manager & Driver Group Size: Max 51 Notes:<br />

Hotel tips, local taxes and service charges are<br />

included Tour Code: COBBIT / COWWIT<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jan 04 Jan 14 Jun 28 Jul 08 Sep 20 Sep 30<br />

Mar 09 Mar 19 Jul 12 Jul 22 Oct 18 Oct 28<br />

Apr 12 Apr 22 Jul 19 Jul 29 Nov 01 Nov 11<br />

May 10 May 20 Aug 02 Aug 12 Nov 29 Dec 09<br />

May 31 Jun 10 Aug 30 Sep 09 Dec 27 Jan 06<br />

Additional departure dates are available, ask for details<br />

Berlin<br />

3<br />

POLAND<br />

GERMANY<br />

Dresden<br />

3<br />

Kutna<br />

Hora<br />

CZECH REP<br />

Vienna<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

Prague<br />

2<br />

Bratislava<br />

2<br />

Budapest<br />

HUNGARY<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Superior Age Group: Only for<br />

18-35s Accommodation: Austrian gasthof (7<br />

nts), overnight coach (1 nt) Transport: Modern,<br />

coach with power points for charging Meals:<br />

7 breakfasts (upgrade to include 5 nights’ half<br />

board at a supplement) Group Leader: On-site<br />

team at the gasthof Tour Code: COC7SWBIT<br />

Departures 2014/15<br />

FINISH<br />

Jan 10 Jan 18<br />

Jan 17 Jan 25<br />

Jan 24 Feb 01<br />

Jan 31 Feb 08<br />

Feb 07 Feb 15<br />

Feb 14 Feb 22<br />

Feb 21 Mar 01<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Feb 28 Mar 08<br />

Dec 12 Dec 20<br />

Dec 19 Dec 27<br />

Dec 26 Jan 03<br />

2015<br />

Jan 02 Jan 10<br />

Jan 09 Jan 17<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jan 16 Jan 24<br />

Jan 23 Jan 31<br />

Jan 30 Feb 07<br />

Feb 06 Feb 14<br />

Feb 13 Feb 21<br />

Feb 20 Feb 28<br />

Feb 27 Mar 07<br />

GERMANY<br />

Munich<br />

Wörgl<br />

Salzburg<br />

Innsbruck<br />

Hopfgarten<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

ITALY<br />

SLOVENIA<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

81


BOHEMIAN<br />

TREK<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR<br />

$969 / FR $939<br />

CLASSIC<br />

RHAPSODY TREK<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR<br />

$1,179 / FR $1,145<br />

Split Prague 7 DAYS Prague Split<br />

9 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Uncover Slovenia’s Alpine playground; Lake Bled and its island church<br />

• Visit the Bohemian capital of Prague and ‘Czech’ out its charms<br />

• Wine tasting in Slovakia’s stunning Carpathian region<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04-05<br />

06-07<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Split / Zagreb<br />

A stunning drive through scenic mountains to buzzing Zagreb,<br />

Croatia’s capital. A city that oozes with energy and a zest for life,<br />

but still has a refreshing amount of old-world graciousness. After an<br />

orientation walk, hit the bars and local eateries with your new mates!<br />

Zagreb / Ljubljana / Lake Bled<br />

A short drive over the border to magnificent Slovenia this morning<br />

and en route you’ll stop and enjoy the eastern princess of Ljubljana.<br />

Later on, you’re back on the scenic road to Lake Bled. On Day 3, get<br />

your adventure fix with an optional day trip on the Emerald River.<br />

Here you can swim and raft your way through cascading waterfalls<br />

and mountain peaks, in the midst of the Slovenian Alps. (2B)<br />

Lake Bled / Bratislava<br />

Explore the lake and row out to the church perched beautifully on its<br />

island. After that, you’ll be Bratislava bound! After a city orientation,<br />

you’ll see its castles and its electric atmosphere. Head out for some<br />

local delicacies and inspect the bar scene. On Day 5, take a private<br />

tour and visit Devin Castle, lunch up high at the TV tower, visit the<br />

Slavin monument, Bratislava castle, a real operational bunker, then<br />

finish with wine tasting at a traditional Slovak restaurant. (2B)<br />

Bratislava / Prague<br />

Explore the small Czech town of Mikulov before being greeted by<br />

picture-perfect Prague. You’ll have time to see all of its iconic sights<br />

like the Old Town and Hradcany Castle, before indulging in absurdly<br />

cheap beers and unforgettable nightlife! Bid your farewells as your<br />

trip finishes after breakfast on Day 7. (2B)<br />

4 Day Mini Bohemian Trek (Split-Lake Bled) option available.<br />

Highlights<br />

• Visit the incredible Church of Human Bones in Kutna Hora<br />

• Pay your respects with a visit to infamous Auschwitz & Birkenau<br />

• Wander between the lakes in Croatia’s Plitvice National Park<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04-06<br />

07-09<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Prague / Kutna Hora / Olomouc<br />

Leaving the Czech capital this morning, your first stop is the UNESCO<br />

World Heritage town of Kutna Hora. Explore an ancient church made<br />

from human bones then head to Olomouc. Enjoy a city walk and an<br />

optional dinner in a Moravian restaurant, then it’s time to party. (B)<br />

Olomouc / Auschwitz / Birkenau / Krakow<br />

Stop for a visit at the Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps<br />

to learn about the sad and harrowing history of the Holocaust. It’s<br />

then on to Krakow, where the drinks are cheap and the nightlife is<br />

buzzing. On Day 3, explore the sights of this beautiful town. (2B)<br />

Krakow / Zakopane / Budapest<br />

A short drive to the adventure resort of Zakopane, where you’ll find<br />

mountains galore - hiker heaven! On Day 5, head for the Hungarian<br />

capital, Budapest, with an optional tank ride and stop in the Velka<br />

Fatra mountains. Enjoy a Danube River cruise and a night out. Day<br />

6 is yours to explore; chill out in the thermal baths, visit the best<br />

markets or explore the city by bike. (3B)<br />

Budapest / Plitvice / Split<br />

You’re off to Croatia today, with a swim stop at Lake Balaton. Visit<br />

the Balkan open-air war museum before arriving in Plitvice National<br />

Park at sunset for a barbecue and a few beers. On Day 8, explore<br />

the aqua-blue lakes and water wonderland of Plitvice National Park,<br />

before heading over lunar landscapes to Split and the Croatian coast.<br />

Check out the Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace before your last<br />

night. Day 9, and it’s time to say your sad farewells. (2B, D)<br />

7 Day Rhapsody Trek (Prague-Budapest) & 3 Day Mini Rhapsody Trek<br />

(Budapest-Split) options available.<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: Hostels (4 nts), boat hotel (2<br />

nts) Transport: Modern air-conditioned coach<br />

Meals: 6 breakfasts Group Leader: Guide &<br />

Driver Group Size: Avg 35 Notes: Includes<br />

orientation walks in Zagreb, Ljubljana, Mikulov,<br />

Bratislava & Prague, free Lonely Planet guide<br />

Tour Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 10 May 16<br />

May 24 May 30<br />

Jun 07 Jun13<br />

Jun 14 Jun 20<br />

Jun 21 Jun 27<br />

Jun 28 Jul 04<br />

Jul 05 Jul 11<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 12 Jul 18<br />

Jul 19 Jul 25<br />

Jul 26 Aug 01<br />

Aug 02 Aug 08<br />

Aug 09 Aug 15<br />

Aug 16 Aug 22<br />

Aug 23 Aug 29<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 30 Sep 05<br />

Sep 06 Sep 12<br />

Sep 13 Sep 19<br />

Sep 20 Sep 26<br />

Sep 27 Oct 03<br />

CZECH REP<br />

1<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

Bled<br />

Prague<br />

Bratislava<br />

2<br />

Ljubljana Zagreb<br />

1<br />

SLOVENIA<br />

CROATIA<br />

Split<br />

2<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: Hostels/hotels (7 nts)<br />

bungalow (1 nt) Transport: Modern air-con<br />

coach Meals: 8 breakfasts, 1 barbecue dinner<br />

Group Leader: Guide & Driver team Group Size:<br />

Avg 35 Notes: Includes city orientation walks,<br />

tour of Auschwitz, entrance to Plitvice National<br />

Park, free Lonely Planet guide Tour Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 02 May 10<br />

May 16 May 24<br />

May 30 Jun 07<br />

Jun 06 Jun 14<br />

Jun 13 Jun 21<br />

Jun 20 Jun 28<br />

Jun 27 Jul 05<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 04 Jul 12<br />

Jul 11 Jul 19<br />

Jul 18 Jul 26<br />

Jul 25 Aug 02<br />

Aug 01 Aug 09<br />

Aug 08 Aug 16<br />

Aug 15 Aug 23<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 22 Aug 30<br />

Aug 29 Sep 06<br />

Sep 05 Sep 13<br />

Sep 12 Sep 20<br />

Sep 19 Sep 27<br />

Prague<br />

CZECH REP<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

1<br />

Krakow<br />

1<br />

Zakopane<br />

Olomouc<br />

Budapest<br />

HUNGARY<br />

Plitvice<br />

1<br />

Split<br />

POLAND<br />

2<br />

1<br />

SLOVAKIA<br />

2<br />

82<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


CROATIA<br />

OTTOMAN<br />

TREK<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR<br />

$1,019 / FR $989<br />

CLASSIC<br />

BALKAN TREK<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR<br />

$1,019 / FR $989<br />

Split Istanbul 8 DAYS Istanbul Split<br />

8 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• See the famous rebuilt 16th Century bridge in Mostar’s old town<br />

• Discover archaeological ruins from the Ottomans in Plovdiv<br />

• Explore the nightlife scenes in three Eastern European capitals<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-04<br />

05<br />

06-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Split / Mostar / Sarajevo<br />

From the historic city of Split, you’ll enjoy the drive along the<br />

dramatic Croatian coast and into Bosnia. Stop in magnificent Mostar,<br />

famous for its quirky old town and 16th Century Ottoman bridge,<br />

beautifully rebuilt since its destruction during the war in 1993.<br />

Continue on to Sarajevo; top nightlife, live bands and great food.<br />

Sarajevo / Belgrade<br />

Today, get to know the Bosnian capital and its incredible history.<br />

Visit the famous Sarajevo Tunnel, which once provided the only<br />

access to the outside world for its beseiged citizens. Relax the<br />

afternoon away shopping in the old town bazaar. On Day 3, head<br />

to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. Explore the city with its grand<br />

Orthodox churches - but the real highlight here is the people. (3B)<br />

Sofia<br />

Head across the border into Bulgaria where you’ll get to inspect<br />

some Ottoman ruins in Nis before arriving into the energetic capital,<br />

Sofia. The inner city is full of monuments, sweeping boulevards and<br />

chic eateries. At night, feast your ears on gypsy music! (B)<br />

Black Sea Resort / Istanbul<br />

Today, journey to the beautiful Bulgarian coast. From watersports<br />

and beaches by day and lively parties by night, this is the place to be!<br />

On Day 7, reach the end of Europe as you travel on to Istanbul and<br />

trace the footsteps of the once-mighty Ottoman Army back to the<br />

very edge of Asia. Enjoy scrumptious Turkish food and check out the<br />

lively nightlife. Sadly, it’s all over after breakfast on Day 8. (3B)<br />

Highlights<br />

• Tuck into delicious local Greek food in Thessaloniki<br />

• Admire Meteora’s stunning cliff top monasteries<br />

• Unwind on the sun-drenched beaches of Albania and Montenegro<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04-05<br />

