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The Alternative Collection2013-14Russia and Trans-Siberian, North & South Korea, E<strong>as</strong>tern & Central Europe,The Balkans, The Baltics, Cauc<strong>as</strong>us & Central Asia, Indochina, Far E<strong>as</strong>t Asia, CubaGroup Tours • Tailor-made • City Breaks
ContentsWelcome to <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>4-5 Ask the ExpertsBalkan Peninsular6-7 Albania8 Albania in Depth9 Highlights of Albania10 Tirana-Budva-Peja-Prishtina11 Cultural Landscapes ofAlbania and Macedonia12-13 Kosovo14 Kosovo in DepthGroup Tour15 Balkan Capitals – Sofia,Skopje & Prishtina16-17 Macedonia18 Explore MacedoniaGroup Tour19 Skopje & Lake Ohrid20-21 Serbia22-23 Montenegro24-25 Bosnia-Herzegovina26 Sarajevo & Mostar27 Sarajevo to Belgradeby Train28-29 Croatia30 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic Croatia Group Tour31 Highlights of CroatiaFly-Drive32 Highlights of the Balkans33 Dalmatian HighlightsCruise34-35 Slovenia36 Ljubljana & Lake Bled37 Slovenia & Istria Fly-Drive38-39 Bulgaria40-41 Romania42-43 TurkeyCentral & E<strong>as</strong>tern Europe44-45 Germany46-47 Austria48-49 Hungary50-51 Czech Republic52 Prague, Vienna, Bratislava& Budapest53 Prague City Breaks54-55 Slovakia56 Slovakia Fly-Drive57 Bratislava City Breaks58-59 Poland60 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic Poland Group Tour61 Warsaw & Krakow62 Krakow City Breaks63 Gdansk and WarsawCity BreaksBaltic States64-65 Baltic States66 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic Baltic Group Tour67 Baltic Capitals Tour68 Tallinn & the Islands69 Tallinn & St Petersburg70 Baltic Fly-Drive71 Tallinn City Breaks72 Riga City Breaks73 Vilnius City BreaksRussia & Beyond74-75 Russia76 Highlights of Moscow &St Petersburg Group Tour77 Russian Language &Cuisine Experience78 Moscow & St Petersburg79 Highlights of St Petersburg80 Luxury Moscow &St Petersburg81 Luxury Moscow & theGolden Ring82 Moscow City Breaks83 St Petersburg City Breaks84 M/S Litvinov Cruise85 M/S Russ or M/SChernishevsky Cruise86-87 Volga Dream Cruise88-89 Trans-Siberian90 Moscow to Beijing viaIrkutsk & Mongolia91 Moscow to Vladivostok92-93 Ukraine94 Highlights of Ukraine95 Kiev & Crimea96 Highlights of WesternUkraine97 Ukraine City Breaks98-99 Moldova100 Undiscovered MoldovaGroup Tour101 Moldova & Ukraine102-3 Belarus104 Best of Western Belarus105 A Journey from Belarusto KaliningradCauc<strong>as</strong>us106-7 Cauc<strong>as</strong>us108 From the C<strong>as</strong>pian to theBlack Sea Group Tour109 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic Georgia110 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic Armenia111 Cheese & Wine Tourof GeorgiaCentral Asia112-3 Central Asia114 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic UzbekistanGroup Tour115 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic TurkmenistanGroup TourE<strong>as</strong>t Asia116-7 China118 Highlights of China119 Gardens of China120-1 Mongolia122-3 North Korea124-5 Pioneering North KoreaGroup Tour126 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic North KoreaGroup Tour127 Individual North KoreaTours128-9 South Korea130 Highlights of South KoreaGroup Tour131 Cl<strong>as</strong>sic South KoreaGroup Tour132-3 Indochina134 Grand IndochinaGroup Tour135 Highlights of VietnamGroup Tour136 Highlights of Vietnam& Cambodia137 Mekong Delta Vietnam& Cambodia138 Cambodia & LaosDiscovery139 Responsible TravelCambodia140-1 Myanmar (Burma)142 Explore MyanmarGroup Tour143 Highlights of MyanmarCuba144-5 CubaImportant Information147 Booking Conditions148 Country Information
<strong>Holidays</strong> withstories to tellWhen it comes to exploring the world, the bestguides are those with the p<strong>as</strong>sion and first handknowledge to know just what’s really worth visitingand when.<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> have been welcoming people to theplaces we know and love for over 40 years. They maybe places that are a little off the beaten track, buttheir history, people and culture mean they havecharms all of their own.The world is a f<strong>as</strong>cinating place. Whether it’s ajourney of a lifetime or a weekend city break, travelwith us and you’ll have stories to tell.3
Ask the ExpertsWelcome to our 2013 brochure, an eclectic collection of our favouriteunique and inspiring places to visit in Russia and the alternativee<strong>as</strong>t. And we should know; from our earliest forays into Albania in1971 to our ground-breaking North Korea tours of the 1980s, we’vebeen pioneers in off-the-beaten-track holidays for over 40 years.Specialist KnowledgeOur enthusi<strong>as</strong>tic staff travel extensivelythroughout <strong>Regent</strong>’s destinations and can offerspecialist advice to help plan your ideal holiday.Because we travel frequently, we can give themost up-to-date information, guidance and travelsuggestions. Many of our staff have lived or workedin their specialist are<strong>as</strong> and will happily share theirinsider tips to ensure that you really experience acountry, rather than just visit it.Group Tours orTailor-made TravelThe collection of suggested itineraries andgroup tours in this brochure are just a few of ourrecommendations for experiencing the best thatthese f<strong>as</strong>cinating destinations have to offer. Manyof our group tours have guaranteed departures,and all are fully escorted either by a local tourleader in conjunction with one of our trusted localpartners, or accompanied by one of our expertTour Managers from the UK. You may of coursechoose to devise your own tailor-made trip; ourexperts will help put together the perfect itineraryespecially for you, departing any day, for anyduration, with or without a tour guide.City BreaksThis brochure contains a selection of our favouriteshort breaks in cities which will captivate anddelight. We choose our hotels carefully, b<strong>as</strong>edon central location, value for money and goodfacilities, and in many cities we offer 3, 4 and 5-staroptions. Our knowledgeable staff will recommendthe best options to suit your needs, plus pre-bookyour opera, ballet or concert tickets if requiredand even recommend our favourite restaurants!Visit our website for the full selection of citybreaks available.For Holiday PioneersIf you’re thinking about a <strong>Regent</strong> holiday, you’reprobably somebody who likes to do things a littledifferently. Our destinations can be off-thebeaten-track,and some still remain relativelyunderdeveloped and may lack the facilities andservice levels you have come to expect. That’sjust part of what makes them so unique; travellingwith this in mind will help you appreciate the littlequirks and cultural differences you may encounteron your journey.<strong>Holidays</strong> protected by ATOLYour financial protection is important to us, whichis why we are fully bonded by ATOL. Our ATOLlicence (10417) protects any <strong>Regent</strong> holidaypackage including a flight and ensures that yourmoney would be refunded or that you would berepatriated in the unlikely event of our insolvency.We are also a member of ABTA which meansthat we are obliged to maintain a high standardof service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct,therefore you can book your <strong>Regent</strong> Holiday incomplete confidence.British Travel AwardsWe are very proud to have been voted BESTSMALL TOUR OPERATOR TO EAST ANDCENTRAL ASIA at the 2012 British TravelAwards. More than one million votes were c<strong>as</strong>tby consumers to determine the winners of thecoveted awards, and we’re delighted to have beenrecognised by holiday-makers who voted our tripsthe best of the best. See pages 112 – 115 for ouraward winning Central Asia tours.
Map key:Balkan PeninsularCentral & E<strong>as</strong>tern EuropeBaltic StatesRussia & BeyondCauc<strong>as</strong>usCentral AsiaE<strong>as</strong>t AsiaNEW FOR 2013 – CUBAIn 1975 <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> w<strong>as</strong> one ofthe first companies to offer grouptours to Cuba, and we’re delightedto bring you a brand new range ofCuba tours for 2013 – turn to pages144-145 for more details.5Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
AlbaniaThe Inside StoryMembers of the first <strong>Regent</strong> group who travelled toAlbania in 1970 would struggle to recognise the countrytoday. Gone are the virtually traffic-free roads, collectivefarms and churches and mosques converted into sportshalls, but the warm Albanian welcome, dramatic scenery,evidence of 400 years of Ottoman occupation and enthrallingarchaeology are still the same.Discover a country of wild, natural beauty with dark,brooding mountains, a rugged, undeveloped co<strong>as</strong>tline andhills clad with olive trees. Explore the museum cities of Beratand Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra, both dominated by towering c<strong>as</strong>tles, andlearn about the national hero, Skanderbeg, in Kruja C<strong>as</strong>tleMuseum. Marvel at the extraordinary 3rd century B.C.amphitheatre at Butrint and the ancient city of Apolloniawhere much remains to be discovered. Drive the rollerco<strong>as</strong>terroad along the Albanian Riviera, p<strong>as</strong>s remote mountainvillages and gaze down on pristine, unspoilt beaches. Join theevening promenade in Tirana, now more Mediterranean instyle, and meander through the neighbourhood where theCommunist Party leaders used to live.Storyto tell -LorettaGroveWhy I loveAlbaniaLeaving the bustlingcity of Tirana behind,you can find a countrywhere time h<strong>as</strong> almoststood still, with unspoiltscenery, wild beaches,rocky olive groves, arich heritage of Romanruins and reallyhospitable, friendlypeople. On my l<strong>as</strong>ttrip I travelledby the ferryfrom Komanto Fierzealong gorgesthat make upthe KomanReservoir.1000 BCBronze Age sites at Maliq,Tren, Podgor and Gaitan150Ptolemy’s map shows cityof Albanopolis (locatednorthe<strong>as</strong>t of Durrës)1478Krujë falls to Ottoman Turks;many Albanians flee tosouthern Italy, Greece & Egypt1878Albanian leaders meetin Kosovo and form theLeague of Prizren1920Albania admitted to Leagueof Nations <strong>as</strong> sovereign andindependent state588 BCGreek colony ofApollonia founded1466National hero Skanderbegleads defence of Krujëagainst Ottoman armies1861First school known to useAlbanian language in moderntimes opens in Shkodër1912Muslim and Christiandelegates at Vlorë declareAlbania independent
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in AlbaniaTirana City Breaks4 days from £345pp twin-shareTirana is the perfect choice for acity break with a difference. Oncea bustling Ottoman settlement,then a drab communist backwater,today Tirana bustles with vitalityonce more. Chic boutiques, familyruneateries, Turkish bazaars,well-stocked galleries and freshlyrestored mosques vie for thevisitor’s attention.A stroll along Boulevard of theMartyrs is the ideal place to start.In the evening, the Blloku, or Blockarea, h<strong>as</strong> become Tirana’s hippestand most vibrant district. Filledwith cafes, restaurants, bars, andnightclubs, it is the place to see andbe seen.Tirana & DurresBeach Stays8 days from £585pp twin-shareA twin-centre holiday in Albaniais the perfect introduction to thisf<strong>as</strong>cinating developing destination- spend time exploring the capitalcity of Tirana combined with timerelaxing on a beach. Only 40 minutesaway from Tirana lie endless sandybeaches and the azure waters of theAdriatic Sea.Hotel Mondial HHHHOne of our favourite hotels inTirana, the Mondial is located withinwalking distance from SkanderbegSquare. There are 28 individualrooms (standard, superior, granddeluxe and suites) decorated in acl<strong>as</strong>sic style. Rooms have balconies,air conditioning, mini-bar and inroomsafe. Don’t forget to take abreak from sightseeing and takea swim in the rooftop swimmingpool complete with sun beds andwaiter service.TIRANAMaja eJezercës2693 mMONTENEGROLakeScutariAdriaticSeaSazanKoplikLumi iDrinitShköderNorthAlbanianAlpsPokeBajramCurriBlack DrinLezhëRrëshenBurrelLumi i OsumitKOSOVOKukësPeshkopiKrujëMACEDONIAVorëShijakTIRANËDurrësKavajëLibrazhdElb<strong>as</strong>anRrogozhinëLakeGërrik Përrenj<strong>as</strong>Ohrid LakePrespaLushnjëALBANIA PogradecKuçovëFierBeratBilishtKorçëPoliçanCorovodëVlorëErsekëKëleyrëOrikum TepelenëPërmetStrait of TarantoDrinoGjirok<strong>as</strong>tërSarandëDelvinëGREECEKonispolAlbania - Perfect ForCulture and history buffs are f<strong>as</strong>cinated by Albania <strong>as</strong> the country is filledwith ancient churches, archaeological sites and concrete pillboxes. Naturelovers appreciate the co<strong>as</strong>tal scenery stretching over 450 kilometres withtwo distinct landscapes - the Adriatic and the Ionian. Walkers and trekkerscan venture into the Dinaric Alps and the Pindus Mountains plus there areplenty of different types of waterfowl, wading birds, song birds, raptors andgame birds for the “twitchers” amongst us.1944Albania becomescommunist underEnver Hoxha1971<strong>Regent</strong> leads first tour toAlbania; only clean shaventravellers allowed!1997Armed uprising inprotest at collapse ofpyramid schemes leavingthousands bankrupt2010National comichero Sir NormanWisdom dies1928Parliament declaresAlbania a kingdom withKing Zog at its head1961Soviet Union breaksdiplomatic relationswith Albania1991Pope John Paul IImakes historic visit2004Albania enters EurovisionSong Contest for thefirst time!7Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Albaniain DepthGroup TourTour durationHoliday type14 daysGroup TourFully GuidedDeparture 4-17 Sept 2013This comprehensive group tour to Albaniavisits all of the country’s main highlightsincluding Tirana, Durres, Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra, Saranda,Berat and Korca, and spends time in theremote mountainous area in the northe<strong>as</strong>t.From beer, wine and cheese-t<strong>as</strong>ting toIllyrian archaeological sites, medieval artsand stunning mountain vist<strong>as</strong>, this tour h<strong>as</strong>something for everyone. The group size islimited to 16 participants and will be escortedby a tour leader from <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>.Day 1 Fly to TiranaFly to Tirana and transfer to the hotel for 2nights.Day 2 TiranaSightseeing tour of Tirana visiting Bekt<strong>as</strong>hiTekke and Skanderbeg Square for the NationalHistorical Museum, the Mosque of Et-hem Bejand the National Art Gallery. Take the cable carto the top of Mount Dajti before visiting 17thcentury Buneci house and the ex-residentialblock of communist party leaders. (B,L)Day 6 Valbona to DurresDrive to Prizren in Kosovo before continuingto Lezha. Visit the Memorial of Skanderbegand the ruins of the church of St. Nichol<strong>as</strong>.Continue to Durres to visit the RomanAmphitheatre. Overnight in Durres. (B,L)Day 7 Durres to BeratDrive to the museum city of Berat, known<strong>as</strong> the ‘city of a thousand windows’. The oldTurkish part of the town is very picturesqueand encomp<strong>as</strong>sed by the medieval fortress.Visit the Citadel, the Church of St Mary ofVllaherna and The Onufri Museum. Afterlunch visit the Ethnographic Museum, King’sMosque, Bachelor’s Mosque and HelvetianTekke. Overnight in Berat. (B,L)Day 8 Berat to VloraTravel to Fieri, visiting Ardenica Mon<strong>as</strong>teryand the ancient archaeological site of Apolloniaen route. Afternoon visit to IndependenceHouse. Overnight at Vlora Beach. (B,L)the scenic Barm<strong>as</strong>h P<strong>as</strong>s. Here, visit a wineryand cheese factory. Tour of the KamenicaTumulus, including a prehistory museum.Check into hotel for 2 nights. (B,L)Day 12 KorcaExplore the Korca region including a visitto the village of Voskopoja, once one ofthe most important towns of the OttomanEmpire. See some outstanding examples ofOrthodox Christian churches, which escapedthe destruction of the communist regime. Visita local beer factory before exploring PrespaLake and National Park. (B,L)Day 13 Korca to TiranaVisit the Medieval Arts Museum, displayingworks by Albania’s most famous painters ofthe Middle Ages. Enjoy a delicious fish lunchbefore a sightseeing tour of the formerOttoman city of Elb<strong>as</strong>an. Continue to Tiranafor a farewell dinner with live music. (B,L,D)Day 14 Tirana to UK8Day 3 Tirana to ShkodraVisit Kruja and discover its fortress, theMuseum of Skanderbeg, the EthnographicMuseum and the Kruja Bazaar. In the afternoon,drive north to the lakeside town of Shkodraand visit the ruins of the Fortress of Rozafa.Excursion to Mesi Bridge and the Old KosovoRoad, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the Shkodra Museum.Overnight in Shkodra. (B,L)Day 4 Shkrodra to ValbonaHead to Koman and board the ferry to Fierza.In the afternoon, visit the Tekke of DervishRexhep Torcu in Luzna. Check into guesthousefor 2 nights. (B,L)Day 5 ValbonaExplore the majestic Valbona River Valley.Visit Dragobi, a beautiful traditional northernvillage with many wooden and stone kull<strong>as</strong>. (B,L)Day 9 Vlora to SarandaDrive along the mountain road of the AlbanianRiviera through the Llogora P<strong>as</strong>s and itsstunning views of the Ionian co<strong>as</strong>tline. Visitthe Ali P<strong>as</strong>ha Fortress and the Roman ruinsof Butrin. Overnight in Saranda. (B,L)Day 10 Saranda to Gjirok<strong>as</strong>traDepart for Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra with a visit to thechurch of Shen Kolle at Mesopotami. Stop atthe Blue Eye Springs, the main source of theRiver Bistrica. Tour the strikingly picturesqueGjirok<strong>as</strong>tra, visiting the district museumand the pre-Ottoman citadel. Overnight inGjirok<strong>as</strong>tra. (B,L)Day 11 Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra to KorcaDrive through the stunning White Mountainsvia the Kelcyra Gorge. P<strong>as</strong>s the small highlandtown of Permeti and its vineyards to reachVisit the Martyrs of the National Cemeteryand the British and Commonwealth Cemeterybefore transferring to the airport for flightsback to the UK. (B,L)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1680Single room supplement £215Prices include• Return flights with British Airways ineconomy cl<strong>as</strong>s from London Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportation• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof AlbaniaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-roundThis individual itinerary introduces thehighlights of central and southern Albaniaand is ideal for the first-time visitor. Certainlyone of the l<strong>as</strong>ting memories in Albania is thatof the stunning views, <strong>as</strong> you drive along theAlbanian Riviera with rugged mountains onone side and a sparkling co<strong>as</strong>tline on the other.From the Bay of Vlora, travel through the P<strong>as</strong>sof Llogora, where the landscape dramaticallychanges from Adriatic to Ionian. Where elsecan you visit an old fortress of Ali P<strong>as</strong>ha anda secret submarine b<strong>as</strong>e tunnelled into thecove by the Soviets?This tour includes a private car, driver andEnglish-speaking guide for the duration ofyour trip except for the free morning in Tiranaon day 8. You can extend your holiday with abeach stay in one of the many small hotelslocated on the beach, south of Durres.Day 1 Fly to Tiranafrom Corfu and Corinth, Apollonia w<strong>as</strong> animportant port along the route between Romeand Byzantium. Continue to Vlora and stayovernight in hotel on Vlora beach. (B,L)Day 4 Vlora to SarandaContinue on the mountain roads along theAlbanian Riviera and through the LlogaraP<strong>as</strong>s with its stunning views of the Ionianco<strong>as</strong>tline. En route, visit the 17th-centuryco<strong>as</strong>tal fortress of Ali P<strong>as</strong>ha of Ioanina atPorto Palermo. Check into hotel in Sarandafor 2 night stay. (B,L)Day 5 Saranda and ButrintiVisit Albania’s most important archaeologicalsite, Butrinti, in the morning. Thisrediscovered city is a microcosm of almost3,000 years of Mediterranean history. Itsancient fortifications evoke the city’s militarypower and the 3rd century BC amphitheatresymbolises the rich culture of this oncethriving ancient city. Later visit the remainsof a mon<strong>as</strong>tery of the 40 Saints, from whichthe modern name of Saranda is derived. Restof afternoon at leisure. (B,L)to the abundance of windows in the city’sred-roofed houses. Built on the slopes of amountain, the old Turkish part of the town isencomp<strong>as</strong>sed by a medieval fortress and isincredibly picturesque. Discover the LeadenMosque, the King’s Mosque, the Bachelor’sMosque and the Alveti Tekke, a smaller shrinewhere the Dervishes once practised. Afterlunch, drive to Durres for a tour of the Romanamphitheatre. Depending on your choice youwill either return to Tirana for the l<strong>as</strong>t nightor stay in a hotel in Durres on the beach. Wecan add extra nights if you wish. (B,L)Day 8 Tirana/Durres to UKFree day in either Tirana or Durres beforetransferring to the airport for flights backto the UK. (B)Fly to Tirana and transfer to hotel for 2 nightstay.Prices from3-star hotel optionDay 2 TiranaPer person twin-share £1475Single room supplement £130Begin with a full day city tour. Tirana is locatedDay 6 Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra and Berat4-star hotel optionon the site of a Byzantine fortress and h<strong>as</strong> beenPer person twin-share £1620the capital since 1920. With its bustling bazaars, Drive to the museum city of Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra, Single room supplement £195f<strong>as</strong>hionable boutiques, café culture and spruced birthplace of the former iron-fisted dictatorup apartment blocks, Tirana is a city rapidly of Albania, Enver Hoxha. Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra is a Prices includerediscovering itself. Visit the Mosque of Et-hem strikingly picturesque town, perched on the • Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBej, the Clock Tower, the National Museum, side of a mountain above the Drin River. TheBritish Airways direct from LondonNational Art Gallery, Skanderbeg Square, The tour includes the district museum, housedGatwickMartyrs Cemetery, Grand Park and various in the building in which Enver Hoxha w<strong>as</strong> • All airport taxes and security chargesgovernment buildings. (B,L)born and the pre-Ottoman citadel, a former • Accommodation in 3/4-star hotelspolitical prison and now a weapons museum.with breakf<strong>as</strong>tDay 3 Tirana to VloraWe also include a visit to the archaeological• Meals <strong>as</strong> specifiedsite of Bylis. Continue to Berat for anDrive to Kruja to visit the Skanderbeg Museumovernight stay. • Transfers and transportation(B,L)set inside the restored c<strong>as</strong>tle and wanderthroughoutaround the old Turkish Bazaar, which h<strong>as</strong> aDay 7 Berat to Durres• Sightseeing with English-speakingwonderful selection of authentic antiquesguidesand souvenirs. Drive to Fieri via Ardenica Enjoy a half-day tour of Berat, Albania’s • Entrance fees on sightseeing toursMon<strong>as</strong>tery and tour the archaeological centre second most important museum town, knownof Apollonia. Founded in 558 BC by settlers <strong>as</strong> ‘the city of a thousand windows’ owing9Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Tirana-Budva-Peja-PrishtinaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality11 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-round10This new itinerary connects the cities ofTirana, Budva, Peja and Prishtina by privatetransfers. Time is given in each place foryou to explore at leisure or take optionalexcursions. Not far from Tirana lies Kruja, <strong>as</strong>mall hilltop town with far reaching views anda Turkish Bazaar, ideal for souvenir shopping.From Tirana, you can also take a trip out tothe co<strong>as</strong>tal town of Durres to visit the largestRoman Amphitheatre in the Balkans, <strong>as</strong> well<strong>as</strong> Berat – ‘the city of a thousand windows’.Whilst in Budva you can also visit Kotor, awonderfully preserved medieval town andCetinje, the former capital of Montenegrofor 500 years. En route to Peja, it may bepossible to visit Kol<strong>as</strong>in, a small mountainresort with spectacular views of Bjel<strong>as</strong>icaMountain. This itinerary ends in the capitalof Europe’s newest country – Kosovo, whichdeclared independence in 2008.Day 1 Fly to TiranaFly to Tirana and transfer to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2-3 TiranaFree days in Tirana to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)<strong>Regent</strong> recommends:Escape the intense summer sun by headingfor Tirana’s Grand Park. This scenic greenspace is set against a mountainous backdropand is the ideal place for a picnic, gentle strollor coffee-stop in one of the many restaurantsdotted around.Day 4 Tirana to BudvaTransfer from Tirana to Budva via Podgorica.Check in to hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 5-6 BudvaFree days in Budva to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)Budva is 2,500 years old and one of theoldest settlements on the Adriatic. Spendtime exploring the charming Old Townwith its medieval walls, cobbled lanes andsmall shady piazz<strong>as</strong>. Visit the churches of StTrojica, St Ivan, St Bogorodica and St Sava.Long Mediterranean summers mean lazy,heat-hazed evenings spent sipping deliciouswhite Krstac wine accompanied by freshlycaughtfish.Day 7 Budva to Peja via Kol<strong>as</strong>inTransfer from Budva to Peja via Kol<strong>as</strong>in. Checkin to hotel for overnight stay. (B)Kol<strong>as</strong>in is a delightful town surrounded bythe mountain m<strong>as</strong>sifs of Bjel<strong>as</strong>ica, Sinjavinaand Komovi and is ideally placed to explorethe National Park Biogradska Gora.Day 8 Peja to PrishtinaFree morning to explore Peja before transferto Prishtina. Check in to hotel for 3 nights. (B)Located at the foot of the impressive Bjeshkete Nemuna mountain, Peja’s diverse charactercomes from an ever-changing history ofmedieval Serbs, Ottomans and Communism.On the outskirts of the town lies PećPatriarchate, a beautiful orthodox mon<strong>as</strong>teryand Serbian UNESCO world heritage sitehidden behind high stone walls where itreceives constant KFOR protection.Day 9-10 PrishtinaFree days in Prishtina to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)Kosovo’s capital Prishtina, perfectlyproportioned for a few days’ exploration, iscurrently being regenerated at great speed.Some of its highlights are the jewelleryand costumes on show at the Emin GjikuEthnographic Museum, a beautifullypreserved Ottoman townhouse in the centre,<strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the coffee. Our local partners claimthat the best macchiato in the world can befound in the cafés of Prishtina!Day 11 Tirana to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1095Single room supplement £270Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonGatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers and transportationthroughoutCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
CulturalLandscapes ofAlbania andMacedoniaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality11 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedApr-OctThis new itinerary combines the culturalhighlights of Albania with the beauty ofLake Ohrid in Macedonia. Highlights includewalking in the Albania Alps and spending timein Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra with its numerous Ottomanstyletower houses, wooden balconies andwhite stone w<strong>as</strong>hed walls.You can also choose to extend your holidaywith a beach stay at one of the many hotelslocated on the beach south of Durres.Day 1 Fly to TiranaArrive in Tirana and transfer to Shkodra fora walking tour of the town including a visitto Marubi Museum. Set on the banks of <strong>as</strong>parkling lake at the foot of the wild andrugged mountains of High Albania, Shkodraw<strong>as</strong> once the largest and most flourishingtown in the country and today it remains thecradle of northern Albanian culture. (L,D)Day 2 Shkodra to Theth National ParkDepart for the Albanian Alps and ThethNational Park. Stop at the Edith Durhammemorial and enjoy a walking tour of Thethwith visits to the Grun<strong>as</strong>i Canyon, ThethiWaterfall, Ethnographic Museum, CatholicChurch and the Tower of the Isolation.Overnight in a local guest house. (B,L,D)Day 3 Valley of Theth to Valley ofValbonaEmbark on a 4-5 hour walk in the AlbanianAlps. The gorges that connect these valleysstill divide the mountain communities of northAlbania into clans and tribes. Enjoy a picniclunch en route and overnight in a local guesthouse in Valbona. (B,L,D)Day 4 Valbona to TiranaSail along the Koman Lake p<strong>as</strong>sing thebeautiful scenery of the Albanian Alps. Onarrival at Koman continue to Kruja to visitthe fortress, the medieval bazaar and thehistorical and the ethnographic museums.Continue to Tirana for a sightseeing tour ofthe capital. Overnight in Tirana. (B,L,D)Day 5 Tirana to OhridStop in Elb<strong>as</strong>an and at the 2,400 year oldSelca Tombs en route to Ohrid. After lunch ina local restaurant on the lake shore, continueto Ohrid to overnight. (B,L,D)Day 6 OhridEnjoy a walking tour of Ohrid beginning atthe Square of St Clement with a stop at theLower Gate and the archaeological museumsituated at Robev House. Visit the Church ofSt Sophia, a m<strong>as</strong>terpiece of architecture andfresco paintings, and continue to Plaoshnik tovisit the reconstructed church of St Clement.From here, head towards the Church of StJovan at Kaneo, which w<strong>as</strong> built at the endof the 13th century, and is one of the mostphotographed churches in the Balkans, dueto its beautiful location on the cliffs directlyabove the lake. In the afternoon travel to theMon<strong>as</strong>tery of St Naum, with its beautiful 17thcentury church rising on a hill above the lake.Overnight in Ohrid. (B,L,D)Day 7 Ohrid to Gjirok<strong>as</strong>traDrive back to Albania and visit the city ofKorca, known <strong>as</strong> the centre of culture and arts.The first Albanian language school openedhere in 1887 and today it houses the NationalEducation Museum. Lunch in Permet, a cityon the river Vjosa from which the valley takesits name, then continue to Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra. (B,L,D)Day 8 Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra to LibohoveExplore the ruins of the ancient city ofAntigonea, founded by King Pyrrhus of Epirus(319-272 BC). Continue to the Labova eKryqit church, one of the oldest in Albaniawith a typically Byzantine central domeand marvellous frescoes. After lunch in thevillage of Libohovë return to Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra fora sightseeing tour. (B,L,D)Day 9 Gjirok<strong>as</strong>tra to SarandaVisit the water spring of Blue Eye, the Churchof Mesopotami and the Butrint UNESCO siteen route to Saranda. (B,L,D)Day 10 Saranda to FierHead to Fier driving along the Albanian Riviera,with its stunning Mediterranean beaches. Theroad travels through breathtaking scenery,with mountains rising dramatically up fromthe co<strong>as</strong>t and the deep blue sea shimmering inthe sunlight. Stops include the village of Borshand Borsh C<strong>as</strong>tle, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the Fortressof Ali P<strong>as</strong>ha Tepelena. Continue along theco<strong>as</strong>tline to reach the national park of Llogarawhich takes its name from the 1,000 metremountain p<strong>as</strong>s. Overnight in Fier. (B,L,D)Day 11 Fier to UKEnjoy a visit to the ancient site of Apolloniafounded in 588 BC before continuing on toBerat and then Tirana for the flight back tothe UK. (B,L,D)Prices fromPer person twin-share2 persons travelling £22653-5 persons travelling £1750Single room supplement £225Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways from London Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotels,full board• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours11Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
KosovoThe Inside StoryLandlocked Kosovo, ringed by mountains, is ideal forpioneering travellers keen to discover Europe’s newestcountry which only declared independence in 2008.Discover a country with snow-capped mountains, wide openplains, wildflower meadows, gorges and waterfalls. In thetowns and villages the legacy of the influences of Islam andOrthodox Christianity is evident with a wealth of mosquesand mon<strong>as</strong>teries.The lively capital, Prishtina, is aw<strong>as</strong>h with UN and EUpersonnel and you are guaranteed a warm welcome andlots of fun. Use Prishtina <strong>as</strong> a b<strong>as</strong>e to explore the Serb enclaveof Gracanica where Byzantine frescoes adorn the 12thcentury Orthodox mon<strong>as</strong>tery.Don’t miss the glorious Ottoman city of Prizren, nestled atthe foot of the Sharri Mountains, its narrow cobbled streetscrammed with old stone houses, exquisite mosques andTurkish baths.Storyto tell -LorettaGroveWhy I loveKosovoThere is so much to seeand do in Kosovo – theDecani Mon<strong>as</strong>tery,stunning Rugova Gorge,private family wineries,exploring Prizren OldTown and paying yourrespects at Prekazvillage – the list goeson! Don’t forget tohave a Kosovanfish banquet (fishprepared in sixdifferent ways)in Trofta troutfarm nearIstog.200Kosovan region is inhabitedby the Triballi, a Thracian tribe12th-13th CMany Orthodox churchesand mon<strong>as</strong>teries builtthroughout Serbia1912Serbia regains Kosovofrom Turks followingBalkan Wars1941WWII sees Kosovo fallunder Italian-controlledAlbania1974Kosovo gains autonomy andde-facto self-government inthe Yugoslav constitution1100Kosovo part of theSerbian empire, ruled bythe Nemanjic dyn<strong>as</strong>ty1389Battle of Kosovo heraldsover 500 years of TurkishOttoman rule1918Kosovo becomes part ofKingdom of Serbia1946Yugoslav Federationabsorbs Kosovo
IbarDays like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in KosovoPrishtina City BreaksFrom £460 per person twin-sharePrishtina is perfectly proportionedfor short city breaks and is currentlybeing regenerated at great speed.A must-see is the jewellery andcostumes on show at the EminGjiku Ethnographic Museum, abeautifully preserved Ottomantownhouse in the centre. It’s alsoa great place to sit back and enjoythe coffee culture; it’s claimed thatthe best macchiato in the world canbe found in the cafés of Prishtina!Prices include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t,return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>sdirect from London Gatwick andall airport taxes. Regional add-onsare available.Hotel Victory HHHHTopped with a model ofthe Statue of Liberty, thiscomfortable and peaceful hotelis certainly a distinctive choiceof accommodation. The 42 guestrooms are very comfortable,service is professional and of ahigh standard and the t<strong>as</strong>teful artand furnishings lend the hotel anair of cl<strong>as</strong>s.G<strong>as</strong>tronomic KosovoTo get to the heart of the realKosovo, spend the day winet<strong>as</strong>ting and sampling local food.Head to Rahoveci, where slopinghills and vineyards evoke Tuscany.The first stop is the Stonec<strong>as</strong>tleWinery, the largest winery inthe Balkans. Next, visit VelikaHoca (Hoca Madhe), where youwill experience traditional winemakingat the Bozaj family winery.Enjoy traditional Rahoveci cuisine,including fresh Sharri and goats’cheese, peppers in cream, pogaçebread and the superb RahoveciTava - fresh vegetables baked inclay - of course all w<strong>as</strong>hed downwith delicious local wine.SERBIALeposavicMONTENEGROALBANIAM o k r a G o r aVitomiricaPecDecaniRibBeli DDakovicaIstokKlinaDecanskaIbaZvecanMitovicaSrbicaDurakovacMirOrahovacKliMalisevaZurDrag<strong>as</strong>PrizrenVucitrnGlovovacSilnLaBrad<strong>as</strong>ObilicKosovoPoljeKOSOVOSuvaRekaStimljeStrpceSiUrosevacMusutisteS a r p l a n i n aPodujevoBalPRISTINAJanjevoLipljanPozaranjeLepeKacanikMACEDONIASERBIAViltinaNovoBrdoBinackKrivaGjilaneZegraKamenicaPRISHTINAKosovo - Perfect ForAs one of Europe’s – and indeed the world’s – newest countries, a trip toKosovo will certainly appeal to travellers with a pioneering spirit. Touristfacilities are sparse and UN personnel still roam the streets of the capital city,Prishtina, but this lends Kosovo the air of a raw, undiscovered gem waitingto be discovered and explored.1989Milosevic, now theYugoslav President, stripsKosovo of its autonomy1992War breaks outin the Balkans1999NATO launches airstrikes until Milosevicwithdraws troops2008Kosovo declaresindependencefrom Serbia1987Slobodan Milosevic ralliesKosovo Serbs againstethnic Albanians1991Slovenia, Croatia and Bosniadeclare independence fromYugoslavia1998Serb forces launch brutalcrackdown and engage KosovoLiberation Army in conflict2002Pro-independenceIbrahim Rugovaelected President2009<strong>Regent</strong> launches thefirst ever UK touristgroup to Kosovo13Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
KosovoIn DepthGroup TourTour durationHoliday type8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedDepartures 23- 30 May 2013,19-26 Sep 201314Sightseeing on this small group tour variesfrom verdant steep gorges to beautifullypreserved Ottoman towns. History buffs canreflect on events from the ancient battlefieldof Kosovo to the more recent poignant battlesin 1998, visiting the village of Prekaz. Thistour also allows you to experience first-handthe incredibly friendly and generous natureof the Kosovan people, who embrace Britishtourists with open arms. You can be <strong>as</strong>suredof a warm welcome and stays in good qualityhotels, and the price includes many deliciousmulti-course, waist-expanding meals.The group size is limited to 15 participantsand will be escorted by a tour leader from<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>.Day 1 Fly to TiranaFly to Tirana and transfer to Prizren hotel fortwo night stay. (D)Day 2 PrizrenEnjoy a morning walking tour of Prizren,located on the slopes of the Sharri Mountainsand on the banks of the River Bistrica. Walkup to the ruined c<strong>as</strong>tle of Prizren for <strong>as</strong>pectacular view of the town below. The townbo<strong>as</strong>ts an attractive Ottoman Old Town andis well known for its gold and silver filigreecraftsmen. Highlights include visiting theHamam, the Museum of Prizreni League, theEthnographic Museum, the Helveti Tekke,Sinia P<strong>as</strong>ha Mosque, the oldest tree in Kosovoand the church of Our Lady of Ljeviš. (B,L)Day 3 Prizren to PrishtinaDrive to Prishtina visiting the sacred villageof Letnica en route. Nestled in the mountains,this semi-deserted village is transformed eachAugust for the Fe<strong>as</strong>t of the Black Madonnawhen thousands visit the place where thefamous nun received her calling. In 1917,7-year-old Agnesa Bojaxhiu w<strong>as</strong> visitingLetnica from her home in nearby Skopje -she later became known <strong>as</strong> Mother Teresa,whose work with the poor in Calcutta broughther international fame. A stop is made atGracanica to see a superb example of a14th century Serb Orthodox Church beforearriving in Prishtina for a two night stay. (B,L)Day 4 PrishtinaEmbark on a walking tour of Prishtina, visitingthe National Library, Prishtina University andthe Museum of Kosovo. We see the Houseof Kosovo Academy, Carshi Mosque (BazaarMosque) and the Emin Gjiku EthnographicMuseum housed in a typical Ottomantownhouse en route. In the afternoon, travelto the Archaeological site of Upliana, onceone of the most important Roman cities inthe Balkans. (B,D)Day 5 Prishtina to PejaHead west to the Memorial Complex ofthe Battle of Kosovo (Gazimestan). Visitthe Mausoleum – the final resting place ofSultan Murat Tyrbe following his <strong>as</strong>s<strong>as</strong>sinationduring the Battle of Kosova (1389 AD). Makea poignant stop at the legendary village ofPrekaz, where the attack by Serbian militarypolice w<strong>as</strong> launched on 5th March1998.After lunch and tour of the Trout farm atIstog, continue to Peja to overnight. (B,L)Day 6 Peja to GjakovaDrive to the stunning Rugova Gorge, wherethe peaks of the Accursed Mountains,straddling the border with Montenegro,rise up to 2,560 metres and spectaculargranite cliffs climb almost vertically for over1,000 metres. Visit Peć Patriarch, once theseat of the Serbian Orthodox Church. Thiscomplex of medieval churches is packed withfrescoes and overlooks a spectacular jaggedgorge. Continue further up Rugova Gorgeto Drelaj, a small mountain cheese-makingfactory. Here, t<strong>as</strong>te deliciously fresh Rugovacheese before walking to the family farm ofMr Osman Shala for a welcome refreshmentof mountain honey and cool Rugova water.Stop at a Kull<strong>as</strong> - unique traditional stonehouse - before continuing to Gjakova for atwo night stay. (B,L)Day 7 GjakovaEnjoy a tour of Gjakova with visits to thelocal Bekt<strong>as</strong>hi Community, the Old Marketand Hadum Aga Mosque. In the afternoon,explore the Rahoveci area and indulge in somewine-t<strong>as</strong>ting; visit families who produce theirown wine, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> “Podrumi i Vjetër”, theoldest winery in Kosovo. Tonight, enjoy atraditional Gjakova fe<strong>as</strong>t. (B,L)Day 8 Tirana to UKTransfer to Tirana Airport with a picnic lunchen route. (B,L)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1295Single room supplement £99Prices include• Flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with BritishAirways from London Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3 & 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
BalkanCapitals –Sofia, Skopje& PrishtinaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality10 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis individual itinerary for 2013 combinesthese three lively capitals. Start in Sofia,an attractive and still relatively unknownEuropean city of tree lined boulevards andbalconied buildings designed by 19th centuryRussian and Viennese architects, beforemoving on to Skopje. Macedonia’s capital isan ideal city to explore on foot. Stroll acrossthe Stone Bridge, built in the 15th centuryupon Roman foundations, into the old town,where national restaurants, museums,galleries and bars await exploration. The finalstop is Prishtina, Kosovo’s young, friendlyand dynamic capital. See 15th-century FatihMosque in the Old Town and visit KosovoMuseum. You can also join the numerouslocals and explore the paths and forest trailsof leafy Germia in the hills to the e<strong>as</strong>t of town.Travel between each city is on local coachesbut we can also quote for private transfers bycar. Longer stays can be arranged and we canquote for 4/5-star hotels if required.Day 1 Fly to SofiaFly to Sofia, transfer to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2-3 SofiaFree days to explore Sofia. Bulgaria’s capitalcity h<strong>as</strong> retrieved its historic charm andposition <strong>as</strong> an exotic, less visited corner ofE<strong>as</strong>tern Europe. Sofia bo<strong>as</strong>ts a colourfuland ancient collection of churches, mosquesand synagogues; the most famous of whichis the Alexander Nevsky Church, whichh<strong>as</strong> magnificent frescoes. Other religiousbuildings include the Boyana Church, BanyiB<strong>as</strong>h Mosque and the Sofia Synagogue, oneof the most beautiful in the world. (B)Day 4 Sofia to SkopjeMorning at leisure depending on time of busto Skopje (there are four departures daily andjourney time is around 5 hours). Arrive Skopjeand transfer to hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 5-6 SkopjeFree days to explore Skopje, where youcan spend hours meandering in the narrowstreets of the Old Town exploring little shops,mosques with ceramic tiled interiors, and theoutdoor bazaar and Hammam that date backto the Ottoman period. (B)Day 7 Skopje to PrishtinaMorning at leisure depending on time ofbus to Prishtina (there are daily departuresand journey time is around 4 hours). ArrivePrishtina and transfer to hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 8-9 PrishtinaFree days to explore Prishtina, a young,vibrant capital, where English is one of thethree official languages. Some of Prishtina’shighlights are the jewellery and costumeson show at the Emin Gjiku EthnographicMuseum, a beautifully preserved Ottomantownhouse in the centre, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the coffee;the best macchiato in the world can be foundin the cafés of Prishtina or so they say! (B)Day 10 Prishtina to UKFree morning before flight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £875Single room supplement £270Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow/return to London Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Coach tickets, Sofia to Skopje andSkopje to Prishtina• All arrival transfers• Departure transfer from Prishtinato Tirana AirportPrices exclude• Other departure transfers15Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
MacedoniaThe Inside StoryThe old and the new rub shoulders in Macedonia’s capital,Skopje, where black-clad Orthodox priests mingle withtrendy teenagers clutching state-of-the art gadgets. TheOttoman influence is apparent with the Old Bazaar andthe slim minarets of the mosques.Away from Skopje you will encounter a land of gleaminglakes and rivers, brooding mountains, remote stone villagesand stunning mon<strong>as</strong>teries. Sleepy Ohrid comes alive in thesummer <strong>as</strong> it draws in visitors to its idyllic location on LakeOhrid with its backdrop of dark blue mountains.Get some fresh air by hiking through the forestedwilderness of Macedonia’s national parks and soak up thealpine views. Head for the town of Bitola peppered withmosques, Catholic and Orthodox churches and a beautifullypreserved Turkish bazaar. Here you can take in RomanHeraclea with its baths and mosaics and the remote hilltopTreskavec mon<strong>as</strong>tery.Storyto tell -AndreaGodfreyWhy I loveMacedeoniaOn my l<strong>as</strong>t visit I travelledto the e<strong>as</strong>tern town ofBerova in cold, winteryMarch. This is a verypopular place amongstthe Macedonians for itscool mountain air. I lovedwandering around andvisiting the craftspeople in their ownhomes – I broughtknitted socksfrom smilinggrandmothers,admired intricatewood carving andt<strong>as</strong>ted deliciousMaleshevoregional cheese.356 BCPhilip II of Macedoniaand Olympi<strong>as</strong> give birth toAlexander the Great in Pella323 BCAlexander the Great dies;his empire stretches fromSerbia to Pakistan800B<strong>as</strong>il I begins the Macedoniandyn<strong>as</strong>ty in Byzantium1913Ottoman rule ends after fivecenturies. Macedonia is partitionedbetween Serbia, Bulgaria and Greece339 BCAt the age of 17, Alexanderleads the Macedonian armyto victory over the Illyrians400The Romans make Sculpi, justoutside modern day Skopje,capital of the Dardania province1910Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu,later known <strong>as</strong> MotherTeresa, is born in Skopje
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in MacedoniaDay 1 - SkopjeTake a day to explore Macedonia’scapital, Skopje. Visit the Church ofHoly Salvation, Old Bazaar, KaleFortress, the Museum of Macedonia,Mustapha P<strong>as</strong>ha Mosque and theDaut P<strong>as</strong>ha baths.Day 2 - StobiEnjoy a leisurely boat ride throughthe Matka canyon and visit NadVrelo Cave before continuing to theancient city of Stobi with its 2nd-Century amphitheatre.Day 3 - BitolaTake a short walk through the bazaarin Prilep before continuing to Bitola,Macedonia’s second largest town.Bitola is an extraordinary mixtureof old and new; a meeting point ofdifferent cultures and civilisations.Day 4 - OhridExplore the sleepy town of Ohridwith its Byzantine churches andcharming old town. Head to thechurch of St. John at Kaneo andmarvel at the spectacular panoramicviews of Lake Ohrid.Day 5 - Galicica NationalPark and St. NaumSee the villages of Velestovo,Konjsk and Elsani, all situated inthe stunning Galicica National Park.Visit the beautiful mon<strong>as</strong>tery of St.Naum, famous for its miraculoushealing powers.Day 6 - StrugaHead to the scenic Struga, knownfor its wall of water where the BlakDrum River flows out of Lake Ohrid,before continuing to the canyon ofRiver Radika to visit the St JohnBigorski mon<strong>as</strong>tery.Day 7 - MavrovoExplore the breathtaking MavrovoNational Park, where the highestpeaks of Macedonia can be found.In the winter, the forested slopesprovide some of the best skiing inthe Balkans.Call a <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> Macedoni<strong>as</strong>pecialist to tailor-make the perfectitinerary for you, or <strong>as</strong>k about citybreaks in Skopje.SERBIASKOPJEKOSOVOSar planinaTetovoBrvenicaBogovinjeVrapcisteDebarDrugovaStogovoZaj<strong>as</strong>Suva GoraGostivarCrna GoraSKOPJEZelinoSopisteJ a c u p i c aVardorMACEDONIAOslomejZelznikovoKicevoPl<strong>as</strong>nicaLipkovoCucer SandevoKumanovoVelesC<strong>as</strong>kaKavadarciDolneniPrilepSveti NikoleRosomanProbistipDunjeLozovoKriva PalancaRankovceGradskaKratovoKocaniZrnovciPehcevoKarbinciBerovoStipNegotinoDemirKapitjaDelcevoRadovisBULGARIAKonceV<strong>as</strong>ilevaStrumicaNovo SeloB<strong>as</strong>ilovoBogdanciGevgelijaValandovoDojranLakeDojranALBANIAStrugaLakeOhridOhridLakePrespaBabaMagilaBitolaKajmakcalan2521 mG R E E C EMacedonia - Perfect ForMacedonia is packed full of ancient relics, historical sites and beautifullandscapes, but is far less busy than neighbouring Greece or Bulgaria. Sovisitors interested in tracing the marks left by empires – from Alexander theGreat to the Romans to the Ottomans – without having to elbow their waythrough the tourist hordes, will find this unspoilt tre<strong>as</strong>ure absolutely ideal.1929The Kingdom isrenamed Yugoslavia1945The Yugoslav socialistfederation is establishedwith Tito <strong>as</strong> president1991Macedonia declaresindependence2005Becomes a candidatefor EU membership1918-19World War I ends, Macedoniabecomes part of the Kingdom ofSerbs, Croats & Slovenes1941Germany invadesYugoslavia19801993Tito dies, heralding a wave ofJoins the UN under the namenationalism among the federation’sFormer Yugoslav Republic of17republics, including Macedonia MacedoniaCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
ExploreMacedoniaGroup TourTour durationHoliday type8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedDeparture 10-17 May 201318With a history spanning the Roman, Byzantine,Ottoman and Yugoslav empires, Macedoniaoffers a f<strong>as</strong>cinating architectural heritage andmix of cultures with Slavic, Albanian, Turkishand Mediterranean influences in abundance.On this group tour, we enjoy wine t<strong>as</strong>tingin Demir Kapija and a visit to the village ofKurbinovo, where the 12th century churchof St George can be found. Whilst the churchitself is a modest building, it houses magnificentfrescoes painted in 1191. Time is given toexplore the archaeological sites of Heracleaand Stobi, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the main cities of Bitola,Ohrid and of course Macedonia’s capital city,Skopje. This tour is on a full-board b<strong>as</strong>is, so alsoincludes many delicious waist-expanding meals!The group size is limited to 15 participants andwill be escorted by a tour leader from <strong>Regent</strong><strong>Holidays</strong>. Also a bonus for our single travellers,there is no single room supplement.Day 1 Fly to SkopjeFly to Skopje and transfer to hotel for twonight stay. Take a walking tour of Skopjeincluding a visit to the memorial house ofMother Teresa and the old bazaar. With itsmix of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture,and hundreds of little craft shops, the oldbazaar remains one of the biggest and themost colourful centres of its kind. (D)Day 2 SkopjeVisit the Museum of the City of Skopje,which w<strong>as</strong> formerly the most beautifulrailway station in the Balkans before beingpartly destroyed by an earthquake. Takethe cable-car to the Millennium Cross for apanoramic view of Skopje before travellingto the village of Gorno Nerezi on the slopesof Mount Vodno to visit Sveti Pantelejmon,one of the most important monuments inthe area. The mon<strong>as</strong>tery and church werebuilt in 1164 and the frescoes are among thebest Byzantine paintings in existence. We alsovisit magnificent Matka Canyon where thevertical rocks house ancient temples, medievalchurches and mon<strong>as</strong>teries. (B,L,D)Day 3 Skopje to OhridDrive to Tetovo where sightseeing includesthe Tetovo Painted (Aladza) Mosque, originallybuilt in 1459. Continue towards Ohrid via theMavrovo National Park, to stop for lunch.Visit St John Bigorski Mon<strong>as</strong>tery, built in1020 by Archbishop Jovan, where one of themost valuable tre<strong>as</strong>ures is the wood-carvediconost<strong>as</strong>is, considered to be one of the mostbeautiful and valuable in the Orthodox religion.Arrive in Ohrid for three night stay. (B,L,D)Day 4 OhridEnjoy a city tour of Ohrid including a visit tothe City Museum and St Sophia Cathedral,built in 1037 and named after the great churchof Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. One ofthe day’s highlights is a visit to 9th century StClement Mon<strong>as</strong>tery, one of the oldest Slavicmonuments of culture. After lunch, visit StJohn the Theologian, whose buildings andfrescoes date back to the 13th century. Thechurch is located on the beautiful shore ofLake Ohrid, on a high rock above the formerfishermen’s settlement of Kaneo. (B,L,D)Day 5 OhridTravel to the village of Elshani, located in theNational Park Galicica and overlooking LakeOhrid. Take a walk through the village andvisit a local house for the chance to join anordinary Macedonian family to cook a meal,before trying the traditional Macedonian foodand local rakija and wine. (B,L,D)Day 6 Ohrid to BitolaTake a sightseeing tour of Bone Bay andRoman C<strong>as</strong>trum. The ‘city on water’ inGradiste w<strong>as</strong> inhabited from 1200 until800 BC and the life of people in prehistorictimes is illustrated throughout the museum.Continue to the village of Kurbinovo to visit StGeorge church with its well preserved 12thcentury frescoes, before arriving in Bitola, oneof the most charming Macedonian cities witha rich history and diverse mixture of cultures,for an overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 7 Bitola to SkopjeVisit 4th century Heraclea Lyncestis, animportant settlement from the Hellenisticperiod to the Middle Ages, which w<strong>as</strong> foundedby Philip II of Macedon. Several monumentsfrom Roman times remain, including a portico,thermae (baths), an amphitheatre and anumber of b<strong>as</strong>ilic<strong>as</strong>. Continue to the wineregion and visit the Demir Kapija winery tot<strong>as</strong>te five types of local wine. In the afternoon,visit the Roman city of Stobi, one of the largestarchaeological sites in Macedonia. Overnightin Skopje. (B,L,D)Day 8 Skopje to UKTransfer to the airport for flight back to theUK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1250Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withCroatian Airlines (via Zagreb) fromGatwick• All airport taxes and surcharges• Accommodation in 3 & 4-star hotels• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• Transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Skopje &Lake OhridTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis twin-centre individual itinerary ideallycombines the historic and cultural attractionsof the capital city with charming Lake Ohrid,one of the world’s oldest lakes. Macedonia’scapital Skopje is a ple<strong>as</strong>ant city in which tospend a few days and explore its famousbazaar and see intricate wooden carvediconost<strong>as</strong>is in the Church of the Holy Saviour.For us, the real highlight of Macedonia isits beautiful countryside and stunningmon<strong>as</strong>teries; an ideal b<strong>as</strong>e to explore theseis picturesque Ohrid. The town of Ohrid, inthe southernmost part of Macedonia, w<strong>as</strong>the cradle of Slavonic literacy, which brothersCyril and Methodius, and later their disciples- St. Clement and St. Naum - spread to otherSlav peoples from the Ohrid Literary Schoolwhich w<strong>as</strong> the first Slavonic University inthe Balkans, long before Bologna. Ohrid is acity-museum with numerous archaeologicaltre<strong>as</strong>ures such <strong>as</strong> early Christian b<strong>as</strong>ilic<strong>as</strong> andan abundance of churches.This itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>ed on good 3-starand boutique hotels in Skopje and Ohrid.Transfers are all by private car, although forthose on a budget we can arrange travelbetween the two cities by public buses.Day 1 Fly to SkopjeFly to Skopje and transfer to Hotel Duvet for3 night stay.Day 2-3 SkopjeFree time in Skopje to explore the splendoursof this historic crossroads – wander aroundthe old bazaar, see the Church of the HolySalvation and the famous Stone Bridgewhich, with its elegant thirteen arches, joinsthe Old Turkish and Muslim quarter to thenorth and the Orthodox Macedonians tothe south. (B)Day 4 Skopje to OhridTransfer to Ohrid by car and check in to HotelVila Sveta Sofija for 4 night stay. (B)Day 5-7 OhridFree days in Ohrid to explore at leisurethe picturesque town and the lake or bookoptional excursions to Kalishta Village orBitola, where you can see old mosques andchurches of Kalishta village. Relax and samplethe local wines and freshly caught Ohrid trout.The lake is the deepest in the Balkans and isunder the protection of UNESCO. (B)Day 8 Skopje to UKMorning transfer to Skopje Airport for flightback to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £675Single room supplement £95Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>swith Wizz Air direct from Luton• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3 & 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers by private carHotel Duvet Center / SkopjeA cosy hotel <strong>as</strong> the name suggests, with 23t<strong>as</strong>tefully decorated rooms and friendly staff,who ensure your stay is enjoyable. It openedin October 2012 and the location couldn’t bebetter, just a short walk from the Old Townand the main city square.Hotel Vila Sveta Sofija / OhridThis is a wonderful boutique hotel locatedin the centre of Ohrid, near the lake and St.Sofija Church. There are only 6 rooms, all ofwhich are beautifully decorated. The hotelh<strong>as</strong> two dining rooms and a bar with a spaciousterrace, ideal for relaxing in the sun.19Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
SerbiaThe Inside StoryVisit Serbia and b<strong>as</strong>k in a warm welcome at every turn <strong>as</strong>you discover a country reinventing itself. Those in the knowappreciate Belgrade’s great architecture, museums, galleries,outstanding restaurants and pulsating nightlife. Away fromthe capital, f<strong>as</strong>t-flowing rivers, mountain peaks, woodlandtrails and Orthodox mon<strong>as</strong>teries hidden in wooded valleysawait the arrival of visitors to this relatively undiscovereddestination.Elegant Novi Sad sits on the banks of the Danube with thepicturesque Petrovaradinski Fort overlooking the river, Nisbo<strong>as</strong>ts an imposing Ottoman fort and Subotica is home toattractive Hungarian-style Art Nouveau architecture. Thefertile plains of Vojvodina sweep across the country, while themountainous region to the south is home to rugged villages,ski resorts and hiking trails. For jaw-dropping scenery, don’tmiss the Djerdap Canyon, where the once tranquil Danube istransformed into a thundering torrent <strong>as</strong> it squeezes throughthe narrow gorge.Storyto tell -AndreaGodfreyWhy I loveSerbiaThe Roman site ofViminacium never fails toimpress me. This grandcapital of the ancientRoman province Moesia islocated 12 kilometres fromPožarevac. They haverecently built a smallhotel here and for thetime team enthusi<strong>as</strong>tsout there youcan even workalongside thearchaeologists.There is alwayssomethingnew to see onevery visit <strong>as</strong> theexcavation is anongoing process.700-800Slav tribes settle into presentdayBalkan territories and<strong>as</strong>similate the Illyrians15-18th CSerbia part ofOttoman Empire1918End of WWI; Kingdom of Serbs,Croats & Slovenes – laterrenamed Yugoslavia – is formed1989Slobodan Milosevicbecomes Presidentof Serbia1389Invading Ottoman forcesdecimate the Serbs in theBattle of Kosovo1817Serbia becomes anautonomous principality1945Serbia becomes part of SocialistFederal Republic of Yugoslaviaunder President Tito
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect g<strong>as</strong>tronomy break in SerbiaDay 1 - BelgradeDiscover the Rakia Brandy Workshop,where you will learn all aboutSerbia’s national drink, includinghow it is prepared and how best toserve it. Enjoy dinner at a traditionalSerbian restaurant with live nationalmusic and food from the grill.Day 2 - Belgrade to Novi SadShop for local produce at thebustling Zeleni Venac vegetablemarket, before driving to Novi fora rural cooking cl<strong>as</strong>s at a small farmusing the vegetables bought earlierin the day. Learn the art of makingNorth Serbian pies and sweetsbefore preparing ‘breakf<strong>as</strong>t cheese’for the next morning.Day 3 - Novi SadSit down to a farmhouse breakf<strong>as</strong>tof fresh pies and cheese preparedthe previous night before taking <strong>as</strong>ightseeing tour of Novi Sad. Stopfor some traditional cake at thePetrovaradin fortress and continueto a typical Serbian home in SremskiKarlovci for lunch. In the eveningenjoy a workshop of wine t<strong>as</strong>ting,dinner and bread baking lessons.Day 4 - Z<strong>as</strong>avicaNational ReserveTravel to Z<strong>as</strong>avica – a unique naturereserve containing a diverse rangeof wildlife including many rare andendangered species. Spend themorning fishing on a lake in thereserve before preparing your ‘catchof the day’ at a morning fish soupcookery cl<strong>as</strong>s. In the afternoon, enjoya further workshop introducingrecipes using freshwater fish.Day 5 - NisHead to Serbia’s third largest city,Nis, for a sightseeing tour beforejoining a local druid for a uniquecooking cl<strong>as</strong>s where you will preparelunch using rare species of herbs,vegetables and pepper. Continueto Kniazevac for a cheese makingworkshop followed by a traditional,rustic dinner at a private farm.Call a <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> Serbi<strong>as</strong>pecialist to tailor-make the perfectitinerary for you, or <strong>as</strong>k aboutBelgrade city breaks.HUNGARYSuboticaSentaDanubeCROATIABELGRADESomborVrb<strong>as</strong>BOSNIA &HERZEGOVINABackaPalankaRumaLesnicaZvornikPovlen1.346UziceBecejTisaLazarevacPribojNovi SadKikindaIndijaZemunBELGRADESabacValjevoGornjiMilanovacCacakSERBIAPrijepoljeSjenicaZrenjaninNoviPazarVrsacPancevoVelikaPlanaKragujevacZapadna MoravaSmederevoPozarevacMoravicaJagodinaParacinKrusevacROMANIABeljanica1336 m.KajecarProkupljeLeskovacKladovoBeli TimokAleksinacNisBULGARIAMidzor2169 m.Vl<strong>as</strong>otinceMONTENEGROKOSOVOVranjeBujanovacPresevoMACEDONIASerbia - Perfect ForSerbia is a great destination for travellers looking to combine exciting, moderncity life with more traditional, folkloric elements out in the countryside. Fromvibrant Belgrade with its many bars, riverside cafés and romantic boulevardsto old bucolic villages where locals decked in traditional dress proudly performfolk songs and dances, Serbia is a place of contr<strong>as</strong>ts. One of the best ways tosample Serbia is with a food or wine tour, so those looking for a g<strong>as</strong>tronomicdiscovery will be well at home here.1992Montenegro and Serbiaform Federal Republic ofYugoslavia2000Milosevic overthrownafter accusations of riggingpresidential election2006Serbia declares itselfindependent sovereignsuccessor state to Union ofSerbia and Montenegro1991Slovenia, Macedonia,Croatia and Bosnia breakaway from Yugoslavia1991-99Bloody tide of inter-ethnicconflict culminates inNATO air strikes2002Slobodan Milosevic trial forcharges of genocide and warcrimes begins in The Hague2011European Commissionendorses Serbia for EUcandidate status21Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