06<br />

07-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul / Thessaloniki<br />

Set off from Istanbul across the Greek border for a stop in Kavala<br />

to see the impressive ancient Roman aqueduct. Continue to<br />

Thessaloniki, where the nightlife is legendary, the food is some of the<br />

best in Greece and the history is awe-inspiring!<br />

Meteora / Athens<br />

Today, visit the ancient site of Meteora to see the 9th Century<br />

monasteries perched high up on the cliffs. It’s then on to the bustling<br />

Greek captial, Athens. On Day 3, it’s up to you how you spend your<br />

time, but one thing’s for certain, you’ll never be far from ancient<br />

monuments. Tonight, try some of the local specialities. (2B)<br />

Parga / Gjorkastra / Tirana<br />

The next stop is Parga, a party town with great beaches and traces<br />

of Greek mythology. On Day 5, head into Albania, an up-and-coming<br />

hot spot, with beaches and history to back it up. Visit bunkers and<br />

the UNESCO World Heritage town of Gjorkastra, before heading to<br />

the capital city, Tirana (2B)<br />

Budva<br />

Head north into Montenegro, one of the most beautiful corners of<br />

Europe. We stay in the atmospheric town of Budva, set directly on<br />

the Mediterranean and with the best beach culture in the Balkans. (B)<br />

Dubrovnik / Split<br />

Save the best ‘til last - you’re off to Croatia! Take a walk around<br />

Dubrovnik’s historic city walls before heading up the coast to Split for<br />

your final night. Depart after breakfast on Day 8. (2B)<br />

4 Day Mini Balkan Trek (Istanbul-Athens) & 5 Day Balkan Trek<br />

(Athens-Split) options also available.<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: Shared hotels/hostels (7 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern air-con coach Meals: 7<br />

breakfasts Group Leader: Guide & Driver Group<br />

Size: Avg 35 Notes: Includes Sofia, Istanbul<br />

and Nis orientation walks, Mostar local guide,<br />

free Lonely Planet guide Tour Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Sarajevo Belgrade<br />

2<br />

2 Nis<br />

Black<br />

Sea<br />

Mostar<br />

Split Sofia 1<br />

Istanbul<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: Hotels/hostels (7 nts)<br />

Transport: Modern air-conditioned coach<br />

Meals: 7 breakfasts Group Leader: Guide &<br />

Driver Group Size: Avg 35 Notes: Includes<br />

Meteora Monastery entrance, orientation walks<br />

of Thessaloniki, Tirana and Budva, free Lonely<br />

Planet guide Tour Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Split<br />

1<br />

Budva<br />

Gjirokastra<br />

Dubrovnik<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Parga<br />

Tirana<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Istanbul<br />

Kavala<br />

Thessaloniki<br />

Meteora<br />

2<br />

Athens<br />

May 17 May 24<br />

May 31 Jun 07<br />

Jun 14 Jun 21<br />

Jun 28 Jul 04<br />

Jul 12 Jul 19<br />

Jul 26 Aug 02<br />

Aug 09 Aug 16<br />

Aug 23 Aug 30<br />

Sep 06 Sep 13<br />

Sep 20 Sep 27<br />

MEDITERRANEAN SEA<br />

May 24 May 31<br />

Jun 07 Jun 14<br />

Jun 21 Jun 28<br />

Jul 05 Jul 12<br />

Jul 19 Jul 26<br />

Aug 02 Aug 09<br />

Aug 16 Aug 23<br />

Aug 30 Sep 06<br />

Sep 13 Sep 20<br />

Sep 27 Oct 04<br />

MEDITERRANEAN SEA<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

83


CROATIA<br />

ADVENTURE<br />

CON<strong>STA</strong>NTINOPLE<br />

FR<br />

$799 TO HELLAS<br />

FR<br />

$2,184<br />

Zagreb Dubrovnik 7 DAYS Istanbul Athens<br />

12 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Island-hop your way down Croatia’s long and dramatic coastline<br />

• Scramble around medieval fortresses and old Roman ruins<br />

• Sail, snorkel, swim or sunbathe, and then party in exclusive clubs<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02<br />

03-04<br />

05<br />

06-07<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Zagreb<br />

Arrive into Croatia’s attractive capital any time and meet the rest of<br />

your travelling companions this evening.<br />

Zagreb / Plitvice<br />

Enjoy a guided orientation walk of Zagreb and its very charming<br />

old town complete with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings<br />

before your transfer to Plitvice for the night.<br />

Plitvice / Split<br />

Explore an absolutely stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, wander<br />

the wooden paths arching over crystal clear pools at the base of<br />

steep forested mountains and admire the many waterfalls. Catch your<br />

transfer to Split to enjoy an evening walking tour. Here in Croatia’s<br />

second city, enjoy a free day exploring on Day 4. You may choose to<br />

visit the famous Zlatni Rat beach on Bol, make a trip to Trogir or the<br />

ancient ruined city of Solin, or visit the bars and restaurants, and<br />

experience the nightlife once the sun goes down.<br />

Split / Hvar<br />

Hvar’s lush fields are filled with lavender, rosemary and heather,<br />

and it’s the sunniest place in Croatia! By day, you can enjoy hiking,<br />

kayaking, sailing and snorkelling. Late afternoon, as the heat of the<br />

sun fades, stroll the medieval backstreets of Hvar Town and climb the<br />

hill for panoramic views from the 16th century Venetian Fortress. By<br />

night, hit the Carpe Diem night club.<br />

Hvar / Dubrovnik<br />

Arrive to the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik. Rich in history and<br />

filled with stunning architecture, museums and fountains, it is a great<br />

city to explore. Enjoy a final optional night out on the town with a<br />

group before saying your farewells on Day 7.<br />

Highlights<br />

• Visit the WWI battlefields at Gallipoli<br />

• Roam among the ruins of ancient Ephesus<br />

• Party ‘til dawn at a beach party in Mykonos<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-05<br />

06-08<br />

09-12<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul<br />

You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. On Day<br />

2, prepare for a city tour visiting the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sofia,<br />

Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. (B)<br />

Istanbul / Gallipoli / Troy / Ephesus / Kusadasi<br />

Head out of the city to the battlefields of Gallipoli. Visit the Lone<br />

Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove and Johnston’s Jolly.<br />

Day 4, visit Troy, home of the famed Trojan Horse. You’ll then tour<br />

the magnificent acropolis of Pergamum before heading to Kusadasi<br />

for the night. Day 5, visit the ancient city of Ephesus and the site of<br />

the Temple of Artemis. (3B, 3D)<br />

Kusadasi / Samos / Mykonos / Delos / Santorini<br />

Leaving Turkey, take a ferry to Samos. Depending on ferry schedules<br />

you may head straight for Mykonos or spend a day exploring Samos.<br />

Tonight you stay in Mykonos. Relax on the beach or take an optional<br />

day trip to the neighbouring island of Delos. This mecca of ancient<br />

Greece is an island-wide, open-air museum. Revitalise with an<br />

early morning swim and wander the charming white-washed narrow<br />

alleyways of Mykonos Town before ferrying to Santorini. (3B)<br />

Santorini / Athens<br />

Take an optional boat trip in the world’s biggest volcanic crater above<br />

sea level. Swim in the warm thermal water, take a therapeutic mud<br />

bath or sunbathe on the black sand beaches before taking the ferry<br />

to Athens on Day 10. Take a half-day tour to the Acropolis on Day<br />

11, stopping at the stadium where the first Olympic Games of the<br />

modern era were held. Admire the Olympian Zeus, Hadrians Arch, the<br />

Temple of Nike and the most famous of Greek relics, the Parthenon.<br />

On Day 12 it’s time to say goodbye. (4B)<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for<br />

18-39s Accommodation: Hotels/hostels (6<br />

nts, multishare) Transport: Train, bus Meals:<br />

None included Budget: Allow EUR 220-300<br />

for meals not included Group Leader: Chief<br />

Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 16,<br />

Avg 10 Tour Code: GAECZD<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 29 Jul 05<br />

Jul 06 Jul 12<br />

Jul 13 Jul 19<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 20 Jul 26<br />

Jul 27 Aug 02<br />

Aug 03 Aug 09<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 10 Aug 16<br />

Aug 17 Aug 23<br />

Aug 24 Aug 30<br />

Zagreb<br />

1<br />

Hvar<br />

1<br />

CROATIA<br />

Plitvice<br />

BOSNIA AND<br />

HERZEGOVINA<br />

1<br />

2<br />

Split<br />

Dubrovnik<br />

AEGEAN<br />

SEA<br />

1<br />

Inclusions<br />

Accommodation: 4 and 5* Hotels (11 nts)<br />

Transport: Fully air-conditioned coach, airport<br />

transfers Meals: 11 breakfasts, 3 dinners<br />

Group Leader: Professional English-speaking<br />

tour guide for the duration of the tour Group<br />

Size: Max 20 Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>ISTCHT<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 14 Jun 25<br />

Jun 28 Jul 09<br />

Jul 12 Jul 23<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 26 Aug 06<br />

Aug 09 Aug 20<br />

Aug 23 Sep 03<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 06 Sep 17<br />

Sep 20 Oct 01<br />

GREECE<br />

2<br />

Gallipoli<br />

Troy<br />

AEGEAN SEA<br />

1<br />

MARMARA SEA<br />

BLACK SEA<br />

Istanbul<br />

Canakkale<br />

TURKEY<br />

Pergamum<br />

Samos<br />

Athens<br />

Ephesus<br />

2<br />

Kusadasi<br />

2<br />

Delos Mykonos<br />

Ios<br />

2 Santorini<br />

2<br />

MEDITERRANEAN SEA<br />

84<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


MAGIC<br />

CARPET<br />

TURKISH<br />

FR<br />

$1,138 DELIGHT<br />

FR<br />

$1,092<br />

Istanbul Istanbul 10 DAYS Istanbul Istanbul<br />

14 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Explore Istanbul’s ancient monuments<br />

• Visit the Gallipoli battlefields<br />

• Tour the ancient ruins of Troy<br />

DAY<br />

01-03<br />

04-05<br />

06-07<br />

08-10<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul / Gallipoli / Canakkale<br />

You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The<br />

remainder of the day is yours to explore Istanbul. Day 2, enjoy a<br />

fully guided city tour, visiting the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Topkapi<br />

Palace and the Hippodrome. Day 3, visit the WWI battlefields of<br />

Gallipoli, including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove<br />

and Johnston’s Jolly. Stay overnight in Canakkale. (2B, D)<br />

Canakkale / Troy / Kusadasi / Ephesus<br />

Take a trip to Troy, home of the famed Trojan Horse and battlefield<br />

of Hercules, followed by a tour of the Acropolis of Pergamum, before<br />

heading on to Kusadasi. Day 5, enjoy a guided tour of the ancient<br />

city of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis<br />

before continuing to the house of the Virgin Mary. Overnight in<br />

Kusadasi. (2B, 2D)<br />

Kusadasi / Hierapolis / Pamukkale / Konya / Cappadocia<br />

Head to Pamukkale, where you’ll overnight. Explore the ancient city<br />

of Hierapolis and take a dip in the hot springs that were considered,<br />

in Roman times, to have theraputic powers. Day 7, travel the ancient<br />

Silk Road visiting Sultanhani Caravansaray and the Mevlana Museum<br />

in Konya. (2B, 2D)<br />

Cappadocia / Goreme / Ankara / Istanbul<br />

Marvel at the lunar landscapes of the Goreme Valley Open Air<br />

Museum and explore the many levels of an underground city. Day 9,<br />

depart to the nation’s capital, Ankara, where you’ll visit Anitkabir,<br />

mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Later, head back<br />

to Istanbul, where you’ll overnight. Day 10, after breakfast, you’ll be<br />

transferred to the airport where your tour ends. (3B, D)<br />

Highlights<br />

• Cruise the Aegean Coast to the ruins of Troy<br />

• Trek up Saklikent Gorge taking in Fethiye en route<br />

• Swim in the clear waters of the Turquoise Coast<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04-06<br />

07<br />

08-14<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul / Gallipoli / Canakkali<br />

Depart Istanbul to visit the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, including<br />

Lone Pine, ANZAC Cove and Johnston’s Jolly. Stay in Canakkale.<br />

Canakkale / Troy / Pergamum / Kusadasi<br />

Today, travel along the Aegean Coast stopping at the city of Troy for<br />

a one-hour tour. On the way to Kusadasi, visit the site of Pergamum.<br />

On Day 3, visit the Temple of Artemis on a tour and Ephesus. (2B)<br />

Kusadasi / Pamukkale / Bodrum / Koycegiz / Fethiye<br />

Leaving Kusadasi, drive through Pamukkale where you can paddle<br />

in the natural calcium formations and visit the ancient spa town of<br />

Hierapolis before heading to Bodrum. On Day 5, head to Koycegiz<br />

for an optional late-night boat cruise on Lake Koycegiz. The next<br />

morning trek up Saklikent Gorge to Fethiye. (3B)<br />

Fethiye<br />

Spend a relaxing day in Fethiye. If you choose the gulet option which<br />

goes between May and September, you will board your traditional<br />

handmade gulet. Cruise your way along the Mediterranean coastline<br />

stopping enroute for sunbathing and swimming before reaching<br />

Olympos on Day10. (B on Day 7 and all meals included on the gulet)<br />

Fethiye / Kas / Olympos / Konya / Cappadocia / Istanbul<br />

On the way to Olympos, stop at Kas, a traditional small Turkish<br />

fishing village. Days 9-10 you’ll spend in Olympos, famous for<br />

its tree houses. Try rockclimbing, caving or just chill out. Gulet<br />

passengers rejoin the tour here. On Day 11, follow the ancient silk<br />

trade route across the Anatolian Plain to Konya and Cappadocia. Day<br />

12 and 13 explore the carved cave villages and underground cities of<br />

the region. Early in the morning head back to Istanbul, via Ankara to<br />

vist the mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. (7B, 2D)<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Accommodation: 4* and 5* hotels (9 nts)<br />

Transport: Air-conditioned coach, airport<br />

transfers Meals: 9 breakfasts, 6 dinners Group<br />

Leader: Professional English-speaking tour<br />

guide for the duration of the tour Group Size:<br />

Max 20 Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>ISTMCT<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jan 18 Jan 27<br />

Feb 15 Feb 24<br />

Mar 08 Mar 17<br />

Mar 22 Mar 31<br />

Apr 12 Apr 21<br />

Apr 19 Apr 28<br />

May 10 May 19<br />

May 17 May 26<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 24 Jun 02<br />

Jun 07 Jun 16<br />

Jun 14 Jun 23<br />

Jun 28 Jul 07<br />

Jul 12 Jul 21<br />

Jul 19 Jul 28<br />

Jul 26 Aug 04<br />

Aug 09 Aug 18<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 16 Aug 25<br />

Aug 30 Sep 08<br />

Sep 13 Sep 22<br />

Sep 20 Sep 29<br />

Oct 04 Oct 13<br />

Oct 18 Oct 27<br />

Nov 15 Nov 24<br />

Dec 13 Dec 22<br />

Gallipoli<br />

Canakkale<br />

Troy<br />

1<br />

2<br />

Kusadasi<br />

AEGEAN SEA<br />

MARMARA<br />

SEA<br />

3<br />

Pergamum<br />

Ephesus<br />

BLACK<br />

SEA<br />

Istanbul<br />

Ankara<br />

Cappadocia<br />

1<br />

Konya<br />

Pamukkale<br />

MEDITERRANEAN SEA<br />

2<br />

Inclusions<br />

Accommodation: Hotel (8 nts), budget shared<br />

hotel/guesthouse (3 nts), tree house (2 nts).<br />

Gulet option replace - the hostel/guesthouse<br />

with 3 nts Gulet cabin share Transport: Fully<br />

air-conditioned coach Meals:13 breakfasts, 2<br />

dinners. Gulet option: 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches<br />

and 4 dinners Group Leader: Professional<br />

English-speaking tour guide Group Size: Max<br />

20 Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>ISTSHO/<strong>STA</strong>ISTTDG<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 04 May 17<br />

May 18 May 31<br />

Jun 01 Jun 14<br />

Jun 15 Jun 28<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 29 Jul 12<br />

Jul 13 Jul 26<br />

Jul 27 Aug 09<br />

Aug 10 Aug 23<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 24 Sep 06<br />

Sep 07 Sep 20<br />

Sep 21 Oct 04<br />

1<br />

Istanbul<br />

Gallipoli<br />

Canakkale<br />

Troy Pergamum Cappadocia 2<br />

Ephesus 1<br />

Pamukkale Konya<br />

2<br />

Kusadasi Fethiye<br />

2 1 2<br />

Bodrum<br />

Kas<br />

Koycegiz<br />

BLACK<br />

SEA<br />

2<br />

Olympos<br />

Gulet Option<br />

MEDITERRANEAN SEA<br />

TURKEY<br />

Ankara<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

85


BLACK<br />

ABSOLUTE TURKEY<br />

Istanbul Istanbul<br />

FR<br />

$1,799<br />

15 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

1<br />

Highlights<br />

• Wander Istanbul’s spice market<br />

• Create your own pottery masterpiece<br />

• Explore Cappadocia’s hidden caves<br />

• Stay in a traditional Turkish village<br />

• Sleep under the stars on board a boat<br />

• See the famous cliffs in Pamukkale<br />

• Visit ancient Troy and Gallipoli<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Mar 30 Apr 13<br />

Apr 06 Apr 20<br />

Apr 13 Apr 27<br />

Apr 20 May 04<br />

Apr 27 May 11<br />

May 04 May 18<br />

May 07 May 21<br />

May 11 May 25<br />

May 14 May 28<br />

May 18 Jun 01<br />

May 25 Jun 08<br />

May 28 Jun 11<br />

Jun 01 Jun 15<br />

Jun 08 Jun 22<br />

Inclusions<br />

1<br />

Çanakkale<br />

(Troy)<br />

Ayvalik<br />

Pamukkale<br />

1<br />

Selçuk<br />

1<br />

Istanbul<br />

2<br />

TURKEY<br />

Kas<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Antalya<br />

1<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jun 11 Jun 25<br />

Jun 25 Jul 09<br />

Jun 29 Jul 13<br />

Jul 06 Jul 20<br />

Jul 13 Jul 27<br />

Jul 16 Jul 30<br />

Jul 20 Aug 03<br />

Jul 27 Aug 10<br />

Aug 03 Aug 17<br />

Aug 10 Aug 24<br />

Aug 17 Aug 31<br />

Aug 24 Sep 07<br />

Aug 31 Sep 14<br />

Sep 03 Sep 17<br />

1<br />

1<br />

SEA<br />

Cayagzi<br />

Ankara<br />

1<br />

Konya<br />

Homestay<br />

1<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 07 Sep 21<br />

Sep 10 Sep 24<br />

Sep 14 Sep 28<br />

Sep 17 Oct 01<br />

Sep 21 Oct 05<br />

Sep 24 Oct 08<br />

Sep 28 Oct 12<br />

Oct 05 Oct 19<br />

Oct 12 Oct 26<br />

Oct 19 Nov 02<br />

Oct 26 Nov 09<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (12 nts), simple<br />

homestay (1 nt), boat (1 nt, multishare) (this<br />

night will be spent in a hotel in inclement<br />

weather) Transport: Private van, boat Meals:<br />

14 breakfasts, 3 dinners Budget: Allow<br />

USD 285-375 for meals not included Group<br />

Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group<br />

Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAETAT<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $499<br />

You might like<br />

Göreme<br />

(Cappadocia)<br />

Stay longer in Istanbul<br />

See pages 160-161<br />

Budapest to Istanbul<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> through Hungary, Romania and<br />

Bulgaria to arrive in Istanbul<br />

(14 days, GAEABI) Fr $1,799<br />

3<br />

Get ready, we’re here to shake things up and give you a taste of the real, exciting, Turkey!<br />

Full of ancient monuments, a fascinating history and timeless, out-of-the-way villages that<br />

really pack a cultural punch, this tour allows you the freedom to explore all the highlights.<br />

Begin your trip roaming the palaces and mosques of Istanbul before journeying into the<br />

bizarre as you explore otherworldly Cappadocia. From the amazing white cliff waterfalls<br />

at Pamukkale to the battlefields of Gallipoli, you’ll see the country’s hidden gems as you<br />

explore the crossroads of Asia and Europe.<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-05<br />

06-07<br />

08<br />

09-11<br />

12-13<br />

14-15<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul / Ankara<br />

Arrive in Istanbul and meet up with the rest of the group. Begin Day 2 with an orientation walking<br />

tour of the city, passing Hagia Sofia and Topkapi Palace and wandering through the Spice Bazaar.<br />

There may be a little free time to explore, prior to today’s transfer to Ankara, Turkey’s capital. (B)<br />

Ankara / Cappadocia<br />

From Ankara, you’ll be whisked away to the town of Göreme, your base for exploring the otherworldly<br />

landscapes of Cappadocia. Enjoy lots of optional activities over the next two days; hire a bike to<br />

explore these fairytale surroundings, hike in the Rose Valley or visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum.<br />

On one of the evenings, have dinner with a local family. (3B, D)<br />

Cappadocia / Konya / Village Stay / Antalya<br />

An early start as you head to one of the many underground cities in the region, most famously used<br />

as hiding places for Christians being persecuted by the Romans. Then, head to the Ihlara Valley<br />

whose cliff-like walls are 100-150m high. After lunch, travel to Konya and admire its beautiful,<br />

turquoise-domed shrine before continuing to a local village where you’ll learn about traditional<br />

life and enjoy a home-cooked meal. On Day 7, you’re off to the Mediterranean coast and the city<br />

of Antalya. Arriving around lunchtime, spend your afternoon wandering the charming cobbled<br />

hillside streets of the district of Kaleiçi. This is a great place to stop and have a drink at one of the<br />

restaurants with great views of the marina below. (2B, D)<br />

Antalya / Cayagzi / Boat Cruise<br />

Today, enjoy a free morning in Antalya then continue to the beautiful coastal village of Cayagzi<br />

where, after lunch, you’ll board the boat for an unforgettable night on the sea (weather permitting).<br />

Sleep on deck under the stars and enjoy dinner with the group. This really is the perfect opportunity<br />

to relax and enjoy the warm crystal waters that Turkey is famous for! (B, D)<br />

Kas / Pamukkale / Selçuk<br />

Enjoy a morning sailing on board soaking up the sunshine and scenery and admiring the passing<br />

views. After lunch, you’ll dock and make your way to the coastal town of Kas. You’ll be charmed<br />

by the cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings as you wander among its many antiques stores.<br />

On Day 10, leaving the sea behind, pass through almond orchards as you travel to Pamukkale<br />

where you’ll visit the famous white cliffs. You’ll also have the chance to explore the ancient site of<br />

Hierapolis built on top of the white ‘castle’. On Day 11, travel to the town of Selçuk where you’ll visit<br />

the spectacular ruins of the ancient Roman town of Ephesus. (3B)<br />

Ayvalik / Troy / Çanakkale<br />

You’ll be charmed by Ayvalik’s blend of old Ottoman architecture and attractive harbour, and if you<br />

are itching to get back into the turquoise Mediterranean, the beach of Sarimsakli is only a short bus<br />

ride away. On Day 13, pay a visit to Troy, made famous by the Iliad, Homer’s epic poem, and more<br />

recently by Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt! This evening you’ll enjoy the delights of the harbour town of<br />

Çanakkale, a busy port with a thriving student population. (2B)<br />

Gallipoli / Istanbul<br />

This morning, make an early visit to Gallipoli, where thousands of ANZAC troops gave their lives<br />

during WWI, to see the war cemeteries and famous ‘Lone Pine’. Continue back to Istanbul, where you<br />

can finish your sightseeing or get in some last-minute shopping in the aromatic spice bazaars and<br />

sparkling jewellery stores. The tour sadly ends after breakfast on Day 15. (2B)<br />

86<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


THE BEST OF<br />

TURKEY<br />

TURKEY<br />

FR<br />

$1,249 ON A BUDGET<br />

FR<br />

$1,249<br />

Istanbul Istanbul 8 DAYS Istanbul Istanbul<br />

15 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Eat handmade Turkish delights in the bazaars of Istanbul<br />

• Visit the dramatic and moving WWI battlefields at Gallipoli<br />

• Sip Turkish coffee at a seaside cafe in Ayvalik<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03<br />

04-05<br />

06-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul / Gallipoli / Çanakkale<br />

Arrive in Istanbul and meet up with your group this evening. On Day<br />

2, it’s an early start as you travel to the important WWI battlefield<br />

site of Gallipoli for a guided visit to ANZAC Cove and the war<br />

cemeteries. Later, make your way to the town of Çanakkale - a great<br />

place to watch the locals promenade by the harbour. (B)<br />

Troy / Ayvalik<br />

Visit the ruins of ancient Troy and marvel at the story behind this<br />

great site. You won’t want to miss your chance to have your photo<br />

taken with the Trojan Horse! You’ll be charmed by Ayvalik’s blend of<br />

old Ottoman architecture, cobbled streets and attractive harbour;<br />

this afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise of the beautiful area before<br />

spending the night in a converted Ottoman-style mansion. (B)<br />

Ayvalik / Ephesus / Selçuk<br />

Enjoy a free morning exploring Ayvalik at leisure, and in the<br />

afternoon, travel to Selçuk, your base for exploring the ruins of the<br />

ancient Roman town of Ephesus. <strong>Travel</strong> to the picturesque village of<br />