MontenegroThe Inside StoryCome and discover one of the world’s newest countrieswhere you will find a ravishing co<strong>as</strong>tline fringed with sandybeaches and backed by dramatic mountains. Olive treecoveredfoothills overlook the turquoise Adriatic Sea tocreate picture perfect vist<strong>as</strong>.Take in the walled co<strong>as</strong>tal towns of Budva and HercegNovi with their narrow streets, tiny squares and attractivechurches. Kotor, another walled town dominated bymountains which sweep down to the sea, sits at the headof southern Europe’s deepest fjord. Head into DurmitorNational Park – Montenegro’s premier ski resort in thewinter – with its mountain lakes, deep gorges and denselyforested peaks. Marvel at the cliff-top Ostrog mon<strong>as</strong>terywhere pilgrims regularly make the arduous climb to pray.Long stretches of sandy beaches, particularly around Ulcinj,and tiny picturesque coves frame this mountainous countrystarting at Kotor fjord close to the Croatian border rightdown to the border with Albania.Storyto tell -EllieMarrWhy I loveMontenegroNot far from Ulcinj, closeto the Albania border,you can find woodenhouses built on stiltsoverlooking the tranquilBojana River. Manyof these dwellings arerestaurants which servethe most amazing fish,and the home-maderaki isn’t too badeither! Althoughif you arrive at thenudist beach you’vegone too far…8th-9th CSlav tribes settle in territoriesof present day Montenegro1798Acknowledged <strong>as</strong> anindependent principality1918Becomes part of the Kingdomof Serbs, Croats and Slovenes –later renamed Yugoslavia15th-18th CAbsorbed by OttomanEmpire but retainssubstantial autonomy1878Independence recognisedunder international treaties1945Becomes part of the SocialistFederal Republic of Yugoslaviaunder President Tito
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in MontenegroDay 1 - BudvaExplore the Old Town of Budva withits shady small piazz<strong>as</strong> and quaintcobbled lanes or simply relax on oneof the many beaches. Long summerevenings can be spent sipping crispKrstac white wine accompanied byfreshly-caught fish after a busy dayvisiting the churches of St Trojica, StIvan, St Bogorodic and St Sava.Day 2 - Budva to Herceg NoviEn route to Herceg Novi, stop off todiscover Per<strong>as</strong>t and the renownedLady of the Rock Church.Day 3 - Herceg Novi to KotorExplore the attractive co<strong>as</strong>tal townof Herceg Novi. Wander throughthe small alleyways and stairways touncover the Orthodox and Catholicchurches which look out over theglistening Adriatic.Day 4 - KotorThe charming old city of Kotor, aUNESCO World Heritage site,can be entered through one ofthree gates in the ancient walls.The historic buildings are crisscrossedwith narrow streets andsquares which contain gems such<strong>as</strong> the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon(Sveti Tripun), a monument ofRoman culture and one of the mostrecognisable symbols of the city.Day 5 - Kotor to Kol<strong>as</strong>inSpend time in Cetinje, the oldMontenegrin capital and birthplaceof the country. The CetinjeMon<strong>as</strong>tery, originally built in 1701,and the royal residence of Patar IIPetrovic Njegos should be explored.Continue to Kol<strong>as</strong>in, a delightfultown surrounded by the mountainm<strong>as</strong>sifs of Bjel<strong>as</strong>ica, Sinjavina andKomovi.Day 6 - Biogradska GoraNational ParkBjel<strong>as</strong>ica is the gem of the regionwith its v<strong>as</strong>t forests, rippling riversand streams, glacial fed lakes,mountain peaks and meadowscovered with wild flowers in thespring or deep snow in the winter.Nestled amongst the huge treesin the park’s wide glacial b<strong>as</strong>in liesBiogradsko Jezero, the best-knownand largest lake in the park.BOSNIA &HERZEGOVINASulaPljevljaSERBIACrkvicaCROATIAVilusiOrjenBokaKotorskaPluzineDobrotaHerceg-Novi Tivat KotorPivaDurmitor2522 mS i n j a v i n aMONTENEGROBudvaAdriaticSeaKlicevoZabljakNiksicDanilovgradPrekornicaZetaTolosiGornjaGoricaCetinjeVirpazanBarSavnikPetrovacna MoruMoracaLakeScutariDurdevicaTaraTaraTuziGolubovciGrabDoljaniPODGORICANedakusiMojkovakKol<strong>as</strong>inZatonALBANIABijelo PolijeBeraneBrezajevicaGusinjeAndrijevicaPlavVojnoSeloNorthAlbanianAlpsTrpeziBudimljaHaflaRozajeKOSOVOPODGORICAUlcinjMontenegro - Perfect ForThose f<strong>as</strong>cinated by the history of the Balkans region will appreciateMontenegro’s well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage sites, charmingold towns and unspoilt mountain landscapes. Kotor Bay offers the best ofboth worlds, bo<strong>as</strong>ting cultural landmarks <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> tranquil beaches and arelaxed coffee culture. For the adrenaline junkie in you, try white water raftingon the Tara Canyon – Europe’s deepest river canyon.1991Pro-independence MiloDjukanovic becomesPrime Minister1999Abandons dinar infavour of German mark2002Montenegroadopts the euro2006Declares independence, Serbiaresponds by declaring itself theindependent sovereign successor stateto the Union of Serbia and Montenegro1992Montenegro joins Serbiain Federal Republic ofYugoslavia2000Milosevic ousted bypro-Western reformersin Belgrade2002Government collapse overthe new union with Serbia23Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Bosnia-HerzegovinaThe Inside StoryBosnia-Herzegovina h<strong>as</strong> firmly established itself on thetourist trail with visitors drawn by dramatic alpine scenery,thundering rivers, ancient towns, hidden mon<strong>as</strong>teries,medieval fortresses and isolated villages. In a countrywhere Byzantine and Ottoman civilisations meet Romanand Austro-Hungarian influences, you can find mosques,synagogues, Orthodox churches and Catholic cathedralsjust a stone’s throw away from each other.Wander along the narrow cobbled streets of B<strong>as</strong>carsijain Sarajevo and join the locals for a strong Turkish coffee.Visit striking Mostar and watch divers leap off its rebuiltlandmark bridge over the Neretva River. See the pilgrimsflocking to Medjugorge and the site where an apparitionof the Virgin Mary appeared.Step back in time in sleepy Kraljeva Sutjeska, probe thecatacombs in Jajce which were used <strong>as</strong> shelter during therecent war, hike along trails through the glorious DinaricAlps and stumble across remote villages and mon<strong>as</strong>terieson Bjel<strong>as</strong>nica Mountain, where the way of life h<strong>as</strong> changedlittle for its residents.Storyto tell -AndreaGodfreyWhy I loveBosnia-HerzegovinaI loved my visit to Blagaj,a lovely village at thesource of the River Buna.The River Buna flowsout of a 200m cliff andbeside this gurglingwater is the impressiveTekke, a DervishMon<strong>as</strong>tery. EvenI managed theenergetic climbto StepjanGrad, a ruinedfortressoverlookingthe village, forsplendid sunsetviews.7th CSlavs settle in territories ofmodern day Bosnia1463Ottoman Turks conquerBosnian region1914Bosnian Serb student, GavriloPrincip, <strong>as</strong>s<strong>as</strong>sinates ArchdukeFranz Ferdinand in Sarajevo1941Annexed by pro-HitlerCroatian puppet state9th CControl of Bosnia splitbetween Serbia andCroatia1878Given to Austro-HungarianEmpire <strong>as</strong> a colony1918Austro-Hungary Empirecollapses; Bosnia becomespart of Kingdom of Serbs,Croats and Slovenes1945Liberated by Tito; becomesrepublic within YugoslavSocialist Federation
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in Bosnia-HerzegovinaSarajevo City BreaksFrom £430pp twin-shareTake comfortable shoes <strong>as</strong> Sarajevois a city you won’t want to stopexploring. Start in the Old Town,Baščaršija with its narrow cobbledstreets crammed with shops sellingcopper, leather and souvenirs.Find a mosque, Orthodox church,Catholic cathedral and a synagogueall within walking distance of eachother. Spend time in the eveningsdrinking raki and eating deliciouscrumbly burek.Prices include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t,return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withCroatian Airlines via Zagreb fromLondon Heathrow or Gatwick, andall airport taxes.Ada Hotel HHHExperience true hospitality whenyou stay at the tiny Ada Hotel. Herethe helpful English-speaking staffwill ensure you get the most out ofyour stay. Just 5 minutes from theOld Town and with lovely views of thesurrounding hills, this friendly pensionh<strong>as</strong> seven light and characterfulrooms. Even though it is at the heartof the city, it is in a quiet location andclose to public transport.Loving LukomirOne of our favourite excursionsfrom Sarajevo is to Lukomir. Thisis the highest and most isolatedvillage in Bosnia-Herzegovina andis only accessible for six monthsof the year by car. However, ifyou fancy putting on a pair of skisor snowshoes then it can be anall-year-round destination! Thehouses are typical of those foundin traditional Bosnian villages. Thekitchen is at the heart of the housewith its stove, coffee table, smiling‘grandmothers’ and the ubiquitousTurkish coffee. Enjoy a heartyhome-made meal at one of thefamilies’ homes before wanderingover to the edge of the village, wherethe views of the Rakitnica Canyonare truly impressive.CROATIACazinBihacBosanskiNoviUnaBosanskaKrupaDrvarSamaBosanskaGradiskaPrijedorD i n a r i c A l p sBosanskoGrahovoKljucMrkonjicGradJajceVrbusSavaBanja LukaTeslicTravnikVitezDonjiVakufBosanskiBrodDerventaDobojModricaBosnaZenicaGradacacMaglajGracanicaLukavacVisokoBosanskiSamarBOSNIA &HERZEGOVINABijeljinaTuzlaZvornikVl<strong>as</strong>enicaBreckoSERBIASrebenicaSARAJEVOCROATIALivnoJablanicaVran2074 mKonjicSARAJEVOFocaDrinaGorazdeNeretvaMostarNevesinjeAdriatic SeaCapljinaStolacMONTENEGROBilecaTrebinjeCROATIABosnia-Herzegovina - Perfect ForBosnia-Herzegovina h<strong>as</strong> been through more than most European countries inrecent years, so those wishing to experience a country that is restoring whatmade it great while at the same time confidently re-inventing itself , will finda trip here a true eye-opener. The revitalised charms of Mostar evoke theBosnia-Herzegovina of old, long before bloody conflict gripped the region,while up-and-coming Sarajevo is a buzzing testament to ethnic diversity andsocial regeneration.1991Communism falls; Bosnia-Herzegovina forms a coalitiongovernment of nationalistSerbs, Muslims and Croats1995Bosnian Serbs m<strong>as</strong>sacrethousands of Muslims atSrebenica2001Hague war crimes tribunalfinds Radislav Krstic guiltyof genocide2011Serb, Croat and Muslimpolitical leaders agree onformation of a new centralgovernment1993Conflict grips the region,culminating in partialdestruction of Mostar1996Dayton peace accord createstwo entities; one for BosnianMuslims and Croats, theother for Serbs2004Mostar’s bridge is restoredand reopened25Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Sarajevo& MostarTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality6 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis twin-centre itinerary gives you a t<strong>as</strong>teof urban Bosnia-Herzegovina with the twomain cities - the capital Sarajevo and Mostar.Although the cities are cosmopolitan, they stillpreserve pristine landscapes of mountains(Sarajevo) and rocks and water (Mostar onthe Neretva River).This suggested individual itinerary usesthe frequent local bus connections leavingyou free to organise your time at yourown pace. Admire the change in sceneryfrom green and misty Bosnia to open andsunny Herzegovina.Day 1 Fly to SarajevoFly to Sarajevo and check in to hotel for 2nights. (B)Day 2 SarajevoExplore this f<strong>as</strong>cinating and complex city.Visit the oriental B<strong>as</strong>carsija, stop for Turkishcoffee at Halvat café or at Morica Han, shopfor handicrafts or try the local beer at Pivnica(the old Sarajevska brewery). (B)Optional Tour of Sarajevo Environs:After your free morning, drive to thesurrounding hills and villages for a panoramicview of the city. We include a traditional lunchat Biban Restaurant set amongst the hillsabove the city. Also included are some warrelatedsites, such <strong>as</strong> the Tunnel Museum. Thisprivate museum shows part of the tunnel,built underneath the airport in order to getprovisions to besieged Sarajevo and thusprovided a lifeline for many inhabitants.Day 3 Sarajevo to MostarTake one of the frequent buses and enjoy theview (journey takes around 2½ hours). Checkin to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 4 MostarThe charming, ancient Old Town of Mostarw<strong>as</strong> developed on different levels linked bycobbled and paved streets (beware they canget slippery after rain). Visit the iconic bridgeand the museum dedicated to its history.Evenings are the time when you can reclaimthe city for yourself, after the coachloads ofday trippers go back to Croatia. The best viewsof the city and landmarks are definitely bynight, so dine at one of the many restaurantson the banks of the river for spectacularpanoram<strong>as</strong>. (B)Day 5 Mostar to SarajevoTake an optional excursion to nearby Blagajand visit the Tekke before taking a bus backto Sarajevo. Check in to hotel for overnightstay. (B)Day 6 Sarajevo to UKFree morning depending on time of flight backto the UK. (B)26Guesthouse Kandilj / SarajevoWe are ple<strong>as</strong>ed to bring this <strong>Regent</strong> favouriteto you again this year. This 3-star hotel h<strong>as</strong>only 10 traditional-style rooms which aredecorated with Bosnian handicrafts, reflectingits location at the heart of the Old Town. Thequaint courtyard is ideal for relaxation at theend of a full day sightseeing.Motel Kriva Cuprija / MostarWe love this small hotel, which is full ofcharacter and h<strong>as</strong> an excellent location inthe Old Town of Mostar, just 50 metres fromthe famous bridge. There is a lovely brightrestaurant which serves breakf<strong>as</strong>t, lunch anddinner and a sun-drenched terrace, perfectfor an evening aperitif or dining alfresco.Prices fromPer person twin-share £575Single room supplement £50Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withCroatian Airlines via Zagreb fromLondon Heathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Return bus tickets, Sarajevo-MostarPrices exclude• All transfers• Optional excursions – ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for pricesCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Sarajevoto Belgradeby TrainTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality7 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis individual itinerary combines the laidbackBosnian capital of Sarajevo with thewonderful lively city of Belgrade by train.The train between Sarajevo and Belgrade w<strong>as</strong>historically one of the few physical links thatbound Muslims, Serbs and Croats. Almostthe entire railway network in Bosnia w<strong>as</strong>rendered unusable during the 1992-1995war. Now after 18 years, the train line fromSarajevo to Belgrade is running again andthis short break enables you to spend a fewnights in each capital city, making the historicaltrain journey between. However, whilst theroute may seem straightforward the journeyis somewhat of an adventure <strong>as</strong> in the stillfragmented region of the former Yugoslavia,it now requires four different locomotivesfrom four separate railway companies, twop<strong>as</strong>sport checks and more than eight hoursto journey about 300 miles.Day 1 Fly to SarajevoFly to Sarajevo and transfer to hotel for 3nights.Day 2-3 SarajevoFree days in Sarajevo to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)Sarajevo h<strong>as</strong> a f<strong>as</strong>cinating history, nestledbetween wooded hills and divided by thebabbling river Miljacka, in the centre ofBosnia-Herzegovina. The B<strong>as</strong>carsija is themain market square, and the hub of the innercity with over 40 narrow lanes emanatingfrom it - these lanes are filled with tradersin copper, leather and woodwork. In themarket you can buy carved wooden toys andhandmade tin coffee pots and cups. Sarajevois packed with places of worship. The neo-Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral dates from1889. The Jewish museum w<strong>as</strong> a synagoguewhen it w<strong>as</strong> built in 1556. A nearby Orthodoxchurch h<strong>as</strong> been there since 1539.Day 4 Sarajevo to BelgradeTake train to Belgrade, which departs at 11:35and arrives Belgrade at 20:18 (times mayvary). Arrive Belgrade and check in to hotelfor 3 nights. (B)Day 5-6 BelgradeFree days in Belgrade to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)Belgrade is now firmly back where it belongs,at the heart of Europe. Fortunately, the soleevidence now of its many conquerors andformer despots is in its architecture. Name <strong>as</strong>tyle from the 17th century or from the 20thcentury, and it will be there. Yet Belgradeis more than just its buildings; the Danubeand its hilly surroundings are <strong>as</strong> important<strong>as</strong> the city itself. The Old Town is compactenough for walking everywhere and cars arebanned from many of its streets to ensure thisis enjoyable.Day 7 Belgrade to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £750Single room supplement £145Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withCroatian Airlines via Zagreb fromLondon Heathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Airport transfers• Train tickets, Sarajevo to BelgradePrices exclude• Railway transfers• Sightseeing excursions - ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for excursion options and pricesCity BreaksAsk us for individual city break prices inSarajevo, Belgrade or Mostar.27Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
CroatiaThe Inside StoryCroatia is deservedly one of Europe’s must-visitdestinations. Travellers from all over the world areenamoured by its magnificent co<strong>as</strong>tline strewn with overa thousand tiny islands upon azure blue se<strong>as</strong>. Here you willfind immaculately preserved Venetian-era settlementsnestled around picturesque harbours, some presided overby hilltop fortresses.The walled cities of Dubrovnik and Split captivate visitorswith their old squares and narrow streets. Split’s historiccentre lies within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace andDubrovnik, full of Mediterranean colours and scents,buzzes with vitality. Use bustling, cosmopolitan Zagreb,whose thousand-year-old upper town contr<strong>as</strong>ts with theAustro-Hungarian lower town, <strong>as</strong> a b<strong>as</strong>e to explore nearbyc<strong>as</strong>tles and sample wines in the vineyards of Zagorje.Head inland for medieval towns, endless fields of lavenderand the beguiling beauty of national parks covered inprimeval forest and dotted with lakes and waterfalls.Storyto tell -EllieMarrWhy I loveCroatiaFew countries are quite<strong>as</strong> romantic <strong>as</strong> Croatia.What could be betterthan sitting on a quaintrestaurant terrace inmedieval surroundings,with some delicious freshseafood and a bottleof lovely wine, whilewatching a goldensunset over sparklingAdriatic waters?600 BCGreeks colonise the Adriatic Co<strong>as</strong>t1463Ottoman Turksconquer the region1941Nazi Germany invades; “GreaterCroatia” formed, also comprisingmost of Bosnia and western Serbia1971“Croatian Spring”; activistsdemanding autonomy arearrested and CommunistParty purged229 BC-9 ADRomans conquer theIllyrians; Croatia fallsunder the Roman Empire1918Croatia joins the Kingdom ofSerbs, Croats and Slovenes –later renamed Yugoslavia1945Croatia becomes part ofYugoslav socialist federationfollowing bitter resistancecampaign1980President Tito dies andYugoslav republics slowly<strong>as</strong>sert independence
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in CroatiaDubrovnik City BreaksFrom £340pp twin-shareBe prepared to be enchanted bythis well-preserved baroque town,dominated by its encircling walls,lying on the picturesque Dalmatianco<strong>as</strong>t. Amble along the tightlypacked narrow streets of the OldTown and spend time in the grandDominican Mon<strong>as</strong>tery admiring itscollection of fine paintings. Strollalong the main thoroughfare, theStradun, by day and then join thenightly promenade where peoplecome to see and be seen.Zagreb City BreaksFrom £310pp twin-shareZagreb is a fun cosmopolitan capitalcity, but start in the thousand-yearoldupper town, Gornji Grad, for allthe highlights. Note the PresidentialPalace, defended by colourfulguards, and St Mark’s Church withits exquisitely tiled roof. Descendin the funicular to the lower townand Ban Josip Jelacic Square, am<strong>as</strong>terpiece of Austro-Hungarianstyle. Choose from a bewilderingselection of cuisine before joiningthe party in the bars and clubs.5-star UpgradeHilton Imperial DubrovnikYou couldn’t be better placed fora stay in Dubrovnik <strong>as</strong> the Hilton,with its attractive exterior, is justmetres from the Old City gate.Sample a gl<strong>as</strong>s of Dalmatian wineand enjoy spectacular views ofhistoric Dubrovnik from the hotelrestaurant’s terrace, where freshseafood is a speciality. The rooms aresmart, decorated in warm colours,and have garden, rooftop or hill views.All of our Croatian city break prices include 3 nights accommodation withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t, return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s and all airport taxes. For our fullrange visit www.regentholidays.co.uk or call to speak to a <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>Croatia specialist.ZAGREBGulfofTriestePulaCresCROATIAKaprinaCakovecVarazdinKoprivnicaKrizovciSLOVENIABjelovarSamoborViroviticaZAGREBSneznikVelika GoricaPodravska1796 m.SalatinaKupaSisakKulinaKarlovacPetrinjaRijekaNovaI s t r i aGlinaGradiskaOgulinPazinCrikRovinjKrkSavaHUNGARYDrávaP o z e g a S l a v o n i j aSlavonskiBrodBeliMan<strong>as</strong>tirSlavonskaPozegaOsijekSERBIAVukovarVinkovciDakovo ZupanjaLosinjPagV e l e b i tGospicD a l m a t i aBOSNIA & HERZEGOVINADugi OtokAdriatic SeaZadarKornat SibenikZirjeKninTrogirDinara1831 m.SoltaVisSinjSolinSplitBracHvarKorculaL<strong>as</strong>tovoMakarskaMetkovicMljetDubrovnikMONTENEGROCroatia - Perfect ForFrom the magnificent natural beauty of clear se<strong>as</strong>, deep forests, serenelakes, dramatic co<strong>as</strong>tlines and mountainous national parks, to historical andcultural icons including medieval walled cities, ancient fortresses and pictureperfectharbours, Croatia h<strong>as</strong> it all. Few destinations can bo<strong>as</strong>t such a potentcombination of historic charm and stunning surroundings.1990First free elections inmore than 50 years;Ultra-nationalist FranjoTudjman voted in1992-95Becomes embroiled ininter-ethnic civil waragainst Bosnian Serbs2003Submits formal applicationfor EU membership2011Signs EU accession treatypaving the way for fullmembership in 20131991Declares independence;adopts the familiar redchequeredflag2001Hague tribunal indicts formerYugoslav President SlobodanMilosevic for war crimes2009Joins NATO29Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicCroatiaGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedMay-SeptPlitvice Lakes and Krka National Park, knownfor their spectacular waterfalls, are only <strong>as</strong>mall part of the amazing Croatian landscape.Dubrovnik, Split and Zagreb are certainly thecultural must-sees, but the tour also stopsin Zadar, where its charming Old Town andharbour offer the perfect opportunity tobrush shoulders with the locals in the manycafés and Mediterranean eateries.This tour also includes some of the mustseesof Mostar and Sarajevo in neighbouringBosnia-Herzegovina. These are guaranteeddeparture tours operated in conjunction withour Croatia partners and are not exclusive to<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>’ clients.Day 1 Fly to DubrovnikFly to Dubrovnik and transfer to the hotel forovernight stay. (D)Day 3 Sarajevo to VukovarMorning departure for Vukovar, the largestcity in e<strong>as</strong>tern Croatia, situated by the RiverDrava. Explore the town with its beautifulcathedral and old fortress. Overnight stay inVukovar. (B,D)Day 4 Vukovar to ZagrebEn route to Zagreb visit Dakovo Cathedral.On arrival in Zagreb the city tour will includethe fortified Upper Town, St Mark’s Church,the Cathedral, the Croatian National Theatreand the university. The Croatian politicaland cultural capital of Zagreb is a lively andstimulating city, with fine examples of Austro-Hungarian façades, interesting museums (don’tmiss the Museum Mimara) and many cafesalways busy with locals chatting and sippingcappuccinos. Overnight stay in Zagreb. (B,D)Day 7 Split to DubrovnikIn the morning depart to Dubrovnik, drivingalong the scenic Makarska Riviera p<strong>as</strong>singlooming mountains and sparkling watersfringed by sandy bays and palm trees <strong>as</strong> you go.Dubrovnik, pearl of the Adriatic, is a beautifulcity listed <strong>as</strong> a UNESCO World HeritageSite and will not fail to impress with its wellpreservedbaroque old town, ancient city wallsand picturesque location on the DalmatianCo<strong>as</strong>t. Visits will include the cathedral andFranciscan Mon<strong>as</strong>tery, housing Europe’sthird oldest pharmacy. Overnight stay inDubrovnik. (B,D)Day 8 Dubrovnik to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK.Day 2 Dubrovnik to SarajevoDay 5 Zagreb to Zadar30Morning departure to Mostar, known for itsiconic bridge and divided city. On arrival inMostar there will be a walking tour with freetime for lunch and to shop for local metalworkand handicrafts before departing for Sarajevo,Bosnia’s historic capital city. City tour ofSarajevo on arrival. (B,D)Today, visit another place listed on theUNESCO World Heritage list – PlitviceNational Park, where there will be timefor touring some of the 16 lakes and their92 spectacular waterfalls. The setting ofpine woods provides a serene yet beautifulbackdrop to the c<strong>as</strong>cading waters. Overnightstay in Zadar. (B,D)Day 6 Zadar to SplitThis morning take an orientation tour of Zadarand admire tre<strong>as</strong>ures from p<strong>as</strong>t civilisations –the Roman Forum (2nd century BC), the pre-Romanesque churches of St Donat and St Eli<strong>as</strong>(9th century) and the city gates amongst others.After a stop for lunch in Trogir, continue toSplit, where the tour of the city will include ThePeristyle, Jupiter’s Temple and the Cathedral.There will also be time for you to get a good feelfor the ambience of this amazing city by walkingalong the cobbled streets of Diocletian’s Palace,built by the Roman emperor in the 4th century<strong>as</strong> a se<strong>as</strong>ide retreat. Today it is home to over3,000 inhabitants. Overnight stay in Split. (B,D)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement5, 19 May £975 £1902, 16 Jun £975 £19030 Jun £1010 £2151, 15 Sep £1010 £21529 Sep £975 £190Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonGatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels onhalf board b<strong>as</strong>is (breakf<strong>as</strong>t and dinner)• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing tours with Englishspeakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof CroatiaFly-DriveTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality14 daysFly-DriveExplore at LeisureYear-roundA Croatia fly-drive holiday is the perfect way toexperience the many delights of this magnificentcountry up-close and at your own pace. Enjoyscenic routes through verdant valleys, acrosssecluded mountain villages and along pristineAdriatic co<strong>as</strong>tline. Stop off at stunning, historichotspots such <strong>as</strong> the ancient city of Zadar, magicDubrovnik, enchanting Split and the beautifulisland of Korcula with its sparkling beaches andpicture-perfect Old Town.This itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>ed on good quality 3 &4-star hotels plus group A car hire, howeverwe can also offer 4 & 5-star hotels anddifferent levels of car hire if required.Day 1 Arrive ZagrebFly to Zagreb, pick up your car at the airport anddrive to Zagreb hotel to check in for two nights.Day 2 ZagrebEnjoy a full day exploring the cosmopolitan cityof Zagreb, where the highlights lie within thethousand year old upper town of Gornji Grad.Here, one can find the Presidential Palace andthe historic Church of St. Mark’s displaying theCroatian, Dalmatian and Slovenian coats ofarms, now an impressive emblem of the city.Linking the upper town with the lower town isthe world’s shortest funicular and well worththe 4 kuna fare! (B)Day 3 Zagreb to Plitvice LakesDrive to Plitvice (190 km) with a possiblestop en route in Slunj for a stroll around theR<strong>as</strong>toke watermills. Check in for two nights. (B)Day 4 Plitvice LakesTake a whole day to explore Plitvice Lakes. Thelakes were shaped by limestone sedimentsand minerals spread by water flow andabsorbed by plants and trees. Over time theseturned to stone, a unique phenomena of thiskarst region. The area of Plitvice, declareda National Park in 1949, comprises denselyforested mountains and a string of sixteencrystal clear emerald lakes and waterfalls.Alongside the lakes there are over 50 miles ofwalkways so you can choose a leisurely strollor a more ambitious hike. In 1996 the PlitviceLakes were entered in the UNESCO Registerof World Natural Heritage Sites. (B)Day 5 Plitvice Lakes to ZadarDrive to Zadar (145 km) and check in forone night. Explore this typical laidbackMediterranean walled town, with a romanticharbour and white stone-paved streets,f<strong>as</strong>hionable cafes and ancient landmarks. (B)Day 6 Zadar to SplitDrive to Trogir (150 km). Stop en route at KrkaNational Park to admire the famous waterfallsbefore heading to Sibenik and Trogir, twolittle undiscovered gems, where you mightthink you have landed on a film set, <strong>as</strong> everycorner is full of character and locals are ‘busy’resting in the shade from the warmth of thesun. Check in to Split hotel for two nights. (B)Day 7 SplitDiscover the charms of Split, a charmingUNESCO Heritage City with its magnificentDiocletian’s Palace and central piazza, Peristil.This popular square is an acoustic-rich settingfor cappella singers at dusk. (B)Day 8 Split to KorculaDrive to Korcula and check in for two nights. (B)Day 9 KorculaKorcula is one of the largest and mostattractive of Croatia’s many islands withover 190 rocky coves, secluded beachesand extensive vineyards. The main town onthe island h<strong>as</strong> a f<strong>as</strong>cinating Old Town, withVenetian architecture and wonderful stonewalls dating from the 14th century. There isplenty to do on Korcula, apart from relaxing,<strong>as</strong> it is a wonderful place for walking withnumerous routes around the island. (B)Day 10 Korcula to DubrovnikDrive to Dubrovnik (110 km) and check in forfour nights. (B)Day 11-13 DubrovnikAllow plenty of time to explore Dubrovnik andits surrounding are<strong>as</strong>, perhaps even decidingto venture further afield into Montenegroor Mostar. Take a cruise to the three mostbeautiful islands of the Dubrovnik archipelago– Kolocep, Lopud and Šipan, commonly known<strong>as</strong> the Elafiti islands. These verdant islands havegardens full of oranges and lemons and lovelyse<strong>as</strong>hore landscapes, charming, picturesquevillages with small votive churches. (B)Day 14 Dubrovnik to UKEnjoy a l<strong>as</strong>t morning in Dubrovnik beforedriving to the airport for the return flightto the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1295Single room supplement £345Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow, returning to Gatwick• All airport taxes and surcharges• Accommodation in 3 & 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Car hire Group A, including CDW,theft protection, third party liability,additional driver cover, unlimitedmileage and all taxesPrices exclude• Ferry tickets, purch<strong>as</strong>ed locally31Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof theBalkansTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality14 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-round32This individual itinerary links the Balkan citiesof Zagreb, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar andDubrovnik. Start in the cosmopolitan city ofZagreb, where the highlights lie within thethousand year old upper town of Gornji Grad.Linking the upper town with the lower town isthe world’s shortest funicular and well worththe 4 kuna fare!Travel by train to Belgrade, Serbia and then toSarajevo. This f<strong>as</strong>cinating train journey, onceknown <strong>as</strong> the ‘Olympic Express’, crosses twointernational borders (Bosnia/Croatia andCroatia/Serbia). Spend some days exploringSarajevo and the rejuvenated Mostar beforeending your journey in the pearl of the Adriatic– Dubrovnik.This suggested individual itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>edon good 3-star hotels, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> train and bustickets. We can tailor-make this itinerary to suityou, if you would prefer to stay longer in any oneplace or upgrade your hotels to 4 or 5-star hotels.Day 1 Fly to ZagrebFly to Zagreb and check into hotel for 2 nights.Day 2 ZagrebFree day in Zagreb to explore at leisure or bookoptional excursions. We recommend exploringthe medieval upper town, Gornji Grad, wherehighlights include the Presidential Palace,which is defended by colourful guards, andthe exquisitely tiled St Mark’s Church. Followthis by taking the funicular to the lower townand the historical, Austro-Hungarian styleBan Josip Jelacic Square. Enjoy some Croatiansnacks at Dolac market before heading tothe ornately decorated Mirogoj Cemetery. (B)Day 3 Zagreb to BelgradeTake train from Zagreb to Belgrade (there arefour departures a day and the journey takesaround 6 hours). Arrive Belgrade and checkinto hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 4-5 BelgradeFree days in Belgrade to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. Belgrade is anexciting and extremely cordial city wherelocals will indulge you with a welcoming gl<strong>as</strong>sof rakija or two. Recommendations include theimpressive hilltop Kalemagdan Fortress andthe peaceful, compact Old Town. Relax on thebeach on the Ada Ciganlija peninsula or watchthe world go by from a romantic restaurantterrace overlooking the river. (B)Day 6 Belgrade to SarajevoTake train from Belgrade to Sarajevo (thereis one departure daily and the journey takesaround 9 hours). Arrive Sarajevo and checkinto hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 7-8 SarajevoFree days in Sarajevo to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. Sarajevo is anendlessly f<strong>as</strong>cinating city with narrow cobbledstreets brimming with shops selling traditionalwares and where mosques, Orthodoxchurches, synagogues and cathedrals rubshoulders. For gorgeous views over the city,<strong>as</strong>cend Mount Bjel<strong>as</strong>nica before delving intothe history of the city at sights such <strong>as</strong> theTunnel Museum and former football stadiumwhich is now a cemetery. (B)Day 9 Sarajevo to MostarTake bus from Sarajevo to Mostar (there arehourly departures and the journey takesaround 2½ hours. Arrive Mostar and checkinto hotel for 2 nights . (B)Day 10 MostarFree day in Mostar to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. Mostar is one ofBosnia-Herzegovina’s most popular sights– and deservedly so. This beautiful, orientalflavouredcity, with its enchanting c<strong>as</strong>cadeof old stone houses, cobbled streets andOttoman architecture, is famed for its iconicOld Bridge - an enduring and extremelyphoto-worthy symbol of the country’sresurgence since the war. (B)Day 11 Mostar to DubrovnikTake bus from Mostar to Dubrovnik (thereare three departures daily and the journeytakes around 3-4 hours). Arrive Dubrovnikand check into hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 12-13 DubrovnikFree days in Dubrovnik to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. Dubrovnik, pearlof the Adriatic, is a beautiful city listed <strong>as</strong> aUNESCO World Heritage Site and will not failto impress with its well-preserved baroqueold town, ancient city walls and picturesquelocation on the Dalmatian Co<strong>as</strong>t. (B)Day 14 Dubrovnik to UKFree morning depending on time of flight backto the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1095Single room supplement £320Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow returning to Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Train tickets, Zagreb to Belgrade,Belgrade to Sarajevo• Bus tickets, Sarajevo to Mostar,Mostar to DubrovnikPrices exclude• All transfers• Sightseeing and optional excursionsCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
DalmatianHighlightsCruiseTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysCruiseFully GuidedMay-OctThe perfect combination of relaxation andculture, this Dalmatian Highlights Cruisevisits the beautiful city of Dubrovnik with itsstunning Old Town and guarantees the fullMediterranean flavour of sun, beaches anddelicious food of the Dalmatian islands.Sailing aboard the small but perfectly formedMS Nikola, this cruise offers a more informaland relaxing experience. The boat features 17air-conditioned cabins with double or twinbeds. Each cabin is 6 metres square with anadditional shower and WC area.There is plenty of time for sunbathing,swimming and exploring island villages, smallbays and Dalmatian towns. This cruise is onhalf board b<strong>as</strong>is including 3 course lunchesbut full board is possible <strong>as</strong> well. In the eveningenjoy after dinner drinks in cafés and bars ofthe various harbour towns.This is a guaranteed departure group touroperated in conjunction with our Croatianpartners and is, therefore, not exclusive to<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>’ clients. Cruises depart everySunday from 5th May to 6th Oct 2013.Day 1 Fly to DubrovnikFly to Dubrovnik and transfer to the MSNikola. (D)Day 2 Dubrovnik to Pomena viaElaphiti IslandsCruise from Dubrovnik to Pomena, a smallharbour on the western co<strong>as</strong>t of Mljet Island.Here, there are enchanting vineyards and alarge National Park of dense fragrant AleppoPine. There will be free time for swimming orrelaxing. Sailing time is around 4½ hours. Dockand overnight in Pomena. (B,L)Day 3 Pomena to HvarIn the morning set sail for a cruise to thePakleni Islands and Hvar Island, renownedfor its aromatic lavender fields. Hvar town isnot only the ‘Sun Capital’ of Croatia, with thehighest number of hours of sunshine per year,but also one of the most magnificent towns inthe country. The green of the pines and theblue of the Adriatic Sea embrace the medievaltown. Sailing time is around 5 hours. Dock andovernight in Hvar. (B,L)Day 4 Hvar to SplitIn the morning set sail via the Island of Brac toSplit, a charming UNESCO Heritage City andthe magnificent Diocletian’s Palace with itscentral piazza, Peristil. This popular square isan acoustic-rich setting for a cappella singersat dusk. Sailing time is around 3 hours. Dockand overnight in Split. (B,L)Day 5 Split to KorculaIn the morning cruise to Korcula Island, thealleged birthplace of the famous explorerMarco Polo. The main town of Korcula is <strong>as</strong>tunning medieval town which is reminiscentof a miniature Dubrovnik. Sailing time is around6 hours. Dock and overnight in Korcula. (B,L)Day 6 Korcula to SlanoSail along the Peljesac Peninsula to Slano,on the lower Makarska Riviera wherethe co<strong>as</strong>tline is breathtaking. Moor in theattractive harbour, where you can see ruinsof Illyrian settlements, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> Baroqueand Renaissance buildings. There arepebble beaches and verdant Mediterraneanvegetation. Sailing time is around 4½ hours.Dock and overnight in Slano. (B,L)Day 7 Slano to DubrovnikThe morning is spent relaxing beforeafternoon departure for Dubrovnik. Sailingtime is around 2 hours. Dock and overnightin Dubrovnik. (B,L)Day 8 Dubrovnik to UKDisembark after breakf<strong>as</strong>t and spend themorning or whole day exploring Dubrovnik(depending on flight timings), transfer to theairport for flight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromDeparturePer person Single roomdatestwin-share supplement5, 12, 19, 26 May £935 £2952, 9, 16, 23, 30 Jun £1035 £3757, 14 Jul £1035 £37521, 28 Jul £1090 £4704, 11, 18, 25 Aug £1090 £4701, 8, 15 Sep £1035 £37522, 29 Sep £935 £2956 Oct £935 £295Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways from London Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation on boat <strong>as</strong> specifiedon half board b<strong>as</strong>is• Return airport transfersPrices exclude• Tourist tax and entrance to MljetNational Park – €25 per person tobe paid locallyPle<strong>as</strong>e note that the cruise route maybe subject to change at short noticedue to weather conditions.33Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
SloveniaThe Inside StoryLying in a glorious position between the Alps and theAdriatic, Slovenia is a compact gem where you can bewalking in snowy alpine fields in the morning and bathingin the warm sea in the afternoon. Taking in the BaroqueLjubljana, Venetian Piran, forested mountains, mon<strong>as</strong>teries,c<strong>as</strong>tles and spa resorts can e<strong>as</strong>ily be done in just one visit.Ljubljana is a lively, cultural city, more of a quaint provincialtown than a capital city, while Piran and Koper on the co<strong>as</strong>tproudly display their Venetian influences.The climatic health resort of Rakitna is known for its curesor you can just breathe in the bracing fresh air <strong>as</strong> you hikealong alpine trails, round mountain lakes and up to c<strong>as</strong>cadingwaterfalls.The star of the show is Lake Bled, surrounded by gloriousmountains with the hilltop c<strong>as</strong>tle gazing down on thepicture-postcard island and its 15th century church.Whatever you choose to do there, Slovenia will certainlyleave you with a vivid <strong>as</strong>sortment of memories.Storyto tell -EllieMarrWhy I loveSloveniaI love Slovenia becauseit truly h<strong>as</strong> it all! In thisgreen and ple<strong>as</strong>ant landyou can find scenic lakes,beautiful mountains andattractive co<strong>as</strong>tline allwithin a couple of hours’drive of each other. Thenumber of activitiesyou can fit into <strong>as</strong>hort trip here istremendous.585-595Slavs settle in the region1282Habsburg rule overmost of the Slovenelands begins1918Collapse of the Austro-HungarianEmpire; Slovenia joins the Kingdomof Serbs, Croats and Slovenes1945Becomes a constituentrepublic of socialistYugoslavia952Great Carantania, firstSlovenian and first Slavicstate, is first mentioned1511Ljubljana dev<strong>as</strong>tated by anearthquake; city rebuilt inrenaissance style1941Slovenia occupiedby Nazi Germany andItaly during WWII1980President Titodies in Ljubljana
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in SloveniaLjubljana City BreaksFrom £295 pp twin-shareTake the funicular up to LjubljanaC<strong>as</strong>tle, dominating the skyline,and pay a visit to the Cathedralof St Nichol<strong>as</strong> with its cl<strong>as</strong>sictwin towers. Cross from theworld of the living to the deadthrough the monumental arch ofZale cemetery, one of Europe’sprettiest cemeteries. Rent a bikeand cycle through bucolic TivoliPark then treat yourself at one ofthe many cafés and bars that packthe main square, Presernov Trg.For unbeatable panoramic views,take to the skies with a thrilling hotair balloon ride over the medievalrooftops of the city.Hotel Slon HHHHDiscovered on our l<strong>as</strong>t visit toSlovenia, the Hotel Slon is a greatchoice of hotel. It is in a perfectlocation, right by the Old Town,so everything is within walkingdistance. The rooms are smart withexcellent facilities. If you have theenergy at the end of the day thereis a fitness room, or you could justtry out the se<strong>as</strong>onal Mediterraneanfood on offer in the restaurant.Grand UnionExecutive Hotel HHHHLjubljana’s superior 4-star GrandUnion Hotel is located in the centreof the city just a short distance fromthe main attractions. You could findyourself mingling with Ljubljana’ssmart set or even internationalcelebrities. The rooms are allstylish, many with good viewsacross the city, and the service isexemplary.HUNGARYLJUBLJANAITALYTriglaw2864 mBovecSocaJulianAlpsTolminSezanaGulfofTriesteKoperPiranJeseniceTrzicKranjPostojnaIllirskaBistricaKamnikTrbovljeKocevjeRavne nKoroskemRibnicaCrnomeljKolpaVelenjeCeljeSavaRuseSlovenskaBistricaLJUBLJANAIdrijaS L O V E N I ANovaKrskoGoricaLogatecTrebnjeBreziceSLOVENIAKozinaA U S T R I APivkaNovo MestoMariborRadenciDravaRog<strong>as</strong>kaSlatinaPtujMuraC R O A T I AMurskaSobotaOrmozSlovenia - Perfect ForSuch is Slovenia’s modest size, a holiday here is ideal for those looking for agamut of travel experiences, from outdoor activities to culture to relaxation,all in a short space of time. The wealth of mountains, lakes and rivers enticehikers, skiers, kayakers and climbers, and within e<strong>as</strong>y reach of these you willfind enough medieval towns, picturesque churches and wonderful c<strong>as</strong>tlesto satisfy the most hardened of history buffs.1989Slovene parliament confirms theright of the country to secedefrom the Yugoslav federation1999Allows NATO to use airspaceduring the bombing ofKosovo and Serbia2004One of 10 newstates to join the EU2008Becomes the first formercommunist state to<strong>as</strong>sume the EU presidency1991Slovenia declares itsindependence2002Formally invitedto join NATO atthe Prague summit2007Adopts the euro<strong>as</strong> its currency35Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Ljubljana& Lake BledTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality7 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-round36This twin-centre individual itinerary allowsyou to combine the natural beauty of LakeBled with the cultural atmosphere of Ljubljana.Lake Bled is truly the jewel of Slovenia withits legendary island in the middle of the lake,c<strong>as</strong>tle and hot springs. Its beneficial climateh<strong>as</strong> attracted numerous cosmopolitan visitorsfor centuries. Whilst in Bled, you can take alocal bus or walk to Vintgar Gorge, located <strong>as</strong>hort distance from the town. The Gorge isimpressive and a wooden walkway h<strong>as</strong> beenbuilt into the rock. This walkway follows theRadovna River and crosses over the riverseveral times, thus allowing some great viewsof the falls and rapids.All transfers are included by private carbut we can also include transfers by publictransportation if you are travelling on a budget.Day 1 Fly to LjubljanaFly to Ljubljana. Transfer to hotel close toLake Bled (25 kilometres) and check in tohotel for 3 nights.Day 2-3 Lake BledEnjoy the picturesque lakeside resort of Bledwhich h<strong>as</strong> attracted cosmopolitan visitors forcenturies with its stunning natural beauty,hot springs and superb climate.Located in the northwest of Slovenia, Bled iswell placed on the edge of a former volcaniclake in the shadow of the picturesque medievalBled C<strong>as</strong>tle. An ideal holiday destinationboth in the summer and winter, Bled offersnumerous water and land-b<strong>as</strong>ed activitiesand enjoys a gorgeous setting at the foot ofthe Julian Alps.The focal point of the area is the fairytalec<strong>as</strong>tle high up on the bluff, which overlooksthe crystal clear lake beneath. It houses anexpensive restaurant and a museum detailingthe area’s history. In the western part of thelake is Bled Island, which h<strong>as</strong> been the siteof a Christian church since the 9th century.It h<strong>as</strong> become customary for lovers to swimout to the island and ring the church bell. Atour of Bled Island is a must; however, to beatthe crowds, hire a row boat and get thereearly. Crowning the island is the strikingBaroque-decorated Church of St MarikaBozja, below which lies a pre-Roman temple.We certainly recommend hiking up to BledC<strong>as</strong>tle for some lunch and unparalleled views. (B)Day 4 LjubljanaTransfer to Ljubljana and check in to hotelfor 3 nights. (B)Day 5-6 LjubljanaFree days in Ljubljana to explore thedelights of this small yet culturally packedcity. Ljubljana is the stunning capital city ofSlovenia, coveted over the centuries by theCelts, Illyrians, Romans and finally the Slavs.The embankment of the River Ljubljanica is aple<strong>as</strong>ant place to spend your evenings, eithersitting in one of the jolly outdoor cafés andrestaurants or just walking and climbing to thec<strong>as</strong>tle hill for a panoramic view across to theJulian Alps and the imposing Mount Triglav. (B)Day 7 Ljubljana to UKFree morning depending on time of flight backto the UK. (B)Prices from3 & 4-star Hotel OptionGolf Hotel, Lake BledM hotel, LjubljanaPer person twin-share £595Single room supplement £144Upgrade to a Lake View Roomfrom £39 pp twin-share4 & 5-star Hotel OptionGrand Hotel Toplice, Lake BledGrand Hotel Union Executive, LjubljanaPer person twin-share £775Single room supplement £240Upgrade to a Lake View Roomfrom £57 pp twin-sharePrices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withE<strong>as</strong>yJet direct from Stansted• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers by private carCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Slovenia& IstriaFly-DriveTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysFly-DriveExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis new itinerary includes many of thehighlights of Slovenia such <strong>as</strong> Lake Bled,Bohinj and its capital, Ljubljana. You will drivethrough some stunning landscapes from thelakes to the Julian Alps, from the co<strong>as</strong>t to thesouthern hill region. The added twist for thisyear is that we have included the stunningIstrian peninsula. Here, stop in pretty Venetianco<strong>as</strong>tal towns, rest in picturesque coves andexplore Roman ruins.In this itinerary we have included Group A carhire with air-conditioning, but we can quote forlarger cars. We book good 3 and 4-star hotelswith car parking, in good locations, ideal forexploring the surrounding are<strong>as</strong>. Hotels maycharge up to €10 per day for parking.Day 1 Fly to LjubljanaFly to Ljubljana Brnik airport and drive to Bled(34 kilometres). Check in to hotel for 2 nights.Day 2 Lake Bled and Lake BohinjFree day to walk around the emerald-greenlake, visit the 11th century Bled c<strong>as</strong>tle andtake a pletna boat ride to the island in themiddle of the lake. We also recommend avisit to Savica Waterfall and nearby LakeBohinj, the beautiful glacier lake and quieterdestination which will also suit culture lovers<strong>as</strong> there are plenty of museums and churchesin the area. (B)Day 3 Bled To Piran Via Postojna CaveDepart Bled for Postojna Cave - the mustseefor nature lovers (102 kilometres). Onthe way you can visit the Karst Cave orPredjama C<strong>as</strong>tle which is set in one of the mostbreathtaking locations halfway up a hillside ina cavern. Continue on to Piran (75 kilometres),a wonderful co<strong>as</strong>tal town with its VenetianGothic architecture and narrow alleys. Here,the fish is the freshest in Slovenia. Overnightin Piran. (Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that Piran is almost a carfree zone – so parking is in large car parks onthe outskirts of the city but you can drive tothe hotel to off-load your luggage). (B)packed full of Habsburg vill<strong>as</strong> and palaces.Take a stroll along the 12 kilometre beachfrontpromenade. Overnight in Opatija. (B)Day 6 Opatija to LjubljanaDrive back to Ljubljana (148 kilometres) afterspending some time exploring inland Istria.Here, the scenery is mostly rolling agriculturalhills and attractive medieval hilltop villages,rather reminiscent of Tuscany. Wine routeshave been developed in this region, and it is alsofamous for white truffles. Check in to hotel for2 nights. (B)Day 7 LjubljanaFree day in Ljubljana to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)Day 8 Fly to the UKFree morning depending on time of flight,before drive to airport and drop off car. Flyback to the UK. (B)Day 4 Piran to PulaToday take your time to drive to Pula (96kilometres), and explore many places en route.Stop off in Porec with its Euphr<strong>as</strong>ius B<strong>as</strong>ilicaand remarkable 6th-century Byzantinemosaics. Many people also stop off in Rovinj,which h<strong>as</strong> a delightful old town full of narrowcobbled streets, before continuing to Pula.Overnight in Pula. (B)Day 5 Pula to OpatijaThe best way to explore Pula is on foot so leavethe car at the hotel and visit Pula’s enormousRoman Amphitheatre before continuing toOpatija (101 kilometres). You can stop off atLabin en route (44 kilometres), a charmingmedieval hilltop town with its steep andnarrow streets and Baroque and Renaissancepalazzi. Opatija so called ‘Vienna on Sea’ isPrices fromPer person twin-share £750Single room supplement £130Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withE<strong>as</strong>yJet direct from Stansted• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3 & 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Car Hire Group A including CDW,theft protection, unlimited mileage andall taxesPrices exclude• Toll charges on certain main roads• Car parking charges in Piranand Opatija37Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
BulgariaThe Inside StorySince breaking free of its Soviet shackles in 1990, Bulgariah<strong>as</strong> emerged <strong>as</strong> a vibrant destination with much to offer. Itsboom may be <strong>as</strong>sociated with bargain beach breaks and skiholidays but Bulgaria is now also steadily revealing a sideto itself which remains relatively undiscovered by visitors.With its mix of Byzantine and Turkish architectural styles,attractive Sofia is crammed with churches, museums andgalleries. The Black Sea resorts, particularly Varna are stilla magnet for visitors but those in the know head inland.Trace a rich heritage in magnificently preserved townssuch <strong>as</strong> Koprivshtitza and Veliko Turnovo before takingin breathtaking vist<strong>as</strong> dotted with ancient sites. Take inthe stunning scenery of Rila National Park with its 11thcentury mon<strong>as</strong>tery and <strong>as</strong>cend Mount Vitosha by cablecar for panoramic mountain views. Explore the narrowcobbled streets and Roman amphitheatres of Plovdiv andmake sure you sample fine local wines at Melnik, famedfor its wine cellars.Storyto tell -ChristinaGibbonsWhy I loveBulgariaBulgaria is beautifulthrough and through.Starting from the ruggedBlack Sea co<strong>as</strong>t you canhead inland and discovernothing but breathtakingscenery and magnificentnational parks. In Sofia,head to the CentralMarket to pick upsome local breadand cheeses forthe perfectpicnic.681First BulgarianKingdom established1396Becomes part of theOttoman Empire; the eraof ‘Turkish yoke’ begins1878Treaty of San Stefanorecognises an autonomousBulgaria1914-18Allies with Germany in WWI;suffers most severe per capitalosses of any country1947New constitution alongSoviet lines establishesone-party state855Sts Cyril and MethodiusBulgarian alphabetdevised1762Beginnings of the BulgarianNational Revival1908Ferdinand declaresindependence from Turkeyand <strong>as</strong>sumes title of Tsar1946Monarchy abolishedin a referendum andrepublic declared
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in BulgariaBulgaria Fly-DrivesFrom £675 pp twin-shareDay 1 - Fly to SofiaSofia bo<strong>as</strong>ts a colourful and ancientcollection of churches, mosquesand synagogues in its marvellouslypreserved historical centre.Day 2 - Sofia to MelnikDrive through green forests to whatis possibly Bulgaria’s most famouslandmark, Rila Mon<strong>as</strong>tery, whichplayed a key role during the centuriesof Turkish rule, helping to keeptraditional religion and culture alive.Day 3 - Melnik to PlovdivDrive to Plovdiv via RozhenMon<strong>as</strong>tery and admire the ancientmurals and stained-gl<strong>as</strong>s windows.Day 4 - PlovdivExplore the Old Town with its mix ofRoman remains, Byzantine churchesand national revival examples.Savour the oriental sweetmeats andsip slivovica, a t<strong>as</strong>ty plum brandy.Day 5 - Plovdiv to TryavnaDrive to Tryavna via Kazanlakand through the Valley of Roses.It is worthwhile stopping at Etar, af<strong>as</strong>cinating open-air museum, whichh<strong>as</strong> recreated life in Bulgaria duringthe 18th and 19th centuries. Continueto Tryavna, a charming small townwith unique Renaissance architectureset in beautiful countryside.Day 6 - Tryavna toVeliko TurnovoDrive to Veliko Turnovo via ShipkaP<strong>as</strong>s. Stop at Shipka Mon<strong>as</strong>tery andvisit Dryanovo Mon<strong>as</strong>tery with itswonderful views en route.Day 7 - Veliko Turnovoand Arban<strong>as</strong>siExplore this historical town built overa series of precipitous hills divided bydeep gorges and overlooked by them<strong>as</strong>sive, medieval Tsarevets fortresscomplex. Arban<strong>as</strong>si is a pretty villagewith more than 90 churches, oldhouses and the magnificent NativityChurch.Day 8 - Veliko Turnovoto SofiaDrive to Sofia via Troyan Mon<strong>as</strong>teryand Koprivshtitsa where you canrediscover the traditions andfolklore of old Bulgaria.SOFIASandanskiMACEDONIA PetrichR O M A N I AD u n a v s k a R a v n i n aIskurB a l k a n M o u n t a i n sStrumaR h o d o p e M o u n t a i n sMestaVitOsumG R E E C EDanubeVidinNoviBalchikLomSvishtovRazgradOryakhovoPazarVarnaByalaPopovoShumenPlevenProvadiyaTurgovishteKnezhaMontanaMidzorVratsaLovech SevlievoVeliko Turnovo2169 mMezdraTroyanGabrovoAytosPomorieSERBIASliven KarnobatBotevgradKazanlukBurg<strong>as</strong>SOFIANovi IskurKarlovoNovaZagoraYambolGrudovoSrednogorieStaraTsarevoPernikRadomir Ikhtiman BULGARIAZagoraElkhovoSamokovKyustendilDupnitsa Pazardzhik Plovdiv DimitrovgradKharmanliMusalaAsenovgrad Kh<strong>as</strong>kovo2925 mBlagoevgradSvilengradT U R K E YRazlogKurdzhaliGotseDelchevSmolyanRuseTundzhaRadnevoMarilsaArdaMadanMomchilgradSilistraTutrakanDulovoDobrichKamchiyaKavarnaBlackSeaBulgaria - Perfect ForAncient ruins, UNESCO World Heritage sites and national parks aboundin Bulgaria. Historians and those interested in archaeology will find enoughtombs, mon<strong>as</strong>teries, villages and fortresses dating back to the Thracian,Dacian and Roman periods to keep them busy for days. Nature lovers canhead into the stunning countryside for a spot of bird watching, and for thebrave, a bit of brown bear watching too.1971Zhivkov becomespresident andstaunch USSR ally1991New constitution proclaimsBulgaria a parliamentaryrepublic2001Parliament agrees todestroy Soviet-mademissiles ahead of NATOmembership2007Bulgaria and Romaniajoin the European Union1954Todar Zhivkov becomesFirst Secretary of theBulgarian Communist Party1989Zhivkov ousted after Reformsin the Soviet Union inspiredemands for democratisation1994Bulgaria reach theWorld Cup semi-finalin the US2004Bulgaria isadmitted toNATO39Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
RomaniaThe Inside StoryRomania might be an EU member but so much of thecountry remains in a bucolic time warp. Here you will find aland of densely forested mountains, deep gorges, medievaltowns, Black Sea resorts and fairytale c<strong>as</strong>tles.Bucharest is a city of contr<strong>as</strong>ts with the colossal Palace ofParliament and glorious Belle Epoque architecture. A majordraw for visitors is Transylvania, immortalised <strong>as</strong> the landof Dracula. Its rugged mountains and inviting valleys arehome to idyllic villages where locals still wear traditionaldress <strong>as</strong> they walk beside their horse-drawn carts.Unle<strong>as</strong>h your imagination <strong>as</strong> you visit fanciful Bran C<strong>as</strong>tle,inspiration <strong>as</strong> the abode of vampires, and be charmed bythe beautifully preserved hilltop town of Sighisoara andthe walled settlement of Sibiu which is crammed withcolourful houses.Elsewhere, gaze at the colourful frescoes of Bucovina orpamper yourself with a refreshing dip in a thermal springor mud bath.Storyto tell -DesWalshWhy I loveRomaniaI am always enamouredby beautiful Saxonyc<strong>as</strong>tles and Romaniabo<strong>as</strong>ts some of thevery best in the world.Transylvania, with itsfamous Bran C<strong>as</strong>tle, isa f<strong>as</strong>cinating area whichnever fails to charmme. When I’m inBucharest I loveto try and catcha performanceat the exquisiteAthenaeum.1000Romanian state firstmentioned in sources1859Wallach and Moldaviaprincipalities merge, formingmodern Romania1930sRise of f<strong>as</strong>cist “Iron Guard”m<strong>as</strong>s movement1940Romania cedes territory toHungary and USSR aftersigning of German-Soviet pact1463Vlad the Impaler, otherwiseknown <strong>as</strong> Count Dracula,becomes Prince of Wallachia1916-18Romania fights onAllied side during WWI1938King Carol II establishesdictatorship
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in RomaniaBucharest City Breaks4 days from £350pp twin-shareFirst stop h<strong>as</strong> to be the sprawlingParliament Palace, second onlyin size to the Pentagon. SuchCommunist excess contr<strong>as</strong>tswith the wealth of Belle Epoquebuildings, the glorious old quarter,Lipscani, also the centre of the city’spulsating nightlife. Take a wander inthe green lung of the city, CismigiuGardens, whose lake you can rowacross in the summer and skate onin the winter, attend a concert at theRomanian Athenaeum and samplesome down-to-earth Romanian fare.City break prices include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t,return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s andall airport taxes.Rural RomaniaGroup Tour10 days from £1580pp22 – 31 July 2013New for 2013 our Rural RomaniaGroup Tour travels off the beatentrack to painted mon<strong>as</strong>teries andfairytale c<strong>as</strong>tles. Travel to Bucovina,famous for its painted mon<strong>as</strong>teriesand incredible frescoes. Here weenjoy a cooking lesson in a village,plum brandy t<strong>as</strong>ting and dinnerwith a local artist. We also spendtime in Transylvania which offersc<strong>as</strong>tles and towns straight fromMedieval Germany or Hungary,and is the home of the legendaryVlad the Impaler, or Count Dracula<strong>as</strong> he is more popularly known.Behind the IronCurtain Group Tour8 days from £1699pp31 Aug – 7 Sep 2013Delve deep into the formercommunist countries of Romaniaand Moldova and uncover intriguingthrowbacks to Communism andbeautiful rural scenery. Meet withMr Postolachi, leader of the “15November” <strong>as</strong>sociation who willshare stories of the p<strong>as</strong>t. Experiencea night in an old communist hotelwith decor and service to match. InMoldova visit the History Museumof the Moldovan Communist Party,and meet with a Moldovan deportedduring Soviet times. An evening isspent in Cricova; one of the biggestunderground wineries in Europe.UKRAINEPrulMOLDOVAHUNGARYAradTimisoaraOradeaLipovaMuresTimisCaransebesResistaSERBIALugojCareiZalãuAlesdSatuMareC a r p a t i i O c c i d e n t a l iCluj-NapocaMotruDrobeta-Turnu SeverinC a r p a t i a n M o u n t a i n sSighisoaraSfântuMedi<strong>as</strong> GheorgheFagar<strong>as</strong>Sibiu Codlea Br<strong>as</strong>ovVârfulMoldoveanu2543 mCâmpulungC a r p a t i i M e r i d i o n a l iDanubeDejAlba IuliaDevaBorsaBaia MareTarnaveniAiudSebesOr<strong>as</strong>tieBistritaTurdaPetrosaniReghinJiuTârguMuresOltVedeaSuceavaCampulungBistritaVatraDorneiPiatraNeamtGeorgheniFalticeniR O M A N I AComânestiMiercurea-CiucCâmpinaBotosaniP<strong>as</strong>caniRomanBuhusiBacauRâmnicuSaratSiretOnestiFocsaniDanubeI<strong>as</strong>iBuzauIalomitaHusiV<strong>as</strong>luiBârladTecuciGalatiPrutMâcinIancaBrailaTulceaBabadagTargu-JiuRâmnicuPloiestiVâlceaHârsovaTârgoviste Urziceni TandareiPitesti GaestiSloboziaTituDrag<strong>as</strong>aniCotestiB<strong>as</strong>arabiBUCHARESTStrehaiaConstantaSlatina VideleCalar<strong>as</strong>iCraiovaBalsRosioriCaracalde VedeMangaliaAlexandriaGiurgiuCalafat BailestiPoiana Mare TurnuUKRAINEMouthsof theDanubeLaculRazimLaculSinoieBlackSeaBUCHARESTB U L G A R I ARomania - Perfect ForThe story of Dracula attracts a wide range of visitors; families with childrenwill lap up discovering the legend of the infamous Count while literary fanswill enjoy spotting the influences that inspired Bram Stoker. Bran C<strong>as</strong>tle, alongwith the many other beguiling period buildings to be found in rural Romania,will attract those who appreciate well-preserved, centuries-old architectureand traditional cultures.1944Romania switchessides <strong>as</strong> Sovietforces close in1955Romania joinsWarsaw Pact1989Bloody national uprising;Ceausescu and his wifecaught and executed onChristm<strong>as</strong> Day2007Romania joinsEuropean Union1941Romania fights alongsideGermany against the SovietUnion in WWII1945Soviet-backedgovernment installed1965Nicolae Ceausescu becomesCommunist Party leader2004Romania admittedto NATO41Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