Sirence where you can sample some of the local wine, shop for crafts<br />

and perhaps sample some tasty Turkish specialities for lunch. (2B)<br />

Selçuk / Pamukkale / Istanbul<br />

This morning, journey to the famous white cliffs of Pamukkale before<br />

exploring the ancient site of Hierapolis, built originally by the Romans<br />

as an elegant spa resort. After a short flight to Istanbul on Day 7,<br />

head to your hotel to check in. Afterwards, enjoy a walking tour<br />

to discover more of this fascinating city taking in the Hippodrome<br />

and Blue Mosque. A great way to end the day is with a traditional<br />

hammam (Turkish bath). After breakfast on Day 8, it’s time to say<br />

goodbye to your new friends. (3B)<br />

Highlights<br />

• Admire Istanbul’s Hagia Sofia Church & Blue Mosque<br />

• Delve into an underground world in Cappadocia<br />

• Enjoy an overnight Aegean boat cruise and sleep under the stars<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-05<br />

06-07<br />

08-09<br />

10-12<br />

13-15<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul<br />

Arrive at any time and meet the rest of your group this evening.<br />

Enjoy an orientation walk, and free time to discover the thousands of<br />

years of history represented within Istanbul’s mosques, palaces and<br />

covered bazaars. <strong>Travel</strong> by overnight bus to Cappadocia. (B)<br />

Cappadocia<br />

A landscape like no other on the planet. Explore the rock chimneys<br />

and underground cities, sample a home-cooked dinner with a local<br />

family, and perhaps even consider an optional hot-air balloon ride.<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> overnight on Day 5 to Antalya. (2B, D)<br />

Çirali / Kekova<br />

Board your boat today for a relaxing mini-cruise, weather permitting,<br />

on the Aegean Sea. See the flames of Olympos Mountain by night and<br />

enjoy a freshly-cooked dinner before sleeping under the stars. (B, D)<br />

Dalyan<br />

Back on land at Uçagiz, travel on to charming resort of Dalyan. Take<br />

a trip to the famous mud baths, or swim and chill out at the beach,<br />

which is also a nesting site for turtles. (2B)<br />

Pamukkale / Ephesus / Selçuk<br />

Explore the whitewashed calcium terraces of Pamukkale, the ancient<br />

city of Hierapolis, and the well-preserved Roman ruins of Ephesus<br />

including the magnificent façade of the Library of Celsus. (3B)<br />

Troy / Çanakkale / Istanbul<br />

From the harbour town of Çanakkale, there are optional visits to the<br />

ruined city of Troy and Gallipoli to learn about this important WWI<br />

battle site. On Day 14, return to the big city for one last night out<br />

with the group, before departing at any time on Day 15. (3B)<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (7 nts) Transport:<br />

Private air-conditioned van, plane Meals:<br />

7 breakfasts Budget: Allow USD 190-250<br />

for meals not included Group Leader: Chief<br />

Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 15,<br />

Avg 10 Tour Code: GAETBT<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $<strong>349</strong><br />

Departures 2014<br />

Mar - Oct<br />

Selected Saturdays, typically 2-3<br />

departures per month<br />

1<br />

Gallipoli<br />

Canakkale (Troy)<br />

1<br />

Ayvalik<br />

2<br />

Selçuk<br />

SEA OF<br />

MARMARA<br />

TURKEY<br />

Istanbul<br />

1<br />

2<br />

BLACK<br />

SEA<br />

Pamukkale<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical<br />

Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for 18-<br />

39s Accommodation: Hotel (11 nts), bus (2<br />

nts), boat (1 nt, weather permitting) Transport:<br />

Bus, van, boat Meals: 12 breakfasts, 2 dinners<br />

Budget: Allow USD 285-375 for meals not<br />

included Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour<br />

Code: GAETTO<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $319<br />

Departures 2014<br />

Apr - Oct<br />

Selected Fridays, typically 1-3 departures<br />

per month<br />

1<br />

Istanbul<br />

2<br />

TURKEY<br />

Gallipoli<br />

Çanakkale<br />

Göreme<br />

(Troy) (Cappadocia)<br />

2 1 Pamukkale<br />

Selçuk<br />

2 Çirali 1 Antalya<br />

Dalyan<br />

Kekova<br />

1<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

BLACK<br />

SEA<br />

2<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

87


AEGEAN<br />

DELIGHT<br />

FR<br />

$935<br />

TURKEY<br />

AEGEAN ADVENTURE<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR<br />

$759 / FR $739<br />

Istanbul Istanbul 8 DAYS Istanbul Fethiye<br />

6 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Absorb amazing Istanbul from two continents<br />

• Tour the ancient ruins of Troy and see the Trojan Horse<br />

• Visit the site of the mystical Temple of Artemis<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul<br />

You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend<br />

the day exploring the city at your leisure. On Day 2, a fantastic city<br />

tour will cover off the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, the<br />

Basilica’s underground cistern and the Hippodrome. (B)<br />

Istanbul / Gallipoli / Troy / Kusadasi<br />

Head out of Istanbul to the battlefields of Gallipoli. Visit Lone Pine<br />

and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove and the Gallipoli Museum.<br />

Tonight you’ll stay in Canakkale. Day 4, visit Troy, home of the famed<br />

Trojan Horse and ancient battlefield of Hercules. You’ll then tour the<br />

magnificent Acropolis of Pergamum before heading to Kusadasi for<br />

an evening by the sea. (2B, 2D)<br />

Kusadasi / Ephesus / Pamukkale<br />

Enjoy a history-steeped guided tour of the ancient city of Ephesus<br />

which has the largest collection of Roman ruins in the eastern<br />

Mediterranean. Visit the site of the Temple of Artemis (one of<br />

the seven wonders of the ancient world) and a carpet village. End<br />

your day in Kusadasi. Day 6, head towards the magnificent white<br />

calcium terraces of Pamukkale and then it’s off to the ancient city<br />

of Hierapolis. Take a dip in the hot springs that were used in Roman<br />

times for their therapeutic powers. You’ll sleep in Pamukkale tonight.<br />

(2B, 2D)<br />

Pamukkale / Istanbul<br />

Head back to Istanbul, passing through rural Turkey and ancient<br />

Bursa to visit the famous Green Mosque and explore the Silk Bazaar.<br />

On Day 8, tuck into a final breakfast with your travel buddies and say<br />

your goodbyes. (2B)<br />

Highlights<br />

• Explore the ancient ruins of Troy and the Acropolis of Pergamum<br />

• Stay in a treehouse in Saklikent Gorge<br />

• Explore the unique calcium limestone terraces of Pamukkale<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-03<br />

04<br />

05-06<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Istanbul / Gallipoli<br />

It’s an early start this morning as you head out of Istanbul and on<br />

to Gallipoli to visit the peninsula, famous for the brave ANZACs<br />

who fought their way into history back in 1915. After the moving<br />

experience, enjoy a barbecue dinner with your fellow explorers. (B)<br />

Ephesus<br />

Today is filled with historic marvels, as you travel to legendary Troy,<br />

where Achilles battled the Trojans in Homer’s Illiad, then Pergamum<br />

and its staggering remains, and finally reaching your overnight oasis<br />

at the ancient Ephesus. On Day 3, all the time is yours to explore<br />

Ephesus or just hang around the oasis pool. If you choose to attack<br />

historic sights, don’t miss a remarkable 25,000 seater colisseum or<br />

the incredible Curetes Way. In the evening, enjoy great Turkish food<br />

and wine well into the balmy night. (2B)<br />

Pamukkale / Saklikent Gorge<br />

Leave Ephesus behind and head inland to Pamukkale, famous for<br />

its stunning limestone baths, healing waters and glowing white<br />

travertines that wind down the hill. Move on to the impressive<br />

Saklikent Gorge, its waters icy cool even in the height of summer,<br />

before reaching your treehouse escape for the night. (B)<br />

Saklikent Gorge / Fethiye<br />

Rise to a burst of nature atop the tree line in your own treehouse.<br />

Spend an unforgettable day in this delicious refuge rafting down<br />

the crystal clear waters before immersing yourself in a mudbath.<br />

Wallow in the cool natural environment of the gorge, hike and enjoy<br />

a beautiful lunch before heading to the Mediterranean coast and<br />

reaching Fethiye. Sadly, your wonderful trip ends on Day 6 after<br />

breakfast. But not to worry, just board an authentic Turkish gulet and<br />

continue your adventure on a Sail Turkey trip (see page 110). (2B)<br />

Inclusions<br />

Accommodation: 4 and 5* Hotels (7 nts)<br />

Transport: Fully air-conditioned coach, airport<br />

transfers Meals: 7 breakfasts, 4 dinners Group<br />

Leader: Professional English-speaking tour<br />

guide for the duration of the tour Group Size:<br />

Max 20 Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>I<strong>STA</strong>DT<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jan 25 Feb 01<br />

Feb 15 Feb 22<br />

Mar 08 Mar 15<br />

Apr 12 Apr 19<br />

Apr 26 May 05<br />

May 10 May 17<br />

May 17 May 24<br />

May 31 Jun 07<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 07 Jun 14<br />

Jun 14 Jun 21<br />

Jun 21 Jun 28<br />

Jul 05 Jul 12<br />

Jul 19 Jul 26<br />

Jul 26 Aug 02<br />

Aug 09 Aug 16<br />

Aug 16 Aug 23<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 23 Aug 30<br />

Sep 06 Sep 13<br />

Sep 13 Sep 20<br />

Sep 20 Sep 27<br />

Oct 04 Oct 11<br />

Oct18 Oct 25<br />

Nov 08 Nov 15<br />

Dec 13 Dec 20<br />

AEGEAN<br />

SEA<br />

Canakkale<br />

Troy<br />

TURKEY<br />

1<br />

Kusadasi<br />

MEDITERRANEAN<br />

SEA<br />

MARMARA<br />

SEA<br />

Pergamum<br />

BLLACK<br />

SEA<br />

Istanbul<br />

EphesusPamukkale<br />

2<br />

3<br />

1<br />

Inclusions<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: hostels/motels (4 nts), tree<br />

house (1 nt) Transport: Modern air-con coach<br />

Meals: 6 breakfasts Group Leader: Guide &<br />

Driver team Group Size: Avg 35 Notes: Gallipoli<br />

tour, Troy and Pergamum entrance fees Tour<br />

Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 12 May 17<br />

May 26 May 31<br />

Jun 09 Jun 14<br />

Jun 23 Jun 28<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 07 Jul 12<br />

Jul 21 Jul 26<br />

Aug 04 Aug 09<br />

Aug 18 Aug 23<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 01 Sep 06<br />

Sep 15 Sep 20<br />

Sep 29 Oct 04<br />

Oct 13 Oct 18<br />

1<br />

Gallipoli<br />

BLACK SEA<br />

Istanbul<br />

Troy<br />

TURKEY<br />

Bergama<br />

Pamukkale<br />

2<br />

Ephesus<br />

AEGEAN SEA<br />

1<br />

Fethiye<br />

1<br />

Saklikent<br />

Gorge<br />

88<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


REALM OF THE POLAR BEAR<br />

Longyearbyen Longyearbyen<br />

FR<br />

$3,599<br />

8 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Set off on an adventure of a lifetime<br />

• Search for polar bears and whales<br />

• Take a plunge in the Arctic<br />

• Look out for walrus on the ice floes<br />

• Discover stunning ice-covered fjords<br />

• Glimpse herds of Svalbard’s reindeer<br />

• Enjoy the silence of the Arctic tundra<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jun 12 Jun 19<br />

Jun 19 Jun 26<br />

Inclusions<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jul 06 Jul 13<br />

Jul 13 Jul 20<br />

Svalbard Archipelago<br />

/ Spitsbergen<br />

Longyearbyen<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jul 30 Aug 06<br />