TurkeyThe Inside StoryWhere do you start in a country like Turkey, where thep<strong>as</strong>t meets the present and modern blends with thetraditional? Choose between bustling cities, religiouscentres, Black Sea and Mediterranean co<strong>as</strong>t, naturalphenomena and ancient sites.Throw yourself into the hustle and bustle of Istanbul,straddling the Bosphorus with its Grand Bazaar andskyline of minarets. Witness the Whirling Dervishes inthe caravanserai town of Konya, visit one of the SevenWonders of the World in Bodrum and stroll along thepalm-lined promenade by the clear waters of theAegean in Izmir. The Anzac memorials to the fallen ofthe World War I battlefields at Gallipoli are soberingbut the Roman city of Ephesus and the site of the siegeof Troy are true wonders.Numerous other tre<strong>as</strong>ures await; underground cities,churches carved from rock, travertine pools, Romanruins and convivial locals who may invite you to join themin the hamam!Storyto tell -PeterWybrowWhy I loveTurkeyThere couldn’t be morecontr<strong>as</strong>t betweencosmopolitan Istanbuland laid-back Goreme.After the splendourand grand scale of thecapital’s iconic religiousbuildings, head to theCappadocia regionwhere the simplerock-cut churchesand their colourfulfrescoes will impressin an entirelydifferent way.7500 BCEarliest known human communityexists at Çatal Höyük330Emperor Constantine transfersRoman capital to Byzantium,renaming it Constantinople1000s-1200sBattling Crusaderarmies cross Anatolia1520-1566Reign of Sultan Süleymanthe Magnificent; the greatage of the Ottoman Empire1250 BCTrojan War foughtbetween the armiesof Troy and Achaea527-565Byzantine emperor Justinianbuilds the Hagia Sophia1288Warrior chieftain Osmanfounds the Ottoman Empire1909Abdul Hamid, the l<strong>as</strong>t of theOttoman sultans, is deposed
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in TurkeyDay 1 - IstanbulArrive in Istanbul and take amorning cruise on the Bosphorus.Visit the iconic Blue Mosque andthe beautiful Hagia Sophia Churchbefore finishing your day at TopkapiPalace, the sultan’s residence forover 400 years.Day 2 - Gallipoli to CanakkleHead to the WW1 battlefield ofGallipoli and visit the memorialsites of Anzac Cove, Lone Pine andthe Kabatepe War Museum. Thencross the Dardanelles by ferry to thehistoric town of Canakkale.Day 3 - Aegean Co<strong>as</strong>tTracing the Aegean co<strong>as</strong>t, visit thelegendary city of Troy then continueto Pergamum for a tour that includesvisits to the Acropolis, with itsfamous Altar of Zeus, the Asclepionand the Red B<strong>as</strong>ilica.Day 4 - Ephesus to Kusad<strong>as</strong>iSpend the day at the ancient ruins ofEphesus, home to one of the sevenwonders of the world, the Templeof Artemis, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the Templeof Hadrian and the fabled Libraryof Celsus.Day 5 - PammukaleContinue to Pammukale, stoppingen route at the ruins of Hierapolis,the cure centre founded in around160 BC by the King of Pergamum.See the extraordinary travertineterraces of precipitated calciumwhere visitors come to bathe inthe rich mineral waters.7 NightsFor those with more time, spendtwo extra days cruising down theMediterranean co<strong>as</strong>t on a traditionalTurkish Gulet. Begin at Fethiye andsail through the co<strong>as</strong>tline via someof the beautiful islands en routebefore ending your tour at Marmarisharbour.9 NightsFor a further extension, head to theincredible Cappadocia region. Visitthe Goreme Open Air Museum withits carved cave churches, the uniquerock formations of the Zelve Valleyand the natural fortress at Uchisar.You will also have time to visit theancient underground cities in theNevsehir Province.ANKARAGEORGIABULGARIAInebolu SinopArtvinRizeARMENIAEdirneBafraTrabzonZonguldakIstanbulMerzifonSamsunKarabükOrduKarsBuyukagriTekirdagDagiGREECEAdapazariAm<strong>as</strong>yaBayburtCankiri5137 mIzmit BoluÇorumTokalErzurum KarakoseBandirmaErzincanCanakkaleBursa ANKARAYozgat Siv<strong>as</strong>Tatvan VanEdremit Balikesir EskisehirKirikkaleBingölTURKEYKütahyaElazigIRANKebanGölüAkisharKirsehirMusTuzBarajtAfyonKayseriDiyarbakirManisaMalatyaUsakGölüAksehir3.916IzmirAksarayElbistanSiirtBatmanNazilliNigdeIRAQAegeanDinarSilverek MardinIsparta KonyaAydinBeysehirSeaSökeKahramanmar<strong>as</strong> ShanhurfaDenizli BurdurOsmaniye GaziantepMuglaKaramanMersin TarsusAntalyaIskenderunAlanyaAntakyaSYRIAFinikeDardanellesMarmaraDeniziIstanbul BogaziB l a c k S e aKure DaglariA n a t o l i aP l a t e a u Erciy<strong>as</strong>Mediterranean SeaKizil IrmakTaurus MountainsKelkit CaytÉuphratesDogu KaradenizDaglariGüneydogu ToroslarMurat NehriAr<strong>as</strong>VanTurkey - Perfect ForFor those seeking a t<strong>as</strong>te of the exotic without the long haul flight, Turkeypromises to deliver. A true melting pot of e<strong>as</strong>t meets west, history-lovers willdelight in the tales of the Byzantines, Ottomans and Turks brought to life inIstanbul’s splendid mosques, palaces and bazaars. Those heading out of thecity to explore Turkey’s diverse landscapes will be following in the footstepsof the many ancient civilisations that helped to shape this culturally diversenation at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.1915Thousands of Anzactroops killed duringWWI Gallipoli campaign1923Turkish National Movementgains independence withAtatürk <strong>as</strong> first president.1984Kurdistan Workers’Party launches separatistguerrilla war2005EU membershipnegotiationsofficially launched1918WWI leads to defeat of theOttomans and great loss ofterritory1928Turkey becomes seculardemocracy, removingIslam <strong>as</strong> state religion1993Tansu Ciller becomesTurkey’s first womanprime minister43Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
GermanyThe Inside StoryGermany is not just at the geographical centre of Europe,it is also its economic driving force and perhaps its culturalheart too. Its contribution to the arts, science, philosophy,architecture and history is arguably unmatched throughoutEurope and should never be underestimated.Explore the iconic city of Berlin and feel history come aliveat landmarks such <strong>as</strong> the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gateand Checkpoint Charlie, while places such <strong>as</strong> the HolocaustMemorial and the Topography of Terror museum, whichstands on the ruins of the SS headquarters, provide solemnreminders of Germany’s turbulent p<strong>as</strong>t.Visit the resurgent city of Dresden where the gorgeousRenaissance and Baroque architecture h<strong>as</strong> been restoredto its former glory, establishing the city <strong>as</strong> an enchantingand cultured destination. Discover the palatial glamourof Potsdam with its f<strong>as</strong>cinating place in history <strong>as</strong> a keygateway between the Allies and the Soviets followingWorld War II.Storyto tell -JoanneWheelerWhy I loveGermanyFor me, Berlin makesthe perfect city breakdestination – therestaurants and cafesin the f<strong>as</strong>hionable Mitteand Prenzlauer Bergneighbourhoods are theideal place to watch theworld go by after a busyday of sight-seeing.843Germany emerges <strong>as</strong> separaterealm after break-up of Frankishempire1871Wilhelm I crownedfirst Kaiser of theGerman Empire1919Treaty of Versailles endsWWI; Rhineland placedunder Allied occupation1933Hindenburg appointsHitler <strong>as</strong> chancellor andWeimar Republic becomesone-party state1806Napoleon’s armiesimpose French rule overmuch of Germany1914WWI begins; Germanydeclares war on Russiaand France1923National Socialist GermanWorkers Party attemptunsuccessful coup led by Hitler1935Nuremberg Lawsdeprive German Jewsof citizenship
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in GermanyCity Breaks in BerlinFrom £345pp twin-shareOnce a divided city, Berlin isborn again <strong>as</strong> an energetic placeattractive to the young for itsever-changing social scene andto those keen to discover moreabout its f<strong>as</strong>cinating recenthistory. Take to the rail networkor the evocative trams and exploresymbols of reunification such <strong>as</strong> theBrandenburg Gate, the Reichstagand museums about the BerlinWall, Checkpoint Charlie and lifebehind the Iron Curtain. Dress upfor the opera and the philharmonicorchestra or dance late into thenight to contemporary live music.Brandenburg HofHHHHHWhy not indulge yourself while inBerlin with a stay in this opulent5-star hotel, one of the best inGermany. The 58 rooms and14 suites are the epitome ofcontemporary style, exquisitecomfort and <strong>as</strong>sured timelesselegance. This sumptuous 1900City Palais is Berlin’s finestprivately–owned hotel, an o<strong>as</strong>isof harmony and light, tuckedaway in a quiet road close to theKurfürstendamm. The intimateMichelin starred ‘Die Quadriga’Restaurant dazzles with finestculinary art and the tre<strong>as</strong>ure troveof 850 German wines will impressthe most discerning palate.Germany Group toursVisit our website for full details ofour group tours in Germany.Cl<strong>as</strong>sic Germany Group Tour9 days from £1295ppFrankfurt, Weimer, Dresden,Potsdam, Berlin, Hamburg andmore.Highlights of Germany Tour15 days from £2335pp9 day plus Wurzburg, Fuessen,Black Forest, Heidelburg and more.Festive Christm<strong>as</strong> Markets8 days from £1145ppFrankfurt, Black Forest, Fussen,Munich, Salzburg, Nuremburg andmore.FlensburgNorthKielerNorthSchleswigBay ofFrisian IsBucht MecklemburgoRendsburg KielBay ofSea Gulf ofStralsundHeidePomeramiaE<strong>as</strong>t HelgolandDamgarten GreifswaldRostockFrisian Is CuxhavenLübeckWismarBremerhaven NorderstedtWilhemshavenMalchinSchwerineEmdenHamburgP<strong>as</strong>ewalkMüritz NeustrelitzOldenburgLüneburgLudwigslustPrenzlauBremenWittstockVerden UelzenNeuruppinPOLANDLingenNienburgCelleEberswaldeStendalNETHERLANDSOsnabrückWolfsburgBrandenburg BERLINRheineFrankfurtHannover BraunschweigPotsdam an derHerfordMünsterMagdeburgOderBielefeld HalberstadtLuckenwaldeWeselHammHöxterDessau LutherstadtDuisburgPaderbornWittenberg CottbusDortmundKrefeld EssenArnsbergGöttingen HalleTorgauDüsseldorf K<strong>as</strong>selMühlhausenLeipzigLeverkusenRiesa Bautzen GörlitzKölnEisenachSiegenErfurtMarburgBonnGothaJenaDresdenGeraBELGIUM G E R M A N YChemnitzNeuwiedWetzlarGiessen FuldaZwickauMeiningenKoblenzPlauenFrankfurtBitburgCoburgam MainHofWiesbaden OfenbachLUXEMBOURGTrier Mainz am MainBamberg Bayreuth CZECHDarmstadtWürzsburgREPUBLICKaiserlautenMannheimErlangenHeidelberg FürthSaarbrückenNürembergHeilbronn AnsbachRothChamKarlsruheRegensburgStuttgartAalenFRANCESindelfingen DonauwörthIngolstadtDeggendorfReutlingenGünzburgLandshut P<strong>as</strong>sauUlm AusburgFriburgVillingenim BreisgauMunichTuttlingenAUSTRIAChiemseeFriedrichshafenKempten RosenheimGarmisch-BadLakePartenkirchen ReichenhallSWITZERLAND ConstanceSaalMoselRheinRheinSchwarzwaldDENMARKFuldaLIECHTENSTEINWeserLechElbeMainMädelegabel2645 mDonauIsarElbeBavarian AlpsBalticSeaErgebirgeInnBohemian ForestWatzmann2713 mOderSpreeBERLINGermany - Perfect ForBudding historians could spend months in Germany poring over the veritabletre<strong>as</strong>ure trove of historical landmarks, museums, medieval villages, c<strong>as</strong>tlesand palaces here. From the renaissance and the Kingdoms of Bavaria andPrussia to two World Wars and the rise and fall of Communism, Germany’shistory is <strong>as</strong> deep and tumultuous <strong>as</strong> it is f<strong>as</strong>cinating. Meanwhile, bon vivantswill be enticed by the many g<strong>as</strong>tronomic delights here, with high-quality beerand delicious meaty fare to be found on any menu.1939Germany invades Polandtriggering World War II;millions die in the NaziHolocaust1949Germany divided into FederalRepublic in the west andCommunist GDR in the e<strong>as</strong>t1961Berlin Wallconstructed2002Euro replacesDeutschmark1945Germany surrendersand the Allies dividethe country1955West Germany joinsNATO, E<strong>as</strong>t Germanyjoins Warsaw Pact1989Berlin Wall torn down;reunification formallyconcluded in 19902005Angela Merkel becomesfirst female chancellor ina “grand coalition”45Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
AustriaThe Inside StoryAustria is celebrated for its stunning alpine landscapes,wooden chalets, winter sports activities and being theubiquitous location for the filming of ‘The Sound of Music’.Away from the Tyrolean countryside, Austria’s imperial capital,Vienna, enjoys a world-renowned reputation <strong>as</strong> much for itscoffee houses and delicate p<strong>as</strong>tries <strong>as</strong> its lavish balls, wherenights are waltzed away to the melodies of its native Mozartand Strauss within the walls of ornate Habsburg palaces.With fifty theatres, four opera houses and a hundredmuseums including The Museum Quarter, opportunitiesto embrace Vienna’s cultural delights abound. In April, theLong Night of The Museums sees some of the city’s bestmuseums staying open p<strong>as</strong>t midnight staging concerts,exhibitions and parties.Discover the Baroque delights of Salzburg and the upand-comingLinz for a t<strong>as</strong>te of a more youthful Austria andenjoy an enthralling combination of culture and history atsites such <strong>as</strong> the Roman town of Carnuntum and the idyllicBregenzerwald.Storyto tell -JoanneWheelerWhy I loveAustriaAustria is full ofbreathtaking sceneryand gorgeous towns butVienna will always hold <strong>as</strong>pecial place in my heart.Its streets are an array ofsplendid museums, grandpalaces and wonderfulrestaurants. Particularlyspecial is the ImperialNew Year’s Eve ball –for those with twoleft feet, opt to havea private waltz lessonprior to the ball to besure to impress!962Otto I of Germanycrowned <strong>as</strong> Emperorof Holy Roman Empire1648Habsburgs declareRoman Catholicismofficial Austrian religion1867Dual-Monarchy ofAustria-Hungary established1914Ass<strong>as</strong>sination of heir to Austrianthrone, Archduke FranzFerdinand, precipitates WWI1278Rudolf I – the first of19 Habsburg Emperors –comes to power1782Mozart’s opera DieEntführung aus dem Serailpremiers in Vienna1881Sigmund Freud graduatesfrom the University of Vienna1918Collapse of HabsburgEmpire; Austriabecomes Republic ofGerman-Austria
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in AustriaVienna City breaksFrom £380 pp twin-shareWith no shortage of sights,sounds and flavours to sample,the hardest part of a Vienna citybreak is knowing where to start!Discover Gothic St Stephen’sCathedral, explore the grandMuseum Quarter, stroll throughthe wonderful Baroque gardensof Schonbrunn Palace and visitHofburg Imperial Palace. Take aride on the Prater Ferris Wheel,indulge in a coffee and p<strong>as</strong>try in acoffeehouse, try Vienna’s signaturedish, Wiener Schnitzel, in a buzzingbeer garden and mingle with thebeautiful people by spl<strong>as</strong>hing out ona ticket for the Vienna State Opera.Hotel Post HHHJust a few minutes walk fromSt Stephen’s Cathedral you willreceive typical Austrian hospitalityin the traditional style. Locatedclose to a metro station, the HotelPost is ideally suited for budgettravellers who expect a certainlevel of comfort without all thefrills. This is certainly our mostpopular value-for-money hotel.The Ring HHHHHThe 5-star Ring Hotel offers guestsan exceptional level of luxury. Youwill be treated <strong>as</strong> honoured guests,enjoying a personal level of service.Located in a prestigious part ofVienna, close to the Ringstr<strong>as</strong>se <strong>as</strong>well <strong>as</strong> the Vienna State Opera, thehistorical facade h<strong>as</strong> been retainedwhilst the interior is modern andelegant.GmundCZECH REPUBLICConstanceLakeLIECHT.BregenzFeldkirchBludenzSWITZERLANDVIENNALechtaler AlpsÓtzaler AlpsWildspitze3768 mGERMANYT I R O LInnZillertaler AlpsBrennerP<strong>as</strong>sSalzburgKitzbühlerSchwazInnsbruckITALYBraunauam InnGrossglockner3798 mTraunAtterseeSalzburger AlpsKItzbüheler AlpsH o h e Ta u e r nLienzGailtaler AlpsKarnichsche AlpsPlöckenP<strong>as</strong>sBadIschlZwettlSLOVAKIAKrems ander DonauStockerauLinzKolsteneuburgVIENNAWelsMödlingSteyrSt. PöltenBadenEnnsN i e d e r e Ta u e r nSpittal ander DrauMurGurktalerAlpsMillstätterSeeLiezenDanubeAUSTRIAWiener NeustadtTernitzBruck anLeoben der MurKnittelfeldJudenburgLavantWolfsbergKlagenfurtVillachSLOVENIAGrazFeistritzDanubeNeustedlerSeeEisenstadtHUNGARYAustria - Perfect ForAustria h<strong>as</strong> enjoyed a centuries-long reputation for being a world-renownedcultural powerhouse, so aesthetes will be in cultural heaven with the sheerquantity and quality of galleries, museums, concert halls, opera houses andtheatres in Vienna. More active travellers will be kept busy by the spectaculardelights of the Alps whatever the se<strong>as</strong>on, from first-cl<strong>as</strong>s skiing in the wintermonths to hiking and cycling when the mountains are a little greener.1934Government crushes Socialistuprising; all political partiesabolished except Fatherland Front1945Austrian territory dividedbetween Allies followingGermany’s WWII defeat1983Socialists and Freedom Partyform coalition governmentunder Fred Sinowatz1995Austria joins the EU1938The Anschluss; Austriaincorporated into NaziGermany by Hitler1955Austrian State Treatyestablishes an independentand neutral Austria1999Far-right FreedomParty wins 27% of votein national elections2001Deal signed oncompensating Jewswhose <strong>as</strong>sets wereseized by Nazis47Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
HungaryThe Inside StoryHungary is packed with variety, from bird-watching, cyclingand horse riding to relaxing in thermal sp<strong>as</strong> and exploringmagnificently preserved cities.Lake Balaton is a must but don’t neglect the other moreoff-the-beaten-track towns and regions such <strong>as</strong> medievalSopron, 2010 European Capital of Culture, Pecs, or one ofthe lesser-known villages in the many wine-growing regions.With a rich and varied culture, cl<strong>as</strong>sical notes fromcomposers such <strong>as</strong> Béla Bartók and Franz Liszt livein harmony with traditional gypsy rhapsodies andcontemporary beats in Hungary’s capital city, Budapest.From the imposing c<strong>as</strong>tle view the romantic Danube River<strong>as</strong> it dramatically splits the capital in two, or enjoy comfortfood at its best in a cosy restaurant with the smell of rusticpaprika-infused goul<strong>as</strong>h filling the air. A flourishing of thearts and the re-establishment of fine restaurants and shopsall bear witness to Budapest’s re-emergence <strong>as</strong> a city ofculture and style.Storyto tell -PeterWybrowWhy I loveHungaryI love Hungary becauseyou can combine thefaded romance of itscapital city with thebeautiful countrysideoutside it. For a t<strong>as</strong>te oflocal life, I loved playingchess at the Turkishera thermal baths inBudapest.9th CMagyars underPrince Arpad settleDanube plain1241Mongol inv<strong>as</strong>iondev<strong>as</strong>tates largeparts of Hungary1699Austrian Habsburgsunder Leopold Iexpel Turks1914Hungary fights onlosing side in WWI; themonarchy collapses1920Trianon Treaty reducesHungary’s area by two thirdsand population by one third1000Stephen I, first Christianking of Hungary,expands control overCarpathian b<strong>as</strong>in1526Battle of Mohacs; OttomanTurks establish control overmost of the country1867Hungary becomesautonomous partnerin Austro-Hungarian Empire1918Austro-Hungarian Empirebroken up; Hungarianrepublic proclaimedfollowing revolution
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in HungaryBudapest City BreaksFrom £295pp twin-shareBudapest offers many uniqueexamples of Baroque, Neo-Cl<strong>as</strong>sical and Art Nouveauarchitecture from the Hungarian‘Golden Age’. Split by the mightyDanube, the city looks best atsunset and a stroll along theriverbank is the perfect way to soakup the romantic atmosphere.Hungary’s progressive capitalproudly bo<strong>as</strong>ts the splendour ofthe C<strong>as</strong>tle District, across theDanube’s ornate Chain Bridge inBuda, with its Royal Palace, GothicMatthi<strong>as</strong> Church and fairy-taleFisherman’s B<strong>as</strong>tion.3, 4 and 5-star options available.Hotel Palazzo ZichyHHHHFormerly the residence of aHungarian noble, this wonderfullyornate 19th-century boutiquehotel is a real ple<strong>as</strong>ure for a shortstay in Budapest. The hotel mayooze history but the facilities aredefinitely contemporary. Closeto the Grand Boulevard, this isone of our most popular hotels inBudapest and ranked in the top 2on Trip Advisor.Hotel CorinthiaHHHHHLocated in the heart of Budapest,this is the perfect hotel for thoselooking for a mix of timeless grandeurand modern luxury. Beautifullyrestored from the old Grand HotelRoyal, the choice of excellentrestaurants is overwhelming and avisit to the Royal Spa is a wonderfultreat. We recommend up-grading toan executive room for a real touchof cl<strong>as</strong>s.BUDAPESTAUSTRIARábaDanubeB a k o n y M t s .DrávaHronDanubeSalgótarjánMatraBükkKacincbarzikaMosonmagyaróvarVácDebrecenSopron GyõrDunakesziKapuvár TatabányaJászberényBUDAPESTKarcagÉrdPápaSzombathely SárvárCeglédSzolnokSzékésfehérvárAjkaVárpalota H U N G A R Y MezotúrVeszprémKörmendDunaújváros KecskemétBalatonfüredSiófokBékéscsabaZalaegerszegLakeBalatonKiskunfélegyházaGyulaKeszthelySzentesPaksOrosházaSLOVENIANagykanizsaKaposvárCROATIASzigetvárS L O V A K I ABarcsKomlóDombóvárPécsSzekszárdBajaMohácsÓzdKiskunhal<strong>as</strong>SzegedSERBIAEgerKörösMiskolcTiszaBerttyöHódmezovásárhelyMakóNyíregyházaROMANIAHungary - Perfect ForWith its 22 wine regions, Hungary is a great place for wine buffs. For thosenot venturing far from Budapest, head to the House of Hungarian Wines nearBuda C<strong>as</strong>tle to sample one of their 500 wines on display. E<strong>as</strong>ily accessible,Hungary is also a perfect platform from which to peel back the Iron Curtainand discover the rest of what E<strong>as</strong>tern Europe h<strong>as</strong> to offer.1945Soviet forces driveGermans out of Hungary1949New constitution makesHungary a workers’ andpe<strong>as</strong>ants’ state1989Border with Austriaopened; the ‘IronCurtain’ is breached1994Former communistsand liberals formcoalition followingelections1941WWII - Hungarydeclares war onthe Soviet Union1947Communists consolidatepower; Hungary alignsitself more and morewith Soviet Union1956National uprising:Soviet forcescrush the rebels &thousands are killed1991Soviet forceswithdraw fromHungary and WarsawPact is dissolved2004Hungary one of10 new states tojoin EU49Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Czech RepublicThe Inside StoryAn impressive twelve UNESCO sites sets the CzechRepublic apart from its European neighbours. A rich culturalheritage prevails in Bohemia and Moravia, the two ancientlands which now make up the modern Czech Republic. Itscountryside provides the ideal location for active holidayssuch <strong>as</strong> cycling or skiing, or for more relaxing pursuits headto one of the many sp<strong>as</strong> on offer.Prague is a city best explored on foot; take in the manymuseums and galleries, admire the well-preservedarchitecture of the Old Town and walk across CharlesBridge to the imposing Hradcany C<strong>as</strong>tle and St VitusCathedral, where cl<strong>as</strong>sical concerts are often heardbooming from its atmospheric chambers.There’s more to the Czech Republic than just Praguehowever. Make sure to also visit Ceský Krumlov, amagnificent old city of crooked alleys and cobbled streets,where a visit to the 13th-century Gothic c<strong>as</strong>tle providesbreathtaking views.Storyto tell -AndreaGodfreyWhy I love theCzech RepublicI enjoy visiting Prague’sMuseum of Communismto get a t<strong>as</strong>te of what itw<strong>as</strong> like to live under 40years of communist rule.Scenes from daily life,school and the factorydepict how persu<strong>as</strong>iveCommunismw<strong>as</strong>, with aninterrogationroom createdfor citizens whodared raise theirheads abovethe parapet.1085Vratislav II becomesfirst Czech king, startingPremyslid dyn<strong>as</strong>ty1414Religious and socialreformer Jan Hus formsa movement later namedafter him1939Nazi inv<strong>as</strong>ion of Czechlands, which becomea German protectorate1946CzechoslovakCommunist Party (CPCz)leader Klement Gottwaldbecomes prime minister1316Golden Age of Czechhistory begins underreign of King Charles IV1918Republic of Czechoslovakiaproclaimed; Tom<strong>as</strong> M<strong>as</strong>arykelected president1945Soviet troopsenter Prague1960Czechoslovakia becomesCzechoslovak SocialistRepublic under newconstitution
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in the Czech RepublicDay 1-2 - PragueRelatively untouched duringWWII, much of Prague’s stunningarchitecture h<strong>as</strong> been preservedintact. Take a walk along the cobbledstreets of the Old Town andmeander across Charles Bridge forspectacular panoramic views of the‘city of 100 spires’.Day 3-4 - Karlovy VaryThe world famous spa town ofKarlovy Vary, situated in a greenvalley of the River Teplá, w<strong>as</strong>founded in 1350 by the Czech Kingand Holy Roman Emperor CharlesIV. Karlovy Vary’s famous visitorshave included C<strong>as</strong>anova, Beethoven,Mozart and Franz Kafka.Day 5-6 - Mariánské LázneMariánské Lázne is the secondlargest Czech spa with 40 springs inthe town and 100 in the surroundingarea. No visit would be completewithout a visit to the town’s theatreor a performance of the WestBohemia Symphony Orchestra.Day 7-8 - Cesky KrumlovEnjoy the stunning beauty of thissmall medieval town and exploreits narrow alleys with its manyrestaurants and little cafes. In theevening, experience the legendaryRevolving Theatre or take a trip toCeske Budejovice, well known forthe beer brewed there since the13th Century.Day 9-10 - JindrichuvHradecContinue to Jindrichuv Hradec withits city c<strong>as</strong>tle and palace. There are320 rooms with more than 10,000works of art and books. Visit thetown’s many churches and themarketplace with its pristine Gothiccity hall.Call a <strong>Regent</strong> Czech RepublicSpecialist to create the perfectIndividual Tour, Fly-Drive or PragueCity Break for you.PRAGUETachovGERMANYChebGERMANYChomutovKarlovyVaryPlzenMostBerounDomazliceKlatovyStrakoniceKladnoRokycanyDecín LiberecUstí nadLabemJilinMladáMëlnikBoleslavBenesovVltavaPísekCeskéBudejovicePRAGUEHavlickuvJihlavaTáborBlanskoJindrichuvHradecHradecKrálovéPardubiceSumperkChrudimSvitavyZnojmoTrutnovCZECH REPUBLICTrebicDyjePOLANDMoravaOlomucVyskovBrnoBreclavBruntálOpavaOstravaNovyJicÍnPrerovFrydek-MistekVsetínSLOVAKIAAUSTRIACzech Republic - Perfect ForWith its labyrinthine streets, cosy nooks and fairytale c<strong>as</strong>tles, Prague is trulya city for romantics and appreciators of dramatic architecture alike. Praguew<strong>as</strong> also Kafka’s birthplace and inspiration, so literary fans will find plentyto write home about. Outside of the city, those looking for a change of pacewill find solace in resplendent Bohemian spa towns such <strong>as</strong> Karlovy Vary.1968Prague Spring isfollowed by Soviet-ledWarsaw Pact inv<strong>as</strong>ion1993“Velvet Divorce” results inindependence for CzechRepublic and Slovakia1999Becomes fullmember of NATO2011Vaclav Havel dies; statefuneral is attended bymany world leaders1989Velvet Revolution;Communism collapses1995US-funded Radio FreeEurope/Radio Libertyrelocates from Munichto Prague2004Becomes one of 10new nations to jointhe EU2013Czech Republiccelebrates 20 yearsof independence51Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
4 CapitalCitiesPrague, Vienna,Bratislava &BudapestTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality11 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-round52This horizon-broadening itinerary visitsthe capitals of the Czech Republic, Austria,Slovakia and Hungary. Compare and contr<strong>as</strong>teach of these cities with their Habsburginfluences, fine dining and wide choice ofexcellent museums.Spanning 11 days, this tour will allow you tocomprehensively discover Europe at its mostenchanting in a relatively short space of time.With a fragrant bouquet of glittering palaces,medieval c<strong>as</strong>tles, opera houses, world-cl<strong>as</strong>stheatres, galleries, markets and more vyingfor your attention at every turn, you willencounter an almost overwhelming wealthof tre<strong>as</strong>ures.Using local trains and the hydrofoil that linksVienna and Bratislava, this itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>edon good standard 3 and 4-star hotels but wecan include different categories of hotels.The hydrofoils usually operate daily from thebeginning of May to the end of September.Day 1 Fly to PragueFly to Prague and transfer to hotel for 3nights.Day 2-3 PragueFree days to explore the cultural charms ofPrague or book optional excursions. It is e<strong>as</strong>yto see why this jewel in the crown of CentralEuropean capitals is still a firm favourite. Insummer the city buzzes with street theatreand open-air cafés, autumn mists give it aromantic haze, in winter the Christm<strong>as</strong>markets equal any in Germany and the PragueSpring Music Festival dominates May. (B)Day 4 Prague to ViennaTake the day train from Prague to Vienna andcheck into hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 5 ViennaFree days to explore the Habsburg city ofVienna or book optional excursions. Thehardest part is knowing where to start inVienna. Choose from Gothic St Stephen’sCathedral, the grand Museum Quarter,Hofburg Imperial Palace and the SpanishRiding School. For some light relief take aride on the Prater Ferris Wheel and strollthrough the wonderful Baroque gardens ofSchönbrunn Palace. Indulge in a coffee andp<strong>as</strong>try in a coffeehouse or try the signaturedish, Wiener Schnitzel, in a buzzing beergarden. (B)Day 6 Vienna to BratislavaTake the hydrofoil to Bratislava and check intohotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 7 BratislavaFree day to explore Bratislava or book optionalexcursions. Compared with other Europeancapital cities, Bratislava may at first appearrelatively unimpressive. However, dig a littledeeper and you will find that Bratislava’s oldtown is rich in culture. The city h<strong>as</strong> elegantbuildings, churches, cathedrals and finerestaurants that rival any in Europe. (B)Day 8 Bratislava to BudapestTake the day train to Budapest and check intohotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 9-10 BudapestFree day to explore Budapest or book optionalexcursions. The mighty Danube cuts a swathethrough the heart of Budapest and loverswander along the banks, sampling outdoorcafés. Gypsy violinists still serenade dinersand a stay in the city would not be completewithout spoiling yourself at one of the manysp<strong>as</strong>. (B)Day 11 Budapest to UKFree morning or day, depending on time offlight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £799Single room supplement £315Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Arrival transfer in Prague• Second cl<strong>as</strong>s train ticket, Prague toVienna, Bratislava to Budapest• Hydrofoil tickets, Vienna to BratislavaPrices exclude• Other transfersCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
PragueCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsThe Czechs are a carnivorous bunchand Prague bo<strong>as</strong>ts a v<strong>as</strong>t rangeof restaurants serving delectablemeaty fare. One of our favourites isthe Kolkovna Celnice on V Celnici 4.Its ‘Old Bohemian’ dish comes with aquarter of a duck, Moravian Sparrow,beer sausage, smoked pork, cabbage,dumplings and potato, and is fit forseveral hungry kings.Getting thereFlights: British Airways direct fromLondon HeathrowDepartures: DailyFlight duration: 2 hoursRegional departures: Add ons fromAberdeen, Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow,Manchester and Newc<strong>as</strong>tle – ple<strong>as</strong>econtact us for detailsE<strong>as</strong>yjet fly from Bristol, Robin HoodAirport Donc<strong>as</strong>ter-Sheffield, LondonGatwick and Stansted. Wizz Air fly fromLuton. We can book these airlines <strong>as</strong>part of your packageBusiness Cl<strong>as</strong>s Supplement:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Transfer: Prague Ruzyne Airport to citycentre – 20 kilometres. Journey time isaround 25 to 35 minutesPrivate transfer price:£30 per car one-way (1-2 persons)£56 per car one-way (3-6 persons)VISA: Not required for EU p<strong>as</strong>sportholdersPricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with BritishAirways and all airport taxes.When to goThroughout the year, Prague offers a widerepertoire of world cl<strong>as</strong>s opera, ballet andcl<strong>as</strong>sical concerts, all of which are widelyadvertised across the city. For something abit more light-hearted, the Prague E<strong>as</strong>terMarkets, running from 16 March – 07 April2013, sees the Old Town Square andWencesl<strong>as</strong> Square decked out with over100 colourful stalls and stages displayingtraditional handicrafts, folk performancesand all manner of delicious Czech foodand drink.Hotel Cloister InnPrices from £325pp twin-shareA <strong>Regent</strong> favourite, we continue to recommendthis hotel because of its location close to CharlesBridge and the good feedback we receive fromclients. The hotel h<strong>as</strong> just been carefully andt<strong>as</strong>tefully renovated, reflecting the fact that itis built on the site of a medieval convent.Hotel LeonardoPrices from £355pp twin-shareA stay at this converted Post House, an elegantand sophisticated 4-star hotel just a few stepsfrom the Charles Bridge, is one of indulgence.The t<strong>as</strong>tefully decorated rooms are all furnishedwith antiques reflecting Prague’s rich heritage.All guests enjoy a high level of personal service.Hotel ParizPrices from £385pp twin-shareThe 5-star family-run Hotel Pariz Prague w<strong>as</strong>built in 1904, and the Art Nouveau décorthroughout reflects the period. Just a shortwalk from many main attractions and Wencesl<strong>as</strong>Square, you may be reluctant to leave thisdelightful hotel with its choice of restaurantsand spa.Hotel VentanaPrices from £455pp twin-shareSuperbly located in the historical heart ofPrague just a few steps from the iconic OldTown Square, this stylish Art Nouveau hoteloffers an attractive combination of luxury andconvenience, with 29 impeccably appointedrooms and friendly and approachable staff.53Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
SlovakiaThe Inside StoryWith the majestic Tatra Mountains providing a stunningbackdrop to rolling lowlands, fairytale c<strong>as</strong>tles, folkloricvillages, ancient ruins and resplendent spa towns, Slovakiapossesses an untainted beauty that is becoming incre<strong>as</strong>inglydifficult to find in Central Europe, and visitors are slowlywaking up to the many cultural and historical highlightsthat can be found here.Visit the Baroque m<strong>as</strong>terpiece of Bratislava, Slovakia’scapital city, with its authentic Old Town, a grandiose c<strong>as</strong>tle,and an abundance of palaces, cathedrals and museums, allwonderfully perched beside the magnificent Danube River.Outside of the city there are many more tre<strong>as</strong>ures todiscover; the spa town of Piestan, traditional villagesperched high up in the alpine High Tatr<strong>as</strong>, the picturesqueSpis region which is home to the largest medieval ruin inCentral Europe, the fairytale c<strong>as</strong>tle of Oravsky Podzamokand the UNESCO-listed ancient mining town of BanskaStiavnica are just some of the highlights.Storyto tell -JoanneWheelerWhy I loveSlovakiaSlovakia offerseverything from naturaland historical beautiesto friendly people anddelicious food. You canvisit the most f<strong>as</strong>cinatingplaces within a few daysbut also spend yearshere and still discoversomething new everyday. Whenever I visitBratislava I love towalk its romanticstreets and along thebanks of the Danube.833Constitution of the GreatMoravian Empire – the firstreal Slavic political entity16th CBecomes part of theHabsburg Empire1918Becomes part of theCzechoslovak Republic1948Beginning of thecommunist era1536Bratislava becomes acapital of HungarianEmpire1843Ludovit Stur, leader of Slovaknational revival, codifies theSlovak language1939First Slovak Republicconstituted underinfluence of Germany1968Prague Spring followedby the inv<strong>as</strong>ion of WarsawPact countries
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in SlovakiaCapital of Culture2013 will see Slovakia play host tothe prestigious European Capitalof Culture for the first time. Theaccolade h<strong>as</strong> gone to the country’ssecond city, Košice, which h<strong>as</strong> spentthe p<strong>as</strong>t couple of years busilyrestoring many of its landmarks,including the Gothic St Catherine’sCathedral, and organising a raft ofexciting cultural events spanning thewhole year. This will be a very specialtime to visit.Little Big CountrySlovakia may not be the largestcountry in Europe but what it lacksin size it more than makes up for incultural, natural and historical heft.Bo<strong>as</strong>ting an impressive 7 UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites, including theprimeval beech forests and woodenchurches of the Carpathians, themagnificent c<strong>as</strong>tle ruins of Spisand the fortified medieval town ofBardejov,Great heightsFor those for whom the Alps havebecome a little too predictable, thespectacular High Tatr<strong>as</strong> in the northof Slovakia offer a wholly refreshingalpine experience. The skiing,climbing and hiking opportunitiesare first-cl<strong>as</strong>s but many come hereto just unwind and marvel at thebreathtaking scenery of serenemountain lakes, snow-cappedpeaks, swathes of forest and roaringwaterfalls.Folklore FunFew countries uphold and celebratetheir traditions <strong>as</strong> much <strong>as</strong> Slovakiaand it’s highly recommended thatyou acquaint yourself with itsvarious cultural quirks. Head tothe historical Liptov region in thenorth where you will find open-airmuseums displaying typical folkarchitecture and costume <strong>as</strong> well<strong>as</strong> folk workshops in which youcan learn crafts such <strong>as</strong> weaving,bobbing and wood carving. The firstweekend of July sees the region hostVychodna – one of Slovakia’s biggestfolklore festivals.Ask a <strong>Regent</strong> Slovakia Specialist tocreate the perfect Individual Touror Fly-Drive for you.POLANDCadcaBardejovCZECH REPUBLICBeskidZilina MountainsGerlachovsky2655 mTatra Mountains KezmarokPovazskáMartinPresov HumennéBystricaLiptovsky Poprad SpisskáVranov nad ToplouMikulásNová VesTrencín SLOVAKIABreznoMichalovceSkalica PrievidzaKosiceBanskáTrebisovBebravouBystricaRoznavaUKRAINESenicaPiestanyZvolenMoravaMalackyAUSTRIABRATISLAVAVáhDanubeHronTrnavaNitra Zlaté Moravce LucenecPezinokGalantaLeviceBRATISLAVA SuranyDunajskáStredaNovéZámkyHronKomárnoSLOVAKIAIpelSlovenske RudohorieRimavskáSobotaHUNGARYToplaTorysaLaborecSlovakia - Perfect ForNature lovers and hikers will feel well at home in Slovakia with the abundanceof untamed wildlife, flora and fauna to be found around its scenic mountainranges and alpine lakes. Whilst anyone wishing to explore the history of theCommunist era will find plenty of Soviet relics to keep them busy in Bratislava.1989Velvet Revolutionheralds end of thecommunist era1995Treaty of Friendshipand Cooperation signedwith Hungary2002Wins gold at the Ice HockeyWorld Championships2007Withdraws l<strong>as</strong>t troopsfrom Iraq2012Leftist oppositionparty wins landslidevictory in generalelection1993Czechoslovakia splitscreating independentSlovak republic1999Pro-Western RudolfSchuster wins first directpresidential elections2004One of 10 new statesto join the EU2009Adopts the euro55Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
SlovakiaFly-DriveTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysFly-driveExplore at LeisureYear-roundExplore Slovakia at your own pace and enjoya comprehensive and close-up glimpse of thisrelatively undiscovered gem on this uniquefly-drive holiday.Beginning in the enchanting capital ofBratislava, you will continue on to a series ofunforgettable sights such <strong>as</strong> the spa town ofPiestan, villages perched high up in the alpineHigh Tatr<strong>as</strong> mountains, the picturesque Spisregion – home to the largest medieval ruin inCentral Europe – and the UNESCO-listedancient mining town of Banska Stiavnica.Day 1 Fly to ViennaFly to Vienna, pick up car and drive toBratislava (63 kilometres). Check in to hotelfor 1 night. Half day city tour of Bratislavaincluding the main highlights such <strong>as</strong> BratislavaC<strong>as</strong>tle, St. Martin Cathedral, Primate Palaceand Clarisse Church.Day 3 Zilina to J<strong>as</strong>naDrive to Terchova - birthplace of the SlovakRobin Hood, Juraj Janosik. Take a cable carto Chleb Mountain. Visit the marvellouslypreserved rustic village of Vlkolínec beforecontinuing to the Low Tatr<strong>as</strong> National Park,where you can visit the Demanovska Cave ofLiberty – the longest cave system in Slovakia.Overnight in J<strong>as</strong>na (100 kilometres). (B)Day 4 J<strong>as</strong>na to High Tatr<strong>as</strong>Spend today exploring the High Tatr<strong>as</strong> -Slovakia’s highest alpine mountains (72kilometres). Visit Strbske Pleso, the highestvillage in Slovakia, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> other traditionalvillages such <strong>as</strong> Stary Smokovec, TatranskaLomnica and Spisska Sobota. It is also possibleto visit Aquacity and spend the day relaxingand using their thermal pools. Overnight inthe High Tatr<strong>as</strong> region. (B)religious buildings and monuments. Here, visitthe Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a stunningexample of Slovakian Baroque. Continue toRed Stone C<strong>as</strong>tle before stopping off in thepretty town of Modra, renowned for majolicapottery. In Pezinok, you can visit the Museumof Viticulture and t<strong>as</strong>te typical Slovak wines.Drive to Bratislava (173 Kilometres) forovernight stay. (B)Day 8 Bratislava to UKFree morning depending on time of flightback to the UK. Drive to Vienna Airport (63kilometres) and drop off car. Fly to the UK. (B)Ask <strong>Regent</strong>Call a <strong>Regent</strong> Slovakia Specialist to tailor-makethe perfect Fly-Drive for you; choose yourduration, level of hotel and car type.Day 2 Bratislava to ZilinaDay 5 High Tatr<strong>as</strong> to Bansko Bystria56Drive to Piestany, one of Slovakia’s mostpopular spa towns. Continue to Trencin andvisit the ruins of Beckov C<strong>as</strong>tle located on VahRiver. Visit the folk village of Cicmany, wherethe exteriors of the houses are decorated withgeometrical patterns. Continue to Zilina forovernight stay (201 kilometres). (B)Today explore the picturesque Spis region.Visit Spiss C<strong>as</strong>tle and Spisska Kapitula - thelargest medieval ruin in central Europe. In theafternoon drive to the Bansko Bystria (139kilometres) for an overnight stay. (B)Day 6 Bansko Bystria toBanska StiavnicaIn the morning drive to Hronsek and visit arare articular wooden Church dating from1726. Continue to Banska Stiavnica (48kilometres), a UNESCO World Heritage Sitethat lies in an immense wooded b<strong>as</strong>in causedby a collapsing volcano. Spend time visitingthe open-air mining museum and explore a17th-century silver mine. Overnight in BanskaStiavnica. (B)Day 7 Banska Stiavnica to BratislavaDrive west to Nitra, the oldest town inSlovakia. Continue to Trnava, known <strong>as</strong> the“Slovakian Rome” due to the large number ofPrices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £630Single room supplement £904-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £690Single room supplement £160Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3 or 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Car hire Group B (Fiat Punto or similar)including CDW, theft protection, thirdparty liability, unlimited mileage and alltaxesPrices exclude• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
BratislavaCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsFor stunning 360-degree views ofBratislava, the UFO restaurant cannotbe beaten. Perched high upon a bridgetower on the mighty Danube, thisstrange, 1960s futurist constructionevokes space race nostalgia, and you’llcertainly feel like a starship captain <strong>as</strong>you peer down on the sprawling citylights and traffic below.Getting thereFlights: British Airways direct fromLondon Heathrow to ViennaDepartures: DailyFlight duration: 2 hours 15 minutesRegional departures: Add-ons fromAberdeen, Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow,Manchester and Newc<strong>as</strong>tle – ple<strong>as</strong>econtact us for detailsE<strong>as</strong>yjet fly from Luton and LondonGatwick. We can book E<strong>as</strong>yjet <strong>as</strong> partof your packageBusiness Cl<strong>as</strong>s Supplement:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Transfer: Vienna International Airportto Bratislava city centre – 64 kilometres.Journey time is around 45 minutesPrivate transfer price:£65 per car one-way (1-3 persons)£103 per mini-bus one-way (4-8 persons)VISA: Not required for EU p<strong>as</strong>sportholdersPricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with BritishAirways and all airport taxes.When to goBratislava is a great year-rounddestination. If you want to get your handson some quality Slovak souvenirs then werecommend visiting for the E<strong>as</strong>ter Marketwhich h<strong>as</strong> hundreds of stalls selling myriadhandicrafts, potteries, ceramics, sweetsand other local products. For those wholike a drink, the month of June plays hostto Junifest – Bratislava’s equivalent ofOktoberfest. As well <strong>as</strong> a plethora ofdelicious local draught beers to sample,expect concerts, arts and crafts, singingcontests and maybe even some goul<strong>as</strong>hparties.Park Inn DanubePrices from £320pp twin-shareFor a good-value break in this delightful city,the Park Inn Danube is a perfect choice <strong>as</strong> itis close to the Old Town and Bratislava C<strong>as</strong>tle.This modern hotel h<strong>as</strong> light and spacious roomsand two restaurant/bars. If you have any energyleft after exploring the city you can use theswimming pool, sauna and fitness centre.Radisson Blu CarltonPrices from £365pp twin-shareThis elegant 19th-century building, overlookinga pretty square, is very cl<strong>as</strong>sic inside but therooms are decorated in contemporary style.There are plenty of restaurants and barsnearby but make sure you try out the gourmetrestaurant with its outdoor terrace for summerdining.Kempinski River ParkPrices from £460pp twin-shareTreat yourself to a stay in this sumptuoushotel located on the banks of the Danube withdelightful views across to Bratislava C<strong>as</strong>tle. Thehotel oozes elegance and style and the roomscombine contemporary facilities with cl<strong>as</strong>sicdesign. Try out the restaurant which servesse<strong>as</strong>onal and organic produce.57Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
PolandThe Inside StoryVisit Poland and discover breathtaking landscapes pepperedwith lakes and windswept sand dunes on the Baltic co<strong>as</strong>t.Across this huge expanse you will encounter towns andcities rich in history both glorious and tragic.Admire the painstaking reconstruction of Warsaw’sOld Town which contr<strong>as</strong>ts so vividly with the Stalinistarchitecture. Take in the tre<strong>as</strong>ures of Krakow, whoseimposing c<strong>as</strong>tle peers down on a maze of medieval streetsand admire the rebuilt Renaissance delights of Gdansk orWroclaw’s dramatic Gothic architecture.Head into the mountains where you can follow the walkingtrails through the Tatr<strong>as</strong> or delve underground into thecavernous chambers of a salt mine, stop at J<strong>as</strong>na GoraMon<strong>as</strong>tery, home to the miraculous icon of the BlackMadonna, and contemplate the suffering of those whosetragic stories ended at Auschwitz.Storyto tell -JoanneWheelerWhy I lovePolandPoland is an extremelyspirited country andthere is a real sense ofcommunity and prideamongst its people,perhaps best exemplifiedby the meticulouslyrebuilt Old Town inWarsaw which w<strong>as</strong>dev<strong>as</strong>tated in WorldWar II. This positive,forward-lookingattitude translatesinto the warmwelcome that I find onevery visit.966Duke Mieszko I, founderof the Polish state, adoptsCatholic Christianity1569Signs Union of Lublin,establishing the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth1918Independent Polishstate restored afterend of WWI1940Soviet troops m<strong>as</strong>sacreover 22,000 Poles atKatyn1945Soviet forcescapture Warsaw1025Boleslaw I proclaims theKingdom of Poland1794Disappears from the map afterCommonwealth is partitionedamong Prussia, Russia & Austria1939Nazi Germanyinvades Poland1941Nazi concentration campsbuilt around Poland
WistaDays like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in PolandKrakow & the TatraMountains7 days from £520 pp twin-shareThis individual itinerary offers thegreat combination of a city stay inhistoric Krakow with the relaxingmountain scenery of Zakopane.As the cultural capital of Poland,Krakow never suffers a shortageof exhibitions, arts, concerts andtheatrical performances. TheMarket Square is the largestmedieval Square in Europe and theCloth Hall is an excellent startingpoint for souvenir shopping.In contr<strong>as</strong>t, nestled at the foot ofthe spectacular Tatra Mountains,Zakopane is the winter sportscapital of Poland. During the winter,plentiful snow and challenging runsmake for excellent skiing, whilethe summer months offer walkersmountain lakes, glacial valleys andwaterfalls.A town full of folklore and mythsand bearing the legacy of Poland’sartistic set from the 1930’s,Zakopane attracts 3 millionvisitors a year. With its distinctivewooden architecture and colourfulmountain traditions, the townitself is a worthy stopping point,but it is the splendid Tatra peaks,the mountain range on the borderbetween Poland and Slovakia, thatis the main highlight. Visitors comeyear-round to admire the dazzlingnatural beauty of the region’s alpinelakes, flora and fauna.Hotel Litwor HHHHConsider staying at the superb4-star Hotel Litwor, which is ideallysituated on the main pedestrianstreet of Zakopane. Retaining therustic charms of traditional Polisharchitecture and decoration, thishotel h<strong>as</strong> 56 contemporary roomsand 6 suites. Facilities include anindoor pool, restaurant, sun terraceand fitness centre. The buffetbreakf<strong>as</strong>t is very impressive and staffare extremely friendly and helpful.LebskoRUSSIALITHUANIALakeGulf ofUstkaWejherovoSeaDanzigLeborkGdyniaPomeramianSlupskBraniewoGotdapSopotGdanskBaySlawnoBartoszyce Wegorzewo SuwalkiBytówElblagKolobrzegKoszalinTczewFezioroMalborkMamryElkBialogardGryficeStarogardOstróda Olsztyn FezioroSwinoujscie SwidwinGdanskiSniardwyItawaSzczytnoSzczecinek ChojniceBELARUSNowogardSzczecinGrudziadzSwiecieNidzicaBialystockStargardLomzaWalczBrodnicaSzczecinskiMlawaPyrzyce Choszezno Pila BydgoszczTorunCiechanówBugGERMANYOderBalticOderNotecGorzówInowroclawWartaWyszkówWielkopolskiWloclawekPlockKostrzynGnieznoBialaPoznan WrzésniaKutno WARSZAWASiedlce Podl<strong>as</strong>kaKoninPruszkówSwiebodzinLowiczLukówKoscianP O L A N DJarocinZielonaLódzGóraLeszno KaliszTom<strong>as</strong>zówPabianiceMazowieckiLubartówGlogówRawicz Ostrów SieradzPiotrkówRadomPolkowiceWielkoposkiLublinLubinBetchatów TrybunalskiChelmLegnicaWielunOstrowiecWroclawRadomskoSwietokrzyskiOtawaKluczborkZamoscJelenia GóraKielceBrzegCzestochowaStalowaTarnobrzegTom<strong>as</strong>zówWalbrzychOpoleWolaLubelskiPinczówBytomDabrowaMielecKlodzko GliwiceGórniczaLubaczówSosnowiecKatowiceRybnikKraków Tarnów RzeszówZoryUKRAINESkawinaPrzemyslBochnia J<strong>as</strong>loNowyKrosnoSaczSanokOdraCZECH REPUBLICNotecWartaBielsko-BialaGorliceCarpathian MountainsTatra MountainsSLOVAKIAWistaSanBugWARSAWPoland - Perfect ForLovers of old architecture will be charmed by the well-preserved gemsof Krakow, Wroclaw and Gdansk, with enough cobbled streets, medievalchurches, c<strong>as</strong>tles, cafes and museums to lose yourself in for days. Poland isalso a proud brewing nation with many establishments housing their ownmicrobreweries, so beer enthusi<strong>as</strong>ts are extremely well-catered for.1947Becomes CommunistPeople’s Republic1989Roundtable talks betweenSolidarity, the Communistsand the Catholic Church1992Soviet troopsbegin to withdrawfrom Poland2010President LechKaczynski and manyother senior officialskilled in a plane cr<strong>as</strong>h1945-1961Warsaw’s Old Townmeticulously rebuiltafter war dev<strong>as</strong>tation1978Karol Wojtyla, Cardinalof Krakow, elected Pope<strong>as</strong> John Paul II1990Soviet Russia finallyadmits to the Katynm<strong>as</strong>sacre2004One of 10 newstates to join the EU2012Co-hosts 2012European FootballChampionships withUkraine59Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicPolandGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedJune-Sept60This group tour visits all the major highlights ofPoland and is an ideal introduction to Poland,including the historic port of Gdansk, universitytown of Wroclaw and Auschwitz. Also includedis the Mon<strong>as</strong>tery of J<strong>as</strong>na Góra in Czestochowa.This is the third-largest Catholic pilgrimage sitein the world and home to the beloved miraculousicon of Our Lady of Czestochowa. This icon,sometimes referred to <strong>as</strong> “Black Madonna”,shows a serious-looking Mary holding the infantJesus on her left arm and gesturing towardshim with her right hand. The Virgin’s gaze is sointense that pilgrims are moved by the way sheseems to look right at them.These are guaranteed multi-lingual departuretours operated in conjunction with our Polishpartners and are not exclusive to <strong>Regent</strong><strong>Holidays</strong>’ clients. They operate with a minimumof 2 persons.Day 1 Fly to WarsawFly to Warsaw and transfer to hotel to checkin for overnight stay. (D)Day 2 Warsaw to GdanskMorning tour of Warsaw including the RoyalRoute, Royal C<strong>as</strong>tle Square and the Old TownMarket Square before an afternoon drive tothe Tricity (Gdansk, Gdynia, Sopot). Check into Gdansk hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 3 Gdansk and SopotMorning sightseeing tour of Gdansk includingDluga Street, Neptune Fountain and OlivaCathedral, where there will be a specialconcert played on the magnificent Rococoorgan. In the afternoon, enjoy a walk along thepier at Sopot, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> a tour of Gdynia. (B)Day 4 TorunDepart for Torun, with a visit en route tothe Teutonic Knights’ C<strong>as</strong>tle in Malbork andthe town of Torun, birthplace of the famous<strong>as</strong>tronomer Nicol<strong>as</strong> Copernicus. Check in tohotel for overnight stay. (B)Day 5 Torun to WroclawContinue to Wroclaw and enjoy a sightseeingtour of Wroclaw Old Town including OstrowTumski and Wroclaw Old University. Check into hotel for an overnight stay. (B)Day 6 Wroclaw to KrakowDrive to Czestochowa, the spiritual heart ofPoland. Here, visit J<strong>as</strong>na Gora Mon<strong>as</strong>tery,home to the miraculous ‘Black Madonna’.In the afternoon prepare for a moving visitto Auschwitz, before continuing to Krakow.Check in to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 7 KrakowEmbark on a morning sightseeing tour ofKrakow including Royal Wawel Hill, the RoyalCathedral and the Old Town. In the afternoonvisit the word-famous Wieliczka Salt Mines. (B)Day 8 Krakow to UKTransfer to the airport for flight back to UK. (B)Prices fromDeparturePer person Single roomdatestwin-share supplement5 & 29 Jun £1015 £35013 & 27 Jul £960 £3253, 10, 17 & 24 Aug £960 £3257 Sep £1015 £350Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withLOT Polish Airlines direct from LondonHeathrow (via Warsaw on the returnflight)• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 4 and 5-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Welcome dinner• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursOptional extr<strong>as</strong>• Half board supplement £125 perperson (6 x three-course dinnerswith mineral water)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Warsaw& KrakowTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality7 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundOne of our most popular individual itinerariescombining dynamic Warsaw with the charmof Krakow, this tour offers different hotelcategories to suit every budget including <strong>as</strong>election of hand-picked boutique hotels.Travel between the cities is by express trainsand we also include transfers on arrival. Tomake the most of your stay, we recommendbooking our popular seat-in-coach toursof Warsaw and Krakow, which representexcellent value for money.Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that these prices are b<strong>as</strong>ed onFriday departures throughout the year.However we can tailor-make these tours todepart on any day you wish.Day 1 Fly to WarsawFly to Warsaw, transfer to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2-3 WarsawFree days in Warsaw to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions.Today, the overriding impression of Warsawis of a thriving capital surrounding a revivedOld Town. Like other old European capitals,Warsaw is a city of elegant boutiques,excellent cafés and world-cl<strong>as</strong>s museums.Poles and foreign visitors alike find plenty tokeep themselves occupied. Any visit shouldinclude the Royal C<strong>as</strong>tle, (housing some ofE<strong>as</strong>tern Europe’s finest art), the magnificentCathedral of St John and Wilanów Palace. (B)Day 4 Warsaw to KrakowTake the train to Krakow (journey takesaround 2½ hours and there are severaldepartures daily). Arrive Krakow and transferto hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 5-6 KrakowFree days in Krakow to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions.Krakow is certainly one of Europe’s hotdestinations. As the cultural capital of Poland,the city never suffers a shortage of exhibitions,art, concerts and theatrical performances.From buskers and street artists in the mainsquare to opera in the concert halls, it isimpossible to avoid immersing yourself in ahost of musical and theatrical delights. Sparesome time for exploring the lively Bohemiandistrict of Kazimierz. (B)Day 7 Krakow to UKFree morning depending on time of flight backto the UK. (B)Hotel OptionsAs the majority of our Poland itineraries aretailor-made, we can book a wide range ofaccommodation subject to availability. Thefollowing hotels are included in the aboveitinerary but if these hotels are not availablethen we will offer suitable alternatives.3-star hotelsWarsaw - Hotel MDMKrakow - Hotel Alexander4-star hotelsWarsaw - Hotel Polonia PalaceKrakow - Radisson BluBoutique hotelsWarsaw - Hotel RialtoKrakow - Amadeus HotelSightseeing in Warsaw and KrakowWe can book individual sightseeing tours inPoland <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the following guaranteedcoach tours which represent great value formoney. At time of print, the following toursdepart daily and there are various hotel pickups.We will advise time of pick-up on booking.Warsaw City Tour(4.5 hours) £35 per personKrakow City Tour(4 hours) £33 per personAuschwitz-Birkenau Tour(6 hours) £33 per personWieliczka Salt Mines(4 hours) £34 per personPrices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £525Single room supplement £1504-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £730Single room supplement £324Boutique hotel optionPer person twin-share £750Single room supplement £318Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withLOT Polish Airlines direct from LondonHeathrow (via Krakow on the returnflight)• All airport taxes and security charges• Hotel accommodation <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All arrival transfers• First cl<strong>as</strong>s train tickets, Warsaw toKrakowPrices exclude• Departure transfers61Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
KrakowCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsCombine the p<strong>as</strong>t with today on a visitto the Museum of Contemporary Art– a v<strong>as</strong>t exhibition space housed insidethe factory where Oskar Schindlerprotected his Jewish workers fromdeportation to the Nazi camps duringWorld War II.62Getting thereFlights: E<strong>as</strong>yjet direct fromLondon GatwickDepartures: DailyFlight duration: 2 hours 25 minutesRegional departures: E<strong>as</strong>yjet also flyfrom Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool JohnLennon Airport and LutonBusiness Cl<strong>as</strong>s Supplement:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Transfer: John Paul II BaliceInternational Airport to city centre –15 kilometres. Journey time is around20 minutesPrivate transfer price:£33 per car one-way (1-2 persons)£45 per mini-bus (3-4 persons)VISA: Not required for EU p<strong>as</strong>sportholdersPricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with E<strong>as</strong>yjet andall airport taxes.Ple<strong>as</strong>e note E<strong>as</strong>yjet is a low cost carrier.When to goKrakow is the de facto cultural capitalof Poland and hardly a month p<strong>as</strong>ses bywithout the city’s streets or arts venuesmarking some kind of special occ<strong>as</strong>ionwith an exciting show, festival or parade.For something unusual but strangelyentertaining, the Festival of Sailors’ Songsin February regales thousands of peopleeach year with rousing performances ofboth modern and traditional sea shanties.In July, the International Festival of StreetPerformers sees a colourful <strong>as</strong>sortment ofjugglers, stilt walkers, tightrope walkersand comedy acts bring the streets to life.Hotel AlexanderPrices from £299pp twin-shareYou can’t get better value than by staying atthis simple 3-star hotel which is handily locatedon the edge of the Old Town and just 200metres from Market Square which you will bedrawn to, day and night, by the shops, bars andrestaurants. The friendly staff are always onhand to help you.Hotel AmadeusPrices from £410pp twin-shareThis boutique hotel is a real find in Krakow.Located in an historic 16th-century townhousein a quiet street just a few steps from bustlingMarket Square, the hotel is decorated in anelegant Baroque style. An ideal retreat after abusy day exploring the sights of Krakow.Senaki HotelPrices from £395pp twin-shareA recently-renovated and charming hotel in anexcellent central location, Hotel Senacki offersa good range of ple<strong>as</strong>antly-furnished rooms.The windows overlooking Grodzka Street offera wonderful view of the 17th century Church ofSS Peter and Paul built in Baroque style and the11th century St. Andrew’s Church.Radisson Blu KrakowPrices from £399pp twin-shareJust a short walk from both Market Squareand Wawel C<strong>as</strong>tle, this international hotel h<strong>as</strong>bright, modern rooms, many with lovely viewsacross the city. With all the facilities expected ofa Radisson SAS hotel, the standards of servicemake this an excellent choice for your time inKrakow.Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Gdanskand WarsawCity BreaksPricesCity break prices are per person and include threenights accommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s and all airport taxes.WarsawDiscover Warsaw’s painstakingly restoredOld Town with its Baroque Royal C<strong>as</strong>tleand Gothic Cathedral of St John. Enjoythe formal gardens of Wilanow Palacebefore paying a moving visit to the siteof the former ghetto. Join in the fun atWarsaw’s Bazar Na Kole market andappreciate fine dining in C<strong>as</strong>tle Square.When to goFans of cl<strong>as</strong>sical music will likely be infor a treat whatever the time of year. InApril the Ludwig van Beethoven E<strong>as</strong>terFestival celebrates the composer with <strong>as</strong>eries of concerts, while during June andJuly the Warsaw Mozart Festival bo<strong>as</strong>tsworld-cl<strong>as</strong>s productions by the WarsawChamber Opera.Hotel MDM, WarsawPrices from £310pp twin-shareAn excellent standard 3-star hotel in Warsaw’scity centre within walking distance of the OldTown. You will be ple<strong>as</strong>antly surprised by thewell furnished rooms, good facilities and thehelpfulness of the staff.Hotel Polonia Palace, WarsawPrices from £340pp twin-shareAn early-20th century grand hotel, it h<strong>as</strong>been refurbished to a very high standard. Therooms of this 4-star hotel are all finished in anunderstated but chic style. Its location in the citycentre, close to the main attractions, shops andrestaurants ensure you will not be disappointed.GdanskFollow the old Royal Road from theGolden Gate, through the painstakinglyrestored Old Town with its traditionalburgher townhouses. Admire St Mary’sChurch before climbing the tower forsensational views. Contemplate themoving Roads to Freedom exhibit andallow time to relax at one of Gdansk’smany waterfront bars and restaurants.When to goGdansk is a wonderful city breakdestination year-round. The biggest eventof the year is St Dominic’s Fair, a 3-weekextravaganza of musical concerts, theatre,food, handicrafts and parades, which h<strong>as</strong>been celebrated for over 750 years andtraditionally begins between late July andearly August.Krolewski, GdanskPrices from £340pp twin-shareConverted from a 17th-century Royal Granarythe hotel h<strong>as</strong> an enviable position on the banksof the Motlawa River close to the famous PolishBaltic Philharmonic. The rooms are t<strong>as</strong>teful anddecorated in rich colours and you will enjoy awarm welcome from the attentive staff.Radisson Blu GdanskPrices from £310pp twin-shareRight in the heart of the Old Town, the RadissonBlu combines old-world charm with beautifularchitecture and rooms that are both modernand chic, decorated in relaxing colours. Makesure you try the in-house French restaurant orexperience some Polish hospitality in the hotel’sIrish bar, both in the neighbouring Gothic house.63Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Baltic StatesThe Inside StoryWonderful medieval Old Towns, dense forests, pine-fringedsandy beaches, hotels to suit all budgets and fant<strong>as</strong>tic dining,the Baltics truly have something to offer for everyone.Estonia bo<strong>as</strong>ts wonderfully diverse architecture, fromRussian Orthodox churches to lonely wooden windmillsand Danish c<strong>as</strong>tles. The capital, Tallinn, is a true fairytalecity rivalling the likes of St Petersburg and Budapest.Continuing to Latvia, you will discover a serene land ofrolling plains, quiet dairy farmlands, dense forests, oldfortresses and ornate palaces such <strong>as</strong> the Baroque Rundale.While Riga is another enchanting Baltic capital sure tocharm you.Visitors to Lithuania will enjoy highlights such <strong>as</strong> theatmospheric Hill of Crosses at Siauliai, medieval TrakaiC<strong>as</strong>tle, the se<strong>as</strong>ide resort of Palanga, the narrow streets andmerchant houses of Klaipeda and the stunning CuronianSpit <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the picturesque city of the Iron Wolf, Vilnius.Storyto tell -JoanneWheelerWhy I lovethe BalticsTravel between eachof the Baltic Statescan be done with suche<strong>as</strong>e, so a mix of cities,national parks, c<strong>as</strong>tlesand so much more areall within e<strong>as</strong>y reach. It iswonderful to experiencethe different cultures onoffer and to soak up theindividuality that eachcountry strives for.1179Earliest mention ofEstonian folk singing18th CRussian Empire gainscontrol of most of presentdayBaltic states1869First Estonian SongFestival, one of thelargest amateur choralevents in the world1940Baltic partisans known<strong>as</strong> “the Forest Brothers”begin guerrilla waragainst Soviet rule13th CChristianity and feudalismintroduced following theinv<strong>as</strong>ion of the Crusaders1831First crosses appear onwhat becomes Lithuania’sfamous Hill of Crosses1918-20Estonia, Latvia andLithuania becomesovereign nations1941Nazi Germanyinvades Baltic region
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in the BalticsEstonia By Bus8 days from £595pp twin-shareThis individual itinerary begins inTallinn and uses the excellent localbus connections to explore thisdiverse country. The border townof Narva, neglected from mosttravel itineraries, is a worthwhilestop to view the two ancientfrontier fortresses facing eachother across the river; HermannC<strong>as</strong>tle on the Estonian side andthe Ivangorod C<strong>as</strong>tle on theRussian side. Finally head to Pärnuwith its wide stretch of white sandbeach, a magnificent, historic towncentre, leafy park are<strong>as</strong> and quietstreets lined with early 20thcenturyvill<strong>as</strong>.Lithuania Fly-Drive10 days from £790pp twin-shareDrive along one of the most scenicBaltic roads - the Panemune Road,which follows the meanderingRiver Nemun<strong>as</strong>. Stay in Nida, anattractive fishing village locatedon the Curonian Spit, which istruly a highlight of any visit toLithuania. Sculpted by the windand the sea, this long, thin fingerof sand stretches 98km and isbordered on one side by the BalticSea and the other by the CuronianLagoon. Its fragile landscape ofshifting sand dunes and pineforest, where elk and wild boarroam free is protected by nationalpark status.Latvia Beach Breaks8 days from £695pp twin shareFor a truly unique summer breaktake a beach holiday in Latvia,where you will find ple<strong>as</strong>ant, warmwaters and miles of sparkling sandybeaches backed by scented pineforests. Our Latvia beach holidaystake you to the stunning resortof Jurmala, also known <strong>as</strong> the‘Riviera of the Baltics’. With plentyof fabulous shops, bustling cafésand excellent restaurants servingdelicious, freshly caught seafood,you won’t struggle for things to seeand do after a day in the sun. Theenchanting city of Riga is also withine<strong>as</strong>y distance for a culturally-richday trip.Gulf of FinlandTALLINNLoksaRakvereNarva BaySillamäeKiviolVormsiKärdlaHiiumaaPOLANDESTONIARUSSIAKuresaareTorvaKihnuSaaremaa AbrukaVõruBurtnieku ValkaRuhniEzersGulfAluksneof Limbazi ValmieraRiga Cesis Gulbene BalviVentspilsEnguresSaulkr<strong>as</strong>tTalsi EzersSiguldaUsm<strong>as</strong>Lubãn<strong>as</strong>TukumsMadonaEzersRIGAUzersOgreLudzaKuldiga JurmalaDaugava RzeknePavilostaJelgavaZilupeSaldusJekabpilsLATVIARaznaDobeleUzersEleja BauskaLiepajaLivãniBirzaiKr<strong>as</strong>lavaSkuod<strong>as</strong> MazeikiaiPandélysDaugavpilsSiauliauKretinga Plunge TelsiaiRadviliskis KupiskisPanevezysVisagin<strong>as</strong>UtenaKlaipedaKelmeGargzdai LITHUANIAIgnalinaKedainialUkmergéNida SilutèTaurageBELARUSJonavaJubark<strong>as</strong>Kaun<strong>as</strong>VILNIUSVikaviskisRUSSIAPrienaiSalcininkaiMarijampole AlytusVarenaDruskininkaiBalticSeaRaplaHaapsaluPärnuDubysaMusiaTüriPaideViljandiVõrtsjärvNerisLakePeipusJõgevaTartuPõlvaThe Baltics - Perfect ForThose who have already perused Prague, browsed Budapest and seen StPetersburg and are wondering where to set their sights on next, should lookno further than the Baltics. The cities of Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius are historicalmarvels with all the medieval charm and cultural highlights of more well-knowndestinations but without the crowds. In the Baltic countryside, history buffswill be enamoured by palaces, c<strong>as</strong>tles and abandoned Soviet missile b<strong>as</strong>es.1945Baltic countries brutallysubjugated by SovietUnion after WWII1989The Baltic Way – huge protestagainst the Soviet regime where2 million form human chain1994L<strong>as</strong>t Russian troops withdrawfrom territory of Baltic states2004Baltic countriesjoin EuropeanUnion and NATO1988‘Singing revolution’brings Estonian peopletogether in bid fornational unity1991Soviet governmentrecognises independenceof Baltic republics2001Riga celebrates800th anniversary2011Estonia adopts Euro<strong>as</strong> currency65Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sic BalticGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedMay-OctThis essential introduction to the threeBaltic capitals is an excellent tour for a firsttime visitor or for those who enjoy a morerelaxed pace on group tours. Staying in4 and 5-star hotels, this itinerary not onlyincludes sightseeing tours of each city butalso visits highlights such <strong>as</strong> the unforgettableHill of Crosses, the stately Rundale Palacein Latvia and the Estonian se<strong>as</strong>ide resortof Pärnu.Day 3 Vilnius to RigaDepart by coach to Riga with visit en routeto the Hill of Crosses, (an atmospheric placeof pilgrimage) and Rundale Palace, formerresidence of the Duke of Courland. ArriveRiga, and check in to Europa Royal Hotel for3 nights. (B,L)Day 4 RigaOPTIONAL: Afternoon excursion to KadriorgPark and Palace, built in 1721 by Peter theGreat <strong>as</strong> a gift to his wife Catherine II to use<strong>as</strong> their summer residence.Day 8 Tallinn to UKFree morning depending on time of flight backto the UK. (B)66These are guaranteed multi-lingual departuretours operated in conjunction with our Balticpartners and are not exclusive to <strong>Regent</strong><strong>Holidays</strong>’ clients. They operate with a minimumof 2 persons.Day 1 Fly to VilniusFly to Vilnius and check in to Hotel RadissonBlu Astorija Hotel for 2 nights. Welcomemeeting in hotel lobby.Day 2 VilniusMorning sightseeing tour of Vilnius includingthe Cathedral of Peter and Paul, the GothicChurch of St. Anne’s and the Baroque buildingsof Vilnius University. Vilnius, with its exquisiteBaroque Old Town, reflects a diversity ofinfluences from Germany, Poland, Russia andScandinavia. The influence of legendary USrock musician, Frank Zappa, is not so clear buthis statue on Kalinausko defines the quirkynature of Lithuania. Afternoon at leisure. (B)OPTIONAL: Afternoon tour to the medievalcapital of Trakai. This 14th-century redbrickedc<strong>as</strong>tle, tranquilly located on an islandon Lake Galve, houses a small history museum.Morning sightseeing tour of Riga with itsnarrow cobbled streets, 3rd-century DomeCathedral and colourfully restored merchants’houses. We also include a visit to Riga’s famousArt Nouveau district. Afternoon at leisure. (B)Day 5 RigaFree day to explore Riga. (B)OPTIONAL: Morning sightseeing excursionto Sigulda, Latvia’s ‘Switzerland’. Here, visitthe Turaida Museum Reserve including the13th-century German Knights’ C<strong>as</strong>tle andGutmana Cave.Day 6 Riga to Tallinn via PärnuDepart by coach to Tallinn with visit en routeto the Ethnographical Open Air Museum,situated on the outskirts of Riga, to seetraditional Latvian rural buildings. A stop isalso made in Pärnu, a se<strong>as</strong>ide resort on theBaltic Sea. Continue to Tallinn and check in toNordic Hotel Forum for 2 nights. (B,L)Day 7 TallinnMorning sightseeing tour of Tallinn includingthe medieval Upper and Lower Towns. Oneof Europe’s smallest cities, Tallin’s milieu ofred roofs and labyrinthine streets in the oldtown merge seamlessly with designer mallsand gleaming skyscrapers, all observedimperiously by the hilltop Alexander NevskyCathedral. Afternoon at leisure. (B)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement25 May £935 £2608 Jun £935 £2606, 21 Jul £935 £2603, 10, 17 Aug £935 £2607, 21, 22 £935 £2605 Oct £935 £260Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withFinnair via Helsinki from LondonHeathrow or Manchester• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 4 & 5-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Lunch on day 3 and 6• All transportation between the citiesand on sightseeing tours• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours• Individual information package (cityguides, maps, restaurant suggestionsin each city)Optional Extr<strong>as</strong>• Private airport transfers £34 per person• 4-hour tour to Trakai C<strong>as</strong>tle £40per person• 5-hour tour to Sigulda £52 per person• 3-hour tour to Kadriorg Park andPalace £40 per person• Half board supplement £160per personCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
BalticCapitalsTourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality10 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundVisiting their capitals makes the perfectintroduction to each Baltic country. Althoughlocated no more than six hours away from eachother, each city is a wholly unique prospectwith its own inimitable set of charms andsampling the different atmospheres, flavoursand cultures will give you an invaluable insightinto this captivating corner of Europe.This is our most popular and longest runningindividual tour in the Baltics, now celebratingits 15th year. The tour offers three differenthotel categories to suit every budget and itis also possible to vary the types of hotelson your trip.Travel between each city is on local coachesbut we can also quote for private transfersby car. Longer stays can be arranged and it ispossible to add on extensions in Helsinki and/or St Petersburg. Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for details.Day 1 Fly to VilniusFly to Vilnius, check in to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2-3 VilniusFree days to explore Vilnius, a city of churcheswith a steeple view on every corner. Vilniush<strong>as</strong> the largest Old Town in Europe, whereyou can discover a tre<strong>as</strong>ure trove of pristinewinding streets and colourful Baroquebuildings. Take the funicular from the Lowerto the Higher C<strong>as</strong>tle for views across therooftops and learn about the country’s recenthistory at the Museum of Genocide Victims inthe former KGB headquarters. (B)Day 4 Vilnius To RigaMorning at leisure depending on time of busto Riga. Arrive Riga and check in to hotel for3 nights. (B)Day 5-6 RigaFree days to explore Riga, the largest andpossibly the most energetic city of the Baltics.From the medieval Old Town to the largeArt Nouveau district and from the movingOccupation Museum of Latvia to the hugecentral market in old Zeppelin Hangars, thereis always something to do in Riga. (B)Day 7 Riga to TallinnMorning at leisure until midday bus to Tallinn.Arrive Tallinn and check in to hotel for 3nights. (B)Day 8-9 TallinnFree days to explore Tallinn’s medieval OldTown with its enchanting <strong>as</strong>sortment of 13thcenturychurch spires, maze of cobbled streetsand impressive Town Hall Square. Spend timerelaxing in chic cafés and trendy bars, enjoymeals in gourmet restaurants and exerciseyour credit cards in the gleaming new designermalls. (B)Day 10 Tallinn to UKFree morning before flight back to the UK. (B)Hotel OptionsAs the majority of our Baltic itineraries aretailor-made, we can book a wide range ofaccommodation subject to availability. Thefollowing hotels are included in the aboveitinerary but if these hotels are not availablethen we will offer suitable alternatives.3-star hotelsVilnius - Hotel City GateRiga - Hotel HanzaTallinn - L’Ermitage Hotel4-star hotelsVilnius - Mabre Residence HotelRiga - Hotel JustusTallinn - Baltic Hotel Imperial5-star hotelsVilnius - Narutis HotelRiga - Hotel Grand PalaceTallinn - Hotel TelegraafPrices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £699Single room supplement £2154-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £765Single room supplement £2855-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1145Single room supplement £660Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withFinnair via Helsinki from LondonHeathrow or Manchester• All airport taxes and security charges• Hotel accommodation <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Coach tickets, Vilnius to Rigaand Riga to TallinnPrices exclude• All transfers67Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Tallinn &the IslandsTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureMar-OctThis Baltic tour is a wonderfully luxuriousway to combine Tallinn with the delights ofthe Päd<strong>as</strong>te Manor on Muhu Island. MuhuIsland is an unspoilt tre<strong>as</strong>ure, characterisedby its rolling meadows, juniper forests, andisolated farms. The dolomite cliff and caveson the northern shore, the 13th-century StCatharine’s Church, an abandoned Sovietmissile b<strong>as</strong>e and the old Koguva fishing villageare all worth a visit during your stay.The itinerary includes stays in two of the besthotels in Estonia and extensions can be addedto include stays on Saaremaa Island, whereyou can hire a car and be free to explore suchsights <strong>as</strong> the Angla windmills, Kaali meteoritecrater, Mihkli Farm Museum, medievalchurches and nature reserves.Day 8 Muhu Island to UKTransfer by private car to Tallinn airport forflight back to the UK. (B)restaurant provides wonderful dishes ofcontemporary Estonian cuisine which areserved either on the sea view terrace or insideby the fireplace.During the summer, the Seahouse Restaurant& Terrace offers a wide selection of drinks anda splendid à la carte menu. You can relax intheir spa centre with a full-body aromatherapym<strong>as</strong>sage, volcanic clay m<strong>as</strong>k or mud treatment.Also on offer is their Roman steam bath withnatural herbal extracts and a Muhu woodburningsauna with fresh birch and juniper keg.There is also a spa-terrace which is an idealplace to while away endless hours overlookingthe bay.68Day 1 Fly to TallinnFly to Tallinn, transfer to Telegraaf Hotel andcheck in for 4 nights.Day 2-4 TallinnFree days in Tallinn to explore at leisure. Seethe old medieval city walls and head into theOld Town where sights include ToompeaC<strong>as</strong>tle, the Dome Church, Alexander NevskyCathedral and the medieval Old Town Hall.You can also take an excursion to KadriorgPalace, a Baroque m<strong>as</strong>terpiece that w<strong>as</strong> oncePeter the Great’s summer palace. (B)Day 5 Tallinn to Muhu IslandTransfer by private car to Päd<strong>as</strong>te Manor andcheck in for 3 nights. (B)Day 6-7 Muhu IslandFree days to explore Muhu Island or relax withthe various spa treatments on offer in Päd<strong>as</strong>teManor (payable locally). (B)Päd<strong>as</strong>te Manor / Muhu IslandLocated on the southern tip of Muhu Islandby the sea, this opulent resort is a member ofthe Small Luxury Hotels of the World chain.The Päd<strong>as</strong>te Manor dates back to the 16thcentury and offers superb accommodationwith a small spa centre and a restaurant.There are 11 double rooms (1 double in theCarriage House, 3 deluxe and 7 superiordoubles in the Manor House) and 12 suitesfully renovated and adorned with antiquefurniture. Suites have private balconies witha picturesque view of the bay.There is also a newly-opened privatefarmhouse that offers luxury accommodationfor guests who prefer more privacy. ThePrices fromLow Se<strong>as</strong>on1 Mar-30 Apr, 1-31 OctPer person twin-share £1095Single room supplement £565High Se<strong>as</strong>on1 May -30 SepPer person twin-share £1160Single room supplement £650Prices include• Return flights with E<strong>as</strong>yJet direct fromLondon Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• All transfers• Accommodation in 5-star hotel inTallinn with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Accommodation in double room inCarriage House or in Manor House atthe Päd<strong>as</strong>te Manor with breakf<strong>as</strong>tPrices exclude• Spa treatments at Päd<strong>as</strong>te Manor• Full Board available (three-courselunch and five-course dinner £90 perperson per day)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Tallinn &St PetersburgTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundCombine Tallinn’s medieval Old Town andits maze of cobbled streets, aw<strong>as</strong>h with chiccafés and gourmet restaurants with theopulent palaces, Venetian-like bridgesand soothing p<strong>as</strong>tel shades of Tallinn’sneighbour – St Petersburg.This itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>ed on the bus fromTallinn to St Petersburg, which takes around7-8 hours but it is possible to fly and we caninclude this option for you. Ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for prices.Day 1 Fly to TallinnFly to Tallinn, transfer to hotel for 4 nights.Day 2-4 TallinnFree days in Tallinn to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. The medievalcapital of Tallinn sits proudly on the Balticco<strong>as</strong>t 30 miles from Helsinki across the sea.Don’t forget to include a visit to the impressiveBaroque Kadriorg Palace, not far from thecentre of Tallinn. Built by Peter the Great forhis empress Catherine, the palace currentlyhouses the foreign art collection of theEstonian Art Museum. (B)Day 5 Tallinn to St PetersburgTransfer to bus station for day bus to StPetersburg (subject to timetable changes).Arrive St Petersburg, transfer to hotel for3 nights. (B)Day 6-7 St PetersburgFree days in St Petersburg to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. St Petersburgis a wonderful contr<strong>as</strong>t to Tallinn. Spenddays exploring this former imperial capital,designed by Peter the Great. Architecturalbo<strong>as</strong>ts include a stunning range of attractionsfrom ornate palaces to world-famous artgalleries. (B)Day 8 Riga to TallinnMorning at leisure until midday bus to Tallinn.Arrive Tallinn and check in to hotel for 2nights. (B)Day 9 TallinnFree days to explore Tallinn’s medieval OldTown with its enchanting muddle of 13thcenturychurch spires, maze of cobbled streetsand impressive Town Hall Square. Spend timerelaxing in chic cafés and trendy bars, enjoymeals in gourmet restaurants and exerciseyour credit cards in the sparkling new designermalls. (B)Day 10 Tallinn to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B)Hotel OptionsAs the majority of our Baltic and Russiaitineraries are tailor-made, we can book awide range of accommodation subject toavailability. The following hotels are includedin the above itinerary but if these hotelsare not available then we will offer suitablealternatives.3-star hotelsTallinn - St Barbara HotelSt Petersburg - Hotel Dostoevsky4-star hotelsSt Petersburg - Hotel Amb<strong>as</strong>sadorTallinn - Baltic Hotel ImperialBaltic Hotel ImperialPrices from3-star hotel optionLow Se<strong>as</strong>on1 Jan-31 Mar, 1 Oct-31 DecPer person twin-share £765Single room supplement £190High Se<strong>as</strong>on1 Apr-30 SepPer person twin-share £925Single room supplement £3504-star hotel optionLow Se<strong>as</strong>on1 Jan-31 Mar, 1 Oct-31 DecPer person twin-share £865Single room supplement £255High Se<strong>as</strong>on1 Apr-30 SepPer person twin-share £1075Single room supplement £475Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withFinnair via Helsinki from LondonHeathrow or Manchester• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3 or 4-star hotels<strong>as</strong> specified with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers• Bus tickets, Tallinn to St PetersburgPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)69Hotel DostoevskyCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
BalticFly-DriveTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality10 daysFly-DriveExplore at LeisureYear-round70This popular itinerary not only includes thethree Baltic capitals but also visits Tartu,Bauska, Hill of Crosses and Kaun<strong>as</strong>. Drivevia Lahemaa National Park to the universitytown of Tartu, before p<strong>as</strong>sing to the medievaltown of Cesis in Latvia. En route to Kaun<strong>as</strong>,you can stop off at the eerie Hill of Crosses.From Vilnius you can visit Stalin World inDruskininkai, described <strong>as</strong> a cross betweenDisneyland and a Soviet Gulag prison camp.We have b<strong>as</strong>ed this itinerary on good 3-starhotels and Group A car hire. We can alsoquote for 4 or 5-star hotels and larger carsif required.Day 1 Fly to TallinnFly to Tallinn, pick up car at airport and driveto St Barbara Hotel in Tallinn. Check in for2 nights.Day 2 TallinnFree day in Tallinn to explore at leisure. Werecommend exploring the medieval Old Townwith its enchanting muddle of 13th-centurychurch spires, maze of cobbled streets andimpressive Town Hall Square before slinkingoff to relax in one of its many chic cafés. (B)Day 3 Tallinn to TartuDepart for Tartu (185 kilometres). En routeyou can stop in Lahemaa National Park andexplore the park’s forests, lakes, fishingvillages and manor houses, including thef<strong>as</strong>cinating 18th-century Palmse Manor.Check in to Hotel Dorpat for overnight stay. (B)Day 4 Tartu to RigaDepart for Riga (250 kilometres). En route youwill p<strong>as</strong>s through Cesis and Sigulda in GaujaNational Park. Arrive Riga and drive to HotelAlberts. Check in for 2 nights. (B)Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that for fly-drives we book hotelslocated outside Riga Old Town due to the feecharged to take cars into the area. Also mosthotels in the Old Town do not have parkingfacilities.Day 5 RigaFree day in Riga to explore at leisure. From themedieval Old Town to the large Art Nouveaudistrict and from the moving OccupationMuseum of Latvia to the huge central marketin old Zeppelin Hangars, there’s plenty todiscover in this lively capital. (B)Day 6 Riga to BauskaDrive to Bauska (65 kilometres).Here, in theZemgale region of Latvia, you can visit RundalePalace <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the ruins of Bauska C<strong>as</strong>tleand a Zemgalian farm. Check into MezotnesPils Manor for overnight stay. (B)Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that Mezotnes Manor can getbooked up quickly so we may have to offeran alternative.Day 7 Bauska to Kaun<strong>as</strong>Drive to Kaun<strong>as</strong> (210 kilometres). En routeyou can stop off at the Hill Of Crosses inSiauliai. Arrive Kaun<strong>as</strong>, check in to Park InnKaun<strong>as</strong> for overnight stay. (B)Day 8 Kaun<strong>as</strong> to VilniusDrive to Vilnius (98 kilometres). En route youcan visit Trakai C<strong>as</strong>tle, a beautiful red-brickedfortress set on a tranquil lake. Arrive Vilnius,check into Hotel City Gate for 2 nights (B)Day 9 VilniusFree day in Vilnius to explore at leisure. Acity of churches with a steeple view on everycorner, Vilnius h<strong>as</strong> the largest Old Town inEurope where you can discover a tre<strong>as</strong>uretrove of pristine winding streets and colourfulBaroque buildings. (B)Day 10 Vilnius to UKFree morning before drive to airport and dropoff car. Fly to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £955Single room supplement £270Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withFinnair via Helsinki from LondonHeathrow or Manchester• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Car Hire Group A with CDW, TheftProtection (€500 excess), additionaldriver, unlimited mileage and all taxesPrices exclude• Refundable deposit of €200-€500(depending on car type) will be takenon collection of the car• Satnav £10 per day – this needs to bebooked prior to departureCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
TallinnCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsTo sample some authentic Estonianflavours, Vanaema Jurres (Grandma’sPlace) is an absolute must-visit.Located in a rustic, low-archedcellar and serving up hearty, genuinecuisine such <strong>as</strong> ro<strong>as</strong>t elk, wild boarand sauerkraut, don’t be surprised ifyou end up returning for a second orthird helping.Getting thereFlights: E<strong>as</strong>yJet direct from LondonGatwickDepartures: Mondays, Wednesdays,Fridays and SundaysFlight duration: 2 hours 55 minutesRegional departures:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for details.Transfer: Lennart Meri Tallinn Airportto city centre - 5 kilometres. Journeytime is around 10 to 15 minutes.Private transfer price:£22 per car one-way (1-4 persons)£49 per mini-bus one-way (5-8 persons)VISA: Not required for EU p<strong>as</strong>sportholdersPricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with E<strong>as</strong>yjet andall airport taxes.When to goTallinn bustles with cultural activity allyear round, from cl<strong>as</strong>sical concerts andstage shows to medieval carnivals andbeer festivals. Summer in particular is jampacked.The Old Town Days throughoutJune brings the area to life with streetperformers, markets, live music, medievalthemedevents and traditional food stalls.This is soon followed by St John’s Day,a popular event with Pagan origins,commencing with a large bonfire lit bythe president of Estonia himself. Whilethe Baltica International Folklore Festivalin mid-July showc<strong>as</strong>es authentic Estonianfolk music, dancing, costume and othertraditions.St Barbara HotelPrices from £290pp twin-shareWithin walking distance of the Old Town, thisdelightful limestone-brick building is home tobright, spacious good-value rooms. The hoteleven h<strong>as</strong> its own cellar bar/restaurant servingGerman cuisine and refreshing German beer.Baltic Hotel ImperialPrices from £325pp twin-shareThis boutique hotel h<strong>as</strong> a unique position builtinto the old city walls. The hotel h<strong>as</strong> beensympathetically renovated to reflect its 19thcenturyheritage and the medieval city wall isexposed in the interior. Each room h<strong>as</strong> beent<strong>as</strong>tefully and individually furnished and yourstay here will be very restful.Hotel TelegraafPrices from £465pp twin-shareHoused in a former exchange building for theEstonian Telegraph Company, the magnificent19th-century architecture is home to a deluxehotel where you may rub shoulders withinternational politicians or celebrities. Closeto the Old Town Square, you will thoroughlyenjoy your stay in the stylishly decorated rooms.71Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
RigaCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsEnjoy an exquisite culinary experiencecourtesy of Latvia’s most famouschef, Martins Ritins, at the VanGogh-inspired Vincent’s. Offeringsuch delights <strong>as</strong> beef Carpaccio,Baltic turbot and Wagyu steakall conjured using scrupulouslyselected ingredients, this highly ratedrestaurant is a favourite of the localelite and foreign dignitaries.Getting thereFlights: Air Baltic direct fromLondon GatwickDepartures: DailyFlight duration: 2 hours 40 minutesRegional departures: Wizz Air fly fromLuton airport. We can book Wizz Air <strong>as</strong>part of your packageBusiness Cl<strong>as</strong>s Supplement:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Transfer: Riga International Airport tocity centre – 10 kilometres. Journeytime is around 20 minutesPrivate transfer price:£29 per car one-way (1-2 persons)£35 per mini-bus (3-5 persons)VISA: Not required for EU p<strong>as</strong>sportholdersPricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with Air Baltic andall airport taxes.Ple<strong>as</strong>e note our prices include 1 piece ofchecked baggage per person each wayWhen to goRiga is big on song and dance, withnumerous festivals held throughout theyear covering a whole gamut of musicalgenres. The Riga Music Festival kicksoff the New Year with a celebration oftraditional music both Latvian and foreign.In June, the Riga Opera Festival showc<strong>as</strong>esthe best of local and international operatictalent. Later in the summer, the RigaSalsa Festival sees performances andcl<strong>as</strong>ses held by some of the world’s bestsalsa dancers. Between September andOctober, some of the city’s most beautifulconcert halls open their doors for amonth of chamber music for the AutumnChamber Music Days festival.Hanza HotelPrices from £450pp twin-shareWithin e<strong>as</strong>y access of the old city, the HanzaHotel is a popular choice for those looking tocombine good value with good location. Therooms are all modern and simply furnished butto a high standard. Situated close to the mainattractions and the restaurant and bar scene,we highly recommend this hotel.Hotel JustusPrices from £465pp twin-shareThis boutique hotel, in the heart of the old city,close to the Dome Cathedral, is quite a find.Recently converted to a hotel, the interior ofthe building reflects its age in a graceful style.The personal service makes this a perfect placeto stay to enjoy your time in Riga.Grand Palace HotelPrices from £620pp twin-shareThis award-winning luxury hotel is in a primelocation at the heart of the old city, surroundedby Riga’s main attractions. The welcome is warmand the service impeccable and you won’ttake long to settle into your richly decoratedguestroom.72
VilniusCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsEnsure to make the short journey outof Vilnius to Trakai C<strong>as</strong>tle, a beautifulmedieval relic serenely perched ona picturesque lake. The exterior willinspire a thousand photos, whileinside you will find many f<strong>as</strong>cinatingarchaeological finds and other exhibitsdetailing Lithuania’s rich history.Getting thereFlights: Wizz Air direct from LutonDepartures: DailyFlight duration: 2 hours 40 minutesBusiness Cl<strong>as</strong>s Supplement:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Transfer: Vilnius International Airportto city centre – 6 kilometres. Journeytime is around 15 to 20 minutesPrivate transfer price:£22 per car one-way (1-2 persons)£33 per mini-bus one-way (3-7 persons)VISA: Not required for EU p<strong>as</strong>sportholdersPricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with Wizz Airand all air taxes.Ple<strong>as</strong>e note Wizz Air is a low cost carrier.When to goVilnius is a vibrant capital with somethinginteresting always going on. During theKaziuk<strong>as</strong> Fair in early March, the streetsare taken over by market stalls selling avariety of traditional goods and art thath<strong>as</strong> been lovingly produced over the winterby craftsmen. For something a bit quirky,head to the Old Town on April 14th forPhysics Day, where, in a bizarre tradition,a dinosaur rampages through the streetsin search of a female university student todevour. The Vilnius Festival in June is oneof the city’s biggest events, attracting thebest in cl<strong>as</strong>sical music from all over Europefor a series of performances.City Gate HotelPrices from £299pp twin-shareSituated in the Old Town, by the Gate of Dawn,this special hotel is handy for all the sights, shopsand restaurants. The 19th-century buildingh<strong>as</strong> been sympathetically renovated and its 28rooms are decorated simply and have everythingyou require to make your stay enjoyable.Mabre Residence HotelPrices from £325pp twin-shareThis outstanding boutique hotel is in an oldmon<strong>as</strong>tery, at the heart of the Old Town, andall the rooms are centred around a lovelycourtyard. There is a sense of peace and quietdespite its central location and the staff ensureyou have a very relaxing stay.Hotel NarutisPrices from £365pp twin-shareWe are delighted to introduce this hotel, datingfrom the Middle Ages and situated in the OldTown. There is a flower-filled inner courtyardat the heart of the hotel. No two rooms are thesame other than each one is chic and h<strong>as</strong> lovelyviews into the Old Town.73Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
RussiaThe Inside StoryMoscow’s Red Square with the Kremlin and psychedelicSt B<strong>as</strong>il’s Cathedral and St Petersburg’s Hermitage are theiconic images of Russia, but contr<strong>as</strong>t these with the townsof the Golden Ring, dotted with golden-domed Orthodoxchurches in rural vist<strong>as</strong>, and the historic cities that markthe Trans-Siberian route.Pause at Ekaterinburg, the burial place of the Romanovs,before heading into Siberia with its endless steppes andtaiga. Stop off at towns on the Trans-Siberian rail route orhead into the wilderness to stay in yurts and encountershamans and throat singers. Experience the dramaticbeauty of Kamchatka with its active volcanoes, raft alongrivers, spot bears and relax in hot springs.Whilst on your Russian holiday, we recommend visitingthe enclave of Kaliningrad, squeezed between Poland andLithuania, taking in the hero city of Volgograd, relaxingon the Russian Riviera at Sochi and joining the locals in <strong>as</strong>team bath.Storyto tell -ChristinaGibbonsWhy I loveRussiaNo two visits to Russia areever the same; it is alwayschanging yet remainsexciting and mysteriousat the same time. Thehistory and culture hereare simply fant<strong>as</strong>ticand the landscapes arebreathtaking.800sE<strong>as</strong>t Slavs settlein various regionsthroughout Russia988Grand Prince Vladimir marriesinto the Byzantine Empire andconverts to E<strong>as</strong>tern OrthodoxChristianity1237-40Mongols invadeand destroy most ofRussia’s cities1613Michael Romanov elected<strong>as</strong> tsar, heralding theRomanov dyn<strong>as</strong>ty1812Russia defeatsNapoleon’s invadingforces and participatesin his overthrow1897Bolsheviks andMensheviksform the SocialDemocratic Party862Varangian warrior,Rurik, leads his peopleto Novgorod1147City of Moscowfounded1552-56Ivan the Terrible defeatsthe Mongols at Astrakhan,extending Russian rule to theC<strong>as</strong>pian Sea1689-1725Peter the Greatintroduces farreachingreforms1853-57Allied force of French,British and Ottomansdefeat Russia in theCrimean War
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in RussiaRussia in LuxuryGroup Tour8 days from £2195 pp twin-shareDates: VariousExperience Russia in luxury withaccommodation in hand-picked5-star hotels and 1st cl<strong>as</strong>s traintravel in between. Travel incomfort and style <strong>as</strong> you discoverthe highlights and high life ofMoscow and St Petersburg, visitingiconic sites such <strong>as</strong> Red Squareand the Hermitage. Extr<strong>as</strong> on theitinerary such <strong>as</strong> a vodka factorytour, banya visit, Russian cookingm<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>s and food t<strong>as</strong>ting willreveal traditional Russian culture,allowing you to gain an authenticexperience of this enigmaticcountry.Highlights ofKaliningrad Group Tour4 days from £850 pp twin-shareDates: 28 Jun – 1 Jul 2013Located on the Baltic Sea betweenPoland and Lithuania, KaliningradObl<strong>as</strong>t is the northern part ofwhat w<strong>as</strong> once E<strong>as</strong>t Prussia. Theterritory is now home to mostlyRussian-speaking people, but manytraces of German culture are stillevident in the cities and ruins ofPrussian c<strong>as</strong>tles. Visit Baltiysk,home of Russia’s Baltic Fleet, theworld’s only amber mine and af<strong>as</strong>cinating bird ringing stationon the stunning Curonian Spit,escorted by our brilliant local guideOlga Danilova, who can be seen onMichael Palin’s New Europe.Sayan Ring Group Tour15 days from £3420 pp twin-shareDates: 17 – 31 Aug 2013Travel overland by train fromMoscow to Kr<strong>as</strong>noyarsk andbegin your Sayan Ring adventure.Travelling on our ethnographictour, you will discover a v<strong>as</strong>t andbeautiful land of rolling steppesand snow-capped mountainssteeped in cultural traditions fromShamanism to throat singing. Feellike a true pioneer <strong>as</strong> you stay intraditional yurt camps where youwill be received according to localcustoms and entertained withfolkloric performances beforeuncovering ancient sites and sacredmonuments strewn across thedramatic and unspoilt landscape.Severnaya ZemlyaMOSCOWBarents SeaMurmanskMonchegorskNovaya ZemlyaKara SeaArcticVorkutaNoril'skVolgaOb'YeniseyRUSSIALenaLeptev SeaLenaAldanYakutskNovosibirskiyeOstrovaSeverodvinsk Archangel KozhvaFINLANDTroitsko-PechorskNoyabr'skPetrozavodskSyktyvkar SurgutSt. PetersburgNizhnevartovskVologdaSerovBologoye Yaroslavl' Perm'Ob'AngaraTyumen'Kr<strong>as</strong>noyarskUst'-ilimskTomskMoscowTulaKazan' YekaterinburgNizhniyOufaOmsk Novosibirsk Kansk BratskKaliningrad NovgorodAbakanL. BaykalKursk Voronezh OrenburgIrkutsk ChitaNovotroitskBiyskSaratovVolgogradKAZAKHSTANMONGOLIARostovna-DonuAstrakhan’Black Sea C<strong>as</strong>pianSeaSea of Petropavlovsk-KamchatskiyOkhotskBlagoveshchenskKomsomol'sk-na-amureKhabarovskCHINAAmurVladivostokOceanMagadanOceanPacificRussia - Perfect ForOver thirty years on from our first foray into Russia it never fails to enthral.Perfect for culture vultures, with its grandiose cities of Moscow and StPetersburg, Russian aficionados will also find the soul of the countryside totheir liking. Military enthusi<strong>as</strong>ts should include visits to the 13 hero cities ofthe Soviet Union, spending some time in Volgograd (Stalingrad). Lovers ofnature appreciate a cruise on the legendary Volga River, gazing at shimmeringforests of silver birch and p<strong>as</strong>toral countryside.1917Bolsheviks, ledby Lenin, seizegovernment1942-43Soviet Union defeats theNazi advance at the Battleof Stalingrad1955Warsaw Pactestablished1988Gorbachevreplaces Gromyko<strong>as</strong> president2000Vladimir Putinsucceeds BorisYeltsin <strong>as</strong> President1914Russia fights alongsideBritain and Francein WWI1918-22Civil War between the RedRussians and the anti-Communist White Russians;Soviet Union formed1950Soviet Union andChina sign 30-yearalliance treaty1961Yuri Gagarin makesfirst manned spaceflight1991The Soviet Unioncollapses2006Rouble becomesconvertiblecurrency75Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof Moscow &St PetersburgGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedYear-roundThis essential introduction to Russia’s twogreat cities is an excellent tour for a first timevisitor or for those who enjoy more relaxedgroup tours.Day 1 Fly to MoscowFly to Moscow and transfer to Radisson BluBelorusskaya for 3 nights.Day 8 St Petersburg to UKFree morning before mid-afternoon transferto airport for flight back to the UK. (B)76These two great cities vie for supremacyin Russia but they both possess their ownunique charms; Moscow with its air of chintzyglamour and unmistakeable landmarks such<strong>as</strong> the Kremlin and Red Square, and StPetersburg with its cl<strong>as</strong>sical grandeur, canalsand Parisian sophistication.The itinerary includes all the main attractionsbut allows some free time for furtherexploration of sights such <strong>as</strong> the f<strong>as</strong>cinatingand moving Gulag Museum in Moscow,visiting the Russian Doll Museum in StPetersburg or relaxing over fresh blini andtea in an outdoor café.These are guaranteed departure tours operatedin conjunction with our Russian partners andare not exclusive to <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>’ clients.They operate with a minimum of 2 persons.Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that our local partners reserve theright to change hotels to similar hotels of thesame standard.Day 2 MoscowMeet your guide in the hotel reception for amorning sightseeing tour of Moscow. Aftera brief stop for lunch, there is an afternoontour of the f<strong>as</strong>cinating Tretyakov Gallery. (B)Day 3 MoscowMorning tour of the Kremlin including a visitto the Armoury, built in 1841 <strong>as</strong> a weaponsand arms factory, which now houses Russiantre<strong>as</strong>ures ranging from religious icons toFabergé eggs. Afternoon at leisure. (B)Day 4 Moscow to St PetersburgWalking/shopping tour of Old Arbat street andtour of Moscow’s Metro before transfer torailway station for day train to St. Petersburg(departing 16:30 arriving 20:45 but times mayvary). Arrive St Petersburg and transfer toDomina Prestige Hotel for 4 nights. (B)Day 5 St PetersburgAfter breakf<strong>as</strong>t, morning city tour of StPetersburg with a photo-stop at St Isaac’sCathedral. (B)Day 6 St PetersburgMorning tour of the world-renownedHermitage Museum and an afternoonexcursion to Peter and Paul Fortress, oneof the oldest buildings in St Petersburg andresting place of Peter the Great. (B)Day 7 St PetersburgExcursion to Pushkin, also known <strong>as</strong> TsarskoyeSelo, where you visit the lavish Catherine’sPalace, with its recently restored AmberRoom. (B)Prices fromDeparturePer person Single roomdatestwin-share supplement12, 26 Jan £1199 £3159, 23 Feb £1199 £31523, 30 Mar £1199 £3156, 13, 20, 27 Apr £1275 £3154, 11, 18, 25 May £1275 £3151, 8, 15, 22, 29 Jun £1275 £3156, 13, 20, 27 Jul £1275 £3153, 10, 17, 24, 31 Aug £1275 £3157, 14, 21, 28 Sep £1275 £31512, 26 Oct £1199 £3159, 23 Nov £1199 £3157, 21 Dec £1199 £315Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 4-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers• Train tickets in 2nd cl<strong>as</strong>scompartments• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide <strong>as</strong> specified• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours,except on Moscow metroPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person returnCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
RussianLanguageand CuisineExperienceTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality14 daysIndividual TourLanguage CourseJan-AugImmerse yourself in Russian language andculture on this 2 week programme b<strong>as</strong>ed inMoscow. Discover Russian culinary traditions atm<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>ses and learn to make borsht, blinis orvereniki. Also included is a visit to a food market,Russian vodka or chocolate factory, an excursionto the ancient Golden Ring Town of Tver and atraditional lunch with a Russian family.Staying in a real Russian home is the bestpossible way to get to know Russian culture,Russian people and, of course, Russian food!Our hosts are usually middle-aged women ora couple whose adult children have left home.They see their guests <strong>as</strong> part of their family,and will be keen to chat with you and helpyou improve your Russian. Home-stays arelocated in the city centre no further than a 30minute metro ride from the school and majorcity attractions. You have your own bedroomand access to all facilities including bathroom,kitchen and TV.The Russian language cl<strong>as</strong>ses are conducted atthe Language Link Central School in Moscowlocated near metro Mendeleevskaya andNovoslobodskaya. The cl<strong>as</strong>srooms are equippedwith the standard set of teaching aids includingaudiovisual facilities and a CD/MP3 player. Allteachers are multilingual and experiencedspecialists from top Russian universities.Day 1 Arrive MoscowFly to Moscow and transfer to your host family.Day 2 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon m<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>s in learning how tomake Borscht. (B)Day 3 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon seminar in Russian Fe<strong>as</strong>ts. (B)Day 4 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon m<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>s in making blinis. (B)Day 5 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon seminar on healthy nutrition inRussia. (B)Day 6 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon excursion to the Russian Vodkaor Chocolate Museum. (B)Day 7 Moscow to TverExcursion to the ancient Golden Ringtown of Tver p<strong>as</strong>sing through the town ofTorzhok. Here, learn about the preparation oftraditional Russian dishes, and also have thechance to try your hand at decorating them.There is also the opportunity to try traditionalMon<strong>as</strong>terial cuisines. (B)Day 8 MoscowFree day to explore Moscow. (B)Day 9 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon m<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>s in learning how tocook a traditional Russian meal. (B)Day 10 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon lecture; “The Geography of RussianFood is the Geography of Russia”. (B)Day 11 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon m<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>s in learning how tomake permyachiki and manti. (B)Day 12 MoscowRussian language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon seminar; “The Russian DinnerTable: Being a Guest in a Russian Home”. (B)Day 13 MoscowRussian Language cl<strong>as</strong>s from 10:00-12:30.Afternoon m<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>s in Sh<strong>as</strong>hlik BBQ. (B)Day 14 Moscow to UKTransfer to the airport for return flight tothe UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £19502013 Departure Dates:7 Jan, 12 May, 2, 9, 23 & 30 Jun,14 & 28 Jul, 4 & 18 AugPrices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>swith British Airways from LondonHeathrow• All airport and government taxes• Host family accommodation withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Return airport transfers• 20 hours of Russian tuition• Supervision by a teacher and Languagelink representative• M<strong>as</strong>ter cl<strong>as</strong>ses, seminars, lectures <strong>as</strong>per the programme• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides <strong>as</strong> specified• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours• Russian visa support documents (validfor 1 month)Prices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person return77Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Moscow &St PetersburgTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-round78Spend three days exploring the political heartof Russia with its enduring Kremlin, beforetaking the train journey to the second capital,St Petersburg. Here, discover opulent palaces,f<strong>as</strong>hionable boulevards and serene canals.This is one of our most popular tailor-madeindividual itineraries combining Moscowand St Petersburg. We can offer a varietyof hotel options to suit most budgets, <strong>as</strong> well<strong>as</strong> all transfers, so you never have to worryabout negotiating with those wily Russiantaxi drivers! We also include a private citytour in each place, giving you an overview ofboth cities. All you have to do is decide whenyou want to go.Day 1 Fly to MoscowFly to Moscow, transfer to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2 MoscowMorning city tour of Moscow by metro (4hours). Your guide will meet you in thereception of your hotel and take you via themetro to the city centre, where you will visitRed Square, see the Kremlin (from the outsideonly) and Alexandrovsky Garden, GUM (theformer State Department Store), <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong>the Bolshoi Theatre. (B)Day 3 MoscowFree day in Moscow to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)Day 4 Moscow to St PetersburgFree morning before transfer to railwaystation for f<strong>as</strong>t day train to St Petersburg.On arrival in St Petersburg transfer to hoteland check in for 4 nights. (B)Day 5 St PetersburgMorning city tour of St Petersburg (3 hours)including photo-stops across the water toPeter and Paul Fortress, Battleship Auroraand the Winter Palace. (B)Day 6-7 St PetersburgFree days in St Petersburg to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. (B)Day 8 St Petersburg to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B)TrainsOn this itinerary we use the express SapsanTrain, which takes around 4 hours, wegenerally use Train 158 which departs 1330and arrives 1800. We include second cl<strong>as</strong>stickets on this day train, if you would preferto book 1st cl<strong>as</strong>s tickets, which include a mealand drink, then ple<strong>as</strong>e let us know.Also if you would prefer the quintessentialRussian experience of an overnight trainjourney, then ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Hotel Options3-star hotel optionsMoscow Best Western VegaSt Petersburg Hotel DostoevskyLow Se<strong>as</strong>on 1 Jan – 14 Apr, 1 Nov – 31 DecMid Se<strong>as</strong>on 15 Apr – 19 May, 1 Jul – 31 OctHigh Se<strong>as</strong>on 20 May – 30 Jun4-star hotel optionsMoscow Marriot TverskayaSt Petersburg Amb<strong>as</strong>sador HotelLow Se<strong>as</strong>on 1 Jan – 15 Apr, 16 Oct – 31 DecMid Se<strong>as</strong>on 15 Apr – 14 May, 1 Jul – 15 OctHigh Se<strong>as</strong>on 15 May – 30 Jun5-star hotel optionsMoscow Hotel NationalSt Petersburg Astoria HotelLow se<strong>as</strong>on 1 Jan – 30 Mar, 1 – 13 May,1 – 31 Aug, 1 Oct – 31 DecMid Se<strong>as</strong>on 1 – 30 Apr, 1 – 31 Jul, 1 – 30 SepHigh Se<strong>as</strong>on 14 May – 30 JunPrices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement3-star hotel optionLow Se<strong>as</strong>on £890 £186Mid Se<strong>as</strong>on £990 £243High Se<strong>as</strong>on £1090 £3574-star hotel optionLow Se<strong>as</strong>on £1095 £333Mid Se<strong>as</strong>on £1260 £453High Se<strong>as</strong>on £1600 £5685-star hotel optionLow Se<strong>as</strong>on £1580 £568Mid Se<strong>as</strong>on £1760 £706High Se<strong>as</strong>on £2055 £969Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in standard rooms inhotels <strong>as</strong> specified with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers• 2nd cl<strong>as</strong>s train tickets• Half day city tour by metro in Moscowand by private car in St Petersburgwith English-speaking guidePrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person returnCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlights ofSt PetersburgTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality6 daysIndividual TourGuidedYear-roundDiscover the beauty of one of the world’s mostcaptivating cities. St Petersburg w<strong>as</strong> foundedby Peter the Great in 1703 to introduce Russiato the culture of Western Europe. Today thecity’s palaces, colourful churches, mon<strong>as</strong>teriesand renowned theatres and museums providea window into the artistic, cultural and politicallife of Russia.This individual tour takes in the highlightsof this wonderful city. We offer a selectionof hotels to suit all budgets and a variety ofsome of the best sightseeing tours, leavingthe afternoons free for you to spend yourtime <strong>as</strong> you wish. In the evenings we can alsobook theatre tickets, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> tickets to theRussian Folklore Spectacular to complete yourhighlights of St Petersburg.Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that the order of tours maychange due to the various closing days of themuseums included.Day 1 Fly to St PetersburgFly to St Petersburg and transfer to hotelfor 5 nights.Day 2 St Petersburg City TourBegin your holiday with a city tour which alsoincludes a visit to Peter and Paul Fortress (4hours). On this tour, you can learn about thehistory of the construction of St Petersburgby visiting Nevsky Prospekt, the Admiralty, theSummer Garden, the buildings of MariinskyTheatre and transformer bridges across theNeva River. We also include a stop at thePeter and Paul Fortress, founded in 1703 todefend St Petersburg against enemy raids.This complex includes the Peter and PaulCathedral, the original house of Peter theGreat, the Royal Mint and other buildings.Rest of day free to explore at leisure. (B)Day 3 The HermitageMorning visit to the State Hermitage Museum(3 hours), one of the world’s greatestmuseums, founded in 1764 and occupyingthe buildings of the Winter Palace and Small,Old and New Hermitages. The museum’scollection now h<strong>as</strong> more than three millionitems – paintings, graphic art and sculptures.After the tour ends, you can stay in themuseum to enjoy the exhibits at your ownpace, <strong>as</strong> they do say to see all exhibits youwould need to walk twenty four miles! Restof day free to explore at leisure. (B)Day 4 PetrodvoretsToday’s tour (5 hours) visits Petrodvorets,otherwise known <strong>as</strong> Peterhof which is perhapsSt Petersburg’s most famous and spectacularImperial Estate. The Grand Palace, filled withf<strong>as</strong>cinating and elaborate interiors, sits ontop of a high se<strong>as</strong>hore ridge overlooking thev<strong>as</strong>t Lower Park. The palace is surrounded byan enormous park, adorned with fountains,statues and pavilions. (Add £20 per personsupplement if you wish to travel one-way byhydrofoil during the summer). Rest of day freeto explore at leisure. (B)Day 5 The Palaces of Tsarskoye Selo& PavlovskThis f<strong>as</strong>cinating tour (6 hours) visits thetown of Pushkin, also known <strong>as</strong> TsarskoyeSelo and is located 30 kilometres south ofSt Petersburg. Here, you visit the impressivepalaces of Catherine and Pavlovsk. Pavlovsk,the former summer residence of the RussianTsars, w<strong>as</strong> built in cl<strong>as</strong>sic style by the architectCameron. Around the palace is a romantic parkwith mysterious rivers, pavilions, grottoes andancient statues. One of the highlights is <strong>as</strong>top at the magnificent Baroque Catherine’sPalace, where the Amber Room is consideredto be one of the Wonders of the World. (B)Day 6 St Petersburg to UKFree morning before transfer to the airportfor flight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement3-star Hotel Dostoevsky1 Jan-14 Apr, 1 Nov-31 Dec£985 £13015 Apr-19 May, 1 - 31 Oct£1010 £16520 May - 30 Jun£1205 £3651 Jul-30 Sep£1080 £2154-star Hotel Amb<strong>as</strong>sador1 Jan-15 Apr, 16 Oct-31 Dec£1075 £19516 Apr-14 May, 1 Jul-15 Oct£1230 £35015 May-30 Jun£1375 £4955-star Hotel Astoria1 Jan-31 Mar, 1-13 May, 1-31 Aug,1 Oct-31 Dec£1495 £4301-30 Apr, 1-31 Jul, 1-30 Sep£1685 £61516 May-18 Jun, 24-30 Jun£2075 £9605-star Hotel Corinthia1 Jan-11 May, 11 Oct-31 Dec£1290 £42012 Jul-31 Aug, 1 -10 Oct£1490 £42512 May-11 Jul£1585 £6951-30 Sep£1390 £495Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers• Sightseeing tours with Englishspeakingguides <strong>as</strong> specified• All entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchesterand Newc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per personreturn79Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
LuxuryMoscow &St PetersburgTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality6 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-round80This new itinerary combines Moscow andSt Petersburg staying in some of the besthotels, and includes all transfers with Englishspeakingguides, city tours in each city andbusiness cl<strong>as</strong>s travel on the f<strong>as</strong>t train betweenMoscow and St Petersburg.Day 1 Fly to MoscowFly to Moscow and transfer to Ritz CarltonHotel for 2 nights.Day 2 MoscowMorning city tour of Moscow by private car. (B)Day 3 Moscow to St PetersburgFree morning in Moscow to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. Afternoontransfer to railway station for the f<strong>as</strong>t trainto St Petersburg. On arrival in St Petersburg,transfer to Grand Hotel Europe for 3 nights. (B)Day 4 St PetersburgMorning city tour of St Petersburg includingPeter and Paul Fortress. Rest of afternoon toexplore at leisure or book optional excursions. (B)Day 5 St PetersburgFree day in St Petersburg to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. (B)Day 6 St Petersburg to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B)Ritz Carlton / MoscowThe Ritz-Carlton is perfectly located justoff Red Square in the heart of the city andoffers 332 guest rooms and Ritz-Carlton ClubLevel rooms including 75 suites. The hotel h<strong>as</strong>several restaurants offering fine dining andthree lounges including the popular RooftopBar with panoramic views of the city skyline –perfect for pre-dinner drinks. After a busy daysightseeing guests can rejuvenate their bodiesand souls at ESPA, an exceptional Moscowluxury hotel spa.Grand Hotel Europe / St PetersburgOne of the most luxurious hotels in StPetersburg is now part of the Orient ExpressGroup and is listed <strong>as</strong> one of the “LeadingHotels of the World”. Located on the city’smain thoroughfare Nevsky Prospekt thishotel combines the charm of an imperial,pre-Revolutionary Russia with all the modernfacilities of a 5-star hotel. The hotel h<strong>as</strong> 301rooms and suites and facilities include 5restaurants, a café, bar, a ballroom, businesscentre and gym.Optional ExcursionsAsk us about booking optional excursions inMoscow and St Petersburg.MoscowStalin’s Bunker & Museum (3 hours)Kremlin Cathedrals & Armoury (4 hours)St PetersburgYusopov Palace (3 hours)Peterhof Grand Palace & Park (5 hours)Prices fromPer person twin-shareLow Se<strong>as</strong>on £20601 Jan-31 Mar, 16 Oct-31 DecMid Se<strong>as</strong>on £21251-30 Apr, 1-31 Aug, 1-15 OctHigh Se<strong>as</strong>on £24351 May-31 Jul, 1-30 SepPrices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in hotels <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers with English-speakingguide• Train tickets in business cl<strong>as</strong>s• Half-day city tour in Moscow and StPetersburg with English-speakingguidesPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person returnPle<strong>as</strong>e contact us for single roomsupplements and upgraded roomsat the hotelsCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
LuxuryMoscow& theGolden RingTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality6 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-roundThis new itinerary combines Moscow andthree of the cities on the Golden Ring -Sergiev Posad, Suzdal and Vladimir. Eachcity on the Golden Ring harbours a wealth oficons, ancient cathedrals, mon<strong>as</strong>teries andkremlins all reflecting their former importancein shaping Russian history. From SergievPosad, seat of the Russian Orthodox Churchto Vladimir, which w<strong>as</strong> founded by PrinceVladimir Monomakh in 1108 and is the firststop on the Trans-Siberian Railway.Day 3 MoscowFree day in Moscow to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. At Moscow’sheart lies a charming and truly unique capitalcity, abundant with esoteric museums,grand cathedrals, chic boutiques and worldrenowned theatres – all wrapped up in anarchitectural style distinctive to a countryshaped by a turbulent yet f<strong>as</strong>cinating historyof stately opulence and cultural revolutions. (B)Pushkarskaya Sloboda / SuzdalThis itinerary includes stays in some ofthe best hotels, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> all transfers withEnglish-speaking guides, a city tour in Moscowand extensive sightseeing of Sergiev Posad,Suzdal and Vladimir. Some lunches are alsoincluded and dinner can be arranged with alocal Russian family if you so wish.Day 1 Fly to MoscowFly to Moscow and transfer to Ritz CarltonHotel for 3 nights.Day 2 MoscowMorning city tour of Moscow by private car. (B)Day 4 Moscow to SuzdalMorning visit to Sergiev Posad and the TrinityLavra of St. Sergius, the spiritual centre of theRussian Orthodox Church. Drive to Suzdal,an important stop on the Golden Ring withits kremlin and numerous mon<strong>as</strong>teries andchurches. With a population of just over13,000, Suzdal still retains the look and feel ofa small village with streams and fields nearby,and chickens and livestock a common sight onthe dusty unpaved streets. This combinationof stunning medieval architecture withits p<strong>as</strong>toral setting lends Suzdal a ruralpicturesque charm. Check in to PushkarskayaSloboda Hotel for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 5 VladimirMorning visit to Suzdal’s Kremlin, NativityChurch and Pokrov Convent, which w<strong>as</strong>founded in 1364, and w<strong>as</strong> once a place of exilefor Russian ladies of noble birth, including theex-wife of Peter the Great. In the afternoondrive to Vladimir where the city tour includesthe great Cathedral of Dormition (UspenskyCathedral), the Church of St. Demetrius andthe impressive Golden Gates (1158–1164).(B,L,D)Day 6 Moscow to UKMorning excursion to the Museum of WoodenArchitecture before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B,L)This 4-star hotel is located on the RiverKamenka in the centre of Suzdal. The hotelcomplex comprises 19th-century buildingsand more recent additions built in a provincialRussian style. There are 86 good standardrooms (23 double rooms in wooden cabins andthe rest in the main building) and the hotel h<strong>as</strong>2 restaurants - ‘Traktir-Uley’ and ‘Pushkar’.Prices fromPer person twin-share £2345Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in hotels <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers with English-speakingguide• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchesterand Newc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per personreturn81Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
MoscowCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsFancy a break from borscht? Thenhead to the trendy O2 Lounge locatedhigh above the city on the 5-starRitz-Carlton hotel’s rooftop terrace.Serving some of Moscow’s finest sushiand s<strong>as</strong>himi, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> delicious grilledsteaks, sh<strong>as</strong>hlik and seafood, this is theplace to be seen and people watch <strong>as</strong>you relax in Fabergé-inspired chairs.82Getting thereFlights: British Airways direct fromLondon HeathrowDepartures: DailyFlight duration: 4 hoursRegional departures: Regionaldepartures are possible from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person return.Business Cl<strong>as</strong>s Supplement:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Transfer: Moscow DomodedovoAirport to city centre - 29 kilometres.Journey time is around 45 minutes.Private transfer price:£58 per car one-way (1-3 persons)£99 per mini-bus one-way (4-12persons)VISA: Russian Visa required (see page148 for details)PricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with BritishAirways and all airport taxes.When to goMoscow is an excellent city breakdestination all year round. Den’ Goroda(City Day), held in early September,celebrates the historic founding of thecity and includes various festivities andstreet parties <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> a free concerton the street of Tverskaia Ulitsa. RussianWinter Festival, usually held in the weekseither side of New Year, sees thousandsof Muscovites brave the freezing weatherto congregate on Izmailovsky Park,where festivities include traditional folkperformances, sleigh rides and plenty ofvodka drinking.Best Western Hotel VegaPrices from £475pp twin-shareThis is a v<strong>as</strong>t Soviet-style hotel block, part of theIzmailova hotel complex. Standards have v<strong>as</strong>tlyimproved since its opening for the MoscowOlympic Games, and the rooms are a goodstandard for a 3-star hotel. Although not in centralMoscow, it is located right by a metro station andyou can reach the centre within 25 minutes.Marriott Tverskaya HotelPrices from £615pp twin-shareLocated on an historic thoroughfare closeto Red Square and just a few yards from thenearest metro station, this is a convenientand comfortable choice of hotel. Interiors areelegant and guest rooms are well-appointed withall the modern amenities one would expect of ahotel of this calibre.Radisson Royal MoscowPrices from £725pp twin-shareWhat’s not to like about this gorgeous Art Decolandmark hotel that sits on a bend in the MoskvaRiver in a prestigious neighbourhood. The rooms arecl<strong>as</strong>sic and elegant with top of the range amenitiesand stunning views. You get to choose from severalgourmet restaurants and Red Square and theKremlin are just about within walking distance.Hotel National MoscowPrices from £730pp twin-shareYou can’t fault this cl<strong>as</strong>sy historical hotel with itssuperb location just off Red Square with lovelyviews of the Kremlin. The rooms are smart anddecorated using warm tones. As a member ofThe Luxury Collection you will find the servicehere impeccable.Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
St PetersburgCity Breaks<strong>Regent</strong> recommendsRussia is famous for its legendaryballet companies. The MariinskyTheatre is home to the world cl<strong>as</strong>sKirov Ballet (now known <strong>as</strong> theMariinsky Ballet) who put on dazzlingshows all year round inside thisabsolutely exquisite theatre. Bookearly, dress smart and sit back andmarvel at the graceful, seeminglysuperhuman dancers.Getting thereFlights: British Airways direct fromLondon HeathrowDepartures: DailyFlight duration: 3 hours 15 minutesRegional departures: Regionaldepartures are possible from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person return.Business Cl<strong>as</strong>s Supplement:Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices.Transfer: Pulkovo Airport to city centre– 15 kilometres. Journey time is around30 minutesPrivate transfer price:£49 per car one-way (1-3 persons)£75 per mini-bus one-way (4-12persons)VISA: Russian Visa required (see page148 for details)PricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, returnflights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with BritishAirways and all airport taxes.When to goSt Petersburg is aw<strong>as</strong>h with cultural eventsthroughout the year. White Nights in Junesees the streets brought to life throughoutthe night <strong>as</strong> the city b<strong>as</strong>ks in the midnightsun, while festivals such <strong>as</strong> Singing Worldand the International Early Music Festivalshowc<strong>as</strong>e the cream of Russia’s musicaltalent and the Beer Festival provides ajolly knees up. Sports fans can savourthe electric atmosphere of the PetrovskyStadium <strong>as</strong> Zenit St Petersburg take onrivals Spartak Moscow in March. In winter,the International Winter Festival ArtsSquare brings together a pantheon of thecity’s biggest museums and cultural venuesfor a programme of cl<strong>as</strong>sical music, theatre,ballet and exhibitions.Hotel DostoevskyPrices from £480pp twin-shareThis hotel continues to be a <strong>Regent</strong> favourite. Itis in a key location, occupying the top three floorsof the Vladimirsky P<strong>as</strong>sage Shopping Centre withcomfortable, understated rooms. Just a short walkfrom Nevsky Prospekt we recommend a stay here.Hotel Amb<strong>as</strong>sadorPrices from £535pp twin-shareYou will be amazed <strong>as</strong> you enter the plush foyerof this hotel – light, bright and stylish. The hotelcombines 19th-century style with moderntrappings and the rooms are all decorated incalming p<strong>as</strong>tel colours. It is also located withinwalking distance of many of St Petersburg’s majorattractions.+Angleterre Hotel St. PetersburgPrices from £645pp twin-shareOne of the first hotels in St Petersburg and a havenfor artists and poets in the 1920s, the Angleterreretains its cl<strong>as</strong>s and opulence. Overlooking StIsaac’s Cathedral, the elegant rooms combinecl<strong>as</strong>sic and modern styles and look on to the quietinner courtyard with the deluxe rooms facing StIsaac’s Square.Corinthia Hotel St. PetersburgPrices from £680pp twin-shareFollowing an award-winning renovation of two19th century buildings, the Corinthia is now amajor player in St Petersburg’s hotel scene. Ideallylocated right on Nevsky Prospekt, and right nextdoor to the metro, it couldn’t be better placed forvisits to the major sights and close to shops andrestaurants.83Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Moscow toSt PetersburgCruisesM/S LitvinovTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality10 daysRiver CruiseFully GuidedMay-Sept84From sprawling, cosmopolitan Moscow to thesplendours of imperial St Petersburg, journeythrough the beautiful, p<strong>as</strong>toral countryside ofRussia along canals, waterways and lakes, gazingat a land of ancient mon<strong>as</strong>teries and shimmeringforests of silver birch.Named after a Russian-Jewish revolutionary andSoviet diplomat, the M/S Litvinov is consideredto be one of the best and newest ships in itscl<strong>as</strong>s. Built in 1991 in Germany, the vessel w<strong>as</strong>refurbished in 2001. All cabins are outwardfacing with big picture windows. The cabins haveprivate WC/shower facilities and air coolingsystem. On board the ship are two dining rooms,two bars, a lounge, a small souvenir shop, readingsalon and beauty salon. The total capacity is 260p<strong>as</strong>sengers and 140 cabins.The following itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>ed on travel aboardthe M/S Litvinov, however, many other boatstravel between Moscow and St Petersburg,therefore if you don’t find a date to suityou, ple<strong>as</strong>e do not hesitate to contact us foralternatives.Day 1 Arrive MoscowFly to Moscow and transfer to your boat.Welcome dinner. (D)Day 2 MoscowExplore the city on a morning’s excursionincluding the colourful, multi-domed St B<strong>as</strong>il’sCathedral (outside only), Red Square, theLenin Mausoleum and the Bolshoi Theatre(outside only). (B,L,D)Day 3 MoscowEnjoy a morning excursion to the Kremlin andone of the cathedrals in the grounds. Timeat leisure or to book an optional excursionbefore the river cruise departs Moscow inthe evening. (B,L,D)Day 4 UglichCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agentDespite its name, Uglich is one of Russia’s mostpicturesque towns and is best viewed fromthe river. Visit the renowned green-domedCathedral of Transfiguration and the Churchof St Dmitry on the Blood. Evening Gala Dinnerhosted by the Captain. (B,L,D)Day 5 GoritsyAfternoon arrival at Goritsy, a typical Russianvillage. Enjoy an excursion to Kirillo-BelozerksyMon<strong>as</strong>tery and various optional events. (B,L,D)Day 6 Kizhi on Lake OnegaStop at the tiny fairytale island of Kizhi on thenorthern shore of Lake Onega. Island visitsinclude the open-air Museum of WoodenArchitecture which houses a collection ofrestored 18th century Russian wooden buildingsand the highlight of this visit - the breathtakingChurch of the Transfiguration. (B,L,D)Day 7 MandrogiStop at Mandrogi to relax on the verdant riverbank and enjoy the ple<strong>as</strong>ant scenery with apicnic lunch. (B,L,D)Day 8 St PetersburgEmbark on a morning sightseeing tour ofSt Petersburg to include photo stops ofAdmiralty Building, Winter Palace and StIsaac’s Cathedral. (B,L,D)Day 9 St PetersburgVisit the Hermitage, St Petersburg’s rival to theLouvre in Paris. The collection contains over threemillion exhibits. In the afternoon, perhaps choosean optional visit to Peterhof including the GrandPalace and park. (B,L,D)Day 10 St Petersburg to UKDisembark after breakf<strong>as</strong>t and enjoy a freemorning in St Petersburg before transferringto the airport for the return flight to the UK. (B)Prices fromMoscow to St Petersburg - 10 DaysPer person cabin-share £135012-21 May, 31 May-9 Jun, 19-28 Jun8-17 Jul, 27-5 Aug, 15-24 Aug, 3-12 Sep,22 Sep-1OctUpgrade to Upper Deck £50ppUpgrade to Boat Deck £105ppSingle Cabin Supplement £380St Petersburg to Moscow - 11 DaysPer person cabin-share £145021-31 May, 9-19 Jun, 28 Jun-8 Jul17-27 Jul, 5-15 Aug, 24 Aug-3 Sep12-22 SepUpgrade to Upper Deck £55ppUpgrade to Boat Deck £110ppSingle Cabin Supplement £425Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>swith British Airways from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Twin air-conditioned cabins withprivate facilities• Full board• All transfers• Captain’s welcome cocktail reception• Gala farewell dinner aboard• Full sightseeing programme in eachport of call• Russian language and song lessons• Nightly entertainment, dancing anddaily aerobics• Tour of the ship’s bridge• Port taxesPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person return• Alcoholic drinks with meals (exceptwhere specified)
Moscow toSt PetersburgCruisesM/S Russ orM/S ChernishevskyTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality12 daysRiver CruiseFully GuidedMay-SeptThis 12 day cruise along several Russian rivers,linked by the Moscow Canal and the BalticWaterway, is the perfect opportunity to explorebeautiful Russian landscapes and ancient townswith their impressive selection of historical andarchitectural gems.Both four deck vessels feature outside cabinswith air-conditioning, affording majestic views ofthe p<strong>as</strong>sing countryside. The dining rooms offerContinental and Russian cuisine, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> thespecialities of the surrounding regions. Thereare two restaurants, bars, a small souvenir shop,music room, dance hall and sauna.Day 1 Arrive MoscowFly to Moscow and transfer to your boat.Welcome dinner. (D)Day 2 MoscowExplore the city on a morning’s excursionthat will include the colourful, multi-domedSt B<strong>as</strong>il’s Cathedral (outside only), Red Square,the Lenin Mausoleum, the Bolshoi Theatre(outside only). (B,L,D)Day 3 MoscowEnjoy a morning excursion to the Kremlin and oneof the cathedrals in the grounds. Time at leisureor to book an optional excursion before the rivercruise departs Moscow in the evening. (B,L,D)Day 4 UglichDespite its name, Uglich is one of Russia’smost picturesque towns and is best viewedfrom the river. Visit the renowned greendomedCathedral of Transfiguration and theChurch of St Dmitry on the Blood. EveningGala Dinner hosted by the Captain. (B,L,D)Day 5 YaroslavlFounded in the 11th century by PrinceYaroslavl the Wise, Yaroslavl remains animportant port on the Volga. Enjoy a citytour including the magnificent 13th centuryPreobrazhenskiy Mon<strong>as</strong>tery complex and theChurch of Elijah the Prophet with its ancientfrescoes. (B,L,D)Day 6 GoritsyStop at Goritsy, a typical Russian village. Enjoyan excursion to Kirillo-Belozerksy Mon<strong>as</strong>teryand various optional events. (B,L,D)Day 7 Kizhi on Lake OnegaStop at the tiny fairytale island of Kizhi on thenorthern shore of Lake Onega. Island visitsinclude the open-air Museum of WoodenArchitecture which houses a collection ofrestored 18th century Russian wooden buildingsand the highlight of this visit - the breathtakingChurch of the Transfiguration. (B,L,D)Day 8 MandrogiStop at Mandrogi to relax on the verdant riverbank and enjoy the ple<strong>as</strong>ant scenery with apicnic lunch. (B,L,D)Day 9 St PetersburgEnjoy a morning sightseeing tour of StPetersburg to include photo stops ofAdmiralty Building, Winter Palace and StIsaac’s Cathedral. (B,L,D)Day 10 St PetersburgVisit the Hermitage, St Petersburg’s rival to theLouvre in Paris. The collection contains over threemillion exhibits. In the afternoon, visit Peterhofincluding the Grand Palace and park. (B,L,D)Day 11 St PetersburgFree day in St Petersburg for optionalexcursions. (B,L,D)Day 12 St Petersburg to UKDisembark after breakf<strong>as</strong>t and enjoy a freemorning before transferring to the airportfor the return flight to the UK. (B)Prices fromM/S RussMain Deck Price Per Person7-18 May £149028 May-8 Jun £170018-29 Jun £17009-20 Jul £167530 Jul-10 Aug £167520-31 Aug £1675M/S ChernishevskyMain Deck Price Per Person14-25 May £15504-15 Jun £170025 Jun-6 Jul £170016-27 Jul £16756-17 Aug £170027 Aug-7 Sep £155017-28 Sep £1550Upgrade to Upper Deck from £60ppUpgrade to Boat Deck from £120ppSingle Cabin Supplement from £285ppPrices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>swith British Airways from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Twin air-conditioned cabins withprivate facilities• Full board• All transfers• Captain’s welcome cocktail reception• Gala farewell dinner aboard• Full sightseeing programme in eachport of call• Language lessons and nightlyentertainment• Port taxesPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person return• Alcoholic drinks with meals (exceptwhere specified)85Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Moscow toSt PetersburgVolga DreamRiver CruiseTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality12 daysRiver CruiseFully GuidedMay-SeptCruise between Moscow and St Petersburg instyle aboard the luxurious Volga Dream andenjoy superb accommodation in each city. Thisis the highest quality boat that cruises on thisroute and the service and attention to detailare second to none.About the MS Volga DreamNewly rebuilt in 2007, the MS Volga Dreamis the first luxury cruise ship of its kind onthe Russian waterways. The ship carries 109p<strong>as</strong>sengers and approximately 60 staff tocater to your needs.At lunch and dinner times a choice of redor white wines is served <strong>as</strong> complimentarywith your meal. For those wishing somethingmore special, the Maitre D’ will be glad tooffer a selection of finest wines to accompanyyour meal.Volga Dream GoldEither side of the cruise, accommodation isprovided in the wonderful 5-star MarriottRoyal Aurora in Moscow and St Petersburg’sKempinski Moika 22, meaning that your luxuryholiday doesn’t just begin and end on the boat.Day 1 MoscowFly to Moscow and transfer to the MarriottRoyal or Ararat Park Hyatt for two nights.Rest of evening free at leisure.Day 2 MoscowHalf-day tour of Moscow followed by a tripon the Moscow metro. After lunch, visit theold Tretyakov Art Gallery. (B,L)Day 3 Moscow86Facilities on board include a dining roomserving Continental and Russian cuisine,Neva Lounge and bar with live music, LadogaBar, souvenir boutique, library with internetaccess, 24 hour tea and coffee station, beautysalon, laundry service, sauna, fitness centreand m<strong>as</strong>sage room.The ship h<strong>as</strong> 56 comfortable cabins. Eachstateroom h<strong>as</strong> either a window (Sun Deck,Promenade Deck, Main Deck) or porthole(standard staterooms on Cabin Deck). Cabinsare equipped with air conditioning, mini bar,safe, telephone and flat screen satellitetelevision.Food and WineThe Volga Dream offers the best of traditionalRussian cuisine and international flavours withextraordinary personal service and attentionto detail.Every day a delightful buffet lunch is servedin the restaurant with the international disheson offer inspired by the local produce boughtonshore that day. On sunny days guests areinvited up on to the Sun Deck to enjoy someal fresco dining and a barbecue lunch withbeautiful views of the Volga River drifting by.In the evening, the Chef will bring a la cartedining to your table night after night; fromfresh steamed sturgeon to a rack of lamb orsteak au poivoire, tiger prawns or authenticRussian borsch.Volga Dream PlatinumThe Volga Dream Platinum caters for thosediscerning travellers who prefer to travelprivately or in an intimate group. This journeyincludes accommodation in the finest 5-starhotels; the opulent 5-star Ararat Park Hyattin Moscow and St Petersburg’s Grand HotelEurope. Touring of the breathtaking sites isin groups of no more than 15 guests, anda special early entrance to the HermitageMuseum is also included.Morning tour of the Kremlin followed bytransfer to the Volga Dream and embarkationof cruise. Enjoy scenic views of the Moscow-Volga man-made canal <strong>as</strong> the ship leavesMoscow. (B,L,D)Day 4 UglichFar from ugly, the view <strong>as</strong> you approach Uglichfrom the Volga River is especially beautiful withthe Cathedral of the Resurrection and St. John’sChurch looming on the horizon. A walking tourof this Golden Ring city includes the 17thcenturyChapel of St. Dimitry on the Blood. Visitthe five-domed Church of the Transfiguration,noted for its beautiful iconost<strong>as</strong>is, and enjoy aconcert of choral music. (B,L,D)Day 5 YaroslavlFounded in the 11th century by PrinceYaroslav the Wise, Yaroslavl is the oldestcity on the Volga. The city w<strong>as</strong> undamagedduring World War II and many of Yaroslavl’schurches from the 13th-17th centuries areintact. Visit the Saviour TransfigurationMon<strong>as</strong>tery, adorned with murals depictingSaint John’s apocalyptic visions, and the 17thcentury Church of EIijah the Prophet. (B,L,D)Day 6 OritsySail on the White Lake, once known <strong>as</strong> the“Tsar’s fishing grounds”. Dock in Goritsyand tour the Kirillov-Belozersky Mon<strong>as</strong>tery,founded by the hermit Saint Cyril. (B,L,D)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Day 7 KizhiEnter the Volga/Baltic Canal for a stop atthe picturesque island of Kizhi which liesat the northern end of Lake Onega. Duringa walking tour of Kizhi, see the open airMuseum of Architecture, including theChurch of the Transfiguration – an oniondomed m<strong>as</strong>terpiece with 22 cupol<strong>as</strong> and builtwithout a single nail. (B,L,D)Day 8 Svir River and MandrogiCruise the scenic Svir River and disembark inMandrogi to experience daily life in a quaintwooden village. (B,L,D)Day 9 St PetersburgDisembark the boat and continue on a halfdaycity sightseeing tour of St Petersburgincluding Peter and Paul Fortress, the SmolnyCathedral, the Nevsky Prospect and theChurch on the Spilled Blood. After lunch,visit one of the most famous museums inthe world, the Hermitage. Continue to theHotel Angleterre or Grand Hotel Europe for3 nights.Day 10 St PetersburgHalf-day sightseeing tour to Peterhof. The lavishdécor of this palace is rivalled only by its famousgolden c<strong>as</strong>cade of fountains. After lunch, restof day free to explore or relax at leisure. (B,L)Day 11 St PetersburgThis morning, visit Tsar’s Village for a speciallyarranged visit to Catherine’s Palace. See theexquisitely restored Amber Room and stroll inthe formal gardens. Lunch and vodka t<strong>as</strong>ting atPodvorie, a restaurant in a traditional Russianlog house. (B,L)Day 12 St Petersburg to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-shareVolga Dream GoldMoscow to St PetersburgStandard Cabin on Cabin Deck11-22 May* £28251-12 Jun £282528 Jun-9 Jul £282511-22 Jul £282510-21 Aug £282523 Aug -3 Sep £28257-18 Sep £2825St Petersburg to MoscowStandard Cabin on Cabin Deck6-17 Jun £265020 Jun-1 Jul £26503-14 Jul £265016-27 Jul £265015-26 Aug £265012-23 Sep £2650Volga Dream PlatinumMoscow to St PetersburgStandard Cabin on Cabin Deck11-22 May £36701-12 Jun £367028 Jun-9 Jul £367011-22 Jul £367010-21 Aug £367023 Aug -3 Sep £36707-18 Sep £3670St Petersburg to MoscowStandard Cabin on Cabin Deck6-17 Jun £339520 Jun-1 Jul £33953-14 Jul £339516-27 Jul £339515-26 Aug £339512-23 Sep £3395Ple<strong>as</strong>e visit our website, or call a <strong>Regent</strong> Russia specialist for prices for Superioror Deluxe cabins on Main Deck, Promenade Deck, or Sun Deck.*Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that all accommodation will be on board the M/S Volga Dream on this date.Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways from London Heathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Standard twin air-conditioned cabin oncabin deck• Accommodation for 2 nights in Moscowand 3 nights in St Petersburg• All transfers• Full board (begins with dinner on day ofembarkation and ends with breakf<strong>as</strong>t onday of disembarkation.• House wine, draft beer and soft drinksare included with lunch and dinner.• Captain’s Welcome and Farewellcocktail reception• Welcome Russian Vodka, Breadand Salt Ceremony• Full sightseeing programme in each portof call with transfers, entrance fees andEnglish-speaking guide <strong>as</strong> per itinerary• Cl<strong>as</strong>sical music performed on board bystring quartet• All onboard entertainment programmes• Port taxesPrices exclude• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Regional add-ons from Aberdeen,Edinburgh, Gl<strong>as</strong>gow, Manchester andNewc<strong>as</strong>tle from £95 per person return87Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Trans-SiberianThe Inside StoryFor more than a century, the Trans-Siberian trains havechugged across the world’s largest country and p<strong>as</strong>t theworld’s deepest lake regardless of weather, revolution orpolitical upheaval, providing an essential link for familiesand traders alike.Transporting refugees, exotic and mundane goods and thoseseeking a new life, these are working trains not designedfor luxury. As fellow travellers you will share your days withmany varied nationalities and your most vivid memories willbe from these chance meetings <strong>as</strong> much <strong>as</strong> from the sceneryand typically Soviet facilities.Trace the history of this intriguing region <strong>as</strong> you p<strong>as</strong>s throughiconic cities and towns such <strong>as</strong> Ekaterinburg where theRomanovs met their end, Ulan Ude with its unique Buryatculture and oversized monument of Lenin’s head, and Irkutsk,near Lake Baikal, with its fine Decembrist architecture.Disembark at Ulaanbaatar to explore the v<strong>as</strong>t Gobi Desertor make Datong your l<strong>as</strong>t stop if you plan to make the onwardjourney to South Korea by ferry.Storyto tell -ChristinaGibbonsWhy I love theTrans-SiberianThe Trans-SiberianRailway is simply the besttravel experience I haveever had. I loved everyminute from practisingmy Russian with thelocals we met on boardto the vodka and foodwe sampled alongthe way. I wouldtravel on this epicjourney again in aheartbeat!Trans-Siberian Route (Distance from Moscow in km)0Moscow442Nizhny Novgorod1816Yekaterinburg2712Omsk4098Kr<strong>as</strong>noyarskRUSSIA191Vladimir1436Perm 22144Tyumen3335Novosibirsk
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday on the Trans-Siberian RailwayBAM Railway GroupTour16 days from £3485pp twin-shareDates: 13 -28 Aug 2013New for 2013 is our smalladventurous group tour travellingon the Baikal-Amur-Mainline(BAM) from Severobaikalsk viaTynda, Komsomolsk-on-Amurand Khabarovsk to Vladivostok.Officially opened in 1989, itw<strong>as</strong>n’t until 10 years later thatthe first tourists could take thetrain. Mountains, marshes andpermafrost challenge engineersdaily <strong>as</strong> the BAM railway cutsthrough contr<strong>as</strong>ting landscapesp<strong>as</strong>sing rivers, lakes, tundra andthrough tunnels.Tsar’s Gold Private Train16 days from £3345 pp twin-shareDates: Various summerExperience the iconic Trans-Siberian journey in style aboardthe Tsar’s Gold private train. All ofyour accommodation, rail tickets,transfers, sightseeing and mealsare taken care of, leaving you freeto enjoy the journey in comfort.Set this dream of a lifetime onthe tracks and experience Russia,Mongolia and China in the safest,most comfortable and f<strong>as</strong>cinatingmanner. Lean back and enjoy thedramatic changes of scenery <strong>as</strong>this journey delivers three of theworld’s largest countries directlyto your stylish compartment.Great Trans-SiberianRailway Group Tour14 days from £1850pp twin-shareDates: Various year-roundTaking in the very best of theTrans-Mongolian, this itinerary is acomprehensive and authentic wayto experience this iconic journey.Begin your journey with blini andvodka outside Moscow’s Kremlin,ramble along the shores of LakeBaikal, sleep in a comfortable,traditional ger on the Mongoliansteppes and finish with kite flyingin communist Beijing!See our website for more Trans-SibGroup Tour options.MOSCOWSeverodvinsk ArchangelFINLANDKozhvaVorkutaTroitsko-PechorskNoyabr'skPetrozavodskSyktyvkarSurgutHelsinkiNizhnevartovskSt. PetersburgVologdaSerovOb'TallinnRUSSIAEST.Perm'Yaroslavl'Tyumen'Kr<strong>as</strong>noyarskAngaraUst'-ilimskRigaTomskLT Moscow KazanYekaterinburgBratskLIT.TulaOufaOmsk Novosibirsk KanskVilniusNizhniyNovgorodAbakanL. BaykalMinskOrenburgBELARUS Kursk VoronezhIrkutskNovotroitskChitaAstanaBiyskBlagoveshchenskKiev SaratovJagdaqiUKRAINEKAZAKHSTAN QaraghandyVolgogradUlaanbaatar HailarChisinauZhezqazghanRostovna-DonuQyzylordaShiheziMONGOLIA QiqiharL. Balkh<strong>as</strong>hROM. MOLD.Astrakhan’Kizil-Tal YiningHarbinC<strong>as</strong>pian AralUrumqiBlack Sea TbilisiSea DzhambulSeaBishkekBULG.GEO.HamiKYRG.KorlaBaotou HohhotAnkaraARM.UZB.BakuT<strong>as</strong>hkent AksuCHINAWuhaiYerevan AZ. TURKM.BeijingJinchangTURKEYTAJ.Ashgabat DushanbeShizuishanYuciDanubeDnieperVolgaVolgaOb'IrtyshYeniseyHuangLenaAmurBEIJINGTrans-Siberian - Perfect ForFor travellers who recognise it’s the journey and not the arrival that matters,a trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway cannot be beaten. Those wanting toexperience Russia beyond Moscow and St Petersburg will find many historiccities, authentic working towns and picturesque scenery along the route,providing an in-depth glimpse into this v<strong>as</strong>t region.5642Ulan-UdeMONGOLIA5925Sühbaatar7013Dzamyn UdeCHINA7483Datong(for ferry to S.Korea)5178Irkutsk (for Lake Baikal)5900Dozorny6304Ulaanbaatar (for GobiDesert)7023Erlian7865Beijing89Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Moscow toBeijing viaIrkutsk &MongoliaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality13 daysIndividual TourRailwayYear-roundTaking in the very best of the Trans-Mongolian, this is our most popular rail-b<strong>as</strong>editinerary. Experience the cosmopolitan buzzof Moscow before embarking on the journeyof a lifetime on one of the world’s longest andmost diverse railway routes.Day 8 Train to UlaanbaatarTransfer from hotel to Irkutsk Railway Stationfor train to Ulaanbaatar. (B)Day 9 Terelj National Park90En route, stop off at the magnificent LakeBaikal including a visit to the charmingListvyanka village before spending two nightsin a traditional ger camp in Mongolia whereyou will learn the ways of nomadic life.Day 1 MoscowArrive Moscow, transfer to your hotel forovernight stay.Day 2 Train to IrkutskFree day in Moscow to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. With an abundanceof sights at your disposal, including the Kremlin,St B<strong>as</strong>il’s, Red Square, Church of the Christ theSaviour and the Tretyakov Gallery, it won’tbe difficult to keep busy. Evening transfer torailway station for train to Irkutsk. (B)Day 3-5 On TrainOn train to Irkutsk p<strong>as</strong>sing throughEkaterinburg, Omsk and Novosibirsk – someof Russia’s most historically important cities.Day 6 IrkutskArrive Irkutsk, transfer to your hotel andcheck in for 2 nights. (B)Day 7 Lake BaikalEnjoy a full-day excursion with lunch to thesmall village of Listvyanka scenically perchedon the shores of the great Lake Baikal. Weinclude a transfer by hydrofoil (summers only)to Listvyanka and return by car with a visit enroute at the Taltsy Ethnographic Museum. (B,L)Arrive Ulaanbaatar and transfer by car to TereljNational Park for 2 nights in camp. Sightseeingtour of the area including a visit to an ancienttemple and optional horse riding. (L,D)Day 10 Terelj National ParkContinue excursion of Terelj National Parkwith a visit to a nomadic family to learn abouttheir lifestyle, sample local produce and helperect a traditional ger. (B,L,D)Day 11 UlaanbaatarAfter breakf<strong>as</strong>t transfer back to Ulaanbaatarfor lunch followed by a city tour. Folk concert,dinner and overnight stay at hotel. (B,L,D)Day 12 Train to BeijingMorning transfer to railway station forovernight train to Beijing (NB only operateson Thursdays year-round).Day 13 BeijingTour ends on arrival in Beijing.Beijing Add-OnSpend 3 days exploring the remnants ofChina’s imperial p<strong>as</strong>t, from the ForbiddenCity and Temple of Heaven to the Great Walland f<strong>as</strong>t-disappearing Hutongs.Per person twin-share £335Single room supplement £130Our Beijing add-on includes 3 nightsaccommodation at a 4-star central hotelwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t, return transfers, day tour ofBeijing and day tour to the Great Wall andMing Tombs including lunch.Prices fromPer person twin-share £16251st cl<strong>as</strong>s 2-berth supplement £395Prices include• Accommodation in 3-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Accommodation in private ger in TereljNational Park on full board b<strong>as</strong>is• Arrival and departure transfers inRussia and Mongolia• Train tickets in 2nd cl<strong>as</strong>s 4-berthcompartments• Sightseeing <strong>as</strong> specified with EnglishspeakingguidesPrices exclude• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor best available prices• Russian, Mongolian and Chinese Vis<strong>as</strong>(see page 148)• Meals on the trainsExtra notesThis itinerary can be operated on any day ifthe Sunday morning f<strong>as</strong>t train from Irkutskto Ulaanbaatar is substituted with theSaturday night standard train to Mongolia.We can also book stays in Listvyankaand Lake Baikal. Ple<strong>as</strong>e note thatocc<strong>as</strong>ionally the Sunday f<strong>as</strong>t train Irkutskto Ulaanbaatar is cancelled, should thishappen clients would be rebooked onto thetrain departing Irkutsk Saturday evening.Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Moscow toVladivostokTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality12 daysIndividual TourRailwayYear-roundThis journey is the true Trans-Siberian,traversing an incredible eight time zonesand linking a diverse range of cultures.Vladivostok, a naval outpost, forbidden toforeigners for so long, is now well and trulyopen for business. This itinerary includes <strong>as</strong>top off at Irkutsk and Lake Baikal.Day 1 MoscowArrive Moscow, transfer to hotel for overnightstay.Day 2 Train to IrkutskFree day in Moscow to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. Evening transfer torailway station for train to Irkutsk. (B)Day 3-5 On TrainOn train to Irkutsk p<strong>as</strong>sing through Perm,Ekaterinburg and Omsk.Day 6 IrkutskArrive Irkutsk and transfer to your hotel andcheck in for 2 nights. (B)Day 7 Lake BaikalEnjoy a full day excursion with lunch toListvyanka on Lake Baikal. We include atransfer by hydrofoil (summers only) toListvyanka and return by car with a visit enroute at the Taltsy Ethnographic Museum. (B,L)Day 8 Train to VladivostokTransfer from hotel to Irkutsk Railway Stationfor train to Vladivostok. (B)Day 9-10 On TrainOn train to Vladivostok p<strong>as</strong>sing through UlanUde and Khabarovsk. (B,L,D)Day 11 VladivostokArrive early morning, transfer to hotel forovernight stay.Day 12 Depart VladivostokYou can either fly back to Moscow or fly toPyongyang (Thursdays only) to join one ofour North and South Korea Tours. (Ple<strong>as</strong>esee page 124 for details of our tours to NorthKorea). (B)Stop off in EkaterinburgLooking for cities to stop off en route? Thenconsider Ekaterinburg, an attractive andprosperous city located in the foothills ofthe Urals. Infamous <strong>as</strong> the place where theRomanovs were murdered and known <strong>as</strong> thebirthplace of Boris Yeltsin, Ekaterinburg isa worthy stop on the Trans-Siberian. Here,you can experience a real Russian banyaand take part in various activities accordingto se<strong>as</strong>on from ice-fishing and snowsafaris, to gentle rafting on the River Sergaor mountain biking in the Urals.Per person twin-share £225single room supplement £140Our Ekaterinburg add-on includes 2 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t in superior3-star Park Inn Ekaterinburg, all transfers, atour to the Romanov Mon<strong>as</strong>tery complex andthe Europe/Asia Obelisk. We can book a numberof excursions in and around Ekaterinburg.Stop off in Ulan UdeAnother overlooked city on the Trans-Siberianroute is Ulan Ude, the capital of the BuryatRepublic. Formerly a Cossack garrison, UlanUde became an important trading post onthe tea route between China and Irkutsk.The Ethnographic Museum here cataloguesthousands of years of native Buryat culture.You can visit the impressive Ivolginsky Datsan,(a Tibetan Buddhist mon<strong>as</strong>tery), <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong>experience old Russian culture in a village of‘Old Believers’, whose inhabitants still dressand worship <strong>as</strong> their ancestors did hundredsof years ago.Per person twin-share £375single room supplement £150Our Ulan Ude add-on includes 2 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t in a 3-starhotel, all transfers, an excursion to IvolginskyDatsan and the Old Believers’ village. Wecan book a number of other excursions e.g.camping in the beautiful Zabaikalsk NationalPark, hiking and kayaking on Lake Baikal.Prices fromPer person twin-share £13201st cl<strong>as</strong>s 2-berth supplement £510Prices include• Accommodation in 2 & 3-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Accommodation in Listvyanka inhome-stay with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers• Train tickets in 2nd cl<strong>as</strong>s 4-berthcompartmentPrices exclude• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for best available prices• Russian Visa (see page 148)• Meals on the trains91Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
UkraineThe Inside StoryThe Orange Revolution brought the world’s attention todevelopments in Ukraine and now the ancient towns, v<strong>as</strong>tplains and Black Sea co<strong>as</strong>t are firm favourites with visitors.View dazzling frescoes, old cathedrals and charmingBaroque and Renaissance architecture in the popular citiesof Kiev and Lviv.Venture into the dramatic Carpathian Mountains, wherethe ethnic Hutsul people follow their traditions in hiddenvalleys, and hike to the peak of the highest mountain,Goverla, for superb panoram<strong>as</strong>. Search out the profusionof c<strong>as</strong>tles and wooden churches, in particular medievalKamenets Podilsky teetering on a rocky outcrop.Head to the Crimea for some wine t<strong>as</strong>ting and take inthe historical landmark, Balaklava, and the undergroundsubmarine b<strong>as</strong>e at Sev<strong>as</strong>topol.In Odessa, relax on the sandy beach on the shores of theBlack Sea and pose for a photograph on the Potemkin Steps.Storyto tell -AndreaGodfreyWhy I loveUkraineHaving spent over threeyears living in Kiev,Ukraine is my secondhome. It h<strong>as</strong> everythingfor a memorableholiday – vibrant cities,incredible architecture,fabulous beaches,wonderful mountainscenery and greatvodka!989Kyivan Rus established<strong>as</strong> the first e<strong>as</strong>ternSlavic state1775Catherine the Great ordersthe destruction of the Cossacksettlement at Zaporizhzhya1921Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republicestablished <strong>as</strong> Russian Red Armyconquers two-thirds of Ukraine1945Allied victory in WWII leadsto Soviet annexation ofwestern Ukrainian lands1986Reactor at Chernobylnuclear power stationexplodes killing thousands1554Fiercest band of Cossacks- the Zaporizhzhya Sich –set up on an island in theDnipro River1917Central Rada (Council) set upin Kiev following collapse ofRussian EmpireWWIISuffers terrible dev<strong>as</strong>tationunder Nazi occupation until19441960sIncre<strong>as</strong>e in covertopposition to Sovietrule
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in UkraineKiev & ChernobylGroup Tour17 – 22 June 2013From £995 pp twin-shareWith a f<strong>as</strong>cinating introduction toKiev, the ple<strong>as</strong>ant Ukrainian capital,this small group tour also includesan in-depth visit to Chernobyl, aplace ever synonymous with them<strong>as</strong>sive nuclear dis<strong>as</strong>ter thatrocked the Soviet Union and theworld in 1986. Spending two daystouring inside the “ChernobylNuclear Power Plant ExclusionZone,” including one night inChernobyl itself, staying in a smallhotel built for scientific advisors, wegain an insight into the Chernobylstory, from the p<strong>as</strong>t to the present.Yalta Beach Holiday7 nights from £795pp twin-shareStay 7 nights half-board at the4-star Hotel Oreanda, a landmarkhotel in Yalta dating back to 1907.Located on the main promenadein the centre of Yalta, a few metresaway from the hotel’s private beach,this is THE place to stay in Yalta.There are 114 stylish rooms withstunning sea or mountain views.Oreanda Restaurant offers French,Italian and, of course, Ukrainiandishes, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> an extensive winelist which includes local wines ofthe best vintages. The hotel h<strong>as</strong>many facilities including indoor andoutdoor pools, wellness centre andbeauty salon.Radisson Blu KievHHHHLocated within walking distanceof the main street, Khreschatyk,the Radisson SAS Hotel in Kiev isa reflection of the city’s majesticp<strong>as</strong>t. An architectural monument,the hotel’s facade w<strong>as</strong> restoredto its original splendour while theinteriors were renovated to offer afirst cl<strong>as</strong>s feel. The spacious roomshave flat-screen LCD televisions,coffee and tea-making facilities andfree high-speed Internet access.The hotel h<strong>as</strong> two restaurants, whilethe K-Largo Cigar Bar is the placeto enjoy a cocktail after a long dayof sightseeing.Ask us about city break packagesstaying at the Radisson Blu.KIEVSemenovkaRUSSIABELARUSMena ShostkaBurynChernihiv KonotopSumyOvruchNizhynBakhmachDubrovytsaOlevskPolis’keRomny OkhtyrkaKozeletsKharkivSarnyPryluky HadyachPOLAND KovelKorostenBrovaryMerefa Chuhuyiv Kup’yans’kNovohrad- IrpinLubnyMyrhorodBalakliyaRivne VolynskyyBoryspilLuts’kPoltavaLysychans’kZhytomyr KYYIVKhorolSlov’yans’kNovovolyns’kSlavutaLuhans’kDubnoShepetivkaZolotonosha LozovaChervonohradBilaRadyvyliv BerdychivCherk<strong>as</strong>yKr<strong>as</strong>nyy LuchKozyatynSmila Kremenchuk HarlivkaBuzkaL’vivKhemel’nyts’kyy DnipropetrovskDonets’kTernopil’VinnytsyaUKRAINESambirTalne NovomirgorodChortkiv ZhmerynkaDrohobych StryyHaysynUman’ KirovohradZaporizhzyaIvano-Tul’chynKryvyy RihMariupol’SLOVAKIAFrankivs’kPervomays’kNikopol’MohyliovKodyma YuzhnoukrayinksUzhhorodKolomyya Podil’s’kyy Yampil’B<strong>as</strong>htankaKhustChernivtsiMelitopol’Kotovs’k Voznesens’k SnihurivkaRakhiv MOLDOVASeaBerezivkaKakhovkaNovaofHUNGARYOdessaKhersonCHISINAUAzovROMANIAOdesaSkadoys’kKerchBielhorod-Artsyz Dniestrovs’kyy Chornomors’kyyTatarbunaryBolhradSimferepol’IzmayilSev<strong>as</strong>topo’lBugCarpathianMountainsDniesterDnieperBlack SeaUkraine - Perfect ForHistory buffs will find plenty of points of interest in Ukraine. In Sev<strong>as</strong>tapol,survey the eerie battlefields of Balaklava where, during the Crimean War,the Charge of the Light Brigade entered the infamous ‘Valley of Death’. Fansof religious architecture will be f<strong>as</strong>cinated by stunning churches and uniquecave mon<strong>as</strong>teries where you can browse the crypts filled with mummifiedmonks. Rail enthusi<strong>as</strong>ts will no doubt enjoy the overnight trains betweenUkraine’s main cities.1991Ukraine declaresindependencefollowing attemptedcoup in Moscow1996Andrea Godfrey, <strong>Regent</strong>Programme Manager,moves to Kiev to managea travel agency2000Chernobyl nuclear powerplant shut down, 14 yearsafter the accident2010Parliament votesto abandon NATOmembership <strong>as</strong>pirations1988Prominent writers andintellectuals set up UkrainianPeople’s Movement forRestructuring (Rukh)1994L. Kuchma becomespresident and movesto reform economy1997Friendship treatysigned with Russia2004“Orange revolution”leads to a fairer secondelection; Yushchenkobecomes president2012Euro 2012 FootballChampionship held inPoland and Ukraine93Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof UkraineTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality11 or 14 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis is an ideal itinerary for first time visitors toUkraine and is one of our most popular tours.Using convenient overnight trains, we link upthe main but diverse cities of Kiev, Lviv andOdessa. In Kiev, you can explore architecturaltre<strong>as</strong>ures such <strong>as</strong> the 11th century St SophiaCathedral and the Caves Mon<strong>as</strong>tery (PecherskLarva), with its gold-domed churches andunderground tunnels lined with mummifiedmonks. In the Habsburg town of Lviv, you canspend leisurely afternoons in Viennese-stylecoffee houses, before continuing on to Odessato visit the famous Potemkin Steps and explorethe region’s rich maritime history.This itinerary does not include any sightseeing,leaving you free to spend your days <strong>as</strong> you wish.However, we can book a variety of tours andexcursions in and around the cities if required.Day 1 Fly to KievFly to Kiev, transfer to hotel for 2 nights.Day 2 KievFree day in Kiev to explore at leisure or bookoptional excursions. (B)Day 3 Kiev to LvivFree day before overnight train to Lviv. (B)Day 8 OdessaFree day in Odessa to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. (B)Day 9 Odessa to Kiev (or Yalta –see Crimea add-on)Free day before overnight train to Kiev orSimferopol. (B)Day 10 KievArrive Kiev and transfer to hotel for overnightstay. (B)Day 11 Kiev to UKFly back to the UK. (B)Crimea add-onTo complete your tour to Ukraine continue onto the Crimean Peninsula, a place of forestedstony mountains, deep canyons, dramaticco<strong>as</strong>tal scenery, verdant greenery and Russianand Tartar palaces. Yalta is the best place tob<strong>as</strong>e your stay, <strong>as</strong> from here you can take <strong>as</strong>eries of day trips to most of Crimea’s sitesand tre<strong>as</strong>ures.Day 9 Odessa to YaltaDay 14 Kiev to UKFly back to the UK. (B)Prices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £895Single room supplement £2454-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1165Single room supplement £245Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withUkraine International direct fromLondon Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Hotel accommodation <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All arrival transfers• Train tickets in 1st cl<strong>as</strong>s 2-berthcompartmentsPrices exclude• All departure transfersCrimea add-on (3 days)Prices from94Day 4 LvivArrive Lviv and transfer to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 5 LvivFree day in Lviv to explore at leisure or bookoptional excursions. (B)Day 6 Lviv to OdessaFree day before overnight train to Odessa. (B)Day 7 OdessaArrive Odessa and transfer to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Free day before overnight train to Simferopol.Day 10 YaltaArrive Simferopol, transfer to hotel in Yaltafor 3 nights. (B)Day 11-12 YaltaFree days in Yalta to explore the CrimeanPeninsula or book optional excursions. (B)Day 13 Yalta to KievFly to Kiev with Ukraine Internationaldirect from Simferopol, transfer to hotel forovernight stay. (B)Standard roomPer person twin-share £295Single room supplement £125Business Cl<strong>as</strong>s roomPer person twin-share £335Single room supplement £165Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withUkraine International direct fromLondon Gatwick• All arrival transfers• One-way flight, Simferopol to KievPrices exclude• All departure transfersCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Kiev &CrimeaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis incre<strong>as</strong>ingly popular itinerary combinesthe spectacular scenery of the CrimeanPeninsula with cosmopolitan Kiev. Crimeah<strong>as</strong> so much to offer visitors with such sights<strong>as</strong> the opulent Livadia Palace, where Churchill,Roosevelt and Stalin came to their historicagreement after World War II. You canexplore Crimea’s long history in the ruins ofChersonesus, an ancient fortress founded byGreek sailors and the remains of the CrimeanTatar Khan’s Palace in Bakhchisarai.Yalta, nestling in a co<strong>as</strong>tal alcove at the b<strong>as</strong>e ofthe picturesque Crimean Mountains, makesa superb year-round holiday destination.Its position protects the town from theelements, giving Yalta a unique microclimate.The town itself is a jumble of winding littlestreets stretching around the seafront.Restaurants, c<strong>as</strong>inos, shops and bars line themain promenade, which is crowded with streethawkers offering everything from palm readingto portrait photos in 18th century costumes.The town owes its de-rigueur status <strong>as</strong> anelegant resort to Tsar Alexander II. Alexanderw<strong>as</strong> so captivated by Yalta he created hissummer residence at nearby Livadia, therebyinitiating a wave of aristocratic palace-buildingprojects along the co<strong>as</strong>t.This itinerary does not include any sightseeing,leaving you free to spend your days <strong>as</strong> you wish.However, we can book a variety of tours in andaround Yalta including a day tour to Sev<strong>as</strong>topoland the Panorama Museum, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> a winet<strong>as</strong>ting tour of the M<strong>as</strong>sandra Winery, keepersof the Tsar’s favourite vintage.Day 1 Fly to SimferopolFly to Simferopol, transfer to hotel in Yaltafor 5 nights.Day 2-5 YaltaFree days in Yalta to explore the CrimeanPeninsula or book optional excursions. (B)Day 6 Fly to KievFree morning depending on time of flightbefore flying to Kiev and transfer to hotelfor 2 nights. (B)Day 7 KievFree day in Kiev to explore at leisure or bookoptional excursions. (B)Day 8 Kiev to UKFly back to the UK. (B)<strong>Regent</strong> RecommendsThe Great Patriotic War museum is one ofKiev’s absolute must-sees. Don’t be put offby the lack of English signs and descriptions<strong>as</strong> few other war museums come close to thevisceral impact of its enormous collectionof weaponry, letters, photographs andpropaganda from World War II, all housed ina striking Soviet building.Hotel Bristol / YaltaThis delightful hotel, a <strong>Regent</strong> favourite, is nowa 4-star hotel with its recent refurbishmentand opening of the hotel pool. The hotel islocated in the centre of Yalta, just around thecorner from M<strong>as</strong>sandra beach and seafront.The hotel is one of the oldest in Yalta. It h<strong>as</strong>a selection of different room types and ourprices include business rooms. Facilities at thehotel include a restaurant, terrace patio, barand sauna. All rooms have en-suite bathroom,phone, internet access, TV, mini-bar and airconditioning.Prices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £750Single room supplement £2754-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £860Single room supplement £375Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withUkraine International Airlines via Kievfrom London Gatwick• All airport taxes and security charges• Hotel accommodation <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All arrival transfersPrices exclude• All departure transfers95Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof WesternUkraineTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-round96This individual itinerary h<strong>as</strong> been specificallydesigned to visit the relatively undiscoveredregion of Western Ukraine, where you cansee unique architecture in the Old Habsburgtown of Lviv, the twisted cupol<strong>as</strong> of St Nichol<strong>as</strong>Cathedral in Chernivtsi and rolling green hillsand mountains of the Carpathians, wherefolk art and traditions of ethnic groups such<strong>as</strong> the Hutsuls have survived for centuries inthe hidden valleys.On this tour you will have your own privatecar and English-speaking guide accompanyingyou throughout.Day 1 Fly to LvivFly to Lviv and transfer to Hotel Euro or HotelOpera for 2 nights.Day 2 LvivMorning city tour of Lviv including MarketSquare, Boyim Chapel and Vysoky Zamok(High C<strong>as</strong>tle), which h<strong>as</strong> breathtaking viewsof the city. Afternoon visit to the Museum ofFolk Architecture near Lviv, an impressivecollection of ethnic crafts from regions ofWestern Ukraine. (B)Day 3 Lviv to YaremcheDrive to the town of Yaremche, the main gateto the Carpathian National Nature Park. TheRiver Prut runs through Yaremche and <strong>as</strong>eries of bridges and ruins of former bridgescross the river. Not far from the town are theDovbusha Cliffs and some lovely trails, idealfor walking. We include a walking tour aroundthe village, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> a visit to a traditionalhandicraft market. Further afield a trip ismade to the mountain village and ski resortof Bukovel. (B)Day 4 Yaremche to ChernivtsiDrive via Kolomiya to Chernivtsi andcheck in to Hotel Bukovyna for 1 night. InKolomiya visit Pysanka Museum – a fancifulegg shaped building, which stands 12metres tall and houses the world’s largestcollection of hand-painted E<strong>as</strong>ter eggs, forwhich Ukraine is known. We also include avisit to the Museum of Hutsul Folk Art andits displays of intricately handmade Hutsulclothing, recreations of Hutsul dwellings andnumerous regional Carpathian ceramics andwoodcarvings. In the afternoon enjoy a citytour of Chernivtsi, including the Byzantinestylered-bricked university and the twistedcupol<strong>as</strong> of St Nichol<strong>as</strong>. The city of Chernivtsiis located in the foothills of the CarpathianMountains, on the banks of the River Prut.The town is an old outpost of the HabsburgEmpire and had a large Armenian, Jewish andGerman population. This, combined with thewide variety of architectural styles, gives thecity a more relaxed and southern feel thanother Ukrainian cities. (B)Day 5 Chernivtsi to KamenetsPodilskyDrive to Kamenets Podilsky, one of the oldestcities in Ukraine. Sights here, include thec<strong>as</strong>tle, Armenian Quarter and Cathedral ofPeter and Paul. Transfer to Hotel Halychynafor overnight stay. (B)Day 6 Kamenets Podilsky to LvivTransfer back to Lviv including an excursionen route to the impressive Pochaiv Mon<strong>as</strong>teryand the village of Pidkamin. Pidkamin isa picturesque village with a wonderfulBaroque church. The Dominican Mon<strong>as</strong>teryin Pidkamin w<strong>as</strong> turned into an <strong>as</strong>ylum by theSoviets and h<strong>as</strong> just recently been given backto the church (though part of it still belongsto the psychiatric hospital). Drive to Lviv andtransfer to Hotel Euro or Hotel Opera for 2nights. (B)Day 7 LvivFree day to explore Lviv at leisure or bookoptional excursions. (B)Day 8 Lviv to UKTransfer to the airport for flight back to theUK. (B)Prices from3-star Hotel Euro, Lviv optionPer person twin-share £1255Single room supplement £1994-star Hotel Opera, Lviv optionPer person twin-share £1415Single room supplement £250Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withUkraine International from LondonGatwick via Kiev• All airport taxes and security charges• Hotel accommodation <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
UkraineCity BreaksThese three unique cities all havesomething very different to offer.For a typically Ukrainian experience,don’t miss out on the Great PatrioticWar Museum in Kiev, SALO in Lviv –a museum and restaurant dedicatedto the nation’s most popular snack ofcured pig fat, or watching the worldgo by from a café in Odessa’s se<strong>as</strong>idedistrict of Arkadia.KievLvivOdessaThe Capital and the largest city in Ukraine,Kiev is an important industrial, historicand cultural centre of E<strong>as</strong>tern Europe. Bebowled over by the cupol<strong>as</strong> of St Sophia’sCathedral, the city’s oldest church, and thebreathtaking colourful frescoes and mosaicswhich adorn the inside. Wander throughMaiden Nezalezhnosti, the scene of theOrange Revolution, and allow plenty of timeto discover the mon<strong>as</strong>tery, churches andunderground cave at Pecherska Lavra.Start your exploration in the 16th centurymarket square with its cobbled, windingroads, palaces, fountains, statues and myriadarchitectural styles including Baroque,Renaissance and Gothic. There is a churchon virtually every corner and the city bo<strong>as</strong>tsthe best museums and galleries in the country.Indulge in a cake in one of the many Viennesestylecoffee houses, then walk off your guiltby climbing up to Vysoki Zanok (High C<strong>as</strong>tle)for stunning views across the city.Enjoy a warm welcome in relaxed Odessa.Promenade along Derib<strong>as</strong>ivs’ka Street withits glorious monuments, shops, restaurantsand bars. Check out Shevchenko Park andVorontsov’s Palace, both with views of thesparkling Black Sea. Roam the catacombsunder the city before descending by cable carto the white sands of Otrada Beach. Banqueton fresh fish in a shore-side restaurant beforetaking in a performance in the Baroque andRococo Opera and Ballet Theatre.When to goThe month of May is always an interestingtime to visit Kiev. On Victory Day, the 9th, thewhole city lines the streets to commemoratethose who died in World War II and to witnessthe colourful pomp and ceremony of theparading military. Kiev Days Festival, usuallyon the l<strong>as</strong>t weekend of the month, sees Kievtransformed into an open-air stage, hostinglive concerts, dance performances andspectacular nightly firework displays.When to goLviv h<strong>as</strong> been dubbed the ‘festival capital ofUkraine’ and you can expect to be met by atraditional celebration or wacky event whatevertime of year you visit. In January, the DoughnutFestival takes over the City Hall with folk musicwhile February’s Festival of Chocolate includesdemonstrations by m<strong>as</strong>ter confectioners. InMay, the Medieval Culture Festival bringsknight tournaments, archery competitionsand Middle Ages merriment to the Old Town.When to goWith plenty of sun-drenched, sandy beaches,Odessa is a wonderful summer city breakdestination. In the winter months, the Operaand Ballet Theatre <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the abundance ofmuseums ensures a cultural holiday whateverthe weather. The Two Days and Two nightsof New Music Festival held in late Aprilsees hundreds of musicians and composersdescend on Odessa to entertain the city withcutting edge performances.Hotel RusPrices from £380 pp twin shareSingle room supplement £81Hotel OperaPrices from £525 pp twin-shareSingle room supplement £171Hotel LondonskayaPrices from £620 pp twin-shareSingle room supplement £207You will feel <strong>as</strong> though you have steppedback into the Soviet era when you stay at thislarge throwback hotel. The service howeveris friendly and efficient, the room facilities aregood, including wifi access, and the hotel isextremely well located close to the main streetof the capital, Kreschatik, and the sights, shopsand restaurants.Located at the heart of Lviv, this <strong>Regent</strong>favourite is handily situated in the OldTown close to all the sights, and only a fewmetres from the Opera House. The roomsare t<strong>as</strong>tefully decorated and the facilities areexcellent. Head to the Panorama Restauranton the 7th floor for great views over thecentral city square.Spoil yourself with a stay at this exclusive19th century hotel, with its marble stairc<strong>as</strong>es,sparkling crystal chandeliers and stained-gl<strong>as</strong>swindows. Located on the Se<strong>as</strong>ide parkway,close to the Potemkim steps, this charminghotel is centrally located in the historic districtonly a few minutes from the Opera Houseand museums.PricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, return flightsin economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with Ukraine Internationaland all airport taxes. Contact a <strong>Regent</strong>Specialist for prices for a 4* option staying atthe boutique Hotel Impressa.PricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, return flightsin economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with Ukraine Internationaland all airport taxes. Contact a <strong>Regent</strong>Specialist for prices for a 3* option staying atthe Hotel Dnister.PricesPrices are per person and include 3 nightsaccommodation with breakf<strong>as</strong>t, return flightsin economy cl<strong>as</strong>s with Ukraine Internationaland all airport taxes. Contact a <strong>Regent</strong>Specialist for prices for an alternative 4*option staying at Hotel Mozart.97Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
MoldovaThe Inside StoryTucked between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is a hiddengem that deserves your attention. Moldovan wine is the focusof most visits but take time to explore the capital, Chisinau,and make sure to visit the Soviet throwback self-proclaimedrepublic of Transdniestr.Chisinau h<strong>as</strong>n’t quite shaken off its heritage with its 20thcentury Soviet architecture but this is tempered by treelinedboulevards, picturesque parks and a vibrant nightlife.Venture out of town to the fortress at Soroco, home to alarge gypsy population who live in lavish mansions. Join themonks at the spectacular Orheuil Vecha cave mon<strong>as</strong>tery,tour the vineyards on the Wine Route and then relax at thethermal springs of Cahul.Transdniestr is an enigma where the Soviet Union lives on.But in Tir<strong>as</strong>pol, where Socialist banners and monuments toSoviet heroes abound, smart shops and chic restaurantsare making an appearance so go soon before it loses itsquirky nature.Storyto tell -AndreaGodfreyWhy I loveMoldovaMoldova is one ofthe most hospitablecountries you’ll ever visit.Make sure to pop into myfavourite restaurant - LaTaif<strong>as</strong> in Chisinau - whereyou will be greeted atthe door by UncleNikolai with a gl<strong>as</strong>s ofwine before sittingdown in the cosymain hall to eat,while breadbakes in thestove.14th - 15th CPrincipality of Moldaviaestablished between DniesterRiver and Carpathian Mountains1812Treaty of Bucharest hands E<strong>as</strong>ternMoldova to Russia and WesternMoldova to the Ottomans1920Treaty of Paris recognisesunion of Bessarabia withRomania1940Russia annexes Bessarabiato form Moldavian SovietSocialist Republic1945Soviet Unionregains control16th - 19th CRussia and OttomanEmpire fight forMoldavian territory1918Bessarabia declaresindependence followingBolshevik revolution in Russia1924Moldovan AutonomousSoviet Socialist Republicfounded by the Soviet UnionWWIIRomanian puppetregime installed inMoldavian SSR
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in MoldovaChisinau City BreaksFrom £590 pp twin-shareTake a chance and visit thiswonderful, quirky city, more ofa sleepy provincial capital withits tree-lined boulevards andnumerous parks. Discover ablend of 19th century and Sovietarchitecture and be entertained bythe changing of the goose-steppingguards every hour in MemorialPark. The Soviet Union is aliveand well in the self-proclaimedRepublic of Transdniestr so takea trip to visit the Lenin statues andsocialist banners. Appreciate thespectacular Orheiul Vechu cavemon<strong>as</strong>tery, carved out by monks inthe 13th century, before enjoying agl<strong>as</strong>s of fine Moldovan wine.Hotel Stella De LuxHHHA small, centrally located hotel justa short walk from the main street,this is a real find where budgetconsciousclients will experience awarm welcome. The 10 rooms arebright and modern and the friendlystaff are always happy to help youget the most out of your stay inChisinau.ChildAidAs the poorest country in Europe,Moldova h<strong>as</strong> limited resourcesto care for its disabled children.British charity, ChildAid, workswith Hippocrates rehabilitationcentre in Chisinau to provide freetreatment to over 200 childrenfrom the poorest families eachyear. We can arrange visits toHippocrates where you can meetthe staff and learn more abouttheir work. Any gifts, clothes ortoys for the children are gratefullyappreciated. ChildAid is runningan appeal to raise vital funds - tomake a donation orsponsor a child ple<strong>as</strong>evisit their websitewww.childaidrr.org.ukBriceniPrulEdinetRiscaniSorocaDrochiaU K R A I N EFlorestiRezina RibnitaBaltiSingereiRautelFãlestiaMOLDOVAOrheiDubãsariCãlãr<strong>as</strong>iCHISINAUUngheny StrãseniNisporeniHincestiBîcDniesterCHISINAUTighinaTir<strong>as</strong>polSloboziaROMANIALeovaCogilnicCimisliaCanseniB<strong>as</strong>arabesacaComratIalpugCiadir-LungaCahulTaracliaUKRAINEVulcanestiMoldova - Perfect ForMoldova w<strong>as</strong> once known <strong>as</strong> the ‘vineyard of the Soviet Union’ and its proudwine producing heritage remains today; wine lovers will find countlessdelights here at sights such <strong>as</strong> the Milestii Mici winery, which bo<strong>as</strong>ts thelargest wine cellar in the world, and the many modern, family-run vineyardsthat are popping up.1989Romanian reinstated<strong>as</strong> official language1992Becomes memberof United Nations1994New constitution grantsspecial autonomy statusto Transdniestr region2006Protests against aRussian decision tosuspend imports ofMoldovan wine1980s‘Era of Openness’ resultsin resurgence of Moldovannationalism1991Gains independenceafter collapse of SovietUnion1993Moldovan leu replacesRussian rouble <strong>as</strong>currency2001Communist leaderVladimir Voroninbecomes president2012Newly electedPresident Timoftiidentifies Europeanorientation <strong>as</strong> priority99Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