Trip Style: Marine Service Level: Upgraded<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Twin, triple and quad share<br />

cabins or suites, all with en suite bathrooms<br />

and porthole or window (7 nts) Transport:<br />

MS Expedition, Zodiac, local bus Facilities:<br />

Dining room, lounge, library, Polar Bear Pub,<br />

outdoor observation deck, gift shop, computer<br />

room, fitness room, sauna, medical clinic<br />

Meals: Daily breakfast and lunch (buffetstyle),<br />

gourmet dinners (table service with one<br />

sitting), occasional polar barbecues (weather<br />

permitting) Note: Drinks and tips not included<br />

Group Leader: Full crew of up to 55 on board<br />

with a 10:1 guest/staff ratio. Group Size: Max<br />

134 passengers Tour Code: GAXVRPNX<br />

Ice and weather<br />

conditions permitting<br />

From close-up encounters with mighty glaciers, to polar bears and other plentiful wildlife, a<br />

voyage aboard the MS Expedition is a voyage of non-stop highlights. When summer arrives<br />

in Spitsbergen, the region springs to life with a magnificent bounty of flora and fauna,<br />

and awe-inspiring natural wonder. You’ll explore not only by boat, but also by Zodiac and<br />

on foot, keeping a look out for roaming wildlife, lounging seals, grazing reindeer and bird<br />

colonies, all of whom co-exist in this harsh land we dare only to explore for a few months of<br />

the year. This is the Arctic – this is an adventure.<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-07<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Longyearbyen<br />

Get your first glimpses of the midnight sun in Spitsbergen’s capital, Longyearbyen, where there are<br />

as many snowmobiles as people! The community offers a wide range of activities and facilities, so<br />

there is plenty to keep you occupied before boarding time. You’ll embark on the MS Expedition in the<br />

afternoon, she is uniquely equipped to meet the demands of sailing in polar environments. Set sail<br />

this evening. (D)<br />

Svalbard Archipelago / Spitsbergen<br />

Each day of the cruise is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances<br />

are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ‘open ocean’ crossings, the seas are<br />

normally calm. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and<br />

historic extravaganzas and you‘ll spend the next six days exploring this remote polar region. Visit<br />

ice-covered seas and fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and witness glaciers crashing into<br />

the sea around you. Spend time steaming through the ice in search of polar bears busy hunting seals,<br />

and keep a constant lookout for walruses hauled out on ice floes or on sandy beaches. At one or<br />

more of the stops, you can hope to see one of Svalbard’s unique species of reindeer, they are much<br />

smaller than their southern relatives, but still carry impressive antlers. There is also the possibility to<br />

see Arctic foxes. You’ll visit - ice permitting - spectacular bird cliffs filled with thousands of murres<br />

(guillemots) as well as kittiwakes and glaucous gulls. There may be the opportunity to walk on shore,<br />

observe and photograph the Arctic flora and fauna and cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing<br />

seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird<br />

cliffs. This is also a land of history: from whaling to reaching for the North Pole, from trapping to<br />

coal mining and war, and you’ll get the opportunity to visit some of these historic sites. (6B, 6L, 6D)<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

7<br />

You might like<br />

Norwegian Fjords<br />

Edinburgh to Longyearbyen<br />

(15 Days) (GAXVNFNX) Fr $4,949<br />

Realm Of The Polar Bear in Depth<br />

Longyearbyen to Longyearbyen<br />

(11 Days) (GAXVRDNX) Fr $5,199<br />

Arctic Highlights<br />

Longyearbyen to Reykjavik<br />

(14 Days) (GAXVAHNX) Fr $4,949<br />

08<br />

The final itinerary is dependent on ice and weather conditions, which have to be assessed by the<br />

captain during the voyage, and it may not be possible to visit all the sites mentioned above. In<br />

particular, it is not always possible to sail the eastern coast of Spitsbergen. By not having a set<br />

itinerary, however, you take on the expedition spirit and are free to capitalise on the best that<br />

Svalbard has to offer.<br />

Longyearbyen<br />

Arrive back in Longyearbyen in the morning for disembarkation. Wave goodbye to your new friends<br />

and take home the incredible memories and photos of this once-in-a-lifetime voyage. (B)<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

89


TREKKING<br />

IN ICELAND<br />

LAPLAND ACTIVE<br />

FR<br />

$3,299 ADVENTURE<br />

FR<br />

$2,699<br />

Reykjavik Reykjavik 10 DAYS Kiruna Kiruna<br />

6 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Highlights<br />

• Visit the world’s most northerly capital, laid-back Reykjavik<br />

• Witness the spectacular eruption of boiling waters at Geysir<br />

• Hike across the icy surface of the Solheimajökull Glacier<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02<br />

03-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-10<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Reykjavik<br />

Arrive into Iceland’s capital, and if time permits head out to explore<br />

its quirky charms. This evening, meet your new travel mates.<br />

Golden Circle<br />

Today get a first taste of the natural splendour that lies ahead. At<br />

Pingvellir, walk in the rift valley that marks the meeting point, or<br />

rather the ‘tearing apart’ point, of the North American and Eurasian<br />

tectonic plates. Witness boiling waters exploding at Geysir, and<br />

marvel at the twin waterfalls at Gullfoss. (B, D)<br />

Landmannalaugar<br />

Reachable only by 4WD vehicle, and in the shadow of Iceland’s<br />

most feared volcano, Hekla, today’s hike is through the astonishing<br />

Landmannalaugar, most famous for its natural hot springs. Spend<br />

Days 4 to 6 on the Laugavegur Trail. Covering an average of 15kms<br />

per day between remote campsites at Lake Alftavatn and Emstrur,<br />

you’ll cross volcanic plateaux in search of waterfalls and glaciers.<br />

Bring waterproof clothes and a sense of adventure. (4B, 4L, 4D)<br />

Thorsmork / Skogar<br />

The highland valley of Thorsmork is the start point for today’s 20km<br />

hike through ‘Volcano Alley’ to the foot of the iconic, 60-metre<br />

Skogar waterfall. Hike between the ice-covered volcanoes of<br />

Myrdalsjökull and Eyjafallajökull, which disrupted worldwide air traffic<br />

during its 2010 eruption. From Skogar, enjoy a day of ice hiking on<br />

the Solheimajökull Glacier. (2B, 2L, D)<br />

Skogar / Reykjavik<br />

Take a well-deserved soak in the natural springs of the Hellisheidi<br />

mountain range, and hike into the beautiful valley of Reykjadalur as<br />

you return to Reykjavik, where the tour ends on Day 10. (2B, L)<br />

Highlights<br />

• Dog-sledding through icy wilderness with a pack of huskies<br />

• Seeing the Northern Lights in all their multi-coloured glory<br />

• Bedding down for the night in the renowned ICEHOTEL®<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02-04<br />

05<br />

06<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Kiruna<br />

Arrive in Kiruna Airport at any time where your transfer to your<br />

hotel awaits. There is no time to waste as you head out into the<br />

icy wilderness and on to Vittangi Moose Park to get up close and<br />

personal with some of these noble creatures in their natural habitat.<br />

Lapland Wilderness<br />

Today make friends with your team of dogs, your personal transport<br />

for the next few days. Slide across the Swedish wilderness in<br />

complete silence, listening to the panting of the dogs and the<br />

whoosh of your sled over the snow. Stop to try a local skill, ice<br />

fishing, relax in the cabin for lunch or try out the sauna. In the<br />

evening of Day 3, experience even more Arctic goodness, as you<br />

spend the night in a teepee out in the snow. On Day 4, choose to try<br />

snowshoeing, developed as the easiest way to get across the snow<br />

thousands of years ago. After dinner, go off in search of the famous<br />

Northern Lights while being pulled along on your sled. (3B, 3L, 3D)<br />

ICEHOTEL®<br />

This morning bid farewell to your new canine friends and return back<br />

to civilisation. Stop at the Sami village to learn about the indigenous<br />

people who live in this region, their rich culture and long-established<br />

traditions. You will take a short reindeer safari through the snow<br />

before continuing to the world-famous Icehotel for a free afternoon.<br />

Choose to head out on a snowmobiling tour, or just stroll around the<br />

remarkable ice structure and enjoy a visit to the Icebar. (B, L)<br />

Kiruna<br />

Return to Kiruna and enjoy a free morning for optional activities.<br />

Depart at any time on your included airport transfer. (B)<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Active Service Level: Camping<br />

Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hostels (3 nts, multishare),<br />

camping (6 nts) Transport: Local bus, private<br />

minivan Meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6<br />

dinners Budget: Allow EUR 100-150 for meals<br />

not included Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour<br />

Code: GAELST<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 21 Jun 30<br />

Jun 28 Jul 07<br />

Jul 12 Jul 21<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 26 Aug 04<br />

Aug 09 Aug 18<br />

Aug 23 Sep 01<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 30 Sep 08<br />

Sep 13 Sep 22<br />

ICELAND<br />

Reykjavik<br />

Golden Circle<br />

2<br />

Landmannalaugar<br />

Hveragerdi<br />

Skogar<br />

2<br />

1<br />

2<br />

1<br />

Alftavatn<br />

1<br />

Emstrur<br />

Thorsmork<br />

Inclusions<br />

Trip Style: Active Service Level: Basic<br />

Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt), wilderness lodge<br />

(2 nts), teepee (1 nt), ICEHOTEL® (1 nt)<br />

Transport: Bus, dog-sled, shoeshow Meals: 5<br />

breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Budget: Allow<br />

EUR130-190 for meals not included Group<br />

Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local<br />

guides Group Size: Max 10, Avg 8 Tour Code:<br />

GAEWLA<br />

Departures 2014<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jan 10 Jan 15 Feb 07 Feb 12 Mar 21 Mar 26<br />

Jan 17 Jan 22<br />

Departure dates for winter 2014/15 are to be confirmed.<br />

Ask your <strong>Travel</strong> Expert for details.<br />

Lapland<br />

Wilderness<br />

Kiruna<br />

1<br />

3<br />

SWEDEN<br />

GULF OF BOTHNIA<br />

1<br />

Icehotel<br />

FINLAND<br />

90<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


Montenegro<br />

Bulgaria<br />

SCANDINAVIA<br />

RUSSIA<br />

FR<br />

$1,855 PLUS<br />

FR<br />

$2,795<br />

Berlin or Copenhagen Stockholm 9 DAYS Stockholm Warsaw or Berlin<br />

14 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Three cool countries, three über-cool capital cities<br />

• Breathtaking views as you cruise the remote Geirangerfjord<br />

• Savour the flavours of Scandinavia’s distinctive cuisine<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05-06<br />

07<br />

08<br />

09<br />

Inclusions<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Berlin / Copenhagen<br />

Meet your group in Berlin, and travel by ferry to Denmark’s<br />

harbourside capital, Copenhagen (or you can join here). On Day 2,<br />

take in the sights of the vibrant Nyhavn waterfront area and explore<br />

the counter-cultural vibe in Christiania. This evening, why not enjoy<br />

the rides at the famous Tivoli Amusement Park? (B, D)<br />

Copenhagen / Oslo<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> via Sweden to Oslo, Norway’s beautiful capital, where there’s<br />

a sightseeing tour and free time to explore its 9th Century Viking<br />

ships, harbour and National Gallery. (2B, D)<br />

Oslo / Voss / Geirangerfjord<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> across the starkly beautiful high mountain plateau of<br />

Hardangervidda to the adventure capital of Voss. On Day 6, head to<br />

the Boyabreen Glacier in Skei and on to Norway’s longest and most<br />

spectacular fjord, Sognefjord. (2B, D)<br />

Geirangerfjord / Lom / Lillehammer / Gjovik<br />

Cruise along the Geirangerfjord before admiring one of the few<br />

remaining medieval ‘stave’ churches in Norway. Enjoy an optional<br />

thrill ride down an Olympic bobsled track! (B, D)<br />

Gjovik / Stockholm<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> past Lake Vänern before arriving into Stockholm, where you’re<br />

free to explore this coolest of capitals. (B)<br />

Stockholm<br />

Tour ends today in Stockholm, but you might like to extend your trip<br />

to 12 days (Tour Code: COCCSH) with an overnight cruise across the<br />

Baltic Sea and a day to explore Helsinki. (B)<br />

Service Level: Standard Age Group: Only for<br />

18-35s Accommodation: Hostels (7 nts),<br />

hotel (1 nt) Transport: Modern air-conditioned<br />

coach with power points for charging, ferry<br />

crossings Meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 dinners Group<br />

Leader: Tour Manager & Driver Group Size:<br />

Max 51 Notes: Hotel tips, local taxes & service<br />

charges included Tour Code: COCCSS<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 17 May 25<br />

Jun 07 Jun 15<br />

Jun 21 Jun 29<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 05 Jul 13<br />

Aug 02 Aug 10<br />

Aug 23 Aug 31<br />

Additional departure dates are available,<br />

please ask for details<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Aug 30 Sep 07<br />

Geiranger<br />

1<br />

Skei Lom<br />

Lillehammer<br />

Sognefjord<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Voss Gjovik<br />

Hardangervidda<br />

NORWAY<br />

2<br />

Oslo<br />

DENMARK<br />

2<br />

GERMANY<br />

SWEDEN<br />

Stockholm<br />

Copenhagen<br />

Berlin<br />

1<br />

Highlights<br />

• Cruise across the Baltic from super-cool Stockholm to Helsinki<br />

• Explore the breathtaking Hermitage in St. Petersburg<br />

• See the guards in Red Square and visit the grounds of the Kremlin<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-10<br />

11-13<br />

14<br />

Inclusions<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Stockholm<br />

Check-in to your hotel and enjoy an afternoon at leisure in the very<br />

cool Swedish capital before dinner with your fellow travellers. Day 2<br />

is yours to explore the 14 islands of Stockholm, before boarding the<br />

overnight cruise to Helsinki. (B, D)<br />

Helsinki / St. Petersburg<br />

At the forefront of Finland’s fashion and design scene, the quirky<br />

city of Helsinki boasts any number of independent shops, bars and<br />

restaurants, plus the remarkable fortress of Suomenlinna. On Day 4,<br />

cross the border into Russia to reach St. Petersburg. (2B, D)<br />

St. Petersburg<br />

Two full days to explore the riches and palace-lined waterways of<br />

this enchanting city. Visit the Hermitage, one of the world’s leading<br />

cultural museums. Take in a performance by the Russian Ballet, shop<br />

for Matryoshka dolls or tuck into beef stroganoff and vodka! (2B)<br />

St. Petersburg / Novogorod / Moscow<br />

Discover the ancient fort town of Novgorod and Tchaikovsky’s former<br />

house in Klin, en route to Moscow. Here, you can visit the Kremlin,<br />

Red Square and the magnificent St. Basil’s Cathedral. (4B, 2D)<br />

Moscow / Minsk / Warsaw<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> into Belarus for a locally-guided tour of Minsk, one of the<br />

least westernised of all the former Eastern Bloc capitals. Visit the<br />

Brest Fortress and cross into Poland to head for Warsaw which is<br />

packed with palaces, churches and mansions. Delve into the city’s<br />

darker history with a guided tour of the old Jewish ghetto. (3B, 2D)<br />

Warsaw / Berlin<br />

Tour ends in Warsaw, or you can catch a free transfer to Berlin. (B)<br />

Service Level: Standard Age Group: Only for<br />

18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (12 nts), ferry<br />

(1 nt) Transport: Modern air-conditioned coach<br />

with power points for charging, ferry crossing<br />

Meals: 13 breakfasts, 6 dinners Group Leader:<br />

Tour Manager & Driver Group Size: Max 51<br />

Notes: Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges<br />

included Tour Code: COCCRS<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

May 25 Jun 07<br />

Jun 15 Jun 28<br />

Jun 29 Jul 12<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 13 Jul 26<br />

Aug 10 Aug 23<br />

Aug 31 Sep 13<br />

Additional departure dates are available,<br />

please ask for details<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 07 Sep 20<br />

SWEDEN<br />

FINLAND<br />

GULF OF<br />

BOTHNIA St Petersburg<br />

Helsinki<br />

1<br />

1<br />

1 3<br />

Petrodvorets 1<br />

Stockholm Novgorod<br />

Klin<br />

BALTIC SEA<br />

Moscow<br />

Minsk<br />

Berlin Brest 1<br />

2 BELARUS<br />

Warsaw<br />

3<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

Belgium<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

91


BALTICS TO ST. PETERSBURG<br />

Vilnius St. Petersburg<br />

FR<br />

$1,999<br />

14 DAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

BALTIC SEA<br />

2<br />

Highlights<br />

• Wander the cobbled streets of Vilnius<br />

• Admire the dunes of the Curonian Spit<br />

• Enjoy a picnic in beautiful Riga<br />

• Live like a local on an Estonian farm<br />

• Join in lively nightlife of the Baltics<br />

• Live like a Tsar in St. Petersburg<br />

• Experience legendary ‘white nights’<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

May 25 Jun 07<br />

Jun 22 Jul 05<br />

Inclusions<br />

2<br />

Saaremaa<br />

FINLAND<br />

Curonian Spit<br />

POLAND<br />

2<br />

2<br />

Tallinn<br />

Riga<br />

LITHUANIA<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jul 20 Aug 02<br />

Aug 17 Aug 30<br />

2<br />

Vilnius<br />

ESTONIA<br />

LATVIA<br />

Narva<br />

1<br />

BELARUS<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 14 Sep 27<br />

Oct 12 Oct 25<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (11 nts), farm stay<br />

(2 nts) Transport: Public bus, ferry, bike<br />

Meals: 1 lunch Budget: Allow EUR 380-450<br />

for meals Group Leader: Chief Experience<br />

Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max<br />

16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEXVS<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $1,449<br />

St.Petersburg<br />

2<br />

RUSSIA<br />

FACEBOOK.COM/<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.AU<br />

The Baltic countries of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia remain a mystery to many travellers but<br />

this region will take no time at all to steal your heart. Beginning in charming cobblestoned<br />

Vilnius and ending in St. Petersburg, Russia’s cultural capital, this two-week trip gets to the<br />

very heart of the region. Enjoy inspiring views while cycling around spectacular dunes on<br />

Lithuania’s Curonian Spit, get an up-close glimpse of Riga’s castles and art nouveau district,<br />

experience rural life in Estonia, and venture into the fortresses and medieval architecture of<br />

Tallinn before crossing into Russia by land. Make the Baltics your special travel secret.<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

09-10<br />

11<br />

12-13<br />

14<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Vilnius / Trakai<br />

Arrive in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania and explore the Old Town - one of the oldest surviving<br />

medieval centres in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On Day 2, you’ll visit the Gothic-style<br />

Trakai Castle, perfectly sited on an island so you can take in beautiful lake views and the wooden<br />

architecture of the town. Return to Vilnius to admire its open-air markets and quirky attractions<br />

such as the Frank Zappa monument, a giant egg statue, and many more.<br />

Curonian Spit<br />

Jump on a public bus and ferry to make your way to the Curonian Spit and prepare to be amazed by<br />

some of the world’s most precious sand dunes. This spit of land dangling off the western part of<br />

Lithuania hosts hills of soft white sand, superb views and a collection of elk, deer and avian wildlife.<br />

Enjoy an included bicycle tour around Hill of Witches, Parnidis dune, and a visit to sea bird colonies.<br />

Riga<br />

Today, you will cross the border into Latvia and head to the funky and vibrant capital of Riga. Enjoy a<br />

guided tour of the city and a lunch of delicious treats from the Central Market. Once your taste buds<br />

are satisfied, choose to visit the Occupation Museum, the Riga Art Nouveau Centre, Riga Castle, the<br />

Andrejsala artists’ district or just wander the winding cobbled streets of the beautiful old town. (L)<br />

Saaremaa<br />

Another day, another Baltic border! Cross into Estonia and on to its largest island, Saaremaa, covered<br />

in thick pine forests and boasting empty stretches of sparkling coastline. It is a remote island in the<br />

Baltic Sea with unique traditions and heritage, tiny villages and old windmills seemingly unchanged<br />

by the passage of time. Experience a real taste of local life by spending two nights on a farm stay.<br />

There will be plenty of things to do, including hiking, cycling, mustard-making, fruit-picking and folk<br />

evenings with traditional music. Don’t miss an included tour of local breweries and bakeries.<br />

Tallinn<br />

It is time to leave the country life behind and continue on to the capital of Estonia and one of<br />

Europe’s most enchanting cities, Tallinn. Fall in love with this medieval town, its carved stone walls<br />

and 14th Century churches mixing with modern restaurants, boutiques and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy an<br />

included visit to Kadriorg Palace and use your free time to visit the Museum of the Occupation, the<br />

Dome Church, the open-air museum, go sea kayaking, visit the beaches or bask in a sauna.<br />

Narva<br />

Head towards the border of Estonia and Russia to the town of Narva, famous for its magnificent<br />

castle and an intriguing history. Visit the Hermann Fortress with two fortresses facing each other<br />

across the river - one in Russia, one in Estonia. You will have an option to go kayaking on the river.<br />

St. Petersburg<br />

Wave farewell to the Baltic countries and travel by bus to the ‘Paris of Russia’, St. Petersburg. An<br />

included walking tour exposes the secrets of this captivating city, bringing its history and culture<br />

to life. On Day 13, visit the famous Hermitage Museum. Opt to take a canal boat tour at midnight,<br />

experience the legendary ‘white nights’ in June when the sun barely dips below the horizon, ride the<br />

deepest subway in the world, lounge in the city parks or relax in a café with some tea and traditional<br />

Russian fare. This lavish, sprawling city is sure to charm you with its history, architecture and vibe.<br />

St. Petersburg<br />

Your tour ends today in St. Petersburg and you are free to depart at any time.<br />

92<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


SCANDI-BALTIC<br />

ADVENTURE<br />

STUDENTS<br />

FR<br />

$1,059 / FR $1,029<br />

GOLDEN RING<br />

OF RUSSIA<br />

FR<br />

$1,999<br />

Vilnius Tallinn 8 DAYS Moscow St. Petersburg<br />

8 DAYS<br />

Highlights<br />

• Visit all three Baltic capitals - Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn<br />

• Party in the outdoor bars in the ‘Summer Night City’ of Stockholm<br />

• Relax in typically Finnish style with a visit to a sauna<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02<br />

03-04<br />

05-06<br />

07-08<br />

Inclusions<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Vilnius / Klaipeda<br />

Today, get to know the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius with all its quirky<br />

nooks and crannies. You’ll enjoy a walking tour of the beautiful,<br />

historic old town and a trip to Trakai to visit the castle. It’s then<br />

off to Klaipeda and the famous Curonian Spit, a UNESCO-protected<br />

national park. Look out for elk and deer amidst the sand dunes!<br />

Klaipeda / Riga<br />

Explore the eerie Hill of Crosses before arriving into Riga, the capital<br />

city of Latvia, which is full of landmark Baltic sights and top nightlife.<br />

It also boasts 750 fine examples of art nouveau architecture. (B)<br />

Riga / Stockholm<br />

Today board the ferry for an overnight mini-cruise to Sweden’s<br />

capital, Stockholm. It promises to be a night full of entertainment,<br />

with karaoke and quite possibly an ABBA-themed tribute band. Arrive<br />

at sunrise on Day 4, and after checking-in, head off to discover the<br />

Old Town with our Viking friends. (2B)<br />

Stockholm / Helsinki<br />

Introduce yourself to Swedish meatballs with a carefree look<br />

around some of Stockholm’s 14 islands, before boarding the second<br />

overnight cruise, this time headed to Finland. On arrival, you’ll have<br />

the chance to explore Helsinki, a city at the forefront of Nordic<br />

design, get steamy in a sauna and party ‘til the sun comes up. (2B)<br />

Helsinki / Tallinn<br />

Today, you’ll cross the Baltic Sea to Estonia’s historic capital, Tallinn.<br />

Delve into the city’s history with a walk around the incredibly wellpreserved<br />

medieval centre, and take in the views over the city’s red<br />

tiled roofs. The trek finishes after breakfast on Day 8. (2B)<br />

Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18<br />

Accommodation: Hostels (5 nts), overnight<br />

ferry (2 nts, multishare) Transport: Modern airconditioned<br />

coach, ferry Meals: 7 breakfasts<br />

Group Leader: Guide Group Size: Avg 35<br />

Notes: Includes all orientation walks, Viking<br />

walk in Stockholm Tour Code: BU<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT IN VILNIUS - FINISH IN TALLINN<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jun 14 Jun 21 Jul 12 Jul 19 Aug 09 Aug 16<br />