UndiscoveredMoldovaGroup TourTour durationHoliday type8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedDeparture 1-8 June 2013This new itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>ed in Moldova’s quirkycapital of Chisinau and takes a series of daytrips out to give you a t<strong>as</strong>te of this tiny country.Moldova w<strong>as</strong> known <strong>as</strong> the vineyard of theformer Soviet Union and, given the qualityof Moldovan wine, it is e<strong>as</strong>y to see why.Included on this group tour is a trip to PurcariWinery for some delicious t<strong>as</strong>ting sessions, anexploration of the remarkable Orheiul Vechicave mon<strong>as</strong>tery and an intriguing excursionto the breakaway communist republic ofTransdniestr.The group size is limited to 16 participantsand will be escorted by a tour leader from<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>.Day 1 Fly to ChisinauFly to Chisinau and transfer to hotel for 7nights. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a typicalMoldovan restaurant while serenaded withtraditional musical performances. (D)Day 2 ChisinauDay 3 Causeni & Purcari WineryDrive to Causeni and visit a marvellouslypreserved church from the Tatar-Mongolianera in the 15th century. Continue to thePurcari Winery and enjoy a tour of its cellarsfollowed by a wine-t<strong>as</strong>ting session whereyou will sample varieties such <strong>as</strong> Rosu dePurcari and Negru de Purcari – known <strong>as</strong>‘the Queen’s wine’ <strong>as</strong> the 1990 vintage is aparticular favourite of Queen Elizabeth II. (B,L)Day 4 Cricova, Tipova & Orhei VechiBegin the day with an excursion to the Cricovawine cellars – one of Moldova’s most popularcellars, housing a huge collection of exclusivewines. Head to the north of the country to visitTipova, one of the oldest cave mon<strong>as</strong>teriesin the country, before continuing to theOrheiul Vechi region to explore its uniquelypicturesque 13th century cave mon<strong>as</strong>terycarved into limestone rock. Visit a museumshowing the traditional life of Moldavianfarmers in the 19th century, before returningto Chisinau. (B,L)Ceadir-Lunga, where thoroughbred Vladimir’sTrotters are raised, before returning toChisinau for some Gaugazian cuisine.Day 7 TransdniestrToday visit the capital of Transdniestr, a selfproclaimed independent republic, which h<strong>as</strong>dreams of joining Russia. Located 40 milessouthe<strong>as</strong>t of Chisinau in the Nistru Valley,Tir<strong>as</strong>pol is considered to be a living museum ofSoviet culture. With a population of 200,000the city still h<strong>as</strong> its share of Lenin statues,monuments such <strong>as</strong> a T-34 tank on a pedestaland retained names of its streets like LeninStreet. Tour the Historical Museum and visitthe KVINT brandy factory to sample somehigh quality cognac before taking a sightseeingtour of Tir<strong>as</strong>pol. Return to Chisinau in theevening. (B,L,D)Day 8 Chisinau to UKTransfer to airport for flight back to the UK. (B)100Morning walking tour of Chisinau includingthe main street of the capital – Stefan celMare, the Central Cathedral, the Parliamentbuilding and the alley of literature cl<strong>as</strong>sics inthe park of Stefan cel Mare. In the afternoon,visit the Capriana Mon<strong>as</strong>tery. Rest of day freeto explore at leisure. (B,L)Day 5 Soroco, Pokrovka & RudiIn the morning, depart for Soroco city whereyou will visit a medieval fortress which playeda key role in defending the country against theTurks, the ‘Candle of Gratitude’ monumentand a gypsy district. See the traditionalvillage of Pokrovka before a short excursionto the scenically located Rudi Nunnery andKalar<strong>as</strong>hevka Mon<strong>as</strong>tery. (B,L)Day 6 GagauziaToday, travel to the south of Moldova toexplore the Gagauzia region, inhabitedby Gagauzians and Bulgarians. Enjoy <strong>as</strong>hort sightseeing tour of the area’s capital,Gagauzia-Comrat and visit the NationalGagauz history and ethnographic museumto gain an understanding of the culture ofthis region. After lunch visit a stud farm inPrices fromPer person twin-share £1330Single room supplement £135Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withAir Moldova from London Gatwick• All airport taxes and surcharges• Accommodation in 4-star hotel withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Moldova& UkraineTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundStart in Chisinau, the capital of Moldova. Thiscity is more reminiscent of a provincial townwith its wonderful selection of museums,a fabulous opera and plenty of excellentrestaurants offering one of Moldova’s nationaltre<strong>as</strong>ures – its wine. Moving on to Ukrainewe include a stop in Odessa and Yalta beforeending your tour in cosmopolitan Kiev.This itinerary does not include anysightseeing, leaving you free to spend yourdays <strong>as</strong> you wish. However, we can highlyrecommend several tours and excursions inMoldova such <strong>as</strong> wine-t<strong>as</strong>ting in cavernousunderground cellars such <strong>as</strong> Milestii Mici orCricova. Perhaps visiting Soroco town, hometo Moldova’s Tigani population, to see themedieval fortress and meet with local gypsyfamilies in their lavish mansions.Day 4 Chisinau to OdessaTransfer by private car to hotel in Odessaand check in for 2 nights. (Ple<strong>as</strong>e note if localconditions permit, we will include a tour ofTir<strong>as</strong>pol en route). (B)Day 5 OdessaFree day in Odessa to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. In this gorgeousco<strong>as</strong>tal city, stroll along Derib<strong>as</strong>ivs’ka Streetwith its glorious buildings, monuments, shops,restaurants and bars and then descend steepPotemkin Steps. We also recommend visitingShevchenko Park and Vorontsov’s Palace forsuperb views of the sparkling Black Sea. (B)Day 6 Odessa to SimferopolDay 11 KievFree day in Kiev to explore at leisure or bookoptional excursions. Be bowled over by thecupol<strong>as</strong> of St Sophia’s Cathedral, the city’soldest church. Inside it is just breathtakingwith colourful mosaics and frescoes. Wanderthrough Maidan Nezalezhnosti, the scene ofthe Orange Revolution and allow plenty oftime for Pecherska Lavra, a unique mon<strong>as</strong>terycomplex with a system of underground cavesbuilt by monks and home to a f<strong>as</strong>cinatingmuseum. (B)Day 12 Kiev to UKFree morning before flight back to the UK. (B)Day 1 Fly to ChisinauFly to Chisinau, transfer to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2-3 ChisinauFree day in Chisinau to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. Chisinau is oftenreferred to <strong>as</strong> ‘Small Rome’ <strong>as</strong> it lies over sevenhills. However, with its tree-lined boulevards,numerous parks and languid atmosphere, thesimilarity ends there. Learn about Moldovanhistory and culture at at the National History,Pushkin and Alexei Sciusev museums, catchthe changing of the guard in Memorial Parkand sample the delicious wines of the city’smany fine restaurants. (B)Free day in Odessa before overnight train toSimferopol. (B)Day 7 YaltaArrive Simferopol and transfer to hotel inYalta for 3 nights.Day 8-9 YaltaFree days in Yalta to explore the CrimeanPeninsula or book optional excursions.The town itself is a jumble of winding littlestreets stretching around the seafront.Restaurants, c<strong>as</strong>inos, shops and bars linethe main promenade, which is crowded withstreet hawkers offering everything from palmreading to portrait photos in 18th centurycostumes. Don’t miss the famous Swallow’sNest, a decorative c<strong>as</strong>tle precariously perchedon a cliff and one of the most popular sightsin the Crimea. (B)Day 10 Simferopol to KievFly to Kiev and transfer to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Prices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1365Single room supplement £3504-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1715Single room supplement £670Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withAustrian Airlines via Vienna fromLondon Heathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Hotel accommodation <strong>as</strong> specifiedwith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All arrival transfers• Transfer to Odessa by private carincluding guided tour of Tir<strong>as</strong>pol ifpermitted• Train tickets in 1st cl<strong>as</strong>s 2-berthcompartments• One-way flight from Simferopol toKievPrices exclude• All departure transfers101Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
BelarusThe Inside StoryYou will be forgiven for thinking that the Soviet Union isalive and well in Belarus, but that is the charm of the place.Minsk may still proudly show its Communist-era buildingsand statues of Lenin but you will notice that smart shops andgood restaurants have popped up across the city.Still a largely rural economy, Belarus is a land of picturesquevillages, forests, lakes and national parks where bison, bearsand wolves can be found. Polotsk, the oldest city in thecountry, bo<strong>as</strong>ts an ancient cathedral, fortress and convent.In Nesvizh the former palace home of the Radzivills issurrounded by formal gardens and Mir is home to a fairytalec<strong>as</strong>tle.Belarus may not be the most talked about of countries butit does have its place in history. Twentieth-century artistMarc Chagall w<strong>as</strong> born in Vitebsk, Brest, on the border withPoland, enjoys a WWII hero city status, and Russia signed theagreement to bring the dissolution of the USSR in Viskouli.Storyto tell -ChristinaGibbonsWhy I loveBelarusThe history of theSoviet Union h<strong>as</strong> alwaysintrigued me andtravelling to Belarusis like stepping back intime to a bygone era.Society here is incrediblysafe and well-ordered; Ialways feel extremelywelcomed andcomfortable inBelarus.1067First mention of Minskin the Hypatian Code1307Belarus fully incorporatedinto the Grand Duchyof Lithuania1654Minsk conquered bytroops of Tsar Alexeiof Russia1863Anti-Tsarist uprisingled by K<strong>as</strong>tus Kalinouskiqu<strong>as</strong>hed1921Treaty of Rigadivides Belarusbetween Polandand Soviet Russia1129‘White Russia’ absorbedby the Grand Princesof Kiev1569Poland annexes Belarusafter the Treaty of Lublin1793Minsk annexed by Russia <strong>as</strong>a consequence of the SecondPartition of Poland1918Proclaimsindependence <strong>as</strong>the BelarussianNational Republic
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in BelarusMinsk City BreaksFrom £510pp twin-shareYou will think you have steppedback into Soviet times with Minsk’sCommunist-era blocks and statueof Lenin. Follow a route fromIndependence Square to OctoberSquare and get your fill of Stalineragrandiose gems including thePost Office, GUM DepartmentStore and Palace of Culture. Takea tour to the intriguing Stalin Line -fortifications to protect the SovietUnion from Western aggression.The city comes alive at night whereyou will be ple<strong>as</strong>antly surprisedby Minsk’s fine restaurants andbuzzing live music venues.Yubileinaya Hotel HHHIf you want to complete the Sovietera experience, the Yubileinayawill meet your requirements. Themulti-storey hotel dominates theskyline and is a popular choice withtravellers because of its centrallocation. The staff are friendly,helpful and speak good English.Rooms are adequate and cleanwith great views! There is even abowling alley and c<strong>as</strong>ino.Chernobyl HeartChernobyl Heart is a UK-b<strong>as</strong>edcharity raising funds to buyequipment for Gomel Children’sHospital in southe<strong>as</strong>t Belarus,many of whose young patientsare suffering the long-termafter-effects of the 1986 nucleardis<strong>as</strong>ter. Visit the website atwww.chernobylheart.org.uk to findout more and make your donationsecurely online.LATVIABr<strong>as</strong>lawNavapolatskPolatskWesternHaradokVitsybeskMINSKHlybokayeRUSSIAP<strong>as</strong>tavyLyepyelOrshaByahom’lLITHUANIATalachynHorkiVilyeykaShklow MstsislawSmarhonMaladzyechna BarysawMahilyow KrychawAshmyanyZ<strong>as</strong>lawyeZhodzinaKlimavichyByerazinoChavusyValozhynMINSKBijovChervenLidaDzyarzhynskAsipovichy BabruyskHrodnaStowbtsyRahachowM<strong>as</strong>tyNy<strong>as</strong>vizhBELARUS ZhlobinBaranavichyKlyetsk SlutskVawkavyskSlonimSvyetlahorskLyakhavichy SalihorskDobrushHomyelHantsavichyRechytsaIvatsevichyNemanDvinaByerezinoP’tsichDrutDnieperDnieperPruzhanyKobrynByarozaDrahichynPinskT’snaLuninyetsDavydHaradokPripetMazyrYel’skBrestStolinUKRAINEBelarus - Perfect ForFor lovers of military history and the Soviet period Belarus h<strong>as</strong> it all – visit theStalin Line Open-Air Museum, where you can experience the living conditionsof the troops inside the pill boxes and battlements, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> clamber overtanks and other military hardware from World War II and the more recentCold War. Fans of “Violin Playing Goats” will certainly want to include a visitto Vitebsk, birthplace of Surrealist artist, Marc Chagall.1945Becomes one offounding members ofthe United Nations1991Declares independence<strong>as</strong> the Soviet Unionbreaks up1998Value of Belarus roublehalved and food rationingimposed2011President Luk<strong>as</strong>henkoinaugurated for afourth term in office1941Nazi Germany invades;more than 2 millionBelarusians are killed1986Chernobyl nucleardis<strong>as</strong>ter contaminatesa quarter of the country1994Alexander Luk<strong>as</strong>henkobecomes president2001Elections criticised <strong>as</strong>undemocratic afterLuk<strong>as</strong>henko re-elected103Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Best ofWesternBelarusTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-round104This itinerary focuses on the sights and townsto the west of Minsk including Grodno, one ofthe oldest cities in Belarus and Brest, formerborder town of the Soviet Union. We alsoinclude some unique experiences on thisitinerary, such <strong>as</strong> a home-cooked dinner witha Belarusian family and a possible visit to theRailway Museum in Brest to see a locomotivenamed after Felix Dzerzhinsky, founder ofthe KGB.Day 1 Fly to MinskFly to Minsk. On arrival transfer to hotel for2 nights.Day 2 MinskMorning city tour of Minsk including the mainplaces of interest – Independence Avenue,Victory Square, Trinity Suburb and Island ofTears. Afternoon free to explore at leisure. (B)Day 3 Minsk to GrodnoTake a local bus to Grodno and check in tohotel for overnight stay. Afternoon walkingtour of Belarus. Grodno is one of the oldestcities in Belarus, founded in the 11th-centuryon the picturesque hilly banks of the NemanRiver. Visits on the tour will include St GlebChurch, better known <strong>as</strong> Kalozha Church. (B,D)Day 4 Grodno to BrestTake a local bus to Brest and check in tohotel for 2 nights. City tour including BrestFortress. Brest, situated on the confluenceof the Bug and Mukhavyets Rivers, is oneof the main commercial centres of Belarus.Founded in the early 11th century, Brest w<strong>as</strong>part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania beforebeing incorporated into the Russian Empirein 1795. (B)Day 5 Belavezhskaya PushchaNational ParkOptional morning tour to BelavezhskayaPushcha located 60 kilometres from Brest.Belavezhskaya Pushcha is a stretch of ancient,virgin forest, which in comparison with otherlowland European forests h<strong>as</strong> experiencedlittle human disturbance. The site is a habitatfor several internationally threatened speciesand the home of the l<strong>as</strong>t European bison. Inp<strong>as</strong>t centuries, the forest w<strong>as</strong> the huntingplace for nobility. Afternoon free to exploreat leisure, perhaps visit the Railway Museumwhich h<strong>as</strong> a collection of old steam engines,<strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> one named after Dzerzhinsky. (B)Day 6 Brest to PinskTake the local bus to Pinsk and check in tohotel for overnight stay. In the afternoon,enjoy a city tour including the main sites ofinterest - St Francis Catholic Church andMon<strong>as</strong>tery, 17th century Jesuit Collegium,18th century Karl Baromey Catholic Churchand striking Baroque Church of St Barbara. (B)Day 7 Pinsk to MinskTake a local bus to Minsk. Check in to hotel forovernight stay. Afternoon at leisure or bookoptional excursion to the Line of Stalin and thenewly opened museum. The Line of Stalin w<strong>as</strong>a fortification line built in 1933 to protect thewestern borders of the U.S.S.R. It stretchedfor more than 2,000 kilometres from theBarents to the Black Sea and consisted of21 fortified regions. Here, it is sometimespossible to meet and talk with soldiers whoguard this museum. (B)Day 8 Minsk to UKFree morning before transfer to airport forflight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share2 persons travelling £11153 persons travelling £9954 persons travelling £940Single room supplement £85Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withLOT Polish Airlines via Warsaw fromLondon Heathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Dinner on day 3 with local family• Return airport transfers in Minsk• Bus tickets, Minsk to Grodno, Grodnoto Brest, Brest to Pinsk and Pinsk toMinsk• City tour in Minsk, Grodno, Brest andPinsk with English-speaking guide <strong>as</strong>specified• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Belarusian Visa (see page 148)• Optional excursions (ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for more details)• Other transfers from bus/trainstations to hotelsAdditional notes• Ple<strong>as</strong>e allow at le<strong>as</strong>t a monthfor visa processingCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
A journeyfromBelarus toKaliningradTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality13 daysIndividual TourExplore at LeisureYear-roundThis individual itinerary starts in Minsk whereyou will feel <strong>as</strong> if you have stepped back intime to the Soviet days, especially on seeingthe imposing statue of Lenin in IndependenceSquare. But first impressions can be deceptive,look a little further and you will discover firstraterestaurants and buzzing live music venues.Take the train to the wonderful Baroque cityof Vilnius, before continuing to Klaipeda andonwards to Nida on the stunning CuronianSpit. The quaint fishing village of Nida is anideal b<strong>as</strong>e from which to explore places furtherafield such <strong>as</strong> Thom<strong>as</strong> Mann’s summer houseand the eerie ‘Hill of Witches’.Finish in Kaliningrad, once a wealthy Germanport and university town called Königsbergbut now changed beyond recognition underSoviet control. Amid the austere Sovietarchitecture, there are still suggestions ofa more creative German p<strong>as</strong>t; picturesqueKönigsberg buildings, such <strong>as</strong> the cathedral,which become even more appealing amid <strong>as</strong>ea of grey concrete.This itinerary is b<strong>as</strong>ed on 3-star central hotelswith bus and train tickets, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> a privatetransfer from Lithuania to Kaliningrad. We canof course tailor-make this tour to suit you if youwould prefer to stay longer in any one place orupgrade your hotels to 4/5-star.Day 1 Fly to MinskFly to Minsk and transfer to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2-3 MinskFree days in Minsk to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. We recommendfollowing a route from Independence Squareto October Square and getting your fill ofStalin-era grandiose gems including the PostOffice, GUM Department Store and Palaceof Culture. (B)Day 4 Minsk to VilniusTake train from Minsk to Vilnius. There areseveral departures daily and the journey takesaround 4½ hours. Arrive Vilnius and check intohotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 5 VilniusFree day in Vilnius to explore at leisure orbook optional excursions. Discover unspoiledwinding streets and a church on every cornerin the picturesque Baroque Old Town. Takethe funicular from the Lower to the HigherC<strong>as</strong>tle for views across the rooftops. To learnmore of the country’s recent history, pay avisit to the Museum of Genocide Victims inthe former KGB headquarters. (B)Day 6 Vilnius to KlaipedaTake train from Vilnius to Klaipeda. Thereare several departures a day and the journeytakes around 4½ hours. Check into hotel for2 nights. (B)Day 7 KlaipedaFree day in Klaipeda to explore at leisure.There’ll be plenty to keep you occupiedhere; take a stroll around the charming OldTown with its slightly hodgepodge attemptsof reconstruction following World War II,visit one of many interesting museums andgalleries including the excellent Martyn<strong>as</strong>Mazvyd<strong>as</strong> Sculpture Park, or stay out late andsample the vibrant nightlife. (B)Day 8 Klaipeda To NidaTake bus to Nida. There are several departuresa day and the journey takes around 1½ hours.Check into hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 9 NidaFree day in Nida to explore at leisure. Thisancient fishing town is brimming with quaint,timber houses painted in a variety of brightcolours and bo<strong>as</strong>ts a lovely, cosmopolitanbeach perfect for some relaxing bathing. (B)Day 10 Nida to KaliningradPrivate transfer from Nida to Kaliningrad.Check into hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 11-12 KaliningradFree days in Kaliningrad to explore at leisureor book optional excursions. Meander throughthe delightful tree-lined former Germanneighbourhoods and discover the remainsof the old city gates, in particular the DohnaTower which contains the Amber Museum.Make time to visit the World Ocean Museum,on a former Soviet research vessel, and the oldFoxtrot-cl<strong>as</strong>s Soviet submarine. (B)Day 13 Kaliningrad to UKTransfer to airport for flight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1095Single room supplement £299Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withAustrian Airlines and SAS via Vienna/Copenhagen from London Heathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Arrival transfer in Minsk• Train tickets, Minsk to Vilnius, Vilniusto Klaipeda• Bus tickets, Klaipeda to Nida• Private transfer from Nida toKaliningrad• Departure transfer in KaliningradPrices exclude• Belarusian and Russian Visa(see page 148)105Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cauc<strong>as</strong>usThe Inside StoryThe three countries of the Cauc<strong>as</strong>us occupy a stunning stripof mountainous land wedged between the Black and C<strong>as</strong>pianSe<strong>as</strong>. Each h<strong>as</strong> a border with the other two, yet they couldhardly be more different. Three unrelated languages arespoken here, and two different religions hold sway. However,the Muslims of Azerbaijan and the Christians of Armeniaand Georgia all share a love of life and a strong culture ofhospitality, home and hearth.Armenia is home to a cosmopolitan capital city, windsweptmountains and timeless villages occupied by shepherds.Azerbaijan is a country of contr<strong>as</strong>ts from oil-boom citiesand Soviet architecture to mountain fortresses hidden indense forest.Georgia welcomes visitors with open arms, all the way fromthe cobbled streets of Tbilisi to the p<strong>as</strong>toral settlements highin the mountains.Storyto tell -CarlMeadowsWhy I lovethe Cauc<strong>as</strong>usThe food in theCauc<strong>as</strong>us is justfant<strong>as</strong>tic, from cheesykhachapuri bread inGeorgia to Armenianbarbecued meat, andif you’re feeling reallyopulent, Azerbaijan’sexquisite black caviar.For such a compactarea, the cuisine– not to mentionthe culture andarchitecture– is amazinglydiverse.783 BCArmenia’s capital –Yerevan – foundedby King Argishti I30Romans conquerthe Armenian Empire730Khazar commanderBarjik conquersAzerbaijan and Armenia1220The Mongols invadethe Cauc<strong>as</strong>us16th COttoman andPersian Empirestake over most ofthe Cauc<strong>as</strong>us region550 BCZoro<strong>as</strong>trianism spreadsthrough Azerbaijan301Armenia first sovereignnation to adopt Christianity<strong>as</strong> state religion11th CDavid IV initiates Georgia’sgolden age, greatlyexpanding cultural andpolitical influence1271Marco Polo travelsthrough theCauc<strong>as</strong>us1801Russia annexese<strong>as</strong>tern Georgiafollowed by thewest 9 years later
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in the Cauc<strong>as</strong>us RepublicsBaku City Breaks4 days from £750pp twin-shareFeel like a pioneer <strong>as</strong> you exploreone of the le<strong>as</strong>t visited formerSoviet republics - Azerbaijan. Thecontr<strong>as</strong>t between cosmopolitanBaku and the rest of the countryis startling; Baku is an oil-boomcity where sleek cars glide p<strong>as</strong>tgleaming skyscrapers, mansionsbuilt by oil magnates, Soviet-eraarchitecture and the beautifullypreserved walled old city. Here,discover ancient buildings huddledover narrow alleyways bustlingwith activity and life. Glimmeringlandmarks such <strong>as</strong> the iconic QizQal<strong>as</strong>i tower and the Palace ofthe Shirvanshahs brilliantly evokeAzerbaijan’s dyn<strong>as</strong>tic p<strong>as</strong>t.Tbilisi City Breaks4 days from £745pp twin-shareGeorgia’s picturesque, tree-shadedcapital is truly a city of contr<strong>as</strong>ts.Ramble through the Old Town withits profusion of houses rubbingshoulders, their plant-drapedbalconies almost touching overthe narrow cobbled streets, beforediscovering elegant RustaveliAvenue lined with shops, cafesand museums. Along the gorge ofthe Mtkvari River, buildings, bathedin summer-long sunshine, clingprecariously to the high red cliffs.Complete your busy day by joiningthe locals in a relaxing sulphur bath,indulging in a gl<strong>as</strong>s of Georgianwine or taking in a performance atthe Pali<strong>as</strong>hvili Opera House.Yerevan City Breaks4 days from £790pp twin-shareStaying in Yerevan is an idealintroduction to the rich cultureand history of Armenia. Day ornight, the locals love to promenade,so join in <strong>as</strong> this is an e<strong>as</strong>y cityto explore on foot. The heart ofYerevan is a blend of architecturalstyles including Belle Epoque, ArtDeco and Soviet monstrosities.Enjoy city views from the b<strong>as</strong>e ofthe Mother Armenia statue andclimb the steep white Art Decostairc<strong>as</strong>e in Sculpture Park. Doyour shopping in Northern Avenuewhich connects Soviet-era RepublicSquare with Opera, the two centralhubs of the city.GagraSokhumiBlackSeaZugdidiKhobiP’o’tiBat’umiTURKEYARMENIARUSSIAOni P’<strong>as</strong>anauriT’elaviQuba DavaçiK’ut’aisiGoriZaqatalaBorjomiT’BILISISumqayitGEORGIAMingäçeevirSäkiSamaxiKura Su AnbariBAKIAkhalts’ikheToyuz MingäçevirAgsuVanadzorGäncäQazimämmädÄlätSpitakGyumriSevanLichYEREVANSisianAZERBAIJANAZERBAIJANGorisXankändiC<strong>as</strong>pianSeaSalyanLänkäränAstaraIRANCauc<strong>as</strong>us - Perfect ForThe people of the Cauc<strong>as</strong>us have a real lust for life, and a visit to the regionis perfect for those looking for a warm welcome and delicious cuisine. TheCauc<strong>as</strong>us h<strong>as</strong> been a cultural crossroads for millennia, and various nations,religions and empires have influenced the region to such an extent that thosewith an interest in religious sites and history will be in their element.1849World’s first oil well isdrilled in Azerbaijan justsouth of Baku1918Georgia declaresindependence fromthe Ottomans1920Armenia invadedby Bolshevik Russiaand Turkey1990Dozens die ininterethnicviolence in Baku2011Azerbaijan winsthe EurovisionSong Contest1917Hundreds of thousandsof Armenians m<strong>as</strong>sacredor deported to Syria bythe Ottomans1920Azerbaijan declaresindependence fromRussia1936Georgia becomesfull republic ofSoviet Union1992Armenia joins theUnited Nations107Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
From theC<strong>as</strong>pian tothe Black SeaGroup TourTour durationHoliday type16 daysGroup TourFully GuidedDeparture 8-23 Sep 2013108This f<strong>as</strong>cinating tour travels from Baku on theC<strong>as</strong>pian Sea, through Northern Azerbaijan, tobalmy Batumi on the Black Sea.The group size is limited to 14 participants andwill be escorted by a local English-speakingtour leader.Day 1 Fly To BakuFly to Baku, transfer to Empire Hotel for 3 nights.Day 2 BakuMorning walking tour of the highlights ofBaku’s Old Town. In the afternoon drive tothe Absheron Peninsula to visit the AsteshgahZoro<strong>as</strong>trian Fire Temple, Mardakan Fortressand the mosque at Amirjan. Visit the stunningYanardagh Fire Mountain en route to Baku. (B,L)Day 3 GobustanDrive to Gobustan, a national historicallandmark, which aims to preserve the ancientcarvings, relics, mud volcanoes and g<strong>as</strong>-stonesin the region. Visit Gobustan Museum beforereturning to Baku for afternoon at leisure. (B,L)Day 4 Baku to ShekiDrive northwest to Sheki via Shamahkiand Lahij, then visit Gabala, the old capitalof ancient Cauc<strong>as</strong>ian Albania. Check in toOlympic Hotel for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 5 ShekiFull day exploring Sheki including a visit to theOriental Bazaar and a local bakery and stopat the village of Kish. (B,L,D)Day 6 Sheki to TelaviDepart for the Georgian border at Lagodekhi.Afternoon visit to the Royal Town of Signagi,Bodbe Nunnery, Gremi ArchitecturalComplex and Necresi Mon<strong>as</strong>tery. Continueto Telavi and check in to Hotel Rcheuli Maranifor overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 7 Telavi to TbilisiVisit the 11th century Alaverdi Cathedral andThe Tsinandali Family Estate, known for itsproduction of fine wines. Continue to Tbilisi andcheck in to Hotel Sharden for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 8 TbilisiMorning sightseeing tour of Tbilisi includingthe Sioni Cathedral, Rustaveli Avenue.Afternoon free in Tbilisi to explore at leisure. (B)Day 9 Tbilisi to KutaisiDrive west to Georgia’s second capital,Kutaisi, stopping at The Stalin Museum inGori, (birthplace of Stalin). Visit the cave townof Uplitsikhe before continuing on to Kutaisifor overnight stay in guesthouse. (B,L,D)Day 10 Kutaisi to MestiaVisit the pride of Kutaisi – the ruined church ofKing Bagrat and the Gelati Mon<strong>as</strong>tery. Driveto Zugdidi, near the de facto Abkhazian border,before <strong>as</strong>cending the Enguri Gorge to theremote Svaneti region. Arrive in Mestia andcheck in to Hotel Svaneti for 3 nights. (B,L,D)Day 11 MestiaMorning tour of Mestia including the MestiaEthnographical Museum, a Svan dwellingtower and Lagami Church. Free afternoonto explore at leisure. (B,L,D)Day 12 UshguliDrive further up the valley to Ushguli, whichdates back more than 2,000 years and islocated at the feet of Shkhara, one of thehighest Cauc<strong>as</strong>ian summits. Enjoy a picniclunch in this medieval pristine landscape. (B,L,D)Day 13 Mestia to BatumiDrive down to the Black Sea and the co<strong>as</strong>talresort of Batumi and check in to Hotel VillaRcheuli for 2 nights before a late afternoonwalking tour of the Old Town. (B,L,D)Day 14 BatumiHalf day tour of Batumi including BatumiAgricultural Market, Gonio Fortress and TheBotanical Garden. Free afternoon in Batumito explore at leisure. (B,L,D)Day 15 Batumi to TbilisiDrive back to Tbilisi via Mtskheta, the 4thcenturycapital, which is dominated by Georgia’sfirst Christian cathedral – Svetitskhoveli,reputedly built on a grave containing a pieceof Christ’s robe. Visit Jvari Mon<strong>as</strong>tery forspectacular views. On arrival in Tbilisi checkin to Hotel Shardan for overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 16 Tbilisi to UKMorning transfer to airport for flight backto the UK. (B)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement8-23 Sep £2450 £399Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from Heathrow• All airport taxes and surcharges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Azeri Visa (see page 148)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicGeorgiaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality9 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedMay-OctWith its legendary hospitality, delicious foodand abundance of local wines, Georgia is oneof the most welcoming countries you will evervisit. This itinerary is an absolute must forfirst-time visitors, <strong>as</strong> not only will you seediverse landscapes (including the majesticmountain scenery of the Cauc<strong>as</strong>us and thegolden vineyards of the Kakheti region),but you will also journey up the GeorgianMilitary Highway <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> visiting Gori andits startlingly flattering museum devoted toits famous son – Stalin.We include an overnight at the Ab<strong>as</strong>tumaniObservatory where you can view the nightsky through its several large telescopes.On this tour you will have your own privatecar with driver and English-speaking guideand we also include many waist-expandingGeorgian meals.Day 1 Fly to TbilisiFly to Tbilisi.Day 2 TbilisiArrive Tbilisi, transfer to hotel for overnightstay. After a brief rest you will start with a fullday tour of Tbilisi. (B,L,D)Day 3 Mtskheta & GudauriExcursion to Mtskheta and head up theGeorgian Military Highway to Gudauri.En route visit Jvari Church, Svetitskhoveli,Samtavro and Kazbegi. Overnight in hotel inGudauri. (B,L,D)Day 4 Gori & Ab<strong>as</strong>tumaniDrive to Gori, birthplace of Stalin and home tothe Joseph Stalin Museum. Included is a visitto the cave town of Uplistsikhe and a stop inBorjomi before overnight at the Ab<strong>as</strong>tumaniObservatory. After dinner there will be anexcursion to the observatory museum and achance to see the sky at night. (B,L,D)Day 5 Kutaisi via VardziaHead south towards the Turkish border toVardzia, a spectacular cave town built into theErusheli Mountain by Queen Tamar in 1185.Final destination is Kutaisi, ancient capital ofColchis. Overnight stay in guesthouse. (B,L,D)Day 6 Kutaisi to TbilisiMorning excursion of Kutaisi’s most famoussights including Bagrati Temple and GelatiMon<strong>as</strong>tery. Either continue to Svaneti regionor return to Tbilisi. En route back to Tbilisi,visit Montsameta Mon<strong>as</strong>tery and UbisiChurch. Arrive Tbilisi and transfer to hotelfor overnight stay. (B,L)Day 7 Tbilisi to Kakheti RegionFrom Tbilisi visit David Gareja Mon<strong>as</strong>teryComplex and the Larva Mon<strong>as</strong>tery. Continueto Telavi, through the vineyards of Kakheti.Overnight stay in guesthouse. (B,L,D)Day 8 Kakheti Region to TbilisiToday is spent exploring the Kakheti regionincluding Tsinandali, estate of the 19thcenturypoet and Kakhetian Prince AlexanderChavchavadze, also known for its productionof some fine wines. A stop is made at AlaverdiCathedral, Gremi complex and the Cathedralof Ninotsminda. Return to Tbilisi and transferto hotel for overnight stay. (B,L)Day 9 Tbilisi to UKMorning transfer to airport for flight back tothe UK. (B,L,D)Svaneti add-onIf you want to complete your stay in Georgia,then consider a side-trip to Svaneti, knownfor its rugged mountains, m<strong>as</strong>sive ancientwatchtowers and the Svans - proud mountainpeople. Svaneti represents the heart ofGeorgian orthodox culture and traditionsand is a remote area. You will travel by 4WDover rugged terrain and enjoy mountain treksand stunning vist<strong>as</strong>.This tour starts on day 6 and on day 9 you willrejoin the Cl<strong>as</strong>sic Georgia Tour in Tbilisi andcontinue the itinerary through the KakhetiRegion, ending the tour in Tbilisi on day 12.Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for details.Per person twin-share £450Single room supplement £105Prices include accommodation in guesthouseson full board b<strong>as</strong>is, all transfers andtransportation throughout, sightseeing withEnglish-speaking guide, entrance fees onsightseeing tours.Prices fromPer person twin-share2-3 persons travelling £18704-5 persons travelling £1705Single room supplement £190Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withBritish Airways direct from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels andguesthouses with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Alcohol with meals109Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicArmeniaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality9 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedApr-Oct110Armenia is such a beautiful country withstunning, contr<strong>as</strong>ting landscapes. In theNorth, stone churches lie hidden in luxuriantverdant gorges, whilst in the South, themon<strong>as</strong>teries perch on red, craggy mountains.Picnic lunches can be taken overlooking theever-changing colours of Lake Sevan – oneof the largest high-altitude lakes in the world.Further south from the lake, near Noratus,there is a field of Khachkars (translated <strong>as</strong>cross-stone, carved memorial stones). Winet<strong>as</strong>tingat Areni Winery in Vayots Dzor andbrandy-t<strong>as</strong>ting at Yerevan’s Brandy Factoryare part of the many highlights of a visit toArmenia.This is the ideal itinerary for first time visitorsto Armenia and offers extensive sightseeingwith private guide and car.Day 1 Fly to YerevanFly to Yerevan, transfer to Hotel Aviatransfor 3 nights.Day 2 YerevanMorning sightseeing tour of Yerevan includingthe Genocide Memorial and Museum. Freeafternoon to explore at leisure. (B)Day 3 Etchmiadzin & ZvarnotsExcursion to Etchmiadzin, St. Hripsime andZvarnots. Starting in Etchmiadzin, the religiouscentre of Armenia, visit the cathedral and theadjacent museum, which houses all mannerof manuscripts, religious gifts and relics. Alsovisit the Church of the Holy Virgin Hripsime,built in the 7th century, with excellent views ofboth Mount Ararat and Mount Aragats. (B,L,D)Day 4 Yerevan to SisianDrive south-e<strong>as</strong>t to Sisian via Khor Virapand Noravank. The view of Khor Virap isspectacular set against the backdrop of MountArarat. Continue to Noravank, perchedprecariously in its dramatic gorge setting.A visit is also included to the mountain-topmon<strong>as</strong>tery of Tatev. Overnight stay in HotelLalamar. (B,L,D)Day 5 Sisian to Dilijan via Lake SevanMorning visit to Karahunge, considered to beArmenia’s Stonehenge. Drive to Lake Sevanthrough the mountainous are<strong>as</strong> of VayotsDzor province and via the Selim P<strong>as</strong>s - a p<strong>as</strong>sused since the days of the Silk Road. Here,explore the 14th-century Selim Caravanserai.You will also stop at Noraduz, ancientcemetery of Khachkars (stone crosses). Checkin to Hotel Dilijan for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 6 DilijanMorning tour of Dilijan before visiting theHaghartsin Mon<strong>as</strong>tery located to thenorthwest of the town. The mon<strong>as</strong>tery maybe described <strong>as</strong> a school of architecture - ittook about 300 years to build it with manygenerations of architects adding on newstructures <strong>as</strong> they went. Also visit GoshavankMon<strong>as</strong>tery where you will see one of thefinest examples of Armenian cross-stones.After lunch in a private house there will bean opportunity to visit a ceramics workshopand woodcarver’s studio. (B,L,D)Day 7 Lori ProvinceToday visit the Lori Province, an area of forestcoveredmountains, gorges and rivers. Here,visit Odzun church from the 6th century andcontinue to Sanahin and Hagphat (UNESCOHeritage sites). After lunch at a localrestaurant, where you will try the traditionalArmenian barbecue, transfer back to Yerevanfor 2 nights. (B,L)Day 8 Garni & GeghardExcursion to the Garni Pagan Temple andGeghard Mon<strong>as</strong>tery. Garni Temple, datingfrom the 1st century AD, w<strong>as</strong> once a buildingin a great complex of palaces and temples,serving <strong>as</strong> a summer residence for theArmenian Kings of the day. Enjoy a ple<strong>as</strong>antwalk to the Geghard Cave Mon<strong>as</strong>tery, cut intothe side of the cliff and surrounded by ancientgravestones. Afternoon visit the MatenadaranMuseum. (B,L)Day 9 Yerevan to UKMorning transfer to airport for flight to theUK. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share2 persons travelling £17253 persons travelling £15304 persons travelling £1445Single room supplement £190Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>swith Austrian Airlines from LondonHeathrow via Vienna• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels andguesthouses with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Armenian Visa (see page 148)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cheese andWine Tourof GeorgiaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality9 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedApr-OctAccording to Georgian legend, when Godw<strong>as</strong> distributing land among the peoples ofthe world, the Georgians were so busy eatingand drinking that they lost their place in thequeue and there w<strong>as</strong> no land left. Howeverwhen they invited God to join the party, heenjoyed himself so immensely that he gavethem all the prime plots of land he had beensaving for himself.On this tour you will not only see some of themain sights but t<strong>as</strong>te a v<strong>as</strong>t number of deliciousfoods in restaurants, private homes and alfresco picnics. Our favourite dishes are pkhali(young spinach leaves, pounded together withspices), satsivi (a delicious rich walnut sauceflavoured with herbs and garlic) and khachapuri(waist-expanding layers of flat bread alternatedwith melted cheese). There will also be plentyof opportunities to sample local wines. Thereare between 500 and 1,000 grape varieties inGeorgia and almost every village produces itsown wine. Gaumarjos! (Cheers!).Day 1 Fly to TbilisiOvernight flight to Tbilisi.Day 2 TbilisiArrive in Tbilisi and transfer to hotel forovernight stay. After a brief rest, start with atour of Georgia’s capital, including NarikalaFortress, Church of the Virgin, the sulphurbaths and a bakery. (B,L,D)Day 3 Tbilisi - Telaviwine pitchers buried under the ground. Enjoylunch and a wine t<strong>as</strong>ting before continuingto Telavi to indulge in a wine t<strong>as</strong>ting at GWSvinery. In the evening at a local guesthouset<strong>as</strong>te cheese from the Tusheti region. Dinnerand overnight at a local guesthouse. (B,L,D)Day 4 Telavi - TbilisiDiscover the wine history of Telavi, visitingvineyards, wine cellars and Nadkora – acemetery of wine pitchers from the prehistoricperiod. Visit the Tsinandali family estate andenjoy a wine t<strong>as</strong>ting before returning to Tbilisi.On arrival, check in for overnight. (B,L)Day 5 Tbilisi - AspindzaThe first stop of the day is sacred Mtskheta,the ancient capital of e<strong>as</strong>tern Georgia at thesouthern end of the Georgian Military highway.Georgia’s conversion to Christianity occurredhere in 337 AD and it is considered one ofGeorgia’s most important religious centres.Visit the UNESCO sites of Church of Jvariperched on a cliff overlooking the city andSveti-Tskhoveli Cathedral. Near Gori, visitUplistsikhe a cave town dating back to the 1stmillennium BC. Among the dwelling complexes,theatres, pagan temples and other ruins ofpublic buildings, discover the ancient winepresses cut in stone. In the evening arrive in theSamtskhe-Javakheti region. Wine originatedfrom here, but because of climate change onlya few vineyards are left. Here at a family house,enjoy t<strong>as</strong>ting local Meskh cheese. Dinner andovernight at a local family guesthouse. (B,L,D)Day 7 Kutaisi - BatumiVisit Gelati academy complex, a UNESCO site,before driving to Samegrelo region known forits cheese “Sulguni”. At a local family house seehow this cheese is made and enjoy a t<strong>as</strong>ting.Continue to Batumi on the Black Sea co<strong>as</strong>tand enjoy a short walking tour of the Old Townin the evening, before dinner with traditionalAjara dishes. Overnight in Batumi. (B,L,D)Day 8 Batumi - TbilisiDrive to Tbilisi via Sachkhere. En routevisit Mgvimevi Mon<strong>as</strong>tery Complex whichcomprises two b<strong>as</strong>ilic<strong>as</strong>, a hall church cut intothe rock and a bell tower. In the village ofKoreti, be a guest of the Sharvadzeebi familyand visit their wine cellars. On arrival in Tbilisi,check in for overnight. (B,L,D)Day 9 Tbilisi to UKTransfer to airport for flight to the UK. (B,L)Prices fromPer person twin-share £2030Single room supplement £245Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>swith British Airways from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• All transfers and transportation• Accommodation in 3-star hotels andguesthouses• Full board except for 2 dinners in Tbilisi• Wine-t<strong>as</strong>ting <strong>as</strong> specified• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• All entrance fees on sightseeing toursDrive along the “Wine Route” p<strong>as</strong>sing through Day 6 Aspinsza – Kutaisivineyards and wine-producing villages inKakheti region, which is synonymous with Drive to Varzia cave town. En route make aGeorgian wine. First, explore Signagi Royal short stop to visit Tsunda b<strong>as</strong>ilica. Around theTown, a stop on the Silk Road surrounded by church the ancient terraces for vineyards candefensive walls with 23 towers. Proceed to still seen. Then proceed to Kutaisi and enjoyGurjaani to visit a small, local family-owned wine an evening walking tour of the Old Town. Atcellar, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> an ancient Marani - a special a local guesthouse, t<strong>as</strong>te Imereti cheese, a Prices exclude111house for storing wine. In this cellar, wine is specialty of the region. Dinner and overnight • 2 mealsmade according to Georgian traditions in huge at a local guesthouse. (B,L,D)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Central AsiaThe Inside StoryThe dazzling diversity of Central Asia h<strong>as</strong> drawn travellersfor centuries. The colourful cohabitation of Asian andRussian, Islamic and communist and the eclectic mixof ancient and modern, create the drama of life in thisextraordinary region today.Trace the ghosts of the old Silk Road, stand in the shadowof grand monuments built by eccentric autocrats, uncoverage-old relics and natural phenomena, and enjoy the warmhospitality of convivial locals at every turn. Explore pristinewilderness, where nature reserves abound with uniquewildlife and flaming g<strong>as</strong> craters illuminate the desert atnight.For a true cultural experience, plan your Central Asia tripto coincide with Navruz on March 21st, where singing,dancing, poetry, food and wrestling are found in abundancein celebration of Spring Fe<strong>as</strong>t and the New Year.We can tailor-make itineraries to all five of the republics– Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan andUzbekistan – that make up Central Asia.Storyto tell -CarlMeadowsWhy I loveCentral AsiaTurkmenistan may scorelow on the DemocracyIndex (two places aboveNorth Korea) but itcomes high on my list offavourite places to visit.From meeting hospitablelocals at the colourfulmarkets, where buying apiece of fruit can turninto an hour’s chat, tocamping in the desertby the glowingDarvaza g<strong>as</strong> crater,this country servesup countless uniqueexperiences.328 BCAlexander the Great invadesCentral Asia and takesSamarkand in Uzbekistan114 BCChinese Han Dyn<strong>as</strong>tyextends Silk Roadthrough Central Asiac. 700Islam introducedto the regionc. 1300Kyrgyz people migratefrom Siberia to TienShan Mountains1526Babur takes Kandaharand Delhi and establishesMoghul Empire in India200 BCThe Huns emerge on theKazakh-China border50-330 ADKushan Empireenvelopes Tajikistan1227Mongols, led byGenghis Khan,conquer Central Asia1497Fergana ruler, Babur,captures Samarkandat age 141715Peter the Greatleads first Russianexpedition toKazakh Steppes
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in Central AsiaT<strong>as</strong>hkent City Breaks3 nights from £635pp twin-shareFor a more unusual city break,discover Uzbekistan’s capital andbe rewarded with a unique glimpseinto the lost world of the orient inone of the oldest cities in the world.Rebuilding h<strong>as</strong> left little of theancient city, but the small Old Town,with its narrow winding alleys,offers an insight into T<strong>as</strong>hkent’sSilk Road history. Look p<strong>as</strong>t theSoviet-era architecture and youwill discover ancient mausoleumsand imposing madr<strong>as</strong>sahs. Climbup to the observation deck of theTV tower and discover a city thatis remarkably green and attractive.Markaziy Hotel HHHHThis modern high-rise hotel ispopular because of its internationalstandards, helpful staff and greatviews across the city. The roomsare large and stylish and the hotelis located in downtown T<strong>as</strong>hkent,close to the Amir Temur Square,and within walking distance of manyof the major attractions. Take <strong>as</strong>wim in one of the mirrored poolsor relax with a Turkish Bath after abusy day sightseeing.British Travel AwardsWe are very proud to have beenvoted BEST SMALL TOUROPER ATOR TO EAST ANDCENTRAL ASIA at the 2012British Travel Awards. Morethan one million votes were c<strong>as</strong>tby consumers to determine thewinners of the coveted awards,and we’re delighted to have beenrecognised by holiday-makers whovoted our trips the best of the best.PetropavlovskKostanayKokshetauShchuchinskErtisDenisovkaAuliyekol’Yesil'PavlodarAstanaEkib<strong>as</strong>tuzUral’skKhromtauArkalykSemipalatinskAqtobeTemirtauKarabutakUst’-KamenogorskSaranKandyag<strong>as</strong>hKaraganda GeorgiyevkaShakhtinskKaynarZyryanovskIrgizC<strong>as</strong>pianSagizEmbaKazakhskiyDepressionKAZAKHSTANShalkarMelkosopochnikAyagozMakatZhezkazganAtyrauKul'sary Aral’skT<strong>as</strong>keskenKaratonAyteke BiLepsiKazalinskOzero. Balkh<strong>as</strong>hDzhusalyBeyneu AralKyzylordaTaldyqorganSeaKhantauChiiliOltinko’lMerkeC H I N AC<strong>as</strong>pian Ustyurt UZBEKISTANTarazBishkekNarynkolSeaPlateauNukusKarakolShymkentD<strong>as</strong>oguz UrganchKYRGYZSTANXivaT<strong>as</strong>hkentGaragumNamanganBirataQo’qon Farg’onaAZERBAIJANTurkmenb<strong>as</strong>yJizzaxKhujandTURKMENISTANSamarqandAlai RangeTürkmenabatDushanbeQarshiAsgabatMary TAJIKISTANTejenR U S S I AIrtyshKokshaal-TauR U S S I AIRANAFGHANISTANCentral Asia - Perfect ForCentral Asia is perfect for those wanting an adventure into the historicalSilk Road lands, where Europe meets Asia. An immense region with diverselandscapes and peoples, Central Asia offers rich culture and adventure in adose <strong>as</strong> light or heavy <strong>as</strong> one is looking for.1784-1804Uzbek khanates ofBukhara, Kokand andKhiva established1916B<strong>as</strong>machi Revoltopposing Russian rulegrips Central Asia1991Central Asian republicsgain independencefollowing collapse ofSoviet Union2002Eccentric Turkmenistan PresidentNiyazov renames the months ofthe year after himself, his motherand his book, the Ruhnama2010Kazakhstan PresidentNazarbayev is grantedspecial powers and given thetitle ‘leader of the nation’1865-1884Russia captures and<strong>as</strong>sumes control overmost of Central Asia1924-27Stalin draws theborders of Uzbekistan,Kyrgyzstan andTurkmenistan1996Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan andKyrgyzstan agree to create <strong>as</strong>ingle economic market2004President Niyazov ordersthe construction of agiant ice palace in thedesert113Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicUzbekistanGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeDeparture11 daysGroup TourFully Guided10-20 SepUzbekistan’s p<strong>as</strong>t calls out to you from citiessuch <strong>as</strong> Samarkand, shimmering under thehot Asian sun, with the gold and turquoiseof its intricate tile work. Across the desert toBukhara, explore long disused mosques andmadr<strong>as</strong>sahs, which once again are beginningto buzz with worship and learning. Uzbekistan,<strong>as</strong> a tourist destination, is in its infancy but forthe adventurous and well-travelled, it holdsthe best architectural gems of Central Asi<strong>as</strong>uch <strong>as</strong> Khiva, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the often overlookedcapital of T<strong>as</strong>hkent.The group size will be limited to 14 personsand will be escorted by an English-speakinglocal tour leader.Day 1 Fly to T<strong>as</strong>hkentFly to T<strong>as</strong>hkent.Day 2 T<strong>as</strong>hkentArrive T<strong>as</strong>hkent and transfer to hotel forovernight stay. Afternoon sightseeing tourof T<strong>as</strong>hkent, taking in the Old City, Brak-Khan Madr<strong>as</strong>sah, Yunus-Khan mausoleum,Museum of Applied Art, IndependenceSquare, Friendship People’s Square and theNational Theatre of Opera and Ballet. (B,L)Day 3 T<strong>as</strong>hkent to SamarkandMorning drive to Samarkand (takes around5 hours) and transfer to hotel for 2 nights.Enjoy an afternoon tour of the city, visiting theGuri-Emir Mausoleum, Rukhabad Necropolisand the Registan Complex. (B,L)Day 4 SamarkandContinue tour of Samarkand, visitingthe Ulugbek Observatory, Bibi-KhanumCathedral Mosque, Shakhi Zinda Mausoleumand the bazaar. Rest of day free to explore atleisure. (B,L)Day 5 Samarkand to BukharaDepart from Samarkand to Bukhara (takesaround 5 hours). Arrive Bukhara, transfer tohotel for 3 nights. (B,L)Day 6 BukharaFull day tour of Bukhara including the mainhighlights: Samanids Mausoleum; Ch<strong>as</strong>hmaAyub Mazar; Poi-Kalan complex; UlugbekMadr<strong>as</strong>sah; Lyabi-Hauz complex; Bolo KhauzMosque and the Ark Citadel. (B,L)Day 7 BukharaContinue sightseeing tour of Bukhara. VisitSitorai Mokhi Khosa, the Summer Palace ofBukharan Emirs, Bolo Khauz Mosque andthe Bakhoutdin Nakshbandy Complex andMausoleum. (B,L)Day 8 Bukhara to UrgenchDepart from Bukhara to Urgench (takesaround 7 hours). En route stop on the banks ofthe Amu Darya River, which hugs the Uzbek-Turkmen border. Arrive Urgench, transfer tohotel for 2 nights. (B,L)Day 9 KhivaDay excursion to Khiva with sightseeing toinclude Ichan-Kala, Mohammed-Amin KhanMadr<strong>as</strong>sah, Kunya Ark, Paklavan Mahmudcomplex, Islam Khoja Madr<strong>as</strong>sah and theJumma Mosque. (B,L)Day 10 Urgench to T<strong>as</strong>hkentTransfer to Urgench Airport for flight backto T<strong>as</strong>hkent. On arrival, transfer to hotel forovernight stay. (B,L)Day 11 T<strong>as</strong>hkent to UKTransfer to airport for flight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement10-20 Sep £1595 £190Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withUzbekistan Airlines from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in 3-star hotels onhalf board b<strong>as</strong>is (breakf<strong>as</strong>t and lunch)• All transfers and transportationthroughout• One-way flight in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s fromUrgench to T<strong>as</strong>hkent• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Uzbek Visa (see page 148)114Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicTurkmenistanGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeDeparture11 daysGroup TourFully Guided14-24 SepThis small group tour is the perfectintroduction to Turkmenistan, possibly themost reclusive of the Central Asian states.The itinerary will take in the must-see sitesof Ashgabat, Merv, Gonur, Nissa and Konye-Urgench, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> remote Darvaza in theKarakum Desert and Turkmenb<strong>as</strong>hy on theC<strong>as</strong>pian co<strong>as</strong>t.The group size is limited to 12 participants andwill be escorted by an English-speaking localtour leader.Day 1 Fly to AshgabatFly to Ashgabat.Day 2 AshgabatArrive Ashgabat and transfer to hotel for2 nights. Morning excursion to TolkuchkaBazaar, one of Central Asia’s most impressivemarkets before an afternoon sightseeing tourof Ashgabat, which will include the WorldWar II Memorial, Earthquake Monument,Turkmenb<strong>as</strong>hy Square and the GulustanBazaar. (B,L,D)Day 3 Ashgabat to DarvazaMorning visit to the Turkmen Carpet Museum,amongst its exhibits is the world’s largesthand-woven carpet, and the NationalMuseum, which gives an insight into thehistory of the Turkmen nation and its people.After lunch head north into the Karakumdesert, where you will visit the semi-nomadicvillage of Erbent and some small desert cratersbefore arriving at Darvaza, a most impressiveflaming crater located at a remote spot.Overnight camp. (B,L,D)Day 4 Darvaza to D<strong>as</strong>hoguzDrive north through the desert to thehistorical Konye Urgench. Konye Urgench w<strong>as</strong>once considered one of the most importantcities in the Islamic World. This area, largelydestroyed by the Mongols and Timur, h<strong>as</strong>many sites of historical interest. Continue tothe provincial capital, D<strong>as</strong>hoguz for overnightstay. (B,L,D)Day 5 D<strong>as</strong>hoguz to Turkmenb<strong>as</strong>hyMorning visit to the main market of D<strong>as</strong>hoguz,before flight to Turkmenb<strong>as</strong>hy, located onthe C<strong>as</strong>pian Co<strong>as</strong>t. Visit the small JapaneseMemorial before an introductory tour of thecity and overnight stay in Turkmenb<strong>as</strong>hy. (B,L,D)Day 6 Turkmenb<strong>as</strong>hy to BalkanabatDrive to Balkanabat, provincial capital of theregion and check in to the Nebitchi Hotelfor overnight stay. This afternoon enjoy anintroductory tour of this small city, followedby free time to explore at your leisure. (B,L,D)Day 7 Balkanabat to AshgabatDrive to Ashgabat and en route visitthe Kow Ata Underground Lake, beforevisiting the Geok Deppe Stud Farm and theMosque of Turkmenb<strong>as</strong>hy. Check in to hotelfor overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 8 Ashgabat to MaryMorning sightseeing tour of Ashgabatincluding Ene Mahri and the Memorial toAtamurat Niyazov, the Lenin Monument,Turkmenistan Trade Centre and AshgabatPark. Visit Nisa Fortress, an impressiveParthian site before transfer to the airportfor flight to Mary. On arrival transfer to hotelfor 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 9 Mary to GonurMorning visit to the historical site of Gonur.(B,L,D)Day 10 Merv to AshgabatMorning visit to Merv, which in its heyday, w<strong>as</strong>one of the most important o<strong>as</strong>is cities on theSilk Road and parts date to the 6th centuryB.C. Excursion to the Mary Museum beforeflight back to Ashgabat. Transfer to hotel forovernight stay. (B,L,D)Day 11 Ashgabat to UKFree morning before transfer to the airportfor flight back to the UK. (B,L)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement14-24 Sept £2195 £260Prices include• Return flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s withTurkmenistan Airlines from LondonHeathrow• All airport taxes and security charges• Accommodation in various standardhotels and one night tented camping• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours• All camping equipment• Turkmen invitation letter, travel p<strong>as</strong>sand registrationPrices exclude• Turkmen Visa (see page 148)• Immigration Card (approximatelyUS$14 on arrival)115Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