Jun 28 Jul 05 Jul 26 Aug 02 Aug 23 Aug 30<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT IN TALLINN - FINISH IN VILNIUS<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jun 21 Jun 28<br />

Jul 05 Jul 12<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Jul 19 Jul 26<br />

Aug 02 Aug 09<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT<br />

FINISH<br />

Aug 16 Aug 23<br />

Aug 30 Sep 06<br />

Helsinki<br />

Overnight 1<br />

Cruise<br />

Stockholm<br />

1 Overnight<br />

Cruise<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Riga<br />

Hill of Crosses<br />

Klaipeda<br />

FINLAND<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Tallinn<br />

1<br />

Vilnius<br />

Highlights<br />

• Check out Moscow’s showpieces - Kremlin, Armoury and Red Square<br />

• Stay in a traditional Russian guesthouse on the shores of Nero Lake<br />

• Admire Orthodox frescoes and golden domes in grand cathedrals<br />

DAY<br />

01-02<br />

03-04<br />

05-08<br />

Inclusions<br />

Apr - Oct<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Moscow<br />

Arrive in the Russian capital at any time; meet your new tour buds<br />

and an old friend - vodka! On Day 2, get busy exploring Moscow, rich<br />

in history and housing many of the country’s most famous sights.<br />

Enjoy an included walking tour of the impressive Kremlin, the official<br />

residence of the President, and its immense complex of palaces and<br />

churches, as well as the Armoury Chamber.<br />

Moscow / Suzdal / Rostov<br />

After departing Moscow, you cover the Golden Ring; one of the<br />

oldest routes to be found in Russia, dotted with ancient towns each<br />

representing a different historic spirit of the Russian people. On the<br />

morning of Day 3, a private transfer will take you to Suzdal, a small<br />

town and former capital of European Russia in the 11th Century. On<br />

Day 4, travel to Rostov via Yuriev Poslki, the towns resembling openair<br />

museums, where life is slow and old traditions are maintained.<br />

Overnight will be spent in a traditional Russian guesthouse on the<br />

shore of Nero Lake. (B, D)<br />

Yaroslavl / St. Petersburg<br />

Enjoy a guided tour of Yaroslav, an ancient Russian town, located<br />

at the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl Rivers. In the evening,<br />

board an overnight train to St. Petersburg, the most European<br />

Russian city and often called ‘Venice of the North’. Enjoy a walking<br />

tour with a local guide to give you a real insight to its stunning<br />

architecture and history. In the morning of Day 7, travel to one of<br />

the most beautiful suburbs of St. Petersburg, Pushkin, once the royal<br />

estate of the Tsars and enjoy a guided tour of Catherine’s Palace. In<br />

the afternoon, return to St. Petersburg for a final dinner, and there<br />

is the option to take a night tour of the city’s beautiful rivers and<br />

canals. On Day 8, say ‘cheers’ with a final vodka and bid farewell to<br />

your new mates. Depart at any time. (3B)<br />

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age<br />

Accommodation: Hotels (5 nts), guesthouse<br />

(1 nt), train (1 nt) Transport: Van, train, bus<br />

Meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 dinner Budget: Allow<br />

USD 160-250 for meals not included Group<br />

Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local<br />

guides Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Tour Code:<br />

GAARGR<br />

My Own Room Available: Fr $1,199<br />

Departures 2014<br />

Selected Sundays, typically 2-3<br />

departures per month<br />

2<br />

St. Petersburg<br />

Moscow<br />

Rostov<br />

2<br />

RUSSIA<br />

Yaroslavl<br />

1<br />

1<br />

Suzdal<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

93


VODKATRAIN<br />

Trans Mongolian Railway & the Silk Road<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

what’s included<br />

• Honcho services in every city stop<br />

• All your train tickets<br />

• Accommodation on shared basis<br />

• Arrival / departure transfers en route<br />

• All Trans Mongolian journeys include a<br />

stay in a traditional Mongolian ger<br />

• Visa support for pre-booked tours<br />

extend your journey<br />

Vodkatrain has a range of VodkaPack<br />

city breaks and RailPacks through<br />

Europe and China to help you plan<br />

your journey. If Vodkatrain is part of<br />

a bigger trip and you are leaving or<br />

returning to Europe we’ve even made<br />

sure that the tour dates match up<br />

with those at Busabout (see pages<br />

88 and 93) so you won’t have to get<br />

on a plane between London and Hong<br />

Kong. That’s 12,000km overland!<br />

Experience the Trans Siberian Railway, Mongolia and the Silk Road at ground level. <strong>Travel</strong><br />

with the locals, explore cities with your local Honcho, decide what you want to see and do<br />

and pay local prices along the way!<br />

Vodkatrain brings together young, like-minded individuals with different backgrounds from<br />

all around the world to travel together through some of the most unique and interesting<br />

destinations on routes less travelled. You’ll be travelling with the locals wherever you go and<br />

will discover each new city with the help of your local Honcho.<br />

Vodkatrain is a great combination of independent backpacking and small group travel at<br />

affordable do-it-yourself prices. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional tour<br />

groups with fixed schedules and regimented sightseeing, Vodkatrain gives you the chance to<br />

do your own thing or let your Honcho show you around the city they live in and love!<br />

You might like<br />

Project Vodkatrain<br />

Complete a full Trans Mongolian journey<br />

and spend a week discovering Mongolia’s<br />

wilderness, learning the nomadic life and<br />

assisting with an environmental project.<br />

(19 days) (PVMB) Fr $2,895<br />

Please ask us about other great trips:<br />

The Ruski Huski Fr $2,445<br />

The Cossack Fr $3,965<br />

The Budgeting Bolshevik Fr $1,575<br />

The Marco Polo Fr $3,965<br />

94<br />

TRANSPORT & ACCOMMODATION<br />

The trains are a destination in themselves,<br />

especially the dining car! These are not<br />

chartered trains but regular scheduled<br />

services and they ferry families, traders,<br />

students, soldiers, business people,<br />

travellers and monks, so there is always an<br />

interesting mix of people. Overnight trains<br />

have comfortable bunk-bed style, mixed<br />

gender, four-berth compartments (sleeping<br />

configurations and facilities differ for some<br />

journeys) and they have bedding, reading<br />

lights, a big window, a small table, room for<br />

your backpack and constant hot water so<br />

you’ll never run out of instant noodles!<br />

At each stop a local Honcho will meet<br />

you and transfer you to and from your<br />

accommodation. They’ll also take care of the<br />

train tickets and make sure you’re on the<br />

right train and going in the right direction!<br />

You’ll stay in a mixture of hotels, hostels,<br />

guesthouses and traditional Mongolian gers<br />

(a real highlight); some accommodation<br />

may be multi-share but most will be twins.<br />

All are centrally located (or really close to<br />

public transport) and clean.<br />

GROUP TRAVEL AS INDIVIDUAL AS YOU<br />

Vodkatrain is 18-35 only, so you’ll be<br />

sharing your adventure with like-minded<br />

and independent travellers from across the<br />

globe. These are not ‘escorted’ tours but it<br />

is group travel. This means you’ll have other<br />

VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU<br />

travellers around to share experiences with<br />

and to provide a support network so you<br />

don’t have to tackle any hard bits alone!<br />

Vodktatrain is a travel revolution born out<br />

of the bureaucracy and challenges of travel<br />

through some of Asia’s most incredible,<br />

unique and unusual destinations.<br />

HONCHOS<br />

Honchos have grown up in their city and<br />

love showing you around, not only to the<br />

tourist sites (they are important too) but to<br />

the real heartbeat of the city, its people and<br />

those underground places you normally need<br />

weeks to find! They can show you how to<br />

use local transport, where to change money,<br />

their favourite cafés, bars and restaurants,<br />

can translate all the latest gossip and if<br />

there is something they don’t know they<br />

have the language skills to find out.<br />

Your Honchos are available from 9am ‘til<br />

9pm each day and some choose to stay<br />

out later for a drink. All their expenses<br />

are covered to ensure they’ll only take<br />

you to the places they would want to go<br />

themselves so there’s no funny business!<br />

Your Honcho probably has some ideas about<br />

what you should see in their city - but<br />

there is no pressure to do any suggested<br />

activities; if you want to do your own thing,<br />

they will help you with directions, a few local<br />

sayings or maybe scrawl a basic map on a<br />

napkin - then leave you to it...


THE VODKATRAIN<br />

Beijing St.Petersburg 21 DAYS<br />

This is the classic Trans Mongolian<br />

journey. Visit all the best places from<br />

electrifying Beijing, through to St.<br />

Petersburg, known as Russia’s ‘Venice<br />

of the North’. You’ll stay with the<br />

nomads in Mongolia and party in quirky<br />

Ulaanbaatar. Enjoy a dip in Lake Baikal<br />

after a few nights on the train and<br />

absorb fascinating history in Moscow or<br />

while strolling along the Great Wall.<br />

TOUR CODE: VTBS / VTSB<br />

DAY<br />

01-03<br />

04<br />

05-07<br />

08-09<br />

10-11<br />

12-15<br />

16-18<br />

19-21<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Beijing<br />

Start your journey in Beijing. Check out the<br />

Chinese capital’s hutongs, markets, Tiananmen<br />

Square and try some Peking Duck.<br />

Beijing / Ulaanbaatar<br />

Your first train and an opportunity to spot<br />

your first camel in the Gobi Desert.<br />

Ulaanbaatar / Terelj National Park<br />

Have a look around this quirky capital. On Day<br />

6 head to Terelj National Park and settle into<br />

life as a nomad in the ger camp.<br />

Trans Mongolian Railway / Irkutsk<br />

Return to Ulaanbaatar and depart for Irkutsk.<br />

Watch the traders at the border and catch a<br />

glimpse of your first yak.<br />

Irkutsk / Lake Baikal<br />

Morning arrival into Irkutsk, and then head<br />

to Lake Baikal. Pack a picnic and enjoy a hike<br />

along its beautiful shores.<br />

Trans Siberian Railway<br />

Head down to the dining car to practice your<br />

Russian!<br />

Moscow<br />

Discover the highlights around Red Square<br />

and spend some time in Gorky Park. Depart<br />

for St. Petersburg in the afternoon of Day 18.<br />

St. Petersburg<br />

Visit the grand avenue of Nevsky Prospekt<br />

and say your farewells to your group enjoying<br />

the live music scene before your epic journey<br />

is completed on Day 21.<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Beijing St Pete<br />

Jan 26 Feb 14<br />

Feb 22 Mar 14<br />

Mar 08 Mar 28<br />

Mar 22 Apr 11<br />

Mar 29 Apr 18<br />

Apr 12 May 02<br />

Apr 26 May 16<br />

May 10 May 30<br />

May 17 Jun 06<br />

Jun 04 Jun 24<br />

Jun 11 Jul 01<br />

Jun 25 Jul 15<br />

Jul 02 Jul 22<br />

Jul 09 Jul 29<br />

Jul 30 Aug 19<br />

Aug 13 Sep 02<br />

Aug 20 Sep 09<br />

Sep 03 Sep 23<br />

Sep 10 Sep 30<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 17 Oct 07<br />

Oct 01 Oct 21<br />

Oct 08 Oct 28<br />

Oct 15 Nov 04<br />

Oct 29 Nov 18<br />

Nov 12 Dec 02<br />

Nov 26 Dec 16<br />

Dec 10 Dec 30<br />

Dec 24 Jan 13<br />

St Pete Beijing<br />

Jan 06 Jan 26<br />

Jan 13 Feb 02<br />

Jan 27 Feb 16<br />

Feb 17 Mar 09<br />

Mar 03 Mar 23<br />

Mar 17 Apr 06<br />

Mar 31 Apr 20<br />

Apr 14 May 04<br />

May 05 May 25<br />

FR<br />

$3,320<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

May 12 Jun 01<br />

May 19 Jun 08<br />

May 26 Jun 15<br />

Jun 09 Jun 29<br />

Jun 16 Jul 06<br />

Jun 30 Jul 20<br />

Jul 07 Jul 27<br />

Jul 14 Aug 03<br />

Jul 28 Aug 17<br />

Aug 04 Aug 24<br />

Aug 18 Sep 07<br />

Sep 01 Sep 21<br />

Sep 08 Sep 28<br />

Sep 15 Oct 05<br />

Sep 22 Oct 12<br />

Sep 29 Oct 19<br />

Oct 13 Nov 02<br />

Oct 27 Nov 16<br />

Nov 17 Dec 07<br />

Dec 08 Dec 28<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

THE GENGHIS KHAN<br />

Beijing Moscow 15 DAYS<br />

Just because you are a bit tight on time<br />

it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on<br />

a Trans Mongolian Adventure. Try exotic<br />

delicacies at the Beijing night markets,<br />

experience traditional Mongolian<br />

hospitality at a ger camp and delve into<br />

history in Moscow. Hit three countries<br />

and do all this in two weeks - now that’s<br />

what we call an adventure!<br />

TOUR CODE: GKBM / GKMB<br />

DAY<br />

01<br />

02<br />

03<br />

04-07<br />

08<br />

09-12<br />

13-15<br />

ITINERARY<br />

Beijing<br />

Meet your group and Honcho in Beijing.<br />

Beijing<br />

Explore the hutongs, markets and Tiananmen<br />

Square here in China’s capital. Ride a bicycle<br />

around to get an idea of the scale of the city<br />

and the metro to grasp the density of the<br />

population.<br />

Trans Mongolian / Ulaanbaatar<br />

Board the train and get ready for an<br />

impressive change of wheels at the border!<br />

Ulaanbataar / Terelj National Park<br />

Check out Mongolia’s capital city. On Day 5,<br />

head out to Terelj National Park and your ger<br />

camp, climb Turtle Rock and play some pool<br />

with the locals in the wilderness. On Day 7,<br />

return to Ulaanbaatar.<br />

Ulaanbataar<br />

Get a great view of the town from the Zaisan<br />

Memorial or mingle with monks at the<br />

Gaandan Khiid Monastery.<br />

Trans Siberian Railway<br />

Cross the border into Russia and watch the<br />

landscapes change as you enter Siberia.<br />

Spend time with the locals, share stories and<br />

watch the landscapes change out the window.<br />

Moscow<br />

Check out the Kremlin, visit Lenin or travel on<br />

the dazzling metro system. On Day 15, it’s<br />

time to bid farewell to your new friends.<br />

Departures 2014<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Beijing Moscow<br />

*Feb 02 Feb 05<br />

*Feb 12 Feb 26<br />

*Mar 12 Mar 26<br />

*Mar 26 Apr 09<br />

*Apr 09 Apr 23<br />

*Apr 23 May 07<br />

*May 14 May 28<br />

Jun 05 Jun 19<br />

Jun 12 Jun 26<br />

Jun 26 Jul 10<br />

Jul 10 Jul 24<br />

Jul 24 Aug 07<br />

Aug 14 Aug 28<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Sep 11 Sep 25<br />

Oct 16 Oct 30<br />

Nov 20 Dec 04<br />

Moscow Beijing<br />

Jan 13 Jan 26<br />

Feb 10 Feb 23<br />

Mar 10 Mar 23<br />

Apr 07 Apr 20<br />

Apr 21 May 04<br />

May 06 May 18<br />

May 19 Jun 01<br />

Jun 02 Jun 15<br />

Jun 09 Jun 22<br />

FR<br />

$2,065<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

Jun 23 Jul 06<br />

Jun 30 Jul 13<br />

Jul 07 Jul 20<br />

Jul 14 Jul 27<br />

Jul 28 Aug 10<br />

Aug 04 Aug 17<br />

Aug 18 Aug 31<br />

Sep 01 Sep 14<br />

Sep 08 Sep 21<br />

Sep 22 Oct 05<br />

Oct 20 Nov 02<br />

Nov 24 Dec 07<br />

Due to rail schedules, dates marked (*) have one less night in Beijing<br />

and Moscow, two extra nights on trains and a day trip to Hohot.<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

95


LOCAL LIVING HOLIDAYS<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

For those travellers who don’t enjoy long days travelling from place to place, and like to<br />

unpack rather than live out of suitcase, our ‘Local Living’ holidays are designed to really<br />

get you under the skin of your favourite destination. Staying in authentic country homes,<br />

farmhouses, agriturismos and characterful apartments, you’ll get close to the land and its<br />

people whilst discovering the local culture through daily activities such as hiking, cycling,<br />

vineyard or market visits, language classes or cooking demos. The experience differs by<br />

region, but the result is always immersive and one-of-a-kind.<br />

WHAT’S LIFE LIKE LOCAL LIVING?<br />

TAKING IT SLOW<br />

If it’s Thursday, it must be Belgium, right?<br />

Wrong. Local Living trips are designed for<br />

travellers who don’t want to rush around<br />

Europe at breakneck speed, ticking off all<br />

the must-see sights and countries from a<br />

checklist. Local Living trips are for those<br />

who prefer to slowly slip into a destination<br />

and let it get under their skin. These trips<br />

open up some of Europe’s most memorable<br />

places, allowing you to stay among the<br />

locals, set your own agenda and witness real<br />

life in your new favourite place.<br />

UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION<br />

You won’t move around much on a Local<br />

Living trip, but considering the possible<br />

settings - Burgundy, Tuscany, Sorrento,<br />

to name just a few - you won’t want to.<br />

The centrepiece of each trip is a charming<br />

and unique home base, carefully selected<br />

to provide you with a relaxed atmosphere<br />

and an authentic feel for the region you’re<br />

in. These aren’t hotels, we’re talking Italian<br />

agriturismos, Icelandic farmhouses, sedate<br />

river barges and the like. Best of all? You’ll<br />

only have to unpack once!<br />

YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND<br />

Just like on a regular tour with G Adventures<br />

you’ll benefit from having a CEO (that’s a<br />

Chief Experience Officer) to help with any<br />

questions you might have. He or she is wellversed<br />

in the inner workings of your chosen<br />

regions and can help with translations, bike<br />

rental, restaurant recommendations, day<br />

trips and just about anything else you need.<br />

COMPLETE FLEXIBILITY<br />

Local Living trips are intentionally kept loose<br />

and open, there’s no fixed itinerary and no<br />

early morning wake-up calls. Your CEO will<br />

have a cheat sheet of ideas, sights, sporting<br />

activities and local markets (and will know<br />

how to get you to each place smoothly and<br />

effortlessly), but essentially you’re free to<br />

do as much or as little as you feel like.<br />

FOOD & DINING<br />

Your CEO will equip you with a starter kit<br />

of breakfast essentials and local delicacies<br />

when you arrive. Dine in, dine out, it’s up to<br />

you. On almost every trip you’ll also have<br />

the chance to sit down to a delicious feature<br />

meal experience with a special local guest.<br />

96 VISIT WWW.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.COM.AU


AMALFI COAST LOCAL LIVING<br />

Naples Naples<br />

FR<br />

$1,799<br />

8 DAYS<br />

Arrive into Naples and transfer the next day to your comfortable<br />

agriturismo, a converted 17th Century monastery in the village of<br />

Furore, high in the hills above the Amalfi Coast. Live like one of the<br />

very lucky locals, enjoying pre-dinner cooking demos and delicious<br />

home-cooked meals. Tour the ruins of Pompeii, visit picturesque<br />

coastal towns and go hiking on breathtaking walking routes.<br />

Departs: Saturdays (Mar-Nov) Trip Style: Local Living Service Level: Upgraded<br />

Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Agriturismo (6 nts),<br />

hotel (1 nt) Transport: Bus, minibus, boat Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6<br />

dinners Budget: Allow EUR 100-150 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief<br />

Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEIAL<br />

SOUTHERN TUSCANY LOCAL LIVING<br />

Rome Rome<br />

FR<br />

$1,399<br />

7 DAYS<br />

Arrive into Rome and transfer by train to a rural agriturismo in a<br />

country setting with beautiful valley views. Your host, Stefano,<br />

is a keen organic producer and loves showing visitors around his<br />

family’s orchards, olive groves and vineyards. Peruse local markets,<br />

get your hands dirty in the kitchen, explore Tuscany’s stone-walled<br />

towns, visit Florence or Siena, and soak up the idyllic scenery.<br />

Departs: Saturdays (Apr-Oct) Trip Style: Local Living Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Small, locally-owned<br />

farmhouse / agriturismo (6 nts) Transport: Bus, train Meals: 6 breakfasts, 5<br />

dinners Budget: Allow EUR 120-170 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief<br />

Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 12, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAEIST<br />

REGIONAL TOURING & SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES<br />

TUSCANY SAN GIMIGNANO LOCAL LIVING<br />

Rome Rome<br />

FR<br />

$1,399<br />

7 DAYS<br />

BURGUNDY CANAL BOAT LOCAL LIVING<br />

Louhans Louhans<br />

FR<br />

$1,299<br />

8 DAYS<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> by train from Rome to the beautiful Tuscan hill town of San<br />

Gimignano to stay in a medieval house converted into apartments.<br />

Enjoy orientation walks in Rome, Siena and Florence, a half-day<br />

cooking class, wine tasting at a local cooperative, walks through<br />

the beautiful Tuscan countryside and a home-cooked dinner<br />

courtesy of your charming host, Ugo, a native of San Gimignano.<br />

Departs: Saturdays (Apr-Oct) Trip Style: Local Living Service Level: Standard<br />

Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Apartments in<br />

locally-owned house (6 nts) Transport: Local bus, train Meals: 6 breakfasts, 2<br />

dinners Budget: Allow EUR 240-320 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief<br />

Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 8, Avg 6 Tour Code: GAEIGL<br />

Get a new perspective on France with like-minded travellers aboard<br />

a charming canal boat with just four ensuite cabins. Maneouvre<br />

through locks as you cruise for 4-5 hours each day, stopping for<br />

wine tastings and gastronomic indulgences, cycling along country<br />

lanes and hiking in verdant valleys. Facilities include shared lounge<br />

and kitchen, plus a furnished sundeck complete with barbecue.<br />

Departs: Selected Saturdays (May-Oct) Trip Style: Local Living Service Level:<br />

Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: 49-foot<br />

canal boat (7 nts) Transport: Canal boat Meals: None Budget: Allow EUR 250-<br />

320 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group<br />

Size: Max 8, Avg 6 Tour Code: GAEFBL<br />

SORRENTO LOCAL LIVING<br />

Naples Naples<br />

FR<br />

$1,499<br />

7 DAYS<br />

ICELAND SOUTH LOCAL LIVING<br />

Reykjavik Reykjavik<br />

FR<br />

$2,249<br />

7 DAYS<br />

Enjoy an orientation walk and optional group dinner in Naples<br />

before transferring to Sorrento where your home for the week<br />

is an organic lemon farm with sweeping views of the sea. Enjoy<br />

home-cooked dinners using organic produce, limoncello tasting<br />

and a pizza-making demo. Take a day trip to the Isle of Capri, hike<br />

the famous ‘Walk of the Gods’ and tour the ruins of Pompeii.<br />

Departs: Selected Sundays (Apr-Oct) Trip Style: Local Living Service Level:<br />

Upgraded Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Agriturismo<br />

(5 nts), hotel (1 nt) Transport: Minibus, boat Meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5<br />

dinners Budget: Allow EUR 100-150 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief<br />

Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEISO<br />

Take a bike ride around Reykjavik and tour the Golden Circle’s three<br />

star attractions - Pingvellir, Gulfoss and Geysir - before arriving<br />

at your homestay, an old farmhouse with two kitchens, hot tub<br />

and sauna. Enjoy home-cooked Icelandic specialities for dinner<br />

and a spectacular range of optional activities such as snorkelling,<br />

canoeing, hiking, whitewater rafting and whale watching cruises.<br />

Departs: Selected Saturdays (Jun-Sep) Trip Style: Local Living Service Level:<br />

Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Fully-equipped<br />

farmhouse (5 nts), hotel (1 nt) Transport: Private van, bike Meals: 6 breakfasts, 4<br />

lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow EUR 40-50 for meals not included Group Leader:<br />

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Group Size: Max 14, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAELIL<br />

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK<br />

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