ChinaThe Inside StoryAncient and modern cl<strong>as</strong>h full-on in China from thepowerhouse that is Shanghai to spiritual Lh<strong>as</strong>a. Beijingis a must with the exquisite Forbidden City and mightyTiananmen Square at its heart, while the futuristic Shanghaiskyline looks down on gems of gardens and the Europeanarchitecture on the Bund.Discover timeless China with the limestone islets of Guilin,ancient streets in Yangshuo and the heavenly gardens ofSuzhou. To be truly inspired, walk a section of the mindbogglingGreat Wall and wonder at the skill of the artisanswho crafted Xian’s Terracotta Army.China is rich in diversity; in the west discover the anciento<strong>as</strong>is towns along the Silk Road with their colourful markets,the everl<strong>as</strong>ting wildness of the Tibetan plateau and itsmon<strong>as</strong>teries once again populated by monks, the ruggedmountains and ethnic minorities of Yunnan Province andthe iconic panda in Szechuan Province.Storyto tell -ChristinaGibbonsWhy I loveChinaThe sheer variety ofcultures and landscapesin China never fails toenthral. I love uncoveringthe history of the ancientdyn<strong>as</strong>ties and, such isthe v<strong>as</strong>tness and depthof the country, thereis always somethingunexpected todiscover.400s BCWarring states build fortificationswhich later form part of theGreat Wall206 BC – 220 ADHan Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty opens uptrade routes along theSilk Road589 – 618Sui Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty builds legal,governmental, and societalframework960-1279Neo-Confucianism adopted<strong>as</strong> official state ideologyduring Song Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty1368 – 1644Ming Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty elongatesGreat Wall by 4,000 miles210 BCTerracotta Army builtto guard tomb of firstEmperor of China, Qin220 – 589Power struggles and anarchydominate Three Kingdoms era618 – 907Chinese art and cultureflourish under Tang Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty1271 – 1368Kublai Khan (grandsonof Genghis) establishesMongol Yuan Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in ChinaBicycles in BeijingExperience the frenetic energy ofthe nation’s capital <strong>as</strong> most of thelocals do - by bicycle. Despite itsv<strong>as</strong>tness, many of Beijing’s mainsights such <strong>as</strong> the Forbidden City,the Temple of Heaven and BeihaiPark are within a short distance ofeach other, and cycling betweenthem will give you a uniqueperspective of the city. Most hotelseither offer or can recommendbicycle rental services.The Great Walk of ChinaWalk the well-preserved Badalingsection of the Great Wall andmarvel at the spectacular views ofthis magnificent structure snakingalong the verdant landscape. Forthe more active traveller, therecently reopened Simatai sectionis a strenuous yet more authenticstretch with fewer tourists.Happy New Year!If you’re lucky enough to findyourself in China during its NewYear celebrations – which in 2013will fall on 10 February – thenexpect a colourful cacophony ofshimmering decorations, templefairs, fireworks and calls of“Congratulations, make money!”<strong>as</strong> locals exchange c<strong>as</strong>h-filled redenvelopes. This is a truly magicaltime of year to visit.See XianThere’s more to Xian than just theTerracotta Warriors. Make sure towander the ancient city walls – thelargest remaining structure of itskind in the world – before tryingsome delicious street food in theMuslim quarter. Visit the imposingBell Tower and ancient Wild GoosePagoda for an intriguing glimpseinto China’s f<strong>as</strong>cinating imperialhistory.Gorgeous GorgesMake some time to enjoy a nightor two on a relaxing Yangtze rivercruise, sailing through its famousgorges and numerous ancient sitesand towns on the way. Stop at thebreathtaking Three Gorges Damand learn how it affected life onthe Yangtze.AmurKAZAKHSTANMONGOLIAQiqiharHegangHarbin JixiShiheziUrumqiChangchunMudanjiangJilinKYRGYZSTANHamiShenyangBaotouFushunAksuHohhot Jinzhou BenxiK<strong>as</strong>hiBeijing NORTHKOREATAJIKISTANShijiazhuangJinanGolmud XiningHandanLanzhou Zhengzhou Tai'an YellowPAKISTANSeaXi'anXuzhouCHINANanjing SuzhouShanghaiINDIAChengduWuhanLh<strong>as</strong>aChongqingHangzhouZigongNanchang E<strong>as</strong>tNEPALGuiyang XiangtanPingxiangChinaBHUTANLiupanshui HengyangFuzhou SeaBANGLADESHKunmingLinzhou GuangzhouTaipeiBURMATAIWANVIETNAMHong Kong Kao-hsiungBay ofLAOSZhanjiangBengalSouth ChinaSeaHuangYangtzeBEIJINGChina - Perfect ForFor centuries, China h<strong>as</strong> appealed to travellers with a t<strong>as</strong>te for adventure andthis certainly still applies today. From sailing down the mighty Yangtze Riverand traversing the iconic Great Wall to sampling the culinary curiosities ofBeijing’s night markets, China offers epic, full-flavoured travel experiencesin every one of its huge provinces.1839First Opium Warbegins between Chinaand Great Britain1959Dalai Lama flees Tibetafter failed uprising againstChinese rule1989Troops open fire onstudent demonstratorsin Tiananmen Square2011China officially overtakesJapan <strong>as</strong> world’s secondlargesteconomy1644 – 1911Qing Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty rulesmore than third ofworld’s population1949People’s Republicof China foundedby Mao Zedong1976Chairman Mao diesafter 10-year ‘CulturalRevolution’1997Hong Kong returnedto China after 155years of British rule2013People born in Yearof the Snake exhibitintelligence, gracefulnessand materialism117Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof ChinaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality14 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-round118If you are visiting China for the first time, ormissed some of the famous sites on your l<strong>as</strong>tvisit, this itinerary is perfect for you.This is an individual tour, which includesprivate sightseeing, delicious lunches, alltransfers and accommodation in goodstandard 3 to 4-star hotels.Day 1 BeijingArrive Beijing, transfer to hotel for 3 nights.Day 2 BeijingFull day tour of Beijing, visiting TiananmenSquare and the magnificent Forbidden City.After lunch, visit the Summer Palace. (B,L)Day 3 BeijingDay excursion to the Great Wall at Badaling,This particular section of the wall is the mostrepresentative and preserved and you willhave the chance to climb the wall and takein the glorious and breathtaking views. Alsoincluded is a visit to the Ming Tombs. (B,L)Day 4 Beijing to XianMorning tour of the Hutongs by rickshaw. Ahutong is an old narrow lane or alley typicalin Beijing, where hutongs run into the severalthousand. Surrounding the Forbidden City,many were built during the Yuan, Ming andQing dyn<strong>as</strong>ties. On this tour you will see theimpressive Drum Tower, meet a family livingin a typical courtyard house. After lunch visitthe Temple of Heaven. Evening transfer tothe railway station for the overnight trainto Xian. (B,L)Day 5 XianArrive Xian early morning and check in to hotelfor 2 nights. Sightseeing in Xian including avisit to the Ancient City Walls, Wild GoosePagoda (regarded by many <strong>as</strong> a symbol of thecity) and the Bell Tower. (B,L)Day 6 XianThis morning is reserved for the must-seeof any visit to Xian – the incredible life-sizedTerracotta Warriors and Horses. After lunch,visit the Banpo Neolithic Village and HuaqingHot Springs, favourite retreat of emperors andtheir concubines during the Tang Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty.Return to Xian. (B,L)Day 7 Xian to ChongqingMorning visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum,which exhibits over 3,000 unearthedhistorical relics, a small fraction of theircollection. Most of the exhibited items are raretre<strong>as</strong>ures, before transfer to railway stationfor overnight train to Chongqing. (B)Day 8 ChongqingArrive Chongqing early morning and enjoy <strong>as</strong>ightseeing tour of the city including a visit toEling Park, one of the oldest private gardensin Chongqing. After free time for lunch, visitthe Great Hall, a local market and tea housebefore transfer to the Yangtze cruise boat,your home for the next 3 nights. (B)Day 9-10 Yangtze CruiseEnjoy the majestic scenery of the ThreeGorges and the amazing Yangtze Dam enroute to Yichang including shore excursionsto the ghost city of Fengdu and the LesserThree Gorges. (B,L,D)Day 11 Yichang to ShanghaiArrive Yichang, a major city of Hubei Provinceand transfer to airport for afternoon flight toShanghai. Transfer to hotel for 3 nights. (B)Day 12 ShanghaiFull day tour with lunch, exploring theattractions of this bustling metropolisincluding the futuristic Shanghai Museum, theJade Buddha Temple, Yu Gardens and YuyuanMarket. In the afternoon, visit the Old Town,Nanjing Road and stroll along Shanghai’sfamous waterside promenade - The Bund. (B,L)Day 13 ShanghaiFree day to do l<strong>as</strong>t minute shopping or take aboat trip on the Huangpu River. (B)Day 14 Shanghai to UKTransfer to airport or railway for onwardconnections. (B)Prices fromJan, Feb, DecPer person twin-share £1485Single room supplement £555Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug, NovPer person twin-share £1575Single room supplement £630Apr, May, Sep, OctPer person twin-share £1660Single room supplement £725Prices include• Accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• Accommodation in standard twincabins on board cruise boat Chongqingto Yichang• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportation• Train tickets in soft cl<strong>as</strong>s 4-berthcompartments• Flight tickets, Yichang to Shanghai ineconomy cl<strong>as</strong>s• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Chinese Visa (see page 148)• International Flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for the best available pricesCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Gardensof ChinaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality14 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-roundChinese gardens have been an inspiration forcenturies with their ingenious use of rocks,water and trees. This tour takes you to someof the country’s most resplendent parks andgreen spaces; visit the famous gardens ofSuzhou, the magnificent karst scenery ofGuilin and the extraordinary rice terracesof Longshen.Day 1 ShanghaiArrive in Shanghai and transfer to your hotelfor a three night stay.Day 2 ShanghaiEnjoy a full day tour exploring the attractionsof this bustling metropolis, including visits tothe futuristic Shanghai Museum, the JadeBuddha Temple, the Yu Gardens and YuyuanMarket. In the afternoon visit the NanjingRoad and stroll along Shanghai’s famouswaterside promenade, the Bund. (B,L,D)Day 3 Shanghai to SuzhouVisit China’s most famous garden city andcentre of the silk industry, Suzhou. Start with avisit to the Garden of the M<strong>as</strong>ter of the Nets;considered to be the best of Suzhou’s gardens,it w<strong>as</strong> originally laid out in the 12th century.Lunch is followed by a visit to the 15th centuryHumble Administrator’s Garden. (B,L)Day 4 Shanghai to NanningTransfer to the airport for the flight toNanning. Nanning is a brilliant example ofChina’s extraordinary economic boom - overthe l<strong>as</strong>t few years the city h<strong>as</strong> benefited froman ambitious landscaping scheme and todayit is rich in parks and gardens. (B,)Day 5 NanningExplore one of the largest collections ofmedicinal herbs and plants at the GuangxiMedicinal Herb Garden, with over 2,400species to cure almost any ailment. To balanceyour ying and yang, a lunch combining the localproduce is included. In the afternoon, visiteither the scenically beautiful area of QingxiuShan or Bailong Gongyuan. (B,L)Day 6 Nanning to LiuzhouTravel by road to the city of Liuzhou for anovernight stay. Often overshadowed by itsmore famous neighbour, Guilin, Liuzhou alsoh<strong>as</strong> its fair share of remarkable karst sceneryand tranquil parks. (B)Day 7 GuilinCharacterised by its distinctive, greenerycoveredkarst formations looming over themajestic Li River, Guilin is one of the highlightsof any trip to China. Transfer to the hotel fora three night stay. (B)Day 8 GuilinVisit Guilin’s most attractive park, the SevenStars Park, so called after the mountains’resemblance to the Ursa Minor constellation.Lunch is followed by a free afternoon towander around this bustling city to visit sightssuch <strong>as</strong> the scenic Solitary Beauty Peak andElephant Rock. (B,L)Day 9 Guilin to YangshouTake a leisurely cruise to the once sleepy townof Yangshuo – now an energetic and buzzingplace full of market stalls, restaurants andbars. Time is given to explore Yangshuo’scobbled streets and take tea in one of themany open-air cafés before driving back toGuilin. (B,L)Day 10 Guilin to LongshengTravelling from Guilin to Longshengdemonstrates firsthand how man h<strong>as</strong>overcome the most difficult terrain. Theancient rice terraces are an incredible sight atany time of the year and well worth the climb.This region is home to the Dong, Zhuang,Yao and Miao ethnic minorities, all with theirunique costumes and traditions. (B,L)Day 11 Longsheng to Hong KongReturn to Guilin and transfer to the airportfor a short flight to Hong Kong. Transfer toyour hotel for a two night stay. (B)Day 12 Hong KongMake use of a free day to indulge in some retailtherapy in the city’s abundance of high-streetstores, shopping centres and chic boutiques,or enjoy sights such <strong>as</strong> Victoria Peak – HongKong’s highest point and the botanical gardensbeautifully placed in the middle of the city. (B)Day 13 Hong Kong to UKTransfer to the airport or railway for onwardconnections. (B)Prices fromDec, Jan, Feb, MarPer person twin-share £1910Single room supplement £385Jun, Jul, Aug, NovPer person twin-share £1925Single room supplement £395Apr, May, Sep, OctPer person twin-share £1995Single room supplement £475Prices include• Accommodation in 3 & 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers and transportation(except in Hong Kong)• Flight tickets Shanghai to Nanning andGuilin to Hong Kong in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• Chinese Visa (see page 148)• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor the best available prices119Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
MongoliaThe Inside StoryFor those seeking a bit of adventure and who crave theoutdoor life, Mongolia is a dream. Head out into the unspoiltwilderness with just your fellow travellers and a few nomadsfor company.Whether you arrive by train or by air, Ulaanbaatar willbe your starting point. Amongst the mishm<strong>as</strong>h of Sovietarchitecture and Buddhist mon<strong>as</strong>teries, gl<strong>as</strong>s tower blocks,international restaurants and shopping malls are beginningto develop.Travel by jeep to reach national parks where you can trekor ride a horse through the unspoilt natural beauty. Crossthe lunar landscape of the Gobi Desert and check out thecliffs where dinosaur fossils were discovered. The memoryof Genghis Khan is alive and well in Mongolia so ensureyou visit the monks in the walled compound of ErdeneZuu mon<strong>as</strong>tery, close to his ancient capital of Karakorum.Staying in a ger, the traditional Mongolian dwelling, is allpart of the experience.Storyto tell -CarlMeadowsWhy I loveMongoliaIt’s difficult not to fall inlove with the peaceful,nomadic culture ofthe Mongolian people.Living in are<strong>as</strong> ofcomplete wildernessand wandering beautifullandscapes is anexistence I could e<strong>as</strong>ilyget used to!200 BCThe Xiongnu – a tribe settled inMongolia – conquer northernand western Chinac. 1000Kitan Lio Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty rule overe<strong>as</strong>tern Mongolia, Manchuriaand northern China1206Genghis Khan unifies allMongol and Tatar tribes1368Newly foundedMing Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty drivesMongols from Beijing17th CQing Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty dividesthe country into Innerand Outer Mongolia350Chinese drive Xiongnuwestwards toward Europe1190Genghis Khan becomesKing of the Mongols1206-63Khan and his descendantsbuild biggest land empirein the world1380Golden Horde defeated by theRussians; Ming troops destroy theMongol capital, Karakorum
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in MongoliaIn the cityMany visitors see Mongolia’scapital, Ulaanbaatar, <strong>as</strong> a transienthub from which to visit arguablymore appealing parts of thecountry, but there’s plenty ofinterest here to keep you busy fora couple of days. Visit the beatingheart of the city, SukhbaatarSquare, the peaceful Gandanbuddhist mon<strong>as</strong>tery and thenational Museum of MongolianHistory before heading up toZaisan for panoramic sunset views.Hold your horsesHorseback remains a popularmethod of travel in Mongolia andthere’s no more authentic wayto experience the country thangetting into the saddle yourselfand exploring the wilderness likea real nomad. Many horsebacktours include overnight staysin ger camps, making for a trulyunforgettable experience.Festival FunEvery July, Mongolia bursts withactivity <strong>as</strong> the country celebratesthe nadaam Festival. Thebiggest celebrations are held inUlaanbaatar, with citizens pittingthemselves against each other in <strong>as</strong>eries of sporting events includingMongolian wrestling, archery andhorse racing.Go Gobino visit to Mongolia would becomplete without discoveringthe tre<strong>as</strong>ures of the immenseGobi Desert. The Khongorrin Elssand dunes which can often beheard “singing”, the impressiveYoliin Am Valley and the flamingcliffs of bayan Zag are particularhighlights.Bowled overafter a long journey through thesteppe there is nothing quite likea refreshing bowl of Mongolia’snational drink, airag. Made fromfermented mare’s milk, it issomewhat of an acquired t<strong>as</strong>te butit’s considered terribly impolite torefuse offerings in Mongolia, sobe sure to take at le<strong>as</strong>t a sip.Contact a regent Mongoli<strong>as</strong>pecialist to help put together yourideal itinerary.R U S S I ASünbaatarUlaangomOlgiyMörönErdenetDarhanBulganDzüunharaaHovdUlaanbaatarUli<strong>as</strong>tayTsetserlegBaganuurNalayh ÖndörhaanAltayArvayheerBayanhongorMandalgoviSaynshandA l t a i M o u n t a i n sMONGOLIASelengaG o b iDalandzadgadKerulenChoybalsanBaruun-UrtUlaanbaaTarC H I N AMongolia - Perfect ForMongolia is an unspoilt haven for adventurers. From unending steppe andtaiga to enormous lakes and the rocky landscapes of glorious national parkssuch <strong>as</strong> Terelj, hikers and ramblers will revel in the sun-bl<strong>as</strong>ted vist<strong>as</strong> andf<strong>as</strong>cinating geological formations. There’s no better place to stretch yourlegs after a long week on the Trans-Siberian from Moscow.1919Outer Mongoliaoccupied by theChinese army1938Stalinist purges see manyBuddhist mon<strong>as</strong>teriesdestroyed and lam<strong>as</strong> murdered1949-61Trans-Mongolian Railwaybuilt, linking China with Russia1911Outer Mongolia declaresindependence followingthe fall of Qing Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty1921-24Leftist revolutionaries driveout Chinese and Tsarist forces;Mongolian People’s Republicis proclaimed1946Mongolians vote forindependence in aUN plebiscite1993First direct presidentialelections held121Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
North KoreaThe Inside StoryTwenty-five years after <strong>Regent</strong>’s first group entered NorthKorea, visitors to this perplexing country still find it <strong>as</strong>f<strong>as</strong>cinating. As the leading UK experts on North Korea wework closely with the authorities to develop programmeswhich push the boundaries for tourism here.Part of the fun of a visit to North Korea is to expectthe unexpected, so go with the flow and you will berewarded with an intriguing tour. Appreciate the pompand propaganda of Pyongyang before heading out of thecity and meandering through the endless corridors of theInternational Friendship Exhibition.Visit Panmunjom in the DMZ where you can gaze across theborder at the stony-faced South Korean guards and evenenter one of the huts that straddles the border. Learn aboutlife on a co-operative farm and make sure you buy somepropaganda <strong>as</strong> a memento of your visit to this curiosity.This year we’re pushing the boundaries of travel in NorthKorea with our Remote North Korea Group Tour, exploringthe Rajin–Sonbong Free Trade Zone for the first time. Seeour website for more details.Storyto tell -CarlMeadowsWhy I loveNorth KoreaNorth Korea is like adifferent universe. I’vevisited many times overthe years but it neverfails to surprise me indifferent ways, fromthe exceedingly friendlypeople to the beautifulsights, North Koreah<strong>as</strong> to be seen to bebelieved.57-18 BCThree Kingdoms of Silla,Goguryeo and Baekje founded676Silla repels Chineseinv<strong>as</strong>ion and unites muchof Three Kingdoms1945Japanese occupation of Koreaends; Soviet troops occupyNorth, US troops South1948Democratic People’s Republicof Korea is proclaimed withKim Il Sung <strong>as</strong> premier1968USS Pueblo – a US spyvessel – is captured byNorth Korean gunboats372-527Kingdoms adoptBuddhism1231The Mongols invade Korea1946Soviet-backed Workers’ Partyof North Korea is founded1950-53North and South at war:over 2 million lives are lost
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in North KoreaThe Streets of PyongyangMost tours to North Korea willcentre on its capital – the livingmonument to socialism that isPyongyang. The city is dominatedby the spectres of Kim Il Sungand Kim Jong Il, with giant bronzestatues and cheerful murals onevery corner depicting the departedleaders in various heroic poses.The many museums, monumentsand landmarks here will give you acomprehensive glimpse into howthis curious country came to be theway it is today.Going UndergroundWhile in Pyongyang, you will havethe chance to travel on the city’sfully functioning subway system.This is one of the few opportunitieswhere visitors can mix with regularDPRK citizens going about theireveryday lives and is an experiencenot to be missed.No Man’s LandNorth and South Korea aretechnically still at war witheach other and a visit to theDemilitarised Zone on the borderprovides a brilliant insight into thetensions between the two. Guidedby an army escort, you will learn allabout the DMZ before getting thechance to peer over to the Southfrom one of the huts that straddlethe border.What friends are forCarved into the mountains atscenic Myohyang, the InternationalFriendship Exhibition is probablylike no other museum you’ll eversee. Comprising two v<strong>as</strong>t, JamesBond villain-esque complexes –one dedicated to Kim Il Sung, theother to Kim Jong Il – the exhibitioncontains thousands of gifts givento the leaders by internationalgovernments, organisations(including <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>!) andthe odd celebrity. Notable offeringsinclude a bullet-proof limousinefrom Stalin, a crocodile skin suitc<strong>as</strong>efrom C<strong>as</strong>tro and a metal horsemanfrom Colonel Gaddafi.HoeryongNajinTumenMusanCh’ongjinPYONGYANGKoreaBayCHINAKujangYaluSinuijuChongiuHyesanManp’uKanggyeAnjuNamp’oHuich’onHamhungNORTHTokch’inKOREASunchonNumHaejuChangyonOngjinKapsanHyesanPYONGYANGSongnimH a m g y o n s - s a n m a e kKaesongIwonPukch’ongTongjosonmanHungnamYonghungWonsanKuumYangdokKosanSOUTHKOREAMyongeh’onKilchuKimch’aekTanch’onSea ofJapanNorth Korea - Perfect ForPioneering tourists yearning to break the mould will find the curious republicof North Korea a unique, challenging and wholly satisfying travel experience.Those with a smidgen of interest in politics will be f<strong>as</strong>cinated by the propagandaand the totalitarian nature of life here while learning about how the countrycame to be at politicised landmarks such <strong>as</strong> the DMZ.1985<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>sends its first tourgroup to the DPRK1994Kim Il Sung dies andis succeeded by hisson, Kim Jong Il1998The late Kim Il Sung isnamed ‘Eternal President’2011Kim Jong Il dies and issucceeded by his son,Kim Jong Un1972New constitution namesKim Il Sung <strong>as</strong> president1991North Koreajoins the UN1996Severe faminegrips the country2007North and South Korea’sPrime Ministers meet forthe first time in 15 years123Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
PioneeringNorth KoreaGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeDeparture18 daysGroup TourFully Guided27 Aug-12/13Sept 2013124Perfect for those wanting a more detailed andunique experience in this secret world, ournew tour focuses on rarely and almost nevervisitedare<strong>as</strong>, taking in many places not evenmentioned in the guide books. This 18 dayjourney includes the absolute “must sees” ofNorth Korea, but also spends nine nights awayfrom the capital visiting Mt. Paekdu, Chongjin,Hamhung, Wonsan, Mt. Kumgang and Nampo.Just to access some of these regions we willbe chartering an aircraft - this really is a oncein a lifetime experience into unknown pocketsof an unknown country.This group tour will be limited to 16participants and will be escorted by a ToursManager from <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>.Day 1 Fly to PyongyangFly to Pyongyang from Beijing. (D)Day 2 PyongyangEnjoy a full day touring Pyongyang. Visit theMansudae Fountain Park before <strong>as</strong>cendingMansu Hill to the Mansudae GrandMonument, the centrepiece of which is thespectacular 20 metre tall bronze statues ofKim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. The group willbe expected to lay a wreath of flowers at thefoot of the statues before bowing in unisonbefore it. Visit the nearby Chollima Statue, thelegendary winged horse that w<strong>as</strong> adopted <strong>as</strong>the symbol for national movement for rapiddevelopment after the Korean War. Fromhere, visit the Grand People’s Study House,the national library, which overlooks Kim IlSung Square. After lunch, head out into theple<strong>as</strong>ant suburb of Mangyondae to visit thebirthplace of President Kim Il Sung. Returningto the city, visit a Middle School and hopefullysee a music and dance performance put on bythe students. (B,L,D)The Arirang M<strong>as</strong>s Games is scheduled to takeplace whilst we are in the country, and we havetentatively pencilled in the evening of day 2 toattend. Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that The M<strong>as</strong>s Games isprone to date changes and cancellations, socan never be 100% guaranteed. Tickets arenot included in the tour cost and are expectedto be €80 - €300 per person, depending on theseating cl<strong>as</strong>s required.Day 3 Pyongyang to KaesongVisit the USS Pueblo, an 850 ton US spy boatcaptured in 1968 by the Koreans off the co<strong>as</strong>tof Wonsan, before heading south to discoverthe Sariwon Folklore Village. After lunch, headfurther south along the Reunification Highwaytowards Kaesong, enjoying a detour to theattractive Pakyon Falls en route. On arrival inKaesong, check in to hotel for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 4 KaesongPay a visit to Sonjuk Bridge before heading toPanmunjom - the DMZ and border with SouthKorea. Meet with an army escort who willexplain the history of the DMZ, before movingon to the Armistice Talks Hall. From here,head to the border itself to be escorted (localconditions permitting and possibly under thewatchful eyes of South Korean soldiers) intoone of the huts which straddle the North-South Korean border.After lunch, visit the Koryo History Museum,before heading for a viewing platform on thenorth side of the DMZ to look at the ConcreteWall or “Wall of Division.”A senior-army guidewill here likely explain the history of the walland border tensions. Return to Kaesong withtime to visit Janamsan Park en route. (B,L,D)Day 5 Kaesong to PyongyangTravel back to Pyongyang, stopping enroute at one of the best preserved tombsin the DPRK, The Tomb of King Kongmin.Arriving back in the capital, visit the JucheTower, symbol of the Juche Idea (nationalself reliance, literally “M<strong>as</strong>ter of one’s self”)penned by Kim Il Sung. From here also visitthe centrally located Monument to theFoundation of the Workers Party of Koreaand the f<strong>as</strong>cinating Fatherland Liberation WarMuseum. This very large museum dedicated tothe dev<strong>as</strong>tating war h<strong>as</strong> some truly f<strong>as</strong>cinatingdisplays and exhibits. Check back into hotelfor 2 night stay. (B,L,D)Day 6 PyongyangVisit the awesome Kumsusan MemorialPalace, the former residence of Kim Il Sung,and now the Mausoleum of both Kim Il Sungand Kim Jong Il. The Mausoleum itself isfollowed by exhibits showc<strong>as</strong>ing medals ofhonour bestowed upon the President anda monument to the mourning of the nationafter his death in 1994. (Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that themausoleum is closed and expected to reopenin April 2013.) Moving on, visit the nearbyRevolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery, hometo the graves of more than 200 of Korea’sleading resistance figures . After lunch, headto the Pyongyang Grand Theatre, and take awalk along the main boulevard to Kim Il SungSquare, the heart of the nation which regularlyhosts military parades and m<strong>as</strong>s events. Thesquare is lined with important buildings andmuseums. Take time for some people watchingin Moranbong Park before dinner back at thehotel. (B,L,D)Day 7 Pyongyang to SamjiyonDepart the city for nine nights in the wildsof North Korea. Transfer to the airport andboard our chartered Antonov 24 aircraftfor the flight north to Samjiyon, This borderregion is home to Mt. Paekdu – a peak of greatspiritual symbolism to the Korean people,enhanced by the fact that it w<strong>as</strong> the homeof the Korean People’s Army during the waragainst the Japanese. Arriving in Mt. Paekdu,visit the impressive and beautifully locatedSamjiyon Grand Monument at Lake Samji.From here, carry on to Daehongdan Countyfor an insight into life in this extreme northerncorner of the country, visiting farmers’ fields,the local village, county town and a potatoprocessing plant. Drive to Samjiyon town andcheck into hotel for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Day 15 Wonsan to PyongyangDrive back to Pyongyang, stopping enroute for a brief rest at the Sinphyong TeaHouse. On arrival back in the capital, headunderground for an extended ride on themost impressive Pyongyang Metro. Surfacingnear the Arch of Triumph, move on to theStamp Shop before visiting the centralPyongyang Schoolchildren’s Palace, one oftwo complexes in Pyongyang that caters tothe after school activities of Pyongyang’s mostgifted youth. Tour the facilities before seeinga performance put on by the students. Fromhere, head to Korea’s E<strong>as</strong>t co<strong>as</strong>t and on to theport city of Nampo to check into the hotel foran overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 16 PyongyangDay 8 SamjiyonHead to nearby Mt. Paekdu for a full day inthis stunning area. Go through the entryformalities (this is right beside the Chineseborder) before <strong>as</strong>cending to the crater rimof the mountain. From here, those who wishcan (time and weather permitting) carry on upto the highest point in the Korean Peninsula,Janggun Peak, at 2,750 metres in heightor head down the 2,160 steps to the shoreof Lake Chon. After a picnic lunch, visit thePaekdu Secret Camps, from where the Armyw<strong>as</strong> b<strong>as</strong>ed and Kim Il Sung headquarteredfrom 1936 to 1943. Return to the hotel viathe scenic Rimyongsu Falls. (B,L,D)Day 9 Samjiyon to ChongjinDepart Samjiyon by our Antonov 24 on a shortflight to Orang - essentially a military airport,where on previous <strong>Regent</strong> tours MiG fighterjets have been spotted. Head north alongthe attractive co<strong>as</strong>tal road to Chongjin, theadministrative capital of North HamgyongProvince. Chongjin is an industrial and portcity which receives extremely few foreignvisitors. Here, visit the main square and itsstatue of President Kim Il Sung, the ProvincialRevolutionary Museum and the SteelworksKindergarten, where we will hopefully enjoyan arts performance put on by the children.Visit the Foreign Sailors Club before checkinginto the hotel to overnight. (B,L,D)Day 10 Chongjin to HamhungDepart Chongjin for Orang Airport and <strong>as</strong>hort flight to Hamhung, North Korea’ssecond most populous city and a majorindustrial hub. Visit Donhung Hill andHamhung’s statue of President Kim Il Sung,Hamhung Bongung (the house where RiSong Gye, the founder king of the Ri dyn<strong>as</strong>tyresided), the Hungnam Fertiliser Factory andthe exterior of the Hamhung Grand Theatre.Return to the hotel to overnight. (B,L,D)Day 11 Hamhung to Mt KumgangDrive to Wonsan, visiting the Dongbong Co-Operative Farm en route. On arrival in the city,visit the Small Train Station Museum and theProvincial Art Gallery (state art shop) beforecontinuing the journey south to Mt. Kumgang.Time and weather permitting there is theoption to stop at Sijung Beach en route. Arrivein Mt. Kumgang and check into the hotel for a3 night stay. (B,L,D)Day 12 Mt KumgangMt. Kumgang had been off limits to touristsin North Korea for some years; thisspectacularly beautiful area only “opened”to visitors from the North in summer 2010.Enjoy an attractive walk up to the KuryongWaterfall, then visit the beautiful Samil Lake,where those who wish can take a short walk.Also visit the small “Tourist Shop” in whatis essentially the ghost town resort centredeveloped by Hyundai. (B,L,D)Day 13 Mt KumgangEnjoy a second full day in the stunningKumgang Mountains, starting with a walk toManmulsan, another beautiful route. Thosewho choose not to attempt the full 2 ½ - 3 hourtrail will still encounter beautiful mountainscenery after just a few minutes. After lunchenjoy some free time to relax at the hotel ornearby spa. (B,L,D)Day 14 Mt Kumgang to WonsanDrive back to Wonsan. Today is an importantnational holiday and various special eventsare expected to be taking place across thecountry. It is likely that m<strong>as</strong>s dancing willtake place in Wonsan city square and specialartistic performances and exhibitions will takeplace in the city – we will strive to see <strong>as</strong> much<strong>as</strong> is permitted in the afternoon. Full detailswill not be available until the day. (B,L,D)Head to the West Sea Barrage, a mostimpressive 8km long barrage built in the1980’s along the estuary of the TaedongRiver. From here visit some heavy industrialsites in Pyongyang (subject to reconfirmationlocally) before returning to Pyongyang to visitthe newly opened Pyongyang Folklore Parkand Folklore Museum on the outskirts of thecity. Check in to the hotel for the final nightin North Korea - those who wish can enjoy atrip to a Pyongyang funfair after the farewelldinner. (Payable locally). (B,L,D)Day 17 Pyongyang to BeijingTransfer to the airport and depart Pyongyangon the 1030 flight to Beijing. Ple<strong>as</strong>e note thatschedules are subject to confirmation, and wetherefore recommend that you overnight inBeijing before taking any onwards flights. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £2795Single room supplement £595Prices include• Accommodation throughout in 3-starequivalent or best available hotels• Full-board in North Korea• Return flights Beijing – Pyongyang or…• …one-way Beijing – Pyongyang flight& one way Pyongyang – Beijing trainticket• All transfers and transportation• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours• North Korean visa fee and visa servicePrices exclude• International flights UK - Beijing –ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for best availableprices• Services in China – ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor accommodation, transfers andsightseeing options• Chinese double entry visa –see page 148125Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicNorth KoreaGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality9 daysGroup TourFully GuidedApr-Oct126For 2013 we will be operating six cl<strong>as</strong>sic grouptours, which follow our traditional itinerary,improved year-on-year to maximise the firsttime visitor’s travel to this f<strong>as</strong>cinating nation.The dates of these tours have been timedto best coincide with various special events,national holidays or weather conditions, soeach tour will vary slightly <strong>as</strong> to what the visitorwill experience. Whichever tour you book,the main highlights will include Pyongyang,Kaesong, the DMZ and Mt. Myohyang.We operate these tours with a minimum of2 persons and a maximum of 16 persons pergroup. We believe this is the optimum size forgroup tours to North Korea and is perfectfor those who prefer a group environmentor an organised tour programme that offersflexibility and quality, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> independencefor those who don’t want to travel with alarge group.Day 1 Fly to PyongyangDepart Beijing and fly to Pyongyang with AirKoryo. Arrive Pyongyang, meet with guidesand commence introductory city tour of thecapital including the famous Mansudae GrandMonument. Transfer to hotel for 2 nights. (D)Day 2 PyongyangFull day sightseeing in Pyongyang, withvisits to many sites across the city includingKumsusan Memorial Palace, a ride on theimpressive Pyongyang Metro and a stroll inMoran Hill Park. (B,L,D)Day 3 Panmunjom & DMZDepart Pyongyang and head south tovisit Panmunjom and a tour of the DMZaccompanied by an army escort. Afternoonsightseeing in and around Kaesong includingthe Tomb of King Kongmin. Overnight stayin Sariwon. (B,L,D)Day 4 Pyongyang to Mt. MyohyangReturn to Pyongyang and visit the GrandPeople’s Study House, Juche Tower and KimIl Sung Square before heading north to Mt.Myohyang. Overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 5 Mt. Myohyang to NampoTour the International Friendship Exhibitionand Pohyon Temple. After a picnic lunch headto the Ryonggang Hot Spa Hotel near Nampofor an overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 6 Nampo to PyongyangVisit the West Sea Barrage and an orphanagein Nampo before returning to Pyongyang.In the afternoon visit MangyondaeRevolutionary Site and MangyondaeSchoolchildren’s Palace, before transfer tohotel for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 7 PyongyangFinal full day in North Korea, visiting manysites all over the city including USS Puebloand the Foreign Language Bookshop. In theevening enjoy a farewell dinner together withyour guides and driver. (B,L,D)Day 8 Depart PyongyangThis morning depart Pyongyang on theovernight train to Beijing. (B,L,D)It is also possible to fly back to Beijing today.For the more adventurous, take the train toDandong and onward ferry to South Korea.Day 9 Pyongyang to BeijingArrive into Beijing in the morning.Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement27 Apr – 5 May £1395 £25025 Jul – 2 Aug £1395 £25010 – 18 Aug £1395 £2507 – 15 Sep £1395 £25014 – 22 Sep £1395 £2505 – 13 Oct £1395 £250Prices include• Accommodation throughout in NorthKorea in 3-star equivalent or bestavailable hotels• Full board in North Korea• One way Beijing – Pyongyang air ticketand one way Pyongyang – Beijing trainticket• All transfers and transport throughout• Sightseeing with English-speaking guide• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours• North Korean visa fee and visa servicePrices exclude• Services in China – ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for a quote for accommodation,transfers and sightseeing tours inBeijing• International flights from the UK –ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for the best availableprices• Chinese double entry visa(see page 148)Extra notes• We cannot normally accept bookingswith less than 6 weeks notice• We strongly advise that you spendat le<strong>as</strong>t one night in Beijing prior tocommencing the trip<strong>Regent</strong> RecommendsNovotel Xinqiao HHHH for the perfectBeijing stopover. Walking distance fromthe Forbidden City and close to a metrostation this is the ideal location to explorethe city when time is short. Ask us formore details or a quote.Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
IndividualItineraries inNorth KoreaTour duration 4 days +Holiday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onalityIndividual TourFully GuidedFeb-NovA Weekend in North Korea(4 days)An ideal option for those with limited time,this itinerary gives the traveller three nightsand two full days in the DPRK, which givesjust enough time for a whistle-stop tour ofPyongyang and a day trip down to Kaesongand the Demilitarised Zone. This tour canstart on any Saturday.Day 1 Fly to PyongyangFly from Beijing to Pyongyang. Commencesightseeing in Pyongyang and check in to hotelfor 3 nights. (L,D)Day 2 KaesongFull day tour to Kaesong and the DemilitarisedZone. (B,L,D)Day 3 PyongyangFull day tour of Pyongyang. (B,L,D)Day 4 Pyongyang to BeijingTransfer to airport for flight back to Beijing. (B)Cl<strong>as</strong>sic North KoreaIndividual Tour (9 days)This is the same itinerary <strong>as</strong> our cl<strong>as</strong>sic NorthKorea group tour (see previous) but forthose travelling individually. These tours canstart on any Saturday and (with some smallamendments to the itinerary) on Tuesdaysand Thursdays also.Day 1 Fly to PyongyangFly from Beijing to Pyongyang. Commencesightseeing in Pyongyang. Overnight stay inPyongyang. (L,D)Day 2 PyongyangMorning tour of Pyongyang. Drive to Kaesongfor an overnight stay and sightseeing. (B,L,D)Day 3 Panmunjom & DMZVisit Panmunjom and the DMZ. Returnto Pyongyang for further sightseeing andovernight stay. (B,L,D)Day 4 Pyongyang & Mt. MyohyangSpend most of the day touring Pyongyang. Inthe late afternoon head to Mt. Myohyang forovernight stay. (B,L,D)Day 5 Mt. MyohyangTour the Mt. Myohyang area. Depart in theafternoon to Nampo for an overnight stay.(B,L,D)Day 6 NampoVisit the West Sea Barrage and sites in Nampo.Return to Pyongyang for overnight stay. (B,L,D)Day 7 PyongyangFinal full day touring Pyongyang. Eveningfarewell dinner and overnight stay Pyongyang.(B,L,D)Day 8 Pyongyang to BeijingDepart Pyongyang on the train to Beijing. (Airoption to Beijing also possible). (B,L,D)Day 9 Arrive BeijingArrive in Beijing by train.Prices fromA Weekend in North KoreaPer person twin-share £990Single room supplement £110Sole traveller £1210Cl<strong>as</strong>sic North Korea Individual TourPer person twin-share £1670Single room supplement £250Sole traveller £2190Prices include• Accommodation throughout in NorthKorea in 3-star equivalent or bestavailable hotels on full board b<strong>as</strong>is• Transport between Beijing andPyongyang via Air or Air/Rail• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speaking guide• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours• North Korean visa fee and visa servicePrices exclude• Services in China – ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor accommodation, transfers andsightseeing tours in Beijing• International flights UK – Beijing.Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for the best availableprices.• Chinese double entry visa (see page148)Extra notes• We cannot normally accept bookingswith less than 6 weeks notice• We strongly advise that you spendat le<strong>as</strong>t one night in Beijing prior tocommencing the trip<strong>Regent</strong> RecommendsNovotel Xinqiao HHHH for the perfectBeijing stopover. Walking distance fromthe Forbidden City and close to a metrostation this is the ideal location to explorethe city when time is short. Ask us formore details or a quote.127Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
South KoreaThe Inside StorySouth Korea is an intriguing country rich in ancient cultureand harmony. Have fun in vibrant Seoul, where neonsigns compete with exquisite temples and palaces, shop induty-free shops and take in the view from the Seoul Towerfrom where you can see the Han River <strong>as</strong> it winds throughthe city.The mountainous countryside couldn’t contr<strong>as</strong>t morewith Seoul. Here you will find thousands of temples, hometo the country’s Buddhist monks, where you can enjoy acontemplative stay. Temple-hop in the former capital ofthe Silla kingdom, Gyeongju, and admire the beautifullypreserved 80,000 wooden printing blocks of Buddhistscriptures, Tripikata Koreana, in Haeinsa Temple in Gay<strong>as</strong>anNational Park. Take the cable car to a hilltop temple andsoak in the hot springs.Explore ancient villages, take the high-speed train fromSeoul to Busan or peek into North Korea from the BorderUnification Observatory.Storyto tell -PeterWybrowWhy I loveSouth KoreaSouth Korea offers aradical change of paceand mood from ourother destinations. Thecities here are sleek,vibrant, ultra-modernmetropolises bo<strong>as</strong>tinginternational cuisineand great shoppingopportunities, allwrapped up ina f<strong>as</strong>cinatinglyunique culture.57-18 BCThree Kingdoms of Silla,Goguryeo and Baekje founded676Silla repels Chineseinv<strong>as</strong>ion and unites muchof Three Kingdoms1392General Yi Seonggyecrowned king, heraldingthe Joseon Dyn<strong>as</strong>ty1653Hendrick Hamel shipwreckedon Jeju Island; first westernerto chronicle the JoseonDyn<strong>as</strong>ty1945Japanese occupation of Koreaends; Soviet troops occupyNorth, US troops South372-527Kingdoms adoptBuddhism1234Sangjeong Gogeum Yemun,world’s first metal-blockprinted text, is published1396Capital city moves toHanyang – modernday Seoul1895Japan wins Sino-JapaneseWar, ending Chineseinfluence over Korea
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in South KoreaSeoul SurvivorOne of Seoul’s most enduringlypopular sights is ChangdeokPalace – the best preserved ofall the capital’s palaces. Originallyconstructed in the late 14thcentury, the palace groundscover over 110 acres and includea number of wooden pavilions,ponds, splendidly patterned wallsand many other beautiful features,all placed in perfect harmony withtheir natural surroundings.Wonders of the worldRecently awarded the distinctionof being named one of the “New7 Wonders of Nature” alongsidesights such <strong>as</strong> Table Mountainand the Amazon rainforest, JejuIsland bo<strong>as</strong>ts outstanding beautyfrom its rugged shores to its lushmeadows. The island is also home tothe extraordinary Haenyo women;divers who scour the ocean floor formarine products.Museum CityVisit Gyeongju and be amazed bythe wealth of historical riches tobe found in this ancient co<strong>as</strong>talcity, known <strong>as</strong> “the museumwithout walls”. Discover itsmany tre<strong>as</strong>ures including theUNESCO World Heritage Site ofSeokguram Grotto, Tumuli Park,a collection of royal Silla tombs,and Chomsongdae Observatory –one of the world’s earliest knownobservatories.The day theBuddha cameOn the first full moon day of thesixth month in the Buddhist lunarcalendar (around late springtime),the Koreans celebrate the birthof Buddha. Temples glow likeChristm<strong>as</strong> trees <strong>as</strong> lanterns acrossthe whole country are illuminatedin a spectacular display of colourand light.SEOULNORTHKOREAUijongbuPukhunYellow SeaT ’ a e b a e k - s a n m a e kCh’unch’onWonjuSEOULYongjuInchon SuwonCh’ungju AndongP’yongt’aekCh’onanP’ohangSOUTH SangjuKumiTaejonTaeguIriKunsanKimjeMokp’oKwangjuSokch’oChonjuHanKOREAKangnungTonghaeS o b a e k - s a n m a e kKogum-doKumhoNaktongUlchinM<strong>as</strong>anNamwon ChinjuSunch’onSea ofJapanKyongjuUlsanPusanChinhaeNamhae-doYosuKorea StraitChin-doChejuSouth Korea - Perfect ForSeoul is a perfect stopover for those exploring Asia - a f<strong>as</strong>t, modern andexciting city with plenty to offer. For those with more time South Korea isideal to see a homogenous nation with a f<strong>as</strong>cinating contemporary historymixed with rich traditions. From ancient temples and palaces to bustling citymarkets and vibrant nightlife, South Korea offers something for everyone.1953Korean War ends withce<strong>as</strong>efire after claimingover two million lives1988Seoul hostsOlympic Games2004Yeongi-Kongju selected<strong>as</strong> site for new capital,replacing Seoul by 20302012Jeju Island namedone of the ‘New 7Wonders of Nature’1950South declaresindependenceand war begins1980200 student protestorsshot and killed bytroops in Gwangju1998Kim Dae-jung elected president;pursues policy of economic andhumanitarian aid to North2006Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moonappointed secretary-generalof the UN129Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlights ofSouth KoreaGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality8 daysGroup TourFully GuidedYear-round130This f<strong>as</strong>cinating eight day tour is the perfectway to enjoy the highlights of South Korea.Starting in the capital of Seoul, visit themajestic Gyeongbokgung Palace andother must-see sights of the city includingNamdaemun Market. Travel to Gyeongju,known <strong>as</strong> the “museum without walls”, dueto its wealth of historical buildings, templesand artefacts, and explore many of thesetre<strong>as</strong>ures, including the UNESCO WorldHeritage Site of Seogguram Grotto, TumuliPark, a collection of royal Silla tombs,and Cheomseongdae Observatory, oneof the world’s earliest known survivingobservatories.Your journey continues to the port city ofBusan, where you can enjoy panoramicviews over the city at Busan Tower and takein the sights and sounds of the Jagalchi FishMarket and Haeundae Beach along with otherhighlights of the city. On your return to Seoulthere will be free time for shopping in themarkets of Itaewon Street for souvenirs totake home.This is a guaranteed group tour operated inconjunction with our South Korean partnersand not exclusive to <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>’ clients.They operate with a minimum of 2 persons.Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that our local partners reservethe right to change hotels to similar hotels ofthe same standard.Day 1 SeoulArrive Seoul, transfer to Hamilton Hotel for2 nights.Day 2 SeoulHalf day tour of Seoul including the NationalFolk Museum, Secret Garden, ChangdeokPalace and Seoul Tower on Mount Namsanfor a wonderful bird’s-eye view of the city. (B)Day 3 Seoul to DaeguMorning excursion to the Korean FolkVillage located just outside Seoul. Here, seetraditional 18-19th century houses of typicalrural families.Proceed to Songnisan National Park and theBeopjusa Temple, one of the largest and mostmagnificent temple sites in Korea. Transfer toDaegu via the express highway for overnightat the Lakehill Hotel or Daegu Grand Hotel. (B)Day 4 Daegu to GyeongjuMorning transfer to Gyeongju, where there isa tour of the Cheomseongdae AstronomicalObservatory, the oldest surviving observatoryin E<strong>as</strong>t Asia.Also included is a visit to Royal Tumuli Parkand the UNESCO listed Bulguksa Temple,followed by a walking tour of Gyeongju. Checkinto Kolon Hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 5 GyeongjuToday there is a full day tour of Gyeongjuincluding a visit to the Gwaeneung RoyalTomb and Seogguram Grotto. Enjoy abeautiful scenic drive along the co<strong>as</strong>tal roadto Guryongpo Port, before returning toGyeongju to visit Four-face Buddha and theNational Museum. (B)Day 6 Gyeongju To BusanDrive to the Unmoonsa Temple (BuddhistNuns’ Temple) for a brief excursion. Continueto Busan for a city tour to include Busan Towerfor panoramic views of the city.Also included is a visit to the must-seeJagalchi Fish Market and Nampodong Street.Overnight stay at the Busan Tourist Hotel. (B)Day 7 Busan to SeoulMorning transfer back to Seoul, where thereis free time for shopping along Itaewon Street.Overnight stay at the Hotel Hamilton. (B)Day 8 Seoul to UKCheck out of hotel and optional transfer toairport for flight back to the UK. (B)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement7, 21 Jan £1095 £3154, 18 Feb £1095 £3154, 18 Mar £1095 £3151, 15 Apr £1095 £3156, 20 May £1095 £3153, 17 Jun £1095 £3151, 15 Jul £1095 £3155, 19 Aug £1095 £3152, 23 Sep £1095 £3157, 21 Oct £1095 £3154, 18 Nov £1095 £3152, 16 Dec £1095 £315Prices include• Accommodation in 4 and 5-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers and transportationthroughout except departure transferin Seoul• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• International flights – ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for best available prices• Departure transfer in SeoulCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cl<strong>as</strong>sicSouth KoreaGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality11 daysGroup TourFully GuidedYear-roundThis group tour of South Korea beginsand ends in the capital, Seoul, a vibrantcity with endless attractions such <strong>as</strong> theGyeongbokgung Palace and the bustlingNamdaemun Market. Other popular highlightson this tour are the ancient city of Gyeongjuand the port town of Busan which h<strong>as</strong> arustic appeal. Chomsongdae Observatoryand Seokguram Grotto are also included, <strong>as</strong>is a stay at Samhw<strong>as</strong>a Temple, where youcan meditate and take part in other activitiesalongside the local monks.Day 1 Arrive SeoulArrive in Seoul and transfer to hotel for 2nights. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.Day 2 SeoulEnjoy a half-day tour of Seoul, with highlightsincluding the Gyeongbok Palace, National FolkMuseum and Seoul Tower, for a wonderfulbird’s-eye view of the city. The rest of the dayis free at leisure. (B)Day 3 Seoulto DaeguDepart Seoul and transfer to the Korean FolkVillage, home to traditional 18-19th centuryhouses. From here, travel on to SongnisanNational Park and the Beopjusa Temple.Overnight in Daegu. (B)Day 4 Daegu to GyeongjuTransfer to Gyeongju for a tour of theChomsongdae Astronomic Observatory,Royal Tumuli Park and Bulguksa Temple.Check into hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 5 GyeongjuDay 6 Gyeongju to BusanDrive to the Unmoonsa Temple (BuddhistNuns’ Temple) before continuing to Busanfor a city tour including Busan Tower, JagalchiFish Market and Nampodong Street. Checkinto hotel for 1 night. (B)Day 7 Busan to ChungjuTravel to Gay<strong>as</strong>an National Park to visitthe famous Haeinsa Temple, home to oneof Korea’s chief national tre<strong>as</strong>ures, theTripikata Koreana, made to protect Koreafrom Mongolian troops. Continue to Andongand Hahoe, a traditional village known for itsm<strong>as</strong>k dance. Travel to Chungju Lake and checkinto resort for 1 night. (B)Day 8 Gyeongju to BusanEnjoy a sightseeing boat trip on ChungjuLake (subject to weather conditions) beforetravelling to Gangneung to visit the ChamsoriGramophone and Audio Museum. Fromhere, continue to Mt. Seorak to stay at theSamhw<strong>as</strong>a Temple. Upon arrival at the templeyou will be given clothes to wear during yourstay <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> an explanation of temple life andcustoms for your stay. In the evening, attenda bell-ringing ceremony and enjoy chantingm<strong>as</strong>s and a course in meditation. (B)Day 9 Mt SeorakOpt for an early wake up for morning m<strong>as</strong>sand the chance to view the sunrise over theE<strong>as</strong>t Co<strong>as</strong>t. After breakf<strong>as</strong>t, transfer to theBorder Unification Observatory for viewsinto North Korea. Afterwards return to Mt.Seorak National Park and take a cable car toGwonkeumsansung to visit the ShinheungsaTemple. Here, choose to relax in hot springs orswim at the Waterpia Spa Park (paid locally).Check into hotel for 1 night. (B)Day 10 Mt Seorak to SeoulAfter breakf<strong>as</strong>t transfer to Gapyeong to visitthe Morning Calm Flower and Tree Park*,which displays and houses unique Korean wildflowers and trees in a garden located in anattractive mountain valley. From here transferto Seoul and visit Itaewon Street for a chanceto shop. Check into Hotel Hamilton for 1 night.*Tours in Jan-Apr and Nov-Dec the group willvisit Yangpyeong Film Studio instead of theMorning Calm Flower and Tree Park <strong>as</strong> theflowers are not in bloom. (B)Day 11 Depart SeoulTransfer to airport for onward connections. (B)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement7, 21 Jan £1595 £5254, 18 Feb £1595 £5254 , 18 Mar £1595 £5251, 15 Apr £1595 £5256 , 20 May £1595 £5253, 17 Jun £1595 £5251, 15 Jul £1595 £5255, 19 Aug £1595 £5252, 23 Sep £1595 £5257, 21 Oct £1595 £5254, 18 Nov £1595 £5252, 16 Dec £1595 £525Prices include• Accommodation in 4 & 5 -star hotelshotels with breakf<strong>as</strong>t• One night stay at Samhw<strong>as</strong>a Temple• Arrival transfer in Seoul• All transportation on the tour• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursEnjoy a full day tour of Gyeongju, visiting theGwaeneung Royal Tomb, Seogguram Grottoand taking a scenic drive along the co<strong>as</strong>talPrices excluderoad to Guryongpo Port. Afterwards return• International flights – ple<strong>as</strong>e contactto Gyeongju to visit 4-face Buddha and theus for best available prices131National Museum. (B) • Departure transfer in SeoulCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
IndochinaThe Inside StoryIndochina is the name collectively used to describe Vietnam,Laos and Cambodia and these captivating countries haveappealed to the experienced traveller looking for somethingnew on their Far E<strong>as</strong>t holiday for many years. It’s e<strong>as</strong>y toforget the struggles these nations have been through – andto an extent still are - <strong>as</strong> you are welcomed with open armsby locals wanting to set the record straight and to show thetrue nature of their respective countries beyond politics.The region offers gems of colonial architecture, magnificenttemples, sleepy villages, unspoilt tropical co<strong>as</strong>tline andstunning nature. From the grandeur of Angkor Wat inCambodia and the instantly recognisable karst formationsof Vietnam’s Halong Bay, to the peaceful serenity of languidLaos and the beauty of local life along the Mekong, thiscollection of Southe<strong>as</strong>t Asian countries will leave visitorsthoroughly enlightened and with enough memories to l<strong>as</strong>ta lifetime.Storyto tell -GillLeaningWhy I loveIndochinaMy Indochina highlightw<strong>as</strong> undoubtedlyexploring the v<strong>as</strong>t templecomplexes of Angkor.It’s surprising how fewtourists brave the earlystart to watch thesun rise, but it’s wellworth forfeiting anhour or two’s sleepto witness theiconic silhouetteemerging fromthe darkness.206 BCKingdom of the Nam VietDyn<strong>as</strong>ty extends fromVietnam to Canton802-1431Khmer Civilisation rulesover much of Southe<strong>as</strong>t Asia19th CMuch of Indochinais colonised by France1953Cambodia wins independence;Kingdom of Cambodia created,led by King Sihanouk55 ADChenla Kingdom (northCambodia) annexes theFunan (south Cambodia)12th CKing Suryavarmanbuilds Angkor Wat1945Ho Chi Minh announcesVietnam’s independence1954France grants Laosindependence but civilwar breaks out betweenroyalists and communists
MekongDays like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in IndochinaWat a viewNo trip to Indochina would becomplete without discovering thewonders of the famous AngkorWat complex and the lesserknown Ta Prohm (<strong>as</strong> seen in thefilm Tomb Raider). The 400 squarekm archaeological park is themost important site of its kind inSouthe<strong>as</strong>t Asia and a superb legacyof the Khmer Kingdom.Halong can you goBoard a traditional junk boatand cruise through the stunninglimestone peak-scattered watersof Vietnam’s iconic Halong Bay. Takethe plunge into the inviting waterand discover hidden caves packedwith stalactites and stalagmitesbefore spending the night onboard.Don’t miss SaigonExperience the hustle and bustle ofVietnam’s largest city Ho Chi Minh,formerly known <strong>as</strong> Saigon. A visitto the Cu Chi tunnels might not bea claustrophobe’s idea of fun butthey provide an intriguing insightinto guerrilla warfare during theVietnam War. In the evening, tuckinto a steaming bowl of Pho at oneof the city’s many enticing streetfoodstalls.River cruisingThe landlocked country of Laos isthe lesser visited of the Indochinafamily, the main highlight being thecity of Luang Prabang. The mightyMekong River is the lifeblood of thecountry and an ideal way to spenda day is to take a boat trip down it,gazing at the ancient temples thatdot the riverbank <strong>as</strong> you go.Time to relaxIf you’re looking to unwind at theend of an activity-packed trip toIndochina then head to Cambodia’speaceful, relatively unexploredco<strong>as</strong>t. The town of Sihanoukville isa great b<strong>as</strong>e from which to explorethe 60+ islands scenically placedupon sparkling blue waters just offthe mainland.BURMAVIENTIANECHINAPhongsalyLouangphabangLouangnamthaLAOSHeupPhônhôngLai ChâuSon LaXamNuaNôngHêtRed RiverYèn BaiBlack RiverVIENTIANEHa GiangGamBan LakxaoMekongHa NoiNam DinhMaCao BangThaiNguyênThanhHoaThakhekVinhHa TinhKanthabouliLang SonHai PhongThai BinhDông HoiGulf ofTonkingDông HaHuêDa NangPakxeC h a î n e A n m a n i t i q uHANOITHAILANDSalavanKôngQuy NhonQuang NgaiVIETNAMPHNOM PENHStoengTuy HoaSisophonTreng Buôn MaNhaThuôtTonléTrangBatdâmbang SapCAMBODIACamRanhPHNOMPhanPENHRangGulfKâmpongTay NinhofSpoeTakeoHô Chi MinhThailandChâu DôcVung TauSréngKâmpongSaômPônleyKâmpotLong XuyênRach GiaCa MauKrâchéhKâmpongChamCân ThoBac LièuMy ThoDa LatMouths ofthe MekongPhan ThiêtIndochina - Perfect ForFrom the relics of ancient tribes to the legacy of modern-day war, this regionwill keep history buffs enthralled at every turn. Food-lovers will delight in thevariety of regional cuisines, whilst those who like their scenery on a grandscale won’t fail to be impressed by the endless lush green landscapes.1954-57Vietnam split into Northand South; CommunistNorth begins insurgencyinto South1975Vietnamese war ends afterthe North takes Saigon, laterrenamed Ho Chi Minh City1975-76Khmer Rouge takes powerin Cambodia; Pol Potbecomes Prime Minister1994“Friendship Bridge” linkingLaos and Thailand is openedacross the Mekong1964US join the Vietnamesewar; by 1967 Americantroops number 500,0001975Communist LaoPeople’s Front seizespower in Laos1979Vietnamese forces flush KhmerRouge from Phnom Penh; anestimated 2 million Laotians losttheir lives under Khmer rule2007-2010Various Khmer Rougemembers go on trial fortheir roles in the genocide133Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
GrandIndochinaGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality15 daysGroup TourFully GuidedYear-round134Indochina is a tranquil haven of ancientcivilisations, vibrant cities and spectacularnatural beauty. Journey through Laos,Vietnam and Cambodia, from the ancienttemples of Angkor Wat and the emeraldwaters of Halong Bay to the bright lights of HoChi Minh and the vibrant markets of Hoi An.Day 1 Arrive Luang PrabangArrive in the former capital of Laos andtransfer to hotel to check in for 3 nights. Restof day free.Day 2 Luang PrabangVisit Luang Prabang Market followed by a citytour including the Former Royal Palace and thesacred Buddhist temples of Wat Xieng Thong,Wat Sen and Wat Visun. Rest of day free. (B)Day 3 Luang PrabangDay free at leisure. (B)Day 4 Luang Prabang to HanoiTransfer to airport for flight to Hanoi. Transfer tohotel and check in for 2 nights. Rest of day free. (B)Day 5 HanoiEnjoy a half-day city tour visiting the iconicOne Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literatureand the bustling Old Quarter. Rest of day freeor take an optional half-day tour to Bac Ninhfor a folk song performance. (B,L,D)Day 6 Hanoi to Halong BayDrive to Halong Bay and board a refurbishedjunk for a cruise of this spectacular karst bay.Enjoy a seafood lunch and swim (weatherpermitting) before dropping anchor for thenight. (B,L,D)Day 7 Halong Bay to HanoiCruise through the limestone cliffs and emeraldwaters of Halong Bay. Return to Hanoi stoppingen route at the Dong Trieu ceramic factory.Transfer to airport for flight to Danang. Transferto Hoi An and check into hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 8 Hoi AnHalf-day Hoi An tour visiting ancient merchants’houses, a Hokkien temple, a 400-year-oldJapanese Covered Bridge, the vibrant riversidemarket and a lantern workshop. Afternoon freeor take an optional half-day tour to the ruinsof My Son. (B)Day 9 Hoi An to HueDepart Hoi An for the ancient capital of Hue.Visit the elaborate tomb of Emperor Minh Mangbefore checking into the hotel for 1 night. Visitthe Imperial Citadel, built on the same principlesand design <strong>as</strong> Beijing’s Forbidden Palace.Proceed to the elegant Thien Mu Pagoda towitness a daily Buddhist prayer recital beforeenjoying a sunset cruise on the river. (B,L)Day 10 Hue to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)Transfer to airport for flight to Ho Chi MinhCity. On arrival, enjoy a brief orientationincluding the Notre Dame Cathedral andCentral Post Office. After lunch take a halfdaycity tour including Chinatown, Binh TayMarket and Thien Hau Temple. Check intohotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 11 Ho Chi Minh CityDay free at leisure. (B)Day 12 Ho Chi Minh City to Siem ReapMorning free before transfer to airport forflight to Siem Reap. Transfer to hotel andcheck in for 3 nights. In the afternoon, explorethe Khmer temples from the early Angkorperiod and visit the Roluos group of templesfrom the 9th and 10th centuries. (B)Day 13 Siem ReapExplore the ancient Angkor Complex, startingat Angkor Thom. Continue with the ruins atBayon, Baphoun, Phimeanak<strong>as</strong>, the RoyalPalace, the Elephant Terraces and the LeperKing Terrace. Visit the extraordinary AngkorWat before viewing a spectacular sunset fromthe top of Phnom Bakheng. (B)Day 14 Siem ReapDay free at leisure. (B)Day 15 Depart Siem ReapTransfer to airport for onward connections. (B)Prices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplement5 Jan, 2 Feb, 2 Mar ‘13£1645 £57513 Apr, 18 May, 15 Jun, 27 Jul , 24 Aug ,21 Sep ‘13 £1565 £48519 Oct, 16 Nov, 7 Dec ‘13£1565 £4854 Jan, 8 Feb, 11 Mar ‘14£1645 £575Prices include• Accommodation in 4-star hotels• Breakf<strong>as</strong>t and other meals wherespecified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Internal flight tickets in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s<strong>as</strong> specified• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide• Entrance fees in sightseeing toursPrices exclude• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor the best available prices• Cambodian, Laos and VietnameseVis<strong>as</strong> (see page 148 for details)• International departure tax in SiemReap (approx US$25 per person)• Lunch and dinner except wherespecifiedCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof VietnamGroup TourTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality9 daysGroup TourFully GuidedYear-roundBegin your journey in the bustling capitalof Hanoi before cruising among stunninglimestone karst scenery on a traditional junkon Halong Bay.Relax on the beaches of Hoi An and hit thehighlights of Ho Chi Minh City, where thehum of hundreds of motorcycles, the deliciousscents of street cooking and the colourful silkcreations are a fe<strong>as</strong>t for the senses.These are guaranteed departure tours operatedin conjunction with our Vietnamese partnersand are not exclusive to <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong>’ clients.They operate with a minimum of 2 persons anda maximum of 10 persons.Day 1 HanoiArrive Hanoi. Transfer to your hotel and checkin for 2 nights. Rest of day free to explore atleisure.Day 2 HanoiMorning Hanoi half-day city tour including theOne Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature andthe bustling Old Quarter. Afternoon free toexplore at leisure or to take optional half-dayexcursion to Bac Ninh to enjoy a performanceof local folk songs. (B)Day 3 Hanoi to Halong BayDrive to the spectacular Ha Long Bay andboard a refurbished wooden sailing junk for acruise through its limestone cliffs and emeraldwaters. Enjoy a seafood lunch and a spot ofswimming (weather permitting) before visitinga grotto and dropping anchor for an overnightstay onboard the junk. (B,L,D)Day 4 Halong Bay to Hoi AnSpend the morning cruising through newwaters, stopping to visit colourful grottoes.Return to Hanoi stopping en route at DongTrieu ceramics factory. Transfer to Hanoiairport for flight to Danang. On arrival,transfer to hotel in Hoi An and check in fortwo nights. Evening free to explore at leisure.(BRUNCH)Day 5 Hoi AnHalf-day Hoi An tour visiting ancientmerchants’ houses, a Hokkien temple, a400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge,the vibrant riverside market and a lanternworkshop. Afternoon free to explore atleisure or to take optional half-day tour tothe UNESCO-listed ruins of My Son. (B)Day 6 Hoi An to HueDepart Hoi An for the ancient capital of Hue.On arrival visit the tomb of Emperor MinhMang before checking into your hotel for 1night. In the afternoon, visit the spectacularImperial Citadel which w<strong>as</strong> built on the sameprinciples and design <strong>as</strong> Beijing’s ForbiddenPalace. Continue to the elegant Thien MuPagoda to witness a daily Buddhist prayerrecital by the monks before enjoying a sunsetcruise on the river back to hotel. (B)Day 7 Hue to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)Transfer to Hue airport for flight to Ho ChiMinh City. On arrival enjoy a brief orientationof the city including the Notre DameCathedral and Central Post Office. In theafternoon take a half-day city tour includingChinatown, Binh Tay Market and Thien HauTemple. Check in to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 8 Ho Chi Minh CityFree day in Ho Chi Minh City to explore atleisure or take optional half or full-day toursto the Cu Chi tunnels or Mekong Delta. (B)Day 9 Depart Ho Chi Minh CityTransfer to airport for your onward flight. (B)Prices from2013 Departures1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Jan5, 12, 19, 26 Feb5, 19, 26 Mar2, 16 Apr7, 21 May4, 18 Jun2, 16, 30 Jul13, 27 Aug10, 24 Sep1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Oct5, 12, 19, 26 Nov10, 17, 24, 31 Dec3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £785Single room supplement £2054-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £905Single room supplement £3802014 Departures7, 14, 21, 28 Jan4, 11, 18, 25 Feb4, 11, 18, 25 Mar3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £835Single room supplement £2054-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £950Single room supplement £380Prices include• Accommodation in 3 or 4-star hotels• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportation• Domestic flights in economy cl<strong>as</strong>sincluding taxes• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor the best available prices• Vietnamese Visa (see page 148)135Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlights ofVietnam andCambodiaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality12 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-round136Begin your journey in Vietnam’s bustlingcapital of Hanoi, and spend a day and nightcruising magnificent Halong Bay. Hit thehighlights of Ho Chi Minh City, and head out tothe floating markets of the Mekong Delta. Endthe tour in Siem Reap, your b<strong>as</strong>e for exploringthe incredible temple complexes of Angkor.Day 1 Depart UKFly to Vietnam.Day 2 Arrive HanoiArrive in Vietnam and transfer to your hotel.In the evening, watch a performance of therenowned water puppet theatre whoseorigins date back over a thousand years. (B)Day 3 HanoiEnjoy a full day discovering Hanoi’s illustrioushistory. In the morning, visit the Ho Chi MinhComplex containing his mausoleum and formerresidence and the One Pillar Pagoda followedby the Temple of Literature. In the afternoon,visit the Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts, HoanKiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple and the 36 streetsof the Old Quarter. Overnight in Hanoi. (B)Day 4 Hanoi to Halong BayDrive to Halong Bay and board a refurbished junkfor a cruise of this magnificent karst bay. Enjoya seafood lunch and swim (weather permitting)before dropping anchor for the night. (B,L,D)Day 5 Halong Bay to Ho Chi Minh CitySpend the morning cruising through HalongBay before returning to the wharf. Driveback to Hanoi stopping en route at a ceramicfactory. Transfer to airport for flight to Ho ChiMinh City. Transfer to the hotel and check infor 2 nights. (B)Day 6 Cu Chi TunnelsDrive to the remarkable Cu Chi tunnelsoutside Ho Chi Minh City. During the war VietCong guerrill<strong>as</strong> built the labyrinth of narrowtunnels using them to hide in during bombingraids and stage surprise attacks. Return to HoChi Minh City in the afternoon for a half-daycity tour including the Reunification Palace(photo-stop), Notre Dame Cathedral, CentralPost Office, Chinatown, Binh Tay Market andThien Hau Temple. (B)Day 7 Ho Chi Minh City to Tra OnDrive to Cai Be and take a boat to the floatingmarket to practise the age-old art of bartering.You will be supplied with sweets, sugar andmilk which you can then use to barter fordifferent kinds of local fruits. Continue byboat to a family-run business producing alocal version of popcorn and rice paper. Cruisethe tranquil waters stopping for brief walkingtours of riverside villages. Dock at Tra On foran overnight stay on board. (B)Day 8 Tra On to Ho Chi Minh CityTravel to Can Tho city and transfer to sampanto explore the colourful and bustling floatingmarket at Cai Rang. Later, cruise throughnarrow canals and stop at a fruit orchardto t<strong>as</strong>te some of the succulent fruits of theregion. Visit Binh Thuy ancient house beforereturning to Ho Chi Minh City. (B)Day 9 Ho Chi Minh City to Siem ReapTransfer to airport for flight to Siem Reap. Inthe afternoon, explore the Khmer templesfrom the early Angkor period, including PreahKo, Bakong, and Lolei temples dating from the9th and 10th centuries. Return to the hotelfor 3 nights. (B)Day 10 AngkorExplore the ancient Angkor Complex, starting atAngkor Thom. Continue with the ruins at Bayon,Baphoun, Phimeanak<strong>as</strong>, the Royal Palace, theElephant Terraces and the Leper King Terrace.In the afternoon visit the extraordinary AngkorWat before viewing a spectacular sunset fromthe top of Phnom Bakheng. (B)Day 11 AngkorContinue your Angkor exploration at thegraceful 11th century Temple of Shiva inBanteay Srei and the Banteay Samre Temple.On the way back, view the Bantey Kdei with itsrarely seen sculpted female deities, the Lakeof Srah Srang and the impressive Ta ProhmTemple, which is dramatically enveloped byjungle. Visit The Ta Keo, Chau Say Tevada,and Thommanon Temples before returningto hotel. Overnight in Siem Reap. (B)Day 12 Depart Siem ReapDay free (depending on time of flight) beforetransfer to airport for onward flight. (B)Prices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1315Single room supplement £3204-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1455Single room supplement £485Prices include• Accommodation in 3 or 4-star hotels• Breakf<strong>as</strong>t and other meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportation in airconditionedvehicles• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing tours,• Internal flight tickets in economy cl<strong>as</strong>s:Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City; Ho ChiMinh City to Siem ReapPrices exclude• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor the best available prices• Vietnam and Cambodia vis<strong>as</strong> (see page148)• International airport tax from SiemReap (approx US$25 per person)• Meals where not statedCall 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
MekongDeltaVietnam andCambodiaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality11 daysIndividual tourFully GuidedYear-roundDiscover the exotic Mekong Delta and thelives of the people who live and work on thisgreat waterway. Begin in Ho Chi Minh City,where the hum of thousands of motorcycles,the delicious scents of street cooking andthe colourful silk creations are a fe<strong>as</strong>t forthe senses, before moving on to the mightyMekong River and its tributaries where youwill visit floating markets and traditional homesto get a sense of everyday life on the river.Day 1 Arrive Ho Chi Minh CityArrive in Vietnam and transfer to your hotel.The rest of day is at leisure.Day 2 Ho Chi Minh CityAccompany a well-known Saigonese chef fora market tour of Ben Thanh market, then takea cooking cl<strong>as</strong>s instructed by the chef andlearn how to cook new dishes with your freshingredients. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-daycity tour to include the former PresidentialPalace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon PostOffice, Chinatown, Binh Tay Market and ThienHau Temple. (B)Day 3 Cu Chi Tunnelskey ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine. Lunchis on an island mid-river, in a local house setamongst fruit orchards and bonsai trees andthen followed by a performance of traditionalVietnamese music. Proceed to Can Tho toovernight. (B,L)Day 5 Can Tho to Chau DocStart early with an excursion to the CaiRang floating market and witness the localstrading on the water. Arrive at Chau Doc in theafternoon and drive up to the Sam mountainsummit to enjoy the sunset. (B)Day 6 Chau Doc to Phnom PenhTake the speedboat to Phnom Penh andtransfer to your hotel. The rest of the day isat leisure. (B)Day 7 Phnom PenhEnjoy a full day city tour including the NationalMuseum, the Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace,Wat Phnom and the Central Market. In theafternoon, visit the Tuol Sleng GenocideMuseum and the notorious Khmer RougeKilling Fields. (B)Day 10 Siem ReapVisit Kpal Spean and take a soft trek throughthe jungle to reach the river of a ThousandLing<strong>as</strong>. The ancient civilization at Angkorused this waterway for irrigation. Numerousb<strong>as</strong>-reliefs remain, <strong>as</strong> do the thousand ling<strong>as</strong>placed to bless the water before it ran downhillthrough the royal city. In the afternoon,proceed to the graceful Khmer Temple ofShiva at Banteay Srei that dates back to the11th century. Banteay Srei is a traditional localname and means “Citadel of Women”. The siteis covered in lavish decorations, friezes, andlintels, and marks the transition from early tolate Khmer art. (B)Day 11 Depart Siem ReapTransfer to the airport for onwardconnections. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1075Single room supplement £255Drive to the extraordinary Cu Chi tunnels,just outside the city. During the war forindependence, Viet Cong guerrill<strong>as</strong> builtthe labyrinth of narrow tunnels virtuallyunderneath U.S. b<strong>as</strong>es, using them to hideduring bombing raids and to stage surpriseattacks. (B)Day 4 Ho Chi Minh to Can ThoEnjoy a scenic morning drive to Cai Be,stopping en route at the ornate Cao DaiTemple in Ben Luc. From Cai Be, take a boattrip along the mighty Mekong River and itstributaries to view the daily lives of peoplewho work and play on the waterways of theMekong Delta. The trip includes a visit to theunique floating market at Cai Be, and to afamily-run business producing rice paper - aDay 8 Phnom Penh to Siem ReapTransfer to the airport for the flight to SiemReap. On arrival, enjoy a boat trip in themighty Tonle Sap or “Great Lake” to witnessthe f<strong>as</strong>cinating bird life and human activity onthe lake’s shores. (B)Day 9 AngkorVisit Angkor Thom (13th century), includingthe South Gate, the Bayon, The Terrace ofthe Elephants and The Terrace of the LeperKing and finishing at the Royal Enclosure.Then, proceed to the Ta Prohm temple whichis dramatically enveloped by jungle. In theafternoon, visit the epic Angkor Wat, viewingits well-known architecture and b<strong>as</strong>-relief.Overnight Siem Reap. (B)Prices include• Accommodation in 3-star hotels• Breakf<strong>as</strong>t and meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees and boat trips onsightseeing toursPrices exclude• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor the best available prices.• International airport tax in Siem Reap(approx US$25 per person)• Cambodian and Vietnamese Vis<strong>as</strong>(see page 148)137Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Cambodiaand LaosDiscoveryTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality13 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-round138Discover the Southe<strong>as</strong>t Asian gems ofCambodia and Laos on this new itinerarywhich combines comprehensive sightseeing inPhnom Penh and Siem Reap with several daysin the laid-back cities of Vientiane and LuangPrabang. Delight in the jungle-clad templesof Angkor, travel p<strong>as</strong>t lush countryside andrice paddies on the bamboo train and reflecton a tragic p<strong>as</strong>t at the infamous Killing Fields.Day 1 Arrive Siem ReapArrive in Cambodia and transfer to hotel for4 nights. Rest of day free.Day 2 Siem ReapVisit 13th century Angkor Thom includingthe South Gate, the Bayon, The Terrace ofthe Elephants and The Terrace of the LeperKing, finishing at the Royal Enclosure. In theafternoon, visit epic Angkor Wat. (B)Day 3 Siem ReapTravel to the graceful Khmer Temple ofShiva, Bantey Srei with its rarely seensculpted female deities. Afterwards, visitthe impressive Ta Prohm Temple, which isdramatically enveloped by jungle. (B)Day 4 Siem ReapDay free to explore at leisure. (B)Day 5 Siem Reap to BattambangDrive to Battambang, Cambodia’s secondlargestcity, founded in the 11th century. Visitthe provincial museum and drive along thepicturesque Sangker River to visit Wat EkPhnom. In the afternoon, visit the PhnomSampeau and Phnom Banon, most notablefor its five sandstone towers standing on topof a hill. Overnight in Battambang. (B)Day 6 Battambang to Phnom PenhTransfer to the Bamboo Train station. Travel8km on this very b<strong>as</strong>ic train, p<strong>as</strong>sing throughbeautiful landscapes of lush fields and ricepaddies. On arrival, visit the village anddiscover more about life in rural Cambodia.Stop at a woodcarving workshop, visit a localNGO and see beautiful colonial houses. Headto Phnom Penh and transfer to the hotel for2 nights. Rest of day free. (B)Day 7 Phnom PenhEnjoy a full day city tour including the NationalMuseum, the Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace,Wat Phnom and the Central Market. In theafternoon, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museumand the notorious Khmer Rouge Killing Fields. (B)Day 8 Phnom Penh to VientianeTransfer to the airport for the flight to Vientiane.On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Rest of dayfree. (B)Day 9 VientianeHalf-day tour including visits to the majortemples of Vientiane including the oldest,Wat Sisaket, and the former royal temple ofWat Prakeo. Also visit a Lao national icon,That Luang Stupa, and stop to take picturesof the imposing Patuxay Monument. Rest ofday free. (B)Day 10 Vientiane to Luang PrabangTransfer to airport for the flight to LuangPrabang. On arrival, transfer to the hotel.Rest of day free. (B)Day 11 Luang PrabangEmbark on a Mekong River cruise throughtranquil countryside to the mysterious PakOu Caves. Stop at the rice wine-producingvillage of Ban Xanghai. On the return journey,visit traditional villages including Ban Phanom,known for its hand weaving. In the afternoonvisit the Royal Palace Museum and themagnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofssweeping low to the ground, typical of cl<strong>as</strong>sicalLaotian architecture. There is also time to visitthe stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrines of WatAham and Wat Mai. (B)Day 12 Luang PrabangAn optional early start offers a fant<strong>as</strong>ticopportunity to participate in the daily morningrituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offeringsof Alms (ubiquitous sticky rice) from the faithfulresidents. From here, visit the morning PhosiMarket where you will see such diverse offerings<strong>as</strong> dried buffalo skin, local tea and saltpetreamong the chickens, vegetables and hill-tribeweavings. Also enjoy a visit to a local village ofLao ethnic minority groups at Ban Ouay and BanThapene. Return to Luang Prabang and continueto Ban Phanom, a well-known weaving villagebefore returning to the city by late evening forwatching the sunset at Wat Siphouthabath. (B)Day 13 Luang PrabangTransfer to the airport for the departureflight. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £1525Single Room Supplement £380Prices include• Accommodation in standard hotels• Breakf<strong>as</strong>t and other meals <strong>as</strong> specified• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees and boat trips onsightseeing toursPrices exclude• International flights - ple<strong>as</strong>e contact usfor the best available prices.• International airport tax in Siem Reap(approx US$25 per person)• Cambodia and Laos Vis<strong>as</strong> (see page148)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
ResponsibleTravelCambodiaTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality14 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-roundThis tour shows you a different side ofCambodia, with an opportunity to experiencefirst-hand the wonderful work being done bysome of the charitable organisations in thisfriendly country with a tragic p<strong>as</strong>t.Day 1 Arrive Phnom PenhArrive in Cambodia and check into hotelfor 3 nights. Explore the stunning RoyalPalace complex and the National Museumwhich houses the world’s finest collection ofsculptures from the Angkor period.Day 2 Phnom PehnDay 7 Sihanoukville to BattambangVisit the Dreamcatcher Children’s hamletwhich works to provide a safe environmentand schooling for disadvantaged children.Head to Battambang and check into hotelfor 2 nights. (B)Day 8 BattambangTravel to Wat Koh district and board thelocal bamboo train, visiting the Wat Banatemple and the sacred Phnom Sampeau. Inthe evening, meet circus performers from thePhare Ponleu Selpak. (B)walled city of Angkor Thom and the enchantingtemple of the Bayon. Transfer to airport for theflight to Phnom Penh and overnight stay. (B)Day 14 Siem Reap to Phnom PenhVisit the floating village of Chong Kne<strong>as</strong>on Tonle Sap Lake, stopping at the GeckoEnvironment Centre. Returning to Siem Reap,enjoy an optional m<strong>as</strong>sage with the SeeingHands cooperative who employ blind andvisually impaired m<strong>as</strong>seurs, before transferringto the airport for your departure flight. (B)Reflect on the tragic events that engulfedCambodia at Tuol Sleng ‘The Museum ofTorture’. Lunch at PSE, an NGO supportingstreet children, then continue to Wat Phnom.(B,L)Day 3 Phnom PenhMeet shadow puppet m<strong>as</strong>ter Mann Kosalat his studio and learn how to make shadowpuppets. (B)Day 4 Phnom Penh to SihanoukvilleVisit the New Hope for Cambodian Children’svillage to see their work in providing a caringcommunity for orphans living with HIV andAIDS. Continue to Sihanoukville and checkinto hotel for 3 nights. (B,L)Day 5 SihanoukvilleVisit two organisations working to providea better future for local children; M’LopTapang works to provide education, whilst theCambodian Children’s Painting Project makeart their focus. Lunch at the Starfish Bakeryand learn how they support underprivilegedchildren. (B,L)Day 6 SihanoukvilleFree day at leisure to enjoy beaches. (B)Day 9 Battambang to Banteay ChhmarExplore the incredible jungle temple ofBanteay Chhmar before spending the nightin a luxury tent. (B,L,D)Day 10 Banteay ChhmarFree time to explore Banteay Chhmar thenvisit the Artisans d’Angkor silk weaving projectand a working silk farm before transferring toSiem Reap for 4 nights. (B)Day 11 Siem ReapExplore Lolei, Preah Ko and mountain templeBakong. Visit the Soul of Cambodia workshopwhich provides disadvantaged women withthe skills to produce woven goods. See PreahKhan temple and the elegant Neak Poan. (B)Day 12 Siem ReapTravel to Ta Prohm, see the giant pyramid ofTakeo and the remains of an old Angkorianbridge. Lunch at the Sala Bai hotel andrestaurant school which trains disadvantagedyoung people in the hospitality industry. VisitBanteay Srei temple, the Cambodia LandmineMuseum and Banteay Samre temple and enjoya dance performance by a local orphanage. (B,L)Day 13 Siem Reap to Phnom PenhSpend the day at Angkor Wat. Visit the GermanApsara Conservation Project, the immensePrices fromDeparture Per person Single roomdates twin-share supplementJan – Mar £2180 £430Apr – Sep £2165 £415Oct - Dec £2210 £460Prices include• 3-star hotel accommodation withbreakf<strong>as</strong>t• 1 night temple safari at BanteayChhmar• Services of a local English-speakingguide• Entrance fees and sightseeing• All transfers & transportation byprivate air-conditioned car• Internal flight between Siem Reapand Phnom Penh• Meals <strong>as</strong> specified• Donation feesPrices exclude• International flights – ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for best available prices• Optional tours• Cambodia visa (see page 148)Notes• Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that the itinerary may besubject to change at short notice dueto local conditions.139Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Myanmar(Burma)The Inside StoryRelatively untouched by tourism, Myanmar is a hiddengem nestled between India, China and Southe<strong>as</strong>t Asia.Years of being cut off from the outside world means thatthis newly emerging democracy appears to be lost in time;men dressed in longyis stroll colonial boulevards, ancienttemples punctuate city skylines and untouched countrysiderolls into hill tribe villages.With Myanmar now welcoming respectful tourists, myriadtre<strong>as</strong>ures await. Watch the sun set over 2,000 silhouettedstup<strong>as</strong> in Bagan, follow Buddhist pilgrims to the glitteringShwedagon Pagoda, shop for handicrafts in Bogyoke AungSan Market and sail p<strong>as</strong>t Inle Lake’s traditional stiltedvillages in the Land of Golden Pagod<strong>as</strong>.Traditional, spiritual and hospitable, the jovial populationare determined to show visitors what life is like in Myanmarbeyond the headlines. The Burmese language h<strong>as</strong> no wordfor ‘tourist’, just ‘guest’.Storyto tell -CarlMeadowsWhy I loveMyanmarFor me, Myanmaroffers the purest travelexperience in all ofAsia. I love the pristinelandscapes and warmsmiles, mixed with afant<strong>as</strong>tic architecturalheritage of Buddhistand colonial influences.The temples ofBagan never fail toamaze me and theShwedagon Pagod<strong>as</strong>hould be on everytraveller’s mustseelist.100 BCPyu people settlein northern Myanmar11th-13th COver 10,000 Buddhist temples,pagod<strong>as</strong> and mon<strong>as</strong>teriesconstructed in Bagan1886Burma becomes British colonyand province of British India1945The British and Aung San’santi-f<strong>as</strong>cist People’s FreedomLeague liberate Burma1057King Anawrahta founds firstunified Burmese state at Paganand adopts Theravada Buddhism1421Italian merchant, Nicola deConti, becomes first Europeanto reach Myanmar1942-45F<strong>as</strong>cist Japan occupiesBurma during WWII
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in MyanmarBalloons over BaganPerhaps the best time to visitBagan is between October andMarch, when it’s possible to taketo the skies on a hot air balloon ride.Soaring high over Bagan at sunrise,with the thousands of stup<strong>as</strong>,pagod<strong>as</strong> and temples sprawling outbeneath you, is a unique and trulyunforgettable experience.Echoes of an EmpireBritain’s 120-year rule over Burmaended in 1948 but, the countryretains a strong sense of itscolonial heritage. Yangon, formerlyRangoon, contains hundreds ofwell-preserved Victorian andEdwardian buildings, including thefamous teak Pegu Club, providing aglimpse into a long-gone era.Say a little prayerMyanmar is an intensely spiritualplace and visitors often findthemselves leaving with their eyesopened and horizons broadened.To experience Buddhism at itsmost powerful head to the formercapital, Amarapura, which is hometo the m<strong>as</strong>sive Mahagandayonmon<strong>as</strong>tery. There, you will have thechance to attend the daily meal ofover a thousand monks and witnesstheir peaceful and sacred routines.Life on the lakeAn undoubted highlight of any tourto Myanmar is a boat trip on theserene Inle Lake. Sail p<strong>as</strong>t stiltedvillages delicately perched abovethe water, observe the lake’s uniqueleg-rowing fishermen tending totheir floating gardens and join thelocals shopping for fresh produceat bustling water markets.CelebrationsMyanmar overflows with colourfulpageantry during the autumnmonths. Make sure to catch thePhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festivalat Inle Lake, where you will seea flotilla of specially decorated,traditional leg-rowing Yar Kyawboats transporting holy Buddhaimages to the pagoda backed bya cacophony of sound and dance.NAYPYIDAWBANGLA-DESHINDIAMinbuSittweRamree I.Cheduba I.SandowayChin HillsChindwinHakhaSagaingArakan YomaHinthadaKalay-waPatheinPhyarponIrrawaddyMyitkyinaMYANMARPyePeguMouths of tjeIrrawaddyYangonMandalayMyingyanNaypyidawAndaman SeaSittrongKumon RangeYaoTaunggyiTHAILANDThatonHpa-anYeLoikawTaungooGulf ofMartabanSalweenTavoyGaoligong ShanMonghpyakMawlamyaingMekongCHINALAOSBilauktaung RangeMyeikMerguiArchipelagoGulf ofThailandMyanmar - Perfect ForFor travellers looking to experience Southe<strong>as</strong>t Asia <strong>as</strong> it w<strong>as</strong> before m<strong>as</strong>stourism, Myanmar promises to deliver with an intoxicating combination ofancient culture and timeless landscapes. Fans of religious architecture willfall in love with the abundance of ancient temples, pagod<strong>as</strong> and stup<strong>as</strong>, whilethose with a penchant for heights can enjoy an unforgettable hot air balloonride over Bagan.1962Government overthrownin a military coup by thesocialist junta1989Aung San SuuKyi placed underhouse arrest2007Government cracks downon m<strong>as</strong>s demonstrationsled by Buddhist monks2012NLD win many parliamentaryseats in landmark byelections;The EU suspendsall non-military sanctions1948Brief period of democracyafter gaining independencefrom British1988Thousands lose their lives in antigovernmentriots; Aung San SuuKyi becomes leader of NLD1990NLD wins in nationalelection but junta refuseto cede power2010Aung San Suu Kyi rele<strong>as</strong>edfrom house arrest141Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
ExploreMyanmarGroup TourTour durationHoliday type17 daysGroup TourFully GuidedDeparture 1-17 Nov 2013142This new tour to Myanmar explores thecountry’s most popular sights but also headsoff the beaten track to the often overlookedcities and towns of Pyay, Kalaw and Pindaya.Travelling overland by private vehicle, you willexperience rural life in the smaller villages <strong>as</strong>you p<strong>as</strong>s through.Day 1-2 Fly to MyanmarDepart UK for Yangon via Kuala Lumpur.Arrive next day and check into hotel for 2nights. Free afternoon before an eveningwelcome dinner. (D)Day 3 YangonFull-day tour of the colonial former capital.Visit Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda, Little India andChinatown. Free time at Bogyoke Market thenvisit to Shwedagon Pagoda. (B,L,D)Day 4 Yangon to PyayTravel to Pyay and check into hotel for 2 nightsbefore dinner in a local restaurant. (B,L,D)Day 5 PyayDiscover Pyay’s colourful market and ShweSandaw Pagoda before visiting the ancientruins of Sriketra. Evening visit to the bustlingnight market. (B,L,D)Day 6 Pyay to BaganContinue to Bagan through scenic landscapesand palm fields. Check into hotel for 2 nights.(B,L,D)Day 7 BaganVisit Pone Temple, Ananda Temple, MyinkabaVillage and Gubyaukgyi Temple. Board aprivate river boat to see life on the Irrawaddy.Stop at a typical riverside village and continueto Kyauk Gu U Min Temple. (B,L,D)OPTIONAL EXTRA: A magnificent sunrise tripby hot air balloon over Bagan. Due to popularity,we recommend reserving this excursion at timeof booking.Day 8 Bagan to MandalayTravel to Mandalay, stopping at Popa laan villageen route. Continue to Mt Popa with its shrineat the top of Taung Kalat. Arrive Mandalay andcheck into hotel for 3 nights. (B,L,D)Day 9 MandalayExplore the old royal capital includingMahamuni Pagoda. Tour traditional workshopsand the Shwenandaw Mon<strong>as</strong>tery beforeheading up Mandalay Hill for sunset views.(B,L,D)Day 10 MandalayExplore Sagaing Hill, the old wooden BagayaMon<strong>as</strong>tery at Ava and the remains of the RoyalPalace. Continue to Mahagandayon mon<strong>as</strong>terywhere over 1,000 monks reside and walk the200-year-old U Bein Bridge. (B,L,D)Day 11 Mandalay to KalawDrive to Kalaw, once a British hill station,surrounded by hill tribe villages. Check intothe hotel for 1 night. Free time. (B,L,D)Day 12 Kalaw to PindayaVisit Kalaw’s colourful morning market andthe famous, Buddha-strewn Pindaya Caves.Visit a local umbrella workshop and check intohotel for 1 night. (B,L,D)Day 13 Pindaya to Inle LakeHead to Nyaung Shwe and board a boat forsightseeing on the lake. P<strong>as</strong>s villages builton stilts over the water and observe theleg-rowing fishermen <strong>as</strong> they tend to theirfloating gardens. Visit the Nga Hpe ChaungMon<strong>as</strong>tery, famous for its jumping cats,Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the weaving villageof Inpawkhone and a cheroot factory. Transferto hotel for 2 nights. (B,L,D)Day 14 Inle LakeTake a boat trip to the morning market on the lakeshore. From here, continue to Indein and wanderthrough the beautiful Alaung Sitthou area. (B,L,D)Day 15 Inle Lake to YangonTransfer to airport for flight to Yangon. Returnto your hotel, rest of day free before farewelldinner. (B,D)Day 16-17 Yangon to UKTransfer to airport for flight back to the UK,arriving the next day. (B)Prices fromPer person twin-share £3780Single room supplement £745Prices include• International flights with MalaysianAirways via Kuala Lumpur in economycl<strong>as</strong>s• All airport taxes and security charges• Hotel accommodation on a full boardb<strong>as</strong>is• All transfers and transportation inprivate air-conditioned vehicle• Internal flights within Myanmar• Sightseeing with English-speakingguide throughout• Entrance fees and boat trips onsightseeing toursPrices exclude• International airport departure tax(approx US$10pp)• Myanmar Visa (see page 148)• Visits not mentioned in the itinerary• Optional Bagan balloon ride(approx £240pp)Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Highlightsof MyanmarTour durationHoliday typeSe<strong>as</strong>onality12 daysIndividual TourFully GuidedYear-round(itinerary changesMay-Oct)Myanmar is truly the undiscovered gem ofSouthe<strong>as</strong>t Asia. Long cut off from the outsideworld, this stunning country h<strong>as</strong> an unspoilt,spiritual air about it. Stand on the roof ofan ancient ruined temple overlooking theIrrawaddy River in Bagan, visit the bustlingNyaugng Oo Market and let the women puttannika on your face to protect you from thesun or enjoy a leisurely boat trip along InleLake. A visit to Myanmar will be arguablyone of the most fulfilling holidays you’ll everexperience.Day 1 YangonArrive Yangon and transfer to hotel for 1 night.Full-day tour including Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda’s70m long reclining Buddha, downtownYangon with its grand colonial buildings andMyanmar’s holiest monument, the goldenShwedagon Pagoda.Day 2 Yangon to BaganFly to Bagan – one of the most remarkablearchaeological sites in Asia. Afternoon tourbefore transferring to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 3 BaganContinue tour of Bagan including theNyaugng Oo Market, the Shwezigon Pagoda,a cave temple and the elegant HtilominloTemple before a sunset cruise on theIrrawaddy River. (B)Day 4 Bagan to Mt. Popa and MandalayTransfer to Mt. Popa and visit the shrinededicated to the worship of the 37 Nats.Continue to Mandalay and transfer to hotelfor 3 nights. (B)Day 5 MandalayCity tour including a visit to the MahamuniPagoda, famous for its venerable gold leafstatue of Buddha, the Kuthodaw Pagodawith its 729 marble stone slabs of Buddhistscriptures and Shwenandaw Mon<strong>as</strong>tery,noted for its exquisite woodcarvings. (B)Day 6 MandalayVisit the 18th century capital, Amarapuraand attend the daily meal of over a thousandmonks at the country’s largest mon<strong>as</strong>tery,Mahagandayon. Continue to Sagaing,covered with 600 white-painted pagod<strong>as</strong> andmon<strong>as</strong>teries. Home to 3,000 monks, SagaingHill is widely regarded <strong>as</strong> the religious centreof Myanmar. (B)Day 7 Mandalay to Inle LakeFly to Heho and enjoy a scenic drive to InleLake. Arrive at Nyaung Shwe village andtransfer by boat to start a sightseeing tourof Inle Lake. Transfer to hotel for 2 nights. (B)Day 8 Inle LakeVisit the market at Nampan then transfer toIn Dein. From the marketplace of a small PaO tribe village, follow an old covered path toa 13th century mon<strong>as</strong>tery and the ruins ofhundreds of ancient pagod<strong>as</strong>. (B)Day 9 Inle Lake to NgapaliContinue tour of Inle Lake including visits tosome of its floating villages, Phaung Daw OoPagoda, the weaving village of Inpawkhon andthe jumping cat mon<strong>as</strong>tery. Fly to Thandweand transfer to hotel in Ngapali for 3 nights. (B)Day 10 NgapaliSpend the next 2 days in the Bay of Bengal inthe charming fishing village of Ngapali withits beautiful beach and abundance of coconuttrees. (B)Day 11 NgapaliDay free to explore at leisure. (B)Day 12 Ngapali to YangonTransfer to airport for flight to Yangon. (B)Prices from3-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1595Single room supplement £4404-star hotel optionPer person twin-share £1940Single room supplement £760Prices include• Accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotelswith breakf<strong>as</strong>t• All transfers and transportationthroughout• Domestic flight tickets in economycl<strong>as</strong>s including taxes <strong>as</strong> specified• Sightseeing with English-speakingguides• Entrance fees on sightseeing toursPrices exclude• International flights – ple<strong>as</strong>e contactus for the best available prices• International airport departure tax(approx US$10pp)• Myanmar Visa (see page 148)Notes• Ple<strong>as</strong>e note that during May toOctober the beach stay at Ngapali isnot possible due to weather conditions.Therefore, on day 9 the tour goes fromInle Lake to Yangon for an overnightstay and then finishes on day 10.Ple<strong>as</strong>e contact us for prices during thisperiod.143Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
CubaThe Inside StoryIn 1975 <strong>Regent</strong> w<strong>as</strong> one of the first companies to offergroup tours to a very underdeveloped Cuba. Back then, thelack of international visitors and a turbulent history meantthat holiday-makers required a real sense of adventure.While much h<strong>as</strong> changed, much h<strong>as</strong> also stayed the sameand a large part of the joy of travelling in Cuba comes fromembracing a nation frozen in time. In 2013 we’re back withan exciting new range of group tours and fly-drives.From Afro-Cuban culture to World Heritage cities andendless verdant landscapes, Cuba buzzes with an air ofrhythm and revolution. American cars from its 1950sheyday line the city streets, while palm trees fringe whitesand Caribbean beaches and Communist ideals mix withLatin spirit.Whether you want to wander the atmospheric streetsof Havana’s Old City, discover the tobacco plantationsand cigar factories of rural Vinales, admire the colourfulcolonial buildings of Trinidad or tap your feet to a salsa beatin Santiago de Cuba, now is the time to visit before tourismlaunches Cuba into the 21st Century.Storyto tell -ChristinaGibbonsWhy I loveCubaI loved watching clappedout1950s Cadillacscruising p<strong>as</strong>t crumblingcolonial buildings inHavana. My favouritespot to watch the worldgo by is the Malecón,the broad esplanadestretching 4 miles alongthe co<strong>as</strong>t, wherethe buildings tella 50 year historyfrom end to end,and locals cometo socialise or fishfrom the sea wall.1492Christopher Columbusdiscovers Cuba andclaims it for Spain1878Ten year War ofIndependence endsin a truce1902Cuba gains Independencealthough still under USprotection1933Fulgencio Batista topplesgovernment in ‘Sergeants’Revolt’1959C<strong>as</strong>tro and Guevaraoverthrow governmentwith guerrilla army1762British capture Havana;returned the followingyear in the Treaty of Paris1892US defeat Spain in SecondWar of Independence andtake Cuba1925Socialist Party founded,forming b<strong>as</strong>is ofCommunist Party1953Fidel C<strong>as</strong>tro leadsunsuccessful revoltagainst Batista regime
Days like theseOur recommendations for the perfect holiday in CubaRevolutionary CubaFly-Drive14 days from £2345ppDays 1-2 - HavanaVisit Revolution Square and theMuseum of the Revolution. Lunchat one of Fidel’s favourite haunts andstay at Hotel Tryp Habana Libre (4*),the first seat of the revolutionarygovernment in 1959.Days 3-4 - Bay of Pigsto TrinidadVisit the Che Guevara monumentand mausoleum in Santa Clara andenjoy a full day in the UNESCOWorld Heritage City of Trinidad,with its colourful colonial buildings.Day 5 - Trinidad to HavanaVisit the Tren Blindado monument,the l<strong>as</strong>t attempt of Batista to stopthe rebels on their way to Havana,and Hotel Nacional, a protectednational monument and symbol ofpre-revolutionary times.Days 6-7 - Havana toSantiagoDiscover Santiago’s C<strong>as</strong>a de laTrova where many famous Cubanmusicians started their careers.Visit the Moncada Barracks, whichwere attacked by Fidel and hismen in 1953 and the famous SantaIfigenia Cemetery.Days 8-9 - Santo Domingoto NiqueroTravel to the Sierra Escambrayand hike through beautiful sceneryto the Comandancia de la Plata,Fidel’s secret headquarters in themountains.Days 10-11 - Niquero& BayamoVisit L<strong>as</strong> Colorad<strong>as</strong>, the swampswhere Fidel and his men landed in1956. In Manzanillo, see the houseof Celiz Sanchez one of Fidel’s mostloyal aides during the revolution.Days 12-14 - Bayamoto HavanaReturn to Havana for an excursionto “Cueva de los Portales”, CheGuevara’s cave headquarters duringthe inv<strong>as</strong>ion of the Bay of Pigs in 1961.HAVANAYucatanChannelGulf of MexicoAtlanticOceanArchipiélagoHAVANA Matanz<strong>as</strong> de SabanaMariel Guines Cárden<strong>as</strong>Min<strong>as</strong> de ArtemisaJovellanos IsabelaMatahambreArchipiélagoSurgidero de Colónde SaguaPinar delde CamagüeyArroyosRío BatabanóSta. Clara Caibariénde MantuaBatabanóGulfLa Fe GuaneCienfuegos SanctiNuevaMorónSpiritusGerona Ciego de ÁviaLa FeCubaCayoFlorida Nuevit<strong>as</strong>Isla de la LargoJuventudArchipiélago CamagüeyPuerto Padrede los JardinesL<strong>as</strong> Tun<strong>as</strong> Banesde La Reina AmancioMayariMoaManzanillo Bayamo Palma BaracoaCaribbean SeaSoriano GuantánamoPilónSantiagode Cuba aSierraMaestraWindwurdP<strong>as</strong>sageCuba - Perfect ForTravellers who enjoy a mix of culture and relaxation will find Cuba an idealdestination; where else can you combine a revolutionary trail with Caribbeansunshine? Those wanting to experience communism in action need look nofurther than the crumbling streets of Havana, while holiday-makers lookingfor a rural escape will delight in the beautiful karst valleys of Viñales whichare home to many endemic plants and birds.1962Cuban Missile Crisis:C<strong>as</strong>tro allows USSR todeploy nuclear missiles1982Cuba sides with Argentinain its dispute with Britainover the Falkland islands1996US make tradeembargo permanent2008Fidel C<strong>as</strong>tro stands downand younger brother Raulbecomes president1961C<strong>as</strong>tro proclaims Cubacommunist state andallies with USSR1975<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> launch firstgroup tours to Cuba1991Soviet military advisersleave Cuba followingcollapse of USSR2002Guantanamo Baybecomes b<strong>as</strong>e forinterrogating Afghanal-Qaeda suspects2011Barack Obama relaxesUS restrictions ontravel to Cuba145Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Discover Icelandwith <strong>Regent</strong>Reykjavik city breaksNorthern LightsWinter adventuresRemote experiencesTailor-madeFly-drivesGroup toursRomantic breaksTo order a <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> Iceland andGreenland brochure or to speak to a specialistcall 020 7666 1290www.regentholidays.co.uk
Booking Conditions<strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> specialise in holidays to ‘unusual destinations’, many of which still remain relatively underdeveloped andwithout the facilities and service levels found in West European countries. We do our best to provide exactly what ourcustomers order. We must point out that this type of holiday necessarily carries a risk that accommodation, transportationschedules and other parts of the holiday will be subject to alterations beyond our control and occurring at a short notice. Theymay also be of a standard lower than you may expect, despite our best efforts to portray the product correctly. We regard this<strong>as</strong> a necessary feature of our holidays, but we recognise that some travellers would prefer a more ‘conventional’ packageholiday and so we <strong>as</strong>k that you consider this before booking. When you book with <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> we will do our best toprovide you with the holiday that you booked in every detail, but you must accept that changes may occur and standards maydiffer and local difficulties which are outside of our control may arise.Ple<strong>as</strong>e read these Terms & Conditions carefully. They contain important information about your holiday contract.1. CONTRACTYour contract is with Western and Oriental Travel Limited trading <strong>as</strong> Western & Oriental, 4 Red Lion Court, Alexandra Road,Hounslow, TW3 1JS, referred to <strong>as</strong> “we” or “us” in this contract. A binding contract is only entered into when we issue aconfirmation invoice. By contacting us and/or your travel agent to make a booking, you accept that you have the authority tobind all members of your party to these terms and conditions. It is essential that you check the travel details on theconfirmation invoice and inform us immediately of any errors. Your booking is also subject to the conditions of carriage of yourchosen airline.2. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTIONWhen you buy a holiday package from us, we are required to provide security for the monies that you pay for the packageholidays booked from this brochure and ensure that your money is refunded or that you are repatriated in the unlikely event ofour insolvency.All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you willbe supplied with an ATOLCertificate. Ple<strong>as</strong>e <strong>as</strong>k for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and otherservices) is listed on it. Ple<strong>as</strong>e see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financialprotection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLcertificate3. ABTAWe are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y1152. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you byABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of this contract.The scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It is a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration ondocuments alone with restricted liability on you for costs. The upper limit on claims is £5,000 per person and £25,000 perbooking form. The scheme doesn’t apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or theirconsequences. It can however deal with claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received byABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTAMediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s <strong>as</strong>sistance inresolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com.4. PAYMENT FOR YOUR HOLIDAYA deposit of £250 per person or 10% of the total holiday price (whichever is greater) is required at the time of booking. Wereserve the right to vary the deposit <strong>as</strong> appropriate. The balance is due eight weeks prior to departure. If the booking is madeless than eight weeks before departure, the full amount is due on booking. If any balance remains unpaid, traveldocumentation will not be issued and we reserve the right to treat your booking <strong>as</strong> cancelled and apply the cancellation chargeset out below. Final travel documents will usually be sent out approximately two weeks before departure. All money paid to atravel agent will be held by the agent on our behalf. Payment must be in the currency of the invoice and you are responsiblefor bank charges. If you choose to pay the balance of your holiday by credit card a 2.5% levy will be charged. No charge islevied for payment by debit card. In some c<strong>as</strong>es quotations will be b<strong>as</strong>ed on instant purch<strong>as</strong>e, limited availability nonrefundable airfares and full payment of the total holiday cost must be made at the time of booking. Full details will be given atthe time of enquiry.5. INFORMATIONWhilst we make every effort to ensure that the information in our brochure is <strong>as</strong> accurate <strong>as</strong> possible, it is published manymonths before your holiday takes place. We reserve the right to make changes to the brochure and any information it contains.You will be informed of any material changes before booking. Western and Oriental Travel Limited are only responsible forinformation contained within our own publications and websites. We are specifically not responsible for third party information(from tourist boards and hotels for example) contained in any other brochures or websites.6. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY YOU(A) AMENDMENTWe will do our best to <strong>as</strong>sist you in altering your arrangements after booking but cannot guarantee this will be possible. Ifalterations can be made you will be responsible for all extra charges and costs and we reserve the right to charge a £50administration fee per person plus any applicable charges levied by our suppliers. We also reserve the right to treat anyamendment less than eight weeks prior to departure <strong>as</strong> a cancellation and apply the cancellation charges set out below.(B) CANCELLATIONAll cancellations must be made in writing by the person who made the booking and are effective on the day we receive it.As we incur substantial costs and losses on a cancellation, we will apply the following cancellation charges:Number of days prior to departureCancellation charge <strong>as</strong> percentage whencancellation notice received of total holiday priceUp to 56 daysForfeit deposit55-43 Days 50%42-31 Days 75%30 Days or less 100%The penalties are in addition to the non-refundable elements of the booking which have been contracted on your behalf andnotified to you.Agents or third party organisations acting on our behalf are unable to amend or change the contract or terms and conditionswithin it.7. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY US(A) AMENDMENTSIt is occ<strong>as</strong>ionally necessary for us to make changes to advertised products and services and we reserve the right to make suchchanges. In exceptional circumstances we may have to modify your holiday after booking. If the change is minor we will do ourbest to notify you in advance but are not obliged to do so and no compensation is payable. If the change is material (for example,a change of flight time by more than 12 hours, change of destination or to a lower standard of accommodation), we will notifyyou <strong>as</strong> soon <strong>as</strong> practically possible and offer you the choice of (i) accepting the alternative arrangements or (ii) arranging analternative holiday with us or (iii) cancelling your holiday. Whichever option you choose, we will pay you compensation unless thechange h<strong>as</strong> been caused by force majeure or low bookings <strong>as</strong> defined below.Days before departureCompensation per person57 Nil56-29 £4028-15 £5014-0 £70(B) CHANGES DURING THE HOLIDAYIf we are unable to provide a significant proportion of your holiday whilst you are away, suitable alternative arrangements willbe made for you at no extra cost or, alternatively, you will be returned to your point of departure and given a pro-rata refund forany part of the holiday not received. This does not apply to minor changes in your accommodation, itinerary or transportation.(C) CANCELLATION BY USWhilst we hope we will never have to cancel your holiday, this does very occ<strong>as</strong>ionally happen and we reserve the right to do so.Should it be necessary to cancel your holiday, we will endeavour to offer alternative travel arrangements of equivalent orsimilar standards, together with a price refund if appropriate. Alternatively we will provide a full and prompt refund.(D) FORCE MAJEURECompensation will not be payable in any c<strong>as</strong>es where an amendment, change or cancellation is due to ‘force majeure’, beingunusual or unforeseeable events or circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which neither we nor our supplierscould avoid. These include, but are not limited to, war, threat of war, riot, civil disturbance or strike, terrorist activity (actual orthreatened), industrial disputes, technical or maintenance problems with transport, machinery or equipment, power failure,natural or nuclear dis<strong>as</strong>ter, fire, flood, drought, adverse weather conditions, levels of water in rivers, acts of God, closure ofairports, changes of schedules or operational decisions of transport providers.(E) LOW BOOKINGSCompensation is not payable if a holiday or tour does not take place because a required minimum number of p<strong>as</strong>sengers toenable the holiday or tour to take place h<strong>as</strong> not been reached and you were informed of that requirement at the time of booking.8. PRICESAll prices advertised or quoted are per person b<strong>as</strong>ed on sharing a twin/double room and are in pounds sterling unlessotherwise shown and are subject to change, up or down, until the booking is concluded. After that, we will only incre<strong>as</strong>e theprice in limited circumstances to reflect incre<strong>as</strong>es in transportation costs (including fuel and airfares), dues, governmentapproved taxes (including VAT), both in the UK and overse<strong>as</strong>, fees chargeable for services (including landing taxes, embarkationand disembarkation, and security fees at airports), Government action or exchange rate variation. If the surcharge wouldincre<strong>as</strong>e the cost of your holiday by 10% or more, you may cancel your holiday and receive a full refund (except insurancepremiums). We will absorb, and you will not be charged for, any incre<strong>as</strong>e equivalent to up to 2% of the original price of yourholiday (excluding insurance premiums and amendment fees). No surcharges will be made within 30 days of departure. Pricesin this brochure were calculated on the exchange rate of £1 = US$1.50, £1 = A1.189. OUR RESPONSIBILITIES TO YOUWe take care to ensure that all involved in the preparation and supply of your holiday maintain the highest standards. Ple<strong>as</strong>eremember that the appropriate standards will be those prevalent in your destination, which may not be the same <strong>as</strong> developedinternational standards.(a) We will pay re<strong>as</strong>onable compensation (subject to (c) below) if the product supplied to you is not of the standard described orcontracted for by you. This compensation will be limited (except in the c<strong>as</strong>e of death or injury) to no more than twice theholiday price of the person affected.(b) Should failure in your holiday arrangements relating to you or any member of your party being killed, injured or becoming illduring or <strong>as</strong> a result of, carriage by aircraft, ship, train or coach <strong>as</strong> part of the holiday arrangements organised by us, ourliability to pay compensation is limited in accordance with the liability of the carrier/service under any international conventionwhich governs such services.(c) Our liability to you does not apply if you or any member of your group is at fault; if the failure is the fault of someone else notconnected with providing the services which form part of our holiday contract with you; the failure is due to any unusual orunexpected circumstances beyond our control, which we could not have avoided even if we had used all care possible, or thefailure is due to any event which we or the supplier of any service could not help, expect or prevent. This includes Force Majeure.(d) Any acceptance of liability is subject to you agreeing to <strong>as</strong>sign to us your rights against any third party responsible for theevents leading to your claim and to you affording us all necessary <strong>as</strong>sistance in pursuing that claim.10. COMPLAINTSIf you have any complaint or problem whilst on holiday you must inform us, our representatives or the supplier <strong>as</strong> soon <strong>as</strong>possible to give us the maximum opportunity to rectify it. Any unresolved complaints must be notified to us in writing within 30days of your return.11. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND OTHER ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTATIONIt is your responsibility to ensure that all necessary p<strong>as</strong>sports are machine readable. You should also ensure that all necessaryvis<strong>as</strong>, international driving licences, vaccinations and other health documents are in order. All p<strong>as</strong>sports must have a validity ofat le<strong>as</strong>t six months from your scheduled return date to the UK. You will generally need clear/clean pages for vis<strong>as</strong>, <strong>as</strong> required,to be inserted. You must read all documentation that is supplied to you and ensure that all information contained within iscorrect. Failure to do so may incur amendment charges which are your responsibility.Some countries and airlines now require additional p<strong>as</strong>senger information (API). We will inform you which countries requirethis. This information is compulsory and is required by authorities. It is essential that all clients provide the API prior totravelling. Failure to provide this information may result in you being denied boarding for your flight. No refund will be permittedand any additional costs will be borne by the named clients.12. TRAVEL INSURANCEYour holiday package with us does NOT include travel insurance and it is your responsibility to ensure you have adequateinsurance cover. In accordance with normal industry practice, we will require you to have adequate travel insurance to provideaccident and medical cover before your holiday departs. Such insurance should ideally be valid from the date of booking, be validthroughout the holiday duration and financially cover any probable loss through cancellation, amendment, accident or healthrelated problems. You should ensure you are covered for all activities you are planning on your trip. If you do not already have atravel insurance policy, you can visit our website to purch<strong>as</strong>e excellent value single-trip and annual policies provided by Travel &General Insurance Company plc. For any <strong>as</strong>sistance with insurance ple<strong>as</strong>e call the insurer’s helpline directly on 0845 408 0583.13. MEALSAll pre-booked meals will be on a table d’hôte b<strong>as</strong>is. Supplements can apply for à la carte items or restaurants.14. SPECIAL REQUESTSWhilst we will endeavour to comply with any special requests such <strong>as</strong> airline seating, diet and room requirements, we can onlydo so on a ‘goodwill’ b<strong>as</strong>is. As these are usually only provided at the discretion of the relevant supplier, we cannot guaranteeavailability and cannot be held responsible if they are not provided.15. EXCURSIONS AND ACTIVITIESWe are only responsible for excursions and activities sold by us and which form part of your holiday contract.16. JURISDICTIONThis contract is governed by English Law and is subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.17. DATA PROTECTION POLICYIn order for us to process your booking we need to store and record your information, including data <strong>as</strong> supplied. This mayinclude transfer of such information outside of the European Economic Area to parties involved in the arrangements of yourholiday. Equally, we use such information for updating our mailing lists and from time to time you may receive travel relatedinformation from us or from another company from within Western and Oriental Travel Limited. Should you not wish to receivesuch literature you must advise us in writing.Due to the requirement to apply for a group visa this may mean personal information such <strong>as</strong> p<strong>as</strong>sport details will be sharednot only with the processing authority in the country you are visiting, but may also be shared with other members of your partydue to how group vis<strong>as</strong> are issued overse<strong>as</strong>. If you feel this is likely to be an issue for you ple<strong>as</strong>e do let us know at the time ofbooking <strong>as</strong> it may not be possible to make alternative arrangements on Group Tours.18. UK FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE ON OVERSEAS TRAVELIt is now <strong>as</strong>sumed that British citizens are at risk of terrorism, be it in the UK or when travelling overse<strong>as</strong>. For your guidance wesuggest you visit the website of the Foreign Office on: ww.fco.gov.uk or tel: 0845 850 2829. The website is regularly updatedand provides you with country-specific information, including advice on terrorism and general matters on health and safety.19. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONIn addition to these general booking conditions, specific relevant destination information may be contained within the individualbrochures and websites.Registered in England Number: 75586694 Red Lion Court, Alexandra Road, Hounslow, TW3 1JS© Western and Oriental Travel LimitedAll rights reserved.Date of issue: December 2012147Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Country InformationCountry City Temperature Average High/Low °CJanuary April July October Time GMT Currency Visa Information for UKP<strong>as</strong>sport HoldersAlbania Tirana 12/2 18/8 31/17 23/11 +1 Lek N/AArmenia Yerevan -2/-9 19/6 34/17 21/7 +4 Armenian Dram N/AAustria Vienna 2/-2 16/6 24/15 15/7 +1 Euro N/AAzerbaijan Baku 06/2 16/9 31/22 19/13 +4 Manat REQUIRED through CIBTBelarus Minsk -3/-8 11/3 23/13 10/3 +2 Belarusian Rouble REQUIRED through CIBTBosnia Sarajevo 3/-4 15/5 26/13 16/6 +1 Dinar N/ABulgaria Sofia 2/-4 16/5 26/15 17/8 +2 Lev N/ACambodia Phnom Penh 31/21 35/24 32/25 30/24 +7 Riel REQUIRED on arrivalChina Beijing 1/-10 21/7 31/21 20/6 +8 Yuan REQUIRED through CIBTCroatia Zagreb 3/-4 14/5 26/14 15/7 +1 Kuna N/ACuba Havana 26/18 23/20 31/23 29/22 -5 Convertible Peso Tourist Card REQUIREDCzech Republic Prague 0/-5 11/3 23/13 12/6 +1 Koruna N/AEstonia Tallinn -4/-10 6/0 20/13 10/3 +2 Euro N/AGeorgia TbIlisi 7/-11 17/9 31/19 20/10 +4 Lari N/AHong Kong Hong Kong 18/13 24/19 31/26 27/23 +8 Hong Kong Dollar N/AHungary Budapest 2/-4 17/6 27/15 16/5 +1 Forint N/AKazakhstan Astana -12/-20 08/-2 28/13 08/-1 +5/6 Tenge REQUIRED through CIBTKosovo Prishtina 3/-5 16/5 27/12 18/5 +1 Euro N/AKyrgyzstan Bishkek 03/-9 10/0 31/18 17/5 +5 Som N/ALaos Vientiane 28/14 34/23 31/24 31/21 +7 Kip REQUIRED on arrivalLatvia Riga -4/-11 9/0 22/10 11/5 +2 Lat N/ALithuania Vilnius -5/-11 12/3 23/11 10/3 +2 Lit<strong>as</strong> N/AMacedonia Skopje 05/-3 20/4 32/14 19/6 +1 Macedonian Denar N/AMoldova Chisinau -01/-5 16/5 28/16 17/8 +2 Leu N/AMongolia Ulaanbaatar -19/-32 07/-12 22/10 6/-8 +8 Tugrik REQUIRED through CIBTMontenegro Podgorica 09/2 19/09 33/21 21/12 +1 Euro N/AMyanmar Yangon 32/18 36/24 30/24 30/24 +6:30 Kyat REQUIRED through CIBTNorth Korea Pyongyang -3/-13 16/3 29/20 18/6 +9 Won / Euros Included in all North Korean itinerariesPoland Krakow 0/-5 13/3 24/15 14/5 +1 Zloty N/ARomania Bucharest 2/-7 18/5 30/16 18/6 +2 Leu N/ARussia Moscow -7/-16 8/2 25/13 9/3 +2/+12 Rouble REQUIRED through CIBTSerbia Belgrade 3/-3 18/7 28/17 17/8 +1 Serbian Dinar N/ASlovakia Bratislava 2/-3 16/7 24/14 15/5 +1 Euro N/ASlovenia Ljubljana 2/-5 15/2 25/12 14/5 +1 Euro N/ASouth Korea Seoul 0/-9 17/5 29/21 19/7 +9 Won N/ATaiwan Taipei 19/12 25/17 32/23 27/19 +8 New Taiwan Dollar N/ATajikistan Dushanbe 8/-2 22/10 36/18 23/7 +8 Somoni REQUIRED through CIBTTurkey Istanbul 8/3 17/10 26/18 20/15 +2 Turkish Lira REQUIRED on arrivalUkraine Kyiv -4/-10 14/4 25/14 13/6 +2 Hryvnya N/AUzbekistan T<strong>as</strong>hkent 3/-6 18/8 33/18 18/5 +5 Som REQUIRED on arrivalVietnam Hanoi 20/13 28/20 33/26 29/22 +7 Dong REQUIRED through CIBT or on arrivalApplying for a VisaFor more information or to apply for a visa, contact CIBT by email at info@cibtvis<strong>as</strong>.co.uk or by calling 0207 963 3862, identifyingyourself <strong>as</strong> a <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> client to ensure that you are provided with the correct visa information and instructions.148Call 020 7666 1244 | www.regentholidays.co.uk | visit your local travel agent
Western and Oriental Travel LimitedThe COLLeCTiOnSpecialists in off-the-beaten-track destinations, <strong>Regent</strong> <strong>Holidays</strong> offer group tours, tailor-made itineraries and city breaks in countries <strong>as</strong>diverse <strong>as</strong> Russia, iceland, Burma, Korea and Ukraine.iceland & Greenlandtel: 020 7666 1290The Alternative Collectiontel: 020 7666 1244www.regentholidays.co.ukPioneers of responsible travel in Africa and Madag<strong>as</strong>car, our sister company Rainbow tours, h<strong>as</strong> been organising award-winning holidays tothis region since 1997, and now also offers a comprehensive and specialist programme of tailor-made and small group tours to Latin America.Latin Americatel: 020 7666 1260Africa & Madag<strong>as</strong>cartel: 020 7666 1250www.rainbowtours.co.ukOur sister company Western and Oriental is dedicated to providing exemplary luxury tailor-made holidays. Their wide range ofdestinations includes the stunning indian Ocean, exotic Far e<strong>as</strong>t, mystical india and the charming Mediterranean.BeACheS & ReTReATSCaribbean, Far e<strong>as</strong>t, indianOcean, Arabian Gulf & europeWORLdWide FAMiLy hOLidAySMediterranean, indian Ocean,Caribbean, Far e<strong>as</strong>t, Africa,north America, Latin America, indiaLUxURy indiAwith Sri Lanka,Bhutan & nepalAUThenTiC RAnCh hOLidAySCattle drives& Whitewater Raftingtel: 020 7666 1234tel: 020 7666 1230tel: 020 7666 1212tel: 0207 666 1217www.westernoriental.com
Colston Tower, Colston StreetBristol BS1 4XETelephone: 020 7666 1244Email: regent@regentholidays.co.ukwww.regentholidays.co.ukPart of Western and Oriental Travel LimitedABTA No.Y1152
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